U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
Form 10-K
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ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES
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For
the fiscal year ended
December 31, 2007
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TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF
THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
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For
the transition period from _________ to __________
Commission File Number
0-50218
BEKEM METALS, INC.
(Name
of Small Business Issuer in its charter)
Utah
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87-0669131
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(State or other jurisdiction of
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(I.R.S. Employer
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incorporation or organization)
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Identification No.)
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170 Tchaikovsky Street, 4
th
Floor
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Almaty, Kazakhstan
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050000
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(Address of principal executive offices)
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(Zip code)
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+
7 7272 582
386
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(Registrant’s telephone number, including area
code)
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Securities registered pursuant to section 12(b) of the Exchange
Act:
None
Securities registered pursuant to section 12(g) of the Exchange
Act:
Common, $0.001 par value
Indicate
by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405
of the Securities Act.
o
Yes
x
No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports
pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act from their obligations
under those
Sections.
o
Yes
x
No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements
for the past 90
days.
x
Yes
o
No
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to
Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form
10-K.
o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated
filed, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting
company.
Large accelerated Filer
o
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Accelerated Filer
o
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Non-accelerated Filer
o
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Smaller Reporting Company
x
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Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as
defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.)
The
aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as
of June 30, 2007 was $49,503,740 based upon the closing stock price of $1.70 (the
closing price on June 29, 2007) per share as reported on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin
Board.
As
of April 7, 2008, the registrant had 125,172,011 shares of common stock, par value
$0.001, issued and outstanding.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: None
2
Table of Contents
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Page
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PART I
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Item 1.
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Business
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4
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Item 1A.
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Risk Factors
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27
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Item 1B.
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Unresolved Staff Comments
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30
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Item 2.
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Properties
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30
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Item 3.
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Legal Proceedings
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30
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Item 4.
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Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security
Holders
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31
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PART II
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Item 5.
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Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related
Stockholder Matters and
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Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
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31
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Item 6.
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Selected Financial Data
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34
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Item 7.
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Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition
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and Results of Operations
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35
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Item 7A.
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Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market
Risk
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44
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Item 8.
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Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
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45
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Item 9.
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Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
Accounting
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and Financial Disclosure
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45
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Item 9A(T).
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Controls and Procedures
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45
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Item 9B.
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Other Information
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46
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PART III
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Item 10.
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Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate
Governance
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47
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Item 11.
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Executive Compensation
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52
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Item 12.
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Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and
Management
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and Related Stockholder Matters
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62
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Item 13.
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Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and
Director Independence
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64
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Item 14.
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Principal Accounting Fees and Services
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64
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Item 15.
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Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
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65
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SIGNATURES
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66
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3
BEKEM METALS, INC.
Unless otherwise indicated by the context, references herein to the
“Company”, “BMI”, “we”, our” or
“us” means Bekem Metals, Inc., a Utah corporation, and its corporate
subsidiaries and predecessors
.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain statements contained herein including, but not limited to those
relating to our plan of operations, future potential revenue, future expenses, future
exploration of our mineral properties, the development and commercial viability of our
processing technology, our ability to obtain future governmental approvals, expansion
of our activities, our ability to generate cash flow, future demand for nickel, cobalt
and brown coal, future commodity prices, integration of new technologies into
operations, credit facilities, future capital expenditures and working capital,
sufficiency of future working capital, borrowings and capital resources and liquidity,
expectations of timing, satisfaction of contingencies, the impact of any change in
accounting policies on our financial statements, future acquisitions,
management’s assessment of internal control over financial reporting, financial
results, opportunities, growth, business plans and strategy and other statements that
are not historical facts contained in this report are forward-looking statements. When
used in this document, words like
“
believe
,”
“
expect
,”
“
project
,”
“
intend
,”
“
estimate
,”
“
budget
,”
“
plan
,”
“
forecast
,”
“
predict
,”
“
may
,”
“
will
,”
“
could
,”
“
should
,” or
“
anticipates
” and
similar expressions or the negative thereof, or other variations thereon, or comparable
terminology, or discussions of strategy that involve risk and uncertainties are also
intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements involve known and
unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results,
performance or achievements of the Company or industry to be materially different from
any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such
forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to, market
factors, market prices (including regional basis differentials) of nickel, cobalt and
brown coal, results of future exploration and extraction activities, future costs,
unsettled political conditions, civil unrest and governmental actions, foreign currency
fluctuations, and environmental and labor laws and other factors detailed herein. Given
these uncertainties, prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on
such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on current
expectations, and we assume no obligation to update this information. We undertake no
obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a
result of new information, future events or otherwise.
PART I
Company History
Bekem Metals, Inc. is engaged in the exploration of nickel, cobalt and
brown coal in the Republic of Kazakhstan.
We incorporated in the state of Utah under the name EMPS Research
Corporation on January 30, 2001. Until the end of the 2004 fiscal year, our primary
business focus was the development, marketing and licensing of our patented technology
for use in commercially separating nonmagnetic
particulate
material by building and testing a high frequency eddy-current separator
(“HFECS”).
4
We changed our name to Bekem Metals, Inc., on March 16, 2005 following
our acquisition of Condesa Pacific, S.A., a British Virgin Islands international
business company, and its wholly owned subsidiary Kaznickel, LLP in January 2005. With
the acquisition of Kaznickel, our primary business focus shifted from the development
of our HFECS technology to exploring for nickel and cobalt in Kazakhstan. On July 24,
2006 Condesa transferred its interest in Kaznickel to Bekem, making Kaznickel a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Bekem. On October 1, 2006 Bekem sold Condesa to a third
party for nominal value.
The primary asset of Kaznickel is an exploration and production
concession issued by the government of the Republic of Kazakhstan which grants
Kaznickel the exclusive right, through February 2008, to explore for nickel, cobalt and
other minerals in a 12,232 acre area in northeastern Kazakhstan known as the
Gornostayevskoye (“Gornostai”) deposit. In January 2008 Kaznickel agreed
with the Expert Committee of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of the
Republic of Kazakhstan (the “MEMR”) to an extension of the exploration
period to February 2010. Currently, Kaznickel is in the process of signing the addendum
to its subsoil use contract to reflect these changes. The concession further provides
that if we make a commercial discovery of nickel, cobalt or other minerals within the
concession territory, we can apply for and receive the exclusive rights to commercially
produce and sell nickel and cobalt ore through February 2026.
On October 24, 2005 we acquired Kazakh Metals, Inc. (“KMI”),
and its wholly owned subsidiary Kyzyl Kain Mamyt (“KKM”), LLP in exchange
for 61,200,000 shares of our common stock. KKM holds the exclusive subsoil use contract
to extract and process nickel and cobalt ore from its Kempirsai deposit, which is
comprised of the Kara-Obinskoye, and Stepninskoye sections (collectively referred to as
the “Kara-Obinskoye section”) and Novo-Shandashinskoye section, and brown
coal from its Mamyt deposit. Unless otherwise indicated by the context of the
disclosure, the Kara-Obinskoye section, the Novo-Shandashinskoye section and the Mamyt
deposit are collectively referred to herein as the “Kempirsai deposit.”
Under the applicable accounting reporting rules, KMI was considered the accounting
acquirer.
On December 10, 2007, the MEMR unilaterally terminated KKM’s
contracts and licenses to explore for nickel, cobalt, brown coal, and other minerals
within the Kempirsai and the Mamyt deposits on the basis that KKM had material failures
in execution of the work programs associated with the contacts and licenses but did not
detail those failures. In January 2008, KKM filed an action in the Court of Astana city
against the MEMR challenging the legality of the unilateral termination of the KKM
contracts and licenses by the MEMR for several reasons, including that the contracts
and licenses had been terminated on grounds not provided for in the subsoil use
contracts and legislation and there were no material failures in the execution of the
work programs associated with the contracts and licenses. In February 2008, the Court
of Astana city acknowledged that the unilateral termination of the contracts and
licenses by the MEMR was illegitimate. The Court canceled the order of the MEMR
relating to the unilateral termination of the licenses and reinstated the KKM contracts
and licenses. In March 2008, the MEMR appealed the Court’s decision to the
Republic of Kazakhstan Supreme Court. The Supreme Court decision is expected by the end
of April 2008.
5
Business of the Company
The Nickel Market
In January 2008 the United States Geological Survey (“USGS”)
reported the world mine reserves of nickel and the world mine reserves base of nickel
in 2007 were 67 million tons and 150 million tons, respectively.
|
Mine production
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Reserves
(1)
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Reserve base
(2)
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2006
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2007
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United States
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—
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—
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—
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150,000
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Australia
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185,000
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180,000
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24,000,000
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27,000,000
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Botswana
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38,000
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35,000
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490,000
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920,000
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Brazil
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82,500
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75,300
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4,500,000
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8,300,000
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Canada
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233,000
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258,000
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4,900,000
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15,000,000
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China
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82,100
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80,000
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1,100,000
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7,600,000
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Colombia
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94,100
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99,500
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830,000
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1,100,000
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Cuba
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75,000
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77,000
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5,600,000
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23,000,000
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Dominican Republic
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46,500
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47,000
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720,000
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1,000,000
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Greece
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21,700
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20,100
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490,000
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900,000
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Indonesia
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140,000
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145,000
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3,200,000
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13,000,000
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New Caledonia
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103,000
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119,000
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7,100,000
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15,000,000
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Philippines
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58,900
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88,400
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940,000
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5,200,000
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Russia
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320,000
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322,000
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6,600,000
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9,200,000
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South Africa
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41,600
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42,000
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3,700,000
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12,000,000
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Venezuela
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20,000
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20,000
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560,000
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630,000
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Zimbabwe
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8,820
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9,000
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15,000
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260,000
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Other countries
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34,300
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41,000
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2,100,000
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5,900,000
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World total (rounded)
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1,580,000
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1,660,000
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67,000,000
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150,000,000
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(1)
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Reserves - that part of the reserve base which could be
economically extracted or produced at the time of determination. The
term reserves need not signify that extraction facilities are in place
and operative. Reserves include only recoverable materials; thus, terms
such as “extractable reserves” and “recoverable
reserves” are redundant and are not a part of this classification
system.
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6
(2)
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Reserve Base - that part of an identified resource that
meets specified minimum physical and chemical criteria related to
current mining and production practices, including those for grade,
quality, thickness, and depth. The reserve base is the inplace
demonstrated resource from which reserves are estimated. It may
encompass those parts of the resources that have a reasonable potential
for becoming economically available within planning horizons beyond
those that assume proven technology and current economics. The reserve
base includes those resources that are currently economic (reserves),
marginally economic (marginal reserves), and some of those that are
currently subeconomic (subeconomic resources).
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With demand growth averaging approximately 4% per annum over the past
seven years, nickel consumption has outpaced most other industrial metals. World nickel
production reached an all-time high in 2007. Total nickel production in 2007 was
approximately 1,660,000 tons. The price of nickel hit a record high of $51,800 per ton
in May 2007 before price fell nearly 50% during the ensuing months. The average price
for nickel in 2007 was about $37,181 per ton, up from $24,287 in 2006. The average
London Metal Exchange (“LME”) price for nickel in January and February 2008
were $27,690 per ton and $27,955 per ton, respectively.
There are several factors that can affect overall world nickel demand
and price. These factors include the following:
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expansion of new nickel mining capacity;
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•
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new processing technologies;
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•
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world demand for stainless-steel; and
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Expansion of New Nickel Mining Capacity
As demand and nickel prices increase, companies have sought to expand
their mining and production capacity. In 2007, the leading nickel producer in the world
- a Russian company - created an entire overseas production operation by acquiring and
then integrating existing facilities in Australia, Botswana, and Finland. The larger of
the two Canadian takeover targets is preparing to commission a laterite mining complex
at Goro, New Caledonia. Several other companies are also considering employing some
form of acid leach technology to recover nickel at greenfield sites in Brazil, Cuba,
Guatemala, Indonesia, Madagascar, and the Philippines. A new type of heap-leaching
process is being used to recover nickel in Turkey. Work is also underway on a more
traditional, ferronickel plant in Goias, Brazil.
New Processing Technologies
While demand for nickel has been and is expected to continue to be
strong, expansion of nickel production capacity has not increased as rapidly as
anticipated. Of the identified land-based nickel resources averaging 1% nickel or
greater, about 70% is in laterite deposits and 30% in sulfide deposits. Historically,
nickel production has come from higher-grade sulphide deposits because processing is
less energy-intensive and therefore less expensive. However, as sulphide deposits are
limited, interest in developing laterite deposits is increasing.
To date the success rate of laterite deposits has not been encouraging.
Several laterite mines have closed down, restructured or faced a number of issues
affecting development of new laterite deposits including technological problems such
as:
7
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•
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developing economic processing techniques;
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•
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high investment in infrastructure due to remote
locations of mines; and
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•
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environmental concerns due to surface mining
methods.
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Many New Caledonian nickel projects were to be recovered onsite using
advanced high pressure acid leach (“HPAL”) technology. However, the
significant time and cost overruns that have been encountered in trying to bring HPAL
facilities onstream have resulted in continuous delays of these projects. As a result
of these factors, capital expenditure costs for laterite operations have been nearly
double initial estimates. These extra costs are the result of the larger plants and
tailings facilities required for the beneficiation process. Some existing laterite
projects are also suffering from significantly higher operating costs as smelters have
very high energy requirements. Together with nickel price volatility, this has had a
significant impact on the timing and cost of project completion.
World Demand for Stainless Steel
Stainless steel accounts for two-thirds of global primary nickel use.
Since 1993, global stainless steel production has been growing at an average rate of
5.6% per year. Leading metal consultants CRU note that world production of stainless
steel has grown from 5 million tons per annum in 1975 to 25 million tons per annum in
2005. By 2011, they expect demand to reach 35 million tons per annum. This growth
estimate is almost entirely attributed to Chinese demand as off-take from other major
consumers is expected to stabilize. This represents a predicted growth rate of 5% per
annum, with the conclusion being that over 320,000 tons of additional primary nickel
supply will be required by 2011 over 2006. Also, continued high prices for gasoline and
other petroleum products have spurred development and production of novel hydrogen
storage and battery materials, such as lanthanum-nickel-cobalt alloys. Nickel-metal
hydride (NiMH) batteries continue to be widely used in hybrid motor vehicles, despite
inroads made by lithium-ion batteries.
Nickel Substitutes
As noted above, nickel prices climbed to unprecedented levels in the
first half of 2007 before falling back almost 50 percent over the following few months
as stainless steel producers cut back production and replaced refined nickel by nickel
pig iron for stainless steel production. Nickel pig iron and refined nickel share the
market, as long as there is high demand from stainless steel producers and shortage of
refined nickel supply. However, nickel pig iron producers face environmental
challenges, as their facilities are still regarded as environmentally damaging.
Engineers have also begun substituting low-nickel, duplex, or ultrahigh-chromium
stainless steels for austenitic grades in a few construction applications. Nickel-free
specialty steels are sometimes used in place of stainless steel within the power
generating and petrochemical industries. Titanium alloys or specialty plastics can
substitute for nickel metal or nickel-base alloys in highly corrosive chemical
environments.
8
Our Properties
As discussed above, through our subsidiaries, we hold the rights to the
Kempirsai nickel, cobalt and brown coal deposits, which are located in northwestern
Kazakhstan and the Gornostai nickel and cobalt deposit located in northeastern
Kazakhstan.
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Location and access to our properties
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Kempirsai
The Kempirsai deposit is located in the Khromtausky region of
northwestern Kazakhstan, approximately 130 kilometers northeast of Aktobe, Kazakhstan.
The nickel and cobalt deposits are located approximately 35 kilometers south of
Badamsha village, Aktobe region, Kazakhstan. The brown coal deposit is located
approximately 30 kilometers east of Badamsha village, Aktobe region, Kazakhstan.
Badamsha is a village of approximately 6,000 people. The Aktubinsk-Karabutak asphalt
highway runs within 14 kilometers to the south of the nickel and cobalt deposit. The
nickel, cobalt and brown coal deposits can be accessed through a network of country
roads. The Orsk-Kandagash state railway runs nearby the Kempirsai deposit and, through
our subsidiary KKM, we own 55 kilometers of our own railway. Our railway connects the
Kempirsai deposit to a reloading station and to a Russian railway.
9
Gornostai
The Gornostai deposit is located in the Beskaragaiskiy region of
northeastern Kazakhstan, approximately 110 kilometers west of Semey, Kazakhstan and 30
kilometers east of Kurchatov, Kazakhstan. The Gornostai deposit is divided into the
South and North sections by the navigable Irtysh River. The Gornostai deposit may be
accessed by an asphalt highway that crosses the northern part of the South section of
the deposit. The Semey-Astana railway also passes through the northern part of the
South section of the deposit.
10
Title to Properties
We hold several subsoil use contracts that grant us the right to explore
for and extract nickel, cobalt and brown coal at the Kempirsai deposit. We also hold a
subsoil use contract that currently grants us the right to explore for nickel, cobalt
and other minerals within the Gornostai deposit. Upon discovery of commercially
producible reserves we can apply to move to commercial production. For additional
information regarding our contracts please see the following table.
Territory
Name
|
Size of
Territory
|
Primary Minerals
|
License
Type
|
License or
Contract
#
|
License and
Subsoil Use Contract Term
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Kempirsai
|
575,756 acres
|
Nickel and cobalt ore
|
Production
|
MG #420
MG #426
|
Expires Oct, 12, 2011 unless extended
(1)
.
|
|
|
|
|
|
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Mamyt
|
116 acres
|
Brown coal
|
Production
|
MG #9-D
|
Expires Dec, 11 2018 unless extended
(1)
.
|
Gornostai
|
12,232 acres
|
Nickel and cobalt ore
|
Exploration
and
Production
|
1349
|
Exploration period expires Feb. 26, 2010
(2)
.
