SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 40-F
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REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
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ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13(a) OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014
Commission File Number: 1-15142
North
American Palladium Ltd.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
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Canada |
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1000 |
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Not Applicable |
(Province or other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization) |
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(Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number) |
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(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.) |
200 Bay Street
Royal Bank Plaza, South Tower
Suite 2350, Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5J 2J2
(416)
360-7590
(Address and telephone number of Registrants principal executive offices)
CT Corporation System
111 Eighth Avenue
New
York, NY 10011
(212) 894-8940
(Name, address (including zip code) and telephone number (including area code)
of agent for service in the United States)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
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Title of Each Class |
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Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered |
Common Shares, No Par Value |
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NYSE MKT LLC |
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
None
Securities for
which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act:
None
For annual reports, indicate by check mark the information filed
with this Form:
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x Annual information form |
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x Audited annual financial statements |
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuers classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period
covered by the annual report:
The Registrant had 386,514,777 Common Shares outstanding as at December 31, 2014
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange
Act 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
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Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and
posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted 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 and post such files).
Yes ¨
No ¨
CAUTIONARY NOTE TO UNITED STATES INVESTORS CONCERNING
ESTIMATES OF MEASURED, INDICATED AND INFERRED MINERAL RESOURCES
Unless otherwise indicated, all reserve and resource estimates included in this Annual Report on Form 40-F (this Annual Report)
have been prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum classification system. NI
43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators that establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects.
Canadian standards, including NI 43-101, differ significantly from the requirements of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission
(the SEC), and reserve and resource information included herein may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, this Annual Report uses the
terms measured resources, indicated resources and inferred resources. U.S. investors are advised that, while such terms are recognized and required by Canadian securities laws, the SEC does not recognize them. The
requirements of NI 43-101 for the identification of reserves are also not the same as those of the SEC, and reserves reported by the Registrant in compliance with NI 43-101 may not qualify as reserves under SEC standards.
Under U.S. standards, mineralization may not be classified as a reserve unless the determination has been made that the mineralization could be economically and legally produced or extracted at the time the reserve determination is made.
U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any part of a measured resource or indicated resource will ever be converted into a reserve. U.S. investors should also understand that inferred
resources have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of inferred resources exist, are economically or legally mineable or will
ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimated inferred resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies except in rare cases. In addition, disclosure of contained ounces in a
mineral resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations. However, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute reserves by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade, without
reference to unit measures. Accordingly, information concerning mineral deposits set forth in this Annual Report may not be comparable with information made public by companies that report in accordance with U.S. standards.
A. Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Disclosure controls and procedures are defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), as
those controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Registrant in reports filed or submitted by it under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time
periods specified in the SECs rules and forms. Rule 13a-15(e) also provides that disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the
Registrant is accumulated and communicated to the Registrants management as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
The Registrants Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the Registrants disclosure controls and
procedures, as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Exchange Act, as of December 31, 2014 and have determined that such disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2014. See Managements Discussion and
Analysis of Operations and Financial PositionInternal ControlsDisclosure Controls and Procedures included in Exhibit 1.2 to this Annual Report.
B. Managements Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The Registrants management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Rule 13a-15(f) under
the Exchange Act defines internal control over financial reporting as a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the Registrants principal executive and principal financial officers and effected by the Registrants
board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles and 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 the assets of the Registrant; (ii) provide
reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Registrant are being made only in
accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Registrant; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Registrants assets that
could have a material effect on the financial statements. The term Registrant as used herein is interchangeable with the term issuer as used in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis. Also, projections of
any evaluation of effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures
may deteriorate.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Registrants internal control over financial reporting as at December 31, 2014.
In making this assessment, the Registrants management used the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. This assessment included review
of the documentation of controls, evaluation of the design effectiveness of controls, testing of the operating effectiveness of controls and a conclusion on this assessment. Based on this assessment, the Registrants management has concluded
that the Registrants internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2014 and no material weaknesses were discovered. See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Operations and Financial
PositionInternal ControlsInternal Control over Financial Reporting included in Exhibit 1.2 to this Annual Report.
The Registrants auditor, the registered public accounting firm that audited the financial statements filed
as an exhibit to this Annual Report, has issued an attestation report on managements assessment of internal control over financial reporting as at December 31, 2014. The auditors attestation report on managements assessment of
the Registrants internal control over financial reporting is filed as Exhibit 1.4 to this Annual Report.
C. Attestation Report of the Registered
Public Accounting Firm
The attestation report of KPMG LLP on managements assessment of internal control over financial reporting as at
December 31, 2014 is filed as Exhibit 1.4 to this Annual Report.
D. Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
During the period covered by this Annual Report, there have been no changes in the Registrants internal control over financial reporting that have
materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrants internal control over financial reporting.
E. Notice of
Pension Fund Blackout Period
The Registrant was not required by Rule 104 of Regulation BTR to send any notice to any of its directors or executive
officers during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.
F. Audit Committee Financial Expert
The Registrants board of directors has determined that Mr. Gregory J. Van Staveren, an individual serving on the audit committee of the
Registrants board of directors, is an audit committee financial expert within the meaning of General Instruction B(8)(b) of Form 40-F under the Exchange Act and is independent within the meaning of Rule 10A-3 under the Exchange Act and
applicable Canadian requirements.
The SEC has indicated that the designation or identification of a person as an audit committee financial expert does
not make such person an expert for any purpose, impose any duties, obligations or liability on such person that are greater than those imposed on members of the audit committee and the board of directors who do not carry this designation
or identification, or affect the duties, obligations or liability of any other member of the audit committee or board of directors.
G. Code of Ethics
The Registrants board of directors has adopted a code of ethics that applies to all directors, officers and employees, including its Chief
Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and other senior officers. The Registrant will provide a copy of the code of ethics without charge to any person that requests a copy by contacting the Corporate Secretary of the Registrant at the address
that appears on the cover page of this Annual Report.
H. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
Audit Fees
The aggregate fees billed by
KPMG LLP, Chartered Accountants, the Registrants external auditors, for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 for audit services, including professional services that are normally provided by external auditors in connection
with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for such years were Cdn$688,000 and Cdn$508,500, respectively.
Audit-Related Fees
The aggregate fees billed by KPMG for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 for assurance and related services rendered by it that are
reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Registrants financial statements and that are not reported above as audit fees were Cdn$70,000 and Cdn$49,000, respectively. In 2014 and 2013, these fees were paid for
services rendered in connection with French translation services for various documents including the quarterly financial statements and Managements Discussion and Analysis of Operations and Financial Position.
Tax Fees
The aggregate fees billed by
KPMG for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 for professional services rendered by it for tax compliance, tax advice, tax planning and other services were Cdn$35,000 and Cdn$73,600, respectively. Tax services included preparation
of corporate tax returns and review of tax provisions. In 2014, such fees were paid for the preparation of federal/provincial tax returns and other tax compliance and tax advisory services. In 2013, such fees were paid for the preparation of
federal/provincial tax returns and other tax compliance and tax advisory services.
All Other Fees
The aggregate fees billed by KPMG for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 other than for the services reported in the preceding three
paragraphs, were Cdn$nil, and Cdn$nil, respectively.
Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
All audit and non-audit services performed by the Registrants external auditor must be pre-approved by the audit committee of the Registrant.
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, all audit and non-audit services performed by KPMG LLP were pre-approved by the audit committee of the
Registrant.
I. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
The
Registrant is not a party to any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on its financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses, results of operations, liquidity,
capital expenditures or capital resources that is material to investors.
J. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations
See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Operations and Financial PositionFinancial Condition, Cash Flows, Liquidity and Capital
ResourcesContractual Obligations, included in Exhibit 1.2 to this Annual Report.
K. Identification of the Audit Committee
The Registrant has established a separately-designated standing audit committee in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act. The audit
committee is comprised of Messrs. Gregory J. Van Staveren (Chairman), Mr. Alfred L. Hills and Mr. John W. Jentz. Messrs. Van Staveren, Hills, and Jentz are independent as such term is defined under the rules and regulations of
the NYSE MKT LLC.
L. Critical Accounting Policies
See Managements Discussion and Analysis of Operations and Financial PositionCritical Accounting Policies and Estimates, included in
Exhibit 1.2 to this Annual Report.
M. Interactive Data File
The Registrant is not currently required to submit to the Commission, nor post to its corporate website, an Interactive Data File.
N. Mine Safety
The Registrant is not currently required
to disclose the information required by Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
UNDERTAKING AND CONSENT TO SERVICE OF PROCESS
The Registrant undertakes to make available, in person or by telephone, representatives to
respond to inquiries made by the SEC staff, and to furnish promptly, when requested to do so by the SEC staff, information relating to the securities in relation to which the obligation to file an annual report on Form 40-F arises or transactions in
said securities.
B. |
Consent to Service of Process |
The Registrant has previously filed with the SEC a Form F-X in connection
with its common shares. Any change to the name or address of the agent for service of process shall be communicated promptly to the SEC by an amendment to the Form F-X.
EXHIBITS
The following
exhibits are filed as part of this Annual Report:
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Number |
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Document |
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1.1 |
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Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2014 |
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1.2 |
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Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 |
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1.3 |
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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2014, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, including the report
of the auditors thereon |
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1.4 |
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on the Registrants Audited Consolidated Financial Statements and on internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 |
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23.1 |
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Consent of KPMG LLP |
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23.2 |
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Consent of Dave Peck, P.Geo. |
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23.3 |
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Consent of Denis Decharte, P.Eng. |
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23.4 |
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Consent of Dave Penna, P.Geo. |
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23.5 |
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Consent of Chris Roney, P.Geo. |
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23.6 |
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Consent of Brian Young, P.Eng. |
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23.7 |
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Consent of Robert Duinker, P.Eng. |
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23.8 |
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Consent of Babak Houdeh, P.Eng. |
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31.1 |
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Certification of the CEO and CFO pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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32.1 |
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Certification of the CEO and CFO pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Exchange Act, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 40-F
and has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereto duly authorized.
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NORTH AMERICAN PALLADIUM LTD. |
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Dated: March 31, 2015 |
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By: |
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/s/ Phil du Toit |
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Name: |
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Phil du Toit |
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Title: |
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Chief Executive Officer |
EXHIBIT INDEX
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Number |
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Document |
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1.1 |
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Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2014 |
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1.2 |
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Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 |
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1.3 |
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Audited Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2014, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, including the report
of the auditors thereon |
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1.4 |
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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on the Registrants Audited Consolidated Financial Statements and on internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014 |
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23.1 |
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Consent of KPMG LLP |
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23.2 |
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Consent of Dave Peck, P.Geo. |
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23.3 |
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Consent of Denis Decharte, P.Eng. |
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23.4 |
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Consent of Dave Penna, P.Geo. |
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23.5 |
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Consent of Chris Roney, P.Geo. |
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23.6 |
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Consent of Brian Young, P.Eng. |
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23.7 |
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Consent of Robert Duinker, P.Eng. |
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23.8 |
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Consent of Babak Houdeh, P.Eng. |
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31.1 |
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Certification of the CEO and CFO pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
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32.1 |
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Certification of the CEO and CFO pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 |
Exhibit 1.1
NORTH AMERICAN PALLADIUM LTD.
ANNUAL INFORMATION FORM
For the year ended December 31, 2014
Dated as of March 31, 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS |
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1 |
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REPORTING CURRENCY, FINANCIAL AND RESERVE INFORMATION |
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2 |
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CORPORATE STRUCTURE |
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3 |
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DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS AND GENERAL DEVELOPMENTS |
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4 |
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Three Year History |
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Business Overview |
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10 |
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General Description of Palladium |
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11 |
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Palladium Supply and Demand Fundamentals |
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11 |
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The Lac des Iles Property |
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13 |
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Other Mineral Properties in Ontario |
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34 |
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ENVIRONMENT |
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39 |
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DIVIDENDS |
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40 |
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CAPITAL STRUCTURE |
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40 |
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MARKET FOR SECURITIES |
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43 |
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PRIOR SALES |
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45 |
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DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS |
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45 |
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LEGAL PROCEEDINGS |
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51 |
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INTERESTS OF MANAGEMENT AND OTHERS IN MATERIAL TRANSACTIONS |
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52 |
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TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR |
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52 |
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MATERIAL CONTRACTS |
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52 |
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INTERESTS OF EXPERTS |
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53 |
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RISK FACTORS |
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53 |
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AUDIT COMMITTEE INFORMATION |
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66 |
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION |
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67 |
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MANDATE OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE |
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69 |
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IMPERIAL-METRIC CONVERSION TABLE |
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74 |
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS |
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74 |
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FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This Annual Information Form (AIF) contains forward-looking statements and/or forward-looking
information, including future-oriented financial information, within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Canadian securities laws. All statements other
than statements of historical fact are forward looking statements. The words expect, believe, forecast, anticipate, target, plan, may, will,
intend, estimate, and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, although these words may not be present in all forward-looking statements.
Forward-looking statements included in this AIF include, without limitation: information as to the Companys strategy, plans or future
financial or operating performance, such as North American Palladium Ltd. and its subsidiaries (NAP or the Company) expansion plans at the Lac des Iles mine (LDI Mine), information pertaining
to 2015 operating and financial information, development opportunities, project timelines, production plans or schedules, projected capital expenditures and closure cost estimates, extensions to mine life, sources of ore, liquidity, cost estimates,
mining or milling methods, expected recoveries, statements with respect to exploration potential or projected exploration results, assumptions regarding metal prices and foreign exchange rates, reserve and resource estimates and other statements
that express managements expectations or estimates of future performance.
Forward-looking statements, including future-oriented
financial information, are necessarily based on a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. The
factors and assumptions contained in this AIF, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to, the following:
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that additional financing for the Companys expansion plans will be available, including on reasonable terms; |
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that the LDI Mine will be and will remain viable operationally and economically; |
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that mill feed head grade, recovery rates and mill performance will be as expected at the LDI Mine; |
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that plans for mine production, mine development projects, mill production and exploration will proceed as expected and on budget; |
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that the Company will pursue future development projects; |
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that market fundamentals will result in reasonable demand and prices for palladium and by-product metals in the future; |
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that the Company will not be subject to any environmental disasters, significant regulatory changes or material labour disruptions; |
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that the Companys interpretations of the ore body are accurate; |
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that the information and advice the Company has received from its employees, consultants and advisors relating to matters such as mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates, engineering, mine planning, metallurgy,
permitting and environmental matters is reliable and correct and, in particular, that the models used to calculate mineral reserves and mineral resources are appropriate and accurate; and |
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that the Company and its contractors will be able to attract and retain sufficient qualified employees. |
1
The Company cautions the reader that such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown
risks that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks include, but are not limited to: the possibility that commodity prices and foreign exchange rates may
fluctuate; the risk that the Company may not be able to obtain financing necessary to continue its expansion plans; the risk that the Company may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service its indebtedness and may be forced to take other
actions; the ability of the Company to comply with the terms of its loan agreements and convertible debentures; inherent risks associated with mining and processing including environmental hazards and risks to tailings capacity; the risk that
permits and regulatory approvals necessary to conduct operations will not be available on a timely basis, on reasonable terms or at all; employment disruptions, including in connection with collective agreements between the Company and unions;
uncertainty related to First Nations rights; the possibility that general economic conditions may deteriorate; the inability to meet production level and cost estimates; concentrate marketing and transportation risk; inaccuracy of mineral resource
and reserve estimates; decreases in the market price of palladium or other metals may render the mining of reserves uneconomic; the demand for, and cost of, exploration, development and construction services; the risks related to future exploration
programs, including the risk that future exploration will not replace mineral reserves and mineral resources that become depleted; the uncertainty as to the Companys ability to achieve or maintain projected production levels at the LDI Mine;
the potential uncertainty related to title to the Companys mineral properties; environmental and other regulatory requirements; the costs of complying with environmental legislation and government regulations; loss of key personnel;
competition from other producers of platinum group metals (PGMs) and from potential new producers; risks involved in current or future litigation (including class actions) or regulatory proceedings; the development of new
technology or new alloys that could reduce the demand for palladium; risks related to the Companys hedging strategies; lack of infrastructure necessary to develop the Companys projects; the ability of the Company to maintain adequate
internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures.
All of the forward looking statements made in this AIF
are qualified by these cautionary statements and other cautionary statements or factors contained herein, and there can be no assurance that the projected results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will
have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. The forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. All forward looking statements in this AIF are made as at December 31, 2014, unless otherwise indicated, and
the Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise, except as expressly required by law. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these
forward-looking statements.
REPORTING CURRENCY, FINANCIAL AND RESERVE INFORMATION
The information in this AIF is presented as at December 31, 2014 unless otherwise indicated.
Unless otherwise indicated, all dollar amounts referred to herein are in Canadian dollars (CAD). References to
US are to U.S. dollars.
Unless otherwise indicated, all financial information included herein has been prepared in
accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IFRS).
2
Unless otherwise indicated, all reserve and resource estimates included in this annual
information form have been prepared in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101) and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum
classification system. NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators that establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects.
Canadian standards, including NI 43-101, differ significantly from the requirements of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission
(the SEC), and reserve and resource information included herein may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, this document uses the
terms measured resources, indicated resources and inferred resources. Investors are advised that, while such terms are recognized and required by Canadian securities laws, the SEC does not recognize them. The
requirements of NI 43-101 for identification of reserves are also not the same as those of the SEC, and reserves reported by the Company in compliance with NI 43-101 may not qualify as reserves under SEC standards. Under U.S.
standards, mineralization may not be classified as a reserve unless the determination has been made that the mineralization could be economically and legally produced or extracted at the time the reserve determination is made. U.S.
investors are cautioned not to assume that any part of a measured resource or indicated resource will ever be converted into a reserve. U.S. investors should also understand that inferred resources
have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to their economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any parts of inferred resources exist, are economically or legally mineable or will ever be
upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimated inferred resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies except in rare cases. In addition, disclosure of contained ounces in a mineral
resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations. However, the SEC normally only permits issuers to report mineralization that does not constitute reserves by SEC standards as in place tonnage and grade, without reference to
unit measures. Accordingly, information concerning mineral deposits set forth in this AIF may not be comparable with information made public by companies that report in accordance with U.S. standards.
CORPORATE STRUCTURE
The
Company is the successor to Madeleine Mines Ltd., a company incorporated under the Mining Companies Act (Quebec) by letters patent in 1968. The Company completed its initial public offering in 1968 and has been listed with the Toronto Stock
Exchange (the TSX) since December 19, 1968. In January 1992, Madeleine Mines Ltd. was amalgamated with 2945-2521 Quebec Inc. and the amalgamated company was wound up into the federally incorporated parent company, 2750538
Canada Inc. (2750538). 2750538 changed its name to Madeleine Mines Ltd. and, in June 1993, the name was changed to North American Palladium Ltd. The Company continues to exist under the Canada Business Corporations Act
(CBCA). The Company has two wholly-owned subsidiaries: Lac des Iles Mines Ltd. (LDI) and 8616868 Canada Ltd. (8616868). On March 22, 2013, the Company sold its Quebec-based gold division,
NAP Quebec Mines Ltd., which included the Vezza mine, the Sleeping Giant mine and mill complex and its nearby portfolio of exploration properties to Maudore Minerals Ltd.
In 1991, LDI was incorporated under the CBCA as a subsidiary of Madeleine Mines Ltd. to hold a 50% interest in the Lac des Iles palladium
property located approximately 90 kilometres northwest of the City of Thunder Bay in the province of Ontario. In 1994, LDI acquired the remaining 50% interest in the Lac des Iles property from Sheridan Platinum Group Ltd. to become the sole owner of
the property.
3
8616868 was incorporated under the CBCA on August 26, 2013. The Company, through 8616868,
plans to carry out mineral exploration in Ontario and Quebec.
The Companys head and registered office is located at 200 Bay Street,
Suite 2350, Royal Bank Plaza, South Tower, Toronto, Ontario, M5J 2J2, Canada, Telephone: (416) 360-7590, Facsimile: (416) 360-7709.
The following chart describes the Companys subsidiaries, operating properties, and projects as at March 30, 2015. The percentage
ownership is indicated for each entity.
DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS AND GENERAL DEVELOPMENTS
Three Year History
2012
On January 17, 2012, the Company announced its intention to cease mining operations at the Sleeping Giant mine and that it
would restructure the gold division, resulting in a non-cash impairment charge on the Companys gold assets of approximately $50 million, which was reflected in fourth quarter 2011 financial results.
On January 30, 2012, the Company provided an update on the third and final tranche of drill results from its 2011 exploration program at
the LDI Mine. Mineralization was discovered 300 metres to the west of the Offset, Cowboy and Outlaw zones and surface mineralization was encountered from trenches along the North VT Rim (northeast of the Lac des Iles open pit).
On February 24, 2012, the Company announced the appointment of Dr. David C. Peck as Head of Exploration of the Company,
effective March 1, 2012.
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On April 30, 2012, the Company announced the completion of a bought deal flow-through
financing of 11,300,000 flow-through shares for total gross proceeds of $35,030,000.
On May 2, 2012, the Company entered into an
agreement with Vale Canada Limited (Vale) for the smelting and refining of concentrate from the LDI Mine at the Vale Copper Cliff Nickel Smelter.
On May 3, 2012, the Company entered into an option and purchase agreement with Houston Lake Mining Inc. whereby the Company obtained an
option to purchase a 100% interest in the Tib Lake property located northwest of the LDI Mine, subject to a 2.5% net smelter return (NSR) royalty in favour of a third party on a portion of the claims and a 2.5% NSR royalty in
favour of Houston Lake Mining Inc. for the rest of the claims.
On July 9, 2012, after receiving necessary final production permits,
the Company announced that it would delay commercial production at the Vezza project and begin exploring divestiture opportunities for its gold assets.
On July 10, 2012, the Company announced a bought deal financing of $43,000,000 principal amount of 6.15% convertible unsecured
subordinated debentures with a maturity date of September 30, 2017. The offering was completed on July 31, 2012.
On
July 16, 2012, the Company provided an update on its 2012 exploration program at the LDI Mine, including drill results from Offset Zone infill drilling, and confirmation that the area known as the Sheriff Zone located east of the Offset Zone
extends to the surface.
On August 8, 2012, the Company released an updated mineral reserve and mineral resource estimate for the LDI
Mine.
On September 13, 2012, the Company announced that its Chairman André Douchane would be appointed Interim Chief
Executive Officer, replacing William Biggar who would be retiring effective September 30, 2012. The Company also announced that it commenced an executive search for a new permanent Chief Executive Officer.
On September 26, 2012, the Company entered into a purchase agreement with Platinex Inc. whereby the Company purchased a 100% interest in
four unpatented mining claims near the Tib Lake property, subject to a 0.5% NSR royalty in favour of Platinex Inc.
On October 15,
2012, the Company provided a development update on its LDI Mine expansion, disclosing that the operation of the shaft was expected to be delayed until the third quarter of 2013 and all other development was progressing on schedule.
On November 30, 2012, the Company announced the completion of a bought deal flow-through financing of 2,425,000 flow-through shares of
the Company on a private placement basis for total proceeds of $4,001,250.
On December 11, 2012, the Company provided an update on
its exploration activities at the LDI Mine including infill and extension drilling targeting the Offset Zone, and other greenfields properties in Ontario.
5
On December 13, 2012, the Company announced the resignation of Jeffrey Swinoga, Vice
President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer of the Company, effective January 4, 2013.
On December 19, 2012, Tess Lofsky was
appointed Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary.
2013
On January 14, 2013, the Company provided a development update on its LDI Mine expansion. The Company disclosed that it had made
significant progress advancing the critical aspects of the expansion including completion of the major construction components on surface, while shaft sinking was progressing well, in line with the Companys scheduled rates of advancement.
On January 22, 2013, Dave Langille was appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Company.
On January 31, 2013, the Company provided an update on its drill results from the second half of its 2012 underground and surface
exploration programs at the Lac des Iles property. Definition drilling resulted in broad zones of lower grade palladium mineralization, containing local higher-grade intervals which enhanced the Sheriff Zone near-surface resource potential.
On February 13, 2013, the Company announced the filing of a final base shelf prospectus allowing the Company to make offerings of Common
Shares (including flow-through shares), debt securities, warrants and subscription receipts in an aggregate principal amount of up to US$300 million during the 25-month period that the shelf prospectus remains effective.
On February 19, 2013, the Company filed a new NI 43-101 report titled Technical Report Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario, Incorporating
Prefeasibility Study Offset Zone Phase 1 prepared by Tetra Tech WEI Inc. (Tetra Tech) for the LDI Mine (the 2013 LDI Report), which included an initial mineral reserve estimate and prefeasibility study for
Phase I of the Offset Zone. For the purposes of the 2013 LDI Report, the mineral reserves effective as at March 31, 2012 included the Phase I portion of the Offset Zone above the 990-metre mine level (4,490 metres elevation), which qualified
due to density of drilling. The diluted mineable mineral reserves contained within the stope wireframe at a 2.5 grams per tonne (g/t) palladium cut-off grade were estimated to be 7,741,000 tonnes at a grade of 4.30 g/t palladium.
On February 21, 2013, the Company announced that at December 31, 2012, it had concluded that the recoverable amount of the gold
division was lower than the carrying value. As a result, the Company recognized an impairment charge of $56.0 million on the gold division assets for the year ended December 31, 2012.
On March 4, 2013, the Company announced the appointment of Mr. Robert Quinn to the position of Chairman and that
Mr. André Douchane would continue to perform Chief Executive Officer responsibilities.
On March 15, 2013, the Company
announced that its board of directors (the Board) had adopted an advance notice by-law (the By-Law) to provide shareholders, directors and management of the Company with a clear framework for nominating
directors for election to the Board and timely information in connection with such nominations. The shareholders of the Company confirmed and
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ratified the By-Law at the annual and special meeting of shareholders held on May 9, 2013. The full text of the By-Law can be found under NAPs SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.
On March 21, 2013, the Company announced the appointment of Mr. Phil du Toit as President and Chief Executive Officer effective
March 25, 2013.
On March 22, 2013, the Company sold its Quebec-based gold division, NAP Quebec Mines Ltd., which included the
Vezza mine, the Sleeping Giant mine and mill complex and its nearby portfolio of exploration properties to Maudore Minerals Ltd.
On
May 6, 2013, the Company announced the resignation of Mr. Greg Struble as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer effective May 15, 2013.
On June 7, 2013, the Company entered into a subscription agreement in respect of a fully subscribed private placement of flow-through
shares (the Flow-Through Shares) for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately $20 million. The Company issued the Flow-Through Shares in two tranches. The first tranche closed on June 19, 2013 and the second tranche closed
on July 23, 2013.
On June 7, 2013, the Company extended its US$60 million operating line of credit (the Credit
Facility) by an additional year to July 4, 2014.
On June 7, 2013, the Company announced the completion of a US$130
million term loan financing (the Brookfield Debt) with Brookfield Capital Partners Ltd. (Brookfield) which bears interest at 15% per annum and is due June 7, 2017. The Brookfield Debt was amended on
November 29, 2013, resulting in an additional advance of US$21.4 million in cash to support the Companys working capital needs and continue funding operating and capital expenditures at the LDI Mine. The cash received consisted of an
additional US$15 million of term loan and a refund of US$6.4 million of cash interest previously paid to Brookfield, which was added to the existing facility. Pursuant to the amendment, the Companys interest rate increased by 4% to 19%. The
Brookfield Debt is secured by first priority security over the Companys and LDIs assets other than the accounts receivable and inventory.
On September 4, 2013, the Company announced the appointment of Mr. James E. Gallagher to the position of Chief Operating
Officer effective October 1, 2013.
On September 5, 2013, the Company provided an update on its drill results from the first
half of its 2013 underground and surface exploration program at the LDI Mine and announced that it had completed estimates for some near-surface mineral resources on the North VT Rim and the Sheriff Zone of the LDI property.
On October 21, 2013, the Company announced that it had begun hoisting material through the new shaft at the LDI Mine and that the
production, service and auxiliary hoists were fully operational and the skipping system had been successfully tested with full loads of material. The Company also announced that it planned to defer Phase II of the shaft expansion at depth.
On November 14, 2013, the Company announced that the Phase I expansion, which entailed sinking a shaft to approximately 825 metres below
surface and setting up the required infrastructure to
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mine and transport the underground Offset Zone ore, was essentially completed and operations were transitioning from ramp to shaft haulage with both ore and waste being hoisted through the shaft.
On December 23, 2013, the Company provided an update on its drill results from the second half of its 2013 underground and surface
exploration program at the LDI Mine. Surface mineralization was discovered on the upper Roby Zone northeast extension.
2014
On January 31, 2014 and February 10, 2014, the Company closed the first tranche of a public offering of up to $75 million principal
amount (in two tranches) of 7.5% convertible unsecured subordinated debentures and associated warrants for aggregate gross proceeds of $32 million. The warrants were subject to disinterested shareholder approval. On March 28, 2014, the Company
held a special meeting of shareholders pursuant to which disinterested shareholders: (i) approved the exercise of the warrants associated with the $32 million first tranche offering of convertible debentures; (ii) approved the second
tranche offering of up to $43 million of convertible debentures and associated warrants; and (iii) approved an alternative offering in the event that the second tranche offering is delayed or abandoned.
On February 12, 2014, the Company reported on the progress of its production ramp-up from the lower Offset Zone utilizing the new shaft
infrastructure. Payable palladium production in January was approximately 15% above internal forecasts and the Company had started to benefit from ongoing mill improvements.
On March 21, 2014, the Company provided an update on its mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates and life of mine plan for the LDI
Mine, as well as an update on 2014 operations and production. Total reserves were estimated to be 15.0 million tonnes at a grade of 2.8 g/t palladium. Palladium production and operating costs in January and February were ahead of guidance.
On March 31, 2014, the Company filed a new NI 43-101 report titled Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario, Incorporating
Prefeasibility Study of Life of Mine Plan prepared by Tetra Tech (the 2014 LDI Report). The report included an update on the previously announced mineral reserve and resource estimates and life of mine plan for the LDI Mine.
On April 11, 2014 and April 17, 2014, the Company closed the second tranche of the public offering of 7.5% convertible
unsecured subordinated debentures and associated warrants for aggregate gross proceeds of $35 million. The total proceeds from the first and second tranche was $67 million.
On May 1, 2014, the Company entered into a proposed settlement in respect of the previously disclosed potential class action lawsuit
pending in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. Under the terms of the settlement, the Companys insurance paid $2.4 million for the benefit of the settlement class. There was no admission of any wrongdoing by the Company or its officers and
directors. The settlement was approved by the Court on September 16, 2014.
On June 23, 2014, the Company held its Annual
General and Special Meeting of Shareholders. Two new directors were elected to the board of directors, John W. Jentz and Alfred L. Hills. The shareholders also approved the continuation of the shareholder rights plan (the Rights
Plan). The full text of the Rights Plan can be found under NAPs SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com.
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On July 7, 2014, the Company announced that it had paid US$23.4 million to its senior
secured term loan lender representing US$16.2 million of accrued interest and US$7.2 million of the associated pre-payment fee. Effective June 30, 2014, the Company reverted to a 15% annual interest rate on the senior secured term loan.
Additionally, the Company extended its US$60 million Credit Facility by an additional year to July 3, 2015.
On July 30, 2014
the Company announced the highlights of its second quarter 2014 drilling program for the Upper Southeast, Upper North, Lower Central and Lower North Offset Zone targets. Limited drilling on the Lower Central Offset Zone confirmed that the zone
extends to at least 1,150 meters depth.
On October 16, 2014 the Company announced third quarter drilling results from the
exploration program. Highlights included encouraging results from the ongoing extension and conversion drilling program targeting the Lower, North and Upper parts of the Offset Zone. In addition, surface drilling completed in the third quarter
outlined a new zone (the Powerline Zone) of high-grade mineralization exposed at surface, adjacent to the Roby Zone open pit.
On December 11, 2014 the Company provided an update for selected operating results for the months of October and November and year to
date from the ongoing successful ramp-up of its operations. The Company announced that the trial full time mill run initiated at the start of the fourth quarter was performing well.
2015 Year to Date
On
January 12, 2015, the Company announced the filing of a final base shelf prospectus allowing the Company to make offerings of Common Shares (including flow-through shares), debt securities, warrants and subscription receipts in an aggregate
principal amount of up to US$150 million during the 25-month period that the shelf prospectus remains effective.
On February 10,
2015, the Company provided an update on fourth quarter drilling results from the 2014 exploration program. Multiple intersections of palladium mineralization over significant core lengths were reported from both the Lower Offset Zone and the
outcropping Powerline Zone.
On February 25, 2015, the Company provided an update on its mineral reserve and mineral resource
estimates for the LDI Mine. The update included increases to reserves to reflect depletion from mining activities in 2014 and conversion of RGO stockpile resources to reserves, as well as increases to resources to reflect additional resources in the
Offset Zone and Roby Zone open pit, as well as newly delineated resources near surface.
On March 27, 2015, the Company filed a new
NI 43-101 report titled NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario, Incorporating a Preliminary Economic Assessment of the Mine Expansion Plan prepared by Qualified Persons employed by the Company, Hatch Ltd.
and independent consultants (the PEA). The report includes an evaluation of an open pit expansion and an evaluation of a potential shaft extension (Phase 2 Expansion). The PEA concludes that opportunities exist
for an open pit expansion project, and recommends further drilling and technical investigation to ensure the best business case for the Phase 2 Expansion. The PEA is at a scoping level and is preliminary in nature. The Phase 2 Expansion includes
inferred mineral resources that are considered too
9
speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves.
The Company has not yet prepared its interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the quarter ended March 31, 2015. In advance
of the end of the quarter ended March 31, 2015, the Company has become aware of potential violations of certain financial covenants under the Credit Facility and the Brookfield Debt which may occur as of the March 31, 2015 compliance date,
subject to the finalization of the Companys covenant calculations as at that date. The Company has obtained waivers providing temporary relief with respect to compliance with these covenants and anticipates obtaining amendments with
respect to compliance with these covenants; however there is no assurance that such amendments will be obtained. The consequences of an event of default are described below in Risk Factors The Company may not be able to generate sufficient
cash to service all of its indebtedness and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy its obligations under its indebtedness; and The Credit Facility, the 2012 Debentures, the Series 1 and Series 2 Debentures and the
Brookfield Debt provide for events of default, some of which may be beyond the Companys control. The Companys ability to continue as a going concern is dependent on the Companys ability to comply with the existing covenants or
obtain the necessary waivers or amendments to the covenants, or if required, obtain necessary refinancing. In addition, the certainty of the Companys ability to meet debt covenant requirements in the future is dependent upon several factors
including, but not limited to, operational performance, market conditions and commodity prices.
Business Overview
The following contains forward-looking statements and future-oriented financial information about the Companys business. Reference
should be made to Forward-Looking Statements on page 1. For a description of material factors that could cause the Companys actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in the following, please see
Risk Factors beginning on page 53.
North American Palladium Ltd. is an established precious metals producer that has been
operating its flagship LDI Mine in Ontario, Canada since 1993. The Companys vision is to become a low cost mid-tier precious metals producer operating in mining friendly jurisdictions. LDI is one of two primary palladium
(Pd) producers in the world, offering investors exposure to the price of palladium.
The Lac des Iles property
(including the LDI Mine and mill complex) is the Companys only material property. The primary underground deposits on the property are the Offset and Roby zones. The Company completed Phase 1 of the underground mine expansion in 2013,
including the construction of a mining shaft.
In 2014, the Company successfully transitioned from ramp access to shaft access. Operations
were focused on the ramp up of underground mining using the new shaft and completion of upgrades to the ore handling system to access new and deeper mining areas of the Offset Zone. The Company also conducted an exploration program in 2014 that
primarily targeted the lower portion of the Offset Zone.
For the 2014 fiscal year, the Companys revenue totalled $220.1 million.
The Companys revenue by commodity totalled $159.4 million for palladium, $19.6 million for platinum, $16.6 million for gold, $14.2 million for nickel, $10.2 million for copper and $0.1 million for other metals, representing approximately
72.4%, 8.9%, 7.5%, 6.5%, 4.6% and 0.05% respectively of its total consolidated revenue.
As of December 31, 2014, the Company had 447
employees. Of this number, 413 employees worked at the Lac des Iles property, 15 out of an exploration office in Thunder Bay, 8 at the Companys finance and administration office in Thunder Bay and 11 at the Companys corporate head office
in Toronto.
The PEA evaluates the economic potential of an open pit expansion and a potential Phase 2 mine expansion. The PEA concludes
that opportunities exist for an open pit expansion project that, when combined with the current mine plan, extends the life of mine to 2029. The Company plans to continue to drill at depth and optimize engineering in support of a potential Phase 2
expansion.
There remains significant exploration upside at the LDI Mine, which is complemented by the LDI Mines established
infrastructure. Management will focus on advancing work to potentially extend the life of mine and is actively engaged in significant exploration programs aimed at increasing its mineral reserves and mineral resources.
Outside of the LDI Mine property, the Companys regional platinum group elements (PGE) greenfields properties cover
approximately 47,714 hectares (117,904 acres), including several of the
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most prospective mafic complexes in the area. The Company remains committed to maintaining a portfolio of exploration-stage projects at and near the LDI Mine property. The Company also owns other
advanced projects including 50% ownership of the Shebandowan West project.
General Description of Palladium
Palladium is one of the six platinum group metals. The other PGMs are platinum, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium and osmium. Platinum group metals
are rare precious metals with unique physical characteristics that are used in diverse industrial applications and in jewellery. The unique characteristics of PGMs include: (1) strong catalytic properties; (2) excellent conductivity and
ductility; (3) a high level of resistance to corrosion; (4) strength and durability; and (5) a high melting point.
Demand
for palladium is diversified by geography and end market. Palladium is primarily used in the manufacture of catalytic converters in the automotive industry, in the manufacture of jewellery and electronics, and in dental and chemical applications. As
a precious metal, there is also investment demand for palladium in the form of doré bars, generally held as physical inventory by exchange traded funds (ETFs) and institutional investors.
Palladium is typically produced as a by-product metal from either platinum mines in the Republic of South Africa (approximately 37% of world
mine production) or Norilsk Nickels mines in Russia (approximately 40% of world mine production). North America contributes approximately 14% to the worlds supply of palladium.
The Company produces concentrate at the Lac des Iles mill and may sell the concentrate directly to smelters for processing, into the spot
market, or may sell refined palladium directly to end users. In each instance the price for palladium is expected to be determined with reference to prevailing spot market prices.
Palladium Supply and Demand Fundamentals
Mine
Supply
There are very few palladium producing regions worldwide and few known economically viable ore bodies. Russia and South
Africa, which are known to be higher-risk jurisdictions, account for almost 80% of global mine palladium production, which was estimated to be approximately 4.9 million ounces in 2013. Growth in palladium mine supply is constrained, due to
political, infrastructure cost and labour issues in South Africa; declining palladium production in Russia; and a limited number of new projects on the horizon in the near term.
In particular, South African production is challenged by deeper mines, power and water limitations, higher operating costs, geopolitical
risks, shortage of skilled labour, and labour disruptions. There do not appear to be any near-term solutions in place and as a result, growth in the South African PGM mining industry has been decreasing.
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Secondary Supply
Secondary supply is derived from recycling (which is estimated to have contributed approximately 1.6 million ounces in 2013) and from a
Russian government stockpile. The stockpile is believed to have contributed about 1 million ounces per year to the market in the past decade, and was consequently considered to be a major overhang on the palladium price. It is estimated by
industry experts that the Russian stockpile contribution in 2013 was approximately 200,000 ounces. Accordingly, this stockpile is now believed to be essentially depleted, and no longer a significant contributor to secondary supply.
Fabrication Demand
The primary
source of fabrication demand is from the automotive sector, which consumes approximately 67% of world palladium production for the manufacture of catalytic converters. Palladium is used in a cars exhaust system to help reduce harmful emissions
into the environment by converting them into less harmful carbon dioxide, nitrogen and water vapour. Palladium, platinum and rhodium are the primary components in catalytic converters.
Growth in the automotive sector is strongly correlated with growth in the global economy. Since the financial crisis of 2008, global
production of vehicles and demand for palladium have been increasing every year. Another factor that has contributed to increasing palladium demand in the automotive sector is the continued substitution of platinum for palladium in diesel
applications. These factors have contributed to strong sales growth in North America, China and Europe.
Other sources of fabrication
demand include: 12% from electronics, 5% from dental, 5% from chemical, and 5% from jewellery. In the electronics industry, demand for palladium has been rising in recent years. This increase is largely attributable to an increase in demand for
palladium bearing semiconductors that are used in many electronic devices, including smart phones, tablets, notebooks, and other home electronics. In the dental industry, palladium is widely used in alloys for dental restoration. Palladium is also
used in the manufacture of jewellery and may be used either on its own or as an alloy in white gold. Additionally, palladium is used in crude oil refining catalysts, chemical process catalysts and various chemical applications, including the
manufacture of paints, adhesives, fibres and coatings.
Investment Demand
An important macroeconomic trend has been the increase in demand for palladium for investment purposes. Strong investor sentiment for precious
metals has provided support for a favourable palladium pricing environment. Increased participation by a greater variety of market participants, the resulting improvement in liquidity and the introduction of new investment vehicles are all improving
investment demand for palladium.
Like gold, platinum and silver, palladium is increasingly viewed as an attractive precious metal that
can help diversify investment portfolios. Together, the ETFs are believed to hold over 2 million ounces, and they are physically backed by palladium bars.
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Price Outlook
The palladium market is forecasted by industry experts to remain in a substantial supply deficit resulting in strong prices. Strong fabrication
demand will be the dominant factor. As well, there are continued uncertainties on the supply side due to operational challenges in South Africa, possible sanctions by the West against Russia for geopolitical events, and the belief that the Russian
palladium stockpile is essentially depleted.
In 2014, the average price of palladium was US$803 per ounce, ranging from a low of US$702
per ounce, to a high of US$911 per ounce. As of March 30, 2015, the price of palladium was US$735 per ounce.
The Lac
des Iles Property
For a description of the meaning of certain technical terms used in this AIF, please see the Glossary of
Terms beginning on page 74.
The Companys only material property is the Lac des Iles property. The property is located
approximately 90 kilometres northwest of the City of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada. The property consists of an open pit, an underground mine accessible by ramp or by shaft, and a mill with a nominal capacity of approximately 15,000 tonnes per day.
The primary deposits on the property are the Roby Zone and the Offset Zone; both disseminated magmatic nickel-copper-PGM deposits. The Company has also identified other mineralized areas on the property, including the North VT Rim, Sheriff Zone,
Powerline Zone, Baker Zone, and Moore Zone. The Cowboy and Outlaw Zones now form part of the area known as the Offset Footwall Zone.
The
Company began mining the Roby Zone open pit in 1993 and in April of 2006, the Company also began commercial production underground by mining the higher grade portion of the Roby Zone. On October 29, 2008, the LDI Mine was placed on temporary
care and maintenance due to declining metal prices during the global financial crisis.
On December 8, 2009, following improvements
in palladium prices, the Company announced its intention to restart underground operations in the Roby Zone, and on April 14, 2010, the Company announced that it had resumed production from the Roby Zone.
In late 2010, the Company commenced the expansion of its LDI Mine in order to access the Offset Zone. The purpose of the expansion was to
transition operations from mining via ramp access to mining via shaft while utilizing a high volume bulk mining method. As part of the expansion, the Company installed a shaft to a depth of approximately 825 metres below surface and extended the
ramp from the Roby Zone to the Offset Zone.
Underground mining is currently occurring mainly in the Offset Zone between the 825 meter
level and the 765 meter level, with some mining occurring between the 735 meter level and the 600 meter level. The chosen mining method is longhole open stoping with unconsolidated rock fill. This method takes into consideration a growing orebody,
the future mining of potential expansion targets, and updated information pertaining to geotechnical effects on the Offset Zones rock mass. Crown and rib pillars are utilized to allow for the use of unconsolidated fill material and have been
partially removed from the mining plan reflecting approximately a 50% future recovery.
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The LDI Mine is currently operating with approximately 1.6 million tonnes of ore expected to
come from underground mining and approximately 1 million tonnes of ore expected to come from surface processing, providing an overall mill feed of 2.6 million tonnes in 2015. Production from the shaft commenced in 2013, however some larger
material still comes via truck haulage up the main ramp.
The following is an up-to-date description of the LDI property that has been
summarized from the PEA filed on March 27, 2015, which is available for review on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and is subject to, and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the PEA. The authors of the PEA are Qualified
Persons under NI 43-101. The effective dates for the mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates for the LDI property are January 1, 2015 and February 2, 2015 respectively.
Property Description and Location
The
LDI property is located at latitude 49°10 north, longitude 89°37 west, 90 kilometres northwest of the City of Thunder Bay in northwestern Ontario (Figure 1). The LDI property comprises approximately 8,623 hectares (21,307 acres)
of mineral claims and leases. LDI, holds a 100% interest in six mining leases, comprising 3,513 hectares (8,680 acres). Contiguous with these leases are 54 mineral claims (consisting of 331 claim units) held 100% by LDI and covering 5,110 hectares
(12,627 acres).
Figure 1: LDI property location map
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On August 31, 1994, LDI, Sheridan Platinum Group Ltd. (SPG) and John
Patrick Sheridan (Sheridan) entered into a royalty agreement pursuant to which SPG and Sheridan transferred certain LDI property claims and leases to LDI in exchange for a NSR royalty. Pursuant to the royalty agreement, NAP is
required to pay SPG and Sheridan 5% of the NSR royalty at LDI Mine until the expiration of the LDI property leases or any renewal thereof.
The LDI property is underlain by mafic to ultramafic rocks of the Lac des Iles Intrusive Complex in the Wabigoon Subprovince of the Canadian
Shield. The Intrusive Complex is an irregularly-shaped Neoarchean-age mafic-ultramafic intrusive body having maximum dimensions of approximately 9 kilometres in the north-south direction and approximately 4 kilometres in the east-west direction. The
complex incorporates three discrete intrusive bodies: (i) the North Lac des Iles Intrusion (NLDI) characterized by a series of relatively flat-lying and nested ultramafic bodies with subordinate mafic rocks; (ii) the
Mine Block Intrusion (MBI), described in detail below is host to all of the stated Lac des Iles mineral reserves and resources; and (iii) the South Lac des Iles Intrusion (SLDI), a predominantly mafic
(gabbroic) intrusion having many similarities to the MBI in terms of rock types and textures.
To date, NAPs exploration activities
have been focused on the MBI with lesser, intermittent activity on both the NLDI and the SLDI. The MBI is a small, teardrop-shaped mafic complex with maximum dimensions of 3 kilometres by 1.5 kilometres and having an elongation in an east-northeast
direction. The MBI consists of gabbroic (noritic) rocks and metamorphosed and/or hydrothermally altered equivalents with highly variable plagioclase-pyroxene proportions, textures, and structures. The MBI was emplaced into predominantly intermediate
orthogneiss basement rocks. The MBI is dissected by a series of brittle to ductile faults and shear zones, some of which appear to control the distribution of higher-grade palladium mineralization. A major north-trending shear zone appears to have
cut the western end of the MBI and is spatially associated with the development of high-grade palladium mineralization.
In the
Companys mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates, the resources contained in the Roby and Offset Zone deposits have been separated into discrete Hangingwall and Footwall Zones (See Figure 2 below). The Roby Zone deposit extends to a
minimum depth of 650 metres below surface. It includes a thick Footwall Zone in the west (tens to hundreds of metres wide) and a thinner, approximately 5 to 20 metre thick Hangingwall Zone in the east. The Offset Zone deposit shows similar grade
distributions to the Roby Zone. The former is believed to represent the along strike continuation of the Roby Zone deposit but having been displaced from the latter along the east-striking and north-dipping Offset Fault. The Offset Zone deposit
remains open toward surface, to the southeast and at depth (greater than 1,500 metres below surface). The Offset Zone is host to a majority of the higher grade palladium resources on the LDI property and is the focus for current underground mine
production, development and exploration drilling.
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Figure 2: Type Geological Section through the Offset Zone Deposit (looking North through
the central portion of the deposit)
The following are the mineralized zones on the LDI property:
Roby Zone
|
|
Main Roby Zone: The main part of the Roby Zone is a palladium-enriched disseminated sulphide deposit with a strike length of approximately
1,000 metres and a maximum width of approximately 800 metres. The Roby Zone deposit extends to a minimum depth of 650 metres below surface. The deposit includes a thick Footwall Zone in the west (tens to hundreds of metres wide) and a thinner,
approximately 5 to 20 metre thick Hangingwall Zone in the east. Underground mining of the Roby Zone commenced in 2006 and has been confined to the higher-grade part of the deposit, the
|
16
|
Hangingwall Zone. By the end of 2012, most of the underground reserves in the Roby Hangingwall Zone had been mined out. However, most of the lower-grade footwall mineralization beneath the
current floor of the Roby open pit is undeveloped. |
|
|
Roby Zone Northeast Extension: Historical and recent exploration and infill drilling on the northern end of the Roby Zone has shown that the Roby Hangingwall Zone extends, at least intermittently, along an
apparent curvilinear trend toward the northeast and possibly connects to the western end of the North VT Rim Zone. Additional infill and extension drilling will be required to assess whether economic grade-width palladium mineralization is developed
along the Roby Northeast Extension. |
|
|
Roby Zone Southeast Extension: An internal review of results obtained from historical drilling on the southern Roby Zone confirmed that the Hangingwall Zone extends beyond the southern limit of the historical
resource shell until it reaches the Offset fault where it is abruptly terminated. As observed in the Northeast Extension, high-grade palladium mineralization tends to become narrower and more erratically distributed moving beyond the historical
limits to the Hangingwall Zone resource shell. Nonetheless, the Roby Zone Southeast Extension remains a potential longer-term development opportunity that will be assessed through future engineering studies and economic analyses. |
Offset Zone
|
|
Offset Zone: The Offset Zone is believed to represent the along strike continuation of the Roby Zone, having been displaced from the latter along the east-striking Offset fault. The magnitude of the displacement
is estimated to be approximately 200 metres in the east-west direction and approximately 50-100 metres vertically. The Offset Zone was previously divided into three grade- and geology-based subzones: the High Grade Subzone, the Mid Subzone, and the
Footwall Subzone. However, recent resource modeling completed in 2013 and 2014 indicates that from both a mining and geological perspective, the Footwall Subzone and Mid Subzone together with the former Cowboy and Outlaw Zones are more appropriately
considered as a single unit of lower-grade mineralization displaying significant local grade variability, herein defined as the Offset Footwall Zone. |
|
|
Offset Hangingwall Zone: Hangingwall Zone mineralization is a broadly stratabound unit of higher-grade palladium mineralization developed along a north-striking and steeply (east) dipping contact between the
equigranular gabbro (EGAB) in the east and the varitextured gabbro (VGAB) hosted Footwall Zone in the west. Its width varies from 4 to 30 metres, with an average of 15 metres. Approximately 2% of the Offset
Hangingwall Zone is occupied by late dikes (dilution) and approximately 1% is occupied by shears and faults. The southern part of the Hangingwall Zone appears to gradually disappear over a distance of 50 to 100 metres along strike and immediately to
the south of the new shaft. Underground mining of the Offset Hangingwall Zone commenced in 2013 in the upper part of the currently defined reserves and resources. |
|
|
Offset Footwall Zone: The lower-grade Offset Footwall Zone is equivalent to the Roby Footwall Zone. It is a north-striking mineralized package
having widths of several tens of metres with its western boundary, a gradational one, being defined by the western limit of a 1g/t palladium grade shell. It has a sharp contact with the Offset Hangingwall Zone on its eastern margin. The exact
western limit to the Offset Footwall Zone remains poorly constrained. Additional exploration drilling will be |
17
|
required to adequately define the position and form of the basement MBI contact and the full extent and quality of palladium mineralization on the footwall side of the Offset Zone deposit.
|
|
|
Upper Offset Southeast Extension Zone: Recent exploration drilling in 2013 and 2014 has shown that palladium mineralization having similar grades to the Offset Hangingwall Zone is locally present along a
postulated southeast extension branch or pantleg to the main Offset Zone deposit that was interpreted from a 3D model of the EGAB unit in 2013. Drilling completed in 2014 has defined an east-west striking, moderately dipping zone having
widths of 10 to 30 metres. |
North VT Rim
|
|
North VT Rim Zone: The North VT Rim Zone is a greater than 2 kilometre long, east-to-northeast-striking mineralized zone consisting of sheared and altered VGAB and heterolithic gabbro breccia
(HGABBX) and subordinate, boudinaged melanorite layers, mafic dikes, aplitic to pegmatitic granitic veins, and quartz veins. Palladium grades are extremely variable within the North VT Rim Zone and to date, no mineral reserves
have been declared. Exploration has largely been restricted to trenching and shallow drilling, particularly in the westernmost end of the North VT Rim Subzone where a small near-surface mineral resource was defined in 2013. |
|
|
Creek Subzone: Located approximately 2 kilometers northeast of the Roby Pit at the eastern end of the MBI, near the contact with the north Lac des Iles Intrusive Complex. No resource has been estimated for the
Creek Subzone but additional exploration and resource definition drilling is planned. |
Sheriff Zone
|
|
Sheriff Zone: The Sheriff Zone is a combination of the former Southeast Roby, Twilight and South Pit Zones connected through additional drilling and with some material recently moved into a NI 43-101 compliant
resource. Definition drilling has identified a large-tonnage, low-grade resource that appears to track along an apparent north-striking structure (not yet recognized from surface mapping). The Sheriff Zone has been subdivided into North and South
Subzones based on location relative to the Offset fault. The zone is generally poorly exposed. |
|
|
Powerline Zone: Recent surface exploration drilling in the Sheriff North zone has identified an area of atypically high-grade palladium mineralization located within 60 m of surface. This mineralization is
referred to as the Powerline Zone that occurs immediately south of the southern edge of the Twilight Zone pit. The Powerline Zone occurs in an area with abundant, narrow mafic and intermediate dykes. |
Baker Zone
|
|
Baker Zone: Located approximately 500 metres to the south of the North VT Rim Zone in the central part of the MBI. The zone consists of a thin (less than 3 metres) and relatively flat-lying unit of low-grade
PGE-copper-nickel mineralization. |
18
Moore Zone
|
|
Moore Zone: A low-grade, presently uneconomic mineralized zone, located approximately 500 metres south of the current Roby open pit with similar lithologies and textures to other MBI breccias. |
Figure 3: Geological map of the Lac des Iles MBI intrusion showing the location of the currently defined mineralized zones on the Lac
des Iles mine property.
19
Summary of Permits
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Approval |
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Reason for Approval |
|
Expiration Date |
PTTW 0020-97NJES, LDIM Lake |
|
Approved withdraw of 24,000 L/min or 35,000,000 L/d |
|
Expires May 23, 2020 |
PTTW-U/G #6467-96MN59 |
|
Approved withdraw of 18,180 L/min or 26,179,200 L/d |
|
Expires April 18, 2023 |
PTTW Open Pit #8583-8WPL3N |
|
Approved withdraw of 908 L/min 1,307,520 L/d |
|
Expires July 30, 2018 |
LDIM Closure Plan |
|
Approved the Project and is updated when changes to the mine site occur |
|
Does not expire |
Generator Registration Number |
|
Allows the disposal of subject wastes, as per Regulation 501/01 |
|
Must be renewed using Ministry of Environments Hazardous Waste Information Network website on an annual basis |
CofA Air 9997-6M4l3B |
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Air |
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Does not expire |
CofA Sewage 2018-7X4HML |
|
Industrial sewage works |
|
Does not expire. Being amended with MOE |
CofA Building 3-1404-98-006 |
|
Old administration building |
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Does not expire |
CofA Sewage 8678-4QGGY5 |
|
Assay laboratory and mill |
|
Does not expire |
CofA Waste Management A900369 |
|
Provisional approval waste management system |
|
Does not expire |
CofA Waste Disposal Site A770072 |
|
Provisional approval waste disposal site |
|
Does not expire |
The Company reports that it holds all necessary approvals and permits for its current operations at the mine.
The Company is responsible for all costs of closure and reclamation at the LDI Mine. The LDI Mine closure plan provides for approximately
$14.1 million of closure and restoration costs. This obligation of the Company is secured by a letter of credit in the amount of $14.1 million. LDI will be submitting a Closure Plan Amendment (CPA) this year for a tailings
management facility (the TMF) expansion. The mine closure obligation will be revised in connection with the CPA to reflect the Companys most current closure cost estimates, expected mine life and market rate assumptions.
Accessibility, Climate, Local Resources, Infrastructure and Physiology
The LDI property is located within the Superior Province of the Canadian Shield. The property is situated in a boreal forest region typified by
uplands forested mostly by black spruce, birch, poplar, and jack pine, as well as low-lying areas comprising lakes, streams, and bogs. The topography of the site is favourable for the placement of facilities, being generally of low relief.
Elevations on the LDI property range from 418 to 550 metres above sea level, excluding mining operations.
The LDI property is located
approximately 90 kilometres northwest of the City of Thunder Bay. Access to the site is provided by a year-round gravel access road (which is open to the public and maintained by the Company) that connects to Provincial Highway 527 at a point 16
kilometres east of
20
the mine. The nearest access to rail transport is at Thunder Bay approximately 90 kilometres to the south, or at Armstrong, Ontario, approximately 133 kilometres to the north. Air access is
available in Thunder Bay and Armstrong, Ontario. Thunder Bay also has an international airport which is serviced by several major airlines. Thunder Bay provides most of the services and mine and mill consumables required by NAPs LDI Mine, as
well as access to experienced staff and personnel with good mining and processing expertise.
The LDI property experiences hot summers and
cold winters, which are typical of the region. Maximum and minimum temperatures range from an extreme low of -30°C in the winter months to an extreme high of 38°C in the summer months. The average winter and summer temperatures are -13°C
and 15°C, respectively. The area is snow covered for 5.5 months of the year, with the annual snowfall averaging approximately 150 centimetres. Mean annual rainfall is approximately 45.4 centimetres. Mill operations are enclosed and are not
exposed to the weather other than feed inputs. Mining operations run continuously year-round, and while weather conditions are rarely severe enough to halt operations, it does impact safe traction on the access roads and ramps within the open pit.
The main facilities on the LDI property are: the operations camp; the main administration office; the tire shop; the mill complex; the
open pit shops; the warehouse and operational offices; the open pit and stockpile area; the underground portal; ventilation accesses; the shaft; and the TMF.
In 2006, a 324-person operations camp and recreational complex was built in conjunction with the construction of the new mill. The
construction camp, established in 2011 to accommodate added surface and underground construction workers during the peak construction period associated with readying the Offset Zone Phase I for production through the shaft facilities, has been
decommissioned.
Water and sewer services are supplied independently for each facility and are considered by the Company to be adequate
for current and projected needs. Expansion of potable water and sewer services were completed in 2011 for the underground workforce additions.
The Company intends on retaining its current practice of using natural elevation differences where possible, such that water is diverted away
from buildings and drains away in existing ditches to the lower lying areas, for storm water management. There is no requirement for additional storm water management to be put in place as a result of future underground mining; however, expansion
plans for the open pit will address the additional water that will enter the open pit/underground workings as a result of an increased catchment area due to the larger pit surface area.
Electrical power is supplied by Hydro One via a 115 kilovolt line to three main substations on-site. In December 2013, approval was received
for LDI Mine to increase supply power from 38 to 47 megawatts from the Hydro One power grid.
The LDI Mine has been operating a TMF since
1990. The TMF has three sections, the South TMF, the West TMF and the East TMF, which are located adjacent to one another, southwest of the open pit. Tailings from future mining will be disposed of in the South and East TMF. The West TMF was closed
upon reaching capacity and is undergoing progressive reclamation; however, LDI is currently evaluating alternate options for storage capacity which may include the West TMF. The tailings area is monitored according to industrial sewage works
requirements set out by the Ministry of Environment (Ontario).
21
History
Geological investigations in the area began with reconnaissance mapping in the early 1930s and, sparked by the discovery of aeromagnetic
anomalies in the late 1950s, began again in the late 1960s. Various exploration programs were undertaken over the next 25 years by a number of companies, including F.H. Jowsey Limited, Gunnex, Anaconda American Brass Limited, Boston Bay, and
Madeleine Mines.
The Company acquired the LDI property in 1992, and open pit production commenced in 1993. The Company began mining
underground in 2006, and until 2008 the Company operated a combined open pit and underground mine from the Roby Zone and a processing plant, producing a bulk nickel-copper-PGE concentrate with gold credits. In October of 2008, NAP announced that,
due to depressed metal prices, it was temporarily placing the LDI property on care and maintenance.
When palladium prices began to
recover in December 2009, NAP announced that it would restart operations exclusively from underground reserves. On April 14, 2010, NAP announced that the Roby underground mine was back in production, with a potential 2 to 3 year mine life.
In late 2010, the Company commenced its underground mine expansion to access the Offset Zone. The Offset Zone is believed to be the
fault-offset, down-plunge extension of the Roby Zone, a disseminated magmatic nickel-copper-PGE deposit. Mine expansion plans consisted of shaft sinking and extension of the ramp from the Roby Zone to the Offset Zone.
In 2011, the Company balanced underground development with production, the LDI Mine produced palladium from the blending of underground ore
with lower-grade surface stockpile sources. In 2012, the Roby Zone open pit was restarted and blended with underground production from the Roby Zone and Offset Zone. Mining of the first Offset Zone stope commenced in the fourth quarter of 2012.
In 2013, ore was primarily sourced from the Offset Zone, low-grade surface stockpiles and residual ore from the Roby Zone. Also, during Q4,
2013, the company began hoisting material through the new shaft and began transitioning from ramp to shaft haulage.
In 2014, LDI produced
174,195 oz. of palladium primarily sourced from the Offset Zone, low-grade surface stockpiles and residual ore from the Roby Zone.
Geological
Setting
The LDI property is underlain by mafic to ultramafic rocks of the Archean LDI Intrusive Complex. The complex is the best
documentation of a suite of Neoarchean mafic to ultramafic intrusive bodies occurring within a sub-circular area of approximately 35 kilometres by 40 kilometres in the Wabigoon Subprovince of the Canadian Shield. The intrusions are located
immediately to the north of the Quetico Subprovince and directly west of the Nipigon embayment of the Mid-continent Rift System. See Roby Zone and Offset Zone described above.
Mineralization
PGE mineralization
in the MBI is found in a variety of structural and geological settings but in general is characterized by the presence of small amounts (less than 1 to 3%) of fine- to medium-grained disseminated iron-copper-nickel sulphides within broadly
stratabound zones of PGE and gold
22
enrichment associated with VGAB rocks, coarse-grained noritic rocks and local, intensive zones of amphibolitization, chloritization and shearing. An important, distinguishing characteristic of
the MBI mineralization relative to other PGE deposits is the consistently high palladium: platinum ratio, commonly averaging 10:1 or more in most of the known zones. Although many ideas have been advanced to account for the high palladium: platinum
ratios, it remains equivocal what specific magmatic and/or postmagmatic processes have led to the extreme enrichment in palladium over platinum in the MBI. Sulphide mineralogy is dominated by pyrite with lesser pyrrhotite, chalcopyrite, pentlandite
and millerite. Much of the nickel in the published resources appears to be hosted by silicate minerals (chlorite, amphibole). If this is correct, then this may be why the LDI mill reports low nickel recoveries (generally less than 40%).
Nearly all of the known mineralized zones in the MBI occur in the marginal units of the intrusion. In recent years, a much clearer picture of
the relationship between previously interpreted disparate mineralized zones has emerged; based on over two decades of intensive exploration and development work on the LDI property. This picture can be summarized as follows:
|
|
The majority of the currently defined palladium-platinum-gold-copper-nickel mineral resources is restricted to the western end of the MBI and consists of a thicker but lower-grade Footwall Zone and a thinner, higher
grade Hangingwall Zone. |
|
|
The footwall portion of the Roby Zone has only been mined from the Roby open pit and is typically hosted by VGAB and HGABBX. This style of lower-grade palladium mineralization extends to the full strike and depth extent
of both the Offset Zone and Roby Zone deposits and is also the dominant style of mineralization in the Twilight Zone, Sheriff Zone, and Baker Zone. |
|
|
The higher-grade Hangingwall Zone in both the Roby and Offset Zone deposits is typically restricted to a schistose PYXT unit that is currently interpreted by NAP to represent an intensely hydrated and recrystallized
(magmatic fluid alteration and metasomatism) melanocratic norite with schistosity and alteration having been focused along a steeply east-dipping and generally north-striking shear zone. |
|
|
The Roby Zone and Offset Zone deposits were likely part of a single contiguous deposit that was subsequently pulled apart by predominantly dextral displacement along the east-northeast striking and north dipping Offset
fault. |
|
|
Satellite zones of palladium mineralization such as the Moore, Sheriff, and Baker Zones appear to represent localized development of similar styles of deformation, recrystallization, and textural and lithological
variability that characterize the footwall portions of both the Roby Zone and Offset Zone deposits. |
|
|
The North VT Rim Zone is currently interpreted to represent the along strike extension of the Roby Zone with palladium mineralization becoming
telescoped into a less than one- to several-metre thick mineralized VGAB containing discontinuous decimetre- to metre-thick bands of more melanocratic and variably recrystallized norite. Palladium grades in the North VT Rim Zone show much more
local-scale variability than is generally observed in the Roby Zone or Offset Zone deposits, including discontinuous bonanza grades of up to 63 g/t palladium over 1 metre. The mineralization in part follows and in part is cut by northeast-striking
ductile shear zones that are sub-parallel to the strike |
23
|
of the northern margin of the MBI. A distinctive feature of the North VT Rim Zone palladium mineralization is the absence of visible sulphides and very low copper and nickel abundances.
|
|
|
The primary controls on the localization of economic grade and width palladium mineralization on the LDI property are currently interpreted as a combination of two contemporaneous and high-temperature magmatic
processes: |
|
|
|
a volatile-enriched magmatic fluid focused high-grade palladium mineralization and subordinate platinum, gold, copper and nickel within actively deforming major structures (i.e., magma-fluid pathways). This led to the
development of the hangingwall portions of the Roby Zone and Offset Zone deposits that are hosted by schistose and filter-pressed melanocratic norite; and |
|
|
|
accumulations (rarely exceeding one weight percent) of moderately PGE enriched magmatic sulphides in feeder faults and within the texturally heterogeneous marginal units of the MBI (e.g., VGAB-hosted Footwall Zones of
the Roby and Offset deposits). |
|
|
The palladium:platinum ratio increases systematically with palladium grade suggesting preferential fixing of palladium relative to platinum in the known, mineralized zones and especially in the schistose hanging wall
portions of the Roby Zone and Offset Zone deposits. This is apparently a fairly unique, high temperature feature of the mineralizing processes at LDI relative to other, well-documented PGE (copper, nickel) deposits. |
|
|
Well-defined greenschist to amphibolite facies hydration reactions affected all of the mineralized units in the MBI and are believed to be responsible for local redistribution of precious and base metals, but only on
the grain-size scale to metre scale. These reactions do not appear to be the primary agents for development of high-grade palladium mineralization in the MBI. |
Exploration
The LDI property has
had more than 50 years of exploration by former explorers and LDI. The following sub-sections briefly describe the nature and extent of all relevant exploration work other than drilling.
Since 1998, LDIs Exploration Department, working in a 6 km by 6 km area surrounding the LDI mine, has collected 21,802 precisely located
surface samples. These were mainly analysed using commercial multi-element packages. All 21,802 samples have palladium, platinum and gold results. 16,436 samples also have copper and nickel results. These samples are concentrated on the MBI.
High-grade palladium samples (>4ppm palladium) occur in varitextured gabbro around the MBI along the North VT Rim and South VT Rim and centrally at the Baker Zone. Elevated palladium occurs south and southwest of the Roby Pit in noritic
intrusions that were mapped by Anaconda in the 1960s and by Texasgulf in the 1970s as containing pyrrhotite and chalcopyrite disseminations. Researching sources of old data and digitally reviewing it with what is now known provides
accelerated testing and implementation of new targeting ideas. In this case it is invaluable as mine tailings covers some of these outcrops requiring geological modelling, geophysical surveys and targeted drilling to fully advance these targets.
The LDI exploration team uses historic blasthole palladium geochemical data from the Roby Open pit to define and characterize
palladium-enriched geological units within the orebody. This
24
provides excellent location and analytical accuracy and precision that is commonly lost in ore deposit summaries. The Company is presently reviewing the blasthole data on 25 m levels to derive
patterns that can be applied to locating these nearer surface zones below the Offset Fault.
The team also uses magnetic properties as a
direct means to prioritize exploration targets in favourable geological and geochemical settings. This extends to subsurface exploration where in hole magnetic susceptibility data and downhole magnetic field strength, bearing and inclination survey
data can be used to vector to offhole magnetic anomalies. Airborne and ground geophysical surveys on the property include magnetometer, EM, IP, VLF and magnetotelluric surveys.
Periodic comparison of old and recent geophysical surveys with current geological models has resulted in refinements to structural geological
interpretations of faults including revised estimates of the magnitude and sense of the displacement. This directly assists targeting poorly documented areas below a fault by applying the estimated displacement from a known mineralized zone above
that fault.
Targeted surveying of fractures in the Roby Pit walls is being integrated into 3D geological models that characterize the
minor displacements to mineralized zones that we see in the Roby block model. Use of drill log descriptions of fracture zones and Rock Quality Designation measurements also help identify the major structures that regularly offset mineralization at
LDI. Combining geological, geophysical and geochemical results has resulted in the current exploration targets on the Mine Block property.
Drilling
Prior owners of the LDI Mine drilled 143 holes totalling 22,862 metres on the LDI property before 1986. The Company and its
predecessor and subsidiary companies have drilled 2,100 holes totalling 741,930 metres on the LDI property since 1986.
Exploration
drilling statistics for the calendar year ending December 31, 2014 include:
|
|
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66 holes and 36,309 metres on the Mine Block Intrusion; |
|
|
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39 holes and 33,415 metres on the Offset Zone including the Lower Offset Zone, the Upper Offset Zone and the Upper Offset southeast extension target; |
|
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26 holes and 2,688 metres on the Powerline Zone; and |
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1 hole and 207 meters on other surface targets. |
All underground and surface NQ core drilling
within the MBI from January to April 2013 was completed by Major Drilling Group International of Moncton, New Brunswick. All surface NQ drilling from June to October 2013 was completed by Orbit Garant Drilling Inc. of Val dOr, Quebec. All
drilling in 2014 was completed by Orbit Garant Drilling Inc.
Sampling and Analysis, and Security of Samples
All of the 2014 LDI program core samples were processed and secured in the Exploration Departments logging and core sawing facilities at
the LDI mine site. Selected drill core intervals were sawn in half using Vancon core saws. One half of the sample was submitted for analysis while the other half sample was returned to the corebox. After completion of sampling, all coreboxes were
palletized, band strapped and stored on the LDI site. The samples for analysis were packaged in rice bags with the
25
tops secured by zip ties. For the 2014 series drilling, NAP used ALS Minerals (ALS) which has preparation facilities in Thunder Bay, Ontario and analytical facilities in North
Vancouver, British Columbia. The North American ALS analytical laboratories are accredited by the Standards Council of Canada (SCC) for specific tests listed in their Scopes of Accreditation which conforms with CAN P 1579:
Requirements for the Accreditation of Mineral Analysis Testing Laboratories and CAN-P-4E ISO/IEC 17025: General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories.
Sample Preparation
Sample
preparation at ALS was as follows: all samples are submitted to ALS with barcode tags. ALS scans barcodes, weighs samples and logs-in samples to a laboratory information management system (LIMS). Received samples are compared to
submitted list on request for analysis. Samples are crushed to 90% passing -2mm. A riffle split of 500g is taken and then pulverized to >95% passing 106 microns. Analytical duplicates from pulps are taken within each analytical run at the end of
the batch. The minimum number of duplicates required is based on the rack size specific to the method. For PGM-ICP methods, a minimum of 3 duplicates are taken and for ICP-AES methods, a minimum of 1 duplicate is taken. For every 50 samples
prepared, an additional split is taken from the crushed material to create a pulverizing duplicate. This additional split is processed and analyzed in a similar manner to other samples in the submission.
Crusher jaws and work stations are cleaned before the first sample of every new work order with barren material and compressed air and cleaned
between each subsequent sample with compressed air. The grinding bowls are cleaned before the first sample of every new work order with silica and compressed air and between each subsequent sample with compressed air. A 100-150 gram split of each
pulp sample is packaged, and then shipped to the analytical facilities in North Vancouver via FedEx Express. Pulps and coarse rejects were retained at ALS Thunder Bay location. Once QA/QC checks have been completed the pulps and rejects are
then transported by Exploration department personnel back to LDI, where they are stored in shipping containers.
Sample Analyses
All 2014 drill core samples were analyzed by ALS using the PGM-ICP23 (Pd, Pt, Au) and ME ICP61 (Cu, Ni, Co, Mg, Ag) procedures. Where
necessary, over-limit procedures PGM ICP27 and ME-OG62 were used. Received results are imported into the database as ALS2014 lab package.
Check
Sample Analyses at ActLabs
An approximate 100g pulp split for requested samples is generated by ALS during the initial sample
preparation. Exploration department personnel retrieve the pulp splits from ALS, insert QC samples (blank and standard reference materials) at a rate of 3 per batch of 34 samples and then deliver to Activation Laboratories
(ActLabs) in Thunder Bay for analysis. ActLabs is accredited to international quality standards through the International Organization for Standardization /International Electrotechnical Commission (ISO/IEC) 17025 (ISO/IEC 17025
includes ISO 9001 and ISO 9002 specifications) with CAN-P-1578 (Forensics), CAN P-1579 (Mineral Analysis) and CAN-P-1585 (Environmental) for specific registered tests by the SCC.
26
Data Verification
The NAP exploration department has data verification procedures for all diamond drill programs. These procedures include but are not limited to
verification of coordinate data, survey data, assay data, duplicate assay sampling, check assay sampling and data management. In 2014, primary assays were obtained from ALS and check sample assays were obtained from Actlabs. Both labs are accredited
to international quality standards and are ISO certified.
NAP continues to keep to rigorous validation standards for its drill hole assay
data. The assay data used for resource estimation is considered to be valid and acceptable for use for this purpose. Information for the validation of historical assay data used in this most recent resource estimation is available in previously
filed technical reports.
Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource Estimates
Table 1 summarizes the reserves and resources on the LDI property. The mineral resources set out below are exclusive of the mineral reserves.
Table 1: The effective dates for the reserve estimate and resource estimate are January 1, 2015 and
February 2, 2015, respectively.
NEAR SURFACE RESERVES
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Category/Source |
|
Pd Cut-Off (g/t) |
|
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Tonnes (000s) |
|
|
Pd (g/t) |
|
|
Pt (g/t) |
|
|
Au (g/t) |
|
|
Ni (%) |
|
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Cu (%) |
|
|
Pd Contained (000s oz) |
|
Proven |
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|
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|
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Low-Grade (RGO) stockpile |
|
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0.95 |
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11,199 |
|
|
|
0.97 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
349 |
|
Roby Zone Open Pit |
|
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1.09 |
|
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|
716 |
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1.31 |
|
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0.16 |
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0.13 |
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0.07 |
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0.06 |
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30 |
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Total Proven |
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11,915 |
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|
0.99 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
379 |
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Probable |
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|
|
|
|
|
Roby Zone Open Pit |
|
|
1.09 |
|
|
|
293 |
|
|
|
1.39 |
|
|
|
0.18 |
|
|
|
0.15 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
13 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Reserve |
|
|
|
|
|
|
12,208 |
|
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
392 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
NEAR SURFACE RESOURCES
(exclusive of reserves)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Category/Source |
|
Pd Cut-Off (g/t) |
|
|
Tonnes (000s) |
|
|
Pd (g/t) |
|
|
Pt (g/t) |
|
|
Au (g/t) |
|
|
Ni (%) |
|
|
Cu (%) |
|
|
Pd Contained (000s oz) |
|
Measured |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Roby Zone Pit Expansion |
|
|
0.60 |
|
|
|
20,108 |
|
|
|
1.23 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
795 |
|
Powerline Zone |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
251 |
|
|
|
3.04 |
|
|
|
0.22 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.04 |
|
|
|
25 |
|
Sheriff Zone |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
4,858 |
|
|
|
1.45 |
|
|
|
0.15 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
227 |
|
North VT Rim |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
437 |
|
|
|
2.03 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
0.01 |
|
|
|
29 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Measured |
|
|
|
|
|
|
25,654 |
|
|
|
1.30 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
1,076 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Indicated |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Roby Zone Pit Expansion |
|
|
0.60 |
|
|
|
9,634 |
|
|
|
1.20 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
372 |
|
Powerline Zone |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
65 |
|
|
|
2.48 |
|
|
|
0.20 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
0.04 |
|
|
|
5 |
|
Sheriff Zone |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
220 |
|
|
|
1.29 |
|
|
|
0.16 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
9 |
|
North VT Rim |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
14 |
|
|
|
1.75 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
0.01 |
|
|
|
1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Indicated |
|
|
|
|
|
|
9,932 |
|
|
|
1.21 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
387 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Measured + Indicated |
|
|
|
|
|
|
35,586 |
|
|
|
1.28 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
1,463 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inferred |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Powerline Zone |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
51 |
|
|
|
3.10 |
|
|
|
0.28 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
|
|
Sheriff Zone |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
479 |
|
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
0.21 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Inferred |
|
|
1.00 |
|
|
|
530 |
|
|
|
1.66 |
|
|
|
0.21 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
27
UNDERGROUND RESERVES - HANGINGWALL ZONES
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Category/Source |
|
Pd Cut-Off (g/t) |
|
|
Tonnes (000s) |
|
|
Pd (g/t) |
|
|
Pt (g/t) |
|
|
Au (g/t) |
|
|
Ni (%) |
|
|
Cu (%) |
|
|
Pd Contained (000s oz) |
|
Proven |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset Hangingwall Zone |
|
|
2.60 |
|
|
|
3,660 |
|
|
|
3.95 |
|
|
|
0.28 |
|
|
|
0.28 |
|
|
|
0.11 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
465 |
|
Roby Hangingwall Zone |
|
|
2.40 |
|
|
|
684 |
|
|
|
3.38 |
|
|
|
0.23 |
|
|
|
0.20 |
|
|
|
0.04 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
74 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Proven |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4,344 |
|
|
|
3.86 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
539 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Probable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset Hangingwall Zone |
|
|
2.60 |
|
|
|
3,564 |
|
|
|
3.82 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
438 |
|
Roby Hangingwall Zone |
|
|
2.40 |
|
|
|
251 |
|
|
|
3.17 |
|
|
|
0.22 |
|
|
|
0.18 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
0.04 |
|
|
|
26 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Probable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,815 |
|
|
|
3.78 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.26 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
464 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Reserve |
|
|
|
|
|
|
8,159 |
|
|
|
3.82 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
1,003 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
UNDERGROUND RESOURCES - HANGINGWALL ZONES
(exclusive of reserves)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Category/Source |
|
Pd Cut-Off (g/t) |
|
|
Tonnes (000s) |
|
|
Pd (g/t) |
|
|
Pt (g/t) |
|
|
Au (g/t) |
|
|
Ni (%) |
|
|
Cu (%) |
|
|
Pd Contained (000s oz) |
|
Measured |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset Hangingwall Zone |
|
|
2.50 |
|
|
|
2,683 |
|
|
|
4.36 |
|
|
|
0.31 |
|
|
|
0.29 |
|
|
|
0.11 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
376 |
|
Indicated |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset Hangingwall Zone |
|
|
2.50 |
|
|
|
4,952 |
|
|
|
4.36 |
|
|
|
0.31 |
|
|
|
0.30 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
694 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Measured + Indicated |
|
|
2.50 |
|
|
|
7,635 |
|
|
|
4.36 |
|
|
|
0.31 |
|
|
|
0.30 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
1,070 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inferred |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset Hangingwall Zone |
|
|
2.50 |
|
|
|
4,581 |
|
|
|
3.90 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.25 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
|
|
Upper Offset Southeast Extension |
|
|
TBD |
|
|
|
827 |
|
|
|
3.20 |
|
|
|
0.28 |
|
|
|
0.24 |
|
|
|
0.09 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Inferred |
|
|
|
|
|
|
5,408 |
|
|
|
3.80 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
0.25 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
UNDERGROUND RESOURCES - FOOTWALL ZONES
(exclusive of reserves)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Category/Source |
|
Pd Cut-Off (g/t) |
|
|
Tonnes (000s) |
|
|
Pd (g/t) |
|
|
Pt (g/t) |
|
|
Au (g/t) |
|
|
Ni (%) |
|
|
Cu (%) |
|
|
Pd Contained (000s oz) |
|
Measured |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset Footwall Zone |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
10,584 |
|
|
|
2.22 |
|
|
|
0.23 |
|
|
|
0.16 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
755 |
|
Roby Footwall Zone |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
4,159 |
|
|
|
2.43 |
|
|
|
0.21 |
|
|
|
0.18 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
325 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Measured |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
14,743 |
|
|
|
2.28 |
|
|
|
0.22 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
1,080 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Indicated |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset Footwall Zone |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
11,163 |
|
|
|
2.10 |
|
|
|
0.21 |
|
|
|
0.15 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
754 |
|
Roby Footwall Zone |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
2,341 |
|
|
|
2.34 |
|
|
|
0.20 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
176 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Indicated |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
13,504 |
|
|
|
2.14 |
|
|
|
0.21 |
|
|
|
0.16 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
930 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Measured + Indicated |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
28,247 |
|
|
|
2.21 |
|
|
|
0.21 |
|
|
|
0.16 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
2,010 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inferred |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset Footwall Zone |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
8,853 |
|
|
|
2.05 |
|
|
|
0.16 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
|
|
Roby Footwall Zone |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
248 |
|
|
|
2.43 |
|
|
|
0.18 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Inferred |
|
|
1.50 |
|
|
|
9,101 |
|
|
|
2.06 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.12 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
COMBINED RESERVES AND RESOURCES - ALL SOURCES
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Category/Source |
|
Pd Cut-Off |
|
Tonnes (000s) |
|
|
Pd (g/t) |
|
|
Pt (g/t) |
|
|
Au (g/t) |
|
|
Ni (%) |
|
|
Cu (%) |
|
|
Pd Contained (000s oz) |
|
Sub-Category |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Proven + Probable Reserves |
|
|
|
|
20,367 |
|
|
|
2.13 |
|
|
|
0.18 |
|
|
|
0.16 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.05 |
|
|
|
1,395 |
|
Total Measured + Indicated Resources |
|
|
|
|
71,468 |
|
|
|
1.98 |
|
|
|
0.20 |
|
|
|
0.14 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
0.06 |
|
|
|
4,543 |
|
Total Inferred Resources |
|
|
|
|
15,039 |
|
|
|
2.67 |
|
|
|
0.20 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.08 |
|
|
|
0.07 |
|
|
|
|
|
28
Notes for Table 1
1. |
All reserve and resource estimates were prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum classification system. US investors should refer to Reporting Currency,
Financial and Reserve Information on page 2 for an overview on how Canadian Standards differ significantly from US requirements. |
2. |
Resources listed in Table 1 are exclusive of reserves. Resources and reserves reflect depletion from mining activities to December 31, 2014. |
3. |
The estimation of mineral reserves and mineral resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues. |
4. |
The mineral reserves were estimated from geological block models provided by Denis Decharte P.Eng. and from RGO stockpile resource information provided by Dave Penna, P. Geo., employees of North American Palladium and
qualified persons (QPs) under NI 43-101. |
5. |
Palladium ounces are stated as contained ounces. Disclosure of contained ounces is permitted under Canadian regulations; however, the SEC generally permits resources to be reported only as in place tonnage and grade.
|
6. |
Tonnages are rounded to nearest 000 tonnes. Pd, Pt and Au grades are rounded to nearest .01 g/t. Ni and Cu grades are rounded to nearest .01%. Rounded numbers were used to calculate contained Pd (oz) and average
resource and reserve tonnages. |
7. |
The mineral reserves are based on the estimates, metal price assumptions, and exchange rates provided in the 2014 LDI Report (US$700/oz palladium, US$1,453/oz platinum, US$1,320/oz gold, US$6.47/lb nickel, and
US$3.26/lb copper. A CAD$/US$ exchange rate of CAD$1.00 = US$0.95 was also applied). The reserves have been updated to account for mining depletion that occurred in 2014 as well as conversion of RGO stockpile resources to reserves. Mining depletion
estimates were prepared by David N. Penna, P.Geo. and QP. |
8. |
Reserves are estimated to the 1065 Mine Level (4,435 metre elevation), a maximum depth of 1,072.5 metres. The effective date of the Lac des Iles Mine resource models that were used in the estimation of the current
reserves for the Offset and Roby Zones is December 31, 2013, as prepared by Denis Decharte P.Eng. and QP. |
9. |
The mineral resource for the Offset Hangingwall and Footwall Zones was estimated as of December 31, 2014 by Denis Decharte P.Eng. and QP. The mineral resource calculation uses a minimum 2.5 g/t palladium resource
block cut-off for the Hangingwall Zone and a minimum 1.5 g/t palladium resource block cut-off for the Footwall Zone. The mineral resource estimate is based on the combination of geological modeling, geostatistics and conventional block modelling (5m
by 5m by 5m blocks). 1m composite intervals were used with a grade capping at 30 g/t for palladium and 3 g/t for gold. Grade capping was determined not to be necessary for others metals. The Offset Zone resource models used the ordinary kriging
(OK) grade interpolation method within a 3D block model with mineralized zones defined by wireframe solids. The mineral resource is exclusive of mineral reserve and mined-out material as of December 31, 2014.
|
10. |
The mineral resource for the Upper Offset Southeast Extension Zone was estimated as of December 31, 2014 by Denis Decharte P.Eng. and QP. The mineral resource calculation was constrained by a 2.0 g/t Pd grade shell
and with no Pd cutoff grade applied. The mineral resource estimate is based on the combination of geological modeling, geostatistics and conventional block modelling (5m by 5m by 5m blocks). 1m composite intervals were used. Grade capping was
determined not to be necessary. The Upper Offset Southeast Extension Zone resource model used the inverse distance squared (ID 2) grade interpolation method within a 3DI block model. The mineral resource is exclusive of mineral reserve and mined-out
material as of December 31, 2014. |
11. |
The mineral resource for the Roby Footwall Zone was estimated as of December 31, 2013 by Denis Decharte P.Eng. and QP. The mineral resource calculation uses a minimum 1.5 g/t palladium resource block cut-off. The
mineral resource estimate is based on the combination of geological modeling, geostatistics and conventional block modelling (5m by 5m by 5m blocks). Grade capping was determined not to be necessary, however influence of composite intervals with
palladium grade higher than 50 g/t were limited in space. The Roby Zone resource models used the OK grade interpolation method within a 3D block model with mineralized zones defined by wireframe solids. The mineral resource is exclusive of mineral
reserve and mined-out material as of December 31, 2014. |
12. |
The mineral resource for the Powerline Zone was estimated as of February 2, 2015 by Chris Roney, P.Geo. and QP, a private consultant to the Company. This resource estimate was based on a 1.0 g/t Pd cut-off grade.
The Powerline Zone mineral resources were estimated from drilling completed to December 31, 2014. The mineral resource uses a minimum 1.0 g/t Pd resource block cut-off. The mineral resource estimate is based on the combination of geological
modeling, geostatistics and conventional block modeling (10m x 10m x 10m blocks). The Powerline Zone resource models used the OK grade interpolation method. |
13. |
The mineral resource for the Sheriff Zone is based on estimates originally provided in the Companys September 5, 2013 press release, adjusted to a cut-off grade of 1.0 g/t Pd and to account for the overlap
with the preliminary resource estimates for the Powerline Zone by Chris Roney, P.Geo. and QP. |
14. |
The mineral resource for the North VT Rim Zone was estimated as at December 31st, 2013 by Chris Roney, P.Geo. and QP. |
15. |
Mineral resource estimates for the RGO stockpile shown in the Companys March 21, 2014 statement of mineral reserves and mineral resources were converted to proven mineral reserves, under the direction of
David N. Penna, P.Geo. and QP. |
29
Mining Operations
Mining Method
The LDI Life of Mine (LOM)
production plan is based on the mineral reserves derived from the 2014 LDI Report, updated by the Company in February of 2015 to include RGO stockpile and other mineral resources above the 1065L (Current Mine Plan). This plan has
a mine life through 2021, with a total tonnage mined of about 22.3 Mt. The underground mining is by blasthole methods using LDI employees.
In 2014, the Company commissioned a new technical study to re-scope the economic potential of the mineral resource at LDI. The results of the
study are disclosed in the PEA filed on March 27, 2015, which is available for review on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The PEA is at a scoping level and is preliminary in nature. The Phase 2 Expansion includes inferred mineral resources that
are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves.
The PEA evaluated an updated block model that incorporated all exploration data prior to December 31, 2014. Refer to Figure 4 below.
Mining zones were evaluated individually using a break even cut-off grade methodology where operating cost equals the NSR value of the mineralization. The cut-off grade is also reported as the palladium grade for the given NSR value, assuming a
constant ratio between grades for all other metal values. Cut-off grade estimates were made for the open pit, Roby Footwall Zone, Offset Hangingwall Zone above the 1065 metre level (1065L), Offset Footwall Zone above the 1065L,
and the Offset Zone below the 1065L.
Two scenarios have been developed to capture potentially mineable material by region in an effort to
isolate them for individual economic evaluations. Each mine plan targeted production rates to maintain a nominal mill throughput of 12,500 tpd.
Open Pit Expansion: This scenario is the expansion of the currently idle open pit mine. Several near
surface resource models were evaluated together to establish a potential ultimate pit mining shape. Due to the duration of the open pit, this scenario adds potential tonnage from the Offset Footwall above the 1065L which becomes potentially economic
to supplement the open pit mill feed. The Open Pit Expansion scenario could add approximately 38.5 Mt of mill feed grading 1.27 g/t Pd, and when combined with the Current Mine Plan, extends the mine life to 2029. There are no inferred resources
included in this plan. The mining is proposed to be by loader-truck using LDI employees.
Phase 2
Expansion: This scenario consists of deepening the shaft from the current 825L to 1500L to access the lower Offset Zone material that was drilled in 2014 and will be further delineated by the 2015 exploration program. The Phase
2 Expansion includes the addition of a paste backfill plant, a material handling system and supporting infrastructure. Using an overhand blasthole method in a primary - secondary stoping sequence, the Phase 2 Expansion has the potential to add 5.1
Mt grading 3.6 g/t Pd of Measured and Indicated and 5.8 Mt grading 3.0 g/t Pd of inferred mineral resources to the production profile.
The base case scenario for the PEA is the Current Mine Plan with the Open Pit Expansion (Base Case) and does not include
the Phase 2 Expansion.
30
Figure 4 Overview of LDI mining complex
Metallurgical Process
The LDI concentrator has a milling capacity of up to 15,000 tpd, depending on head grade, utilizing primary and secondary crushing for run of
mine material, followed by SAG, Ball Milling and ultrafine grinding in Vertimills®. The mill is operated 365 days per year. Mill feed is a combination of low grade from the RGO stockpile
(about 1.0 g/t Pd) and higher grade material from the underground mine (average grade of 4.4 g/t Pd in 2014). Palladium recovery is most sensitive to particle size and head grade. Tertiary grinding is performed by three Vertimills® (two in service) reducing particle size to a P80 of 50 microns. Opportunity exists to further increase the Pd recovery from flotation by achieving a P80 of 38 microns. At this particle size,
Xstrata Processing Services (XPS) indicated that recovery of 86% Pd is possible.
The Company installed a flash
flotation cell at the LDI mill in late 2014 which has the potential of realizing additional incremental Pd recovery, above the current baseline of 50 microns.
31
Production Forecast
The potential production plan for the Base Case developed in the PEA for 2016 onwards is illustrated in Figure 5 and highlights production
sequencing by zone.
Figure 5 PEA Base Case Plan Yearly Production Schedule
A yearly production schedule developed in the PEA for the Current Mine Plan and Base Case for 2016 onwards
is included in Table 2 below.
Table 2 PEA Yearly Production Schedule for Current Mine Plan and Base Case
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plan |
|
Feed Source (million
Tonnes per annum) |
|
16 |
|
|
17 |
|
|
18 |
|
|
19 |
|
|
20 |
|
|
21 |
|
|
22 |
|
|
23 |
|
|
24 |
|
|
25 |
|
|
26 |
|
|
27 |
|
|
28 |
|
|
29 |
|
|
Total** |
|
Current Mine Plan* |
|
Tailings |
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
|
RGO Stockpile |
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
2.4 |
|
|
|
1.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.5 |
|
|
|
Roby Footwall |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.7 |
|
|
|
Offset Hangingwall - Phase 1 |
|
|
1.6 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.8 |
|
|
|
Total* |
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
|
|
3.0 |
|
|
|
0.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
22.3 |
|
Base Case (Current
Mine Plan plus Open Pit Expansion) |
|
Tailings |
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
RGO Stockpile |
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
2.4 |
|
|
|
1.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.5 |
|
|
Open Pit - Roby, Sheriff, NVT |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
2.7 |
|
|
|
3.1 |
|
|
|
3.3 |
|
|
|
4.2 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
34.7 |
|
|
Roby Footwall |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
|
Offset Hangingwall - Phase 1 |
|
|
1.6 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
7.8 |
|
|
|
Offset Footwall - Above 1065L |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3.7 |
|
|
|
Total** |
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
2.7 |
|
|
|
60.8 |
|
* |
The Current Mine Plan is based on the previously stated mineral reserves, augmented with the RGO stockpile and other mineral resources above 1065L. |
** |
Totals may not sum due to rounding. |
32
Mine Life
The Base Case scenario developed in the PEA includes the Current Mine Plan, as stated previously, with the addition of the Open Pit Expansion.