Production period expires Feb. 26, 2026 unless extended.
|
11
(1)
|
On December 10, 2007, the MEMR unilaterally terminated
KKM’s contracts and licenses to explore for nickel, cobalt, brown
coal, and other minerals within the Kempirsai and the Mamyt deposits on
the basis that KKM had material failures in execution of the work
programs associated with the contacts and licenses but did not detail
those failures. In January 2008, KKM filed an action in the Court of
Astana city against the MEMR challenging the legality of the unilateral
termination of the KKM contracts and licenses by the MEMR for several
reasons, including that the contracts and licenses had been terminated
on grounds not provided for in the subsoil use contracts and
legislation and there were no material failures in the execution of the
work programs associated with the contracts and licenses. In February
2008, the Court of Astana city acknowledged that the unilateral
termination of the contracts and licenses by the MEMR was illegitimate.
The Court canceled the order of the MEMR relating to the unilateral
termination of the licenses and reinstated the KKM contracts and
licenses. In March 2008, the MEMR appealed the Court’s decision
to the Republic of Kazakhstan Supreme Court. A final decision from the
Supreme Court is expected by the end of April 2008.
|
(2)
|
In January 2008 Kaznickel agreed with the Expert
Committee of the MEMR the extension of the exploration period up to
February 2010. Currently, Kaznickel is in the process of signing the
addendum to the subsoil use contract to reflect these
changes.
|
The term of each of our subsoil use contracts vary. Under our contracts
we have the right to negotiate with the MEMR for extensions of the terms of those
contracts. If we are unsuccessful in negotiating extensions, upon the expiration of
those contracts our interest in and rights to those properties terminates and reverts
back to the government of the Republic of Kazakhstan, but we retain the rights to all
tangible and intangible assets we acquire for exploration, extraction and production at
these deposits.
For additional details regarding the terms and obligations associated
with our subsoil use contracts and licenses please see
“
Tax and Royalty Scheme in the Republic of
Kazakhstan
” and “
Working
Programs of our Subsidiaries
” in Item
1 “
Business”, “Summary of Material
Contractual Commitments
” in Item 6
“
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations
” and
“
Note 4 – Property, Plant and Mineral
Interests
”, “
Note 7
– Asset Retirement Obligation
” and
“
Note 10 – Commitments and
Contingencies
” contained in the Notes to our
Consolidated Financial Statements.
Kempirsai
The Kempirsai deposit was discovered and actively explored during the
Soviet era. In the 1980s, the State Reserves Committee approved the reserves (based on
Soviet standards) and approved the Kempirsai deposit for commercial production. The
Kempirsai deposit was actively mined during the 1980s and early 1990s. Active mining at
the Kempirsai deposit ceased in 1996. The working program associated with these
licenses for the Kempirsai nickel, cobalt and Mamyt brown coal deposits are production
contracts, those contracts do not require us to undertake significant exploration
activities. While we do not have fixed exploration obligations, in order to retain our
licenses we are required to engage in certain activities. For details regarding our
mine production requirements see “
Working Programs of
our Subsidiaries
” in this Item
1 “
Business
.”
Gornostai
The subsoil use contract to the Gornostai deposit was issued in February
2004. At the time it was issued, the MEMR determined that additional exploration of the
deposit was necessary to determine the existence of commercially producible mineral
reserves. Therefore, the subsoil use contract provides a period for exploration. Under
the terms of the contract for the Gornostai deposit, we were granted the right to
explore for nickel and cobalt for two years. The exploration term provides for two
two-year extensions upon our request. We requested and were granted our first
extension, extending the current exploration period to February 2008. In January 2008
Kaznickel agreed with the Expert Committee of the MEMR additional two two-year
extension period up to February 2010. Currently, Kaznickel is in the process of signing
the addendum to the subsoil use contract to reflect these changes.
12
Upon discovery of commercially producible nickel and/or cobalt reserves,
we may notify the MEMR and convert from exploration stage to commercial production
stage. If we make no commercial discoveries before the end of the exploration period,
as extended, our rights to the territory will revert back to Republic of Kazakhstan.
Upon completion of exploration, we will return to the Republic of Kazakhstan the rights
to all areas within the licensed territory wherein no commercial discoveries of nickel
and/or cobalt were made. When we complete exploration of the Gornostai deposit,
assuming we make commercial discoveries, we will apply to the MEMR to move to
commercial production. At that time we will be required to pay a 0.1% commercial
discovery bonus based on the initial determination of our mineral resources by the
MEMR.
Annual Work Program of our Subsidiaries
Each year we must submit an annual work program to the MEMR’s
Territorial Division under the State Body for Subsurface Use and Protection. The annual
work program indicates the scope of exploration and or production works and finance
costs.
Kempirsai
Prior to the litigation associated with the licenses to our Kempirsai
deposits, our contracts and licenses called for KKM to extract the following amounts of
ore from the Kempirsai deposit and brown coal from the Mamyt deposit:
|
Tons of Ore
|
Tons of Brown Coal
|
2008
|
350,000
|
200,000
|
2009
|
1,000,000
|
200,000
|
2010
|
1,000,000
|
200,000
|
2011
|
1,000,000
|
200,000
|
2012
|
|
200,000
|
2013
|
|
200,000
|
2014
|
|
200,000
|
2015
|
|
200,000
|
2016
|
|
200,000
|
2017
|
|
200,000
|
2018
|
|
200,000
|
As a result of the litigation, the 2008 annual work program for KKM is
under discussion and negotiation with the MEMR’s Territorial Division under the
State Body for Subsurface Use and Protection. If the Supreme Court decision is made in
KKM’s favor, we will continue negotiations with the MEMR of the 2008 annual work
program requirements. Based on initial conversations with the MEMR, we anticipate the
financial obligations associated with our 2008 annual work program will include
financial obligations of up to $15 million.
Gornostai
The 2008 annual work programs for Kaznickel is currently under
discussion with the MEMR. We expect the 2008 work program will require us to continue
to perform exploratory drilling, sampling and assaying of core samples, metallurgical
testing and preparation of reports for the State Resource Reserves Committee. We
anticipate the financial commitment in 2008 will be approximately $1,500,000 including
exploration drilling and sampling and assaying (2,000 meters to be drilled and 1,000
core samples to be made during 2008 and 2009), metallurgical tests and preparation of
the report to the State Resource Committee.
13
For us to maintain our rights to the Kempirsai and Gornostai deposits we
must satisfy the work program requirements for each property. As evidenced by the
litigation associated with our Kempirsai deposits, if we fail to satisfy our working
program requirements we could be subject to fines and penalties or even to the
potential forfeiture of our contracts, licenses and all rights we have
thereunder.
Geology and Mineralization
Nickel ferrous laterites make up approximately 70% of all land based
nickel resources, though currently they constitute about 45% of the primary nickel
production. Nickel laterite deposits are formed as a result of prolonged weathering of
‘ultramafic’ rocks containing ferromagnesian silicate minerals. Under
conditions of warm temperatures and high, frequent rainfall, nickel leaches from the
upper layers and precipitates in the lower layers in a lattice of silicate and iron
oxide minerals.
If an ore deposit is outcropping or occurs near the surface, it can be
extracted using open cut methods. Open cut methods allow for lower cost extraction and
operating costs, which can allow low-grade deposits to be economically viable. The
topsoil and overburden are removed and stockpiled for later rehabilitation and, as the
mine increases in depth, the walls of the excavation are left at an angle to avoid
collapse. Open cut mines use large mobile machinery that enables high production rates.
Large haul trucks carry the ore and waste to surface stockpiles. Rapid rates of mining
in shallow weathered parts of the deposits slow down as the depths increase due to the
increased hardness of the material. Nickel laterites are generally mined by surface
operations up to 60 meters deep.
Kempirsai
The Kempirsai nickel and cobalt deposit is comprised of two deposits:
Kara-Obinskoye, and Novo-Shandashinskoye. These deposits are located approximately 5-10
kilometers from each other. The results of exploration carried out during the Soviet
era show that nickel and cobalt ore is located within the Kempirsai ultramafic massif.
The minerals are found in laterite form and are associated with leached nontronized
serpentinites. The ore bodies have a blanket-like shape and tend to lie conformably on
the underlying rocks. The depth of ore bodies from the surface is 0-40 meters. In
vertical section they are mainly horizontal in attitude and show variable thickness.
Thickness varies from 2.0 meters to 30.0 meters, with an average thickness of 6.0
meters. Average stripping ratio is 1.5 cubic meters per ton. The nickel content of the
ore within the Kempirsai deposit varies from 0.8% to 3.0% and cobalt – from
0.025% to 0.08%. The average nickel and cobalt content for the Kara-Obinskoye are 1.1%
and 0.066% respectively. The average nickel and cobalt content for the
Novo-Shandashinskoye deposit are 1.38% and 0.045%.
The ore reserves of the Kempirsai deposit were evaluated during the
Soviet era based on Soviet standards. The Soviet standards, however, are not consistent
with the standards established by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission
(“SEC”). Therefore, during 2007 we retained Wardell Armstrong
International, an independent engineering firm to perform a feasibility study,
including an estimation of mineable reserves for the Kempirsai deposit. We anticipate
the results of the feasibility study, including an estimation of mineable reserves
during the second half of the 2008 fiscal year. As we have not yet established reserves
at the Kempirsai deposit, this project should be deemed exploratory in nature. For
additional information regarding reserves please see
“
Reserves
” in this Item
1 “
Business
”.
14
Gornostai
Exploration activities conducted during the Soviet era and by us since
we acquired the rights to the deposit have identified 21 ore bodies through drilling
within the South section of the deposit and two ore bodies in the North section. The
area of the deposit is located within the Gornostai ultramafic belt. The deposit is
characterized by three distinct zones of ochre, nontronite, and leached and
disintegrated serpentinite:
|
•
|
Ochre zone
represents the
upper part of the serpentinite weathered crust.
|
|
•
|
Nontronite zone
is more
widespread than the ochre zone with thickness varying from 2 up to 10 m
(sometimes reaching 30 m)
|
|
•
|
Zone of leached and disintegrated
serpentinite
is the most widespread amongst
the three zones. The zone mean thickness is 15-20 m (in some cases up
to 50 m).
|
The minerals are found mainly in laterite form. The ore bodies have
embedded form, are mainly horizontal in attitude and show variable thickness. The
nickel content in the ore bodies varies from 0.7% to 2.3% and cobalt from 0.05% to
0.37%. The ore bodies are typically located at depths between 0 to 20 meters from the
surface, which should allow for strip mining. The lengths of the ore bodies range from
200 meters to 4,050 meters and widths range from 200 meters to 2,000 meters. Thickness
varies from 0.8 meters to 15 meters. Average ore body thickness is around 4.2 meters,
with an estimated average stripping ratio of 1.8 cubic meters per ton. Of the drilling
done to date, the average content of nickel is 0.85% and cobalt 0.059%.
Based on the exploration activities undertaken on the deposit, we
believe the size of the ore bodies, their simple form and shallow bedding will allow
the deposit to be mined by open pit method with a low stripping ratio.
Despite the exploration work completed during the Soviet time and by us
since acquiring this deposit, we do not have a current ore reserve estimate for the
Gornostai deposit that complies with the standards established by the SEC. Accordingly,
and consistent with SEC Industry Guide 7, we provide no claims as to the ore reserves
that may be contained within the Gornostai deposit. Moreover, because we are currently
in the exploration stage of our contract and have not yet established commercially
producible reserves, the Gornostai project should be deemed exploratory in
nature.
Wardell Armstrong International also evaluated the Gornostai deposit in
connection with a scoping study and preliminary resource estimation. We plan to
undertake a preliminary feasibility study on the Gornostai deposit during 2008 with
completion in 2009, including a reserve estimate that will comply with the standards
established by the SEC. For additional information regarding reserves please see
“
Reserves
” in this Item 1 “Business.”
History and current state of our deposits
Kempirsai
The KKM subsoil use contract to the nickel and cobalt deposits covers a
575,756 acre territory, in northwestern Kazakhstan. This contract was issued by the
MEMR and incorporates License series MG#420 and MG#426. These licenses to the nickel
and cobalt deposits cover a period expiring on October 12, 2011. This contract may be
extended upon agreement between KKM and the MEMR. KKM also holds a subsoil use contract
that incorporates License series MG #9-D for a brown coal deposit located within 40
kilometers of its nickel and cobalt deposit. This contract expires on December 11, 2018
with the possibility of further extensions.
15
In November 2007 KKM submitted to the MEMR the request for the extension
of the subsoil use contract to the nickel and cobalt deposits up to 2018 and
corresponding changes in the working program. Despite this fact, on December 10, 2007,
the MEMR unilaterally terminated KKM’s contracts and licenses to explore for
nickel, cobalt, brown coal and other minerals within the Kempirsai and Mamyt deposits
on the basis that KKM had material failures in the execution of the work programs
associated with the contacts and licenses. The MEMR did not, however, detail those
failures. In January 2008, KKM filed an action in the Court of Astana city against the
MEMR challenging the legality of the unilateral termination of the KKM contracts and
licenses by the MEMR for several reasons, including that the contracts and licenses had
been terminated on grounds not provided for in the subsoil use contracts and
legislation and there were no material failures in the execution of the work programs
associated with the contracts and licenses. In February 2008, the Court of Astana city
acknowledged that the unilateral termination of the contracts and licenses by the MEMR
was inconsistent with the terms of the contracts and licenses. The Court canceled the
order of the MEMR relating to the unilateral termination of the licenses and reinstated
the KKM contracts and licenses. In March 2008, the MEMR appealed the decision of the
Court of Astana city to the Republic of Kazakhstan Supreme Court. We expect the Supreme
Court to announce its final decision on this matter by the end of April
2008.
Historical exploration and production
activities
The first nickel deposits of the Kempirsai group were discovered in the
1930s. 44 deposits in total were discovered and explored since this period. The
Kara-Obinskoye and Novo-Shandashinskoye sections were explored during the late 1970s by
core drilling on a 12.5-25m x 25m grid. The volume of exploration works done on the
deposits were as follows:
Deposit
|
|
Number of Holes
|
|
Meters
|
|
Samples
|
Kara-Obinskoye
|
|
4,498
|
|
79,400
|
|
46,490
|
Novo-Shandashinskoye
|
|
780
|
|
7,770
|
|
6,135
|
The State Reserves Committee approved the Kara-Obinskoye and
Novo-Shandashinskoye reserves for commercial production in the 1980s. These deposits,
along with others in the region, were assigned to YuzhUralNickel during the Soviet era.
YuzhUralNickel is a Russian company with a nickel processing plant in Russia located
approximately 90 kilometers north of the Kempirsai deposits. Approximately 171 million
tons of nickel ore have been mined from these deposits, including 770,000 tons from the
Kara-Obinskoye and Novo-Shandashinskoye sections. During peak production in the late
1980s, almost five million tons of ore were mined annually from the Kempirsai deposits.
Active mining of the Kempirsai deposits was discontinued in 1996.
The Kempirsai deposits remained the property of YuzhUralNickel after the
break up of the Soviet Union until 1996, when a joint venture between YuzhUralNickel
and the Kazakhstan State Property Committee was formed. Because of a lack of Russian
interest in developing this deposit in Kazakhstan, the joint venture was unsuccessful.
In 1999 the rights to the Kara-Obinskoye and Novo-Shandashinskoye nickel deposits and
Mamyt coal deposit were acquired by KKM from the joint venture. Due to a lack of
funding and processing capability, combined with market conditions and the nickel
content of Kempirsai ore, KKM has not engaged in active or significant mining activity
since acquiring the deposits.
16
Historically, the Kempirsai deposit was open-pit mined, with maximum
mining depths of approximately 20 meters. We anticipate that the Kempirsai deposit will
be open-pit mined in the future.
Plant, equipment and infrastructure
KKM owns fuel tanks, locomotives, rail cars, railway cranes, bridge
cranes, railway cisterns, maintenance equipment, excavators, motor graders, passenger
vehicles, passenger buses, heavy dump trucks, hoppers, scales, lathes, forging hammers,
presses, grinding, milling and boring machines, boilers, electrical substations, office
equipment, business machines, portable communication equipment, laboratory equipment
and multiple buildings. The machinery was manufactured between 1950 and the present.
The buildings were built between the 1940’s and the early 1990’s. Our
equipment and infrastructure in its current state has the capacity to mine
approximately 250,000 tons of ore annually. Much of our existing equipment and
buildings will need repair and refurbishing prior to being put into active operation.
We estimate the cost of these repairs to be approximately $1,000,000. Once repaired, we
expect our infrastructure and equipment to have a standing capacity to mine up to
500,000 tons of ore annually. According to a preliminary feasibility study prepared by
Wardell Armstrong International, to meet a production rate of 3,400,000 tons of ore
annually, our mining fleet will need to be enhanced with several new pieces of
equipment, including primary digging machines, ancillary front end loaders and railway
rolling stock in the amount of $14.4 million.
In addition to the rail and road infrastructure discussed above, 220 and
110 kilovolt high voltage power lines run nearby the Kempirsai deposits and the
Buhara-Ural gas pipeline runs approximately 10 km to the east of our nickel deposits,
(see “
Kempirsai Project Location Map
” included in
“
Location and access to our properties
” in this Item
1 “
Business
.”) We can access water from the lakes around
Badamsha. In the future, we also plan to use coal from our Mamyt deposit to supply
power for an ore processing plant.