This combined scenario includes 61 Mt of mineralized material grading 1.6 g/t Pd that may be processed during a mine life that extends to 2029.
Smelting Contracts
During the second
quarter of 2012, NAP entered into an agreement with Vale for the smelting of LDI Mine concentrate. The agreement with Vale includes an advance payment option to NAP (less processing charges). The terms of the contract are within industry norms. The
agreement expires June 30, 2015. NAP is in discussion with a number of smelters regarding processing of its concentrate.
Environmental
Annual monitoring for physical and chemical stability of water surrounding the LDI property is ongoing and will be continued for a number of
years after the mine has closed.
Every three years there is an extensive biological monitoring study that covers an area of 300 km2 around the mine site. This includes the monitoring of fisheries, plants, soils, water, and benthic invertebrates, as well as algae quality and assessment. No negative trends have been associated with
the LDI property on the surrounding ecosystem.
The Company complies in all material respects with current legislation, and it has all
necessary approvals and licenses for the operation of the mine. LDI will be submitting a CPA this year for a TMF expansion.
The mine sits
in an area of interest to five Aboriginal groups which have asserted treaty rights and/or traditional usage, in accordance with federal government criteria. The mine regularly interacts with these groups in a number of ways to ensure that any
concerns, issues, or questions are addressed.
Payback Period of Capital
The Base Case scenario developed in the PEA requires $59M of project capital expenditures and generates an estimated after-tax NPV5% of $573M with a total positive cash flow from operations in every year.
Taxes
On an undiscounted cash basis, approximately $55.1M in taxes are payable during the Base Case scenario of the LDI Mine.
Exploration and Development
Exploration expenditures for 2015 are expected to be approximately $9 million. The principal objectives for the 2015 exploration program are:
33
|
|
|
Extension and limited conversion drilling on the Lower Offset Zone with the primary goal of increasing the size of the Hangingwall Zone mineral resource below the 1065L in support of a potential Phase 2 mine expansion;
|
|
|
|
Extension and conversion drilling in the Upper Offset Zone to replace mined out reserves and extend the life of Phase 1; and |
|
|
|
Proof of concept drilling on selected surface exploration targets including a possible near-surface expression of the Offset Zone and a possible northwest extension to the Roby Zone |
Approximately 38,000 meters of diamond drilling are planned for the Mine Block Intrusion in 2015, the majority of which will be completed from
underground drilling platforms.
Capital expenditures in 2015 are expected to be less than $37 million and will include approximately $11
million for underground development and approximately $13 million for the tailings management facility. The Company plans to implement a long-term tailings management solution and is in the process of finalizing a design that addresses tailings
requirements for the foreseeable future. The Company expects to begin implementation of the solution in the first half of 2015.
Based on
the PEA, next steps for the Company include further technical studies on the Base Case including engineering and geological modelling for the Open Pit Expansion, as well as investigating opportunities for accelerating certain of the higher grade
open pit areas that exist within the shell of the open pit.
Other Mineral Properties in Ontario
In addition to the wholly-owned 8,649 hectares (21,371 acres) Lac des Iles property, the Company holds the rights to several PGE and gold
properties in Ontario. The Company also maintains 50% ownership in a joint venture with Vale for the Shebandowan nickel-copper-PGE property, including the past-producing Shebandowan nickel sulfide mine. The complete Ontario land package, including
the LDI Mine, PGE greenfields properties, gold properties and the Shebandowan joint venture property totals approximately 47,714 hectares (117,904 acres).
34
Figure 6: Ontario mineral properties location map
Greenfields PGE Properties
NAPs current northwestern Ontario PGE greenfields property portfolio, including exploration-stage properties such as the North and the
South Lac des Iles Intrusive Complex which form part of the LDI property, comprises 36,497 hectares of land (90,186 acres) within 205 claims and 2 mining leases. The PGE greenfields properties comprise several mafic-ultramafic intrusive bodies, all
of which are believed to be related to a single, major Late Archean mafic-ultramafic magmatic event (Lac des Iles
35
magmatic suite) that was responsible for the formation of the MBI and its attendant PGE deposits. The portfolio includes the North and South LDI intrusions that are part of the LDI
mafic-ultramafic intrusive complex and remain underexplored despite falling within the Companys LDI Mine property.
The Company
intends to leverage its advanced understanding of PGE mineralizing processes at LDI to explore other similar mafic-ultramafic complexes. NAP now controls the mineral rights for a majority of the known LDI suite of intrusions that, despite
intermittent historic work, have never been systematically explored. All of these PGE greenfields properties are located within 30 kilometres of the LDI Mine and mill complex. As part of its development strategy, the Company intends to stake or
acquire additional mining claims and properties in the LDI region, where such transactions are economically and strategically justified.
Selected PGE greenfields properties are discussed below.
North Lac des Iles Intrusive Complex (part of the Lac des Iles property)
The North Lac des Iles property encompasses a discrete ultramafic-dominant intrusive complex that is believed to be related to the same
magmatic event that produced the adjacent MBI to the south. The North Lac des Iles property consists of 39 claims covering an area of 2,749 hectares (6,793 acres). Despite hosting widespread, encouraging PGE values from surface sampling programs,
the North LDI complex has not had any systematic drilling. In 2013, the Company completed one hole totaling approximately 708 metres of diamond drilling on this part of the LDI property.
South Lac des Iles Intrusive Complex (part of the Lac des Iles property)
The South Lac des Iles property incorporates two discrete mafic intrusions (Camp Lake intrusion and South LDI intrusion) that are generally
contiguous with the MBI. Both the South LDI and Camp Lake intrusions are believed to represent the products of separate magma pulses that formed during the emplacement of the LDI intrusive complex. Numerous anomalous PGE values are reported from the
South Lac des Iles property and most of these occur within the South LDI intrusion, which is directly along strike and south of the Offset Zone deposit on the MBI. The property includes 15 claims and two mining leases covering an area of 4,441
hectares (10,974 acres).
Legris Lake Property
The Company has an option to acquire 100% of the Legris Lake PGM property (located adjacent to the south east portion of Lac des Iles) in
exchange for cash payments and a 2.5% NSR royalty on future production from the property and a 1.5% NSR royalty on future production from certain mineral claims adjacent to the property. NAP has the right to purchase 1% of the NSR royalty on future
production from the property and 1% of the NSR royalty on future production from certain mineral claims adjacent to the property upon payment of $1,000,000. The optioned and adjacent Company staked claims together total 4,257 hectares in 20 claims.
The property is at a preliminary exploration stage; however, its PGM potential and close proximity to the LDI mill presents an exciting exploration target.
36
Buck Lake Property
The Buck Lake property lies on the western end of a linear magnetic feature related to the Buck Lake intrusion, comprising both gabbroic and
ultramafic rocks. The Buck Lake property consists of two claims covering 439 hectares (1084 acres). The property was staked by the Company in 2012. In 2013, the Company completed one hole totalling approximately 545 metres of diamond drilling on the
property.
Bullseye Property
The Bullseye property covers a discrete, positive magnetic anomaly that was identified by the Company as a possible unrecognized LDI suite
intrusion. The Bullseye property was staked in 2012 and consists of one claim covering 255 hectares (630 acres). In 2013, the Company completed one hole totalling approximately 374 metres of diamond drilling on the property.
Chisamore Property
The Chisamore
property covers a positive magnetic anomaly that may connect to the magnetic high associated with the Tib Lake intrusion located to the south. The Chisamore property was staked by the Company in 2012 and consists of eight claims covering 1,642
hectares (4,058 acres). In 2013, the Company completed two holes totalling approximately 1,012 metres of diamond drilling on the property.
Demars
Lake Property
The Demars Lake property covers a portion of a mafic-ultramafic intrusion that has seen limited, prior exploration.
The property consists of three claims covering 660 hectares (1,630 acres) and was staked by the Company in 2012. In 2013, the Company completed two holes totalling approximately 682 metres of diamond drilling on the property. In 2014, the claims
were surveyed using a helicopter-borne electromagnetic and magnetic system (Z-TEM system owned and operated by Geotech Ltd.)
Dog River Property
The Dog River property covers an approximately five kilometres wide layered mafic-ultramafic intrusion located 20 kilometres to
the west of the LDI Mine. The property was staked by the Company in 2012 and includes 17 claims covering 3,218 hectares (7,952 acres).
Shelby
Property
The Shelby property covers a large portion of the Shelby Lake and Towle Lake intrusive complexes which include known
PGE-bearing zones such as the Vande, Powder Hill and Stinger zones. In April 2014, the Company entered into an option agreement with Platinum Group Metals Ltd. (PTM) whereby the Company can earn a 100% interest in 20 claims
covering 3,953 hectares (9,768 acres). The property is subject to a 1% NSR royalty in favour of PTM and to an additional underlying NSR royalty on some claims. In October and November 2014, the Company staked an additional 19 claims covering 4,014
hectares (9,919 acres) adjacent to the PTM option. In 2014, the PTM claims optioned from PTM and some of the Company staked claims were surveyed using a helicopter-borne electromagnetic and magnetic system (Z-TEM system owned and operated by Geotech
Ltd.).
37
Taman Lake Property
The Taman Lake property was staked in 2012 and comprises six claims covering 1,176 hectares (2,905 acres). The property covers a series of
irregularly-shaped mafic-ultramafic intrusions. In 2013, the Company completed one hole totalling approximately 476 metres of diamond drilling on the property.
Tib Lake Property
The Tib Lake
property covers most of the known extent of the eight kilometres diameter Tib Lake mafic-ultramafic intrusion. The Company has an option to purchase a 100% interest in 20 claims located northwest of the LDI Mine, known as the Tib Lake property. The
property is subject to a 2.5% NSR royalty in favour of a third party on a portion of the claims and a 2.5% NSR royalty in favour of Houston Lake Mining on the remaining claims. The property includes an additional 19 claims staked by the Company in
2012 and four claims purchased from Platinex Inc. in September 2012. The complete Tib Lake property totals 7,389 hectares (18,259 acres).
Wakinoo
Lake Property
The Wakinoo Lake property is adjacent to the Demars Lake property and comprises nine claims (six staked by the
Company and three under option) covering 1,759 hectares (4,347 acres). The 3.5 km2 Wakinoo Lake mafic intrusion has been the target of exploration programs since 1972. Historic PGE exploration
efforts have focused on gabbroic rocks southwest of Wakinoo Lake, near the original 1976 PGE (Texas Gulf) showing. In 2013, the Company completed three holes totalling approximately 1,143 metres of diamond drilling on the property. In 2014, the
claims were surveyed using a helicopter-borne electromagnetic and magnetic system (Z-TEM system owned and operated by Geotech Ltd.).
Varris Lake
Property
The Varris Lake property was staked in 2013 by the Company and comprises three claims covering 545 hectares (1,347
acres). The property covers a portion of the Vande Zone within the Towle Lake Intrusive Complex, known to host several PGE occurrences. In 2014, the claims were surveyed using a helicopter-borne electromagnetic and magnetic system (Z-TEM system
owned and operated by Geotech Ltd.).
Greenfields Gold Properties
Shabaqua Property
The Shabaqua
Gold property is located approximately 50km WNW of Thunder Bay. It currently comprises 12 claims totaling 1,762 hectares (4,353 acres) which were acquired in 2010 and 2011. In 2010, the Company entered into option agreements for the K. Kukkee (six
claims of 597 hectares) and P. Kukkee (one claim of 20 hectares) properties. These option agreements were exercised in 2012 and the seven claims transferred to LDI on March 15, 2012. Both optionors retain a 2% NSR. The Company staked 5 claims
of 1,145 hectares (2,829 acres) in November 2011 adjacent to the Kukkee properties.
38
Shebandowan Property and Shebandowan West Project
On December 10, 2007, the Company earned a 50% interest in the Shebandowan property comprising the former producing Shebandowan nickel
sulfide mine and the surrounding Haines and Conacher properties, pursuant to an option and joint venture agreement with Vale. The property is located approximately 90 kilometres west of Thunder Bay, Ontario and approximately 100 kilometres southwest
of the LDI property. Vale retains a back in right to become operator of the joint venture and increase its interest from 50% to 60%, exercisable in the event that a feasibility study on the property results in a mineral reserve and mineral resource
estimate equal to 200 million pounds of nickel and other metals. Vale must incur expenditures equalling 200% of NAPs total expenditures incurred as of the time of the delivery of notice from Vale to become operator.
The Shebandowan West project lies within the north-western portion of the Shebandowan property, and encompasses three mineralized zones, all
of which are located at shallow depths. The Shebandowan West project is located along the western strike extension of the former Shebandowan mine, and exhibits many similar geological features and controls to those found at the mine-site. The
Shebandowan West projects nickel copper-PGM mineralization is believed by management to represent the western extension of the Shebandowan mine orebody. A compilation and review of technical information for the property was initiated in 2014
for the purpose of re-assessing the mineral resources and exploration potential.
ENVIRONMENT
The Companys mining, exploration, and development activities are subject to various levels of federal, provincial, and municipal laws
and regulations relating to protection of the environment, including requirements for closure and reclamation of mining properties. In all jurisdictions in which the Company operates, environmental licenses, permits and other regulatory approvals
are required in order to engage in exploration, mining and processing, and mine closure activities.
The Companys operating
facilities have environmental monitoring processes and procedures in place to identify, and eliminate or mitigate environmental risks. These processes are designed to identify risks early on and allow the Company to respond to risks as they arise.
Monitoring processes include Environmental Effects Monitoring studies, toxic substance reduction plans, greenhouse gas emissions monitoring and reporting, National Pollutant Release Inventory monitoring and reporting, quarterly sampling and other
regulatory compliance monitoring in order to protect water quality and reduce the potential for contamination of surface or groundwater. The Company also has various programs to reuse and conserve water at its operations. In order to mitigate the
impact of dust produced by its operations, the Company uses dust suppression techniques.
The Company also has a practice of participating
in external and internal environmental compliance audits of its business activities on a regular and scheduled basis, in order to evaluate its operations. External Environmental Compliance Assessment Audits were performed on the LDI Mine by DMcL
Consulting Inc. in 2014 and by AECOM in 2010. In addition, the Ministry of Environment performed numerous audits on site in 2012 and 2013. The audits assess compliance with applicable laws and regulations, permit and license requirements, company
policies and management standards including guidelines and procedures and identify areas where improvements are needed so that any issues can be addressed proactively.
39
As part of the Companys goal to minimize the impact on the environment from its projects
and operations, the Company has developed comprehensive closure and reclamation plans during the initial project planning and design. The Company periodically reviews and updates closure plans and believes that it will meet current regulatory
requirements. The Companys rehabilitation and remediation plans include re-vegetation and dust suppression measures. The Companys rehabilitation program on its deactivated tailings management areas at the LDI Mine includes several trial
based treatments in an effort to successfully re-vegetate and mitigate dusting events on these areas, in addition to continual monitoring. The Company will continue to implement innovative rehabilitation treatments on its tailings management areas
through research and monitoring initiatives including the Scientific Research & Experimental Design tax credit program. These efforts have received international peer recognition and are consistent with the Companys corporate
direction to meet and surpass environmental standards.
The LDI Mine closure plan provides for approximately $14.1 million of closure and
restoration costs. This obligation of the Company is secured by a letter of credit in the amount of $14.1 million. The mine closure obligation will be revised in connection with the CPA to reflect the Companys most current closure cost
estimates, expected mine life and market rate assumptions.
The Company has developed environmental policies, which are communicated to
employees through monthly safety training. A committee of the Board reviews the Companys environmental policies and programs periodically and oversees the Companys environmental performance.
DIVIDENDS
The Company
has not paid any dividends to date on the Common Shares. The Company intends to retain its earnings, if any, to finance the growth and development of its business. Accordingly, the Company does not expect to pay any dividends on its Common Shares in
the near future. The actual timing, payment and amount of any dividends will be determined by the Board from time to time based upon, among other things, cash flow, results of operations and financial condition, the need for funds to finance ongoing
operations and such other business considerations as the Board may consider relevant.
CAPITAL STRUCTURE
Common Shares
The authorized
share capital of the Company consists of an unlimited number of Common Shares. As of March 30, 2015, there were 393,690,541 Common Shares issued and outstanding. The Common Shares issued and outstanding as of March 30, 2015 exclude
5,415,342 Common Shares reserved for issuance pursuant to outstanding stock options, which are exercisable at a weighted average exercise price of $0.97 per Common Share. The Common Shares issued and outstanding as of March 30, 2015 also
excludes shares issuable on conversion of convertible debt and exercise of warrants.
Each Common Share entitles the holder thereof to one
vote at all meetings of shareholders other than meetings at which only the holders of another class or series of shares are entitled to vote. Each Common Share entitles the holder thereof to receive any dividends declared by the Board and the
remaining property of the Company upon dissolution.
40
There are no pre-emptive or conversion rights that attach to the Common Shares. All Common Shares
now outstanding and to be outstanding are, or will be when issued, fully paid and non-assessable, which means the holders of such Common Shares will have paid the purchase price in full and the Company cannot ask them to pay additional funds.
The Companys by-laws provide for certain rights of its shareholders in accordance with the provisions of the CBCA. Such by-laws may be
amended either by a majority vote of the shareholders or by a majority vote of the Board. Any amendment of the by-laws by action of the Board must be submitted to the next meeting of the shareholders whereupon the by-law amendment must be confirmed
as amended by a majority vote of the shareholders voting on such matter. If the by-law amendment is rejected by the shareholders, the by-law ceases to be effective and no subsequent resolution of the Board to amend a by-law having substantially the
same purpose or effect shall be effective until it is confirmed or confirmed as amended by the shareholders.
Shareholders do not have
cumulative voting rights for the election of directors. Therefore, the holders of more than 50% of the Common Shares voting for the election of directors could, if they choose to do so, elect all of the directors and, in such event, the holders of
the remaining Common Shares would not be able to elect any directors.
The foregoing description may not be complete and is subject to,
and qualified in its entirety by reference to, the terms and provisions of the Companys constating documents, as amended.
2012 Convertible
Debentures
On July 31, 2012, the Company issued convertible debentures in the aggregate principal amount of
$43,000,000 (the 2012 Debentures). The 2012 Debentures were issued under a trust indenture dated July 31, 2012 between the Company and Computershare Trust Company of Canada (Computershare), as trustee. The
aggregate principal amount of the 2012 Debentures authorized for issue immediately was limited to the aggregate principal amount of $43,000,000. However, the Company may, from time to time, without the consent of holders of 2012 Debentures, issue
additional debentures of the same series or of a different series under the trust indenture.
The 2012 Debentures have a maturity
date of September 30, 2017 and bear interest from the date of issue at 6.15% per annum, payable semi-annually in arrears on March 31 and September 30 of each year, commencing on September 30, 2012.
Holders may convert their 2012 Debentures into Common Shares at any time prior to the close of business on the earlier of (i) the
business day immediately preceding September 30, 2017, (ii) the business day immediately preceding the date specified by the Corporation for redemption of the 2012 Debentures, and (iii) if being repurchased on a change of control, on
the business day immediately preceding the payment date, at a conversion price of $2.90 per Common Share, being a conversion rate of approximately 344.8 Common Shares per $1,000 principal amount of 2012 Debentures, subject to adjustment in certain
events as described in the trust indenture.
The 2012 Debentures will, except in the event of certain circumstances, not be redeemable
before October 4, 2015. On and after October 4, 2015, and prior to September 30, 2017, the 2012 Debentures may be redeemed in whole or in part at any time from time to time, at the option of the Company on not more than 60 days and
not less than 40 days prior notice at a price equal to their
41
principal amount plus accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the date of redemption, provided that the market price on the date on which the notice of redemption is given is not less than
125% of the conversion price.
The foregoing description may not be complete and is subject to, and qualified in its entirety by reference
to, the terms and provisions of the Companys trust indenture dated July 31, 2012 between the Company and Computershare, as trustee.
2014
Convertible Debentures and Warrants (Series 1)
On January 31, 2014 and February 10, 2014, the Company issued
convertible unsecured subordinated debentures in the aggregate principal amount of $32,000,000 (the Series 1 Debentures), including approximately 16.8 million Common Share purchase warrants (the Series 1
Warrants). The conversion price of the principal of the Series 1 Debentures is $0.635 per Common Share. The exercise price of the Series 1 Warrants is $0.5786 per Common Share, subject to adjustment in certain events.
The Series 1 Debentures have a maturity date of January 31, 2019, and bear interest at an annual rate of 7.5% payable semi-annually in
arrears on January 31 and July 31 of each year.
Holders may convert their Series 1 Debentures into Common Shares of the Company
at any time at a conversion rate of approximately 1,575 Common Shares per $1,000 principal amount of Series 1 Debentures. Holders converting their debentures will receive all accrued and unpaid interest, as well as interest that would have been paid
if the Series 1 Debentures were held through to maturity.
The Series 1 Warrants have an expiry date of March 28, 2017. Each Series 1
Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share of the Company subject to adjustment in certain events. As of March 30, 2015, Series 1 Debentures with face value of $31,999,000 had been converted into 77,168,127 Common Shares
of the Company, and Series 1 Debentures with face value of $1,000 were outstanding. All Series 1 Warrants were outstanding.
2014 Convertible
Debentures and Warrants (Series 2)
On April 11, 2014 and April 17, 2014, the Company issued convertible unsecured
subordinated debentures in the aggregate principal amount of $35,000,000 (the Series 2 Debentures), including approximately 18.9 million Common Share purchase warrants (the Series 2 Warrants). The
conversion price of the principal of the Series 2 Debentures is $0.4629 per Common Share. The exercise price of the Series 2 Warrants is $0.5786 per common share, subject to adjustment in certain events.
The Series 2 Debentures have a maturity date of April 11, 2019, and bear interest at an annual rate of 7.5% payable semi-annually in
arrears on March 31 and September 30 of each year.
Holders may convert their Series 2 Debentures into Common Shares of the
Company at any time at a conversion rate of approximately 2,160 Common Shares per $1,000 principal amount of Series 2 Debentures. Holders converting their debentures will receive all accrued and unpaid interest, as well as interest that would have
been paid if the Series 2 Debentures were held through to maturity.
The Series 2 Warrants have an expiry date of April 11, 2016.
Each Series 2 Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Common Share of the Company, subject to adjustment in certain events.
42
As of March 30, 2015, Series 2 Debentures with face value of $34,750,000 had been converted into 113,470,262 Common Shares of the Company, and Series 2 Debentures with face value of $250,000
were outstanding. All Series 2 Warrants were outstanding.
The foregoing description may not be complete and is subject to, and qualified
in its entirety by reference to, the terms and provisions of the Companys convertible debenture indenture dated as of January 31, 2014 between the Company and Computershare, the first supplemental indenture dated January 31, 2014
between the Company and Computershare, the second supplemental indenture dated April 11, 2014, and the warrant indenture dated April 11, 2014 between the Company and Computershare.
MARKET FOR SECURITIES
The Common Shares are listed for trading on the NYSE MKT, LLC (NYSE MKT) under the trading symbol PAL
and on the TSX under the trading symbol PDL. The following table sets out the reported high and low closing prices and trading volumes of the Common Shares on the NYSE MKT and the TSX for the periods indicated.
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|
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|
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|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
NYSE MKT |
|
|
TSX |
|
|
|
High (US$) |
|
|
Low (US$) |
|
|
Volume |
|
|
High (CAD$) |
|
|
Low (CAD$) |
|
|
Volume |
|
2015 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
March (1 - 30) |
|
|
0.291 |
|
|
|
0.18 |
|
|
|
79,881,359 |
|
|
|
0.365 |
|
|
|
0.25 |
|
|
|
13,130,408 |
|
February |
|
|
0.345 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
127,938,685 |
|
|
|
0.415 |
|
|
|
0.22 |
|
|
|
25,868,296 |
|
January |
|
|
0.19 |
|
|
|
0.132 |
|
|
|
43,235,339 |
|
|
|
0.22 |
|
|
|
0.155 |
|
|
|
7,022,803 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December |
|
|
0.155 |
|
|
|
0.130 |
|
|
|
41,116,827 |
|
|
|
0.17 |
|
|
|
0.15 |
|
|
|
6,148,261 |
|
November |
|
|
0.18 |
|
|
|
0.133 |
|
|
|
42,595,286 |
|
|
|
0.20 |
|
|
|
0.15 |
|
|
|
7,618,351 |
|
October |
|
|
0.195 |
|
|
|
0.133 |
|
|
|
47,958,879 |
|
|
|
0.215 |
|
|
|
0.16 |
|
|
|
6,034,453 |
|
September |
|
|
0.28 |
|
|
|
0.187 |
|
|
|
58,619,162 |
|
|
|
0.30 |
|
|
|
0.20 |
|
|
|
10,937,213 |
|
August |
|
|
0.275 |
|
|
|
0.251 |
|
|
|
39,179,829 |
|
|
|
0.30 |
|
|
|
0.275 |
|
|
|
6,172,982 |
|
July |
|
|
0.333 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
67,581,067 |
|
|
|
0.355 |
|
|
|
0.295 |
|
|
|
10,152,534 |
|
June |
|
|
0.38 |
|
|
|
0.273 |
|
|
|
128,408,327 |
|
|
|
0.39 |
|
|
|
0.295 |
|
|
|
20,904,567 |
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May |
|
|
0.30 |
|
|
|
0.239 |
|
|
|
112,631,256 |
|
|
|
0.33 |
|
|
|
0.27 |
|
|
|
14,999,200 |
|
April |
|
|
0.488 |
|
|
|
0.287 |
|
|
|
111,784,092 |
|
|
|
0.55 |
|
|
|
0.315 |
|
|
|
27,623,100 |
|
March |
|
|
0.589 |
|
|
|
0.41 |
|
|
|
186,826,022 |
|
|
|
0.66 |
|
|
|
0.455 |
|
|
|
24,357,782 |
|
February |
|
|
0.407 |
|
|
|
0.309 |
|
|
|
117,314,207 |
|
|
|
0.445 |
|
|
|
0.34 |
|
|
|
30,957,789 |
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January |
|
|
0.90 |
|
|
|
0.42 |
|
|
|
103,441,248 |
|
|
|
0.96 |
|
|
|
0.445 |
|
|
|
22,795,134 |
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The Companys outstanding 2012 Debentures are listed for trading on the TSX under the trading symbol
PDL.DB. The 2012 Debentures commenced trading on the TSX on July 31, 2012. The following table sets out the reported high and low closing prices and trading volume of the debentures on the TSX for the periods indicated.
43
|
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|
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TSX |
|
|
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High (CAD$) |
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|
Low (CAD$) |
|
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Volume |
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2015 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
March (1 - 30) |
|
|
52.50 |
|
|
|
48.25 |
|
|
|
166,000 |
|
February |
|
|
52.50 |
|
|
|
42.50 |
|
|
|
410,000 |
|
January |
|
|
47.50 |
|
|
|
35.00 |
|
|
|
281,000 |
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December |
|
|
39.99 |
|
|
|
32.06 |
|
|
|
313,000 |
|
November |
|
|
50.00 |
|
|
|
35.00 |
|
|
|
283,000 |
|
October |
|
|
58.00 |
|
|
|
45.00 |
|
|
|
281,000 |
|
September |
|
|
66.00 |
|
|
|
58.00 |
|
|
|
751,000 |
|
August |
|
|
65.00 |
|
|
|
63.00 |
|
|
|
153,000 |
|
July |
|
|
68.25 |
|
|
|
65.00 |
|
|
|
246,000 |
|
June |
|
|
70.00 |
|
|
|
64.00 |
|
|
|
186,000 |
|
May |
|
|
64.50 |
|
|
|
62.50 |
|
|
|
444,000 |
|
April |
|
|
67.13 |
|
|
|
63.00 |
|
|
|
762,000 |
|
March |
|
|
64.25 |
|
|
|
49.00 |
|
|
|
1,092,000 |
|
February |
|
|
55.00 |
|
|
|
45.26 |
|
|
|
1,131,000 |
|
January |
|
|
64.00 |
|
|
|
41.00 |
|
|
|
1,486,000 |
|
The Companys outstanding Series 1 Debentures are listed for trading on the TSX under the trading symbol
PDL.DB.A. The Series 1 Debentures commenced trading on the TSX on January 31, 2014. The following table sets out the reported high and low closing prices and trading volume of the debentures on the TSX for the periods indicated.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TSX |
|
|
|
High (CAD$) |
|
|
Low (CAD$) |
|
|
Volume |
|
2015 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
March (1 - 30) |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
February |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
January |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
November |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
October |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
September |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
August |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
July |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
June |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
May |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
April |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
0 |
|
March |
|
|
130.02 |
|
|
|
98.00 |
|
|
|
4,000 |
|
February |
|
|
99.00 |
|
|
|
92.00 |
|
|
|
7,186,000 |
|
January |
|
|
94.00 |
|
|
|
94.00 |
|
|
|
102,000 |
|
The Series 2 Debentures are not listed for trading on any exchange.
44
PRIOR SALES
The following table lists securities of the Company that have been issued during the year ended December 31, 2014 but are not listed or quoted on a
marketplace.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Securities |
|
Date of Issue |
|
Conversion Price per Debenture / Exercise price per Warrant |
|
2,700,367 Series 2 Warrants |
|
April 17, 2014 |
|
$ |
0.5786 |
|
$5,000,000 Series 2 Debentures(1) |
|
April 17, 2014 |
|
$ |
0.4629 |
(2) |
16,202,204 Series 2 Warrants |
|
April 11, 2014 |
|
$ |
0.5786 |
|
$30,000,000 Series 2 Debentures |
|
April 11, 2014 |
|
$ |
0.4629 |
|
Series 1 Warrants |
|
February 10, 2014 |
|
$ |
0.5786 |
(3) |
Series 1 Warrants |
|
January 31, 2014 |
|
$ |
0.5786 |
|
(1) |
Upon conversion of Series 2 Debentures, holders also receive a make-whole amount representing the unaccrued and unpaid interest that would have been paid if such debentures were held to maturity, subject to adjustment
in certain circumstances. As of March 30, 2015, $34.75 million of the Series 2 Debentures have been converted into 113,470,262 Common Shares. |
(2) |
Conversion price at which holders may convert their Series 2 Debentures into Common Shares of the Company. |
(3) |
Exercise price at which each holder of a Series 1 Warrant may purchase one Common Share of the Company, which has been adjusted in accordance with the full-ratchet anti-dilution provisions of the Series 1
Warrants. |
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
The following table sets forth information about the directors and executive officers of the Company as of the date hereof. Each
directors term of office expires at the next annual general meeting of shareholders, or when he or she resigns or ceases to be a director by operation of law.
Directors of the Company
|
|
|
|
|
André J. Douchane
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Director |
|
Mr. Douchane is a seasoned mining executive with over 40 years of experience in the mining industry with a solid track record of
successfully bringing development projects into production. He was appointed to the Companys Board of Directors in April 2003, served as the President and CEO between 2003 and 2006, and as Chairman between 2006 and 2013. Previously, he held
senior positions with several precious and base metal international mining companies including: as CEO of Mahdia Gold Corp, CEO of THEMAC Resources Group Ltd., President and CEO of Starfield Resources Inc., President and COO of Chief Consolidated
Mining Co., and Vice President, Operations of Franco and Euro-Nevada (Newmont Mining Corporation). He holds a Bachelors degree in Mining Engineering from the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology and is a graduate of the Executive
Business Program at the Kellogg School of Business in Chicago. |
|
|
Director since |
|
2003 |
45
|
|
|
|
|
Committees |
|
Technical, Environment, Health and Safety Committee (Chair) |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Mining Executive |
|
|
|
|
|
Alfred L. Hills
Surrey, B.C., Canada
Director |
|
Mr. Hills is a mining executive with over 35 years of international mine evaluation, development and operating experience. From 2006 to
2013, Mr. Hills was the CEO and Director of Kobex Minerals Inc., a Canadian exploration phase mining company, and its predecessor company, International Barytex Resources Ltd. Prior to that, Mr. Hills spent 26 years with the Placer Dome Group of
Companies in a number of senior positions including Vice President Evaluations, and various positions at Placer Domes Papua New Guinea operations during construction, commissioning and start-up. Mr. Hills has participated in developing the CIM
Best Practice guidelines for Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimation and was a corporate member of the SME Resources and Reserve Committee. Mr. Hills was also a member of the Canadian Security Administrators, Mining Technical Advisory and
Monitoring Committee which advised the CSA on mining-related regulatory issues. Mr. Hills is a graduate of the University of British Columbia in Mining and Mineral Process Engineering. Mr. Hills is also a member of the Institute of Corporate
Directors. |
|
|
Director since |
|
2014 |
|
|
Committees |
|
Audit Committee
Technical, Environment, Health and Safety Committee |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Mining Executive |
|
|
|
|
|
John W. Jentz
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Director |
|
Mr. Jentz is a financial and mining professional with 20 years experience in corporate finance and mergers and acquisitions in both
public and private markets. Mr. Jentz is currently Managing Director, Investment Banking at Clarus Securites Inc., a research driven institutional investment dealer. He leads the mining group in equity underwritings and M&A assignments. Prior to
that, Mr. Jentz has worked in global investment banking firms such as Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. and independent Canadian firms such as Westwind Partners Inc. Mr. Jentz is a Chartered Professional Accountant and a Certified Public Accountant and
holds an MBA from McMaster University with a focus on Finance and Marketing. |
|
|
Director since |
|
2014 |
|
|
Committees |
|
Audit Committee |
46
|
|
|
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Managing Director, Investment Banking, Clarus Securities Inc. |
|
|
|
|
|
Robert J. Quinn
Houston, Texas, USA
Chairman and Director |
|
Mr. Quinn was first appointed to the board of directors of the Company in June 2006. He is a founding partner of the Houston mining
transactional law firm Quinn & Brooks LLP, Mr. Quinn has over 30 years of legal and management experience, including as Vice President and General Counsel for Battle Mountain Gold Company. He has extensive experience in M&A transactions,
corporate governance, public disclosure, governmental affairs, environmental law and land management. Mr. Quinn has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Denver, a Juris Doctorate degree from the University of
Denver College of Law and has completed two years of graduate work in mineral economics at the Colorado School of Mines. |
|
|
Director since |
|
2006 |
|
|
Committees |
|
Governance, Nominating and Compensation Committee |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Partner, Quinn & Brooks LLP |
|
|
|
|
|
Gregory J. Van Staveren
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Director |
|
Mr. Van Staveren was appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company in February 2003. Since September 2001, Mr. Van Staveren has been
the President of Strategic Financial Services, a private company providing business advisory services. During this period he has sat on the board of a number of publicly traded companies. Since January 2014 he has acted as the Chief Financial
Officer of Venus Concept Ltd. Mr. Van Staveren is a Chartered Professional Accountant and a Certified Public Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Math (Honours) degree from the University of Waterloo. From February 1998 until September 2001, Mr. Van
Staveren was the Chief Financial Officer of MartinRea International Inc (MRE-TSX), and prior to that he was partner in the mining group of KPMG, which he joined in 1980, and where he provided accounting, and advisory services to his
clients. |
|
|
Director since |
|
2003 |
|
|
Committees |
|
Audit Committee (Chair)
Governance, Nominating and Compensation Committee |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Chief Financial Officer, Venus Concept Ltd. |
47
|
|
|
|
|
William J. Weymark
West Vancouver, B.C., Canada
Director |
|
Appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company in January 2007, Mr. Weymark is President of Weymark Engineering Ltd., a Company
providing consulting services to businesses in the private equity, construction and resource sector. He is also a director of several private companies. Mr. Weymark is a Member of the Industry Advisory Committee for the Norman B. Keevil Institute of
Mining Engineering at the University of British Columbia. Until June 2007, Mr. Weymark was President and CEO of Vancouver Wharves/BCR Marine, a transportation firm located on the west coast of British Columbia. Prior to joining Vancouver Wharves in
1991, Mr. Weymark spent 14 years in the mining industry throughout western Canada working on the start-up and operation of several mines. Mr. Weymark is a Professional Engineer and holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mining and Mineral Process
Engineering from the University of British Columbia and is a graduate of the Institute of Corporate Directors, Directors Education Program. |
|
|
Director since |
|
2007 |
|
|
Committees |
|
Governance, Nominating and Compensation Committee (Chair) Technical, Environment, Health and Safety Committee |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
President, Weymark Engineering Ltd. |
Executive Officers of the Company
|
|
|
|
|
Philippus F. du Toit
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
President and Chief Executive Officer |
|
Mr. du Toit is an accomplished mining executive with a proven track record for executing on his management mandates throughout his career.
Mr. du Toit joined the Company as Chief Executive Officer in March 2013. Mr. du Toit brings significant project management expertise to the Chief Executive Officer role, developed during his 37 years of global experience in the mining industry which
includes senior roles for some of the worlds leading mining companies, and the successful development of multiple large capital projects. Recently, Mr. du Toit served as Executive Vice President and Head of Mining Projects and Exploration for
ArcelorMittal, the worlds leading integrated steel and mining company, where he was responsible for mining strategy, exploration, project and business development. His experience also includes serving as Interim Chief Executive Officer of
Baffinland Iron Mines Corp., as well as having held various senior management positions for Vale, Diavik Diamond Mines (a subsidiary of Rio Tinto plc), Voest Alpine Inc., and Gencor Ltd. Mr. du Toit holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil
Engineering from the University of Pretoria in South Africa. |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
President and Chief Executive Officer, North American Palladium Ltd. |
48
|
|
|
|
|
James E. Gallagher
Oakville, Ontario, Canada
Chief Operating Officer |
|
Mr. Gallagher is a seasoned mining executive with over 30 years of experience in a series of roles spanning operations, projects,
engineering, technology and consulting and joined the Company as Chief Operating Officer in October 2013. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Gallagher served as Global Director of Mining at Hatch Ltd. for seven years, where he led the firms
global mining group involved in transitioning projects to normal operations. Prior to Hatch Ltd., the foundational part of Mr. Gallaghers experience came from his 24-year career at Falconbridge Ltd. in a variety of operations and project
management roles, most of which were based in Northern Ontario. Mr. Gallagher also has a track record for identifying improvement opportunities and building out technical capabilities. Mr. Gallagher holds a Bachelor of Mining Engineering degree from
Laurentian University in Canada. |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Chief Operating Officer, North American Palladium Ltd. |
|
|
|
|
|
David C. Langille
Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
Chief Financial Officer |
|
Mr. Langille is a seasoned finance executive with over 29 years of international public company experience and joined the Company as Chief
Financial Officer in January 2013. He brings a wealth of international financial expertise to NAP, notably a solid track record of optimizing operations to improve operating margins, along with merger and acquisition experience, and raising capital
through a broad range of capital market products. Most recently, Mr. Langille served as the Chief Financial Officer and Vice President, Finance of Breakwater Resources Ltd. Prior to this, he served in senior financial positions for various public
companies, including Lindsey Morden Group Inc., Capital Environmental Resource Inc., Cott Corporation, and TVX Gold Inc. Mr. Langille received an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ontario,
Canada, and is a member of the Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario and the Society of Management Accountants of Ontario. |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Chief Financial Officer, North American Palladium Ltd. |
49
|
|
|
|
|
David Peck
Brandon, Manitoba, Canada
Vice President, Exploration |
|
Dr. Peck is a Professional Geoscientist with nearly 30 years of exploration and research experience specializing in magmatic
nickel-copper-PGE deposits. Dr. Peck holds global recognition as an expert in PGE exploration after serving as a senior technical and strategic consultant to several public and private companies and having worked on exploration and mining projects
in more than a dozen countries. He was directly involved in several significant magmatic nickel-copper-PGE discoveries in Canada and overseas. Recently, Dr. Peck served as President and Senior Technical and Strategic Consultant at Revelation
Geoscience Ltd., and prior to this, he served as Global Nickel Commodity Leader at Anglo American plc, a Senior Geologist for Falconbridge Ltd., a Senior Mineral Deposits Geologist with the Manitoba Geological Survey, held various academic roles in
Canadian universities, and was the technical lead on a multi-year mineral potential study funded by the Ontario Geological Survey. He has authored numerous public presentations and government and academic publications addressing his area of
specialization. |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Vice President, Exploration, North American Palladium Ltd. |
|
|
|
|
|
Tess Lofsky
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary |
|
Ms. Lofsky joined the Company in June 2010 as Corporate Counsel and was appointed Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
in December 2012. Prior to joining NAP, Ms. Lofsky worked as a lawyer in the corporate law department of Stikeman Elliott LLP, with a particular emphasis on mining. Ms. Lofsky has worked on a number of transactions, including equity and debt
financings, mergers and acquisitions and other mining transactions. She has also had significant involvement in development projects and regional exploration initiatives. Ms. Lofsky holds an Hon B.Soc.Sc. from the University of Ottawa and an LL.B
from Queens University, and is a member of the Law Society of Upper Canada. |
|
|
Principal Occupation |
|
Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, North American Palladium Ltd. |
Security Holdings
As of the date hereof, the number of Common Shares beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, or over which control or direction is exercised,
by all directors and senior officers of the Company is approximately 549,253, which is less than 1% of the Common Shares issued and outstanding.
Cease Trade Orders, Bankruptcies, Penalties or Sanctions
Robert J. Quinn was a director of Mercator Minerals Ltd. (Mercator). In early 1998, Mercator, through its then
management, filed a registration statement under the US Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act) with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC),
50
which became effective in 1998. Mercators subsequent management and directors (including Mr. Quinn) were not aware that the registration statement had become effective and,
accordingly, no further filings were made with the SEC. In June 2011, Mercator received a notice from the SEC advising that its registration had become effective in 1998 and that Mercator had an obligation to file periodic reports with the SEC. In
view of the fact that Mercator was not able to make the filings for the period from 1998 to 2011, Mercator negotiated with the SEC and on November 8, 2011 an order (the 120 Order) was issued under Section 120 of the
Exchange Act, revoking the registration of Mercator. On November 8, 2011, Mercator filed a Form 40-F registration statement under the provisions of the Exchange Act with the SEC, which, when effective, would remove the restrictions caused by
the 120 Order, so that trading of Mercators common shares in the United States could resume. The Form 40-F registration statement became effective on January 9, 2012.
Robert J. Quinn was a director of Mercator when it filed a Notice of Intention to Make a Proposal under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency
Act (Canada) (the BIA) on August 26, 2014. Mr. Quinn ceased to be a director on September 4, 2014. Pursuant to section 50.4(8) of the BIA, Mercator was deemed to have filed an assignment in bankruptcy
on September 5, 2014 as a result of allowing the ten-day period within which Mercator was required to submit a cash flow forecast to the Official Receiver to lapse.
Mr. Van Staverens consulting company, Strategic Financial Services, provided the part-time services of Mr. Van Staveren to act
as the Chief Financial Officer of Starfield Resources Inc. (Starfield) from September 14, 2007 to March 23, 2012. Approximately one year after the termination of this agreement, on March 7, 2013, Starfield filed a
Notice of Intention to Make a Proposal pursuant to the provisions of Part III of the BIA.
Conflicts of Interest
There may be potential conflicts to which the directors of the Company are subject in connection with the business and operations of the
Company. The individuals concerned are governed in any conflicts or potential conflicts by applicable law. As of the date hereof, no directors and officers of the Company hold positions with other companies that explore for or produce PGMs or have
other business interests which may potentially conflict with the interests of the Company.
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
The following is a summary of material legal proceedings of which the Company is or has been a party.
In 2000, LDI and B.R. Davidson Mining & Development Ltd. (Davidson) entered into a construction contract whereby
Davidson agreed to construct an expanded tailings management facility at the LDI Mine. LDI declared Davidson to be in default of the contract on February 2, 2001 and made a demand under a performance bond issued by AXA Pacific Insurance Company
(AXA). Davidson was the principal named in the bond and the indemnitors were B.R. Davidson Mining & Development Ltd., Atikokan Ready Mix Ltd., Blaine R. Davidson, Bruce R. Davidson and Marlene Davidson. AXA commenced an
action against the indemnitors. All of the indemnitors other than Marlene Davidson commenced a third party action against LDI, Sitka Corp., LDIs engineers, and Aon Reed Stenhouse, the bond broker. On July 2, 2014 the Company entered into
an agreement to settle the matter for $1.0 million. The first instalment of $0.5 million was paid to B.R. Davidsons counsel in trust in July, 2014 and the second to
51
sixth instalments of $0.1 million were paid to B.R. Davidsons counsel in trust in August through to December, 2014. The settlement is now final.
In 2011, a Statement of Claim was filed with the Ontario Superior Court of justice against North American Palladium Ltd. and two of its former
officers seeking leave to commence a class action lawsuit for alleged misrepresentations in the Corporations public disclosure. On June 24, 2014, the Company entered into a settlement agreement, subject to court approval. One
June 26, 2014, the settlement was paid into escrow by the Companys insurer. The settlement was approved by the court on September 16, 2014. There was no admission of wrongdoing by the Company or any of its officers and directors.
From time to time, the Company is involved in other litigation, investigations or proceedings related to claims arising out of its
operations in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of the Companys management, these other claims and lawsuits individually and in the aggregate, even if adversely settled, would not be expected to have a material effect on the
results of operations or financial condition of the Company and would not exceed ten percent of the current assets of the Company.
INTERESTS OF MANAGEMENT AND OTHERS IN MATERIAL TRANSACTIONS
No director, executive officer, shareholder owning, directly or indirectly, or exercising control or direction over, 10% or more of the voting
securities of the Company or any associate or affiliate of any of the foregoing has or had a material interest, direct or indirect in any transaction since January 1, 2011 that has materially affected or will materially affect the Company.
TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR
Computershare Investor Services Inc. is the registrar and transfer agent of the Common Shares in Canada, and Computershare Trust Company, N.A.
is the co-transfer agent for the Common Shares in the United States. Computershare Trust Company of Canada is the transfer agent for the 2012 Debentures, the Series 1 and Series 2 Debentures in Canada, and the Series 2 Warrants. Computershare Trust
Company, N.A. is the co-transfer agent for the Series 1 and Series 2 Debentures in the United States. The Company acts as the transfer agent for the Series 1 Warrants.