Costs
Since the date we acquired KMI in October 2005 through December 31,
2007, KKM has expended approximately $17,740,000 at the Kempirsai deposits. We
anticipate future planned costs to be up to $600 million, depending on technology and
capacity of the processing plant we plan to build at the Kempirsai deposit as discussed
herein greater detail in the
“
Processing
” section of
this Item 1
“
Business
.” We plan to
spend approximately $20 million in 2008, depending on ore sells, in the further
development of the Kempirsai deposit and in the “
Plan of
Operations
” section of Item 6.
“
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations
.”
Gornostai
In February 2004, Kaznickel acquired a concession for exploration and
development of the Gornostai nickel and cobalt deposit (contract No. 1349 registered by
the MEMR), covering 12,232 acres in eastern Kazakhstan.
17
Historical exploration activities
We are at the exploration stage on the Gornostai deposit. This deposit
was discovered in 1958. From 1960 to 1968 a series of geological and prospecting
surveys and evaluation work was performed on both sections of the deposit by the
Semipalatinsk Expedition to evaluate available nickel and cobalt ore reserves. The
surveys identified and explored 21 ore bodies on the South section and two ore bodies
on the North section of the deposit. These exploration works tested the deposit to
depths of around 50-75 meters in the South section and up to 150 meters in the North
section.
In the South section, drilling was undertaken on a 200-400 meter x
100-200 meter grid. In total 2,067 shallow depth holes with a total length of about
60,000 m and several deep holes with a total length of 2,857 meters were drilled. 48
pits varying in depth between 4.3 – 24.6 meters (570 meters in total) were
explored around drill hole to check core sample results. In 1965 two pits were explored
for metallurgical samples. Sample weights were 1.3 and 3.6 tons. Samples were tested at
the VNIITzvetmet Institute in Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan. Metallurgical tests were
carried out at pilot-plant scale using four options; ferronickel electro smelting,
matte electro smelting, sulphuric acid, and carbonate – ammonia
leaching.
In the North section, drilling was undertaken primarily on a 1,600 meter
x 400 meter grid. Ore bodies of significant thickness, up to 40 meters, with nickel
content up to 3.64% (average 1.55%) were identified. These deposits were located at
depths between 40-90 meters.
The Gornostai deposit, however, was abandoned as reserves around Norilsk
in Russia were considered more attractive because of larger reserves and higher nickel
content. Moreover, the Norilsk reserves were already at the production stage. In
addition, a Soviet army nuclear test site, similar to the Nevada Test Site, was located
near the Gornostai deposit. The surrounding territory, including the deposit, was
considered a secret military zone. For these reasons, further exploration of the
deposit was discontinued in 1968.
The last nuclear testing in the area was conducted in 1989. Recent tests
show that the radiation levels in the soil, water and air are within normal
ranges.
Exploration activities
Since acquiring Kaznickel, consistent with the terms of the current
three-year work program for the deposit approved by the MEMR in 2005, we have engaged
in exploration activities within the Gornostai licensed territory to determine the
characteristics of this deposit. During 2007 we drilled 619 holes to a total depth of
15,625 meters, and an average depth of 25 meters per hole, and have taken 8,370
geochemical and core samples. 14 exploration pits (173 meters total depth) were made on
the South section and 340 channel samples were collected. During 2006 we drilled 488
holes to a total depth of 12,652 meters, and an average depth of 30 meters per hole,
and have taken 6,755 geochemical and core samples All samples collected in 2006-2007
were assayed by CenterGeoAnalit LLP, a nationally accredited independent laboratory
located in Karaganda, Kazakhstan, to perform spectrum and quantity analysis to identify
the content of nickel, cobalt and iron. During 2005 we drilled 42 holes to a total
depth of 1,065 meters, and an average depth of 30 meters and have taken 595 samples to
the Institute of Nonferrous Metals, located in Ust-Kamenogorsk, Kazakhstan where these
samples represent ordinary core samples for nickel and cobalt content
18
As discussed above, currently the exploration stage of our license runs
through February 2010 due to the second two-year extension of exploration stage. During
the exploration stage we are required to engage in certain activities to determine the
existence of commercially producible mineral reserves. We have planned the following
exploration activities for 2008 and 2009, which we believe will be sufficient to both
satisfy our Annual Work Program requirements and to help us establish commercially
producible reserves within the Gornostai deposit. Once we establish commercially
producible reserves, we plan to move to commercial production at the Gornostai
deposit.
Activity
|
|
Quantity
|
|
Anticipated Timetable
|
|
Estimated Cost
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Core drilling on North
section
including
mobilization/demobilization
|
|
2,000 meters
15 holes
|
|
April 2008 - June 2009
|
|
$250,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Core sampling and sample preparation
|
|
1,000 samples
|
|
April 2008 - July 2009
|
|
$10,800
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assaying and metallurgical tests
|
|
1,000 samples
|
|
January 2008 -
October 2008
|
|
$95,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Interpretation of exploration results and preparation of
the report and reserve estimate for submission to the State Reserves
Committee
|
|
|
|
January 2008 -
December 2008
|
|
$145,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The PFS for getting the reserve estimate that complies
with the standards established by the SEC
|
|
|
|
July 2008 -
July 2009
|
|
$400,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A local drilling company will be contracted for drilling activities.
Core sampling, core logging and results interpretation will be carried out by our own
in-house geologists, who have 10-30 years experience in such activities. Core
preparation will be conducted by the preparation laboratory of SemGeo LLP, a third
party with years of experience in the local market. CenterGeoAnalit LLP will carry out
the assaying. Wardell Armstrong International will be contracted for performance of the
feasibility study.
Core sampling, assaying and quality assurance/quality
control
We have and will continue to conduct core sampling over the full length
of the exploration hole. In general, sample intervals were 1-2 meters, which produced
2-5 kilograms of sample from each interval. Cores are not cut because cutting fractures
the rocks. Samples are undertaken of the whole core.
All sample preparation done to date has been done at the SemGeo LLP
laboratory, which is located approximately 120 kilometers from the Gornostai deposit.
Whole core samples are sent to SemGeo in 2-5 kilogram labeled Hessian bags which are
stacked in racks and dried at approximately 90° C. Samples are then sent to a small
jaw crusher that reduces the whole sample to 4-5 millimeters. The sample is then sent
to a roll crusher where it is reduced to 1-2 millimeters. The equipment is cleaned with
compressed air between samples. Samples are then split by cone and quartering with
opposite quadrants combined before being sent to the disc grinder where the sample is
reduced in size to 74 micrometers. Every fifth sample is checked by sieving to see if
it complies with this grain size. As an additional check, every thirtieth sample is
waste rock to act as a “blank” control.
19
From the sample preparation facility, approximately 60 grams of
pulverized sample was sent to the CenterGeoAnalit LLP laboratory for assay, while the
pulps are kept at the sample preparation facility. Assaying includes the quantitative
determination of the main ore components, including nickel, cobalt and iron.
Composite samples were produced to determine the chemical composition of
slag-forming oxides, detrimental impurities and accompanying components in the ores.
Composites are made up from three to five individual samples from one intersection by
taking material from duplicates of analytical samples proportional to their length. The
maximum weight of a composite sample was 250 grams.
For quality control, each of 30 samples includes approximately 10%
checks comprising of one blank, one duplicate and one standard. As standards, we use
the certified Reference Samples from GEOSTATS PTY LTD (Australia). We have 11 standards
with nickel grade varying from 0.02% to 1.51%. In the event an assay result of the
Reference Sample shows >2 or <2 standard deviations from the accredited value,
the whole batch will be re-assayed.
Submission of report and reserves estimate to the State Reserves
Committee
We will retain a third party to work with our in-house geologists to
prepare the report and reserve estimate for submission to the State Reserves Committee
in connection with our application to move the Gornostai deposit from exploration phase
to commercial production phase. We have not yet selected a party to provide this
service.
Infrastructure
In addition to the road and rail infrastructure discussed above, low
tension power lines follow the railway and run within the Gornostai deposit. A high
tension power line is located approximately 6-7 km to the south of the central part of
the South deposit. We have access to water from Irtysh River. Unlike the Kempirsai
deposit, there are no buildings and only minimal equipment at the Gornostai
deposit.
Costs
From January 2005, when we acquired Kaznickel, to December 31, 2007,
Kaznickel has spent approximately $5,140,000 in exploration activities at the Gornostai
deposit. As with the Kempirsai deposit, we anticipate costs to be as high as
$600,000,000, depending on capacity and technology of the type of processing plant we
build at the Gornostai deposit as discussed herein greater detail in the
“Processing” section of this Item
1 “
Business
.” We
plan to spend approximately $1,500,000 in exploration activities and further
development of the Gornostai deposit during fiscal 2008. For additional details please
see the “
Plan of
Operations
” section of Item 6.
“
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations
”.
Reserves
We do not have a current estimate of the ore reserves contained within
our contract territories. While we have reserve estimates prepared during Soviet times,
we do not know the accuracy of those reserve estimates and do not believe them to be to
the standards established by the SEC. As discussed above, we are working with Wardell
Armstrong International, an independent engineering firm, to provide us with an ore
reserve estimate of our Kempirsai deposit. We anticipate releasing the result of this
report during the 2008 fiscal year. We have also retained Wardell Armstrong
International to
undertake a feasibility study on the Gornostai
deposit during 2008 with completion in 2009.
20
In accordance with SEC Industry Guide 7 mineral deposits qualify as
“reserves” only to the extent some part of the deposit can be economically
and legally extracted or produced at the time of the reserve determination. At the
present time, we do not know whether the ore in our deposits can be economically
extracted or produced. For this purpose, we have retained Wardell Armstrong
International to conduct feasibility studies of our deposits to provide information on
mining, processing, metallurgical, economic and other relevant factors to determine
whether any of our deposits can be economically produced.
Because our deposits are without known reserves, you should consider our
proposed programs to be exploratory in nature.
Processing
The design of the processing technology is highly dependent on the
chemistry of the laterite ore specifically the iron, magnesium and silicon content and
whether the metals are locked in a clay lattice. These factors will control metal
recovery and processing economics in terms of energy consumption and acid consumption
where leaching technologies are to be employed. High iron, low magnesium ores are
traditionally processed by leaching (hydrometallurgical) methods whereas, high
magnesium, low iron ores are traditionally processes by high temperature
(pyrometallurgical) smelting methods.
High iron, low magnesia ores (limonite or nontronite / smectite) are
typical of Australia and dryer climates. The nickel is relatively loosely bonded to
goethite (hydrated iron oxide) and is usually suitable for hydrometallurgical
processing. The nickel can be recovered by pressure acid leaching (“PAL”)
and in some cases by selective reduction followed by ammonia-ammonium carbonate
leaching.
High magnesia, relatively low iron ores (saprolite, serpentinite or
garnierite) are typical of tropical climates such as Indonesia. These ores are
traditionally processed by pyrometallurgical techniques, particularly smelting, as
generally the nickel replaces magnesium in the magnesium-silicate lattice. In order to
recover the nickel, the lattice has to be broken down thereby freeing the nickel. This
is achieved by smelting under reducing conditions, i.e. drying, calcining/reduction and
electric furnace smelting to produce ferronickel or nickel sulphide matte, which are
further processed / refined to recover metal. High pressure acid leaching
(“HPAL”) is also possible but large amounts of MgSO4 and MgCl2 are produced
increasing the cost of regenerating acid; therefore heap leaching is more suitable to
low clay content laterites.
There are three main treatment processes for nickel
laterites:
|
•
|
Conventional smelting (pyrometallurgical);
|
|
•
|
Reduction roast / ammonia leach processing (Caron
Process); and
|
|
•
|
High pressure acid leaching (HPAL).
|
21
Following is a diagram of the key component steps in each of these
treatment processes:
Conventional Smelting
This process is typically used for the
high
nickel and low iron saprolite ores
, and involves furnace
smelting to form an iron-nickel product typically with 20%-40% contained nickel.
Further treatment can increase this to around 78% nickel. The classic pyrometallurgical
process for nickel laterite ores is commonly referred to as the RKEF process (Rotary
Kiln-Electric Furnace). Ore is calcined and pre-reduced in a rotary kiln prior to
smelting to produce FeNi (ferronickel) and slag. The RKEF process is widely used and
there is a relatively good understanding of the process flow scheme. This technique is
very simple and is used at the PT Inco mine in Indonesia, the Falcondo mine in
Dominican Republic and the Cerro Matoso mine in Columbia. In recent years modifications
to the RKEF route have been attempted, replacing the rotary kiln element with flash
calcining and utilizing DC ARC furnace technology for the smelting stage (so-called NST
process). These recent technologies have been studied at bench scale and proposed for
full sized commercial installations, but, they are not widely practiced and regarded as
emerging rather than established technology.
22
Reduction Roast / Ammonia Leach Processing (Caron
Process)
The Caron process is used for ores with
high
iron and high magnesium
content. The ore is roasted and then
cooled in a non-oxidizing environment. The resulting material is leached with an
ammonia solution and further treated to produce a nickel-rich product (75% nickel)
which can then be refined to produce nickel metal and other by products. This process
usually yields lower nickel recoveries than with other types of laterite ore
processing, an example is BHP Billiton’s Yabulu refinery in Queensland,
Australia.
High Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL)
The HPAL process is used where there is
high
iron, limonitic ores with low magnesium and silica
such as
the dry laterites found in Australia. The process involves the dissolution of limonite
ores in acid under high pressures and temperatures. This liberates the nickel and other
metals in solution and allows concentration and processing to produce an intermediate
nickel product which can be further refined. Leaching occurs at 250°C to 270°C,
with high acid consumption. Existing operations include plants at Murrin Murrin, Cawse
(Australia), Moa Bay (Cuba) and Rio Tuba (Philippines). Upcoming projects include Goro
(New Caledonia) and Ravensthorpe (Australia). HPAL technology was expected to change
the shape of the industry cost curve. However, existing equipment has proven inadequate
for the required high temperatures, pressures and acid strengths. This has resulted in
longer than expected ramp-up schedules and significant cost overruns at a number of
proposed HPAL facilities.
In addition, several low-tech processes are currently in development. A
description of each process follows:
Heap Leaching
Heap leaching is a process currently in development that has been
designed to process a range of ore types. The process is low-tech, with modest capital
and operating costs. Ore is leached for between 150 and 700 days. The process uses a
reductant for cobalt extraction. During downstream processing, iron is removed from
goethite, jarosite and hematite, with the precipitate nickel forming as mixed sulphide
or hydroxide. Minara Resources is currently undertaking an R&D project at Murrin
Murrin to allow nickel/cobalt heap leaching, initially to process ore rejects (scats)
to run in parallel with its HPAL operation. The other committed project is European
Nickel’s Caldag deposit in Turkey which is currently under
construction.
Atmospheric Leaching
An alternative lower cost method of processing ore is atmospheric
leaching, where limonite ores are leached with the addition of sulphur dioxide for
cobalt extraction. Atmospheric leaching requires very high acid usage. This process is
in the early stages of development and is not currently used operationally.
23
Hydrochlorination
The KMI acquisition gave us the rights to a proprietary technology for
processing nickel and cobalt ores. While this technology has not previously been used
to process nickel and cobalt ores, it is based on the same principles used to process
titanium and other rare earth metals in Kazakhstan and Russia. The processing technique
utilizes hydrogen chloride to leach out the nickel and cobalt ores with sublimation of
the nickel and cobalt chlorides occurring at 1,050-1,100 (Degrees) Celsius. This
technology utilizes a closed-circle utilization chamber, which results in no emissions
while achieving extraction rates comparable to pyrometallurgy and
hydrometallurgy.
During 2006 we constructed a pilot plant at our Kempirsai deposit to
test our hydrochlorination process. Our pilot processing plant has a processing
capacity of 12.5 tons of ore per day. We performed initial testing and processed an
aggregate of 10 tons of ore through the pilot plant from October 2006 to January 2007.
The test results indicated the following issues that we are trying to
resolve:
|
•
|
the necessary equipment for the pilot plant is difficult
to design, locate and procure;
|
|
•
|
the use of chlorides in the process creates a risk to
personnel and the environment;
|
|
•
|
the difficulties in accomplishing isolation in the
rotating kiln; and
|
|
•
|
winter weather conditions at our Kempirsai deposit,
including up to 13 feet of snow and temperature as low as 31 to 40
degrees below zero Fahrenheit, require appropriate equipment to operate
the pilot plant in harsh weather conditions.
|
The initial tests of the pilot plant used head ore from our Kempirsai
deposit. The average nickel content of our Kempirsai head ore is approximately 1.1
percent per ton. PIT Geoanalitika, an independent Kazakh company, conducted chemical
analysis of several different samples of the pilot plant concentrates and found that
nickel content following the hydrochlorination process increased 10 to 15 percent. We
feel these initial results justify further research and development to optimize the
process at the scale of the pilot plant with a view to employing the technology in
commercial production in the future. Irrespective of our decision regarding the
feasibility of a pyrometallurgical or hydrometallurgical processing plant at the
Kempirsai deposit, we plan to continue testing and development of our hydrochlorination
process in 2008.
Smelting in a Liquid Bath (Pyrometallurgical - Russian Technology
or Vanyukov Process)
In 1949, the Moscow State Institute of Steel and Alloys proposed a
process based on smelting in a liquid bath. This technology has been developed and,
although little used in the West, has for more than 25 years been applied successfully
as a standard metallurgical melting process, especially for the production of copper
from both oxide and sulphide ores in the CIS countries. The first commercial
application of this technology for the processing of nickel oxide ores to produce
ferronickel commenced at Kombinat YuzhUralNickel (Russia) on July 12, 2004. Coal, coke
or even methane can be used as the reducing agent. An advantage of the Vanyukov process
over the more widely known RKEF process is that reduction and melting occurs in a
single unit as opposed to having separate units (rotary kiln and electric furnace),
thereby enabling potential capital cost savings. The ability to use coal, coke and/or
methane as both a fuel and a reductant offers potential operational cost savings
compared to the more traditional routes. Another possible advantage of the Vanyukov
process is the considerably lower electrical power requirement compared to RKEF
technologies. YuzhUralNickel is currently undergoing upgrading and once complete should
demonstrate the commercial applicability of this process flow scheme.
24
Bioleaching
Low grade ores can also be treated through the environmentally safe
hydrometallurgical process of bioleaching, a process currently undergoing successful
trials at Radio Hill nickel mine by Titan Resources (Western Australia). Unlike other
processes that release noxious sulphur gases, all the sulphides are converted into
water-soluble sulphates.
Our
Plans on Processing Technology
We currently have no processing facilities at either the Kempirsai or
Gornostai deposits. We plan to construct processing facilities to process our ores.
Soviet era data and our own activities indicate that the Gornostai and Kempirsai ores
appear to be
high magnesia, low iron
ores. Based on this, the processing technique that has historically been
most commonly used with ore like ours is pyrometallurgical processing. Heap leaching
may also be possible.
We are working with Wardell Armstrong International, an independent
engineering firm, to provide us with a feasibility study and an ore reserve estimate of
our Kempirsai deposit. We anticipate releasing the result of this report during the
2008 fiscal year.
The feasibility study addresses relevant factors such as location,
geology and mineralization, resources, mining, processing (which includes a review of
available technologies), environmental issues and financial appraisal. The feasibility
study considers the following production options:
|
•
|
construction of a Rotary-Kiln-Electro-Furnace processing
plant and integrated power station;
|
|
•
|
construction of a processing plant utilizing the
Vanyukov process (Russian technology); and
|
|
•
|
construction of a heap or tank acid leaching processing
plant.
|
Currently, Wardell Armstrong International is conducting
hydrometallurgical pilot test on a sample of the Kempirsai ore to determine whether
nickel can be recovered using acid leach technologies. Also, we are waiting for pilot
test results from a Russian institute and Wardell Armstrong International on the
Vanyukov process. Once we receive the results of these tests we will be in the position
to finalize our decision on the technology to be used for processing of the Kempirsai
ore and develop a detailed plan for construction of a processing plant.
Tax
and Royalty Scheme in the Republic of Kazakhstan
We are subject to the following taxes and royalties payable to the
Republic of Kazakhstan:
Class of Tax or Royalty
|
Basis of Tax
|
Payable Period
|
Annual Rate
|
Corporate Income Tax
|
Profits
|
Monthly
|
30%
|
Social Tax
|
Payroll
|
Monthly
|
21-26%
|
VAT
|
Value added
|
Monthly
|
14-20%
|
Property Tax
|
Property
|
Quarterly
|
1%
|
Royalty (ore)
|
Output volume
|
Monthly/Quarterly
|
2.21%
|
Royalty (brown coal)
|
Output volume
|
Monthly/Quarterly
|
0.9%
|
Excess Profit Tax
|
Net income
|
Annually
|
4-60%
|
25
Competition
Total nickel production worldwide was approximately 1,660,000 tons in
2007, according to USGS. Norilsk Nickel is the largest nickel producer followed by
CVRD, BHP Billiton Plc, Eramet Group and Xtrata. These five companies account for
approximately 59% of the world’s primary nickel production, while more than 30
medium to small size companies produce the remaining 41%.
Until recently, there were no nickel-producing companies in Kazakhstan.
In February 2004, Oriel Resources, a London-based company, acquired 90% of Muzbel LLC,
which holds exploration and extraction rights for the Shevchenko nickel deposit in
northern Kazakhstan. Formed in July 2003, Oriel’s primary focus is the
acquisition and development of advanced and high-quality chrome, nickel and other
alloying commodities in the countries of the Former Soviet Union, primarily Kazakhstan
and the Russian Federation. Oriel Resources owns Tikhvin chrome smelter near St
Petersburg and has two deposits in Kazakhstan, including the Voskhod chrome and the
Shevchenko nickel projects. The Shevchenko nickel project feasibility study showed that
proven and probable nickel laterite ore reserves were 104.4 million tons of 0.79%
nickel. In October 2006, Oriel Resources was acquired by IPH Polychrom Holding BV and
Croweley International Limited. In March 2008, Mechel issued a statement, confirming
its interest in acquisition of Oriel Resources. Mechel is the leading Russian coking
coal and long steel producer, however recently its interest has expanded into utilities
and ferroalloy manufacturing. Being the second-largest nickel producer in Russia after
Norilsk Nickel and a significant ferrosilicon producer, Mechel is likely to derive some
synergies from Oriel Resources assets.
Companies compete with each other generally across the globe and are
best categorized by their size, reserve base, ore richness and production method, due
to different extracting technologies applied, and the final product. Competition in
this industry focuses largely on price and nickel content, whether it is sold in
unwrought or chemical form. High nickel content material is sold at higher prices and
is most sought after among customers. We do not anticipate direct competition from
Oriel Resources should they pursue the plan to build a nickel processing plant. Nickel
and cobalt are part of a global market and a worldwide demand, in which the supply is
limited and the number of industries that use nickel and cobalt is increasing, thus
ensuring a constant demand for additional production of nickel and cobalt.
We believe that the proximity of our Gornostai deposit to China and
other Asian countries will provide us a competitive advantage. We have already been
approached by Chinese metal companies interested in purchasing finished product once we
reach production stage. As of this date we have not entered into definitive
negotiations with any party.
Other Properties
Bekem leases approximately 400 square feet of office space located at
324 South 400 West, Suite 225, Salt Lake City, Utah 84101 for its administrative and
registered office in the United States. We pay annual rents of approximately $7,800 for
this space pursuant to a lease agreement that expires December 31, 2008 with an option
to extend the lease for an additional year.
We also maintain a representative office in Almaty, Kazakhstan, where we
lease 1,880 square feet of office space. The lease agreement expires on November 30,
2008. The monthly lease payment is $7,000. Upon consent of both parties, the agreement
may be prolonged further.
26
Kaznickel LLP rents approximately 2,200 square feet office in Semey,
Kazakhstan, for approximately $4,000 per month. Semey is the closest city to the
Gornostai deposit. Kaznickel also rents approximately 5,300 square feet of warehouse
space in Semey for $4,250 per month. Kaznickel uses this space to store test ore. These
lease agreements expire in March 31, 2008. If at any time the owner of this space
decides they need or want the space for other purposes, Kaznickel has no right to
continue to occupy the space and could be forced to move.
KKM rents approximately 2,120 square feet of office space in Aktobe,
Kazakhstan. KKM pays approximately US $5,500 per month for this space under a one-year
lease agreement. This space is leased on a year-to-year basis. If at any time the owner
of this space decides they need or want the space for other purposes, KKM has no right
to continue to occupy the space and could be forced to move.
We believe each of the various office spaces rented by us and our
subsidiaries are suitable and adequate for our needs.
Employees
We currently have approximately 259 full-time employees. We hire our
employees under local labor contracts complying with the governing laws of the Republic
of Kazakhstan. We believe we have satisfactory relations with our employees. We
anticipate the need to hire additional personnel as operations expand. To date, neither
our operations nor the operations of any of our subsidiaries have been interrupted by
strikes or work stoppages. We have managed to maintain turnover of our work force at a
low level. With the ongoing labor market monitoring, we believe that future new labor
requirements can be satisfied and there is no significant risk of labor
shortage.
Reports to Security Holders
We file annual and quarterly reports with the SEC. The public may read
and copy any materials filed by the Company with the SEC at the SEC’s Public
Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain
information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at (202)
551-8090. We are an electronic filer and the SEC maintains an Internet site that
contains reports and other information regarding the Company that may be viewed at
http://www.sec.gov.
Need for Additional Capital.
We have
no proven mineral reserves that conform to U.S. standards. The Gornostai and Kempirsai
deposits have not yet entered the development stage with respect to our mineral
interests and we have no production. We have realized only limited revenue from our
Kempirsai deposit and no revenue from Gornostai and have very little ability to
generate revenue. We do not expect this to change until we build and begin operating a
nickel ore processing plant.
27
Management expects that the Company will need $50 million to $300
million to fund construction of a processing plant depending upon which technology and
the size of the plant is deemed appropriate for processing our ores. We plan to begin
construction in 2008 and, assuming funding is available, expect a processing plant to
be operational in 2011. As we generate no revenue, we will need to raise additional
capital through the sale of our equity and/or debt securities to fund plant
construction.
While certain shareholders of the Company have indicated a willingness
to provide us line of credit to assist us in meeting our 2008 annual work program
expenses, we will likely need additional funds. Currently, we do not have any formal
agreement with said shareholders to provide this line of credit and the shareholders
are under no obligation to enter into any agreement or make available to us any
funds.
We expect to be totally dependent upon investment funds to support our
operations and satisfy our mineral license annual work program until such time as we
begin to generate sufficient revenue to fund operations. We expect these funds will
consist primarily of funds raised in equity and/or debt financing activities. We
currently have no firm commitment from any party to provide us additional equity or
debt financing and there is no guarantee that we will obtain additional financing on
acceptable terms, or at all. If we are unsuccessful in obtaining additional funding
during 2008, we will likely have insufficient funds to continue operations or to meet
our annual work program requirements. If we cannot fulfill our annual work program
requirement, we could be subjected to fines and penalties and even to the possible
forfeiture of our subsoil use contracts and licenses.
Failure to Satisfy the Terms of Our Subsoil Use
Contracts
. Under our subsoil use contracts, we are
required to satisfy our annual minimum work program requirements. There is no guarantee
that we will be able to continue to meet these commitments in the future. If we fail to
satisfy these commitments we may be subject to penalties and fines and/or the loss of
one or more of our subsoil use contracts. The cancellation of our contracts would have
a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial
condition. Although we would seek waivers of any breaches or seek to renegotiate the
terms of our commitments in the event we do not believe we can meet such commitments,
we cannot assure you that we would be successful in doing so.
For many years it was the practice of the MEMR that if a subsurface user
for any reason could not fulfill certain conditions for a specific year, then such
actions were extended to the next year. During the latter part of 2007, however, this
practice was terminated by order of the president of Kazakhstan. This change in
practice has created great uncertainty as to how the government will proceed in the
future. This problem is enhanced by the fact that there exists no legislatively fixed
mechanism for independent determination at a detail level, of the compliance by
subsurface users with the parameters of their annual work program. Currently, this
determination is made at the discretion of officials employed by authorized
governmental body. These officials are authorized to suspend the activities of the
subsurface user even for a minor breach of the detailed annual program. This fact
coupled with the right of the competent body to unilaterally terminate a subsoil users
contract if the contractor materially breaches the subsoil use contract obligations,
indicates there is a risk that penalties and fines and/or the loss of one or more of
our subsoil use contracts.
28
Foreign Operations
. In recent years,
the Republic of Kazakhstan has undergone substantial political and economic change. As
an emerging market, Kazakhstan does not possess the well-developed business
infrastructure that generally exists in more mature free market economies. As a result,
operations carried out in Kazakhstan can involve significant risks that are not
typically associated with developed markets. Instability in the market reform process
could subject us to unpredictable changes in the basic business infrastructure in which
we currently operate. Therefore, we face risks inherent in conducting business
internationally, such as:
|
•
|
Foreign currency exchange fluctuations or imposition of
currency exchange controls;
|
|
•
|
Legal and governmental regulatory
requirements;
|
|
•
|
Disruption of tenders resulting from disputes with
governmental authorities;
|
|
•
|
Potential seizure or nationalization of
assets;
|
|
•
|
Import-export quotas or other trade barriers;
|
|
•
|
Difficulties in collecting accounts receivable and
longer collection periods;
|
|
•
|
Political and economic instability;
|
|
•
|
Difficulties and costs of staffing and managing
international operations; and
|
|
•
|
Language and cultural differences.
|
Any of these factors could materially adversely affect our business and
financial condition. At this time, we are unable to estimate what, if any, changes may
occur or the resulting effect of any such changes on us.
We also face a significant potential risk of unfavorable tax treatment
and currency law violations. Legislation and regulations regarding taxation, foreign
currency transactions and licensing of foreign currency loans in the Republic of
Kazakhstan continue to evolve as the central government manages the transformation from
a command to a market-oriented economy. The legislation and regulations are not always
clearly written and their interpretation is subject to the opinions of local tax
inspectors. Instances of inconsistent opinions between local, regional and national tax
authorities are not unusual.
The current regime of penalties and interest related to reported and
discovered violations of Kazakhstan’s laws, decrees and related regulations can
be severe. Penalties include confiscation of the amounts at issue for currency law
violations, as well as fines of generally 100% of the taxes unpaid. Interest is
assessable at rates of generally 0.3% per day. As a result, penalties and interest can
result in amounts that are multiples of any unreported taxes.
We may be adversely affected by Kazakh political developments, including
the application of existing and future legislation and tax regulations.
Environmental Regulations
. We are
subject to stringent state and local laws and regulations relating to the release
or disposal of materials into the environment or otherwise relating to environmental
protection. These laws and regulations may require the acquisition of permits before
extraction activities commence, restrict the types, quantities and concentration of
substances that can be released into the environment in connection with extraction and
production activities and impose substantial liabilities for pollution resulting from
our operations. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may result in the
assessment of administrative, civil and criminal penalties, incurrence of investigatory
or remedial obligations or the imposition of injunctive relief. Changes in
environmental laws and regulations occur frequently, and any changes that result in
more stringent or costly waste handling, storage, transport, disposal or cleanup
requirements could require us to make significant expenditures to maintain compliance,
and may otherwise have a material adverse effect on us as well as the industry in
general. Under these environmental laws and regulations, we could be held strictly
liable for the removal or remediation of previously released materials or property
contamination regardless of whether we were responsible.
29
Liquidity of Common Shares.
Our
common stock has limited trading volume on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board and is
not listed on a national exchange. Moreover, a significant percentage of the
outstanding common stock is “restricted” and therefore subject to the
resale restrictions set forth in Rule 144 of the rules and regulations promulgated by
the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933. These
factors could adversely affect the liquidity, trading volume, price and transferability
of our common shares.
Nickel and Cobalt Prices can be Volatile.
Commodity prices for nickel and cobalt fluctuate according to the
influence of diverse market conditions that can affect the supply or demand for a
commodity such as political and economic conditions and uncertainties; advances in
exploration and development technology; introduction of competing products; and
governmental restrictions on exploration, production and export of natural
resources.
Competition
.
Our principal competitors are large established companies with
substantial financial resources and market share. If we establish commercially
producible reserves and move to production stage, we will have to compete for customers
with these companies.
Item 1B.
|
Unresolved Staff Comments
|
The information set forth above in
Item
1. Business
is incorporated by reference
herein.
Item 3.
|
Legal Proceedings
|
As discussed above, on December 10, 2007, the MEMR unilaterally
terminated KKM’s contracts and licenses to explore for nickel, cobalt, brown
coal, and other minerals within the Kempirsai and the Mamyt deposits on the basis that
KKM had material failures in execution of the work programs associated with the
contacts and licenses but did not detail those failures. In January 2008, KKM filed an
action in the Court of Astana city against the MEMR challenging the legality of the
unilateral termination of the KKM contracts and licenses by the MEMR for several
reasons, including that the contracts and licenses had been terminated on grounds not
provided for in the subsoil use contracts and legislation and there were no material
failures in the execution of the work programs associated with the contracts and
licenses. In February 2008, the Court of Astana city acknowledged that the unilateral
termination of the contracts and licenses by the MEMR was illegitimate. The Court
canceled the order of the MEMR relating to the unilateral termination of the licenses
and reinstated the KKM contracts and licenses. In March 2008, the MEMR appealed the
Court’s decision to the Republic of Kazakhstan Supreme Court. We anticipate the
Supreme Court will announce its final decision on this matter by the end of April
2008.
We are not aware of any other material pending or threatened litigation
or governmental agency proceeding to which Bekem or any of our directors, officers or
affiliates are, or would be, a party.
30
Item 4.
|
Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security
Holders
|
No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the
quarter ended December 31, 2007.
PART II
Item 5.
|
Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related
Stockholder Matters and
|
|
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
|
Our shares are currently traded on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board
("OTCBB") under the symbol BKMM. As of April 7, 2008 we had approximately 158
shareholders holding 125,172,011 common shares. Of the issued and outstanding common
stock, approximately 13,358,592 are free trading, the balance are “restricted
securities” as that term is defined in Rule 144 promulgated by the Securities and
Exchange Commission.
Published bid and ask quotations from January 1, 2006 through December
31, 2007 are included in the chart below. These quotations represent prices between
dealers and do not include retail markup, markdown or commissions. In addition, these
quotations do not represent actual transactions.
|
Bid
|
Ask
|
2007
|
High
|
Low
|
High
|
Low
|
Oct. 1 thru Dec. 31
|
$1.90
|
$0.41
|
$2.00
|
$0.65
|
July 2 thru Sept. 28
|
1.90
|
1.25
|
2.00
|
1.35
|
Apr. 2 thru June 29
|
1.60
|
1.37
|
1.72
|
1.70
|
Jan. 3 thru Mar. 30
|
1.90
|
1.40
|
2.00
|
1.72
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006
|
High
|
Low
|
High
|
Low
|
Oct. 2 thru Dec. 29
|
1.80
|
1.75
|
2.00
|
1.85
|
July 3 thru Sept. 29
|
2.00
|
1.60
|
2.25
|
1.70
|
Apr. 3 thru June 30
|
1.95
|
1.05
|
2.20
|
1.50
|
Jan. 3 thru Mar. 31
|
2.00
|
1.25
|
10.01
|
1.35
|
The above information was obtained from Pink Sheets LLC, 304 Hudson
Street, 2nd Floor, New York, New York 10013.