MATERIAL CONTRACTS
Except for the agreements listed below, the Company has not entered into any material contracts, other than in the ordinary course of
business:
|
(a) |
The smelting and refining agreement with Vale dated May 3, 2012 described in the section titled Description of the Business and General Developments The Lac des Iles Property Mining
Operations; |
|
(b) |
The convertible debenture indenture dated as of July 31, 2012 between the Company and Computershare in respect of the Companys issuance of 43,000 convertible debentures for gross proceeds of $43 million;
|
|
(c) |
The loan agreement dated June 7, 2013 between the Company, Brookfield and LDI, as amended on November 29, 2013, and as further amended on October 30, 2014, described in the section titled
Description of the Business and General Developments 2013; and |
52
|
(d) |
The convertible debenture indenture dated January 31, 2014, the first supplemental indenture dated January 31, 2014, and the second supplemental indenture dated April 11, 2014 all between the Company and
Computershare in respect of the Series 1 and Series 2 Debentures; and the warrant indenture dated April 11, 2014 between the Company and Computershare. |
INTERESTS OF EXPERTS
Some of the information relating to the Companys LDI property in this AIF has been derived from the PEA prepared by the following
Qualified Persons: David Peck, Denis Decharte, David Penna, Chris Roney, Brian Young, Rob Duinker and Babak Houdeh and has been included in reliance on such persons expertise. Each of these individuals is a Qualified Person as such
term is defined in NI 43-101 and, with the exception of David Peck, David Penna and Denis Decharte, who are employees of the Company and Chris Roney who is a private consultant engaged by the Company, is independent from the Company.
None of David Peck, Denis Decharte, David Penna, Chris Roney, Brian Young, Rob Duinker and Babak Houdeh, each being persons who have prepared
or supervised the preparation of reports relating to the Companys mineral properties, or any director, officer, employee or partner thereof, as applicable, received or has received a direct or indirect interest in the property of the Company
or of any associate or affiliate of the Company. To the knowledge of the Company, as at the date hereof, the aforementioned persons and persons at the companies specified above who participated in the preparation of such reports, as a group,
beneficially own, directly or indirectly, less than one percent of the outstanding securities of the Company.
Other than as indicated
above, neither the aforementioned persons, nor any director, officer, employee or partner, as applicable, of the aforementioned companies or partnerships, is currently expected to be elected, appointed or employed as a director, officer or employee
of the Company or of any associate or affiliate of the Company.
KPMG LLP are the auditors of the Company and have confirmed that they are
independent with respect to the Company within the meaning of the relevant rules and related interpretations prescribed by the relevant professional bodies in Canada and any applicable legislation or regulation, and that they are independent
accountants with respect to the Company under all relevant US professional and regulatory standards.
RISK FACTORS
NAPs business is exploration, development and operation of mining properties. The risk factors below could materially affect the
Companys business, operating results and financial condition, or the trading price of the Companys securities. The risk factors described below are not the only risks and uncertainties that the Company faces. Additional risks and
uncertainties not presently known to the Company or that the Company considers immaterial may also materially and adversely affect its business operations.
Commodity price fluctuations.
The
Companys financial results are directly related to commodity prices as its revenues are derived from sales of palladium, and to a lesser extent, platinum, gold, nickel and copper produced from the LDI Mine. Commodity prices can fluctuate
widely and are affected by numerous factors beyond the
53
Companys control, including production at other mines, supply from recycling, producer hedging activities, the state of the automotive industry, other production and investor demands and
overall political and economic conditions. The price of palladium is affected by global supply and demand for the commodity, and the availability and cost of substitutes for palladium, such as platinum, and supply from Russia and South Africa, the
two major PGM producing countries. An increased supply of palladium or platinum from Russia or South Africa could have a negative impact on the price of palladium. Further, the prices of palladium and platinum have on occasion been subject to very
rapid short-term changes because of the smaller size of the market relative to other metals. The aggregate effect of these factors is impossible to predict.
If the price of palladium drops, this will adversely affect the Companys financial performance and results of operations. Historically,
changes in the market price of palladium have significantly impacted the Companys profitability and the trading price of the Common Shares.
Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates in relation to the U.S. dollar.
Changes in the CAD/US exchange rate significantly affect the Companys financial and operating results and cash flows, as the
Companys revenues and debt are denominated in US dollars but most of its operating and capital costs are incurred in CAD. As a result, a strengthening CAD relative to the US dollar will result in reduced profit or increased losses for the
Company. A weakening CAD relative to the US dollar will result in reduced shareholders equity. The CAD/US exchange rate has varied significantly over the past year. From time to time, the Company may engage in hedging activities to manage its
exposure related to changes in exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, but those hedging activities may not be successful in mitigating the Companys exposure to those changes. There can be no assurance that future foreign exchange
fluctuations will not materially adversely affect the Companys financial performance and results of operations.
In addition,
changes in currency exchange rates, and particularly a significant weakening of the South African rand or the Russian ruble relative to the US dollar, could reduce relative costs of production and improve the competitive cost position of South
African or Russian PGM producers.
The Company will require substantial additional financing to fund long-term investment capital requirements.
Based on managements preliminary internal review, significant additional capital expenditures will be required for the Phase
2 Expansion at depth. The Companys management currently believes that the Phase 2 Expansion may help to satisfy the Companys financial obligations and improve its long-term profitability. Additional diamond drilling followed by
appropriate technical studies are required in order to ensure the best business case for deepening the shaft and developing the mine at depth.
Capital expenditures associated with the Phase 2 Expansion will require significant additional financing. There can be no assurance that
additional financing will be available to the Company when needed or on terms acceptable to the Company. In addition, the consent of the lenders under the Companys then existing debt facilities may be required for any such financing
transaction. There can be no assurance that such consents would be obtained.
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The Companys inability to obtain additional financing could severely limit the
Companys long-term profitability, and the Company may be forced to pursue strategic alternatives which may include, among other things, restructuring or refinancing its indebtedness.
The Company currently has a substantial amount of indebtedness and significant interest payment requirements.
The Company currently has a substantial amount of indebtedness and significant interest payment requirements. This substantial degree of
leverage could have important consequences, including the following:
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it may limit the Companys ability to obtain additional debt or equity financing, or limit the Companys ability to obtain such financing on acceptable terms; |
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a substantial portion of the Companys cash flows from operations will be dedicated to the payment of principal and interest on indebtedness and will not be available for other purposes; |
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the debt service requirements could make it more difficult to satisfy the Companys other financial obligations; |
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the value of the Companys securities could decline; and |
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certain of the Companys borrowings, including borrowings under the Credit Facility, are at variable rates of interest, exposing it to the risk of increased interest rates. |
The Company may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all of its indebtedness and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy its
obligations under its indebtedness.
The Companys ability to make scheduled payments of interest and principal on its
outstanding indebtedness or to refinance its debt obligations depends on its financial and operating performance, which is subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to certain financial, business and other factors beyond its
control. There can be no assurance that the Company will generate sufficient cash flow from operating activities to make its scheduled repayments of principal, interest, and any applicable premiums.
The Company may be forced to pursue strategic alternatives such as reduce or delay capital expenditures, sell assets or operations, seek
additional capital or restructure or refinance its indebtedness. No assurances can be made that the Company would be able to take any of these actions, that these actions would be successful, or that these actions would be permitted under the terms
of existing or future debt agreements, including the Credit Facility and the Brookfield Debt. The Credit Facility and the Brookfield Debt currently restrict the Companys ability to dispose of assets and use the proceeds from such dispositions
and, accordingly, the Company may not be able to dispose of assets or to obtain or use the proceeds of dispositions.
If the Company
cannot make scheduled payments on its debt, or comply with its covenants, it will be in default of such indebtedness and, as a result:
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holders of such debt could declare all outstanding principal and interest to be due and payable; |
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the lenders under the Credit Facility could terminate their commitments to lend the Company money; |
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the holders of the Companys secured debt could realize upon the assets securing their borrowings; |
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the Company would cross-default under certain material agreements; |
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the Company could become the subject of restructuring, insolvency, bankruptcy or liquidation proceedings; and |
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the value of the Companys securities could decline. |
The Credit Facility, the 2012 Debentures, the
Series 1 and Series 2 Debentures and the Brookfield Debt provide for events of default, some of which may be beyond the Companys control.
The Credit Facility provides the Company with liquidity for day-to-day operations. The Credit Facility, the 2012 Debentures, the Series 1 and
Series 2 Debentures and the Brookfield Debt contain certain events of default, some of which may be beyond the Companys control, the occurrence of which could require the Company to pay back immediately all amounts outstanding under the Credit
Facility, the 2012 Debentures, the Series 1 and Series 2 Debentures, or the Brookfield Debt, as applicable.
The Brookfield Debt and the
Credit Facility each require the Company to maintain a maximum senior debt to EBITDA ratio effective as of the fourth quarter of 2014. In October 2014, the maximum EBITDA Ratio permitted is 12:1, which falls to 10:1, 9:1, 8:1, and 7:1 over the next
four subsequent months respectively, to 6:1 for an additional two months, to 5:1 for the following three months and to 4:1 thereafter. If the Companys EBITDA is not sufficient, or if the Companys senior debt increases, the Company may
not be able to satisfy the EBITDA Ratio. EBITDA in this AIF has the meaning set forth in each of the Brookfield Debt or Credit Facility as applicable. See Risk Factors The Company may be required to record impairment charges which may
adversely affect financial results and could cause the Company to breach its covenants under the Brookfield Debt and the Credit Facility.
Under the Brookfield Debt and the Credit Facility, the Company is required to maintain a minimum of $200 million in shareholders equity.
As at December 31, 2014, the Companys total shareholders equity was approximately $224 million. If the Company incurs losses in the future or is required to take an impairment charge that would cause the Companys
shareholders equity to fall below $200 million, the Company would be in breach of the Brookfield Debt and the Credit Facility and the respective lenders thereunder may declare a default and accelerate amounts owing and/or enforce their other
rights as a creditor, including realizing on their security. An impairment charge would also adversely affect the Companys financial results.
Upon the occurrence of an event of default under the Credit Facility or the Brookfield Debt, the holders of such debt could proceed against
the collateral granted to them to secure that indebtedness, which collateral represents substantially all of the Companys and its subsidiaries assets. If the holders of the Companys debt accelerate the repayment of borrowings, no
assurance can be made that the Company will have sufficient cash flow or assets to repay its debt or will be able to raise sufficient funds to refinance such indebtedness. Even if the Company is able to obtain new financing, it may not be on
commercially reasonable terms, or acceptable terms.
Inherent risks and hazards associated with exploration, mining and processing pose operational
and environmental risks.
Exploration, mining and processing operations involve many risks and hazards, including, among others:
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metallurgical and other processing problems; |
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unusual and unexpected rock formations; |
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ground or slope failures or underground cave-ins; |
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environmental contamination; |
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flooding and periodic interruptions due to inclement or hazardous weather conditions or other acts of nature; |
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organized labour disputes or work slow-downs; |
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mechanical equipment failure and facility performance problems; and |
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the availability of critical materials, equipment and skilled labour. |
These risks could
result in: damage to, or destruction of, the Companys properties or production facilities; personal injury or death; environmental damage; delays in mining or processing; increased production costs; asset write downs; monetary losses; and
legal liability.
In previous years, the Company has experienced significant water flows onto its properties as a result of weather
conditions in northern Ontario. The Company may be required to store water in underground areas, limiting its ability to operate in those areas. Production and capital development could be delayed if the Corporation cannot operate in necessary areas
as a result of such flooding, which could cause the Company to miss production targets and to lose revenue. The Company may also incur additional costs as a result of such flooding, both in dealing with excess water and in remediating any damage
resulting from flooding.
The Company cannot be certain that its insurance will cover all of the risks associated with mining and
processing or that it will be able to maintain insurance to cover these risks at economically feasible rates. The Company may also become subject to liability for hazards against which it cannot insure or against which the Company has elected not to
insure because of high premium costs, commercial impracticality or other reasons. Such events could result in a prolonged interruption in operations that would have a negative effect on the Companys ability to generate revenues, profits and
cash flow. Losses from such events may increase costs and decrease profitability.
Failure to effectively manage the Companys tailings
facilities could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
Managing the tailings produced by the LDI Mine is integral to
production. The Company is in the process of finalizing a design that addresses tailings requirements for the foreseeable future. The Company expects to begin implementation of the solution in the first half of 2015. LDI will be submitting a Closure
Plan Amendment for the TMF expansion. If the Company does not receive regulatory approval for new or expanded tailings facilities on a timely basis, palladium production could be constrained or suspended.
The Company is required to obtain and renew licensing and permits, which is often a costly and time-consuming process.
Throughout the normal course of business, the Company is required to obtain and renew permits (including environmental permits) for
exploration, operations and expansion of existing
57
operations or for the development of new projects. Obtaining or renewing governmental permits is a complex and time-consuming process. The duration and success of permitting efforts are
contingent upon many variables not within the Companys control, including the interpretation of requirements implemented by the applicable permitting authority.
The Company may not be able to obtain or renew permits that are necessary for existing operations, additional permits for possible future
changes including the Closure Plan Amendment for the TMF expansion, or additional permits associated with new legislation. The cost to obtain or renew permits may exceed the Companys expectations. Any unexpected delays or costs associated with
the permitting process could delay the development or impede the operation of a mine, which could materially adversely affect the Companys revenues and future growth.
Additionally, it is possible that previously issued permits may become suspended for a variety of reasons, including through government or
court action. There can be no assurance that the Company will continue to hold or obtain, if required to, all permits necessary to develop or continue operating the property.
There can be no assurance that delays or objections will not occur in connection with obtaining any necessary renewals of permits for the
existing operations or additional permits or authorizations for any possible future changes to operations at LDI.
Inability to renew the collective
agreement on acceptable terms could have a material adverse effect on the Company.
The Companys collective agreement with
the United Steelworkers of America, the union representing the hourly employees at the LDI Mine, expires on May 31, 2015. The inability to renew the agreement on acceptable terms could have a material adverse effect on the Company. In addition,
work stoppages or strikes at the LDI Mine could have a material adverse effect on the results of operations and financial performance of the Company.
Uncertainty related to First Nations rights and title in Ontario may create delays or interruptions.
The nature and extent of First Nations rights and title remains the subject of active debate, claims, and litigation in Ontario. There can be
no guarantee that the unsettled nature of First Nations rights and title in Ontario will not create delays in permit approval including the Closure Plan Amendment for the TMF expansion, unexpected interruptions in operations or development projects,
or result in additional costs. In many cases mine construction and mining activities is only possible with consultation with local First Nations groups.
Deterioration of economic conditions will adversely impact the Companys revenues.
The deterioration of economic conditions generally could negatively impact the Companys business in several ways. For instance, in recent
years, financial conditions have been characterized by market volatility, tight credit markets and reduced consumer confidence and business activity, which have negatively impacted the Companys revenues and the market price of the Common
Shares.
In addition, a prolonged or significant global economic contraction could put downward pressure on market prices of PGMs,
particularly if demand for PGMs decline in connection with
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consumer demand, since PGMs are used in the production of items such as automobiles, electronics and jewellery.
In addition, some purchasers of PGMs, such as automobile manufacturers, could experience serious cash flow problems due to deteriorating
global capital markets. Approximately half of global demand of palladium and platinum is for the manufacture of automotive catalytic converters. Auto companies and other PGM purchasers may be forced to reduce their product lines or production, shut
down their operations or file for bankruptcy protection, which would have a material adverse effect on the Companys business.
Inability to
meet production level and operating cost estimates.
Planned production levels, capital expenditures and operating costs are
estimates, which are based on technical studies as well as the Companys experience in operating the LDI Mine. All of the Companys estimates are subject to numerous uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Companys control. The
Companys ability to achieve or maintain projected production at the LDI Mine is uncertain due to the fact that the Companys production decisions are not based on feasibility studies of mineral reserves demonstrating economic viability.
In addition, the Company may have difficulties attracting and maintaining a sufficient number of qualified workers to meet projected production levels. The Company cannot give assurances that its actual production levels will not be substantially
lower than its estimates or that its capital expenditures and operating costs will not be materially higher than anticipated. Failure to meet production levels and operating costs estimates could adversely affect the Companys financial
performance and results of operations.
Concentrate marketing and transportation risk.
The Company has a smelter agreement with Vale, which provides for the smelting and refining of the metals contained in the concentrates
produced at the LDI property. The agreement expires on June 30, 2015. NAP is in discussion with a number of smelters regarding processing of its concentrate and expects to enter into agreements with one or more smelters in the first half of
2015. The termination of the agreement or the failure to renew the agreement on acceptable terms, or at all, could have a material adverse effect on the Companys financial performance and results of operations until such time as alternative
smelting and refining arrangements could be made or alternative purchasers of the Companys concentrates could be found. If the Company is required to make alternative arrangements for smelting and refining, or to find alternative purchasers,
there can be no assurance that such arrangements would be on terms as favourable to the Company as its existing smelter agreement.
Concentrates produced at the LDI Mine are loaded onto highway road vehicles for transport to the Vale smelter. In the future, concentrates
could be transported to sea ports for export to foreign smelters in markets such as South Africa and Europe. The Company could be subject to potential increases in road and maritime transportation charges and treatment and refining charges.
Transportation of such concentrate is also subject to numerous risks including, but not limited to, delays in delivery of shipments, road blocks, weather conditions and environmental liabilities in the event of an accident or spill. There is no
assurance that transportation contracts for the concentrates will be entered into on acceptable terms or at all.
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NAP could also be subject to limited smelter availability and capacity and could face the risk of
a potential interruption of business from a third party beyond its control, which could have a material adverse effect on the Companys operations and revenues.
Expansion of the LDI Mine involves significant risks.
Additional diamond drilling and appropriate technical studies are required in order to determine the economic viability and capital cost of
expansion projects including the Open Pit Expansion and Phase 2 Expansion of the mine at depth. The results of the additional drilling and studies are uncertain and, if the results of such drilling and/or studies are unfavourable, the Company may
need to find alternative sources of long-term production.
There is significant risk involved in all expansion projects. Project delays
may adversely affect expected revenues and cost overruns may adversely affect project economics. In addition, completed expansion projects may not operate as expected by the Company, or result in the achievement of targeted operational results. The
Companys ability to execute on its development projects on time and on budget depends on many factors beyond the Companys control, including the availability of equipment and personnel, access, weather, accidents, equipment breakdown,
the need for government and regulatory approvals and unexpected or uncontrollable increases in the costs or availability of materials. Other risks include, but are not limited to, delays in obtaining sufficient financing, as well as unforeseen
difficulties encountered during the expansion process including labour disputes or opposition by First Nations to the expansion and other risks that generally apply to the Company.
Calculation of mineral reserves, mineral resources and metal recovery are only estimates, and there can be no assurance about the quantity and grade of
minerals until the metals are actually mined.
The calculation of mineral reserves, mineral resources and grades are merely
estimates and depend on geological interpretation and statistical inferences or assumptions drawn from drilling and sampling analysis, which might prove to be inaccurate. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated
economic viability and mineral reserve estimates are based on certain assumptions, including metal prices. Until mineral reserves or mineral resources are actually mined and processed, the quantity of reserves or resources and their respective
grades must be considered as estimates only. Any material change in the quantity of mineral reserves, mineral resources, grade or stripping ratio may affect the economic viability of the Companys operations.
The Company cannot guarantee that it will recover the indicated quantities of metals. Future production could differ dramatically from such
estimates for the following reasons:
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actual mineralization or ore grade could be different from those predicted by drilling, sampling, technical studies or technical reports; |
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resources may not be successfully converted to reserves; |
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changes in the life-of-mine plan; or |
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the grade of ore may vary over the life of the mine and the Company cannot give any assurances that any particular mineral reserve estimate will ultimately be recovered. |
The occurrence of any of these events may cause the Company to adjust its mineral resource and reserve estimates or change its mining plans,
which could negatively affect the Companys financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, short-term factors, such as the need for additional
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development of the orebody or the processing of new or different grades may adversely affect the Companys operations and results.
Decreases in the market price of palladium or other metals or changes to foreign currency exchange rates may render the mining of reserves uneconomic.
The mineral resource and reserve figures presented in this AIF are estimates, which are, in part, based on forward-looking
information, and no assurance can be given that the indicated level of palladium, platinum, gold, nickel and copper will be produced. Factors such as metal price fluctuations, changes in the CAD/US exchange rate, increased production costs and
reduced recovery rates may render the present proven and probable reserves unprofitable to develop at a particular site or sites for periods of time.
The PEA assumes the following long-term prices: US$855 per ounce for palladium, US$1,611 per ounce for platinum, US$1,275 per ounce for gold,
US$8.87 per pound for nickel, US$3.01 per pound for copper and a CDN$/US$ exchange rate of CDN$1.00 = US$1.11. Mineral reserve and resource estimates would be lower than estimated to the extent that actual metal prices are lower than assumed or the
CAD is stronger than assumed.
The Companys operations may be affected by increased demand for, and cost of, exploration, development and
construction services and equipment.
Strength of the metal market can result in an increase in exploration, development and
construction activities around the world, resulting in increased demand for, and cost of, exploration, development and construction services and equipment. The costs of such services and equipment could increase in the future, which could result in
delays or materially increased costs if services or equipment cannot be obtained in a timely manner or at acceptable prices.
Future exploration at
the LDI property or at the Companys other exploration properties may not result in increased mineral reserves or mineral resources.
As mines have a depleting asset base, the Company actively seeks to replace and expand its mineral reserves and mineral resources through
exploration and development, strategic acquisitions and joint ventures. The Company has conducted exploration programs on the LDI property and elsewhere with the objective of increasing total mineral reserves and mineral resources. Exploration for
minerals involves many risks and uncertainties and is frequently unsuccessful. Among the many uncertainties inherent in any exploration and development program are the location of mineralized zones, the development of appropriate metallurgical
processes, the receipt of necessary governmental permits to mine a deposit and the construction of mining and processing facilities. Assuming discovery of an economic mineralized zone, several years may elapse from the completion of the exploration
phase until commercial production commences and during such time the economic feasibility of production may change. There can be no assurance that the Companys current exploration and development programs will result in economically viable
mining operations or yield new mineral reserves and mineral resources to replace current mineral reserves and mineral resources. This could prevent the Company from sustaining its targeted production levels over the long term, which could impact its
ability to generate sufficient cash flows to fund its operations.
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The Companys future prospects will be negatively affected if the LDI Mine fails to achieve or
maintain projected production levels.
The Companys future prospects will be negatively affected if the LDI Mine fails to
achieve or maintain projected production levels. Unforeseen conditions or developments could arise during the ongoing development and operation of the LDI Mine or other properties, which could increase costs and adversely affect the Companys
ability to generate revenue and profits. These conditions may include, among others:
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shortages or unanticipated increases in the cost of equipment, materials or skilled labour; |
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delays in delivery of equipment or materials; |
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adverse weather conditions or natural disasters; |
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unforeseen engineering, design, environmental or geotechnical problems; and |
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unanticipated changes in the life-of-mine plan or the ultimate mine design. |
Title to the Companys
mineral properties cannot be guaranteed.
The Company cannot guarantee that title to its properties will not be challenged. The
Companys ability to ensure that it has obtained secure claim to individual mineral properties or mining concessions may be severely constrained. The Companys mineral properties may be subject to prior recorded and unrecorded agreements,
transfers or claims, and title may be affected by, among other things, undetected defects. Additionally, there can be no guarantee that potential First Nations claims to the Companys mineral properties will not create delays in project
approval, unexpected interruptions in project progress or production, or result in additional costs to advance the project. A successful challenge to the area and location of these claims could result in the Company being unable to operate on its
properties as permitted or being unable to enforce its rights with respect to its properties.
The Company is subject to extensive environmental and
other regulatory requirements.
Environmental laws and regulations affect the exploration, development, mining and processing
operations of the Company. These laws and regulations set various standards regulating the environment and require the Company to obtain various operating approvals and licenses. Environmental legislation generally provides for restrictions and
prohibitions on emissions of various substances produced in association with mining operations, such as seepage from tailings containment facilities, which could result in environmental pollution.
In addition, amendments to current laws or regulations governing mining companies, or more stringent implementation thereof, could have a
material adverse impact on the Company and cause increases in costs, reductions in levels of production or delays in the development of new mining properties. In addition to existing requirements, new environmental legislation may be implemented in
the future with the objective of further protecting human health, the environment and climate change. New environmental legislation or changes in existing environmental legislation could have a negative effect on production levels, product demand,
and methods of production and distribution. The complexity and breadth of these issues make it difficult for the Company to predict their impact.
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A breach of such legislation could result in the issuance of governmental orders, imposition of
fines and penalties and, in certain circumstances, could result in the loss of operating licenses or approvals, or the suspension of the Companys operations. Significant liabilities could be imposed for damages or clean-up costs in the event
of damage to the environment or non-compliance with environmental laws or regulations, which may have a material adverse impact on the Companys operations or financial results. If the Company fails to obtain or maintain the necessary operating
approvals or licenses it may not be able to continue its operations in its usual manner or at all.
The Company cannot give assurances
that it will at all future times be in compliance with all federal and provincial environmental legislation or that steps to bring the Company into compliance would not have a negative effect on its financial condition and results of operations.
The cost of complying with environmental legislation may be significant.
The Companys operations are subject to extensive environmental legislation. This legislation requires the Company to obtain various
operating approvals and licenses and also imposes standards and controls on activities relating to exploration, development and production. The cost to the Company of obtaining such approvals and licenses and abiding by environmental legislation,
standards and controls may be significant.
The Company will be responsible for all costs of closure and reclamation at the LDI property.
In addition, to the extent that the Companys exploration activities at other projects disturb the land or some other environmental attribute, the Company may incur clean-up and other reclamation costs at such projects. The LDI Mine closure
plan provides for approximately $14.1 million of closure and restoration costs. This obligation of the Company is secured by a letter of credit in the amount of $14.1 million. Including the Shebandowan West project, the Companys obligations
with respect to the eventual clean-up and restoration of these sites is secured by total letters of credit in the amount of $14.4 million. There can be no assurance that the closure and reclamation costs for these sites will not substantially exceed
the Companys estimates, or that letters of credit will cover these costs.
Changes in environmental legislation or in its
enforcement, new information on existing environmental conditions or other events, including changes in environmental controls or standards or in their enforcement, may increase future environmental expenditures or otherwise have a negative effect
on the Companys financial condition and results of operations.
Compliance with current and future government regulations may cause the
Company to incur significant costs.
The Companys activities are subject to extensive Canadian federal and provincial
legislation governing matters such as mine safety, occupational health, labour standards, prospecting, exploration, production, exports, explosives, management of natural resources, price controls, land use, water use, and taxes. Compliance with
applicable legislation could require the Company to make significant capital outlays. The enactment of new legislation or more stringent enforcement of current legislation may increase costs, which could have a negative effect on the Companys
financial position. The Company cannot make assurances that it will be able to adapt to these regulatory developments on a timely or cost effective basis. Violations of these laws, regulations and other regulatory requirements could lead to
substantial fines, penalties or other sanctions, including possible shut-downs of the LDI property and future operations, as applicable.
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If the Company loses key personnel or is unable to attract and retain personnel, the Companys mining
operations and prospects could be significantly harmed.
The Company is dependent upon the services of a small number of members of
senior management. The Companys current operations and its future prospects depend on the experience and knowledge of these individuals. The Company does not maintain any key person insurance. The loss of one or more of these
individuals could have a material adverse effect on the Companys mining operations and results of operations.
The Company faces competition
from other, larger suppliers of PGMs and from potential new sources of PGMs.
The Company competes globally with other PGM
producers and suppliers, some of which are significantly larger and have access to greater mineral reserves and financial resources. In addition, recycling and new mines could increase the global supply of palladium. The Company may not be
successful in competing with these existing and emerging PGM producers and suppliers.
Current and future litigation and regulatory proceedings may
impact the revenue and profits of the Company.
The Company may be subject to civil claims (including class action claims) based on
allegations of negligence, breach of statutory duty, public nuisance or private nuisance or otherwise in connection with its operations or investigations relating thereto. Potential liability may be covered in whole or in part by insurance; however
such liability may be material to the Company and may materially adversely affect its ability to continue operations.
In addition, the
Company may be subject to actions or related investigations by governmental or regulatory authorities in connection with its activities at the LDI property or its other properties. Such actions may include prosecution for breach of relevant
legislation or failure to comply with the terms of the Companys licenses and permits and may result in liability for pollution, other fines or penalties, revocations of consents, permits, approvals or licenses or similar actions, which could
be material and may impact the results of operations of the Company. The Companys current insurance coverage may not be adequate to cover any or all of the potential losses, liabilities and damages that could result from the civil and/or
regulatory actions referred to above, or the Company may elect not to insure against such risks.
The development of new technology or new alloys
could reduce the demand for palladium and platinum.
Demand for palladium and platinum may be reduced if manufacturers in the
automotive, electronics and dental industries find substitutes for palladium or platinum. The development of a substitute alloy or synthetic material which has catalytic characteristics similar to PGMs could result in a decrease in demand for
palladium and platinum. Furthermore, if the automotive industry were to develop automobiles that do not require catalytic converters, such as pure electric vehicles, it could significantly reduce the demand for palladium and platinum. High prices
for palladium or platinum would create an incentive for the development of substitutes. Any such developments could have a material adverse effect on the Companys financial condition and results of operations.
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The Companys hedging activities could expose it to losses.
From time to time, the Company may engage in hedging activities to manage its exposure related to currencies, interest rates and commodity
prices. While hedging related to realized metal prices may protect the Company against low metal prices, it may also limit the price the Company can receive on hedged products. As a result, the Company may be prevented from realizing possible
revenues in the event that the market price of a metal or currency exceeds the price stated in a forward sale or call option contract. In addition, the Company may experience losses if a counterparty fails to purchase under a contract when the
contract price exceeds the spot price of a commodity.
Lack of infrastructure could impact operations, or delay or prevent the Company from
developing its projects.
Operations and the completion of development projects is subject to various requirements, including the
availability and timing of acceptable arrangements for electricity or other sources of power, water and transportation facilities. The lack of availability on acceptable terms or the delay in the availability of any one or more of these items could
impact operations or prevent or delay development projects. If adequate infrastructure is not available in a timely manner, there can be no assurance that:
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operations will achieve the anticipated costs or production volumes; |
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development projects will be completed on a timely basis, if at all; or |
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the ongoing costs associated with development of the Companys advanced projects will not be higher than anticipated. |
The Company may fail to achieve and maintain adequate internal control over financial reporting pursuant to the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
and equivalent Canadian legislation.
The Company documented and tested, during its fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, its
internal control procedures in order to satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) and equivalent Canadian legislation. Both SOX and Canadian legislation require management to assess annually the
effectiveness of the Companys internal control over financial reporting (ICFR).
The Company may fail to maintain
the adequacy of its ICFR as such standards are modified, supplemented or amended from time to time, and the Company may not be able to ensure that it can conclude, on an ongoing basis, that it has effective ICFR in accordance with Section 404
of SOX and equivalent Canadian legislation. The Companys failure to satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of SOX and equivalent Canadian legislation on an ongoing, timely basis could result in the loss of investor confidence in the
reliability of its financial statements, which in turn could harm the Companys business and negatively impact the trading price of the Common Shares or the market value of its other securities. In addition, any failure to implement required
new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could harm the Companys operating results or cause it to fail to meet its reporting obligations. Future acquisitions of companies, if any, may provide the Company
with challenges in implementing the required processes, procedures and controls in its acquired operations. No evaluation can provide complete assurance that the Companys ICFR will detect or uncover all failures of persons within the Company
to disclose material information otherwise required to be reported. The effectiveness of the Companys processes, procedures and controls could also be limited by simple errors or faulty judgments. In addition, if the Company expands, the
challenges involved in
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implementing appropriate ICFR will increase and will require that the Company continue to improve its ICFR.
Difficulty of investors in the United States to enforce civil liabilities against the Company based solely upon the federal securities laws of the
United States.
The Company is a Canadian corporation, with its principal place of business in Canada. A majority of the
Companys directors and officers and some or all of the experts named in this AIF are residents of Canada and all of the Companys assets and a significant portion of the assets of some or all of the Companys directors and officers
and the experts named in this AIF are located outside the United States. Consequently, it may be difficult for U.S. investors to effect service of process within the United States upon the Company or its directors or officers or such experts who are
not residents of the United States, or to realize in the United States upon judgments of courts of the United States predicated upon civil liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Investors should not assume that Canadian courts
(1) would enforce judgments of U.S. courts obtained in actions against the Company or such directors, officers or experts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws or the securities or blue
sky laws of any state within the United States or (2) would enforce, in original actions, liabilities against the Company or such directors, officers or experts predicated upon the U.S. federal securities laws or any such state securities
or blue sky laws. In addition, the protections afforded by Canadian securities laws may not be available to investors in the United States.
AUDIT COMMITTEE INFORMATION
Audit
Committee Mandate
The Audit Committee is responsible for assessing the performance of the Companys auditors and for
reviewing the Companys financial reporting and internal controls. The Committee has adopted a mandate, ratified by the Board, which describes roles and responsibilities of the members of the Committee.
The Mandate of the Audit Committee is set out in full beginning on page 69.
Composition of the Audit Committee
The Audit Committee comprises Messrs. Van Staveren (Chair), Hills and Jentz.
Relevant Education and Experience
Messrs. Van Staveren, Hills and Jentz are independent as such term is defined in NI 52-110 Audit Committees and are financially
literate. Each of the members has the requisite qualification to serve on the Audit Committee. Mr. Van Staveren has received a CA and a CPA designation and was a former partner at KPMG LLP. Mr. Jentz has received a CA designation.
Mr. Hills has had extensive management and board experience in the mining industry.
Audit Committee Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures
All audit and non-audit services performed by the Companys external auditors are pre-approved by the Audit Committee.
66
External Auditor Service Fees
Audit Fees
The aggregate fees
billed by KPMG LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, the Companys external auditors for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, for audit fees, including professional services that are normally provided by the external
auditors in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for such years were $688,000 and $508,500 respectively.
Audit-Related
Fees
The aggregate fees billed by KPMG for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 for assurance and related
services rendered by it that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Companys financial statements for that year were $70,000 and $49,000, respectively. In 2014, these fees were paid for services rendered in
connection with French translation services for various documents including quarterly financial statements and MD&A. In 2013, these fees were paid for services rendered in connection with French translation services for various documents
including quarterly financial statements and MD&A.
Tax Fees
The aggregate fees billed by KPMG for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 for professional services rendered by it for tax
compliance, tax advice, tax planning and other services were $35,000 and $73,600, respectively. In 2014, such fees were paid for the preparation of federal/provincial tax returns and other tax advisory services. In 2013, such fees were paid for the
preparation of federal/provincial tax returns and other tax compliance and tax advisory services.
All Other Fees
The aggregate fees billed by KPMG for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, other than for the services reported in the
preceding three paragraphs, were $nil and $nil, respectively.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
We are required to file with the securities commission or authority in each of the applicable provinces of Canada annual and quarterly
reports, material change reports and other information. In addition, we are subject to the informational requirements of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the Exchange Act), and in accordance
with the Exchange Act, we also file reports with, and furnish other information to, the SEC. Under a multijurisdictional disclosure system adopted by the United States, these reports and other information (including financial information) may be
prepared in accordance with the disclosure requirements of Canada, which differ in certain respects from those in the United States. As a foreign private issuer, we are exempt from the rules under the Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and
content of proxy statements, and our officers, directors and principal shareholders are exempt from the reporting and short swing profit recovery provisions contained in Section 16 of the Exchange Act. In addition, we are not required to
publish financial statements as promptly as U.S. companies.
67
You may read any document we file with or furnish to the securities commissions and authorities
of the provinces of Canada through SEDAR and any document we file with or furnish to the SEC at the SECs public reference room at Station Place, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. You may also obtain copies of the same documents from
the public reference room of the SEC at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20549 by paying a fee. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the public reference rooms. Certain of our filings are also available
electronically on EDGAR, and which may be accessed at www.sec.gov, as well as from commercial document retrieval services.
Additional information, including directors and officers remuneration and indebtedness, principal holders of the Companys
securities and securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans, is contained in the Companys management information circular for its most recent annual meeting of securityholders that involved the election of directors. As
well, additional financial information is provided in the Companys annual financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2014 and managements discussion and analysis of operations and financial results.
68
MANDATE OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE
Composition
The Audit Committee shall consist of
a minimum of three directors of the Company.
|
1. |
The Audit Committee shall be comprised entirely of independent directors, as such term is defined by applicable laws and related rules and regulations, and rules of relevant stock exchanges (collectively referred to as
Applicable Laws). For clarity, US Applicable Laws means laws applicable to SEC registrants that are foreign private issuers. |
|
2. |
A member is only exempt from the independence requirements if permitted by Applicable Laws. The appointment of a non-independent director shall be disclosed in the next proxy circular mailed to shareholders. If there is
reliance on curing provisions, notice shall be given to the stock exchanges immediately upon learning of the circumstances that resulted in the non-compliance. |
|
3. |
A quorum for the transaction of business at all meetings of the Audit Committee shall be a majority of members. |
Independent Directors
A director
is considered independent for the purposes of this policy if such director satisfies the requirements of outside and unrelated prescribed by the TSX. Notwithstanding the foregoing, directors
appointed to the Audit Committee shall meet the standards prescribed by both the TSX and the NYSE MKT. Prescribed period means the period prescribed by law and currently under the Canadian Multilateral Instrument 52-110 under the
NYSE MKT rules it is three years.
A director shall be considered independent if he or she meets the following requirements:
|
a) |
A member of an audit committee is independent if the member has no direct or indirect material relationship with the issuer. |
|
b) |
For the purposes of subsection a), a material relationship means a relationship which could, in the view of the issuers board of directors, reasonably interfere with the exercise of a members independent
judgement. |
|
c) |
Despite subsection b), the following individuals are considered to have a material relationship with an issuer: |
|
i. |
An individual who is, or has been, an employee or executive officer of the issuer (or any of its affiliates), unless the prescribed period has elapsed since the end of the service of employment; |
|
ii. |
An individual whose immediate family member is, or has been, an employee or executive officer of the issuer (or any of its affiliates), unless the prescribed period has elapsed since the end of the service of
employment; |
|
iii. |
An individual who is, or has been, an affiliated entity of, a partner of, or employed by, a current or former internal or external auditor of the issuer, unless the prescribed period has elapsed since the persons
relationship with the internal or external auditor, or the auditing relationship, has ended; |
|
iv. |
An individual whose immediate family member is, or has been, an affiliated entity of, a partner of, or employed in a professional capacity by, a current or former internal or external auditor of the issuer, unless the
prescribed period has elapsed since the persons relationship with the internal or external auditor, or the auditing relationship, has ended; |
69
|
v. |
An individual who is, or has been, or whose immediate family member is or has been, employed as an executive officer of an entity if any of the issuers current executives serve on the entitys compensation
committee, unless the prescribed period has elapsed since the end of the service or employment; |
|
vi. |
An individual who: (a) has a relationship with the issuer pursuant to which the individual may accept, directly or indirectly, any consulting, advisory or other compensatory fee from the issuer or any subsidiary
entity of the issuer, other than as remuneration for acting in his or her capacity as a member of the board of directors, or any board committee or as part-time chair or vice chair of the board or any board committee; and (b) receives, or whose
immediate family member receives, more than $75,000 per year (or US$60,000 whichever is less) in direct compensation from the issuer, other than as remuneration for acting in his or her capacity as a member of the board of directors or any board
committee or as part-time chair or vice chair of the board or any board committee, unless the prescribed period has elapsed since he or she ceased to receive more than $75,000 per year (or US$60,000 whichever is less) in such compensation;
|
|
vii. |
An individual who is an affiliated entity of the issuer or any of its subsidiary entities; |
|
viii. |
A person who is, or has a family member who is, a partner in, or a controlling shareholder or an executive officer of, any organization to which the issuer made, or from which the issuer received, payments for property
or services in the current or any of the past three fiscal years that exceed 5% of the recipients consolidated gross revenues for that year, or US$200,000, whichever is more, other than the following: |
|
a. |
Payments arising solely from investments in the issuers securities; or |
|
b. |
Payments under non-discretionary charitable contribution matching programs; or |
|
c. |
A person who has participated in the preparation of the financial statements of the issuer or any current subsidiary of the issuer and any time during the past three years. |
Qualifications and Experience
At the time of
appointment or within a reasonable period of time following appointment, each member of the Committee must be financially literate, meaning the member has the ability to read and understand a set of financial statements that present the breadth and
level of complexity or accounting issues that are generally comparable to the breadth and complexity of the issues that can be reasonably be expected to be raised by the Companys financial statements.
|
1. |
At least one member (the financial expert) of the Committee must have: |
|
a) |
An understanding of financial statements and accounting principles used by the Company to prepare its financial statements; |
|
b) |
The ability to assess the general application of such accounting principles in connection with the accounting for estimates, accruals and reserves; |
|
c) |
Experience preparing, auditing, analyzing or evaluating financial statements that present a breadth and level of complexity of accounting issues that are generally comparable to the breadth and complexity of issues that
can reasonably be expected to be raised by the Companys financial statements, or experience actively supervising one or more persons engaged in such activities; |
|
d) |
An understanding of internal controls and procedures for financial reporting; and |
|
e) |
An understanding of audit committee functions. |
|
2. |
The financial expert must have acquired the foregoing attributes through one or more of the following: |
70
|
a) |
Education and experience as a principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller, public accountant or auditor or experience in one or more positions that involve the performance of similar functions;
|
|
b) |
Experience actively supervising a principal financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller, public accountant, auditor or person performing similar functions; |
|
c) |
Experience overseeing or assessing the performance of companies or public accountants with respect to the preparation, auditing or evaluation of financial statements; or |
|
d) |
Other relevant experience. |
Mandate and Responsibilities
The Audit Committee shall:
|
1. |
Review and assess the adequacy of the Audit Committee mandate on an annual basis; |
|
2. |
Meet with the Companys external auditors as necessary and before the submission of the audited annual financial statements to the Board and communicate to external auditors that they are ultimately accountable to
the Board and the Audit Committee as representatives of shareholders; |
|
3. |
Review the annual financial statements of the Company and managements discussion and analysis and recommend the financial statements for approval to the Board; |
|
4. |
Review and approve interim financial statements of the Company and managements discussion and analysis prior to filing with the securities regulatory authorities and delivery to shareholders;
|
|
5. |
Obtain explanations from management on all the significant variances between comparative reporting periods and, in respect of the annual financial statements, question management and the external auditor regarding the
significant financial reporting issues discussed during the fiscal period and the method of resolution; |
|
a) |
Ensuring that a written statement is obtained from the external auditor describing all relationships between the external auditor and the Company; |
|
b) |
Discussing with the external auditor any disclosed relationships or services that may impact the objectivity and independence of the external auditor; and |
|
c) |
Determining that the external auditors have a process in place to address the rotation of the lead partner and other audit partners serving the account as required under Canadian independence standards and the SEC
independence rules, as applicable to foreign private issuers. |
|
7. |
Assess the performance of the external auditors and recommend to the Board annually or as they may otherwise determine a duly qualified external auditor to be nominated (for appointment or retention) for the purpose of
preparing or issuing an audit report or performing other audit, review or attest services for the Company; |
|
8. |
Review the plan and scope of the audit to be conducted by the internal (if any) and external auditors of the Company; |
|
9. |
Approve, or recommend to the Board for approval, the compensation of the external auditors; |
|
10. |
Directly oversee the work of the external auditors, including reviewing the Companys critical accounting policies and practices, material alternative accounting treatments and material written communications
between the external auditors and management, and the resolution of disagreements between management and the external auditor regarding financial reporting; |
71
|
11. |
Pre-approve all audit and permitted non-audit services to be provided to the Company or its subsidiary entities by its external auditors or the external auditors of the Companys subsidiary, in accordance with
Applicable Laws; |
|
12. |
Review all post-audit or management letters containing the recommendations of the external auditor and managements response or follow-up of any identified weakness; |
|
13. |
Meet separately, periodically, with management, with internal auditors (or other personnel responsible for the internal audit function) and with external auditors; |
|
14. |
Oversee the governance of managements Disclosure Committee; |
|
15. |
Review all annual and interim earnings press releases; |
|
16. |
Determine that adequate procedures are in place for the review of the Companys disclosure of financial information extracted or derived from the Companys financial statements, other than disclosure in the
Companys financial statements, managements discussion and analysis and earnings press releases, and periodically assess the adequacy of these procedures; |
|
17. |
Establish procedures for: |
|
a) |
The receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by the Company regarding accounting, internal accounting controls, or auditing matters; and |
|
b) |
The confidential, anonymous submission by employees of the Company of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters; |
|
18. |
Enquire as to the adequacy of the Companys system of internal controls and review periodic reports from management about internal controls |
|
19. |
Review the Companys process with respect to risk assessment and risk management, including an assessment of risk with respect to financial reporting. |
|
20. |
Review and approve all related party transactions; |
|
21. |
Review and approve the Companys hiring policies regarding employees and former employees of the present and former external auditors of the Company; |
|
22. |
Have such other duties, powers and authorities, consistent with the provisions of the Canada Business Corporations Act, as the Board may, by resolution, delegate to the Audit Committee from time to time.
|
Authority
The Audit Committee
shall have the authority:
|
1. |
For the purpose of performing their duties, to inspect all of the books and records of the Company and its affiliates and to discuss such accounts and records and any matters relating to the financial position or
condition of the Company with the officers and internal (if any) and external auditors of the Company and its affiliates; |
|
2. |
To engage independent counsel and other advisors as it determines necessary to carry out its duties; |
|
3. |
To set and pay the compensation for any advisors employed by the Audit Committee, including without limitation, compensation to any public accounting firm engaged for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report
or performing other audit, review or attest services for the Company; |
|
4. |
To set and pay the ordinary administrative expenses of the Audit Committee that are necessary or appropriate in carrying out its duties; and |
|
5. |
To communicate directly with the internal (if any) and external auditors. |
72
Proceedings
The following shall apply to the proceedings of the Audit Committee:
|
1. |
The business of the Audit Committee shall be transacted in person, by conference call or by resolution in writing. All questions at a meeting shall be decided by majority vote of those present and the Chairman of the
meeting shall not have a second or casting vote. |
|
2. |
A resolution in writing signed by all members of the Audit Committee shall be as valid as if it had been passed at a duly called and constituted meeting. Such resolutions may be signed in one or more counterparts.
|
|
3. |
The Audit Committee chairman shall periodically report to the Board of Directors on the activities of the Audit Committee. |
|
4. |
The external auditor of the Company shall, at the expense of the Company, be entitled to attend and be heard at or may be invited to any meeting of the Audit Committee. |
|
5. |
The external auditor and senior management shall have the opportunity or may be invited to meet separately with the Audit Committee. |
|
6. |
The minutes of the proceedings of the Audit Committee and any resolutions in writing shall be kept in a book provided for that purpose which shall always be open for inspection by any director of the Company.
|
73
IMPERIAL-METRIC CONVERSION TABLE
|
|
|
Imperial |
|
Metric |
1 troy ounce |
|
31.103 grams |
1 ton, short |
|
0.907 tonnes |
1 troy ounce per ton |
|
34.286 grams per tonne |
1 foot |
|
0.305 metres |
1 mile |
|
1.609 kilometres |
1 acre |
|
0.405 hectares |
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
The following is a glossary of certain terms used in this document:
°C means degrees Celsius.
2014
LDI Report means the NI 43-101 report titled Technical Report Lac des Isles Mine, Ontario, Incorporating Prefeasibility Study for Life of Mine Plan dated March 31, 2014 (effective date of March 21, 2014) prepared by
Tetra Tech WEI Inc.
Au means gold.
concentrate means a product containing the valuable metal and from which most of the waste material in the ore has been removed.
Cu means copper.
cut-off
grade is determined by the following formula parameters: estimates over the relevant period of mining costs, ore treatment costs, general and administrative costs, refining costs, royalty expenses, process and refining recovery rates and
PGM prices.
diamond drilling means rotary drilling using diamond impregnated bits to produce a solid continuous core sample of the
underlying rock.
EGAB means equigranular gabbro.
feasibility study means a comprehensive technical and economic study of the selected development option for a mineral project that includes
detailed assessments of the factors and detailed financial analysis that are necessary to demonstrate that extraction is reasonably justified (economically mineable).
g means gram.
gabbro
means a dark, course-grained intrusive rock usually composed of angular rock fragments.
grade means a particular quantity of ore or
mineral relative to other constituents, in a specified quantity of rock.
74
g/t means grams per tonne.
head grade means the quantity of valuable mineral or metal contained in each tonne of ore delivered to the concentrator.
HGABBX means Heterolithic Gabbro Breccia.
indicated resource means that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical
characteristics, can be estimated with a level of confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is
based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity
to be reasonably assumed.
inferred resource means that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be
estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed, but not verified, geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through appropriate techniques from
locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes.
intrusion/intrusive means a mass of igneous rock that was
injected and solidified within the earths crust.
iridium means hard, brittle, silver-white platinum group metal used for pen
tips, jewellery, resistance wiring, electronic contacts and electrodes.
km2 means
square kilometre.
lb means pound.
L/d means litres per day.
L/min means litres per minute.
LDI means Lac des Iles Mines Ltd.
LDI Mine means the Lac des Iles mine.
mafic rocks or ultramafic rocks means rocks composed of 40 to 90% mafic minerals (PGM deposits are usually hosted in
mafic and untramafic intrusive rocks).
MBI means the Mine Block Intrusion.
measured resource means that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, densities, shape and physical characteristics
are so well established that they can be estimated with confidence sufficient to allow the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters to support production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit. The
estimate is
75
based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes that
are spaced closely enough to confirm both geological and grade continuity.
mineral reserve means the economically mineable part of a
measured or indicated resource demonstrated by at least a preliminary feasibility study. This study must include adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic and other relevant factors that demonstrate, at the time of
reporting, that economic extraction can be justified. A mineral reserve includes diluting materials and allowances for losses that may occur when the material is mined.
mineral resource means a concentration or occurrence of natural, solid, inorganic or fossilized organic material in or on the Earths
crust in such form and quantity and of such a grade or quality that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a mineral resource are known, estimated or
interpreted from specific geological evidence and knowledge.
mineralization means the concentration of metals and their chemical
compounds within a body of rock.
mm means millimetre.
mL means millilitre.
MNDM means the Ontario Ministry of Northern Development and Mines.
Mt means million tonnes.
Ni means nickel.
North VT
Rim means mineralization of possible economic significance located about one kilometre along strike to the east of the Roby Zone which may be contiguous to an extension of the Roby Zone.
NQ refers to a common diameter (47.6 mm) size of core.
NSR means net smelter return, being the gross proceeds received from the sale of minerals less the cost of smelting, refining, freight and
other related costs.
NSR royalty means net smelter return royalty, being a royalty based on the gross proceeds received from the sale
of minerals less the cost of smelting, refining, freight and other related costs.
NI 43-101 means National Instrument 43-101
Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.
Offset Zone means the mineralized zone located below and approximately 250 metres
to the west of the Lac des Iles underground mine orebody.
OK means ordinary kriging.
76
ore means a mixture of valuable and worthless minerals from which at least one of the minerals
can be mined and processed at an economic profit.
osmium means a rare, hard white metal.
ounce or oz. means a troy ounce. A troy ounce is equal to one-twelfth part of a pound or 31.103 grams.
Outlaw Zone means the potential zone of mineralization at the LDI Mine located to the west of the Offset Zone.
palladium means a white, ductile, malleable precious metal that does not tarnish at normal temperatures. Palladium is used in a wide range
of applications including automotive catalytic converters, electronics, dentistry, jewellery and chemical applications.
Pd means
palladium.
PEA means the new NI 43-101 report titled NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario, Incorporating a
Preliminary Economic Assessment of the Mine Expansion Plan dated March 27, 2015 prepared by Qualified Persons.
PGEs means
platinum group elements.
PGMs means Platinum Group Metals. Platinum Group Metals include platinum, palladium,
rhodium, ruthenium, osmium and iridium. All PGMs have catalytic qualities and resist corrosion and are chemically inert over a wide range of temperatures.
Pt means platinum.
pyroxenite means an ultramafic rock which predominantly contains the mafic mineral pyroxene (Mg-rich silicate).
PYXT means a pyroxenite unit.
QA means quality assurance.
QC means quality control.
Qualified Person means an individual who is an engineer or geoscientist with at least five years of experience in mineral exploration, mine
development or operation or mineral project assessment, or any combination of these; has experience relevant to the subject matter of the mineral project and the technical report; and is a member in good standing of a professional association.
RGO means low-grade stockpile.
rhodium means a silver-white metal of the platinum family resistant to tarnishing and used as an electrode posit, or alloyed with platinum
to manufacture thermocouples.
77
Roby Zone means the previously operated open pit and the underground mine which is currently
in production on the LDI property.
Sheriff Zone means a PGM zone delineated in 2013 at the LDI Property, located approximately 100
metres southeast of the Offset Zone.
tailings means that portion of the ore which remains after the valuable minerals have been
extracted.
t/a means tonnes per year.
Tetra Tech means Tetra Tech WEI Inc.
TMF means tailings management facility.
tonne means a metric measure consisting of 2,204.6 pounds or 1,000 kilograms.
ultramafic means rocks composed of greater than 90% mafic minerals (PGM deposits are usually hosted in mafic and ultramafic intrusive
rocks).
VGAB means varitextured gabbro.
waste means barren rock in a mine, or mineralized material that is too low in grade to be mined and milled at a profit.
wt% means weight percent.
78
Exhibit 1.2
North American Palladium Ltd.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Page |
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Managements Discussion and Analysis |
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INTRODUCTION |
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1 |
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|
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FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION |
|
|
1 |
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|
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CAUTIONARY NOTE TO U.S. INVESTORS CONCERNING MINERAL RESERVES AND RESOURCES |
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2 |
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OUR BUSINESS |
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2 |
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HIGHLIGHTS |
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3 |
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SELECTED ANNUAL INFORMATION |
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4 |
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LDI OPERATING & FINANCIAL RESULTS |
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5 |
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GOLD OPERATIONS |
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12 |
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FINANCIAL CONDITION, CASH FLOWS, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES |
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13 |
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FINANCIAL CONDITION |
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14 |
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OUTSTANDING SHARE DATA |
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16 |
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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES |
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17 |
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RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES |
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21 |
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INTERNAL CONTROLS |
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21 |
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OTHER INFORMATION |
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21 |
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NON-IFRS MEASURES |
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22 |
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North American Palladium Ltd.
Managements Discussion and Analysis
INTRODUCTION
Unless the context suggests otherwise, references to NAP or the Company or similar terms refer to North American Palladium Ltd. and its
subsidiaries. LDI refers to Lac des Iles Mines Ltd. and NAP Quebec refers to its previously held subsidiary, NAP Quebec Mines Ltd.
The following is managements discussion and analysis of the financial condition and results of operations (MD&A) to enable readers of
the Companys consolidated financial statements and related notes to assess material changes in financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared to those of the respective periods in the prior
year. This MD&A has been prepared as of February 18, 2015 and is intended to supplement and complement the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2014 (collectively, the Financial
Statements), which have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the IASB. Readers are encouraged to review the Financial Statements in conjunction with their review of this
MD&A and the most recent Form 40-F/Annual Information Form on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities, available at www.sec.gov and www.sedar.com,
respectively.
Mr. James Gallagher, the Companys Chief Operating Officer and a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed
and approved all technical items disclosed in this MD&A.
All amounts are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted and all references to production
ounces refer to payable production.
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
Certain information contained in this MD&A
constitutes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Canadian securities laws. All statements other than statements
of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The words expect, believe, anticipate, contemplate, target, may, will, could, intend,
estimate and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements included in this MD&A include, without limitation: information as to our strategy, plans or future financial or operating performance,
project timelines, production plans, projected cash flows or expenditures, operating cost estimates, mining methods, expected mining rates and other statements that express managements expectations or estimates of future performance. The
Company cautions the reader that such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risk factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risk factors
include, but are not limited to: that the Company may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all its indebtedness and may be forced to take other actions to satisfy its obligations, hedging could expose it to losses, competition, the
possibility title to its mineral properties will be challenged, dependency on third parties for smelting and refining, the possibility that metal prices and foreign exchange rates may fluctuate, inherent risks associated with development,
exploration, mining and processing including risks related to tailings capacity and ground conditions, environmental hazards, uncertainty of mineral reserves and resources, the possibility that the mine may not perform as planned, changes in
legislation, regulations or political and economic developments in Canada and abroad, employment disruptions including in connection with collective agreements between the Company and unions, litigation and the risks associated with obtaining
necessary licenses and permits. For more details on these and other risk factors see the Companys most recent Annual Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities. Forward-looking statements
are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. The factors and assumptions
contained in this MD&A, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to: that the Company will continue in
1
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
operation for the foreseeable future and will be able to realize its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business, that metal prices and exchange rates between the
Canadian and United States dollar will be consistent with the Companys expectations, that there will be no material delays affecting operations or the timing of ongoing projects, that prices for key mining and construction supplies, including
labour costs, will remain consistent with the Companys expectations, and that the Companys current estimates of mineral reserves and resources are accurate. The forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. The
Company disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, events or otherwise, except as expressly required by law. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on these
forward-looking statements.
CAUTIONARY NOTE TO U.S. INVESTORS CONCERNING MINERAL RESERVES AND RESOURCES
Mineral reserve and mineral resource
information contained herein has been calculated in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, as required by Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities. Canadian standards
differ significantly from the requirements of the SEC, and mineral reserve and mineral resource information contained herein is not comparable to similar information disclosed in accordance with the requirements of the SEC. While the terms
measured, indicated and inferred mineral resources are required pursuant to National Instrument 43-101, the SEC does not recognize such terms. U.S. investors should understand that inferred mineral
resources have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and great uncertainty as to their economic and legal feasibility. In addition, U.S. investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of NAPs mineral resources
constitute or will be converted into reserves. For a more detailed description of the key assumptions, parameters and methods used in calculating NAPs mineral reserves and mineral resources, see NAPs most recent Annual Information
Form/Form 40-F on file with Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities and the SEC.
OUR BUSINESS
NAP is an established precious metals producer that
has been operating its LDI Mine located in Ontario, Canada since 1993. LDI is one of only two primary producers of palladium in the world, offering investors exposure to the price of palladium.
The Company recently expanded the underground LDI Mine and has transitioned from ramp access to shaft access while utilizing long hole open stope mining. The
Company has significant exploration potential near the LDI Mine, where a number of growth targets have been identified, and is engaged in an exploration program aimed at increasing its palladium reserves and resources. As an established palladium-platinum group metal (PGM) producer on a permitted property, NAP has the potential to convert exploration success into production and cash flow on an accelerated timeline.
The Company conducted an exploration program in 2014 that primarily targeted the lower portion of the Offset zone. A preliminary economic assessment is
currently being completed to evaluate the economic potential of extending the mine life through an open pit expansion and/or an underground mine expansion that would increase production and would entail deepening the shaft and installing a lower
level bulk ore handling system.
NAP trades on the TSX under the symbol PDL and on the NYSE MKT under the symbol PAL.
2
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
HIGHLIGHTS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS |
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Mining |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tonnes ore mined and processed |
|
|
2,637,023 |
|
|
|
2,093,669 |
|
Palladium head grade (g/t) |
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
2.7 |
|
Milling |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tonnes ore milled |
|
|
2,684,782 |
|
|
|
2,048,082 |
|
Palladium head grade (g/t) |
|
|
2.7 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
Palladium recovery (%) |
|
|
82.4 |
|
|
|
80.7 |
|
Palladium production payable ounces |
|
|
174,194 |
|
|
|
135,158 |
|
Palladium sales payable ounces |
|
|
173,887 |
|
|
|
134,955 |
|
Realized palladium price per ounce (US$) |
|
$ |
802 |
|
|
$ |
724 |
|
Cash cost per ounce palladium sold (US$) 1 |
|
$ |
513 |
|
|
$ |
560 |
|
|
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS |
|
($millions except per share amounts) |
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Revenue |
|
$ |
220.1 |
|
|
$ |
153.2 |
|
Production costs |
|
|
130.7 |
|
|
|
107.5 |
|
Income (loss) from mining operations |
|
|
21.9 |
|
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
Loss from continuing operations |
|
|
66.7 |
|
|
|
48.7 |
|
Loss from continuing operations per share |
|
$ |
0.20 |
|
|
$ |
0.26 |
|
Loss and comprehensive loss |
|
|
66.7 |
|
|
|
46.2 |
|
Loss per share |
|
$ |
0.20 |
|
|
$ |
0.25 |
|
EBITDA 1 |
|
|
23.4 |
|
|
|
(3.8 |
) |
Adjusted EBITDA 1 |
|
|
50.0 |
|
|
|
15.3 |
|
Capital spending |
|
|
23.8 |
|
|
|
109.5 |
|
1 |
Non-IFRS measure. Please refer to Non-IFRS Measures on pages 22-24. |
In 2014, the Company successfully
transitioned from ramp to shaft based underground mining and the sources of ore milled have changed significantly.
|
|
|
2,637,023 tonnes were mined from the Offset and Roby zones and processed from the low grade surface stockpile at an average grade of 2.6 grams per tonne palladium. |
|
|
|
The mill processed 2,684,782 tonnes of ore at an average palladium head grade of 2.7 grams per tonne and a recovery of 82.4%. |
|
|
|
Payable palladium production was 174,194 ounces while payable palladium sales were 173,887 ounces. |
|
|
|
Cash interest of $41.4 million was paid including an amount that allowed the Company to revert to a 15% interest rate on its senior secured term loan. |
|
|
|
Revenue increased by $66.9 million compared to 2013 primarily due to increased palladium production and sales ($29.1 million), higher palladium prices ($12.9 million) and more favourable exchange rates ($13.1 million).
|
|
|
|
Production costs increased $23.2 million to $130.7 million compared to 2013 primarily due to mining 50% more underground tonnes, milling 31% more tonnes and unfavourable inventory and other cost movements.
|
|
|
|
Adjusted EBITDA increased $34.7 million to $50.0 million or 227% compared to 2013. |
|
|
|
During 2014, the Company had $49.6 million of interest expense and other costs, $18.3 million of foreign exchange losses and $7.5 million of financing costs. |
3
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
2013 was a transition year for the Company as it was sinking the shaft and completing related infrastructure
while developing and transitioning to mining the Offset zone. As a result, the 2013 financial results would not be directly comparable to the prior or future years. In 2013:
|
|
|
2,093,669 tonnes were mined at an average grade of 2.7 g/t palladium. |
|
|
|
The mill processed 2,048,082 tonnes of ore at an average palladium head grade of 2.8 grams per tonne and a recovery of 80.7% to produce 135,158 ounces of payable palladium. |
|
|
|
Revenue decreased to $153.2 million in 2013 primarily due to lower tonnes and grades of ore milled partially offset by higher realized palladium prices. |
|
|
|
Production costs increased to $107.5 million in 2013 primarily due to unfavourable movements in inventory levels and increased power consumption partially offset by insurance proceeds received in 2013.
|
|
|
|
Capital expenditures totaled $109.5 million with $91.8 million spent of the LDI mine expansion, and an additional $20.5 million spent primarily on the tailings management facility. |
|
|
|
The Company had an $11.0 million loss on extinguishment of long-term debt and a $7.4 million foreign exchange loss primarily on US$ denominated debt. |
SELECTED ANNUAL INFORMATION
Statement of Operations and Statement of Cash Flow Data
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
($millions except for share and per share amounts) |
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Gross sales revenue |
|
$ |
220.1 |
|
|
$ |
153.2 |
|
Smelting, refining and freight costs |
|
|
19.0 |
|
|
|
14.0 |
|
Royalty expense |
|
|
9.1 |
|
|
|
6.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue |
|
|
192.0 |
|
|
|
132.7 |
|
Production costs |
|
|
130.7 |
|
|
|
107.5 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
37.7 |
|
|
|
25.5 |
|
Others, net |
|
|
1.7 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from mining operations |
|
|
21.9 |
|
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss and comprehensive loss |
|
|
66.7 |
|
|
|
46.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic loss per share |
|
$ |
0.20 |
|
|
$ |
0.25 |
|
Diluted loss per share |
|
$ |
0.20 |
|
|
$ |
0.26 |
|
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities |
|
|
(11.5 |
) |
|
|
6.5 |
|
Net cash provided by financing activities |
|
|
29.4 |
|
|
|
71.3 |
|
Capital expenditures |
|
|
23.8 |
|
|
|
109.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic weighted-average number of Common Shares outstanding (millions) |
|
|
339.3 |
|
|
|
187.2 |
|
Number of Common Shares outstanding (millions) |
|
|
386.5 |
|
|
|
197.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the year ended December 31, 2014, revenue increased 44% to $220.1 million compared to $153.2 million in the prior
year. Income from mining operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $21.9 million compared to a loss from mining operations of $0.8 million in the prior year.
4
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
LDI OPERATING & FINANCIAL RESULTS
The LDI mine consists of an underground mine, an open
pit (currently inactive), a substantial low grade surface stockpile, a mill and a shaft with processing capacities of approximately 15,000 and 8,000 tonnes per day respectively. The primary underground deposits on the property are the Offset and
Roby zones. During 2014, mill throughput was impacted by running the mill full time on a test basis throughout the fourth quarter compared to a batch basis for the first three quarters. Underground production was impacted by ongoing transitioning to
shaft-based mining, upgrades to the ore handling system, repairs to the primary surface crusher, oversized muck, equipment availability and a fatality.
Operating Results
The key operating results for the
palladium operations are set out in the following table.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Ore mined (tonnes) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Underground |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset |
|
|
1,060,706 |
|
|
|
673,668 |
|
Roby |
|
|
164,841 |
|
|
|
143,037 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,225,547 |
|
|
|
816,705 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Surface |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Low grade stockpile & reprocessed tailings |
|
|
1,411,476 |
|
|
|
738,641 |
|
Open pit |
|
|
|
|
|
|
538,323 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1,411,476 |
|
|
|
1,276,964 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
2,637,023 |
|
|
|
2,093,669 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mined ore grade (Pd g/t) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Underground |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Offset |
|
|
4.4 |
|
|
|
4.5 |
|
Roby |
|
|
4.4 |
|
|
|
4.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.4 |
|
|
|
4.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Surface |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Low grade stockpile & reprocessed tailings |
|
|
1.1 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
Open pit |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.3 |
|
High grade stockpile |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
|
|
1.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average |
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
2.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Milling |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tonnes of ore milled |
|
|
2,684,782 |
|
|
|
2,048,082 |
|
Palladium head grade (g/t) |
|
|
2.7 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
Palladium recoveries (%) |
|
|
82.4 |
|
|
|
80.7 |
|
Tonnes of concentrate produced |
|
|
21,519 |
|
|
|
16,966 |
|
Production cost per tonne milled |
|
$ |
49 |
|
|
$ |
52 |
|
|
|
|
Payable production |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Palladium (oz) |
|
|
174,194 |
|
|
|
135,158 |
|
Platinum (oz) |
|
|
13,072 |
|
|
|
10,222 |
|
Gold (oz) |
|
|
11,607 |
|
|
|
10,423 |
|
Nickel (lbs) |
|
|
1,677,820 |
|
|
|
1,437,311 |
|
Copper (lbs) |
|
|
3,029,525 |
|
|
|
2,828,271 |
|
Cash cost per ounce of palladium sold (US$)1 |
|
$ |
513 |
|
|
$ |
560 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
Non-IFRS measure. Please refer to Non-IFRS Measures on pages 22-24. |
5
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Mining
In 2014, underground tonnes mined from the Offset and Roby zones were blended with the low grade surface stockpile material for processing in the mill.
Underground ore mined at LDI from the Offset and Roby zones consisted of 1,225,547 tonnes at an average grade of 4.4 g/t palladium compared to 816,705 tonnes at an average palladium grade of 4.4 g/t in the prior year. LDI processed 1,411,476 tonnes
of the low grade surface stockpile and tailings at an average grade of 1.1 g/t palladium in 2014 compared to 1,276,964 tonnes at an average palladium grade of 1.6 g/t processed from the open pit and low grade stockpiles in the prior year. On a
combined basis, 26% more tonnes of ore were mined and processed in 2014 at similar grades as in 2013.
During 2013, the open pit and Roby zone were
largely mined out in May and March respectively. Ore mined at LDI during the year ended December 31, 2013, consisted of 2,093,669 tonnes at an average grade of 2.7 g/t palladium with the average grade of ore mined in 2013 decreasing primarily
due to the mix of tonnage and grades from the various ore sources.
Milling
During 2014, the LDI mill processed 2,684,782 tonnes of ore at an average palladium head grade of 2.7 g/t and a recovery of 82.4% to produce 174,194 ounces of
payable palladium (2013 2,048,082 tonnes milled, average palladium head grade of 2.8 g/t, recovery of 80.7%, producing 135,158 ounces of payable palladium). The higher mill recovery in 2014 compared to 2013 was primarily due to improvements
in the mill circuit late in 2013 which increased the percentage of palladium recovered while processing similar ore grades.
Production Costs per
Tonne Milled
Production costs per tonne milled in 2014 were $49 compared to $52 per tonne in 2013. The changes were primarily due to higher costs
associated with mining greater quantities of underground ore (which costs more per tonne to mine) in 2014 compared with 2013 as well as the cost changes noted in the production cost section below partially offset by the impact of greater tonnes
milled in 2014.
Payable Production
Payable
production in 2014 was higher for all payable metals compared to 2013 primarily due to greater tonnes milled and higher recoveries for all metals, except nickel, being offset by lower mill head grades for all payable metals.
Cash Cost per Ounce of Palladium Sold
Cash cost
per ounce of palladium sold is a non-IFRS measure and the calculation is provided in the Non-IFRS Measures section of this MD&A. In 2013, the Company was in transition, sinking a shaft and completing related infrastructure at the same time it
was developing and transitioning to mining the Offset zone. In 2014, the development and transitioning to the Offset zone was completed. The source of ore fed to the mill in 2013 and 2014 were from different ore sources some of which are more costly
to mine.
The cash cost per ounce of palladium sold decreased to US$5131 in 2014 compared to US$560 1 in 2013. The decrease in cash cost in 2014 was mostly due to more payable palladium ounces sold, favourable movements of the Canadian dollar and higher by-product revenues that were offset by
increased production, smelting, refining, freight and royalty costs. Please refer to the LDI revenue, production costs, smelting, refining and freight costs and royalty expense sections of this MD&A for additional details.
1 |
Non-IFRS measure. Please refer to Non-IFRS Measures on pages 22-24. |
6
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Financial Results
Income from mining operations for the LDI operations is summarized in the following table.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
($millions) |
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Gross revenue |
|
$ |
220.1 |
|
|
$ |
153.2 |
|
Smelting, refining and freight costs |
|
|
19.0 |
|
|
|
14.0 |
|
Royalty expense |
|
|
9.1 |
|
|
|
6.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net revenue |
|
|
192.0 |
|
|
|
132.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mining operating expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Production costs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mining |
|
|
76.1 |
|
|
|
64.9 |
|
Milling |
|
|
33.2 |
|
|
|
26.6 |
|
General and administration |
|
|
20.5 |
|
|
|
16.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
129.8 |
|
|
|
108.1 |
|
Inventory |
|
|
0.9 |
|
|
|
(0.6 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
130.7 |
|
|
|
107.5 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
37.7 |
|
|
|
25.5 |
|
Others |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.3 |
) |
Inventory pricing adjustment |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
Loss on disposal of equipment |
|
|
1.7 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total mining operating expenses |
|
|
170.1 |
|
|
|
133.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from mining operations |
|
$ |
21.9 |
|
|
$ |
(0.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Company has included income from mining operations as an additional IFRS measure to provide the user with additional
information on the actual results of the LDI operations.
Gross Revenue
Gross revenue is affected by production and sales volumes, commodity prices, currency exchange rates, mill run timing and shipment schedules. Metal sales for
LDI are recognized in revenue at provisional prices when delivered to a smelter for treatment or a designated shipping point. Final pricing is determined in accordance with LDIs smelter agreements. In most cases, final pricing is determined
two months after delivery to the smelter for gold, nickel and copper and four months after delivery for palladium and platinum. Final pricing adjustments can result in additional revenues in a rising commodity price environment and reductions to
revenue in a declining commodity price environment. Similarly, a weakening in the Canadian dollar relative to the U.S. dollar would have a positive impact on revenues and a strengthening in the Canadian dollar would have a negative impact on
revenues. The Company periodically enters into financial contracts for past production delivered to the smelters to mitigate the smelter agreements provisional pricing exposure to rising or declining palladium prices and an appreciating
Canadian dollar. These financial contracts represent 12,800 ounces of palladium as at December 31, 2014 (December 31, 2013 31,000 palladium ounces) and mature In February 2015 at an average forward price of US$812 per ounce of palladium
(December 31, 2013 US$735). For substantially all of the palladium delivered to the customers under the smelter agreements, the quantities and timing of settlement specified in the financial contracts match final pricing settlement periods.
The palladium financial contracts are being recognized on a mark-to-market basis as an adjustment to revenue. The fair value of these contracts at December 31, 2014 was an asset of $0.2 million included in accounts receivable compared to $0.2
million at December 31, 2013.
7
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2014 |
|
|
|
Palladium |
|
|
Platinum |
|
|
Gold |
|
|
Nickel |
|
|
Copper |
|
|
Others |
|
|
Total |
|
Sales volume(1) |
|
|
173,887 |
|
|
|
12,987 |
|
|
|
11,605 |
|
|
|
1,644,807 |
|
|
|
3,019,105 |
|
|
|
n.a. |
|
|
|
n.a. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Realized price (US$) (1) |
|
$ |
802 |
|
|
$ |
1,384 |
|
|
$ |
1,270 |
|
|
$ |
7.53 |
|
|
$ |
3.11 |
|
|
|
n.a. |
|
|
|
n.a. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue before price adjustment |
|
$ |
155.8 |
|
|
$ |
19.6 |
|
|
$ |
16.1 |
|
|
$ |
13.8 |
|
|
$ |
10.3 |
|
|
$ |
0.1 |
|
|
$ |
215.7 |
|
Price adjustment ($millions): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodities |
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.8 |
|
Foreign exchange |
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue ($million) |
|
$ |
159.4 |
|
|
$ |
19.6 |
|
|
$ |
16.6 |
|
|
$ |
14.2 |
|
|
$ |
10.2 |
|
|
$ |
0.1 |
|
|
$ |
220.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
Quantities and prices are per ounce for palladium, platinum and gold and per pound for nickel and copper. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue for the year ended December 31, 2013 |
|
|
|
Palladium |
|
|
Platinum |
|
|
Gold |
|
|
Nickel |
|
|
Copper |
|
|
Others |
|
|
Total |
|
Sales volume(1) |
|
|
134,955 |
|
|
|
10,192 |
|
|
|
10,416 |
|
|
|
1,437,311 |
|
|
|
2,812,214 |
|
|
|
n.a. |
|
|
|
n.a. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Realized price (US$) (1) |
|
$ |
724 |
|
|
$ |
1,499 |
|
|
$ |
1,437 |
|
|
$ |
6.71 |
|
|
$ |
3.32 |
|
|
|
n.a. |
|
|
|
n.a. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue before price adjustment |
|
$ |
101.5 |
|
|
$ |
15.7 |
|
|
$ |
15.2 |
|
|
$ |
10.1 |
|
|
$ |
9.6 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
152.3 |
|
Price adjustment ($millions): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodities |
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
(0.4 |
) |
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign exchange |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue ($millions) |
|
$ |
103.0 |
|
|
$ |
15.7 |
|
|
$ |
14.7 |
|
|
$ |
9.9 |
|
|
$ |
9.7 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
$ |
153.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
Quantities and prices are per ounce for palladium, platinum and gold and per pound for nickel and copper. |
During 2013, the Company was sinking the shaft and completing related infrastructure while developing and transitioning to mining the Offset zone. Palladium
sales for the year ended 2013 were impacted by a new smelter contract which included lower accountability rates for the payable metal contained in concentrate compared to the contract that was in effect in the prior period. The change in operating
activities, sources of ore processed and smelting agreement make comparisons between periods difficult.
Revenue for 2014 increased by $66.9 million or
44% compared to 2013 primarily due to 29% more ounces of palladium sold at 11% higher realized prices, a 6% favourable movement in the exchange rate and greater volumes of platinum (+27%), gold (+11%), nickel (+14%) and copper (+7%) sold.
Spot Metal Prices* and Exchange Rates
For
comparison purposes, the following table sets out spot metal prices and exchange rates.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dec-31 |
|
|
Sep-30 |
|
|
Jun-30 |
|
|
Mar-31 |
|
|
Dec-31 |
|
|
Sep-30 |
|
|
Jun-30 |
|
|
Mar-31 |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
|
2013 |
|
|
2013 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Palladium US$/oz |
|
$ |
798 |
|
|
$ |
775 |
|
|
$ |
844 |
|
|
$ |
778 |
|
|
$ |
711 |
|
|
$ |
726 |
|
|
$ |
643 |
|
|
$ |
770 |
|
Platinum US$/oz |
|
$ |
1,210 |
|
|
$ |
1,300 |
|
|
$ |
1,480 |
|
|
$ |
1,418 |
|
|
$ |
1,358 |
|
|
$ |
1,411 |
|
|
$ |
1,317 |
|
|
$ |
1,576 |
|
Gold US$/oz |
|
$ |
1,199 |
|
|
$ |
1,217 |
|
|
$ |
1,315 |
|
|
$ |
1,292 |
|
|
$ |
1,202 |
|
|
$ |
1,327 |
|
|
$ |
1,192 |
|
|
$ |
1,598 |
|
Nickel US$/lb |
|
$ |
6.77 |
|
|
$ |
7.49 |
|
|
$ |
8.49 |
|
|
$ |
7.14 |
|
|
$ |
6.34 |
|
|
$ |
6.29 |
|
|
$ |
6.20 |
|
|
$ |
7.50 |
|
Copper US$/lb |
|
$ |
2.85 |
|
|
$ |
3.03 |
|
|
$ |
3.15 |
|
|
$ |
3.01 |
|
|
$ |
3.34 |
|
|
$ |
3.31 |
|
|
$ |
3.06 |
|
|
$ |
3.44 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exchange rate (Bank of Canada) CDN$1 = US$ |
|
US$ |
0.86 |
|
|
US$ |
0.89 |
|
|
US$ |
0.94 |
|
|
US$ |
0.90 |
|
|
US$ |
0.94 |
|
|
US$ |
0.97 |
|
|
US$ |
0.95 |
|
|
US$ |
0.98 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
Based on the London Metal Exchange |
8
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Smelting, refining and freight costs
Smelting, refining and freight costs in 2014 were $19.0 million compared to $14.0 million in 2013. The increase in 2014 primarily due to the impact of a weaker
Canadian dollar and more tonnes of concentrate shipped.
Royalty expense
For 2014, royalty expense was $9.1 million compared to $6.5 million in 2013. The increase in 2014 was primarily due to higher revenues in 2014 compared to
2013.
Mining Operating Expenses
Throughout
the fourth quarter of 2014, the Company performed a fulltime trial mill run that fully utilized the mill compared to the batch basis of operations (i.e. 14 to 16 days a month) in 2013 and the first nine months of 2014. The full mill run was possible
due to improvements in the rate of underground mining which, combined with available surface low grade ore stockpiles and a buildup of inventory of underground ore on surface at September 30, 2014, allowed the higher mill production. Unit
operating costs in the fourth quarter of 2014 were favourably impacted by the increased mill tonnage.
In 2014, the Company completed modifications to the
design of the underground ore handling system, made repairs to the primary surface crusher, endured a colder than normal winter and experienced a fatality, all of which negatively impacted production, payable metal sales and cash cost. 2013 was a
transition year for the Company as the shaft sinking and related infrastructure was being completed at the same time the Company was developing and transitioning to mining the Offset zone.
Production costs
For 2014, production costs were
$130.7 million compared to $107.5 million in 2013.
Mining costs for 2014 increased $11.2 million (17%) to $76.1 million compared to $64.9 million in
2013. In 2014, the Company was predominantly mining underground in the Offset zone, transporting that material up the shaft and the ramp while blending underground material with lower grade surface material. In 2013, mining was predominantly in the
Offset and Roby zones (that was transported to surface using the ramp) and from the open pit and surface stockpiles. As it is more costly to mine underground material compared to surface material, mining costs would be expected to increase as a
greater proportion of underground material is mined. As such, the 2014 and 2013 production costs are not comparable.
Milling costs increased by $6.6
million (25%) to $33.2 million in 2014 compared to $26.6 million in 2013. The increase in 2014 compared to 2013 was primarily due to: more tonnes milled; increased depressant usage and grinding media, liner change-outs and higher power costs.
General and administration costs in 2014 increased $3.9 million (23%) to $20.5 million compared to $16.6 million in 2013. The 2014 increase was
primarily due to amounts charged to the Offset zone capital costs in 2013 that did not recur in 2014 with the completion of the project; increased consultant costs; and, in the first quarter of 2014, increased propane costs due to a colder than
normal winter.
Inventory cost was $0.9 million in 2014 and a reduction of $0.6 million in 2013. The change in inventory costs over the periods was due to
inventory movements.
Depreciation and amortization
Depreciation and amortization for 2014 was $37.7 million compared to $25.5 million in 2013. The 2014 increase was primarily due to increased production and a
significant increase in depreciable assets associated with the LDI mine expansion including the Offset zone and tailings management facilities compared to 2013.
9
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
OTHER EXPENSES
Exploration
Exploration expenditures for 2014 were $8.3 million compared to $12.3 million in 2013. The decrease was primarily due to a more limited exploration program in
2014 compared with 2013. The 2014 exploration program was focused on:
|
(i) |
drilling the lower part of the Offset zone below the 1,065 meter level - the known limit of proven and probable reserves; |
|
(ii) |
resource conversion drilling in the upper Offset zone directly north of active and planned mining stopes; |
|
(iii) |
delineation of new resources in the upper Offset southeast extension, the shallowest known level of the deposit; and, |
|
(iv) |
Surface exploration targets including the Powerline zone. |
In 2014, 36,495 metres of exploration drilling was
completed.
Of the $12.3 million expensed in 2013, $6.8 million was spent on the Upper Offset Southeast, North VT Rim, Sheriff, Roby Northeast, South VT
Rim and, and South LDI near mine targets and $1.9 million was spent on greenfields targets. In 2013, 45,162 metres of exploration drilling was completed.
Corporate general and administration
The Companys
corporate general and administration expenses for 2014 were $9.6 million compared to $10.8 million in 2013. The 2014 decrease was primarily due to less costs relating to legal, consultants, recruiting activities and director fees.
Loss on extinguishment of debt
In 2013, in connection
with a financing, the Company repaid existing senior secured notes and incurred an $11.0 million loss including a $7.2 million debt repayment premium.
Interest and other income
Interest and other income for
2014 was $4.7 million compared to $2.0 million in 2013. The increase in 2014 was primarily due to changes in the fair value of convertible debenture warrants in 2014 partially offset by gains on palladium warrants and the renunciation of
flow-through expenditures in 2013 that did not recur in 2014.
Interest expense and other costs
Prior to the commencement of commercial production from the shaft on January 1, 2014, the Company had capitalized interest expenses related to the senior
secured term loan and the revolving operating line of credit. In 2014, interest related to these loans was expensed.
Interest expense and other costs in
2014 were $49.6 million compared to $6.9 million in 2013. The 2014 increase of $42.7 million was primarily due to a $37.3 million increase due to the commencement of commercial production as noted above and $6.2 million of changes in the fair value
of the convertible debentures issued in 2014.
Financing costs
Financing costs for 2014 were $7.5 million compared to $3.7 million in 2013. The 2014 increase was primarily due to financing costs related to the 2014
convertible debentures issued partially offset by 2013 financing costs related to outlays incurred for the initial investigation and negotiation of various potential financing alternatives prior to entering into the final amending agreement for the
senior secured term loan in the fourth quarter of 2013.
10
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Foreign exchange loss
Foreign exchange loss for 2014 was $18.3 million compared to $7.4 million in 2013. The 2014 and 2013 losses were primarily due to the impact of exchange rate
movements on the US$ denominated senior secured term loan and the US$ denominated credit facility. Non-cash components of the losses in 2014 and 2013 were $15.7 million and $7.0 million respectively.
Income and mining tax recovery
The income and mining tax
recovery for 2013 was $2.2 million compared to $nil in 2014. The 2013 recovery relates to the recognition of Ontario resource tax credits.
Summary of
Quarterly Results
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
($millions except per share amounts) |
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
|
|
Q4 |
|
|
Q3 |
|
|
Q2 |
|
|
Q1 |
|
|
Q4 |
|
|
Q3 |
|
|
Q2 |
|
|
Q1 |
|
Revenue |
|
$ |
74.5 |
|
|
$ |
46.4 |
|
|
$ |
50.5 |
|
|
$ |
48.7 |
|
|
$ |
39.6 |
|
|
$ |
33.3 |
|
|
$ |
33.2 |
|
|
$ |
47.1 |
|
Production costs, net of mine restoration costs |
|
|
40.5 |
|
|
|
30.1 |
|
|
|
30.4 |
|
|
|
29.7 |
|
|
|
29.9 |
|
|
|
22.9 |
|
|
|
25.4 |
|
|
|
29.3 |
|
Exploration expense |
|
|
3.1 |
|
|
|
2.5 |
|
|
|
1.9 |
|
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
3.9 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
4.8 |
|
Capital expenditures |
|
|
9.5 |
|
|
|
5.8 |
|
|
|
5.6 |
|
|
|
2.9 |
|
|
|
16.7 |
|
|
|
26.9 |
|
|
|
27.8 |
|
|
|
38.1 |
|
Net income (loss) from continuing operations |
|
|
(11.3 |
) |
|
|
(18.8 |
) |
|
|
(9.9 |
) |
|
|
(26.7 |
) |
|
|
(11.7 |
) |
|
|
(5.3 |
) |
|
|
(26.3 |
) |
|
|
(5.4 |
) |
Net income (loss) |
|
|
(11.3 |
) |
|
|
(18.8 |
) |
|
|
(9.9 |
) |
|
|
(26.7 |
) |
|
|
(11.7 |
) |
|
|
(5.3 |
) |
|
|
(26.3 |
) |
|
|
(2.8 |
) |
Cash provided by (used in) operations |
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
8.0 |
|
|
|
(3.8 |
) |
|
|
(16.7 |
) |
|
|
4.2 |
|
|
|
2.0 |
|
|
|
(2.8 |
) |
|
|
3.1 |
|
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities |
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
(34.7 |
) |
|
|
31.6 |
|
|
|
31.8 |
|
|
|
4.3 |
|
|
|
(2.1 |
) |
|
|
52.0 |
|
|
|
17.1 |
|
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities |
|
|
(9.5 |
) |
|
|
(5.8 |
) |
|
|
(5.4 |
) |
|
|
(2.9 |
) |
|
|
(16.7 |
) |
|
|
(26.7 |
) |
|
|
(27.8 |
) |
|
|
(37.1 |
) |
Net income (loss) per share from continuing operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
basic |
|
$ |
(0.01 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.05 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.11 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.05 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.15 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
diluted |
|
$ |
(0.01 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.05 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.11 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.05 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.16 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
Net income per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
basic |
|
$ |
(0.01 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.05 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.11 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.05 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.15 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.02 |
) |
diluted |
|
$ |
(0.01 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.05 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.11 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.05 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.03 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.16 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.02 |
) |
Tonnes milled |
|
|
1,080,299 |
|
|
|
566,494 |
|
|
|
521,478 |
|
|
|
516,511 |
|
|
|
544,074 |
|
|
|
517,157 |
|
|
|
483,266 |
|
|
|
503,585 |
|
Palladium sold (ounces) |
|
|
57,256 |
|
|
|
36,430 |
|
|
|
40,716 |
|
|
|
39,485 |
|
|
|
35,205 |
|
|
|
27,370 |
|
|
|
32,620 |
|
|
|
39,760 |
|
Realized palladium price (US$/ounce) |
|
|
787 |
|
|
|
860 |
|
|
|
806 |
|
|
|
739 |
|
|
|
725 |
|
|
|
721 |
|
|
|
719 |
|
|
|
730 |
|
Fourth Quarter 2014:
|
|
|
Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2014 increased by $34.9 million or 88% compared with the same period in 2013 primarily due to the impact of a trial full time mill run resulting in significantly higher precious metal
quantities sold and more favourable palladium realized prices and foreign exchange rates partially offset by lower prices realized for platinum, gold and copper. |
|
|
|
Payable palladium, platinum, gold, copper and nickel, sold increased by 63%, 71%, 41% 26% and 63% respectively in the fourth quarter of 2014 compared with the same period in 2013. |
|
|
|
For the quarter ended December 31, 2014, production costs were $40.5 million compared to $29.8 million in the prior year period, a 36% increase. The $10.7 million increase in production costs was primarily due to a
78% increase in tonnes mined and a 99% increase in tonnes milled. |
11
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
|
|
|
Cash provided by operations prior to changes in non-cash working capital for the quarter ended December 31, 2014, was a source of cash of $18.5 million, compared to $4.5 million in the prior year period. The
increase of $14.0 million is primarily due to higher operating profits. |
|
|
|
For the quarter ended December 31, 2014, cash provided by operations was a source of cash of $1.0 million, compared to $4.2 million in the comparable 2013 period. The decrease of $3.2 million is primarily due
to the change in cash provided by operations prior to changes in non-cash working capital discussed above, increases in accounts receivable of $23.9 million and inventories of $4.1 million partially offset by decreases of accounts payable and
accrued liabilities of $10.3 million and greater depreciation of $6.0 million. |
|
|
|
During the fourth quarter of 2014, financing activities resulted in a source of cash of $0.7 million consisting of a $10.3 million increased utilization the credit facility primarily offset by $7.6 million of interest
payments and $1.1 million of palladium warrant settlements. |
|
|
|
For the quarter ended December 31, 2014, investing activities used cash of $9.5 million (2013 - $16.7 million) due to additions to mining interests. |
Trends:
|
|
|
Revenue, production costs, tonnes milled and palladium ounces sold, varied over the last eight quarters as mining has transitioned from the Roby zone underground and the surface open pit to the Offset zone underground
and surface stockpiles. Changes in tonnes, grades and sources of ore significantly impacted revenue realized, production costs, ore available for milling and palladium ounces produced. |
|
|
|
Readily available material in the Roby and open pit zones were largely mined out in the first half of 2013 while the Offset zone production has been ramping up since 2012. |
|
|
|
Realized quarterly average prices for palladium have ranged from US$719 to US$860 per ounce in the last eight quarters while prices for platinum, gold, copper and nickel have generally been flat to declining over the
same period. The weakening of the Canadian dollar versus the United States dollar generally results in higher revenues. |
|
|
|
Underground mining operations have been transitioning to a shaft based ore handling system from a ramp based one in the most recent quarters. The Company is currently moving a majority of ore to surface using the shaft.
|
|
|
|
Capital expenditures have been generally declining for the last eight quarters as activities associated with the construction of the shaft and related infrastructure to process the upper Offset zone ore were completed.
|
|
|
|
Cash used in operations in Q1 2013 increased primarily due accounts payable payments. |
|
|
|
Cash from financing activities in Q1 and Q2 2014 was a primarily due to the issuance of convertible debentures while the use of funds in Q3 2014 was primarily due to a partial repayment of the senior security debt
facility. Cash provided by financing activities in Q2 2013 was high primarily due to $131.9 million of senior secured term loan issued and $9.6 million share issuance less $79.2 million repayment of senior secured notes and $8.8 million repayment of
the credit facility. |
GOLD OPERATIONS
On March 22, 2013, the Company sold NAP Quebec
for gross proceeds of $18.0 million in cash, 1.5 million common shares of Maudore Minerals Ltd. and $1.8 million of receivable inventory amounts. For Financial Statement purposes, NAP Quebec has been treated as a discontinued operation in 2013.
For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company has recorded $2.5 million income from discontinued operations, including a gain on disposal of discontinued operations of $1.5 million compared to a loss from discontinued operations of $54.6
million in the prior year.
12
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
NAPs gold division consisted of the Vezza gold mine, the Sleeping Giant mill, the closed Sleeping Giant
mine and a number of nearby exploration projects, all located in the Abitibi region of Quebec. Please refer to note 4 (discontinued operations and assets held for sale) in the Financial Statements for additional information regarding the gold
division.