Dividends
We have not paid, nor declared, any dividends since our inception and do
not intend to declare any such dividends in the foreseeable future. Our ability to pay
dividends is subject to limitations imposed by Utah law. Under Utah law, dividends may
be paid to the extent that the corporation's assets exceed its liabilities and the
corporation is able to pay its debts as they become due in the usual course of
business.
31
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation
Plans
Plan category
|
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of
outstanding options, warrants and rights
|
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding
options, warrants and rights
|
Number of securities remaining available for future
issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities
reflected in column (a))
|
|
(a)
|
(b)
|
(c)
|
Equity compensation plans approved by security
holders
|
-0-
|
$-0-
|
1,916,877
|
Equity compensation
plans not approved by security holders
|
-0-
|
$-0-
|
-0-
|
Total
|
-0-
|
$-0-
|
1,916,877
|
In March 2003, we adopted the EMPS Research Corporation 2003 Stock
Option Plan (the "Plan") reserving 5,000,000 common shares for distribution under the
Plan. The purpose of the Plan is to allow us to offer key employees, officers,
directors, consultants and sales representatives an opportunity to acquire a
proprietary interest in the Company. The various types of incentive awards which may be
provided under the Stock Option Plan enable us to respond to changes in compensation
practices, tax laws, accounting regulations and the size and diversity of our
business.
On October 20, 2006 and March 25, 2008 the board agreed to award
restricted stock grants to the following four officers or employees of the
Company;
Name
|
|
Position with the Company
|
|
Number of Shares
|
Yermek Kudabayev
|
|
Chief Executive Officer, President, Director
|
|
421,772
|
Zhassulan Bitenov
|
|
Chief Financial Officer
|
|
383,429
|
Nurlan Tajibayev
|
|
Vice President, Director
|
|
191,715
|
Alexander Rassokhin
|
|
Exploration Manager
|
|
86,207
|
The stock grants were valued at $1.95 per share, which represented the
closing market price of our stock on October 20, 2006. The stock grants were made under
our 2003 Stock Option Plan. The shares have been issued and are outstanding and are
being held in escrow by the Company subject to the applicable vesting schedule for each
grant. The grantees have the right to vote the shares, receive dividends and enjoy all
other rights of ownership over the entire grant amount from the grant date, except for
the right to dispose of or otherwise encumber the shares prior to satisfying the
applicable vesting schedule. Shares will only vest to the grantee if the grantee is
employed by the Company on the applicable vesting date. Any unvested shares at the time
a grantee’s employment with the Company ceases, for any reason, shall be
forfeited back to the Company.
Mr. Kudabayev’s shares vest as follows: 95,857 shares vested in
April 2007, 115,029 shares vested in April 2008, and the final 210,886 shares will vest
in April 2009 provided that the Company timely files its reports with Securities and
Exchange Commission.
Mr. Bitenov’s shares vest as follows: one-fourth (95,857 shares)
in January 2009 and one-fourth (95,857 shares) in January 2010, provided that the
Company has timely filed its reports with Securities and Exchange Commission. The final
one-half (191,715 shares) will vest in January 2011. Vesting during each year is
contingent upon the Company timely filing of its reports with the Securities and
Exchange Commission each year. Moreover, vesting in the third year is also contingent
upon the Company having commenced commercial operations.
32
Mr. Tajibayev’s shares vest as follows: one-fourth (47,929 shares)
vested on October 20, 2007, and one-fourth (47,929 shares) will vest on October 20,
2008, provided that the Company starts construction of the processing plant by October
20, 2008. The final one-half (95,857 shares) will vest on October 20, 2009 conditioned
upon the Company having commenced commercial
operations.
Mr. Rassokhin’s shares vest as follows: one-fourth (21,552 shares)
vested on October 20, 2007 and one-fourth (21,552 shares) will vest on October 20,
2008, provided that in each year the Company timely performs the drilling work program
requirements as dictated by the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy and
Mineral Resources. The final one-half (43,103 shares) will vest on October 20, 2009,
conditioned upon the Company timely performing the drilling work program requirements,
as dictated by the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy and Mineral
Resources during the third year and the Company having commenced commercial
operations.
We have issued no other securities under the Plan.
In connection with a private placement we concluded on July 14, 2006, we
issued to Aton Securities, the placement agent for the private placement, warrants to
purchase up to 2,400,000 shares of our restricted common stock. The exercise price of
the warrants is $1.17 per share. The warrants were immediately exercisable. These
warrants expired unexercised on January 14, 2008.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities
We issued no securities during the quarter ended December 31, 2007.
Subsequent to the quarter end, on March 25, 2008 the board agreed to increase the
restricted stock grant to Yermek Kudabayev, our Chief Executive Officer, by an
additional 38,343. On March 25, 2008 the board also made a restricted stock grant to
Zhassulan Bitenov, our Chief Financial Officer, of 383,429 shares. For details
regarding the terms and conditions of those restricted stock grants please see
“
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity
Compensation Plans
” immediately preceding this section.
Each of these individuals is a non US person resident in Kazakhstan. The restricted
stock grants were made pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of
the Securities Act of 1933, provided under Regulation S of the Securities Act of
1933.
Repurchases of Equity Securities
We did not repurchase any of our equity securities during the year ended
December 31, 2007.
Transfer Agent
Our transfer agent and registrar is Interwest Transfer Company, Inc.,
1981 East 4800 South, Suite 100, Salt Lake City, Utah 84117, Telephone (801)
272-9294.
33
Item 6.
|
Selected Financial Data
|
The selected consolidated financial information set forth below is
derived from our consolidated balance sheets and statements of operations as of and for
the years ended December 31, 2007, 2006 and 2005 and for the period from March 5, 2004
(the date of Inception) until December 31, 2004. The data set forth below should be
read in conjunction with Item 6. “
Management’s Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
” and the consolidated
financial statements and related notes thereto included in this Annual
Report.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
Data:
|
|
|
For the Period from
|
|
For the Period from
|
|
|
|
|
March 5, 2004
|
|
March 5, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
(Date of Inception)
|
|
(Date of Inception)
|
|
For the Years Ended December 31,
|
through
|
|
through
|
|
2007
|
2006
|
2005
|
December 31, 2004
|
|
December 31, 2007
|
General and administrative expenses
|
$ 4,268,793
|
$ 3,136,715
|
$ 1,018,148
|
$ 99,509
|
|
$ 8,523,165
|
Research and development costs
|
296,070
|
389,507
|
131,562
|
271,099
|
|
1,088,238
|
Exploratory costs at Gornostai deposit
|
1,584,428
|
1,118,115
|
697,496
|
-
|
|
3,400,039
|
Exploratory costs at Kempirsai deposit
|
2,601,807
|
352,132
|
-
|
-
|
|
2,954,670
|
Loss from operations
|
(9,259,321)
|
(5,220,917)
|
(1,907,838)
|
(370,608)
|
|
(16,758,684)
|
Interest expense
|
(1,018)
|
(1,382,972)
|
(293,451)
|
-
|
|
(1,677,441)
|
Interest income
|
324,976
|
85,337
|
-
|
-
|
|
410,313
|
Net loss
|
(8,701,550)
|
(4,706,122)
|
(1,271,137)
|
(245,090)
|
|
(14,923,899)
|
Basic loss per common share
|
(0.07)
|
(0.04)
|
(0.03)
|
(0.05)
|
|
|
Balance Sheet Data:
|
|
As of December 31,
|
|
|
2007
|
2006
|
2005
|
2004
|
Total current assets
|
|
$ 1,919,931
|
$ 9,855,647
|
$ 452,406
|
$ 25,527
|
Property, plant and mineral interests, net
|
|
14,226,359
|
13,870,563
|
10,938,368
|
777,051
|
Total assets
|
|
16,450,637
|
25,097,927
|
11,430,015
|
817,695
|
Notes payable
|
|
-
|
-
|
8,532,420
|
-
|
Total liabilities
|
|
1,958,446
|
2,200,048
|
12,347,567
|
880,111
|
Total shareholders' equity (deficit)
|
|
14,492,191
|
22,897,879
|
(917,552)
|
(62,416)
|
The increase in our general and administrative expenses in fiscal 2006
and 2007 is mainly related to the acquisition of the Kempirsai deposit on October 24,
2005. This increase in general and administrative expenses is attributable to the
significant increase in employees and employee-related costs as a result of the
acquisition of KKM, as well as, costs associated with having licensed territories in
both northeastern and northwestern Kazakhstan, increased office rents and consulting
and travel expenses.
Exploratory costs at the Gornostai deposit commenced after the
acquisition of Condesa Pacific, S.A. and its wholly owned subsidiary Kaznickel, LLP in
January 2005. The increase in the exploratory costs occurred due to increased
exploratory and drilling works at the Gornostai deposit in accordance with the subsoil
use contract associated with that deposit.
Exploratory costs at the Kempirsai deposit mainly represent Kempirsai
asset maintenance expenses and cost of extraction of ore. These costs are treated as
exploratory costs because the Company is deemed to be an exploration stage company.
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2007 we extracted 137,724 tons of ore,
which cost $858,105, while no ore was extracted during 2006. Also, during 2007 we
recognized $1,043,720 of impairment loss as a result of revisions to the recoverability
of our long-lived assets.
34
Since we have been conducting exploratory activities and have not been
generating revenues, our capital resources have consisted primarily of funds we have
borrowed from related and non-related parties and the sale of our equity securities.
Interest expenses as well as interest earned are directly dependent on the availability
of borrowed resources and assets attracted from sale of equity securities. Losses from
operations and net losses have been increasing due to increased exploratory works at
the Gornostai deposit and maintenance and repair works of Kempirsai assets. We do not
expect further increases in losses from operations.
Total assets and liabilities increased in 2005 with the acquisition of
Kempirsai assets and issuance of notes payable to related parties. The notes payable
were fully paid in 2006.
Item 7.
|
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition
|
|
and Results of Operations
|
For a complete understanding, this
Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
should be read in
conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to the Consolidated
Financial Statements contained in this Form 10-K.
Since inception we have generated no revenue. We have spent millions of
dollars to date and anticipate that we will spend significant additional capital before
we begin to realize revenue from operations. As discussed above in Item
1 “
Business
” we
have no proven mineral reserves that conform to U.S. standards. The Gornostai and
Kempirsai deposits have not yet entered the development stage and we have no
production. We have realized only limited revenue from our Kempirsai deposit and no
revenue from Gornostai and have very little ability to generate revenue. We do not
expect this to change until we build and begin operating a nickel ore processing plant.
We are currently investigating the financial viability of various processing
technologies for the construction of a processing plant to produce ferronickel at our
Kempirsai deposit to allow us to begin realizing revenues. We expect we will need
significant additional capital to fund construction of a processing plant in 2008-2011.
If we are able to obtain the necessary funding to finance construction of the
processing plant, we would not expect the plant to be operational prior to 2011.
Because we do not currently generate cash flow and we do not anticipate generating
significant cash flow until 2011 or later, if at all, we will be completely dependent
on external funding, if any, to support our activities until such time as we are able
to generate sufficient revenues to cover our expenses.
In July 2006 we raised $28,000,000 through a private placement of our
equity securities which resulted in net proceeds to us of approximately $26,400,000
after deducting fees and costs. This represents only a small portion of the funds we
will need to reach commercial production. Of the $26,400,000, as of December 31, 2007,
we had spent approximately $25,700,000. Approximately $12,200,000 was used to repay
loans, $4,200,000 was used on capital expenditures as a part of our annual work program
obligations, approximately $2,300,000 was spent researching and developing our
hydrochlorination technology and $7,000,000 was used as working capital. At December
31, 2007, we had cash on hand of $756,943.
We incurred net losses of $8,701,550 and $4,706,122 for the years ended
December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively and $14,923,899 for the period from March 5,
2004 (date of inception) through December 31, 2007. Current assets exceeded current
liabilities by $1,000,533 and by $9,040,599 at December 31, 2007 and 2006,
respectively. We anticipate the need to seek significant additional funding during
fiscal 2008 to satisfy our annual work program obligations for this year. While certain
shareholders have indicated an interest in extend to us a credit line to satisfy at
least part of that obligation, we do not, at this time, have any signed agreement with
said shareholders. There is no assurance that we will be able to obtain this credit
line or additional funding on favorable terms, or at all. If we are unsuccessful in
obtaining additional funding during 2008, we will likely have insufficient funds to
continue operations or to meet our annual work program requirements. If we cannot
fulfill our annual work program requirement, we could be subjected to fines and
penalties and even to the possible forfeiture of our subsoil use contracts and
licenses.
35
Results of Operations
As you read this Results of Operations section it is important to keep
in mind that we acquired KMI and its operating subsidiary KKM on October 24, 2005.
While KKM has not engaged in significant activity in recent years, it has engaged in
significantly greater activity than Bekem or Kaznickel in years past. Prior to the
acquisition of KMI, we were engaged in exploration of our Gornostai deposit.
General and Administrative Expenses
Our general and administrative expenses increased from $3,136,715 during
2006 to $4,268,793 during 2007. This 36% increase in general and administrative
expenses is mainly attributable to an $840,000 increase in salary expense and related
taxes as a result of an increase in the number of personnel we employ and salary
increases for existing employees, as our subsidiary KKM hired a number of personnel to
carry out development and testing of the pilot plant and additional geologists,
metallurgists and ecology supervisors. We also hired additional in-house accounting,
finance, legal and information technology personnel. We do not expect to hire a
significant number of additional employees until such time as revenue or funding so
justifies. Another contributing factor to the increase in general and administrative
expenses was a $447,000 increase in professional fees, primarily attributable to
increased legal and accounting fees and costs associated with a resource estimation
prepared by a third party consulting firm.
Research and Development Costs
During 2007 we incurred research and development cost of $390,370. Of
this amount $296,070 was related to preparation of the feasibility study on the
Kempirsai deposits and $94,300 is related the development of our pilot processing
plant. The cost of development of the pilot processing plant was capitalized as it
represents tangible assets with alternative future use. During 2006 we realized
research and development costs of $2,389,507 related to the pilot processing plant,
$2,000,000 of which was capitalized and added to the cost of the pilot plant and
$389,507 was expensed. We expect our research and development costs during the upcoming
fiscal year will be higher than in 2007 as we continue research on processing
technologies.
Exploratory Costs
Our exploratory costs increased from $1,470,247 during the twelve months
ended December 31, 2006 to $4,186,235 incurred during the twelve months ended December
31, 2007. The increase occurred due to increased exploratory and drilling works at our
Gornostai deposit and an increase in volumes of extracted ore and brown coal at our
Kempirsai and Mamyt deposits. Because the Company is currently an exploration stage
entity, extraction costs were expensed. During the twelve months of 2007 we completed
drilling of 619 test holes (611 test holes in the South section and 8 test holes in the
North section of the Gornostai deposit) to an aggregate depth of 15,625 meters (14,965
meters in the South section and 660 meters in the North section). By comparison, during
the twelve months ended December 31, 2006, we drilled 488 holes in the South section
(no holes in the North section of the Gornostai deposit) to an aggregate depth of
12,652 meters. During 2007 and 2006 the cost of exploratory drilling works at the
Gornostai deposit amounted to $1,584,428 and $1,118,115, respectively.
36
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2007 we extracted 137,724
tons of ore. By comparison, during the twelve months ended December 31, 2006, we
extracted no ore. The ore extraction costs of $858,105 were included into exploratory
costs since the Company is in the exploration stage.
Also, during 2007 the Company recognized $1,043,720 of impairment loss
as a result of a revision of recoverability of its long-lived assets. The balance of
exploratory cost of $726,736 and $352,132 for 2007 and 2006, respectively, represent
the cost of maintenance and repair works of Kempirsai assets.
Accretion Expense
We realized accretion expense of $79,288 during the twelve months ended
December 31, 2007. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2006 we realized
accretion expenses of $72,865. This increase in accretion expense is due to the normal
increase in the asset retirement obligation balance over time. We believe accretion
expense during upcoming fiscal year will continue to increase at a rate consistent with
the rate experienced during the 2007 fiscal year.
Grant Compensation Expense
During the year ended December 31, 2007 we incurred $428,935 in grant
compensation expense for restricted stock grants issued to certain officers and key
employees. During 2006 the grant compensation expense amounted to $151,583. The
increase occurred because, as noted above, the grants were not made until the fourth
quarter 2006. The increase is less than initially expected due to the resignation of
Marat Cherdabayev who served as our Chief Executive Officer and President from May 2005
to June 2007 and whose shares did not vest because he resigned his positions with the
Company prior to the vesting dates of his grant.
Total Operating Expenses and Loss from
Operations
As a result of reasons described above, our total expenses and loss from
operations increased by 77%, from $5,220,917 during fiscal 2006 to $9,259,321 during
fiscal 2007. We expect our total expenses in 2008 will continue to increase but at a
lower rate than experienced during the 2007 fiscal year. Also, we expect we will
continue to generate losses until such time as we engage in significant revenue
generating activities, which most likely will not occur before 2011.
Interest Income
During the twelve months ended December 31, 2007, we realized interest
on deposits of $324,976. By comparison during the twelve months ended December 31, 2006
we earned $85,337 of interest on deposits. Interest on deposits increased in 2007
because the deposit accounts in which our funds are held provide for higher rates of
return, varying from 3% to 8%, the longer the funds are left on deposit, with
determination of the interest rate and recognition of the interest earned at the time
the funds are withdrawn or upon the maturity date of the deposit. All deposits matured
by the end of 2007 which resulted in the realization of higher rates of return as
compared to the fiscal 2006.