FINANCIAL CONDITION, CASH FLOWS, LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Sources and Uses of Cash
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
($millions) |
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Cash provided by operations prior to changes in non-cash working capital |
|
$ |
41.7 |
|
|
$ |
6.7 |
|
Changes in non-cash working capital |
|
|
(53.2 |
) |
|
|
(0.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash provided by (used in) operations |
|
|
(11.5 |
) |
|
|
6.5 |
|
Cash provided by financing |
|
|
29.4 |
|
|
|
71.3 |
|
Cash used in investing |
|
|
(23.6 |
) |
|
|
(108.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in cash from continuing operations |
|
|
(5.7 |
) |
|
|
(30.5 |
) |
|
|
|
Net cash provided by discontinued operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
20.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
(5.7 |
) |
|
$ |
(10.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Activities
For 2014, cash provided by operations prior to changes in non-cash working capital was $41.7 million compared to $6.7 million in 2013. The 2014 increase of
$35.0 million was primarily due to a $66.9 million increase in revenue and a $4.0 million decrease in exploration expenses partially offset by a $23.2 million increase in production costs.
Changes in non-cash working capital for 2014 resulted in a use of cash of $53.2 million compared to $0.2 million in 2013. The 2014 increased use of $53.0
million was primarily due to increases in accounts receivable of $52.3 million and an increase in cash settlements of accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $3.3 million partially offset by a decrease of other assets of $3.5 million.
Financing Activities and Liquidity
For 2014,
financing activities resulted in a source of cash of $29.4 million compared to $71.3 million in 2013. In 2014, financing activities consisted primarily of $61.2 million of net proceeds from convertible debentures issued (that have largely been
converted into equity), $15.9 million drawdown on a credit facility and $41.4 million of interest paid. In 2013, financing activities consisted primarily of $147.8 million relating to the issuance of the senior secured term loan and $18.9 million
related to the issuance of flow-through common shares, partially offset by repayments of senior secured notes of $79.2 million, finance lease payments of $2.9 million, interest payments of $8.4 million and $1.7 million relating to the settlement of
palladium warrants.
Investing Activities
Investing activities used cash of $23.6 million in 2014 compared to $108.3 million in 2013. The expenditures in 2014 and 2013 were primarily due to additions
to mining interests.
13
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
FINANCIAL CONDITION
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
($millions) |
|
As at December 31 2014 |
|
|
As at December 31 2013 |
|
Cash balance |
|
$ |
4.1 |
|
|
$ |
9.8 |
|
Adjusted net working capital (deficit) surplus1 |
|
|
20.5 |
|
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
Total debt |
|
|
281.7 |
|
|
|
239.1 |
|
Shareholders equity |
|
|
224.4 |
|
|
|
222.5 |
|
1 |
Non-IFRS measure. Please refer to Non-IFRS Measures on pages 22-24. |
As at December 31, 2014, the
Company had cash and cash equivalents of $4.1 million compared to $9.8 million as at December 31, 2013. The change year over year is due to the sources and uses of cash as noted above. The funds are deposited with major Canadian chartered
banks.
The Company has, subject to a borrowing base cap, a US$60.0 million credit facility that is secured by first priority on the Companys
accounts receivables and inventory and second priority on the property, plant and equipment and may be used for working capital liquidity and general corporate purposes. In July 2014, the Company extended its US$60 million credit facility to
July 3, 2015 and as at December 31, 2014, the borrowing base calculation limited the credit facility to a maximum of US$51.7 million of which US$44.7 million was utilized including US$13.3 million of letters of credit.
In October 2014, holders of the remaining 12,000 of the Companys palladium warrants exercised their warrants. In settlement of the warrants, the
Company paid approximately $1.1 million in cash. As at February 18, 2015, no palladium warrants remained outstanding.
In July 2014, the Company
paid US$23.4 million to its senior secured term loan lender representing US$16.2 million of accrued interest and US$7.2 million of associated pre-payment fee. Effective June 30, 2014, the Company reverted to a 15% annual interest rate on the
senior secured term loan and made US$6.5 million interest payments on each of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2014.
In the second quarter
of 2014, the Company closed $35.0 million gross principal amount of convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (the Tranche 2 Debentures) of the Company at a price of $1,000 per debenture, including approximately 18.9 million
warrants (the Tranche 2 Warrants). The conversion price of the Tranche 2 Debentures is $0.4629 per share and the exercise price of the Tranche 2 Warrants is $0.5786 per share. The Tranche 2 Debentures mature on April 11, 2019 and
bear interest at an annual rate of 7.5%. Holders may convert their Tranche 2 Debentures into common shares of NAP at any time at a conversion rate of approximately 2,160 Common Shares per $1,000 principal amount of Tranche 2 Debentures. Holders
converting their debentures will receive all accrued and unpaid interest, as well as interest that would have been paid if the debenture were held through to maturity (the Tranche 2 Make Whole Amount). At the Companys option,
interest and Tranche 2 Make-Whole Amounts can be paid in common shares. The Tranche 2 Warrants entitle the holders to purchase up to 25.0% of the number of common shares of the Company into which the principal amount of the Tranche 2 Debentures
purchased by the holders are convertible at the initial fixed conversion price at any time before the second anniversary of the Tranche 2 Debenture closing date.
14
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
In the first quarter of 2014, the Company closed an aggregate of $32.0 million gross principal amount of
convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (the Tranche 1 Debentures) of the Company at a price of $1,000 per debenture, including approximately 16.8 million warrants (the Tranche 1 Warrants). The conversion price of
the Tranche 1 Debentures is $0.635 per share and the exercise price of the Tranche 1 Warrants was initially $0.762 per share and has been adjusted to $0.5786 per share (pursuant to Tranche 1 Warrant terms). The Tranche 1 Debentures mature on
January 31, 2019 and bear interest at an annual rate of 7.5%. Holders may convert their Tranche 1 Debentures into common shares of NAP at any time at a conversion rate of approximately 1,575 Common Shares per $1,000 principal amount of Tranche
1 Debentures. Holders converting their debentures will receive all accrued and unpaid interest, as well as interest that would have been paid if the debenture were held through to maturity (the Tranche 1 Make Whole Amount). At the
Companys option, interest and Tranche 1 Make-Whole Amounts can be paid in common shares. The Tranche 1 Warrants entitle the holders to purchase up to 33.33% of the number of common shares of the Company into which the principal amount of the
Tranche 1 Debentures purchased by the holders are convertible at the initial fixed conversion price at any time before the third anniversary of the date that shareholder approval is received. Shareholder approval for the Tranche 1 Warrants was
obtained on March 28, 2014.
As at February 18, 2015, $66.0 million of the Tranche 1 Debentures and the Tranche 2 Debentures had been converted
resulting in the issuance of a total of 188.5 million common shares pursuant to the conversion and make whole provisions of the convertible debentures.
On November 29, 2013, the Company amended its US$130 million senior secured term loan resulting in an additional advance of US$21.4 million of cash to
support working capital needs and continue funding operating and capital expenditures at its LDI mine. The cash received consists of an additional US$15 million added to the existing facility and a refund of US$6.4 million of cash interest
previously paid.
Pursuant to the amendment, the interest rate was recalculated as if NAP had elected to accrue interest on the loan from the date of the
original closing on June 7, 2013, resulting in a 4% increase of the interest rate from 15% to 19% until the Company reverts to cash interest payments. After the Company reverts to cash interest payments, and interest and fees which have been
deferred are paid, the interest rate returns to 15% per annum on the principal amount outstanding.
In July 2013, the Company issued approximately
8.6 million of flow-through common shares at a price of $1.164 per share for net proceeds of approximately $9.5 million. In June 2013, the Company issued approximately 8.7 million of flow-through common shares at a price
of $1.155 per share for net proceeds of approximately $9.6 million. The Company was required to spend the aggregate gross proceeds of $20.0 million on eligible exploration and mine development expenditures, which expenditures must be
renounced to investors in 2013. As at December 31, 2013, the full gross proceeds had been spent.
In June 2013, holders of 60,000 of the
Companys 72,000 palladium warrants exercised their warrants. In settlement of the warrants, the Company issued approximately 0.6 million common shares at an average price of approximately $1.11 per share in June and paid
approximately $1.7 million in cash in July.
In June 2013, the Company completed a US$130 million secured term loan financing that bears interest at
15% per annum and is due June 7, 2017. A portion of the proceeds from the term loan were used to repay existing senior indebtedness. The loan is secured by first priority security on the fixed assets and second priority security on
accounts receivable and inventory. The Company has the option to accrue interest during the first two years of the loan; in which case, the interest rate on the loan and accrued interest would increase by 4%. The loan contains covenants typical of
this type of facility including senior debt to EBITDA ratios, minimum tangible net worth requirements and capital expenditure limits.
In June 2013, the
Company extended its US$60 million revolving operating line of credit by an additional year to July 4, 2014. The credit facility is secured by a first priority security on the Companys accounts receivables and inventories and a
second priority security on all other assets.
15
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
The Companys senior secured term loan and credit facility contain several financial covenants which, if
not met, would result in an event of default. This debt also includes certain other covenants, including limits on liens, material adverse change provisions and cross-default provisions. Certain events of default result in this debt becoming
immediately due. Other events of default entitle the lender to demand repayment. At December 31, 2013, the Company was in violation of certain covenants of its senior secured term loan and credit facility for which waivers were not obtained
from the lenders until subsequent to the year-end reporting date. At December 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all covenants.
The
Companys liquidity may be adversely affected by operating performance, a downturn in capital market conditions impacting access to capital markets or entity specific conditions. The Companys liquidity is dependent on a number of
variables including, but not limited to, metal prices, operational costs, capital expenditures, and meeting production targets. Adverse changes in any of these variables may impact the Companys liquidity position. The Company expects cash
flows from operations to be sufficient to support the Companys normal operating requirements, including capital expenditures and debt service payments, for the next 12 months.
The Company has $18.8 million of finance leases funding equipment for operations. Please also see the contractual obligations below for additional
commitments.
Contractual Obligations
Contractual
obligations are comprised as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As at December 31, 2014 |
|
Payments Due by Period |
|
($millions) |
|
Total |
|
|
1-3 Years |
|
|
3-5 Years |
|
|
5+ Years |
|
Credit facility |
|
$ |
36.8 |
|
|
$ |
36.8 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Finance lease obligations |
|
|
18.8 |
|
|
|
14.6 |
|
|
|
4.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Operating leases |
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long term debt |
|
|
226.1 |
|
|
|
7.3 |
|
|
|
218.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase obligations |
|
|
5.1 |
|
|
|
5.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
289.6 |
|
|
$ |
66.6 |
|
|
$ |
223.0 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In addition to the above, the Company has asset retirement obligations at December 31, 2014 in the amount of $15.8
million for the LDI Mine, contractual obligations reflected in accounts payable and obligations related to its credit facility and long-term debt. The Company obtained letters of credit of $14.1 million as financial surety for these future outlays.
Contingencies and Commitments
Please refer to notes
17 and 20 of the Companys Financial Statements.
Related Party Transactions
There were no related party transactions for the period ended December 31, 2014.
OUTSTANDING SHARE DATA
As of February 18, 2015, there were 391,504,431 common shares of the Company outstanding. In addition, there were options outstanding pursuant to the
Corporate Stock Option Plan entitling holders thereof to acquire 5,415,342 common shares of the Company at a weighted average exercise price of $0.97 per share.
At February 18, 2015, $1.0 million and $43.0 million of 2014 and 2012 convertible debentures were outstanding and were convertible into approximately
3.2 million and 14.8 million common shares respectively.
In conjunction with the 2014 convertible debentures, approximately 35.7 million
common share purchase warrants at an exercise price of $0.5786 per share were issued and remain outstanding as of February 18, 2015.
16
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Critical accounting policies generally include
estimates that are highly uncertain and for which changes in those estimates could materially impact the Companys financial statements. The following accounting policies are considered critical:
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in
conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates, and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amount of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the
date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the year. Significant estimates and assumptions relate to recoverability of mining operations and mineral exploration properties. While management
believes that these estimates and assumptions are reasonable, actual results could vary significantly.
Certain assumptions are dependent
upon reserves, which represent the estimated amount of ore that can be economically and legally extracted from the Companys properties. In order to estimate reserves, assumptions are required about a range of geological, technical and economic
factors, including quantities, grades, production techniques, recovery rates, production costs, transportation costs, commodity prices and exchange rates. Estimating the quantity and/or grade of reserves requires the size, shape and depth of ore
bodies to be determined by analyzing geological data such as drilling samples. This process may require complex and difficult geological judgments to interpret the data. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis.
Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period they are determined and in any future periods affected.
Because the
economic assumptions used to estimate reserves change from period to period, and because additional geological data is generated during the course of operations, estimates of reserves may change from period to period. Changes in reported reserves
may affect the Companys financial results and financial position in a number of ways, including the following:
|
|
|
Asset carrying values including mining interests may be affected due to changes in estimated future cash flows; |
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization charged in the statement of operations may change or be impacted where such charges are determined by the units of production basis, or where the useful economic lives of
assets change; |
|
|
|
Decommissioning, site restoration and environmental provisions may change where changes in estimated reserves affect expectations about the timing or cost of these activities; and |
|
|
|
The carrying value of deferred tax assets may change due to changes in estimates of the likely recovery of the tax benefits. |
b. |
Impairment assessments of long-lived assets |
The carrying amounts of the
Companys non-financial assets, excluding inventories and deferred tax assets, are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. Impairment is assessed at the level of cash-generating units
(CGUs). An impairment loss is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for any excess of carrying amount over the recoverable amount.
Impairment is determined for an individual asset unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are independent of those generated from
other assets or groups of assets, in which case, the individual assets are grouped together into CGUs for impairment purposes.
17
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
The recoverable amount of an asset or CGU is the greater of its value in use,
defined as the discounted present value of the future cash flows expected to arise from its continuing use and its ultimate disposal, and its fair value less costs to sell, defined as the best estimate of the price that would be received
to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, less costs of disposal. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate
that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset.
An impairment loss is recognized
in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss if the carrying amount of an asset or a CGU exceeds its estimated recoverable amount.
Impairment losses recognized in prior periods are assessed at each reporting date for any indications that the loss has decreased or no longer
exists. An impairment loss on non-financial assets other than goodwill is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount, only to the extent that the assets carrying amount does not exceed the
carrying amount that would have been determined, net of amortization, if no impairment loss had been recognized.
c. |
Depreciation and amortization of mining interests |
Mining interests relating to
plant and equipment, mining leases and claims, royalty interests, and other development costs are recorded at cost with depreciation and amortization provided on the unit-of-production method over the estimated remaining ounces of palladium to be
produced based on the proven and probable reserves or, in the event that the Company is mining resources, an appropriate estimate of the resources mined or expected to be mined.
Mining interests relating to small vehicles and certain machinery with a determinable expected life are recorded at cost with depreciation
provided on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, ranging from three to seven years, which most closely reflects the expected pattern of consumption of the future economic benefits embodied in the asset. Straight-line depreciation
is calculated over the depreciable amount, which is the cost of an asset, less its residual value.
Significant components of individual
assets are assessed and, if a component has a useful life that is different from the remainder of that asset, that component is depreciated separately using the unit-of-production or straight-line method as appropriate. Costs relating to land are
not amortized.
Leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and their useful lives unless it is reasonably certain
that the Company will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term.
Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed
at each financial year-end and adjusted if appropriate.
Revenue from the sale of metals in the course of ordinary
activities is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of volume adjustments. Revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence exists, usually in the form of an executed sales agreement, that the significant risks
and rewards of ownership have been transferred to the buyer, recovery of the consideration is probable, the associated costs and possible return of goods can be estimated reliably, there is no continuing management involvement with the goods, and
the amount of revenue can be measured reliably. The timing of the transfers of risks and rewards varies depending on the individual terms of the contract of sale.
18
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Revenue from the sale of palladium and by-product metals from the LDI Mine is provisionally
recognized based on quoted market prices upon the delivery of concentrate to the smelter or designated shipping point, which is when title transfers and significant rights and obligations of ownership pass. The Companys smelter contract
provides for final prices to be determined by quoted market prices in a period subsequent to the date of concentrate delivery. Variations from the provisionally priced sales are recognized as revenue adjustments until final pricing is determined.
Accounts receivable are recorded net of estimated treatment and refining costs, which are subject to final assay adjustments. Subsequent adjustments to provisional pricing amounts due to changes in metal prices and foreign exchange are disclosed
separately from initial revenues in the notes to the financial statements.
e. |
Asset retirement obligations |
In accordance with Company policies, asset
retirement obligations relating to legal and constructive obligations for future site reclamation and closure of the Companys mine sites are recognized when incurred and a liability and corresponding asset are recorded at managements
best estimate. Estimated closure and restoration costs are provided for in the accounting period when the obligation arising from the related disturbance occurs.
The amount of any liability recognized is estimated based on the risk-adjusted costs required to settle present obligations, discounted using a
pre-tax risk-free discount rate consistent with the time period of expected cash flows. When the liability is initially recorded, a corresponding asset retirement cost is recognized as an addition to mining interests and amortized using the unit of
production method.
The liability for each mine site is accreted over time and the accretion charges are recognized as an interest cost in
the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss. The liability is subject to re-measurement at each reporting date based on changes in discount rates and timing or amounts of the costs to be incurred. Changes in the liability, other
than accretion charges, relating to mine rehabilitation and restoration obligations, which are not the result of current production of inventory, are added to or deducted from the carrying value of the related asset retirement cost in the reporting
period recognized. If the change results in a reduction of the obligation in excess of the carrying value of the related asset retirement cost, the excess balance is recognized as a recovery through profit or loss in the period.
Adoption of New Accounting Standards
The following new
accounting standards have been adopted by the Company.
IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation
This standard is amended to clarify requirements for offsetting of financial assets and financial liabilities. The amendment is effective for
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2014. This amendment did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
IAS 36 Recoverable Amounts
This standard was amended in May 2013 to change the disclosure required when an impairment loss is recognized or reversed. The amendments
require the disclosure of the recoverable amount of an asset or cash generating unit at the time an impairment loss has been recognized or reversed and detailed disclosure of how the associated fair value less costs of disposal has been determined.
The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2014 with earlier adoption permitted. This amendment did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
IFRIC 21 Accounting for Levies Imposed by Governments
This interpretation provides guidance on the obligating event giving rise to a liability in connection with a levy imposed by a government, and
clarifies that the obligating event is the activity that triggers the payment of the levy as identified by the legislation. The interpretation is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2014. This amendment did not have a
material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
19
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
New standards and interpretations not yet adopted
The following new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations are not yet effective for the year ended December 31, 2014 or have otherwise not
yet been adopted by the Company. The Company is evaluating the impact, if any; adoption of the standards will have on the disclosures in the Companys consolidated financial statements:
IAS 16 and IAS 38 Clarification of acceptable methods of depreciation and amortization
This pronouncement amends IAS 16 Property Plant and Equipment and IAS 38 Intangible Assets to (i) clarify that the use of a revenue-based
depreciation method is not appropriate for property, plant and equipment, and (ii) provide a rebuttal presumption for intangible assets. The amendment is effective for years beginning on or after January 1, 2016. This amendment is not
expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
IFRS 15 Revenue from contracts with
customers
This new standard on revenue recognition supercedes IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts, and related
interpretations. The amendment is effective for years beginning on or after January 1, 2017. The Company is presently evaluating the potential impact of this new standard on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement
On July 24, 2014 the IASB issued the complete IFRS 9 (IFRS 9 (2014)) which will replace IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition
and Measurement. In November 2009 the IASB issued the first version of IFRS 9, Financial Instruments (IFRS 9 (2009)) and subsequently issued various amendments in October 2010, (IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (2010)) and
November 2013 (IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (2013)).
IFRS 9 (2009) introduces new requirements for the classification and
measurement of financial assets. Under IFRS 9 (2009), financial assets are classified and measured based on the business model in which they are held and the characteristics of their contractual cash flows. This includes the introduction of a third
measurement category for financial assets fair value through other comprehensive income.
IFRS 9 (2010) introduces additional
changes relating to financial liabilities.
IFRS 9 (2013) includes a new general hedge accounting standard which will align hedge
accounting more closely with risk management. This new standard does not fundamentally change the types of hedging relationships or the requirement to measure and recognize ineffectiveness, however it will provide more hedging strategies that are
used for risk management to qualify for hedge accounting and introduce more judgment to assess the effectiveness of a hedging relationship.
Special transitional requirements have been set for the application of the new general hedging model.
IFRS 9 (2014) includes finalized guidance on the classification and measurement of financial assets. The final standard also amends the
impairment model by introducing a new expected credit loss model for calculating impairment, and new general hedge accounting requirements.
The mandatory effective date of IFRS 9 is for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018 and must be applied retrospectively
with some exemptions. Early adoption is permitted. The restatement of prior periods is not required and is only permitted if information is available without the use of hindsight. The Company is presently evaluating the impact of adopting this
standard and does not intend to early adopt IFRS 9 (2009), IFRS 9 (2010) or IFRS 9 (2013) and/or IFRS 9 (2014) in its financial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2015.
20
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
The risks and uncertainties are discussed within the
Companys most recent Form 40-F/Annual Information Form on file with the SEC and Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities, the Companys Short Form Base Shelf Prospectus filed on December 5, 2014.
INTERNAL CONTROLS
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
Management is
responsible for the information disclosed in this MD&A and has in place the appropriate information systems, procedures and controls to ensure that information used internally by management and disclosed externally is, in all material respects,
complete and reliable.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer certify that they have
designed, or caused to be designed under their supervision, disclosure controls and procedures to provide reasonable assurance that material information relating to the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries would be made known to them by others
within those entities.
The disclosure controls and procedures are evaluated annually through regular internal reviews which are carried out under
the supervision of, and with the participation of, the Companys management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the
design and operation of these disclosure controls were effective as at December 31, 2014.
Internal Control over Financial Reporting
For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer certify that they have designed, or caused to be designed
under their supervision, internal controls over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS as
issued by the IASB.
There have been no changes in the Companys internal controls over the financial reporting that occurred during the year ended
December 31, 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Companys internal control over financial reporting.
Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting, no
matter how well designed, has inherent limitations and can only provide reasonable assurance, not absolute assurance, with respect to the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements and management does not expect such
controls will prevent or detect all misstatements due to error or fraud. The Company is continually evolving and enhancing its systems of controls and procedures.
Under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, management performs regular internal reviews
and conducts an annual evaluation of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway
Commission (2013). Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of these internal controls over financial reporting were effective as of December 31, 2014.
OTHER INFORMATION
Additional information regarding the Company is included in the Companys Annual Information Form and Annual Report on Form 40-F, which are filed
with the SEC and the provincial securities regulatory authorities, respectively. A copy of the Companys Annual Information Form is posted on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com. A copy of the Annual Report on Form 40-F can be obtained from
the SECs website at www.sec.gov.
21
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
NON-IFRS MEASURES
This MD&A refers to cash cost per ounce, adjusted
net loss, EBITDA and adjusted EBITDA which are not recognized measures under IFRS. Such Non-IFRS financial measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by
other issuers. Management uses these measures internally. The use of these measures enables management to better assess performance trends. Management understands that a number of investors, and others who follow the Companys performance,
assess performance in this way. Management believes that these measures better reflect the Companys performance and are better indications of its expected performance in future periods. This data is intended to provide additional information
and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.
2013 was a transition year for
the Company as it was sinking the shaft and completing related infrastructure at the same time it was developing and transitioning to mining the Offset zone. As a result, the 2013 financial results would not be directly comparable to the prior or
future years.
The following tables reconcile these non-IFRS measures to the most directly comparable IFRS measures:
Cash Cost Per Ounce of Palladium
The Company uses this
measure internally to evaluate the underlying operating performance of the Company for the reporting periods presented. The Company believes that providing cash cost per ounce allows the ability to better evaluate the results of the underlying
business of the Company.
Cash cost per ounce include mine site operating costs such as mining, processing, administration and royalties, but are
exclusive of depreciation, amortization, reclamation, capital and exploration costs. Cash cost per ounce calculation is reduced by any by-product revenue and is then divided by ounces sold to arrive at the by-product cash cost per ounce of sales.
This measure, along with revenues, is considered to be a key indicator of a Companys ability to generate operating earnings and cash flow from its mining operations.
The Companys primary operation relates to the extraction of palladium metal. Therefore, all other metals extracted in conjunction with the palladium
metal are considered to be a by-product credit for the purposes of the cash cost calculation.
Reconciliation of Palladium Cash Cost per Ounce
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|
For the three months ended |
|
|
For the year ended December 31 |
|
($millions except ounce and per ounce amounts) |
|
Dec 31 2014 |
|
|
Sep 30 2014 |
|
|
Jun 30 2014 |
|
|
Mar 31 2014 |
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Production costs including overhead |
|
$ |
40.5 |
|
|
$ |
30.1 |
|
|
$ |
30.4 |
|
|
$ |
29.7 |
|
|
$ |
130.7 |
|
|
$ |
107.5 |
|
Smelting, refining and freight costs |
|
|
6.7 |
|
|
|
4.0 |
|
|
|
4.1 |
|
|
|
4.2 |
|
|
|
19.0 |
|
|
|
14.0 |
|
Royalty expense |
|
|
3.0 |
|
|
|
1.8 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
|
|
9.1 |
|
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|
6.5 |
|
|
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|
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|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
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|
Operational expenses |
|
|
50.2 |
|
|
|
35.9 |
|
|
|
36.7 |
|
|
|
36.0 |
|
|
|
158.8 |
|
|
|
128.0 |
|
Less by-product metal revenue |
|
|
19.5 |
|
|
|
12.5 |
|
|
|
14.1 |
|
|
|
14.6 |
|
|
|
60.7 |
|
|
|
50.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
30.7 |
|
|
$ |
23.4 |
|
|
$ |
22.6 |
|
|
$ |
21.4 |
|
|
$ |
98.1 |
|
|
$ |
77.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
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|
|
Divided by ounces of palladium sold |
|
|
57,256 |
|
|
|
36,430 |
|
|
|
40,716 |
|
|
|
39,485 |
|
|
|
173,887 |
|
|
|
134,955 |
|
Cash cost per ounce (CDN$) |
|
$ |
537 |
|
|
$ |
642 |
|
|
$ |
554 |
|
|
$ |
541 |
|
|
$ |
564 |
|
|
$ |
577 |
|
Average exchange rate (CDN$1 US$) |
|
|
0.88 |
|
|
|
0.92 |
|
|
|
0.92 |
|
|
|
0.91 |
|
|
|
0.91 |
|
|
|
0.97 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
Cash cost per ounce (US$), net of by-product credits |
|
$ |
473 |
|
|
$ |
589 |
|
|
$ |
510 |
|
|
$ |
492 |
|
|
$ |
513 |
|
|
$ |
560 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
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|
22
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Adjusted EBITDA
The Company believes that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are valuable indicators of the Companys ability to generate operating cash flow to fund working
capital needs, service debt obligations, and fund capital expenditures.
EBITDA excludes the impact of the cost of financing activities and taxes, and the
effects of changes in operating working capital balances, and therefore is not necessarily indicative of operating profit or cash flow from operations as determined under IFRS.
Other companies may calculate EBITDA differently. Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure, which excludes the following from loss: income and mining
tax expense; interest expense and other costs, net; depreciation and amortization; exploration; mine start-up and closure costs; asset impairment charges and insurance recoveries; one-time costs (mine restoration costs due to flood and retirement
payments); and, foreign exchange loss (gain).
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For the three months ended |
|
|
For the year ended December 31 |
|
($millions) |
|
Dec 31 2014 |
|
|
Sep 30 2014 |
|
|
Jun 30 2014 |
|
|
Mar 31 2014 |
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Loss and comprehensive loss from continuing operations for the year |
|
$ |
(11.2 |
) |
|
$ |
(18.8 |
) |
|
$ |
(10.0 |
) |
|
$ |
(26.7 |
) |
|
$ |
(66.7 |
) |
|
$ |
(48.7 |
) |
Income and mining tax recovery |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2.2 |
) |
Interest and other income |
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
(1.5 |
) |
|
|
(2.7 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(4.7 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Interest expense and other costs |
|
|
10.1 |
|
|
|
10.2 |
|
|
|
16.0 |
|
|
|
13.3 |
|
|
|
49.6 |
|
|
|
6.9 |
|
Financing costs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
|
|
4.4 |
|
|
|
4.0 |
|
|
|
7.5 |
|
|
|
3.7 |
|
Loss on extinguishment of debt |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.0 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
12.2 |
|
|
|
6.9 |
|
|
|
8.2 |
|
|
|
10.4 |
|
|
|
37.7 |
|
|
|
25.5 |
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
EBITDA |
|
$ |
10.6 |
|
|
$ |
(4.1 |
) |
|
$ |
15.9 |
|
|
$ |
1.0 |
|
|
$ |
23.4 |
|
|
$ |
(3.8 |
) |
Exploration |
|
|
3.1 |
|
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
1.9 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
8.3 |
|
|
|
12.3 |
|
Insurance recoveries, net of mine restoration costs and retirement payments |
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
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|
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|
(1.3 |
) |
Inventory price adjustment |
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
Foreign exchange loss (gain) |
|
|
7.9 |
|
|
|
9.8 |
|
|
|
(7.4 |
) |
|
|
8.0 |
|
|
|
18.3 |
|
|
|
7.4 |
|
|
|
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|
|
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|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adjusted EBITDA |
|
$ |
21.6 |
|
|
$ |
8.3 |
|
|
$ |
10.4 |
|
|
$ |
9.7 |
|
|
$ |
50.0 |
|
|
$ |
15.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
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|
|
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23
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Adjusted Net Working Capital and Proforma Condensed Balance Sheet
This MD&A refers to adjusted net working capital which is not a recognized measure under IFRS. The table below also refers to adjusted current liabilities
and adjusted non-current liabilities which are also not recognized measures under IFRS. Such Non-IFRS financial measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures
presented by other issuers. Adjusted net working capital, adjusted current liabilities and adjusted non-current liabilities are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of
performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.
As at December 31, 2013, the Company had not obtained a waiver from Brookfield regarding a cured
covenant breach that occurred prior to year end. Such waivers were received by the Company subsequent to December 31, 2013. Management believes the balance sheet presentation does not reflect the liquidity position of the Company at
December 31, 2013. Had the waiver been obtained prior to year end, the Companys proforma condensed consolidated balance sheet and adjusted net working capital (deficit) surplus would have been:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
($millions) |
|
As at December 31 2014(1) |
|
|
Proforma As at December 31 2013(1) |
|
Current assets |
|
$ |
98.0 |
|
|
$ |
69.6 |
|
Non-current assets |
|
|
452.8 |
|
|
|
456.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
550.8 |
|
|
$ |
525.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adjusted current liabilities(2) |
|
$ |
77.5 |
|
|
$ |
70.1 |
|
Adjusted non-current liabilities(3) |
|
|
248.9 |
|
|
|
233.2 |
|
Shareholders equity |
|
|
224.4 |
|
|
|
222.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
550.8 |
|
|
$ |
525.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net working capital (deficit) |
|
$ |
20.5 |
|
|
$ |
(174.2 |
) |
Adjusted net working capital (deficit) surplus(4) |
|
$ |
20.5 |
|
|
$ |
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
No non-IFRS adjustments have been made to the December 31, 2014. They have been provided for comparison purposes only. Other than as noted by the term adjusted and footnotes, amounts shown as at
December 31, 2013 are IFRS amounts. |
(2) |
IFRS current liabilities as at December 31, 2013 totaled $243.8 million After reducing for the current portion of long-term debt of $173.7 million, adjusted current liabilities amount to $70.1 million.
|
(3) |
IFRS non-current liabilities as at December 31, 2013 totaled $59.5 million. After increasing for the current portion of long-term debt of $173.7 million, adjusted non-current liabilities amount to $233.2 million.
|
(4) |
Adjusted net working capital (deficit) surplus is determined by subtracting adjusted current liabilities from current assets. |
24
2014 Annual Report
Exhibit 1.3
North American Palladium Ltd.
Managements Responsibility
for Financial Statements
The accompanying
consolidated financial statements have been prepared by management in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the IASB. Financial statements include certain amounts based on estimates and judgments. When an
alternative method exists under IFRS, management has chosen that which it deems most appropriate in the circumstances in order to ensure that the consolidated financial statements are presented fairly, in all material respects, in accordance with
IFRS. The financial information presented elsewhere in the annual report is consistent with that in the consolidated financial statements.
The Company
maintains adequate systems of internal accounting and administrative controls. Such systems are designed to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are properly authorized and recorded, the Companys assets are appropriately accounted
for and adequately safeguarded and that the financial information is relevant and reliable.
The Board of Directors of the Company is responsible for
ensuring that management fulfills its responsibilities for financial reporting, and is ultimately responsible for reviewing and approving the consolidated financial statements and the accompanying managements discussion and analysis. The Board
of Directors carries out this responsibility principally through its Audit Committee.
The Audit Committee is appointed by the Board of Directors and all
of its members are non-management directors. The Audit Committee meets periodically with management and the external auditors to discuss internal controls, auditing matters and financial reporting issues, and to satisfy itself that each party is
properly discharging its responsibilities. The Audit Committee also reviews the consolidated financial statements, managements discussion and analysis, the external auditors report, examines the fees and expenses for audit services, and
considers the engagement or reappointment of the external auditors. The Audit Committee reports its findings to the Board of Directors for its consideration when approving the consolidated financial statements for issuance to the shareholders. KPMG
LLP, the external auditors, have full and free access to the Audit Committee.
|
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|
Toronto, Canada |
|
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|
February 18, 2015 |
|
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|
Phil du Toit |
|
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|
Dave Langille |
|
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|
CEO |
|
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|
CFO |
1
2014 Annual Report
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KPMG LLP |
|
Telephone |
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|
(416) 777-8500 |
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|
Bay Adelaide Centre |
|
Fax |
|
|
(416) 777-8818 |
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333 Bay Street Suite 4600 |
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Internet |
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|
www.kpmg.ca |
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Toronto ON M5H 2S5 |
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Canada |
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INDEPENDENT AUDITORS REPORT
To the Shareholders of North American Palladium Ltd.
We have
audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of North American Palladium Ltd., which comprise the consolidated balance sheets as at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the consolidated statements of operations and
comprehensive loss, shareholders equity and cash flows for the years then ended, and notes, comprising a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.
Managements Responsibility for the Consolidated Financial Statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free from material
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditors Responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian
generally accepted auditing standards and the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance
about whether the consolidated financial statements are free from material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence
about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on our judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud
or error. In making those risk assessments, we consider internal control relevant to the entitys preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the
circumstances. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial
statements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
Opinion
In our opinion, the
consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of North American Palladium Ltd. as at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and its consolidated financial performance and
its consolidated cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
|
|
|
Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants |
February 18, 2015 |
Toronto, Canada |
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|
KPMG LLP is a Canadian limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG
network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative
(KPMG International), a Swiss entity. KPMG Canada
provides services to KPMG LLP. |
|
|
2
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(expressed in millions of Canadian dollars)
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notes |
|
December 31 2014 |
|
|
December 31 2013 |
|
ASSETS |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
|
$ |
4.1 |
|
|
$ |
9.8 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
5 |
|
|
75.4 |
|
|
|
38.6 |
|
Inventories |
|
6 |
|
|
14.9 |
|
|
|
14.2 |
|
Other assets |
|
7 |
|
|
3.6 |
|
|
|
7.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Current Assets |
|
|
|
|
98.0 |
|
|
|
69.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-current Assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mining interests |
|
8 |
|
|
452.8 |
|
|
|
456.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Non-current Assets |
|
|
|
|
452.8 |
|
|
|
456.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets |
|
|
|
$ |
550.8 |
|
|
$ |
525.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current Liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities |
|
|
|
$ |
28.8 |
|
|
$ |
48.8 |
|
Credit facility |
|
10 |
|
|
36.8 |
|
|
|
17.8 |
|
Current portion of obligations under finance leases |
|
11 |
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
3.0 |
|
Current portion of long-term debt |
|
12 |
|
|
7.3 |
|
|
|
173.7 |
|
Current derivative liability |
|
12 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Current Liabilities |
|
|
|
|
77.5 |
|
|
|
243.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Non-current Liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income taxes payable |
|
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
Asset retirement obligations |
|
9 |
|
|
15.8 |
|
|
|
13.6 |
|
Obligations under finance leases |
|
11 |
|
|
14.2 |
|
|
|
8.7 |
|
Long-term debt |
|
12 |
|
|
218.8 |
|
|
|
35.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Non-current Liabilities |
|
|
|
|
248.9 |
|
|
|
59.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shareholders Equity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common share capital and purchase warrants |
|
14 |
|
|
866.4 |
|
|
|
798.4 |
|
Stock options and related surplus |
|
|
|
|
9.7 |
|
|
|
9.1 |
|
Equity component of convertible debentures, net of issue costs |
|
12 |
|
|
6.9 |
|
|
|
6.9 |
|
Contributed surplus |
|
|
|
|
8.9 |
|
|
|
8.9 |
|
Deficit |
|
|
|
|
(667.5 |
) |
|
|
(600.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Shareholders Equity |
|
|
|
|
224.4 |
|
|
|
222.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Shareholders Equity |
|
|
|
$ |
550.8 |
|
|
$ |
525.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commitments and contingencies Notes 17 and 20
Subsequent event Note 23
See accompanying notes
to the consolidated financial statements
On Behalf of the Board of Directors
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert J. Quinn, Director |
|
|
|
Greg Van Staveren, Director |
3
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Consolidated Statements of Operations and
Comprehensive Loss
(expressed in
millions of Canadian dollars, except share and per share amounts)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notes |
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Revenue |
|
18 |
|
$ |
220.1 |
|
|
$ |
153.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mining operating expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Production costs |
|
|
|
|
130.7 |
|
|
|
107.5 |
|
Smelting, refining and freight costs |
|
|
|
|
19.0 |
|
|
|
14.0 |
|
Royalty expense |
|
|
|
|
9.1 |
|
|
|
6.5 |
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
|
|
37.7 |
|
|
|
25.5 |
|
Inventory pricing adjustment |
|
6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
Loss on disposal of equipment |
|
|
|
|
1.7 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total mining operating expenses |
|
|
|
|
198.2 |
|
|
|
154.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income (loss) from mining operations |
|
|
|
|
21.9 |
|
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other expenses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exploration |
|
|
|
|
8.3 |
|
|
|
12.3 |
|
General and administration |
|
|
|
|
9.6 |
|
|
|
10.8 |
|
Interest and other income |
|
19 |
|
|
(4.7 |
) |
|
|
(2.0 |
) |
Interest expense and other costs |
|
19 |
|
|
49.6 |
|
|
|
6.9 |
|
Financing costs |
|
|
|
|
7.5 |
|
|
|
3.7 |
|
Loss on extinguishment of long-term debt |
|
12 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.0 |
|
Foreign exchange loss |
|
|
|
|
18.3 |
|
|
|
7.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total other expenses |
|
|
|
|
88.6 |
|
|
|
50.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss from continuing operations before taxes |
|
|
|
|
(66.7 |
) |
|
|
(50.9 |
) |
Income tax recovery |
|
21 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss and comprehensive loss from continuing operations for the year |
|
|
|
$ |
(66.7 |
) |
|
$ |
(48.7 |
) |
Income and comprehensive income from discontinued operations for the year |
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss and comprehensive loss for the year |
|
|
|
$ |
(66.7 |
) |
|
$ |
(46.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic and Diluted |
|
14(e) |
|
$ |
(0.20 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.25 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss from continuing operations per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic and Diluted |
|
|
|
$ |
(0.20 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.26 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income from discontinued operations per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic and Diluted |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.01 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average number of shares outstanding |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic |
|
14(e) |
|
|
338,818,180 |
|
|
|
187,150,369 |
|
Diluted |
|
14(e) |
|
|
339,344,513 |
|
|
|
187,176,329 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
4
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(expressed in millions of Canadian dollars)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notes |
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Cash provided by (used in) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Loss from continuing operations for the year |
|
|
|
$ |
(66.7 |
) |
|
$ |
(48.7 |
) |
Operating items not involving cash |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization |
|
|
|
|
37.7 |
|
|
|
25.5 |
|
Inventory pricing adjustment |
|
6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
Accretion expense |
|
19 |
|
|
3.2 |
|
|
|
3.6 |
|
Loss on extinguishment of long-term debt |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.0 |
|
Share-based compensation and employee benefits |
|
14(g) |
|
|
2.0 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
Unrealized foreign exchange loss |
|
|
|
|
15.7 |
|
|
|
7.0 |
|
Loss on disposal of equipment |
|
|
|
|
1.7 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
Interest expense and other |
|
|
|
|
40.6 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
Financing costs |
|
|
|
|
7.5 |
|
|
|
3.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
41.7 |
|
|
|
6.7 |
|
Changes in non-cash working capital |
|
22 |
|
|
(53.2 |
) |
|
|
(0.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(11.5 |
) |
|
|
6.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Issuance of common shares and warrants, net of issue costs |
|
14(c) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
18.9 |
|
Issuance of convertible debentures, net of issue costs |
|
12 |
|
|
61.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Credit facility |
|
10 |
|
|
15.9 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Repayment of senior secured notes |
|
12 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(79.2 |
) |
Settlement of palladium warrants |
|
12 |
|
|
(1.1 |
) |
|
|
(1.7 |
) |
Net proceeds of senior secured term loan |
|
12 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
147.8 |
|
Repayment of obligations under finance leases |
|
11 |
|
|
(3.4 |
) |
|
|
(2.9 |
) |
Interest paid |
|
|
|
|
(41.4 |
) |
|
|
(8.4 |
) |
Other |
|
|
|
|
(1.8 |
) |
|
|
(3.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
29.4 |
|
|
|
71.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investing Activities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions to mining interests, net |
|
8 |
|
|
(23.8 |
) |
|
|
(109.5 |
) |
Proceeds on disposal of mining interests, net |
|
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
1.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(23.6 |
) |
|
|
(108.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in cash from continuing operations |
|
|
|
|
(5.7 |
) |
|
|
(30.5 |
) |
Net cash provided by discontinued operations |
|
4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
20.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Decrease in cash |
|
|
|
|
(5.7 |
) |
|
|
(10.4 |
) |
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year |
|
|
|
|
9.8 |
|
|
|
20.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year |
|
|
|
$ |
4.1 |
|
|
$ |
9.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents consisting of: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash |
|
|
|
$ |
4.1 |
|
|
$ |
9.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign exchange included in cash balance |
|
|
|
$ |
0.3 |
|
|
$ |
0.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
5
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders Equity
(expressed in millions of Canadian dollars, except share amounts)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notes |
|
Number of shares |
|
|
Capital stock |
|
|
Stock options |
|
|
Equity component of convertible debentures |
|
|
Contributed surplus |
|
|
Deficit |
|
|
Total shareholders equity |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance, January 1, 2013 |
|
|
|
|
177,127,833 |
|
|
$ |
776.6 |
|
|
$ |
9.1 |
|
|
$ |
6.9 |
|
|
$ |
8.9 |
|
|
$ |
(554.6 |
) |
|
$ |
246.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common shares issued: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Settlement of obligation relating to production targets |
|
14(h) |
|
|
709,220 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
Settlement of NAP Quebec disposal costs |
|
4 |
|
|
203,800 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
Private placement of flow-through shares, net of issue costs |
|
14(c) |
|
|
17,258,337 |
|
|
|
19.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
19.0 |
|
Premium on issuance of flow-through shares |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Warrants: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Palladium warrants exercised |
|
12 |
|
|
574,738 |
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock based compensation: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock-based compensation |
|
14(b) |
|
|
1,235,996 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
Net loss and comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2013 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(46.2 |
) |
|
|
(46.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance, December 31, 2013 |
|
|
|
|
197,109,924 |
|
|
$ |
798.4 |
|
|
$ |
9.1 |
|
|
$ |
6.9 |
|
|
$ |
8.9 |
|
|
$ |
(600.8 |
) |
|
$ |
222.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common shares issued: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Pursuant to conversion of convertible debentures (Tranche 1) |
|
12 |
|
|
76,407,816 |
|
|
|
30.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
30.9 |
|
Pursuant to conversion of convertible debentures (Tranche 2) |
|
12 |
|
|
108,972,404 |
|
|
|
35.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
35.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock based compensation: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stock-based compensation |
|
14(b)(d) |
|
|
4,024,633 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.0 |
|
Net loss and comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(66.7 |
) |
|
|
(66.7 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance, December 31, 2014 |
|
|
|
|
386,514,777 |
|
|
$ |
866.4 |
|
|
$ |
9.7 |
|
|
$ |
6.9 |
|
|
$ |
8.9 |
|
|
$ |
(667.5 |
) |
|
$ |
224.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
6
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(expressed in millions of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts and metal prices)
North American Palladium Ltd. (NAP) is domiciled in Canada and was incorporated on September 12, 1991 under the Canadian Business Corporations
Act. The address of the Companys registered office is 200 Bay Street, Suite 2350, Royal Bank Plaza South Tower, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5J 2J2. The Companys 100%-owned subsidiary is Lac des Iles Mines Ltd. (LDI).
NAP operates the LDI palladium mine, located northwest of Thunder Bay, Ontario, which started producing palladium in 1993. The Company has transitioned the
LDI mine from mining via ramp access to mining via shaft while utilizing bulk mining methods.
The Company also previously held 100% ownership of NAP
Quebec Mines Ltd. (NAP Quebec), and on March 22, 2013, the Company completed the sale of NAP Quebec resulting in the disposition of all gold division assets. Refer to note 4.
The consolidated financial statements for the Company include the Company and its subsidiary (collectively referred to as the Company).
Statement of Compliance
These consolidated financial
statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), applicable to the preparation of these financial
statements, including IAS 1, Presentation of Financial Statements.
These consolidated financial statements were authorized for issuance by the Board of
Directors of the Company on February 18, 2015.
Basis of Measurement
These consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the historical cost basis, except for the following items in the consolidated balance sheet:
|
(i) |
Accounts receivable are measured at fair value. |
|
(ii) |
Financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss are measured at fair value. |
|
(iii) |
Liabilities for cash-settled share-based payment arrangements are measured at fair value. |
Functional and
Presentation Currency
These consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, which is the Companys and its subsidiarys
functional currency. All financial information is expressed in millions of Canadian dollars, except share and per share amounts.
7
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Use of Judgments and Estimates
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates, and assumptions that affect
the application of accounting policies and the reported amount of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses
during the year. Significant estimates and assumptions relate to recoverability of mining operations and mineral exploration properties. While management believes that these estimates and assumptions are reasonable, actual results could vary
significantly.
Information about critical judgments in applying accounting policies
that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements is included in the following notes:
Note 9 Asset retirement obligations and reclamation deposits
|
(b) |
Key estimates and assumptions |
Certain assumptions are dependent upon reserves, which
represent the estimated amount of ore that can be economically and legally extracted from the Companys properties. In order to estimate reserves, assumptions are required about a range of geological, technical and economic factors, including
quantities, grades, production techniques, recovery rates, production costs, transportation costs, commodity prices and exchange rates. Estimating the quantity and/or grade of reserves requires the size, shape and depth of ore bodies to be
determined by analyzing geological data such as drilling samples. This process may require complex and difficult geological judgments to interpret the data. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to
accounting estimates are recognized in the period they are determined and in any future periods affected.
Because the economic assumptions
used to estimate reserves change from period to period and additional geological data is generated during the course of operations, estimates of reserves may change from period to period. Changes in reported reserves may affect the Companys
financial results and financial position in a number of ways, including the following:
|
(i) |
The Companys estimates of recoverable amounts of mining interests may be affected due to changes in estimated future cash flows; |
|
(ii) |
Depreciation and amortization charged in the statement of operations may change or be impacted where such charges are determined by the units of production basis, or where the useful economic lives of
assets change; |
|
(iii) |
Decommissioning, site restoration and environmental provisions may change where changes in estimated reserves affect expectations about the timing or cost of these activities; and |
|
(iv) |
The carrying value of deferred tax assets may change due to changes in estimates of the likely recovery of the tax benefits. |
Information about assumptions is included in the following note:
Note 5 Accounts receivable
8
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
3. |
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently by all Companys entities for all periods presented in these consolidated financial
statements, unless otherwise indicated.
Basis of Consolidation
These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of NAP and its wholly-owned subsidiary.
|
(a) |
Business combinations |
The Company measures goodwill as the fair value of the
consideration transferred including the recognized amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree, less the fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, all measured as of the acquisition date. When the excess is
negative, a bargain purchase gain is recognized immediately in profit or loss.
The Company elects on a transaction-by-transaction basis
whether to measure non-controlling interest at its fair value, or at its proportionate share of the recognized amount of the identifiable net assets, at the acquisition date.
Transaction costs, other than those directly associated with the issue of debt or equity securities, that the Company incurs in connection with
a business combination are expensed as incurred.
Subsidiaries are entities controlled by NAP. The financial statements of
subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.
|
(c) |
Transactions eliminated on consolidation |
Inter-company balances and transactions and
any unrealized income and expenses arising from inter-company transactions are eliminated in preparing the consolidated financial statements.
Foreign
Currency Translations
The reporting and functional currency of the Company and its subsidiaries is the Canadian dollar. Accordingly, the Company
translates monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency at the rate of exchange prevailing at the consolidated balance sheet dates, non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency at the rate in effect at the
date the transaction occurred and revenues and expenses denominated in foreign currency at the exchange rate in effect during the applicable accounting period. All resulting foreign exchange gains and losses are recorded in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss.
Financial Instruments
(a) |
Non-derivative financial assets |
The Company initially recognizes loans and receivables
and deposits on the date they originated. All other financial assets (including assets designated at fair value through profit or loss) are recognized initially on the trade date at which the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of
the instrument.
Financial instruments are measured on initial recognition at fair value plus, in the case of instruments other than those
classified as fair value through profit and loss, directly attributable transaction costs.
The Company has the following
non-derivative financial assets: financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and loans and receivables.
A financial asset is
classified at fair value through profit or loss if it is classified as held for trading or is designated as such upon initial recognition. These financial instruments are measured at fair value, and changes therein are recognized in the Consolidated
Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss. The Companys accounts receivable from the sale of palladium and by-product metals from the LDI mine primarily represent the material financial instruments which have been recorded at fair value
through profit or loss (see note 5).
9
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Financial assets classified as loans and receivables are measured subsequent to initial
recognition at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses. The Companys loan and receivables are included in other assets (see note 7). Cash and cash equivalents are stated at fair value and include cash on
account less outstanding cheques, demand deposits and short-term guaranteed investments with original maturities of three months or less.
(b) |
Non-derivative financial liabilities |
The Company initially recognizes debt securities
issued and subordinated liabilities on the date they originated. All other financial liabilities (including liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss) are recognized initially on the trade date at which the Company becomes a party
to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
The Company derecognizes a financial liability when its contractual obligations are
discharged, cancelled or expired. Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the consolidated balance sheet when, and only when, the Company has a legal right to offset the amounts and intends either to settle on a
net basis or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
The Company has the following non-derivative financial
liabilities: long-term debt, finance leases, loans and borrowings, bank overdrafts, credit facilities, and trade and other payables.
Such
financial liabilities are designated initially at fair value through profit or loss, and recognized at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition these financial liabilities are designated at
amortized cost and are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
(c) |
Derivative financial instruments |
The Company holds derivative financial instruments to
minimize its foreign currency and market price exposures. Embedded derivatives are separated from the host contract and accounted for separately if the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract and the embedded derivative are not
closely related, a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative would meet the definition of a derivative, and the combined instrument is not measured at fair value through profit or loss.
Derivatives are recognized initially at fair value and any associated transaction costs are recognized in profit or loss as incurred.
Subsequent to initial recognition, derivatives are measured at fair value, and changes therein are accounted for as described below.
Separable embedded derivatives
Changes in the fair value of separable embedded derivatives are recognized immediately in profit or loss.
Other non-trading derivatives
When a derivative financial instrument is not held for trading and is not designated in a qualifying hedge relationship, all changes in its
fair value are recognized immediately in profit or loss.
Inventories
Concentrate, crushed and broken ore stockpiles, and gold inventory are valued at the lower of average production cost (including an allocation of the
depreciation of production related assets) and net realizable value. Crushed and broken ore stockpiles represent coarse ore that has been extracted from the mine and is available for further processing. The amount of stockpiled ore that is not
expected to be processed within one year, if any, is shown as a long-term asset. Supplies inventory is valued at the lower of average cost and net realizable value.
Gold inventory relating to discontinued operations was comprised of unprocessed ore either in stockpiles or bins, unrecovered gold in either carbon or
solution within the milling circuit, and gold-silver doré bars produced but not sold as at the reporting date.
10
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Mining Interests
Recognition and measurement
Property,
plant and equipment are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses.
Cost includes expenditures that
are directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. The cost of self-constructed assets includes the cost of materials and direct labour, any other costs directly attributable to bringing the assets to a working condition for their intended
use, the costs of dismantling and removing the items and restoring the site on which they are located, and borrowing costs on qualifying assets. Where funds used to finance a major project form part of general borrowings, the Company capitalizes
interest on those borrowings proportionate to the project funds used.
When parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have
different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items or major components of property, plant and equipment.
Spare parts and
servicing equipment are usually carried as inventory and recognized in profit or loss as consumed. However, major spare parts and stand-by equipment qualify as property, plant and equipment when the Company expects to use them during more than one
period. Similarly, if the spare parts and servicing equipment can be used only in connection with an item of property, plant and equipment, they are accounted for as property, plant and equipment.
Exploration costs relating to properties are charged to earnings in the year in which they are incurred. When it is determined that a mining
property can be economically developed as a result of reserve potential and subsequent exploration, expenditures are capitalized. Determination as to reserve potential is based on the results of studies, which indicate whether production from a
property is economically feasible. Upon commencement of commercial production of a development project these costs are amortized using the unit-of-production method over the proven and probable reserves. Capitalized exploration costs, net of salvage
values, relating to a property that is later abandoned or considered uneconomic for the foreseeable future, are written off in the period the decision is made. No amortization is provided in respect of mine development expenditures until
commencement of commercial production. Any production revenue earned prior to commercial production, net of related costs, is offset against the development costs.
Gains and losses on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment are determined by comparing the proceeds from disposal with the
carrying amount of property, plant and equipment, and are recognized within mining operating expenses.
The cost of replacing a part of an item of property, plant and
equipment is recognized at the carrying amount of the item if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the item will flow to the Company and its cost can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of the replaced part is
derecognized. The costs of the day-to-day servicing of property, plant and equipment are recognized in profit or loss as incurred.
(c) |
Depreciation and amortization |
Mining interests relating to plant and equipment, mining
leases and claims, royalty interests, and other development costs are recorded at cost with depreciation and amortization provided on the unit-of-production method over the estimated remaining ounces of palladium to be produced based on the proven
and probable reserves or, in the event that the company is mining resources, an appropriate estimate of the resources mined or expected to be mined.
11
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Mining interests relating to small vehicles and certain machinery with a determinable
expected life are recorded at cost with depreciation provided on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives, ranging from three to seven years, which most closely reflects the expected pattern of consumption of the future economic
benefits embodied in the asset. Straight-line depreciation is calculated over the depreciable amount, which is the cost of an asset, less its residual value.
Significant components of individual assets are assessed and, if a component has a useful life that is different from the remainder of that
asset, that component is depreciated separately using the unit-of-production or straight-line method as appropriate. Costs relating to land are not amortized.
Leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and their useful lives unless it is reasonably certain that the Company will
obtain ownership by the end of the lease term.
Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at each financial
year-end and adjusted if appropriate.
Discontinued operations and assets held for sale
A non-current asset (or disposal group) is reclassified as held for sale and reclassified to current assets if the Company expects that its carrying value will
be recovered principally through a sale transaction and not through its continued use provided that the asset (or disposal group) is available for immediate sale in its present condition and realization of its sale is highly probable. A high
probability of sale is considered to exist when the Company is committed to a plan to sell the asset (or disposal group), has undertaken an active program to actively market the asset (or disposal group) and locate a buyer at a price reasonable in
relation to fair value of the asset (or disposal group), and expects the sale process to be concluded within one year following the date of reclassification. The assets and liabilities of any subsidiary for which the Company is committed to sell and
for which loss of control of the subsidiary is expected to occur are also reclassified as held for sale.
Any component of the Company which, while in
use, represented one or more cash-generating units (CGUs) of the Company, has been disposed of or classified as held for sale, and represents a major line of business or geographical area of operations or is part of a single plan to
dispose of such a business or operation or is otherwise a subsidiary acquired exclusively for resale is classified as a discontinued operation. The assets, liabilities, comprehensive income, and cash flows relating to a discontinued operation of the
Company are segregated and reported separately from the continuing operations of the Company in the period of reclassification without restatement or re-presentation of comparative periods prior to the reporting period in which the reclassification
occurs.
Impairment
The carrying amounts of the
Companys non-financial assets, excluding inventories and deferred tax assets, are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. Impairment is assessed at the level of CGUs. An impairment loss is
recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss for any excess of carrying amount over the recoverable amount.
Impairment
is determined for an individual asset unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are independent of those generated from other assets or groups of assets, in which case, the individual assets are grouped together into CGUs for impairment
purposes.
The recoverable amount of an asset or CGU is the greater of its value in use, defined as the discounted present value of the future
cash flows expected to arise from its continuing use and its ultimate disposal, and its fair value less costs to sell, defined as the best estimate of the price that would be received to sell an asset in an orderly transaction between
market participants at the measurement date, less costs of disposal. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time
value of money and the risks specific to the asset.
12
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
An impairment loss is recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss if the
carrying amount of an asset or a CGU exceeds its estimated recoverable amount.
Impairment losses recognized in prior periods are assessed at each
reporting date for any indications that the loss has decreased or no longer exists. An impairment loss on non-financial assets other than goodwill is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount, only
to the extent that the assets carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of amortization, if no impairment loss had been recognized.
Mining Interests - Open Pit Mining Costs
In open pit
mining operations, it is necessary to remove overburden and other waste materials to access ore from which minerals can be extracted economically. The process of mining overburden and waste materials is referred to as stripping. Stripping costs
generate a future economic benefit by providing (i) access to ore to be mined in the future; (ii) increases the fair value of the mine (or pit) as access to future mineral reserves becomes less costly; and (iii) increases the
productive capacity or extends the productive life of the mine (or pit). For production phase stripping costs that are expected to generate a future economic benefit, the current period stripping costs are capitalized as open pit mine development
costs.
Stripping costs incurred during the production stage of a pit are accounted for as costs of the inventory produced during the period that the
stripping costs were incurred, unless these costs are expected to provide a future economic benefit.
Capitalized open pit mine development costs are
depreciated once the open pit has entered production and the future economic benefit is being derived. Capitalized open pit mine development costs are depreciated using the unit of production method over the life of the ore body to which
accessibility has been improved by the stripping activity.
Employee benefits
Defined contribution plans
A defined contribution plan is a post-employment benefit plan under which an entity pays fixed contributions into a separate entity and will
have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further amounts. Obligations for contributions to defined contribution pension plans are recognized as an employee benefit expense in profit or loss in the periods during which services are rendered by
employees. Prepaid contributions are recognized as an asset to the extent that a cash refund or a reduction in future payments is available. Contributions to a defined contribution plan that are due more than 12 months after the end of the period in
which the employees render the service are discounted to their present value.
Compensation Agreements
Share-based payment transactions
The grant date fair value of equity-classified share-based payment awards granted to employees is recognized as an employee expense, with a
corresponding increase in equity, over the period that the employees unconditionally become entitled to the awards. The amount recognized as an expense is adjusted to reflect the number of awards for which the related service are expected to be met,
such that the amount ultimately recognized as an expense is based on the number of awards that do meet the related service and non-market performance conditions at the vesting date.
13
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
The Company has a Restricted Share Unit (RSU) plan under which eligible
directors, officers and key employees of the Company are entitled to receive awards of restricted share units. Each restricted share unit is equivalent in value to the fair market value of a common share of the Company on the date of the award and a
corresponding liability is established on the balance sheet. The value of each award is charged to compensation expense over the period of vesting. At each reporting date, the compensation expense and liability are adjusted to reflect the changes in
market value of the liability based on the fair values of RSUs for each vesting period determined using the Black-Scholes model.
Share-based payment arrangements in which the Company receives goods or services as consideration for its own equity instruments are accounted
for as equity-settled share-based payment transactions, regardless of how the equity instruments are obtained by the Company.
Provisions
A provision is recognized if, as a result of a past event, the Company has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is
probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money
and the risks specific to the liability.
(a) |
Asset Retirement Obligations |
In accordance with Company policies, asset retirement
obligations (ARO) relating to legal and constructive obligations for future site reclamation and closure of the Companys mine sites are recognized when incurred and a liability and corresponding asset are recorded at
managements best estimate. Estimated closure and restoration costs are provided for in the accounting period when the obligation arising from the related disturbance occurs.
The amount of any liability recognized is estimated based on the risk-adjusted costs required to settle present obligations, discounted using a
pre-tax risk-free discount rate consistent with the time period of expected cash flows. When the liability is initially recorded, a corresponding asset retirement cost is recognized as an addition to mining interests and amortized using the unit of
production method.
The liability for each mine site is accreted over time and the accretion charges are recognized as an interest cost in
the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss. The liability is subject to re-measurement at each reporting date based on changes in discount rates and timing or amounts of the costs to be incurred. Changes in the liability, other
than accretion charges, relating to mine rehabilitation and restoration obligations, which are not the result of current production of inventory, are added to or deducted from the carrying value of the related asset retirement cost in the reporting
period recognized. If the change results in a reduction of the obligation in excess of the carrying value of the related asset retirement cost, the excess balance is recognized as a recovery through profit or loss in the period.
(b) |
Production Obligations |
A provision for an obligation based on achieving specific
production targets is recognized when the Company, based on estimates of recoverable minerals and planned production in the current mine plan for each property, determines the production target expected to be achieved.
Revenue and Accounts Receivable
Revenue from the sale of
metals in the course of ordinary activities is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of volume adjustments. Revenue is recognized when persuasive evidence exists, usually in the form of an executed sales
agreement, that the significant risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred to the buyer, recovery of the consideration is probable, the associated costs and possible return of goods can be estimated reliably, there is no continuing
management involvement with the goods, and the amount of revenue can be measured reliably. The timing of the transfers of risks and rewards varies depending on the individual terms of the contract of sale.
14
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Revenue from the sale of palladium and by-product metals from the LDI mine is provisionally recognized based on quoted market prices upon the delivery of concentrate to the smelter or designated
shipping point, which is when title transfers and significant rights and obligations of ownership pass. The Companys smelter contracts provide for final prices to be determined by quoted market prices in a period subsequent to the date of
concentrate delivery. Variations from the provisionally priced sales are recognized as revenue adjustments until final pricing is determined. Accounts receivable is recorded net of estimated treatment and refining costs which are subject to final
assay adjustments. Subsequent adjustments to provisional pricing amounts due to changes in metal prices and foreign exchange are included in revenues on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Loss and disclosed in the notes to
the consolidated financial statements.
Interest expense and other costs and other income
Interest expense and other costs are comprised of interest expense on borrowings, accretion expense, unwinding of the discount on provisions, changes in the
fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, impairment losses recognized on financial assets, losses on hedging instruments that are recognized in profit or loss, and changes in the fair value of the palladium warrants.
Borrowing costs that are not directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset are recognized in profit or loss using the effective interest method.
Other income is comprised of interest income on funds invested (including available-for-sale financial assets), gains on the disposal of available-for-sale
financial assets, gains on the renouncement of flow-through expenditures, changes in the fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, and gains on hedging instruments that are recognized in profit or loss. Interest income is
recognized as it accrues in profit or loss, using the effective interest method.
Foreign currency gains and losses are reported on a net basis.
Income and mining taxes
Income tax expense is comprised
of current and deferred tax. Current tax and deferred tax are recognized in profit or loss except to the extent that it relates to a business combination, or items recognized directly in equity or in other comprehensive income.
Current tax is the expected tax payable or receivable on the taxable income or loss for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the
reporting date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.
Deferred tax is recognized in respect of temporary differences between
the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is not recognized for the following temporary differences:
|
(i) |
the initial recognition of assets or liabilities in a transaction that is not a business combination and that affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss; |
|
(ii) |
temporary differences relating to investments in subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities to the extent that it is probable that they will not reverse in the foreseeable future; and |
|
(iii) |
temporary differences arising on the initial recognition of goodwill. |
Deferred tax is measured at the tax
rates that are expected to be applied to temporary differences when they reverse, based on the laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets, and they relate to income
or mining taxes levied by the same tax authority on the same taxable entity, or on different tax entities, but they intend to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis or their tax assets and liabilities will be realized
simultaneously.
15
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
A deferred tax asset is recognized for unused tax losses, tax credits and deductible temporary differences,
to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which they can be utilized. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related
tax benefit will be realized.
Basic and Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share
Basic earnings (loss) per common share (EPS) is computed by dividing the income (loss) for the period by the weighted average number of common
shares outstanding during the reporting period.
Diluted EPS is computed using the treasury stock method whereby the weighted average number of shares
outstanding is increased to include additional common shares from the assumed exercise of stock options, convertible debentures, palladium warrants and common share purchase warrants, if dilutive. The number of additional common shares is calculated
by assuming that outstanding equity instruments were exercised and that proceeds from such exercises were used to acquire shares of common stock at the average market price during the reporting period. These common equivalent shares are not included
in the calculation of the weighted average number of shares outstanding for diluted loss per common share when the effect would be anti-dilutive.
For
convertible financial instruments classified as debt, the consolidated comprehensive net income (loss) is adjusted to reflect the profit or loss which would have been reported in the period if the debt instrument had been converted immediately at
the beginning of the period. These adjustments to profit or loss and the equivalent shares realizable on conversion are not included in the diluted earnings per share calculation when the effect would be anti-dilutive.
Flow-Through Shares
The Company finances a portion of
its exploration activities through the issuance of flow-through shares. On the date of issuance of the flow-through shares, the premium relating to the proceeds received in excess of the closing market price of the Companys common shares is
allocated to liabilities.
Under the terms of the flow-through common share issues, the tax attributes of the related expenditures are renounced to
investors and deferred income tax expense and deferred tax liabilities are increased by the estimated income tax benefits renounced by the Company to the investors. The premium liability is reduced pro-rata based on the actual amount of flow-through
eligible expenditures incurred during the reporting period. The reduction to the premium is recognized through profit or loss as other income.
Segment
Reporting
An operating segment is a component of the Company that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses,
including revenues and expenses that relate to transactions with any of the Companys other components. An operating segments operating results are reviewed regularly by the Companys chief operating decision maker to make decisions
about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and for which discrete financial information is available.
Following the sale
of its discontinued gold operations on March 22, 2013 (see note 4), the Company has one reportable segment.
16
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Adoption of New Accounting Standards
The following new accounting standards have been adopted by the Company.
IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation
This standard is amended to clarify requirements for offsetting of financial assets and financial liabilities. The amendment is effective for
annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2014. This amendment did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
IAS 36 Recoverable Amounts
This standard was amended in May 2013 to change the disclosure required when an impairment loss is recognized or reversed. The amendments
require the disclosure of the recoverable amount of an asset or cash generating unit at the time an impairment loss has been recognized or reversed and detailed disclosure of how the associated fair value less costs of disposal has been determined.
The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2014 with earlier adoption permitted. This amendment did not have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
IFRIC 21 Accounting for Levies Imposed by Governments
This interpretation provides guidance on the obligating event giving rise to a liability in connection with a levy imposed by a government, and
clarifies that the obligating event is the activity that triggers the payment of the levy as identified by the legislation. The interpretation is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2014. This amendment did not have a
material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
New standards and interpretations not yet adopted
The following new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations are not yet effective for the year ended December 31, 2014 or
have otherwise not yet been adopted by the Company. The Company is evaluating the impact, if any; adoption of the standards will have on the disclosures in the Companys consolidated financial statements:
IAS 16 and IAS 38 Clarification of acceptable methods of depreciation and amortization
This pronouncement amends IAS 16 Property Plant and Equipment and IAS 38 Intangible Assets to (i) clarify that the use of a revenue-based
depreciation method is not appropriate for property, plant and equipment, and (ii) provide a rebuttable presumption for intangible assets. The amendment is effective for years beginning on or after January 1, 2016. This amendment is not
expected to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
IFRS 15 Revenue from contracts with
customers
This new standard on revenue recognition supercedes IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts, and related
interpretations. The amendment is effective for years beginning on or after January 1, 2017. The Company is presently evaluating the potential impact of this new standard on the consolidated financial statements of the Company.
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement
On July 24, 2014 the IASB issued the complete IFRS 9 (IFRS 9 (2014)) which will replace IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition
and Measurement. In November 2009 the IASB issued the first version of IFRS 9, Financial Instruments (IFRS 9 (2009)) and subsequently issued various amendments in October 2010, (IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (2010)) and November 2013 (IFRS
9 Financial Instruments (2013)).
17
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
IFRS 9 (2009) introduces new requirements for the classification and measurement of
financial assets. Under IFRS 9 (2009), financial assets are classified and measured based on the business model in which they are held and the characteristics of their contractual cash flows. This includes the introduction of a third measurement
category for financial assets fair value through other comprehensive income.
IFRS 9 (2010) introduces additional changes
relating to financial liabilities.
IFRS 9 (2013) includes a new general hedge accounting standard which will align hedge accounting
more closely with risk management. This new standard does not fundamentally change the types of hedging relationships or the requirement to measure and recognize ineffectiveness, however it will provide more hedging strategies that are used for risk
management to qualify for hedge accounting and introduce more judgment to assess the effectiveness of a hedging relationship.
Special
transitional requirements have been set for the application of the new general hedging model.
IFRS 9 (2014) includes finalized
guidance on the classification and measurement of financial assets. The final standard also amends the impairment model by introducing a new expected credit loss model for calculating impairment, and new general hedge accounting
requirements.
The mandatory effective date of IFRS 9 is for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018 and must be applied
retrospectively with some exemptions. Early adoption is permitted. The restatement of prior periods is not required and is only permitted if information is available without the use of hindsight. The Company is presently evaluating the impact of
adopting this standard and does not intend to early adopt IFRS 9 (2009), IFRS 9 (2010) or IFRS 9 (2013) and/or IFRS 9 (2014) in its financial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2015.
18
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
4. |
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS AND ASSETS HELD FOR SALE |
On March 22, 2013, the Company divested of its interest in its gold division through the disposal of all of the shares of its wholly-owned subsidiary, NAP
Quebec. As a result, the Company has presented the consolidated financial statements to segregate the gold division as discontinued operations and related financial assets and liabilities held for sale from those balances relating to the
Companys continuing operations for the period to March 22, 2013.
Assets and liabilities held for sale
The carrying values of the major classes of assets and liabilities included as part of NAP Quebec on the consolidated balance sheet were reclassified as assets
and liabilities of a disposal group classified as held for sale. As at the disposal date of March 22, 2013, the balances reported consisted of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At March 22 2013 |
|
Assets of a disposal group classified as held for sale |
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
1.1 |
|
Taxes receivable |
|
|
5.0 |
|
Inventories |
|
|
4.0 |
|
Other current assets |
|
|
1.7 |
|
Mining Interests |
|
|
20.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
32.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities of a disposal group classified as held for sale |
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities |
|
$ |
7.0 |
|
Obligations under finance leases |
|
|
0.3 |
|
Asset retirement obligation |
|
|
6.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
13.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds on disposal, net |
|
|
|
|
Cash |
|
$ |
18.0 |
|
Equity-settled1 |
|
|
1.4 |
|
Receivable inventory amounts |
|
|
1.8 |
|
Transaction costs related to sale |
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
20.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gain on disposal of gold division |
|
$ |
1.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
The purchaser, Maudore Minerals Ltd. issued 1.5 million of its common shares (MAO on the TSXV) as consideration towards the purchase price. |
In addition to the recognized proceeds, the sale agreement also includes a provision for future settlement of amounts relating to a portion of the gold
contained in the liners at the Sleeping Giant mill. The valuation of the settlement amount was contingent upon future determination of gold content, pricing, and foreign exchange at the time of changing the liners. In June of 2014 the Company
entered into a settlement agreement with Maudore in respect of all amounts owing to the Company by Maudore. In September of 2014, Maudore filed a Notice of Intention to make a proposal under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada). Maudore has
until February 27, 2015 to complete and present its proposal to its creditors. As a result, neither the contingent asset nor any estimate of income related to this contract provision has been reflected in the consolidated financial statements.
On May 22, 2013, in accordance with contractual terms, the Company elected to issue 203,800 common shares for the settlement of $0.3 of transaction
costs related to the sale of the gold division.
19
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Net loss from discontinued operations
Loss and comprehensive loss related to NAP Quebec have been segregated from continuing operations. Loss from discontinued operations consists of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2013 |
|
Revenue |
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mining operating expenses |
|
|
|
|
Production cost recovery |
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total mining operating expenses |
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Income from mining operations |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other expenses |
|
|
|
|
Exploration |
|
|
0.2 |
|
General and administration |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total other expenses |
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income before taxes |
|
|
0.4 |
|
Income and mining tax recovery |
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income and comprehensive income for the period before disposal |
|
|
1.0 |
|
Gain on disposal of gold division |
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income and comprehensive income for the year |
|
$ |
2.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash flows from discontinued operations
Cash flows related to NAP Quebec have been segregated from continuing operations. Net cash flows provided by (used in) discontinued operations consist of the
following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2013 |
|
Cash flow provided by: |
|
|
|
|
Operations |
|
$ |
6.1 |
|
Financing |
|
|
0.3 |
|
Investing |
|
|
14.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash provided by discontinued operations |
|
$ |
20.6 |
|
Opening cash held by discontinued operations |
|
|
0.6 |
|
Closing cash held by discontinued operations |
|
|
(1.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
Net change in cash attributable to discontinued operations |
|
$ |
20.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2014 |
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
$ |
75.2 |
|
|
$ |
38.4 |
|
Unrealized gain on financial contracts1 |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable |
|
$ |
75.4 |
|
|
$ |
38.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
As at December 31, 2014, a total of 12,800 ounces of past palladium production delivered and sold to a smelter, was priced using forward prices for the month of final settlement at an average price of $942 per
ounce of palladium (December 31, 2013 31,000 ounces of past palladium production at an average price of $768 per ounce). Refer to note 15. |
20
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Accounts receivable represents the value of all platinum group metals (PGMs), gold and certain
base metals contained in LDIs concentrate shipped for smelting and refining, using the December 31, 2014 forward metal prices and foreign exchange rates applicable for the month of final settlement, and for which significant risks and
rewards have transferred to third parties.
All of the accounts receivable are due from two customers at December 31, 2014 (December 31, 2013
two customers). A reserve for doubtful accounts has not been established, as in the opinion of management, the amount due will be fully collected. The Company is not economically dependent on its customers, refer to note 18.
First priority security of accounts receivable, supplies inventory, and inventories of concentrate, crushed and broken ore and second priority security on the
fixed assets have been pledged as security against a credit facility described in note 10.
Inventories consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2014 |
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Supplies1 |
|
$ |
11.3 |
|
|
$ |
10.3 |
|
Concentrate inventory1 |
|
|
3.1 |
|
|
|
2.1 |
|
Crushed and broken ore stockpiles1,2 |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
1.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
14.9 |
|
|
$ |
14.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
This portion of inventories has been pledged as security on the Companys credit facility. Refer to note 10. |
2 |
Crushed and broken ore stockpiles represent coarse ore that has been extracted from the mine and is available for further processing. |
During the year-ended December 31, 2013, concentrate inventory and crushed and broken ore stockpile inventories were written down in the amount of $0.6
and $0.1 respectively to reflect net realizable value (2014 - $nil). The aggregate write-down of $0.7 has been recorded as an inventory pricing adjustment at December 31, 2013.
Supplies inventory of $40.3 were recognized as an expense during the year ended December 31, 2014 (2013 - $27.2). During the year ended December 31,
2014 the Company recognized a write-down of obsolete supplies inventory in the amount of $0.8 (2013 - $nil).
Other assets consist of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2014 |
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Prepaids |
|
$ |
2.0 |
|
|
$ |
1.5 |
|
HST receivable |
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
4.4 |
|
Other receivables |
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
0.9 |
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
3.6 |
|
|
$ |
7.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
21
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Mining interests are comprised of the following:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Plant and equipment |
|
|
Underground mine development1 |
|
|
Equipment under finance lease |
|
|
Mining leases and claims, royalty interest, and development |
|
|
Total |
|
Cost or deemed cost |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at January 1, 2013 |
|
$ |
48.6 |
|
|
$ |
299.2 |
|
|
$ |
19.5 |
|
|
$ |
14.8 |
|
|
$ |
382.1 |
|
Additions of physical assets |
|
|
21.8 |
|
|
|
91.4 |
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
116.0 |
|
Revaluation of ARO assets |
|
|
(1.9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.9 |
) |
Capitalization of borrowing costs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
28.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
28.6 |
|
Reclassification of costs for finance leases maturing in the year |
|
|
6.2 |
|
|
|
(3.3 |
) |
|
|
(2.9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Disposals |
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(3.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(4.7 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2013 |
|
$ |
73.8 |
|
|
$ |
415.9 |
|
|
$ |
15.6 |
|
|
$ |
14.8 |
|
|
$ |
520.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Additions of physical assets |
|
|
13.1 |
|
|
|
12.2 |
|
|
|
8.0 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
|
|
34.4 |
|
Revaluation of ARO assets |
|
|
1.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.8 |
|
Reclassification of costs for finance leases maturing in the year |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
(1.7 |
) |
|
|
1.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Disposals |
|
|
(2.1 |
) |
|
|
(0.7 |
) |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2.9 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2014 |
|
$ |
87.1 |
|
|
$ |
425.7 |
|
|
$ |
24.7 |
|
|
$ |
15.9 |
|
|
$ |
553.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and impairment losses |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at January 1, 2013 |
|
$ |
11.3 |
|
|
$ |
20.3 |
|
|
$ |
4.0 |
|
|
$ |
3.0 |
|
|
$ |
38.6 |
|
Depreciation for the year |
|
|
5.1 |
|
|
|
17.7 |
|
|
|
1.9 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
25.7 |
|
Reclassification for finance leases maturing in the year |
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
(1.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Disposals |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2013 |
|
$ |
17.6 |
|
|
$ |
38.1 |
|
|
$ |
4.2 |
|
|
$ |
4.0 |
|
|
$ |
63.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation for the year |
|
|
5.3 |
|
|
|
29.3 |
|
|
|
2.3 |
|
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
37.7 |
|
Reclassification for finance leases maturing in the year |
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other reclassifications |
|
|
(0.2 |
) |
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Disposals |
|
|
(0.2 |
) |
|
|
(0.6 |
) |
|
|
(0.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance at December 31, 2014 |
|
|
22.8 |
|
|
|
66.9 |
|
|
|
6.1 |
|
|
|
4.8 |
|
|
|
100.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Carrying amounts |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As at December 31, 2013 |
|
$ |
56.2 |
|
|
$ |
377.8 |
|
|
$ |
11.4 |
|
|
$ |
10.8 |
|
|
$ |
456.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As at December 31, 2014 |
|
$ |
64.3 |
|
|
$ |
358.8 |
|
|
$ |
18.6 |
|
|
$ |
11.1 |
|
|
$ |
452.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
During the Offset zone mine expansion, all interest costs on debt used to finance the project were capitalized to mining interests. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the $28.6 capitalized borrowing costs was
comprised of $19.6 interest costs on long-term debt and $9.0 related to the Companys revision of its estimated timing of cash flows related to the senior secured term loan. |
Asset restrictions and contractual commitments
The
Companys assets are subject to certain restrictions on title and property, plant and equipment. Substantially all assets are pledged as security for credit agreement arrangements and senior secured lenders. See notes 5, 10, 12 and 17.
22
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
9. |
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS AND RECLAMATION DEPOSITS |
At December 31, 2014, the changes in asset retirement obligations are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Asset retirement obligations, beginning of year |
|
$ |
13.6 |
|
Change in discount rate and estimated closure costs (note 8) |
|
|
1.8 |
|
Accretion expense |
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Asset retirement obligations, end of year |
|
$ |
15.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Asset retirement obligations comprised the following as at December 31, 2014:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property |
|
Expected timing of cash flows |
|
|
Asset retirement obligation |
|
|
Mine closure plan requirement |
|
|
Letter of credit outstanding |
|
|
Undiscounted asset retirement obligation |
|
LDI mine1 |
|
|
2023 |
|
|
$ |
15.8 |
|
|
$ |
14.1 |
|
|
$ |
14.1 |
|
|
$ |
18.4 |
|
1 |
Including a letter of credit for Shebandowan West project, the total letters of credit outstanding are $14.4 for asset retirement obligations. Refer to notes 10 and 17. |
Asset retirement obligations comprised the following as at December 31, 2013:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property |
|
Expected timing of cash flows |
|
|
Asset retirement obligation |
|
|
Mine closure plan requirement |
|
|
Letter of credit outstanding |
|
|
Undiscounted asset retirement obligation |
|
LDI mine1 |
|
|
2023 |
|
|
$ |
13.6 |
|
|
$ |
14.1 |
|
|
$ |
14.1 |
|
|
$ |
18.9 |
|
1 |
Including a letter of credit for Shebandowan West project, the total letters of credit outstanding are $14.4 for asset retirement obligations. Refer to notes 10 and 17. |
The key assumptions applied for determination of the ARO obligation are as follows as at:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2014 |
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Inflation |
|
|
2.00 |
% |
|
|
2.00 |
% |
Market risk |
|
|
5.00 |
% |
|
|
5.00 |
% |
Discount rate |
|
|
1.67 |
% |
|
|
2.75 |
% |
The asset retirement obligation may change materially based on future changes in operations, costs of reclamation and closure
activities, and regulatory requirements. The mine closure obligation was revised at December 31, 2013 to reflect the Companys most current closure cost estimates.
23
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
The Company has secured a credit facility with a Canadian chartered bank, which matures July 3, 2015, and which is to be used for working capital
liquidity and general corporate purposes. The maximum that can be utilized under the facility is the lesser of US$60 and an amount determined by a borrowing base calculation. The credit facility contains certain financial covenants, as defined in
the agreement, including senior debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ratios, which are effective in the fourth quarter of 2014, and adjusted current ratio requirements, minimum tangible net worth requirements and
capital expenditure limits which became effective June 7, 2013 which, if not met, would result in an event of default. The loan also includes certain other covenants, including material adverse change provisions and cross-default provisions
with the senior secured term loan (note 12). Certain events of default result in the credit facility becoming immediately due, while other events of default entitle the lender to demand repayment. As of December 31, 2014, the company was in
compliance with the covenants.
Under the credit facility, as of December 31, 2014, the Company utilized $15.4 (US$13.3) for letters of credit,
primarily for reclamation deposits (2013 - $15.4 (US$14.5)), and had $36.8 (US$31.7) in borrowings outstanding (2013 - $17.8 (US$16.8)).
First priority
security of accounts receivable, supplies inventory, and inventories of concentrate, crushed and broken ore and second priority security on the property, plant and equipment have been pledged as security against the credit facility. Refer to note 5.
At the respective reporting dates, the Company was party to the following lease arrangements:
FINANCE LEASES (OBLIGATIONS UNDER FINANCE LEASES)
The
Company leases production equipment under a number of finance lease agreements. Some leases provide the Company with the option to purchase the equipment at a beneficial price. The leased equipment secures the lease obligations. The net carrying
amount of leased equipment at each reporting date is summarized in the mining interests under the category of equipment under finance lease. Refer to note 8.
The following is a schedule of future minimum lease payments under finance leases together with the present value of the net minimum lease payments at
each reporting date:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31, 2014 |
|
|
At December 31, 2013 |
|
|
|
Future minimum lease payments |
|
|
Interest |
|
|
Present value of minimum lease payments |
|
|
Future minimum lease payments |
|
|
Interest |
|
|
Present value of minimum lease payments |
|
Less than one year |
|
$ |
5.5 |
|
|
$ |
0.9 |
|
|
$ |
4.6 |
|
|
$ |
3.6 |
|
|
$ |
0.6 |
|
|
$ |
3.0 |
|
Between one and five years |
|
|
15.3 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
|
|
14.2 |
|
|
|
9.3 |
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
8.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
20.8 |
|
|
$ |
2.0 |
|
|
$ |
18.8 |
|
|
$ |
12.9 |
|
|
$ |
1.2 |
|
|
$ |
11.7 |
|
Less current portion |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
14.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
8.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
24
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
OPERATING LEASES
The Company, from time to time, enters into leasing arrangements for production and other equipment under a number of operating leases. These leases are
generally short-term in nature and subject to cancellation clauses. The Company periodically reviews the nature of these leases to identify if there have been any significant changes to the terms and use of the items under operating lease which
would require reclassification as a finance lease. Any required reclassification is applied prospectively from the date the revised lease terms become effective.
The following schedule provides the future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases outstanding at each of the reporting dates:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2014 |
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Less than one year |
|
$ |
1.4 |
|
|
$ |
1.9 |
|
Between one and five years |
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
2.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
2.8 |
|
|
$ |
4.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The total minimum lease payments recognized in expense during each of the stated years are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 2014 |
|
|
December 31 2013 |
|
Minimum lease payments expensed |
|
$ |
3.8 |
|
|
$ |
2.5 |
|
Long-term debt is comprised of the following as at each reporting date:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2014 |
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Senior secured term loan |
|
$ |
186.4 |
|
|
$ |
173.7 |
|
Convertible debentures (2012) |
|
|
37.5 |
|
|
|
35.9 |
|
Convertible debentures and warrants (2014 Tranche 1) |
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
Convertible debentures and warrants (2014 Tranche 2) |
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
226.1 |
|
|
|
209.6 |
|
Less current portion1 |
|
|
7.3 |
|
|
|
173.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
218.8 |
|
|
$ |
35.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
Subsequent to December 31, 2013, following receipt of waivers from the Companys senior secured term lender for covenant violations, the current portion was reclassified as non-current.
|
25
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Senior secured term loan
On June 7, 2013, the Company closed a US$130 senior secured term loan financing with Brookfield Capital Partners Ltd. (Brookfield) which bears
interest at 15% per annum and is due June 7, 2017. The loan is secured by first priority security on the property, plant and equipment and second priority security on accounts receivable and inventory. The Company has the option to accrue
interest during the first two years of the loan; in which case, the interest rate on the loan and accrued interest would increase by 4%.
At closing, the
Company exercised an option to defer a commitment fee of US$3.9 for a period of up to two years. As a result, the balance of the commitment fee was added to the principal outstanding with interest on the outstanding fee compounding monthly until
repaid.
In addition to the term loan and the commitment fee included in the principal, the loan agreement also included a provision for the payment of an
exit fee equal to 5% of term loan principal settlements at the time of repayment.
On November 29, 2013, the Company amended its senior secured term,
resulting in an additional advance of US$21.4 of cash. The cash received consisted of an additional US$15.0 added to the existing facility and a refund of US$6.4 of cash interest previously paid to Brookfield.
Pursuant to the 2013 amendment, the interest rate was recalculated as if the Company had elected to accrue interest on the loan from the date of the original
closing on June 7, 2013, resulting in a 4% increase of the interest rate from 15% to 19% until a voluntary reversion to cash interest payments by the Company. The amendment provided that after a voluntary reversion to cash interest payments,
and upon payment of interest and fees which have been deferred, the interest rate returns to 15% per annum on the principal amount outstanding. The exit fee contained in the original loan agreement was replaced by an amendment fee and all
interest accrued up to and including June 30, 2014 was capitalized to the principal amount along with the amendment and commitment fees. Prepayment of any principal (including capitalized interest and fees) is subject to a prepayment fee and
voluntary prepayment conditions.
The 2013 amendment resulted in an increase of the US$133.9 principal of the loan at November 29, 2013 for
capitalized interest of US$12.7, an additional loan of US$15.0, and an amendment fee of US$8.1 for a total revised principal of US$169.7.
The loan is
measured at amortized cost. Interest on the loan was originally recorded at an effective interest rate of 16.7%. As a result of the 2013 amendment to the term loan agreement, the amended effective interest rate was adjusted to 18.00%.
At December 31, 2013, the Company was in violation of certain covenants which entitled the lender to demand accelerated repayment, and for which a waiver
was not obtained from the lender until subsequent to the year-end reporting date. In the fourth quarter of 2013, a construction lien was placed on the LDI mine by a supplier. The Company paid the supplier the amount owed at the time and the lien was
removed. However, this resulted in an event of default as at December 31, 2013 under the secured term loan and, as a result of a cross-default, an event of default under the credit facility, and accordingly each lender had the ability to
accelerate its loans. The event of default resulted in classification of the secured term loan to current liabilities for year-end reporting purposes which further triggered a violation of a current ratio covenant of its credit facility. No waivers
were obtained related to these events of default as at December 31, 2013. As a result the full balance of the loan was reclassified as a current liability as at December 31, 2013.
On January 28, 2014, the Company obtained a waiver from the lender regarding the secured term loan covenant violation, and the event of default has been
cured.
26
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Effective June 30, 2014, the loan was further amended to reduce the interest rate to 15% effective
July 1, 2014. As part of the 2014 amendment, a payment of US$23.4, consisting of US$16.2 previously accrued interest and US$7.2 of associated pre-payment fees, was made on July 3, 2014, and accrued and unpaid interest of US$16.2 was
capitalized to the loan principal amount. As a result of this amendment to the term loan agreement, the amended effective interest rate was adjusted to 18.74%. As at December 31, 2014, the carrying amount for the senior secured term loan was
$186.4 (US$160.6).
The loan contains covenants, as defined in the agreement, including senior debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and
amortization ratios, which are effective in the fourth quarter of 2014, and minimum tangible net worth requirements and capital expenditure limits which became effective June 7, 2013 which, if not met, would result in an event of default. The
loan also includes certain events of default including breaches of the financial covenants, material adverse changes, limits on liens, additional debt, payments and cross-default provisions. Certain events of default result in the loan becoming
immediately due, together with the prepayment fee and penalty interest of 5% above the applicable rate while unpaid, and other events of default entitle the lender to demand repayment of the loan together with the prepayment fee and penalty
interest. At December 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with all covenants.
Senior secured notes
During the fourth quarter of 2011, the Company issued $72.0 of senior secured notes by way of a private placement for net proceeds of $69.6. The notes,
which were due to mature on October 4, 2014, with a one year extension at the option of the Company, were issued in $1,000 denominations and bore interest at a rate of 9.25% per year, payable semi-annually, with 1 palladium warrant
attached for each $1,000 note, with an October 4, 2014 expiration date. The debt was carried at amortized cost using an effective interest rate of 13% for accounting purposes.
On June 7, 2013, the debt component of the senior secured notes was fully repaid using the proceeds from the senior secured term loan. The total payment
amounted to $80.5 and included settlement of the principal outstanding of $72.0, accrued interest of $1.3, and a redemption premium of $7.2. The repayment resulted in the recognition of a loss on extinguishment of $11.0.
The palladium warrants originally issued with the senior secured notes were not settled. A total of 72,000 warrants were issued which entitled the holders to
purchase 0.35 ounces of palladium at a purchase price of US$620 per ounce (the Strike Price), anytime up to October 4, 2014. If exercised, the Company was to pay the warrant holder an amount equal to the average of the U.S dollar
palladium afternoon fixing price per ounce on the London Platinum and Palladium Market for the ten trading days prior to the exercise date less the Strike Price, multiplied by 0.35. The Company had the option, subject to certain conditions, to pay
the amount owing in common shares priced at a 7% discount to the volume weighted average price on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the five trading days prior to the date of exercise.
During June 2013, a total of 13,000 palladium warrants were exercised, resulting in a settlement payable of $0.6. The Company elected to apply the
equity-settlement option, resulting in the issuance of 574,738 common shares. In July 2013, an additional 47,000 palladium warrants were exercised resulting in a $1.7 cash settlement.
On September 30, 2014 and October 1, 2014, the Company received confirmation of exercise of the remaining 12,000 warrants. On October 22, 2014
and October 23, 2014, the Company finalized the cash-settlement of the related obligations in the amount of $1.1.
27
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
The derivatives relating to the outstanding palladium warrants were recorded at fair value through profit or
loss at each reporting date. At December 31, 2014, all palladium warrants had been fully exercised and settled (December 31, 2013 12,000 palladium warrants were outstanding). At December 31, 2013, the palladium warrants were valued
using a binomial model which included the following key assumptions:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Market price of palladium |
|
$ |
711 |
|
Strike price |
|
$ |
620 |
|
Volatility1 |
|
|
21 |
% |
Risk free rate |
|
|
1.13 |
% |
Expected life (in years) |
|
|
0.76 |
|
1 |
Expected volatility is estimated by considering historic average palladium price volatility based on the remaining life of the warrants. |
The value of the derivative liability was $nil at December 31, 2014 ($0.5 at December 31, 2013).
Convertible Debentures (2012)
On July 31, 2012, the
Company completed an offering of 43,000 convertible unsecured subordinated debentures of the Company at a price of $1,000 per debenture, for total gross proceeds of $43.0 ($40.8 net proceeds). The debentures mature on September 30, 2017 and
bear interest at a rate of 6.15% per year, payable semi-annually. At the option of the holder, the debentures may be converted into common shares of the Company at any time prior to maturity at a conversion price of $2.90 per common share.