37
Interest Expense
During 2007 we realized interest expense of $1,018 compared to
$1,382,972 during 2006. The reduction in interest expenses occurred due to retirement
of our outstanding notes payable and related party notes during 2006. During 2006
interest expense resulted from retiring notes payable prior to their due dates and the
full recognition of the debt discount of $885,970 on notes attracted at the below
market rates. As we experience shortages of funds to finance future activities, we
expect that interest expenses will increase if our activities are financed by
borrowings.
Translation Adjustment
The consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars. The
functional currency of our subsidiary Kaznickel is U.S. dollars. The functional
currency of our subsidiary KKM is Kazakh tenge. Results of operations are translated
into U.S. dollars at the average exchange rates during the reporting period. All
balance sheet accounts of KKM are translated at exchange rates on the date of the
financial statements and translation differences are included in stockholders’
equity as cumulative translation adjustments. The translation adjustment balance
recorded in the consolidated statement of shareholders’ equity (deficit) also
includes foreign exchange differences arising from intercompany transactions that are
of long-term-investment nature (long-term intercompany loans) in accordance with the
requirements of FAS 52.
Non-monetary assets and liabilities of Kaznickel are translated into
U.S. dollars, using historical or average exchange rates and monetary assets and
liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates on the date of the
financial statements where translation differences are included in results of
operations.
Exchange Loss and Gain
During 2007 we realized an exchange loss of $64,280 compared to an
exchange loss of $174,278 during 2006. As with translation adjustment, we recognize
exchange gain or loss as a result of having subsidiaries operating in foreign countries
whose functional currency may or may not be the U.S. dollar. This requires us to
translate results of operations from a foreign currency, in this case Kazakh tenge, to
U.S. dollars at the average exchange rate, where results of operations include exchange
gains or losses on the U.S. dollar monetary assets and liabilities.
Net Loss
For all of the foregoing reasons, during the twelve months ended
December 31, 2007 we experienced a net loss of $8,701,550 compared to a net loss of
$4,706,122 during the twelve months ended December 31, 2006. We anticipate we will
continue to experience increasing net losses until we are able to engage in nickel and
cobalt ore extraction, processing and sales.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our capital resources have consisted primarily of funds we have borrowed
from related and non-related parties and the sale of our equity securities. As
discussed above, in July 2006 we raised $28,000,000 through the private placement of
our equity securities which resulted in net proceeds to us of approximately $26,400,000
after deducting fees and costs. These funds, however, represent only a portion of the
funds we will need to move to commercial production. As of December 31, 2007, we had
cash on hand of $756,943. We have used approximately $25,700,000 of the funds raised in
the private offering to repay loans to related and unrelated third parties in the
amount of $12,200,000; for ongoing drilling and exploration of our Gornostai deposit in
the amount of $2,600,000; $2,000,000 for the construction of our hydrochlorination
pilot plant, $300,000 for testing of our pilot plant; $1,600,000 was spent on other
capital expenditures as a part of our minimal working program and $7,000,000 for
working capital.
38
As noted above, we incurred net losses of $8,701,550 and $4,706,122 for
the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively and $14,923,899 for the period
from March 5, 2004 (date of inception) through December 31, 2007. Current assets
exceeded current liabilities by $1,000,533 and by $9,040,599 at December 31, 2007 and
2006, respectively.
We anticipate the need for substantial additional capital resources
during the 2008 fiscal year to meet the annual work program obligations associated with
our Kempirsai and Gornostai deposits. Certain shareholders of the Company have
indicated a willingness to provide us a line of credit to satisfy at least part of our
2008 annual work program requirement. We do not, however, have any formal agreement
with said shareholders to provide this line of credit and the shareholders are under no
obligation to enter into any agreement or make available to us any funds. As discussed
above, if we are unsuccessful in obtaining additional funding during 2008, we will
likely have insufficient funds to continue operations or to meet our annual work
program requirements. If we cannot fulfill our annual work program requirement, we
could be subjected to fines and penalties and to the possible forfeiture of our subsoil
use contracts and licenses.
During the 2007 and 2006 fiscal years, cash was primarily used to fund
operations and repay notes payable to related and non-related parties. See below for
additional discussion and analysis of cash flow.
December 31,
|
2007
|
2006
|
|
|
|
Net cash used in operating activities
|
$(6,900,230)
|
$(5,617,395)
|
Net cash used in investing activities
|
(953,046)
|
(2,722,288)
|
Net cash provided by financing activities
|
–
|
16,473,112
|
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
|
26,539
|
360,885
|
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH
|
$(7,826,737)
|
$
8,494,314
|
In fiscal 2007 net cash used in operating activities was $6,900,230,
compared to net cash used in operating activities of $5,617,395 in fiscal 2006. This
increase in net cash used is primarily the result of increases in exploratory
activities which led to a significant increase in net loss as discussed above. The
significant increases in expenses were in the areas of general and administrative
expenses and exploratory costs.
Net cash used in investing activities during twelve months ended
December 31, 2007 was $953,046. The investments were made mainly on acquisition of
machinery and equipment and transport facilities needed for future mining activities at
the Kempirsai deposit. During 2006 we invested $2,577,696 to acquire equipment, which
is primarily used in KKM’s pilot plant.
There was no cash provided by financing activities in fiscal 2007
compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $16,473,112 in fiscal 2006. As
discussed herein, during the third fiscal quarter 2006, we raised $28,000,000 in a
private placement of our equity securities. This resulted in net proceeds to us of
approximately $26,422,386 after deducting fees and costs. During the 2006 fiscal year,
we realized proceeds from notes payable and notes payable to related parties of
$1,996,731 and $251,900, respectively. These funds were borrowed prior to our private
placement in July 2006 and were used to fund our activities during the first half of
the year. We spent $12,727,001 of the funds raised in the private placement to repay
notes payable, notes payable to related parties and interest expense. As a result, at
December 31, 2006, we had repaid all of our notes payable and notes payable to related
parties.
39
Plan
of Operations
As of December 31, 2007 we had cash on hand of $756,943. Depending of
the result of the litigation process with the MEMR, as discussed above, we anticipate
the need to raise an additional $20,000,000 to meet our annual work program
requirements and planned activities. We plan to seek these funds through a combination
of private equity and debt financing. Following is a brief description of how we plan
to allocate such funds during fiscal 2008.
Hydrochlorination Processing Technology Testing
During the next twelve months we expect to spend approximately $200,000
for testing at our pilot plant of the mineral concentrating capability of our
proprietary hydrochlorination processing technology and to formulate required
procedures, protocols and operational guidelines.
Drilling and Core Analysis
We will allocate approximately $400,000 to drilling and exploration.
This includes drilling of approximately 1,000 meters of the North section of the
Gornostai deposit, sample assaying, sample selection and handling and preparation of
the geological report on the South section for the State Reserves Committee. These
services will be performed by local drilling company and research
institutes.
Extraction Costs
We plan to spend $1,500,000 for extraction of 350,000 tons in order to
meet KKM’s contract obligations.
Feasibility Studies
We anticipate spending approximately $400,000 for the preparation of the
feasibility study for the construction of the pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical
plant in the Gornostai deposit. This study will be prepared by Wardell Armstrong
International. Also, we plan to spend approximately $200,000 for completion of the
pre-feasibility study for the construction of the pyrometallurgical and
hydrometallurgical plant in the Kempirsai deposit. This amount includes involvement of
the Russian institute Gipronickel (St Peterburg) for the pilot testing on the Russian
technology and Wardell Armstrong International for completion of the pilot testing on
the acid leaching technologies. The completion of the study on the Kempirsai is
expected by the end of first half of 2008 with indication of estimates for capital and
operational expenditures which will allow us to make final decision on the technology
to be used for processing of the Kempirsay ore and start the feasibility study and
design of the processing plant.
Processing Plant Design
As discussed in the preceding paragraph, we plan to spend approximately
$10,700,000 for design of the processing plant in the Kempirsai field during second
half of 2008. It also depends on the result of the litigation process with the MEMR and
our ability to raise $20,000,000 equity financing.
40
Field Modernization
We have allocated approximately $1,000,000 for modernization of the
infrastructure and equipment including rail roads and electricity grid lines at the
Kempirsai deposit to allow us to increase our ore extracting capabilities.
Administrative Expenses
We plan to allocate approximately $5,000,000 for administrative expenses
during the next twelve months, which include expenses of maintaining offices in the
United States and Kazakhstan, for salaries and taxes.
Professional Fees
We expect to incur approximately $600,000 in expenses for services of
our financial auditors and securities attorneys during the next twelve
months.
Additional Activities
As discussed in Item 1
“
Business
” we are
currently considering alternatives to a hydrochlorination processing plant to allow us
to begin to generate cash flow from the Kempirsai deposit. We do not currently have
sufficient cash on hand to fund these activities, nor have we budgeted for these items
in our 2007 budget. Therefore, to undertake these activities we will need to obtain
additional capital either through equity or debt financing. We plan to seek this
funding through private equity investments or debt financing to be obtained from banks
or shareholders. We currently have no firm commitment from any party to provide us
additional funding, except discussed above.
Also, on November 7, 2007 we signed the agreement with a Russian
processing plant for sale of 4,500 tons of ore for testing purposes. As of the date of
this report, we have shipped approximately 600 tons of ore. The remaining 3,900 tons of
ore are in the shipping process. We have agreed with the Russian processing plant to
commence negotiations for the sale of up to 500,000 tons of ore annually depending on
the test processing results of the initial 4,500 tons of ore. We plan to start this
negotiation at the second half of 2008.
Summary of Material Contractual Commitments
The following table lists our significant commitments as of December 31,
2007:
Contractual Commitments
|
Total
|
Payments Due by Fiscal Year
|
Less than 1 year
|
2-3 years
|
4-5 years
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kaznickel’s work programs
(1)
|
$ 4,031,221
|
$ 1,500,000
|
$ 2,531,221
|
-0-
|
|
|
|
|
|
KKM’s work programs
(2)
|
$130,000,000
|
$15,000,000
|
$85,000,000
|
$30,000,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating leases
|
$ 328,836
|
$ 328,836
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
Total
|
$134,360,057
|
$16,828,836
|
$87,531,221
|
$30,000,000
|
41
(1)
|
Each year we must submit the Annual Work Program to the
MEMR. The Annual Work Program indicates scopes of mining works for
exploration, production and finance costs. The work programs for
Kaznickel represent estimates based on the subsoil use contract and
results of the preliminary discussions and negotiations with the MEMR
which will be finalized after the extension contract is signed by the
MEMR. The estimates include $550,000 for exploration drilling (2,000
meters - in 2008 and 2009), sampling and assaying (1,000 core samples
in 2008 and 2009), metallurgical tests and preparation of the report to
the State Resource Committee. Also, the estimates include $750,000 for
repayment the Republic of Kazakhstan for historical costs incurred by
it in undertaking geological and geophysical studies and infrastructure
improvements related to the Gornostai deposit. The repayment terms of
this obligation will not be determined until such time as we apply for
and are granted a contract to engage in commercial production by the
Republic of Kazakhstan where we anticipate that we will apply for a
commercial production contract within the next 1-3 years. However,
there is no guarantee when or if we will discover commercially
producible reserves within the Gornostai deposit. Should we decide not
to pursue a commercial production contract, we can relinquish the
Gornostai deposit to the Republic of Kazakhstan in satisfaction of this
obligation. Also, the estimates include the subsoil use contract
requirement to donate $300,000 for the ongoing development of Astana
and Kurchatov, which are cities in Kazakhstan.
|
(2)
|
Each year we must submit the Annual Work Program to the
MEMR. The Annual Work Program indicates scopes of mining works for
exploration, production and finance costs. KKM’s work programs
represent estimates based on the subsoil use contract and the financial
model which is attached to the working program as a justification of
the hydroclorination technology. The contract requires to invest up to
$100,000,000 for construction of a processing plant during the contract
period. As discussed above, prior to the end of 2007, it has been the
practice in Kazakhstan that if the subsurface user, for any reason,
could not fulfill the conditions of its annual work program during a
given year, those conditions were extended to the next year because the
subsoil user’s obligations under its contract were effective
throughout the contract duration. This practice, however, was
terminated by order of the president of Kazakhstan at the end of 2007.
It now appears that the government will impose fines and/or penalties
and may cancel subsurface use contracts if the contract holder fails to
satisfy the annual work program on a yearly basis. Also, the estimates
include $950,000 for removal of all equipment and remediate the
property. This remediation work can be done during the term of the
subsoil use contract or upon completion of the terms of the contract.
The 2008 work program for KKM is under discussion and negotiation and
will be finalized after the Supreme Court announces its final decision
in connection with our appeal of the unilateral cancelation of our
rights to the Kempirsai deposits.
|
We are required, under our subsoil use contracts to submit a proposed
Annual Work Program to the MEMR for approval. Failure to meet the Annual Work Program
requirements could cause us to lose our concessions. For more information regarding
this requirement please see Item 1.
“
Business
” in the
section “
Working Programs of our
Subsidiaries
.”
Off-Balance Sheet Financing Arrangements
As of December 31, 2007 and 2006 we had no off-balance sheet financing
arrangements.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB)
issued SFAS No. 157, Fair Value Measurements, which defines fair value,
establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting
principles and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is
effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods
within those fiscal years. In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position (FSP
FIN) No. 157-2 which extended the effective date to fiscal years beginning after
November 15, 2008. The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS No. 157 to
have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
42
In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, The Fair Value
Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities. SFAS No. 159 permits
companies to choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at
fair value. SFAS No. 159 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal
years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company does not expect the adoption
of SFAS No. 159 to have a material impact on our consolidated financial
statements.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R),
Business Combinations
, and SFAS
No. 160,
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated
Financial Statements.
SFAS No. 141(R) requires an
acquirer to measure the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any
non-controlling interest in the acquiree at their fair values on the acquisition date,
with goodwill being the excess value over the net identifiable assets acquired. SFAS
No. 160 clarifies that a non-controlling interest in a subsidiary should be
reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements, consolidated net income
shall be adjusted to include the net income attributed to the non-controlling interest
and consolidated comprehensive income shall be adjusted to include the comprehensive
income attributed to the non-controlling interest. The calculation of earnings per
share will continue to be based on income amounts attributable to the parent. SFAS
No. 141(R) and SFAS No. 160 are effective for financial statements
issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Early adoption is
prohibited. The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS No. 160 to have a material
impact on our consolidated financial statements.
In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161,
Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities.
SFAS No. 161 amends SFAS No. 133,
Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging
Activities
to require enhanced disclosures concerning the
manner in which an entity uses derivatives (and the reasons it uses them), the manner
in which derivatives and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS No. 133 and
interpretations thereof, and the effects that derivatives and related hedged items have
on an entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows. SFAS No. 161
is effective for financial statements of fiscal years and interim periods beginning
after November 15, 2008. The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS No. 161 to
have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.
Critical Accounting Policies
We prepare our financial statements in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America. As such, we are required
to make certain estimates, judgments and assumptions that we believe are reasonable
based upon the information available. These estimates and assumptions affect the
reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of expenses and revenues, to the extent we generated revenue
during the periods presented. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Our
significant accounting policies require us to make difficult, subjective or complex
judgments or estimates. We consider an accounting estimate to be critical if (1) the
accounting estimate requires us to make assumption about matters that were highly
uncertain at the time the accounting estimate was made and (2) changes in the estimates
that are reasonably likely to occur from period to period, or use different estimates
that we reasonably could have used in the current period, would have a material impact
on our financial condition or results of operations.
43
There are other items within our financial statements that require
estimation, but are not deemed critical as defined above. Changes in estimates used in
these and other items could have a material impact on our financial statements.
Management has discussed the development of these critical accounting estimates with
our board of directors and they have reviewed the foregoing disclosure.
Use of Estimates
– In
connection with the preparation of our financial statements, we are required to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the financial statements
and accompanying notes. One of the significant areas requiring the use of management
estimates and assumptions relates to environmental reclamation and closure obligations.
Under our licenses with the Republic of Kazakhstan, following completion of exploration
and mining activities we are required to reclaim our licensed territories. To prepare
our financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in
the United States of America we are required to account for this obligation. The
determination of the amount of the mine retirement and environmental reclamation
obligation the Republic of Kazakhstan will impose upon us, however, has not yet been
determined. The determination of the mine retirement and environmental reclamation
obligation is based, in significant part, on the size of each deposit. Because we are
still exploring our Gornostai property and do not yet know the full extent of the
Gornostai deposit, the mine retirement and environmental reclamation obligation has not
yet been set by the Republic of Kazakhstan. We base our estimate of this obligation on
historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be
reasonable under the circumstances. Accordingly, actual results may differ
significantly from our estimate.
Income Taxes
– While we are a
Utah corporation, our primary operations are in the Republic of Kazakhstan. The
Republic of Kazakhstan was formed in 1991 following the break-up of the former Soviet
Union. At the time the Republic of Kazakhstan was formed, it adopted a new tax code.
The tax code and the application of tax laws in the Republic of Kazakhstan are still
developing and may not be uniformly applied in all instances.
Item 7A.
|
Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures About Market
Risk
|
Our primary market risks are fluctuations in commodity prices and
foreign currency exchange rates. We do not currently use derivative commodity
instruments or similar financial instruments to attempt to hedge commodity price risks
associated with future crude oil production.
Our revenues, profitability and future growth will depend substantially
on prevailing prices for nickel and cobalt. If and when we commence commercial
production, commodity prices will affect the amount of cash flow available for capital
expenditures and our ability to either borrow or raise additional capital. Price will
also affect our ability to produce, transport and market the nickel and cobalt we
produce.
44
Historically, nickel and cobalt prices have been subject to significant
volatility in response to changes in supply, market uncertainty and a variety of other
factors beyond our control. Nickel and cobalt are likely to continue to be volatile in
the future and this volatility makes it difficult to predict future price movements
with any certainty. Any declines in nickel and cobalt prices would reduce the revenues
we could earn when we begin commercial production, and could also reduce the amount of
nickel and cobalt that we can produce economically. As a result, this could have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of
operations.
Our functional currency is the U.S. dollar. Our Kazakhstani subsidiary
Kaznickel uses the U.S. dollar as its functional currency and KKM uses the Kazakh tenge
as its functional currencies. To the extent that business transactions in Kazakhstan
are denominated in the Kazakh tenge we are exposed to transaction gains and losses that
could result from fluctuations in the U.S. Dollar—Kazakh tenge exchange rate.
When the US dollar strengthens in relation to the Kazakh tenge, the US dollar-reported
expenses will decrease. We do not engage in hedging transactions to protect us from
such risk.
Item 8.
|
Financial Statements and Supplementary
Data
|
See Consolidated Financial Statements listed in the accompanying index
to the Consolidated Financial Statements on Page F-1 herein.
Item 9.
|
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
Accounting and Financial
|
We have made no changes in and had no disagreements with our independent
registered accounting firm on accounting and financial disclosure during the 2007
fiscal year.
Item 9A(T).
|
Controls and Procedures
|
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and
Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined
in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the “Exchange Act”), that are designed to provide reasonable
assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file
or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within
the time periods specified in the SEC rules and forms, and that such information
is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive
officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions
regarding required financial disclosures. Because of inherent limitations, our
disclosure controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can
provide only reasonable, and not absolute, assurance that the objectives of such
disclosure controls and procedures are met.
45
As of the end of the period covered by this report we conducted an
evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management,
including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the
effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures
pursuant to Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b). Based on this
evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded
that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31,
2007.
Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial
Reporting
Our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief
Financial Officer, is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal
control over financial reporting for the Company as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the
Exchange Act. Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide
reasonable assurance to management and our board of directors regarding the preparation
and fair presentation of published financial statements and the reliability of
financial reporting. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over
financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those
systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect
to financial statement preparation and presentation.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal
control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2007. In making this
assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”) in
Internal Control - Integrated Framework
.
Based on our assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2007, the
Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those
criteria.
This annual report does not include an attestation report of the
Company’s registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over
financial reporting. Management’s report was not subject to attestation by our
registered public accounting firm pursuant to temporary rules of the Securities and
Exchange Commission that permit us to provide only management’s report in this
annual report on Form 10-K.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial
Reporting
There were no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting
during the quarter ended December 31, 2007 that materially affected, or are reasonably
likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B.
|
Other Information
|
None.
46
PART III
Item 10.
|
Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate
Governance
|
The following table sets forth our directors, executive officers,
promoters and control persons, their ages, and all offices and positions held.
Directors are elected for a period of one year and thereafter serve until their
successor is duly elected by the stockholders and qualified. Officers and other
employees serve at the will of the board of directors.
Name of Director or
Executive Officer
|
|
Age
|
|
Positions with
the Company
|
|
Director Since
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Yermek Kudabayev
|
|
38
|
|
Chief Executive Officer, President and
Director
|
|
December 2007
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Zhassulan Bitenov
|
|
31
|
|
Chief Financial Officer
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James Kohler
|
|
60
|
|
Independent Director
|
|
May 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Timothy Adair
|
|
43
|
|
Independent Director
|
|
May 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Valery Tolkachev
|
|
39
|
|
Independent Director
|
|
May 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nurlan Tajibayev
|
|
60
|
|
Vice President of Metallurgy and Director
|
|
October 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dossan Kassymkhanuly
|
|
39
|
|
Vice President and Director
|
|
August 2007
|
The above individuals currently serve as the Company’s officers
and/or directors. A brief description of their background and business experience
follows:
Yermek Kudabayev
. In December 2007 the
Company’s board of directors appointed Yermek Kudabayev as the Chief Executive
Officer, President of the Company and Chairman of the board of directors.
Mr. Kudabayev had served as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer since
April 2006 and as interim Chief Executive Officer and interim President since May 2007.
Mr. Kudabayev earned a Bachelors degree in Engineer-Economics from the Moscow Institute
of Steel and Alloys in 1993. He earned an MBA degree from the Kazakhstan Institute of
Management, Economics and Strategic Research in 1996. Mr. Kudabayev is a past
member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, an international
accountancy body. He was issued a Certified Accounting Practitioner Certificate from
the International Counsel of Certified Accountants and Auditors in 2002. He has been a
Kazakhstani Certified Accountant since 1998 and a Certified Kazakhstani Auditor since
2000. Prior to joining the Company in 2006, Mr. Kudabayev served as the Finance
Director for Kazkhoil Aktobe LLP from 2003 to April 2006. As the Finance Director,
Mr. Kudabayev was responsible for budgeting, planning, cash flow forecasting and
management, strategic research accounting, taxation and reporting. From 2002 to 2003,
Mr. Kudabayev served as the Director of the Astana, Kazakhstan office of Ernst
& Young, where he was responsible for auditing and coordination of projects in the
Astana, Karaganda and Pavlodar regions of Kazakhstan. From 1997 to 2002
Mr. Kudabayev worked for Arthur Andersen as a Senior Auditor and as a Manager.
Mr. Kudabayev was appointed the Chief Financial Officer of Bekem Metals, Inc. in
April 2006. Mr. Kudabayev is not a director of any other SEC reporting
issuer.
47
Zhassulan Bitenov
. In January 2008 Mr.
Bitenov accepted appointment as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer. In 1999
Mr. Bitenov earned a Masters of Arts in Economics from Kazahstan Institute of
Management, Economics and Strategic Research in Almaty, Kazakshtan, with a
specialization in international economics. He earned a Bachelors degree in
International Economics from the International Kazakh –Turkish University in
Turkestan, Kazakhstan in 1997. Mr. Bitenov passed the U.S. CPA exam in 2001.
Mr. Bitenov served in various positions with the Almaty office of the accounting
firm of Ernst & Young from November 2001 to October 2003 and from December 2004
through December 2007. While at Ernst & Young, Mr. Bitenov worked as a Senior
auditor, Audit manager and Senior manager. Among other things, he was responsible for
clients audits, preparation of audit reports, management of current engagements and
negotiations with clients. From October 2003 to April 2004 he served as the Vice
President of JSC AstanaEnergoService where he was responsible for the daily management
and supervision of several company departments including the accounting, planning,
sales, legal and marketing departments. From June 2004 to December 2004 he served as
the finance director of JSC Interfarma-K.
James F. Kohler
. Mr. Kohler received a B.S.
in geology in 1970 and an M.S. in geology in 1980 from Utah State University. From 2001
to the present he has been employed as the Branch Chief of Solid Minerals with the U.S.
Bureau of Land Management in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he oversees all mining
activity on public lands within the State of Utah. He began working at the U.S. Bureau
of Land Management in 1988 as a Senior Geologist, providing geologic support for all
federal solid mineral leasing actions to establish a basis for economic evaluation of
leasing tracts. From 1987-1988 Mr. Kohler served as Senior Geologist with the Utah
Office of High Level Nuclear Waste in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he provided oversight
for high-level nuclear waste repository characterization in Nevada, Texas, and
Washington. From 1981-1986 he was the senior geologist and Manager of coal development
and mining geology for Anaconda Minerals/ARCO Coal Company in Denver, Colorado
supervising geologic support for operating coal mines and acquisitions in the U.S.,
Indonesia and China. From 1977 to 1981 Mr. Kohler was a Supervisory Geologist with the
U.S. Geological Survey in Salt Lake City, Utah. In 2000 Mr. Kohler was awarded the Utah
Governor's Medal for Science and Technology. Mr. Kohler is not a director of any other
SEC reporting issuer.
Timothy Adair
. Mr. Adair received a Masters
in Business Administration (MBA) from Brigham Young University, located in Provo, Utah,
in 1990. Mr. Adair also received a Bachelors of Science from the same university in
Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Mathematics in 1988. Since 2005, Mr. Adair has
been principally engaged as the Owner/President of Cube Office Designs located in Salt
Lake City, Utah where he has successfully transferred company ownership and management.
Cube Office Designs currently employs 22 persons and has annual revenue of
approximately $1.5 million USD. Prior to purchasing Cube Office Designs, from 1989
through 2004 Mr. Adair was principally engaged as the Human Resources Productivity /
Efficiency Manager with Intermountain Health Care (IHC) of Salt Lake City, Utah. IHC is
a health care provider with 25,000+ employees and annual revenue of 2.5 + billion USD.
While with IHC Mr. Adair consistently implemented cost savings improvements, such as
the standardizing and automating of employee transactions which resulted in annual
savings of $200k. Mr. Adair is also a licensed real estate agent and has been an avid
real estate investor and property manager since 1989 as a partner of ADLAW. Mr. Adair
was a member of the Oracle Applications User Group (OAUG) and the Intermountain
Compensation and Benefits Association (ICBA). Mr. Adair is not a director of any other
SEC reporting issuer.
48
Valery Tolkachev
. Since 1999, Mr. Tolkachev
has been employed with Aton Investment Company in Moscow, Russia, where he currently
serves as the Managing Director, Capital Markets. From 1991 to 1999, Mr. Tolkachev
served in various positions with various employers including, MDM Bank, InkomBank,
InkomCapital and others. Mr. Tolkachev graduated with Honors from the High Military
School in Kiev, USSR in 1989. In 2005, he completed his studies at the Academy of
National Economy, as a qualified lawyer. Mr. Tolkachev is also a director of BMB Munai,
Inc., and Caspian Services, Inc., both SEC reporting issuers.
Nurlan Tajibayev
. Mr. Tajibayev has worked
in the metallurgy industry since earning a Bachelors degree in Engineer-Metallurgy from
the Kazakh State Technical University in 1973. Prior to joining Bekem Metals, Mr.
Tajibayev served as the Executive Director of Kyzyl Kain Mamyt, LLP, a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Bekem Metals. Before joining Kyzyl Kain Mamyt in 2003, Mr. Tajibayev
served as Chairman of Canat UK Ltd., a supplier of metallurgical equipment from Europe
and the United States to Kazakhstan, for six years. Mr. Tajibayev also spent twenty
years serving in various capacities, including Senior Engineer, for Aktyubinsk
Ferroalloys Plant and President of Kazchrome Corporation. Mr. Tajibayev is not a
director of any other SEC reporting issuer.
Dossan Kassymkhanuly.
In August 2007, the
board of directors appointed Mr. Kassymkhanuly as a director. The board also
appointed Mr. Kassymkhanuly as a vice-president of the Company.
Mr. Kassymkhanuly served as the Business Manager for Gauhar-Tas Centre from
December 1992 to February 1999. Gauhar-Tas Centre was engaged in foreign-economic
activity with China, including exportation of non-ferrous metals and importation of
building materials and mining engineering. From February 1999 to November 2003
Mr. Kassymkhanuly served as Director of the Semey FPG JSC regional office in
Ust-Kamenogorsk. He was responsible for coal sales in Eastern Kazakhstan.
Mr. Kassymkhanuly also took part in the development of the Gornostai nickel-cobalt
deposit, as well as in the pilot industrial smelting for ferronickel at the Pavlodar
tractor plant. He was also responsible for negotiations with the Geology Committee of
the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources of the Republic of Kazakhstan, including
overseeing amendments and addendums to contracts for subsoil use.
Mr. Kassymkhanuly chairmanned a group on implementation of new technology. In
particular, he took part in the construction project for a briquette plant to produce
briquette coal at the Karazhira coal deposit, Eastern Kazakhstan.
Mr. Kassymkhanyly served as the Director of the Representative Office of Kaznickel
LLP in Astana, Kazakhstan from March 2004 to August 2007. In that position he was
primarily responsible for negotiations with various government entities and committees
on behalf of Kaznickel. Mr. Kassymkhanuly also served as a member of the board of
directors of Bekem Metals, Inc. from August 2005 to October 2006.
Mr. Kassymkhanuly earned a degree in Engineer-Construction from Semipalatinsk
College of Civil Engineering in 1989. He earned a Bachelors degree in
Engineer-Economics from the Eastern Kazakhstan Technical University in 2002. At
present, he is a candidate for a PhD degree in Engineering Sciences at the Semey
State Institute. Mr. Kassymkhanuly is not a director of any other SEC reporting
issuer.
Aleksandr Rassokhin
. In December 2007, Mr.
Rassokhin was appointed to the position of Vice President of Geology. Mr. Rassokhin
served as the Exploration Manager since October 2006. He has over thirty years
experience in solid minerals geology. His work experience includes serving as the
President and Exploration Manager of Frontier Mining Ltd. Kazakhstan, where he managed
Frontier’s exploration programs and gold processing in Kazakhstan. Prior to
joining Frontier in 2005, Mr. Rassokhin spent ten years serving as Chief Geologist for
a number of companies operating in Kazakhstan, including Rio Tinto Mining and
Exploration, Ltd., Santa Fe Pacific Gold Kazakhstan Corporation and Newmont Kazakhstan
Gold, Ltd. As Chief Geologist his duties have included identification of new mineral
deposits, preparation of exploration plans and oversight of field explorations. Mr.
Rassokhin also spent fourteen years with the Research Institute of Mineral Resources,
Kazakhstan. Mr. Rassokhin is 54 years old.
49
There are no family relationships among any of the Company’s
executive officers, significant employees or directors.
|
Involvement in Certain Legal
Proceedings
|
To our knowledge, during the past five years none of our directors or
executive officers has been convicted or is currently the subject of a criminal
proceeding, excluding traffic violations or similar minor offenses, or has been a party
to any judicial or administrative proceeding that resulted in a judgment, decree or
final order enjoining the person from future violations of, or prohibiting activities
subject to, federal or state securities laws, or a finding of any violation of federal
or state securities laws, except for matters that were dismissed without sanction or
settlement. Similarly, in the past five years none of our directors or executive
officers, or any business in which they were a general partner or executive officer,
have been the subject of a bankruptcy proceeding.
Compliance with Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act
Directors and executive officers are required to comply with Section
16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, which requires generally that such
persons file reports regarding ownership of and transactions in securities of the
Company on Forms 3, 4, and 5. A Form 3 is an initial statement of ownership of
securities. Form 4 is to report changes in beneficial ownership. Form 5 covers annual
statements of change in beneficial ownership.
Based solely on management’s review of these reports during the
year ended December 31, 2007, it appears that Dossan Kassymkhanuly failed to timely
file a Form 3 when he joined the board of directors of the Company in August 2007.
Nurlan Tajibayev failed to timely file a Form 4 in October 2007 when 47,929 shares of
his restricted stock grant vested. It is anticipated that Mr. Kassymkhanuly and Mr.
Tajibayev will file the required forms to remedy their delinquent filings as soon as
practicable.
Code
of Ethics
Our board of directors has adopted a code of ethics that applies to all
of our officers and employees, including our principal executive officer, principal
financial officer, principal accounting officer, controller and persons performing
similar functions. Our code of ethics is posted on our website which can be found
at
www.bekemmetals.com.
Committees of the Board of Directors
We do not currently have a standing audit committee or other committee
performing similar functions, nor have we adopted an audit committee charter. Given the
size of the Company, its available resources and the fact that the OTCBB does not
require us to have an audit committee, the board of directors has determined that it is
in the Company’s best interest to have the full board fulfill the functions that
would be performed by the audit committee, including selection, review and oversight of
the Company’s independent accountants, the approval of all audit, review and
attest services provided by the independent accountants, the integrity of the
Company’s reporting practices and the evaluation of the Company’s internal
controls and accounting procedures. The board is also responsible for the pre-approval
of all non-audit services provided by its independent auditors. Non-audit services are
only provided by our independent accountants to the extent permitted by law.
Pre-approval is required unless a “de minimus” exception is met. To qualify
for the “de minimus” exception, the aggregate amount of all such non-audit
services provided to the Company must constitute not more than 5% of the total amount
of fees paid by us to our independent auditors during the fiscal year in which the
non-audit services are provided; such services were not recognized by us at the time of
the engagement to be non-audit services; and the non-audit services are promptly
brought to the attention of the board and approved prior to the completion of the audit
by the board or by one or more members of the board to whom authority to grant such
approval has been delegated.
50
As we do not currently have a standing audit committee, we do not, at
this time have an “audit committee financial expert” as defined under the
rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The board does believe, however, that
should the Company form a standing audit committee in the future, Mr. Timothy Adair, an
independent director, could qualify as an audit committee expert.
Nominating Committee
We do not currently have a standing nominating committee or other
committee performing similar functions, nor have we adopted a nominating committee
charter. Given the size of the Company, its available resources and the fact that the
OTCBB does not require us to have a nominating committee, the board of directors has
determined that it is in the Company’s best interest to have the full board of
directors to participate in the consideration for director nominees. In general, when
the board determines that expansion of the board or replacement of a director is
necessary or appropriate, the board will review through candidate interviews with
members of management, consult with the candidate’s associates and through other
means determine a candidate’s honesty, integrity, reputation in and commitment to
the community, judgment, personality and thinking style, residence, willingness to
devote the necessary time, potential conflicts of interest, independence, understanding
of financial statements and issues, and the willingness and ability to engage in
meaningful and constructive discussion regarding Company issues. The board would review
any special expertise, for example, that qualifies a person as an audit committee
financial expert, membership or influence in a particular geographic or business target
market, or other relevant business experience. To date we have not paid any fee to any
third party to identify or evaluate, or to assist it in identifying or evaluating,
potential director candidates.