The convertible debentures are compound financial instruments, consisting of the debt instrument and the equity conversion feature. The debt instrument was
valued at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method at a discount rate of 10.5%. The excess of the proceeds of $43.0 over the value assigned to the debt instrument was allocated as the fair value of the equity component of the
convertible debentures. Transaction costs were netted against the debt instrument and equity component based on the pro-rata allocation of the fair value of each instrument at initial recognition.
Of the net proceeds of $40.8, $33.9 has been allocated to long-term debt, and the remaining portion of $6.9 has been allocated to the equity component of the
convertible debentures at the time of issuance.
Convertible Debentures (2014 Tranche 1)
On January 31, 2014 and February 10, 2014, the Company closed a public offering with the aggregate sale of $32.0 gross principal amount of
convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (the 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures) of the Company at a price of $1,000 per Debenture, including approximately 16.8 million common share purchase warrants (the 2014 Tranche 1
Warrants). This offering represented the first tranche of the offering. Net proceeds received were $28.5. The conversion price of the 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures is $0.635 per common share, and the original exercise price of the 2014 Tranche 1
Warrants was $0.762 per common share. As a result of the completion of the second tranche offering, the anti-dilution clause within the 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures agreements resulted in an adjustment of the original exercise price for the 2014
Tranche 1 Warrants to $0.5786 per common share.
The 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures will mature on January 31, 2019, unless redeemed or converted earlier,
or unless extended, and will bear interest at an annual rate of 7.5% payable semi-annually in arrears on January 31 and July 31 of each year. Holders may convert their 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures into common shares of the Company at any time
at a conversion rate of approximately 1,575 Common Shares per $1,000 principal amount of 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures, representing 50.4 million common shares of the Company. Holders converting their debentures will receive all accrued and unpaid
interest, as well as interest that would have been paid if the 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures were held through to maturity (the Tranche 1 Make Whole Amount). At the Companys option, interest and Tranche 1 Make Whole Amounts can be paid
in common shares.
28
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Each 2014 Tranche 1 Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at any
time before March 28, 2017.
Due to the existence of multiple derivatives embedded within the contract, the Company has elected to account for the
2014 Tranche 1 Debentures and all related derivatives as one instrument at fair value through profit or loss, with changes in fair value being recognized as derivative gains or losses through profit or loss. The 2014 Tranche 1 Warrants are also
accounted for at fair value through profit or loss. As a result of this election, transaction costs of $3.5 were expensed as financing costs for the year ended December 31, 2014.
The initial fair value of the 2014 Tranche 1 debt of $28.4 was determined based on the publicly traded market price of the 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures, while
the fair value of the 2014 Tranche 1 Warrants approved on March 28, 2014 was assigned a value of $3.6 using the Black-Scholes model.
At
December 31, 2014, 2014 Tranche 1 Debentures with an initial face value of $31.7, including accrued interest and make-whole provisions, had been converted into 76,407,816 common shares of NAP. Debentures with an initial face value of $0.3 were
outstanding at December 31, 2014. All warrants issued were also outstanding at December 31, 2014. The fair value of the remaining debentures outstanding and the outstanding warrants as at December 31, 2014 is $0.4 based on the
publicly traded market price and $0.5, respectively, and this amount is recorded in the statement of financial position in long term debt and current portion of long term debt. The changes in fair value from the transaction date to December 31,
2014 are included in interest and other income in the statement of comprehensive loss (refer to note 19).
The following assumptions were applied for the
Black-Scholes valuations of the outstanding 2014 Tranche 1 Warrants at initial recognition and the current reporting date:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31, 2014 |
|
|
January 31, 2014 |
|
Market price common shares of NAP (PDL) |
|
$ |
0.16 |
|
|
$ |
0.53 |
|
Strike price |
|
$ |
0.58 |
|
|
$ |
0.76 |
|
Volatility1 |
|
|
83 |
% |
|
|
75 |
% |
Risk free rate |
|
|
1.02 |
% |
|
|
1.14 |
% |
Expected life (in years) |
|
|
2.25 |
|
|
|
3.00 |
|
1 |
Expected volatility is estimated by considering historic average daily price volatility of the common shares of the Company based on the remaining life of the warrants. |
Convertible Debentures (2014 Tranche 2)
On
April 11, 2014 and April 17, 2014, the Company closed a public offering with the aggregate sale of $35.0 gross principal amount of convertible unsecured subordinated debentures (the 2014 Tranche 2 Debentures) of the Company at
a price of $1,000 per Debenture, including approximately 18.9 million common share purchase warrants (the 2014 Tranche 2 Warrants). This offering represented the second tranche of the offering. Net proceeds received were $32.7. The
conversion price of the 2014 Tranche 2 Debentures is $0.4629 per common share, and the exercise price of the 2014 Tranche 2 Warrants is $0.5786 per common share.
The 2014 Tranche 2 Debentures will mature on April 11, 2019, unless redeemed or converted earlier, or unless extended, and will bear interest at an
annual rate of 7.5% payable semi-annually in arrears on March 31 and September 30 of each year. Holders may convert their 2014 Tranche 2 Debentures into common shares of NAP at any time at a conversion rate of approximately 2,160 Common
Shares per $1,000 principal amount of Debentures. Holders converting their debentures will receive all accrued and unpaid interest, as well as interest that would have been paid if the 2014 Tranche
29
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
2 Debentures were held through to maturity (the Tranche 2 Make Whole Amount). At the Companys option, interest and Tranche 2 Make-Whole Amounts can be paid in common shares.
Each 2014 Tranche 2 Warrant will entitle the holders thereof to purchase one common share of the Company at any time before the second anniversary of the
date of issue.
Due to the existence of multiple derivatives embedded within the contract, the Company has elected to account for the 2014 Tranche 2
Debentures and all related derivatives as one instrument at fair value through profit or loss, with future changes in fair value being recognized as derivative gains or losses through profit or loss. The 2014 Tranche 2 Warrants are also accounted
for at fair value through profit or loss. As a result of this election, transaction costs of $2.3 were expensed in the period as financing costs for the year ended December 31, 2014.
The initial fair value of the 2014 Tranche 2 Debentures of $33.1 was determined using a FinCAD pricing model, while the value of the related 2014 Tranche 2
Warrants of $1.9 was calculated using the Black-Scholes model.
At December 31, 2014, 2014 Tranche 2 Debentures with an initial face value of $33.5,
including accrued interest and make-whole provisions, had been converted into 108,972,404 common shares of NAP. Debentures with an initial face value of $1.5 were outstanding at December 31, 2014. All warrants issued were also outstanding at
December 31, 2014. The fair value of the remaining debentures outstanding and the outstanding warrants as at December 31, 2014 is $1.0 and $0.4 using the Black-Scholes model, respectively, and these amounts are recorded in the statement of
financial position in long term debt and current portion of long term debt, respectively. The changes in fair value from the transaction date to December 31, 2014 are included in interest and other income in the statement of comprehensive loss
(refer to note 19).
The following assumptions were applied for the valuations of the outstanding 2014 Tranche 2 Debentures and Warrants at initial
recognition and the current reporting date:
|
|
|
|
|
Debentures |
|
April 11, |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
Market price common shares of NAP (PDL) |
|
$ |
0.34 |
|
Strike price |
|
$ |
0.46 |
|
Risk free rate |
|
|
1.64 |
% |
Expected life (in years) |
|
|
5.00 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Warrants |
|
December 31, |
|
|
April 11, |
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2014 |
|
Market price common shares of NAP (PDL) |
|
$ |
0.16 |
|
|
$ |
0.34 |
|
Strike price |
|
$ |
0.58 |
|
|
$ |
0.58 |
|
Volatility1 |
|
|
98 |
% |
|
|
81 |
% |
Risk free rate |
|
|
1.01 |
% |
|
|
1.04 |
% |
Expected life (in years) |
|
|
1.28 |
|
|
|
2.00 |
|
1 |
Expected volatility is estimated by considering historic average daily price volatility of the common shares of the Company based on the remaining life of the warrants. |
At December 31, 2014, the fair value of the 2014 Tranche 2 Debentures was estimated based on the equivalent fair value of common shares issuable by the
Company to settle the remaining $1.5 initial face value, including accrued interest and make-whole provisions payable under the terms of the debenture agreement.
In January 2015, 2014 Tranche 2 Convertible Debentures with a face value of $0.3 were converted into 1,260,224 common shares, representing the conversion and
Make-Whole amount. Refer to Note 23.
30
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
13. |
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS |
Transactions with key management personnel
Key
management personnel compensation
The Company provides non-cash benefits to directors and executive officers, and contributes to a defined
contribution plan on their behalf in addition to regular salaried amounts. In accordance with the terms of the Corporate Stock Option plan, directors and executive officers are entitled to receive stock-based compensation on an annual basis through
participation in the Companys group registered retirement savings plan and through incentives issued under the Companys corporate stock option and restricted share unit plans. Refer to note 14.
Summary of key management personnel compensation
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 2014 |
|
|
December 31 2013 |
|
Short-term employee benefits |
|
$ |
3.1 |
|
|
$ |
2.2 |
|
Post employment benefits |
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
Share-based payments |
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
3.7 |
|
|
$ |
3.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(a) |
Authorized and Issued Capital Stock |
The authorized capital stock of the Company consists of an
unlimited number of common shares.
(b) |
Group Registered Retirement Savings Plan |
The Company has a group registered retirement savings plan, in
which eligible employees can participate in at their option. Union employees are entitled to an employer contribution of either: (a) $1.00 for each $1.00 contribution up to a maximum of 5% of base salary for employees who have been employed for
6-18 months (maximum $2,500 per year); or (b) $2.00 for each $1.00 contribution up to a maximum of 10% of base salary for employees who have been employed for greater than 18 months (maximum $5,000 per year). Non-union employees are
entitled to an employer contribution equal to 3% of base salary plus an employer matching contribution of up to a maximum of 2% of base salary for employees who have been employed for greater than 90 days. The Company contributions are made
either in cash or treasury shares of the Company on a quarterly basis. If the matching contribution is made in treasury shares, the price per share issued is the 5-day volume weighted average trading price of the common shares on the Toronto Stock
Exchange (TSX) preceding the end of the quarter. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company contributed 4,024,633 shares with a fair value of $1.4 (2013 1,235,996 shares with a fair value of $1.4), which was equal
to the market value of the shares on the contribution date.
(c) |
Flow-through share offerings |
On June 7, 2013, the Company entered into a subscription agreement in
respect of a fully subscribed private placement of flow-through shares, for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of approximately $20, with the intention to issue these shares in two tranches, in each case at a 2% premium to the relevant market
price (defined as the simple average of the five daily VWAPs on the TSX for the five trading day period ending on the fourth trading day prior to each tranches closing date).
On June 19, 2013, the Company completed the first tranche with the issuance of 8,668,009 flow-through common shares at a price of $1.155 per share for
net proceeds of $9.6. The Company was required to spend the gross proceeds of $10.0 on eligible exploration and mine development expenditures, which were renounced to investors for the 2013 tax year. As at December 31, 2013, $10.0 was spent.
31
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
On July 23, 2013, the Company completed the second tranche with the issuance of 8,590,328 flow-through
common shares at a price of $1.164 per share for net proceeds of $9.4. The Company was required to spend the gross proceeds of $10.0 on eligible exploration and mine development expenditures, which were renounced to investors for the 2013 tax year.
As at December 31, 2013, $10.0 was spent.
(d) |
Corporate Stock Option Plan |
The Company has a Corporate Stock Option Plan (the Plan), under
which eligible directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company may receive options to acquire common shares. The Plan is administered by the Board of Directors, which will determine after considering recommendations made by the
Compensation Committee, the number of options to be issued, the exercise price (which is the 5-day volume weighted average trading price of the common shares on the TSX on the trading day prior to the grant date), expiration dates of each option,
the extent to which each option is exercisable (provided that the term of an option shall not exceed 10 years from the date of grant), as well as establishing the time period should the optionee cease to be an Eligible Person as set
forth in the conditions of the Plan. One third of options granted vest on each of the first three anniversary dates of the date of grant.
The maximum
number of common shares issuable under the Plan, and all other share-based compensation arrangements of the company, shall not exceed 3.49% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company (the cap). As at December 31, 2014, of
the 5,371,142 options outstanding, 3,771,142 options granted under the Plan were subjected to the cap, which represented 0.98% of the issued and outstanding shares of the Company. At December 31, 2013, 6,240,779 options were available to be
granted under the Plan.
The following summary sets out the activity in outstanding common share purchase options:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31, 2014 |
|
|
At December 31, 2013 |
|
|
|
Options |
|
|
Weighted Average Exercise Price |
|
|
Options |
|
|
Weighted Average Exercise Price |
|
Outstanding, beginning of year |
|
|
3,359,221 |
|
|
$ |
1.91 |
|
|
|
4,207,249 |
|
|
$ |
3.68 |
|
Granted |
|
|
2,596,700 |
|
|
$ |
0.18 |
|
|
|
2,473,387 |
|
|
$ |
1.07 |
|
Cancelled/forfeited |
|
|
(549,779 |
) |
|
$ |
2.29 |
|
|
|
(3,286,665 |
) |
|
$ |
3.53 |
|
Expired |
|
|
(35,000 |
) |
|
$ |
8.40 |
|
|
|
(34,750 |
) |
|
$ |
3.86 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Outstanding, end of year |
|
|
5,371,142 |
|
|
$ |
0.99 |
|
|
|
3,359,221 |
|
|
$ |
1.91 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options exercisable at end of year |
|
|
1,341,752 |
|
|
$ |
2.35 |
|
|
|
822,508 |
|
|
$ |
4.05 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
No options were exercised during the years ended December 31, 2014 or December 31, 2013.
The following table summarizes information about the Companys stock options outstanding at December 31, 2014:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Exercise price range |
|
Average remaining contractual life (years) |
|
|
Options Outstanding at December 31, 2014 |
|
|
Options Exercisable at December 31, 2014 |
|
$ 0.16-2.50 |
|
|
5.10 |
|
|
|
4,713,643 |
|
|
|
727,584 |
|
$ 2.51-3.00 |
|
|
2.08 |
|
|
|
130,000 |
|
|
|
86,669 |
|
$ 3.01-6.00 |
|
|
2.97 |
|
|
|
404,999 |
|
|
|
404,999 |
|
$ 6.01-8.87 |
|
|
1.26 |
|
|
|
122,500 |
|
|
|
122,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
4.78 |
|
|
|
5,371,142 |
|
|
|
1,341,752 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
32
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
The fair value of options granted during the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013
have been estimated at the date of grant using the Black Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 2014 |
|
|
December 31 2013 |
|
Awards granted |
|
|
2,596,700 |
|
|
|
2,473,387 |
|
Weighted average fair value of awards |
|
$ |
0.09 |
|
|
$ |
0.55 |
|
Pre-vest forfeiture rate |
|
|
27 |
% |
|
|
25 |
% |
Grant price |
|
$ |
0.18 |
|
|
$ |
1.07 |
|
Market price |
|
$ |
0.17 |
|
|
$ |
1.07 |
|
Volatility1 |
|
|
76 |
% |
|
|
64 |
% |
Risk free rate |
|
|
1.37 |
% |
|
|
1.51 |
% |
Dividend yield |
|
|
0 |
% |
|
|
0 |
% |
Expected life (in years) |
|
|
4.2 |
|
|
|
4.3 |
|
1 |
Expected volatility is estimated by considering historic average share price volatility based on the average expected life of the options. |
(e) |
Reconciliation of the diluted number of shares outstanding: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 2014 |
|
|
December 31 2013 |
|
Net loss available to common shareholders |
|
$ |
66.7 |
|
|
$ |
46.2 |
|
Effect of dilutive securities |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
1.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Adjusted net loss available to common shareholders |
|
$ |
66.9 |
|
|
$ |
47.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average number of shares outstanding |
|
|
338,818,180 |
|
|
|
187,150,369 |
|
Effect of dilutive securities |
|
|
526,333 |
|
|
|
25,960 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average diluted number of shares outstanding |
|
|
339,344,513 |
|
|
|
187,176,329 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Diluted net loss per share |
|
$ |
0.20 |
|
|
$ |
0.25 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the dilutive effect related to the potential conversion
of restricted share units. The dilutive effects of the convertible debentures, warrants, and stock options have not been included in the determination of diluted loss per share because to do so would be anti-dilutive.
(f) |
Other Stock-Based Compensation Restricted Share Unit Plan |
The Company has a Restricted Share Unit Plan (RSU) under which eligible directors, officers and key employees of the Company are entitled to
receive awards of RSUs. Each RSU is equivalent in value to the fair market value of a common share of the Company on the date of the award and a corresponding liability is established on the balance sheet. The RSU is administered by the Board of
Directors, which will determine after considering recommendations made by the Compensation Committee, the number and timing of RSUs to be awarded and their vesting periods, not to exceed three years. The value of each award is charged to
compensation expense over the period of vesting. At each reporting date, the compensation expense and liability are adjusted to reflect the changes in market value of the liability based on the fair values of RSUs for each vesting period
determined using the Black-Scholes model.
As at December 31, 2014, 1,221,126 (December 31, 2013 708,609) restricted share units had been
granted and were outstanding at an aggregate value of $0.1 (December 31, 2013 $0.5).
33
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
(g) |
Summary of Share-based compensation and employee benefits |
The following table details the components of
share-based compensation expense:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year ended December 31, 2014 |
|
|
Year ended December 31, 2013 |
|
Registered retirement savings plan |
|
$ |
1.4 |
|
|
$ |
1.4 |
|
Common share stock options |
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
Restricted share units |
|
|
(0.2 |
) |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
1.8 |
|
|
$ |
1.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As at December 31, 2014, the number of shares issued or issuable pursuant to awards made under all share-based
compensation plans of the Company, which were subject to the cap, represents 1.29% of the Companys total issued and outstanding common shares.
(h) |
Other Stock-Based Settlements |
On March 8, 2013, the
Company settled an obligation of $1.0 relating to NAP Quebec achieving specified production targets through the issuance of 709,220 common shares of the Company.
15. |
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS |
The Company has exposure to the following risks from its use of financial instruments: credit risk, market risk, currency risk, interest rate risk, commodity
price risk and liquidity risk.
Credit Risk
Credit
risk is the risk of financial loss to the Company if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. The Company limits credit risk by entering into business arrangements with high-quality
counterparties.
The Companys exposure arises from its cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and HST receivable. The Company invests its
cash and cash equivalents primarily with major Canadian banks and sells its product to large international companies with strong credit ratings. Historically, the Company has not experienced any losses related to individual customers or HST
receivable.
The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date
was:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2014 |
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
$ |
4.1 |
|
|
$ |
9.8 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
|
75.4 |
|
|
|
38.6 |
|
HST receivable |
|
|
0.8 |
|
|
|
4.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
80.3 |
|
|
$ |
52.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
34
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Market Risk
Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. Market risk is
comprised of currency, interest rate, and commodity price risks.
Currency risk
Currency risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in foreign exchange rates.
Currency risk is related to the portion of the Companys business transactions denominated in currencies other than Canadian dollars. The Company is exposed to fluctuations in exchange rates due to revenues, certain of its long-term debt and
foreign based suppliers being in foreign currencies. The Companys primary exposure is based upon the movements of the US dollar against the Canadian dollar. The Companys foreign exchange risk management includes, from time to time, the
use of foreign currency forward contracts to fix exchange rates on certain foreign currency exposures.
For the Companys foreign exchange
transactions, fluctuations in the respective exchange rates relative to the Canadian dollar will create volatility in the Companys cash flows and the reported amounts for revenue, operating costs, and exploration costs on a year-to-year basis.
Additional earnings volatility arises from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than Canadian dollars at the rates of exchange at each balance sheet date, the impact of which is reported as a separate
component of revenue or foreign exchange gain or loss in the consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss.
The Company is exposed to the
following currency risk on cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and borrowings at December 31, 2014.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
US$ |
|
Cash |
|
$ |
1.6 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
|
65.0 |
|
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities |
|
|
(5.7 |
) |
Credit facility |
|
|
(31.7 |
) |
Long-term debt |
|
|
(173.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(144.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
A 1% strengthening or weakening of the Canadian dollar against the US dollar, assuming that all other variables remained the
same, would have resulted in a $1.4 decrease or increase, respectively, in the Companys statement of loss and comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2014.
The Companys revenue is affected by currency exchange rates, such that a weakening in the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar will result in
additional revenues and a strengthening in the Canadian dollar will result in reduced revenues.
Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates.
The Company does not enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. The Company does not hold any specific hedging instruments, nor does it hold any short term investments that would be significantly impacted from fluctuations
in interest rates. Any interest rate fluctuations realized are expected to be offset by favourable changes in the interest on debt instruments.
35
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
A 1% increase or decrease in the interest rate on the Companys credit facility would have not have a
significant impact on the Companys statement of loss and comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2014.
Commodity price risk
Commodity price risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in commodity
prices. The Company is particularly exposed to fluctuations in commodity prices from its sale of metals. From time to time the Company may enter into forward commodity sales contracts to hedge the effect on revenues of changes in the price of metals
it produces. Gains and losses on derivative financial instruments used to mitigate metal price risk are recognized in revenue from metal sales over the term of the hedging contract.
The Company enters into financial contracts to mitigate the smelter agreements provisional pricing exposure to rising or declining palladium prices and
an appreciating Canadian dollar for past production already sold. The total of these financial contracts represent 12,800 ounces as at December 31, 2014 (31,000 ounces as at December 31, 2013). These contracts mature in February 2015 (2013
- January 2014 through April 2014) at an average forward price of $942 per ounce (or US$812 per ounce) (2013 - $768 per ounce (or US$735 per ounce)). For substantially all of the palladium delivered to the customers under the smelter agreements, the
quantities and timing of settlement specified in the financial contracts matches final pricing settlement periods. The palladium financial contracts are being recognized on a mark-to-market basis as an adjustment to revenue. The fair value of these
contracts at December 31, 2014 was a receivable of $0.2 included in accounts receivable (December 31, 2013 - $0.2).
As at December 31, 2014,
the Companys exposure to commodity price is limited to accounts receivable associated with provisional pricing of metal concentrate sales particularly palladium. A 1% strengthening or weakening of the palladium price would have resulted in an
approximate $0.1 decrease or increase, respectively, in the Companys loss and comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2014.
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the
Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Companys liquidity may be adversely affected by operating performance, a downturn in capital market conditions impacting access to capital markets, or
entity-specific conditions. The Company manages liquidity risk by maintaining adequate cash and cash equivalent balances, by having adequate available credit facilities, by preparing and monitoring detailed budgets and cash flow forecasts for
mining, exploration and corporate activities, and by monitoring developments in the capital markets. Forecasting takes into account the Companys debt financing, covenant compliance and the maturity profile of financial assets and liabilities
and purchase obligations.
The table below analyzes the Companys financial liabilities which will be settled into relevant maturity groupings based
on the remaining balances at December 31, 2014 to the contractual maturity date.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
In less than 1 year |
|
|
Between 1 year and 3 years |
|
|
More than 3 years |
|
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities |
|
$ |
28.8 |
|
|
$ |
28.8 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
Credit facility |
|
|
36.8 |
|
|
|
36.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Obligations under finance leases |
|
|
18.8 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
13.7 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
Long-term debt |
|
|
226.1 |
|
|
|
7.3 |
|
|
|
218.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
The Company also has asset retirement obligations in the amount of $15.8 that would become payable at the time of the closure
of its LDI mine. As the Company issued letters of credit of $14.1 related to these obligations, $1.7 additional funding is required prior to or upon closure of these properties. The letter of credit obligation is not included in the table above.
Refer to notes 9 and 10 for additional disclosures regarding these amounts. The majority of the asset retirement costs are expected to be incurred within one year of mine closure. Refer also to note 17.
36
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Fair Values
The Companys financial assets and liabilities consist of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities, credit
facility, current derivative liabilities, obligations under finance leases and long-term debt.
Cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, current
derivative liabilities, and 2014 Tranche 1 and Tranche 2 debentures and warrants are stated at fair value. The carrying value of other assets and trade accounts payable and accrued liabilities and the amount outstanding under the credit facility
approximate their fair values due to the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments.
Derivatives
The fair value of forward exchange contracts is based on their listed market price, if available. If a listed market price is not available, then fair value is
estimated by discounting the difference between the contractual forward price and the current forward price for the residual maturity of the contract using a risk-free interest rate.
Fair values reflect the credit risk of the instrument and include adjustments to take into account the credit risk of the Company entity and counterparty when
appropriate.
The Company enters into financial contracts to mitigate the smelter agreements provisional pricing exposure to rising or declining
palladium prices and an appreciating Canadian dollar for past production already sold. For substantially all of the palladium delivered to customers under smelter agreements, the quantities and timing of settlement specified in the financial
contracts matches final pricing settlement periods. The palladium financial contracts are being recognized on a mark-to-market basis as an adjustment to revenue.
The derivative liability relating to the palladium warrants issued in connection with the 2011 senior secured note issuance was measured at fair value prior
to the maturity and exercise of the warrants in October 2014. Refer to note 12.
Other non-derivative financial liabilities
The fair values of the senior secured term loan, 2012 convertible debentures and finance leases, which are determined for disclosure purposes, are calculated
based on the present value of future principal and interest cash flows, discounted at the estimated market rate of interest at the reporting date. For finance leases the estimated market rate of interest is determined by reference to similar lease
agreements.
The fair values of the non-derivative financial liabilities are comprised of the following as at each reporting date:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At December 31 2014 |
|
|
At December 31 2013 |
|
Senior secured term loan |
|
$ |
201.0 |
|
|
$ |
183.5 |
|
Convertible debentures (2012) |
|
|
45.2 |
|
|
|
43.0 |
|
Finance leases |
|
|
18.8 |
|
|
|
11.7 |
|
37
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Fair Value Hierarchy
The table below details the fair values of the assets and liabilities at December 31, 2014:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notes |
|
|
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) |
|
|
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) |
|
|
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
|
|
Aggregate Fair Value |
|
Financial assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
4.1 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
4.1 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
75.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
75.2 |
|
Fair value of financial contracts* |
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Financial liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Senior secured term loan |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
201.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
201.0 |
|
Convertible debentures (2012) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
45.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
45.2 |
|
Finance leases |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
18.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
18.8 |
|
Fair value of convertible debentures and warrants |
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
(0.4 |
) |
|
|
(1.8 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net carrying value |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
3.7 |
|
|
$ |
338.6 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
342.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
As detailed in note 5, the asset relating to the mark-to-market on financial contracts is included in the carrying value of accounts receivable on the balance sheet. |
The table below details the fair values of the assets and liabilities at December 31, 2013:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Notes |
|
|
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) |
|
|
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) |
|
|
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) |
|
|
Aggregate Fair Value |
|
Financial assets |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
9.8 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
9.8 |
|
Accounts receivable |
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
38.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
38.6 |
|
Fair value of financial contracts* |
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Other |
|
|
7 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Financial liabilities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Senior secured term loan |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
183.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
183.5 |
|
Convertible debentures (2012) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
43.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
43.0 |
|
Finance leases |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
11.7 |
|
Fair value of current derivative liability |
|
|
12 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net carrying value |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
10.0 |
|
|
$ |
276.5 |
|
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
286.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
* |
As detailed in note 5, the asset relating to the mark-to-market on financial contracts is included in the carrying value of accounts receivable on the balance sheet. |
The Companys objective is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development
of the business.
Management defines capital as the Companys total shareholders equity and any outstanding debt. The board of directors does
not establish quantitative return on capital criteria for management but rather promotes year over year sustainable profitable growth.
In order to
maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Company may issue new shares, issue new debt or replace existing debt with different characteristics.
38
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
(a) |
Sheridan Platinum Group of Companies (SPG) Commitment |
The Company is required to pay a 5%
net smelter royalty to SPG from mining operations at the Lac des Iles mine. This obligation is recorded as royalty expense.
(b) |
Operating Leases and Other Purchase Obligations |
As at December 31, 2014, the Company had
outstanding operating lease commitments and other purchase obligations of $2.8 and $5.1 respectively (December 31, 2013 $4.4 and $1.0 respectively) the majority of which had maturities of less than five years (see also note 11).
As at December 31, 2014, the Company had outstanding letters of credit of $15.4,
consisting of $14.4 for various mine closure deposits and $1.0 for a regulated energy supplier (December 31, 2013 - $15.4 outstanding letters of credit, consisting of $14.4 for various mine closure deposits and $1.0 for a regulated energy supplier).
18. |
REVENUE FROM METAL SALES |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
Palladium |
|
|
Platinum |
|
|
Gold |
|
|
Nickel |
|
|
Copper |
|
|
Other Metals |
|
2014 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year ended December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue before pricing adjustments1 |
|
$ |
215.7 |
|
|
$ |
155.8 |
|
|
$ |
19.6 |
|
|
$ |
16.1 |
|
|
$ |
13.8 |
|
|
$ |
10.3 |
|
|
$ |
0.1 |
|
Pricing adjustments: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodities |
|
|
1.8 |
|
|
|
2.2 |
|
|
|
(0.5 |
) |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Foreign exchange |
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
1.4 |
|
|
|
0.5 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue after pricing adjustments |
|
$ |
220.1 |
|
|
$ |
159.4 |
|
|
$ |
19.6 |
|
|
$ |
16.6 |
|
|
$ |
14.2 |
|
|
$ |
10.2 |
|
|
$ |
0.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2013 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Year ended December 31 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue before pricing adjustments1 |
|
$ |
152.3 |
|
|
$ |
101.5 |
|
|
$ |
15.7 |
|
|
$ |
15.2 |
|
|
$ |
10.1 |
|
|
$ |
9.6 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
Pricing adjustments: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commodities |
|
|
|
|
|
|
1.5 |
|
|
|
(0.4 |
) |
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
|
|
(0.3 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Foreign exchange |
|
|
0.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
0.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue after pricing adjustments |
|
$ |
153.2 |
|
|
$ |
103.0 |
|
|
$ |
15.7 |
|
|
$ |
14.7 |
|
|
$ |
9.9 |
|
|
$ |
9.7 |
|
|
$ |
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 |
Totals for the year ended December 31, 2013 exclude gold and silver revenues amounting to $0.2 relating to the Companys NAP Quebec subsidiary. Revenues for NAP Quebec have been reported separately as part
of discontinued operations. Refer to note 4. |
During 2014, the Company delivered all of its concentrate to three customers under the
terms of the respective agreements (2013 two customers).
Although the Company sells its bulk concentrate to a limited number of customers, it is
not economically dependent upon any one customer as there are other markets throughout the world for the Companys concentrate.
39
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
19. |
INTEREST EXPENSE AND OTHER COSTS AND OTHER INCOME |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Note |
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Interest expense & other costs |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interest on finance leases |
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
0.6 |
|
|
$ |
0.8 |
|
Asset retirement obligation accretion |
|
|
9 |
|
|
|
0.4 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
Accretion expense on long-term debt |
|
|
|
|
|
|
2.8 |
|
|
|
3.2 |
|
Loss on investments |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
|
|
2.3 |
|
Interest expense |
|
|
|
|
|
|
37.3 |
|
|
|
0.3 |
|
Change in fair value of palladium warrants |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
Change in fair value of convertible debentures |
|
|
|
|
|
|
6.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
Legal settlement |
|
|
20 |
|
|
|
1.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
49.6 |
|
|
$ |
6.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in fair value of palladium warrants |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(1.1 |
) |
Change in fair value of warrants |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(4.6 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Other income on renouncement of flow-through expenditures |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
Interest income |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
(0.1 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(4.7 |
) |
|
$ |
(2.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
44.9 |
|
|
$ |
4.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
From time to time, the Company is involved in litigation, investigations, or proceedings related to claims arising in the ordinary course of business. The
Company considers its provisions for outstanding and pending legal claims to be adequate. The final outcome with respect to actions outstanding or pending as at December 31, 2014 cannot be predicted with certainty.
In 2000, LDI and B.R. Davidson Mining & Development Ltd.
(Davidson) entered into a construction contract whereby Davidson agreed to construct an expanded tailings management facility at the LDI Mine. LDI declared Davidson to be in default of the contract on February 2, 2001 and made a
demand under a performance bond issued by AXA Pacific Insurance Company (AXA). Davidson was the principal named in the bond and the indemnitors were Davidson, Atikokan Ready Mix Ltd., Blaine R. Davidson, Bruce R. Davidson and Marlene
Davidson. AXA commenced an action against the indemnitors. All of the indemnitors other than Marlene Davidson commenced a third party action against LDI, LDIs engineers, and LDIs bond broker. The third party action was for $10.9 in the
event that the construction contract was enforced or approximately $3 in the event the construction contract was not enforced plus other damage claims for between $10 and $15 plus costs and interest. LDI had a counterclaim against Davidson for $10.7
in liquidated damages for breach of contract and approximately $2.6 in principal and interest judgments against Davidson related to subtrade liens.
On
July 2, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement to settle the third party action and all other claims. Under the terms of the settlement the Company paid $1.0 to Davidsons counsel in trust, a portion of which may only be released upon
the satisfaction of certain conditions. The settlement is recorded in interest expense and other costs. Refer to note 19.
40
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
In 2011, the Company became aware that a statement of claim had been filed with the
Ontario Superior Court of Justice against the Company and two of its former officers regarding a potential class action lawsuit. The statement of claim sought permission of the court to commence a class action proceeding for alleged
misrepresentations in the Companys public disclosure. In 2012, a fresh Statement of Claim was filed increasing the amount of the claim to $100.
On June 24, 2014, the Company entered into a settlement agreement, subject to court approval. On June 26, 2014, the $2.4 settlement was paid into
escrow by the Companys insurer. The class action settlement was approved by the court on September 16, 2014.
Rate Reconciliation
The provision for income and mining
taxes differs from the amount that would have resulted by applying the combined Canadian Federal and Ontario statutory income tax rates of approximately 26.5% (2013 26.5%):
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 2014 |
|
|
December 31 2013 |
|
Income tax recovery using statutory income tax rates |
|
$ |
(17.7 |
) |
|
$ |
(13.4 |
) |
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Change in unrecognized temporary differences |
|
|
14.9 |
|
|
|
19.3 |
|
Statutory permanent differences |
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
(6.1 |
) |
Recognition of Ontario Resource Tax Credits |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2.2 |
) |
Difference in statutory tax rates |
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax (recovery) expense |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(2.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Components of Income tax expense
The details of the Companys income tax expense (recovery) are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 2014 |
|
|
December 31 2013 |
|
Current income tax expense (recovery): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current period |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(0.8 |
) |
Adjustments for prior period |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.4 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
|
|
|
$ |
(2.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred tax liabilities
At December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, net deferred tax liabilities were $nil and there were no changes in deferred tax liabilities.
Unrecognized deferred tax assets
Deferred income tax
assets have not been recognized in respect of the following items:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31 2014 |
|
|
December 31 2013 |
|
Loss carryforwards |
|
$ |
97.1 |
|
|
$ |
95.4 |
|
Deductible temporary differences, income taxes |
|
$ |
43.6 |
|
|
$ |
29.3 |
|
Deductible temporary differences, mining taxes |
|
$ |
3.3 |
|
|
$ |
3.7 |
|
The tax losses not recognized expire as per the amount and years noted below. The deductible temporary differences do not
expire under current tax legislation. Deferred tax assets have not been recognized in respect of these items because it is not probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the Company can utilize the benefits there from.
41
2014 Annual Report
North American Palladium Ltd.
Income tax attributes
As at December 31, 2014, the Company had the following approximate income tax attributes to carry forward:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amount |
|
|
Expiry Date |
|
Non-capital losses |
|
$ |
318.4 |
|
|
|
2015 - 2034 |
|
Capital losses |
|
$ |
109.7 |
|
|
|
Indefinite |
|
Undepreciated capital cost allowance |
|
$ |
196.7 |
|
|
|
Indefinite |
|
Tax basis of mining interests |
|
$ |
318.8 |
|
|
|
Indefinite |
|
Statement of Cash flows
The net changes in non-cash
working capital balances related to operations are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2014 |
|
|
2013 |
|
Cash provided by (used in): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable |
|
$ |
(36.9 |
) |
|
$ |
15.4 |
|
Inventories |
|
|
(0.7 |
) |
|
|
1.0 |
|
Other assets |
|
|
2.6 |
|
|
|
(0.9 |
) |
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities |
|
|
(17.0 |
) |
|
|
(13.7 |
) |
Taxes payable |
|
|
(1.2 |
) |
|
|
(2.0 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ |
(53.2 |
) |
|
$ |
(0.2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In January 2015, 2014 Tranche 2 Convertible Debentures with a face value of $0.8 were converted into 3,072,060 common shares. Refer to Note 12.
42
2014 Annual Report
Exhibit 1.4
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors of North American Palladium Ltd.
We
have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of North American Palladium Ltd. as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, shareholders equity and
cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of North American Palladium Ltd.s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards and the
standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit
includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the
overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated
financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of North American Palladium Ltd. as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and its consolidated financial performance and its
consolidated cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), North American Palladium Ltd.s
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal ControlIntegrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO),
and our report dated February 18, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of North American Palladium Ltd.s internal control over financial reporting.
Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants
February 18, 2015
Toronto, Canada
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING
FIRM ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
To the Board of Directors of North American Palladium Ltd.
We
have audited North American Palladium Ltd.s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal ControlIntegrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). North American Palladium Ltd.s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal
control over financial reporting, included in Managements Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting in the annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd. for the year ended December 31, 2014. Our responsibility is
to express an opinion on the Companys internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the
standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in
all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal
control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A companys internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial
reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A companys internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that
(1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as
necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors
of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the companys assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of
effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, North American Palladium Ltd. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal ControlIntegrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of
North American Palladium Ltd. as of December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, shareholders equity and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2014 and
December 31, 2013, and our report dated February 18, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants
February 18, 2015
Toronto, Canada
Exhibit 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors of North American Palladium Ltd.
We
consent to the use in this Annual Report on Form 40-F of:
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our Independent Auditors Report dated February 18, 2015 on the consolidated financial statements of North American Palladium Ltd. comprising the consolidated balance sheets as at December 31, 2014 and December 31,
2013, consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, shareholders equity and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and notes comprising a summary of significant accounting policies and other
explanatory information; |
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our Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm dated February 18, 2015 on the consolidated balance sheets of North American Palladium Ltd. as at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 and the
related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive loss, shareholders equity and cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013 |
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our Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm on Internal Control over Financial Reporting dated February 18, 2015 on North American Palladium Ltd.s internal control over financial reporting as
of December 31, 2014 |
each of which is contained in this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd. for the fiscal
year ended December 31, 2014.
We also consent to the incorporation by reference of such reports in the Registration Statements on Form F-10 (File
No. 333-200762) and Form S-8 (File No. 333-13766) of North American Palladium Ltd.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants
March 31, 2015
Toronto, Canada
KPMG LLP is a Canadian limited liability partnership and a member firm of the KPMG
network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative
(KPMG International) a Swiss entity.
KPMG Canada provides services to KPMG LLP.
Exhibit 23.2
Consent of Dave Peck
I consent to the inclusion in this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd., which is being filed with the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission, of references to my name and references to my involvement in the preparation of NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario Incorporating a Preliminary Economic Assessment of Mine Expansion
Plan (effective date of February 18, 2015) included in the 2014 Annual Information Form of North American Palladium Ltd., dated March 31, 2015 (the AIF).
I also consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-13766) and Registration
Statement on Form F-10 (File No. 333-200762) of the references to my name and the above-mentioned information in the AIF.
Dated this
31st day of March, 2015.
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Per: |
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/s/ Dave Peck |
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Dave Peck, P.Geo. |
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Vice President, Exploration |
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North American Palladium Ltd. |
Exhibit 23.3
Consent of Denis Decharte
I consent to the inclusion in this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd., which is being filed with the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission, of references to my name and references to my involvement in the preparation of NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario Incorporating a Preliminary Economic Assessment of Mine Expansion
Plan (effective date of February 18, 2015) included in the 2014 Annual Information Form of North American Palladium Ltd., dated March 31, 2015 (the AIF).
I also consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-13766) and Registration
Statement on Form F-10 (File No. 333-200762) of the references to my name and the above-mentioned information in the AIF.
Dated this
31st day of March, 2015.
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Per: |
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/s/ Denis Decharte |
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Denis Decharte, P.Eng. |
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Resource Modeller |
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Lac des Iles Mines Ltd. |
Exhibit 23.4
Consent of Dave Penna
I consent to the inclusion in this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd., which is being filed with the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission, of references to my name and references to my involvement in the preparation of NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario Incorporating a Preliminary Economic Assessment of Mine Expansion
Plan (effective date of February 18, 2015) included in the 2014 Annual Information Form of North American Palladium Ltd., dated March 31, 2015 (the AIF).
I also consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-13766) and Registration
Statement on Form F-10 (File No. 333-200762) of the references to my name and the above-mentioned information in the AIF.
Dated this
31st day of March, 2015.
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Per: |
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/s/ Dave Penna |
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Dave Penna, P.Geo. |
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Principal Geologist |
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Lac des Iles Mines Ltd. |
Exhibit 23.5
Consent of Chris Roney
I
consent to the inclusion in this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd., which is being filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, of references to my name and references to my involvement in the
preparation of NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario Incorporating a Preliminary Economic Assessment of Mine Expansion Plan (effective date of February 18, 2015) included in the 2014 Annual Information Form of
North American Palladium Ltd., dated March 31, 2015 (the AIF).
I also consent to the incorporation by reference
in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-13766) and Registration Statement on Form F-10 (File No. 333-200762) of the references to my name and the above-mentioned information in the AIF.
Dated this 31st day of March, 2015.
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Per: |
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/s/ Chris Roney |
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Chris Roney, P.Geo. |
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Consulting Geologist |
Exhibit 23.6
Consent of Brian Young
I
consent to the inclusion in this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd., which is being filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, of references to my name and references to my involvement in the
preparation of NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario Incorporating a Preliminary Economic Assessment of Mine Expansion Plan (effective date of February 18, 2015) included in the 2014 Annual Information Form of
North American Palladium Ltd., dated March 31, 2015 (the AIF).
I also consent to the incorporation by reference
in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-13766) and Registration Statement on Form F-10 (File No. 333-200762) of the references to my name and the above-mentioned information in the AIF.
Dated this 31st day of March, 2015.
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Per: |
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/s/ Brian Young |
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Brian Young, P.Eng. |
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Senior Mining Consultant |
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Hatch Ltd. |
Exhibit 23.7
Consent of Robert Duinker
I consent to the inclusion in this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd., which is being filed with the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission, of references to my name and references to my involvement in the preparation of NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario Incorporating a Preliminary Economic Assessment of Mine Expansion
Plan (effective date of February 18, 2015) included in the 2014 Annual Information Form of North American Palladium Ltd., dated March 31, 2015 (the AIF).
I also consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-13766) and Registration
Statement on Form F-10 (File No. 333-200762) of the references to my name and the above-mentioned information in the AIF.
Dated this
31st day of March, 2015.
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Per: |
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/s/ Robert Duinker |
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Robert Duinker, P.Eng. |
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Senior Consultant |
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Hatch Ltd. |
Exhibit 23.8
Consent of Babak Houdeh
I consent to the inclusion in this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd., which is being filed with the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission, of references to my name and references to my involvement in the preparation of NI 43-101 Technical Report for Lac des Iles Mine, Ontario Incorporating a Preliminary Economic Assessment of Mine Expansion
Plan (effective date of February 18, 2015) included in the 2014 Annual Information Form of North American Palladium Ltd., dated March 31, 2015 (the AIF).
I also consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-13766) and Registration
Statement on Form F-10 (File No. 333-200762) of the references to my name and the above-mentioned information in the AIF.
Dated this
31st day of March, 2015.
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Per: |
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/s/ Babak Houdeh |
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Babak Houdeh, P.Eng. |
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Senior Mineral Processing Engineer |
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Hatch Ltd. |
Exhibit 31.1
Certifications
Pursuant
to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
I, Phil du Toit, certify that:
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1. |
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd.; |
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2. |
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; |
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3. |
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the
issuer as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; |
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4. |
The issuers other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control
over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the issuer and have: |
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(a) |
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the issuer, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; |
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Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; |
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(c) |
Evaluated the effectiveness of the issuers disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and |
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(d) |
Disclosed in this report any change in the issuers internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to
materially affect, the issuers internal control over financial reporting; and |
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5. |
The issuers other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the issuers auditors and the audit committee of the
issuers board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): |
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(a) |
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the issuers ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; and |
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(b) |
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the issuers internal control over financial reporting. |
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Date: March 31, 2015 |
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/s/ Phil du Toit |
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By: |
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Phil du Toit |
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Title: |
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Chief Executive Officer |
I, David Langille, certify that:
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1. |
I have reviewed this annual report on Form 40-F of North American Palladium Ltd.; |
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2. |
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such
statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report; |
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3. |
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the
issuer as of, and for, the periods presented in this report; |
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4. |
The issuers other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control
over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the issuer and have: |
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(a) |
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the issuer, including its
consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared; |
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(b) |
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; |
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(c) |
Evaluated the effectiveness of the issuers disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the
period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and |
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(d) |
Disclosed in this report any change in the issuers internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to
materially affect, the issuers internal control over financial reporting; and |
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5. |
The issuers other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the issuers auditors and the audit committee of the
issuers board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions): |
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(a) |
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the issuers ability to record, process,
summarize and report financial information; and |
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(b) |
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the issuers internal control over financial reporting. |
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Date: March 31, 2015 |
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/s/ David Langille |
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By: |
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David Langille |
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Title: |
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Chief Financial Officer |
Exhibit 32.1
Certification of CEO and CFO
Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of North American Palladium Ltd. (the Issuer) on Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2014, as
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the Report), Phil du Toit, as Chief Executive Officer of the Issuer, and David Langille, as Chief Financial Officer of the Issuer, each hereby certifies, pursuant to
18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, to the best of his knowledge, that:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of
the Issuer.
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/s/ Phil du Toit |
By: |
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Phil du Toit |
Title: |
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Chief Executive Officer |
Dated: |
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March 31, 2015 |
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/s/ David Langille |
By: |
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David Langille |
Title: |
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Chief Financial Officer |
Dated: |
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March 31, 2015 |
This certification accompanies the Report pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and shall not, except
to the extent required by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, be deemed filed by the Issuer for purposes of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
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