The nominating committee will consider director candidates nominated by
shareholders during such times as the Company is actively considering obtaining new
directors. Candidates recommended by shareholders will be evaluated based on the same
criteria described above. Shareholders desiring to suggest a candidate for
consideration should send a letter to the Company’s Secretary and include: (a) a
statement that the writer is a shareholder (providing evidence if the person's shares
are held in street name) and is proposing a candidate for consideration; (b) the name
and contact information for the candidate; (c) a statement of the candidate’s
business and educational experience; (d) information regarding the candidate’s
qualifications to be director, including but not limited to an evaluation of the
factors discussed above which the board would consider in evaluating a candidate; (e)
information regarding any relationship or understanding between the proposing
shareholder and the candidate; (f) information regarding potential conflicts of
interest; and (g) a statement that the candidate is willing to be considered and
willing to serve as director if nominated and elected. Because of the small size of the
Company and the limited need to seek additional directors, there is no assurance that
all shareholder proposed candidates will be fully considered, that all candidates will
be considered equally, or that the proponent of any candidate or the proposed candidate
will be contacted by the Company or the board, and no undertaking to do so is implied
by the willingness to consider candidates proposed by shareholders.
51
Compensation Committee
We do not have a standing compensation committee or a charter; rather
our Chief Executive Officer evaluates officer and employee compensation issues subject
to the approval of our board of directors. Our Chief Executive Officer makes
recommendations to the board of directors as to employee benefit programs and officer
and employee compensation. The compensation of our Chief Executive Officer is
determined and approved directly by board of directors. Neither the Chief Executive
Officer nor the board of directors engaged compensation consultants during the
year.
Item 11.
|
Executive Compensation
|
Compensation Discussion and Analysis
We do not have a standing compensation committee. Our Chief Executive
Officer (“CEO”) makes recommendations to our board of directors as to
employee benefit programs and officer and employee compensation.
|
Objectives and
Philosophy of Our Executive Compensation Program
|
The primary objectives of our executive compensation programs are
to:
|
•
|
attract, retain and motivate skilled and knowledgeable
individuals;
|
|
•
|
ensure that executive compensation is aligned with our
corporate strategies and business objectives
|
|
•
|
promote the achievement of key strategic and financial
performance measures by linking short-term and long-term cash and
equity incentives to the achievement of measurable corporate and
individual performance goals; and
|
|
•
|
align executives’ incentives with the creation of
stockholder value.
|
To achieve these objectives, our CEO and board of directors evaluate our
executive compensation program with the objective of setting compensation at levels
they believe will allow us to attract and retain qualified executives. In addition, a
portion of each executive’s overall compensation is tied to key strategic,
financial and operational goals set by our board of directors. We also provide a
portion of our executive compensation in the form of equity awards that vest over time,
which we believe helps us retain our executives and align their interests with those of
our stockholders by allowing the executives to participate in our longer term success
as reflected in asset growth and stock price appreciation.
|
Components of our
Executive Compensation Program
|
At this time, the primary elements of our executive compensation program
are:
52
|
•
|
equity incentive awards; and
|
|
•
|
benefits and other compensation.
|
We do not have any formal or informal policy or target for allocating
compensation between short-term and long-term compensation, between cash and non-cash
compensation or among the different forms of non-cash compensation. Instead, we have
determined subjectively on a case-by-case basis the appropriate level and mix of the
various compensation components. Similarly, we do not rely on benchmarking against our
competitors in making compensation related decisions. In the past, however, we have
hired executive recruiters as needed to help locate and identify suitable candidates
for hire. In this context we typically discuss compensation packages with the recruiter
to structure compensation packages we believe will be attractive to prospective
executive employees.
Named Executive Officers
The following table identifies the persons who, during the 2007 fiscal
year served as our principal executive officer, our principal financial officer and our
most highly paid executive and non-executive officers, who, for purposes of this
Compensation Disclosure and Analysis only, are referred to herein as the “named
executive officers.”
Name
|
|
Corporate
Office
|
|
|
|
Yermek
Kudabayev
|
|
Chief Executive Officer,
President and Former CFO
(1)(2)
|
Marat
Cherdabayev
|
|
Former Chief Executive
Officer and Former President
(2)(3)
|
Zhassulan
Bitenov
|
|
Chief Financial
Officer
(4)
|
Dossan
Kassymkhanuly
|
|
Vice
President
(2)
|
Nurlan
Tajibayev
|
|
Vice President of
Metallurgy
(2)
|
Aleksandr
Rassokhin
|
|
Vice President of
Geology
|
(1)
|
Mr. Kudabayev served as our Chief Financial Officer from
May 2006 to December 2007. He was appointed as interim President and
Chief Executive Officer in June 2007 following the resignation of Marat
Cherdabayev from those positions. In December 2007, Mr. Kudabayev was
appointed as a director and as Chairman of the Board of Directors. At
that time he was also named as the President and Chief Executive
Officer of the Company.
|
(2)
|
Mr. Kudabayev, Mr. Cherdabayev, Mr. Kassymkhanuly and
Mr. Tajibayev have served as members of the board of directors and
received no compensation for services rendered as a director. All
compensation amounts paid to these individuals were paid as
compensation for services rendered as an employee of the
Company.
|
(3)
|
Mr. Cherdabayev resigned as our Chief Executive Officer,
President and Chairman of the Board of Directors in June
2007.
|
(4)
|
Mr. Bitenov joined the Company and was appointed Chief
Financial Officer of the Company in January 2008.
|
We maintain employment agreements with each of the named executive
officers. The employment agreements we have with Mr. Kassymkhanuly, Mr. Tajibayev and
Mr. Rassokhin are the standard statutorily required employment agreements for all
employees in the Republic of Kazakhstan. These employment agreements are limited in
their terms and primarily provide for statutory requirements related to the rights of
employees, base salary, payment of income and social taxes and pension fund
obligations.
53
We maintain a more detailed employment contracts with Mr. Kudabayev and
Mr. Bitenov. As discussed in more detail below, in addition to base salary and payment
of income and employment-related taxes, these employment agreements cover a broad range
of other components of the executive’s compensation package.
Base salaries are used to recognize the experience, skills, knowledge
and responsibilities required of all our employees, including our executive officers.
Base salaries for our executive officers typically have been set in our offer letter to
the individual at the outset of employment. Under the terms of these employment
agreements base salary and other components of compensation, may be evaluated by our
board of directors for adjustment based on an assessment of the individual’s
performance and compensation trends in our industry.
As discussed above, we maintain a more detailed employment contract with
Mr. Kudabayev, which prior to the end of our fiscal year, governed his employment as
our Chief Financial Officer. At the end of our 2007 fiscal year, our board of directors
appointed Mr. Kudabayev to serve as the Company’s President and Chief Executive
Officer on a permanent basis. Mr. Kudabayev had been serving in these positions on an
interim basis since June 2007, while he continued to also serve as the Company’s
Chief Financial Officer. In March 2008 in recognition of the fact that Mr.
Kudabayev’s position with the Company had changed, the board approved amendments
to Mr. Kudabayev’s employment contract to recognize his change in position. In
connection with this amendment, the board voted to increase Mr. Kudabayev’s base
salary from $120,000 per year net to $180,000 per year net, which is equivalent to the
amount the Company had been paying its former President and Chief Executive Officer in
salary and housing allowance. Mr. Kudabayev’s agreement does not provide of a
housing allowance. This salary increase was made effective retroactive to June 2007,
when Mr. Kudabayev began serving as the Company’s President and Chief Executive
Officer. The board did not consider salary increases for any of the other named
executive officers.
Our board of directors has the discretion to award cash bonuses based on
our financial performance and individual objectives. The corporate financial
performance measures, which have typically been developed by our board of directors,
are given the greatest weight in this bonus analysis. During fiscal 2007 the board of
directors did not award cash bonuses to any of the named executive officers.
Our equity award program is the primary vehicle for offering long-term
incentives to our executives. Our equity awards to executives have typically been made
in the form of restricted stock grants. We believe that equity grants provide our
executives with a direct link to our long-term performance, create an ownership culture
and align the interests of our executives and our stockholders. Typically, we include a
restricted stock grant award as part of the executive employee’s compensation
package at the time we hire the individual. We do not use a formula to determine the
size of our restricted stock grants. This determination is left to the discretion of
the board of directors and is made on a case-by-case basis, although the board does
consider past awards in making such determination. These restricted stock awards vest
over time, typically three years, with one-quarter vesting in each of the first two
years and the final one-half vesting in the third year. Vesting of such awards is
typically tied to some performance measure directly tied to the responsibilities of the
employee, and may also be tied to certain Company landmark events. Should those vesting
requirements not be met, the associated shares would not vest to the individual.
Similarly, should the individual leave employment with the Company for any reason, any
shares that have not vested at that time shall be forfeited back to the Company. While
pecuniary interest in and the right to dispose of the shares awarded under our
restricted stock grants does not vest to the individual until he has satisfied the
vesting conditions, the individual is allowed to vote all of the shares included in the
grant and to enjoy all the other benefits associated with ownership of the shares. We
believe the vesting features further our objective of executive retention because this
feature provides an incentive to our executives to remain in our employ during the
vesting period.
54
We may also make discretionary equity awards to the named officers. In
determining the size of equity grants to our executives, our board of directors will
consider company-level performance, the applicable individual’s performance, the
amount of equity previously awarded to the individual, the vesting of such awards and
the recommendations of management.
Grants of discretionary equity awards, including those to executives,
would be approved by our board of directors and would generally be granted based on the
fair market value of our common stock. Our board of directors has not previously
granted discretionary equity awards and did not make discretion equity award during
2007.
|
Benefits and Other
Compensation
|
Under the terms of their employment contracts, our named executive
officers are permitted to participate in such health care, disability insurance and
other employee benefits plans as may be in effect with the Company from time to time to
the extent the executive is eligible under the terms of those plans.
For example, under the terms of their respective employment agreements
Mr. Kudabayev and Mr. Bitenov are allowed to participate in such pension, profit
sharing, bonus, life insurance, hospitalization, major medical and other employee
benefit plans that may be in effect from time to time and to the extent he is eligible
to participate under the terms of the particular plan. They are each also entitled to
28 days of paid vacation per year.
During the year we paid rent for housing for Mr. Cherdabayev in the
amount of $16,000 and for Mr. Kassymkhanuly in the amount of $24,339. The employment
agreements of our other named executive officers do not provide a housing
allowance.
Under all of our employment agreements we agree to pay all income and
social taxes and dues under applicable laws of Kazakhstan for our named executive
officers including income and social taxes and government pension fund payments. This
does not include the officer’s home base income or other taxes in the case of
expatriates.
As is the custom in Kazakhstan, we pay the income taxes of our
employees, including the named executive officers. The income tax rate for individuals
in Kazakhstan for is currently 10%.
We make payments of mandatory Kazakhstani social taxes, which typically
range between 7% and 20% of an employee’s wages. These costs are recorded in the
period when they are incurred and presented as salary related tax expense in the income
statement.
55
Summary Compensation Table
The table below summarizes compensation paid to or earned by our Chief
Executive Officer, our Chief Financial Officer and our other most highly compensated
officers, who we refer to collectively as our “named executive
officers.”
Name and
Principal Position
|
Year
|
Salary
|
Stock
Awards
(8)
|
All Other
Compensation
|
Total
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Marat Cherdabayev
(1)
|
2007
|
$ 55,000
|
$ (54,830)
(2)
|
$56,343
|
$111,343
|
Former CEO and President
|
2006
|
$119,000
|
$ 54,830
(2)
|
$77,038
|
$250,868
|
|
2005
(5)
|
$110,000
|
$-0-
|
$ -0-
|
$110,000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Yermek
Kudabayev
(3)
|
2007
|
$155,000
|
$332,650
|
$72,493
|
$560,143
|
CEO, President and former CFO
|
2006
|
$ 90,000
|
$ 31,089
|
$40,555
|
$161,644
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Zhassulan Bitenov
(4)
|
2007
|
$ -0-
|
$ -0-
|
$ -0-
|
$ -0-
|
CFO
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dossan
Kassymkhanuly
(5)
|
2007
|
$ 91,300
|
$
-0-
|
$53,411
|
$144,711
|
Vice-President
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nurlan
Tajibayev
(6)
|
2007
|
$ 60,000
|
$124,615
|
$22,800
|
$207,415
|
Vice-President of Metallurgy
|
2006
|
$ 35,000
|
$ 24,923
|
$15,957
|
$ 75,880
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Aleksandr
Rassokhin
(7)
|
2007
|
$ 60,000
|
$ 56,035
|
$23,366
|
$139,401
|
Vice-President of Geology
|
2006
|
$ 20,000
|
$ 11,207
|
$ 9,728
|
$ 40,935
|
(1)
|
Mr. Cherdabayev served as the Chief Executive Officer
and President from May 2005 to June 2007. On October 20, 2006, Mr.
Cherdabayev was granted 421,772 shares with the following vesting
terms: 105,443 shares in October 2007; 105,443 shares in October 2008
and 210,886 shares in October 2009. In June 2007 Mr. Cherdabayev
resigned as an officer and director of the Company prior to the vesting
of any of his restricted stock grants. In accordance with the terms of
his restricted stock grant, the entire grant was forfeited back to the
Company upon his resignation.
|
(2)
|
In 2006 we recognized deferred compensation expense
associated with Mr. Cherdabayev’s stock grant of $54,830. In
2007, when the stock grant was forfeited back to the Company we
reversed the expense.
|
(3)
|
Mr. Kudabayev served as the Chief Financial Officer from
April 2006 to December 2007. Mr. Kudabayev has served as the Chief
Executive Officer and President, initially on an interim basis since
June 2007. His employment agreement was amended in March 2008, with
effect from June 1, 2007, to reflect his new responsibilities. The
amended employment agreement provides for an annual salary of $180,000
net of taxes. On October 20, 2006, with amendments made on March 25,
2008, Mr. Kudabayev was granted 421,772 shares, which vest as follows:
95,857 shares vested in April 2007; 115,029 shares vested in April
2008. The final 210,886 shares will vest in April 2009 provided the
Company timely files its reports with U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission. Mr. Kudabayev forfeits any unvested grants at the time his
employment with the Company terminates.
|
(4)
|
Mr. Bitenov joined the Company and was named Chief
Financial Officer of the Company in January 2008. Subsequent to the
fiscal year end, on March 25, 2008, the board of directors Mr. Bitenov
was granted a restricted stock grant of 383,429 shares, which vest as
follows: 98,857 shares on January 3, 2009, 95,857 shares on January 3,
2010 and 191,715 shares on January 3, 2011. Vesting of Mr.
Bitenov’s stock grants is contingent upon the Company timely
filing its reports with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission
during each fiscal year. Mr. Bitenov forfeits any unvested grants at
the time his employment with the Company terminates.
|
(5)
|
Mr. Kassymkhanuly has served as a member of the
board of directors and Vice-President of the Company since August 2007.
Mr. Kassymkhanuly also served as a member of the board of
directors of Bekem Metals, Inc. from August 2005 to October
2006.
|
56
(6)
|
Mr. Tajibayev has served as a member of the board
of directors and Vice-President of Metallurgy since October 2006. On
October 20, 2006, with amendments made on March 25, 2008, Mr. Tajibayev
was granted 191,715 shares, which vest as follows: 47,292 shares vested
in October 2007 provided that the Company met the deadlines for the
pilot plant construction, 47,292 shares will vest in October 2008
provided the Company starts construction of the processing plant by
October, 2008, and the final 95,857 shares will vest in October 2009
conditioned upon the Company having commenced commercial operations.
Mr. Tajibayev forfeits any unvested grants at the time his employment
with the Company terminates.
|
(7)
|
Mr. Rassokhin has served as a vice-president on
geology from December 2007. On October 20, 2006, Mr. Rassokhin was
granted 86,207 shares, which vest as follows: 21,552 shares vested in
October 2007 provided that the Company timely performed the drilling
work program requirements as dictated by the MEMR, 21,552 shares will
vest in October 2008 provided the Company timely performs the drilling
work program requirements as dictated by the MEMR, and the final 43,103
shares will vest in October 2009 conditioned upon the Company having
commenced commercial operations. Mr. Rassokhin forfeits any unvested
grants at the time his employment with the Company
terminates.
|
(8)
|
Represents the dollar amount recognized for financial
statement reporting purposes in accordance with FAS 123(R) with respect
to restricted stock grants awarded on October 20, 2006. The restricted
stock grants were valued at $1.95 per share, which represented the
closing market price for our common stock on the date of
grant.
|
All
Other Compensation
The table below provides additional information regarding “all
other compensation” awarded to the named executive officers as disclosed in the
“All Other Compensation” column of the
“
Summary Compensation
Table
” above.
Name
|
Year
|
Income
Tax
|
Social
Tax
|
Medical
Insurance
|
Pension
Fund
|
Rent
|
Total
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Marat Cherdabayev
|
2007
|
$ 20,648
|
$ 16,655
|
$ -0-
|
$ 3,040
|
$ 16,000
|
$ 56,343
|
|
2006
|
21,289
|
10,857
|
3,596
|
5,296
|
36,000
|
77,038
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Yermek Kudabayev
|
2007
|
35,713
|
27,240
|
2,244
|
7,296
|
-0-
|
72,493
|
|
2006
|
22,175
|
10,087
|
3,947
|
4,346
|
-0-
|
40,555
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dossan Kassumkhanuly
|
2007
|
10,645
|
9,089
|
2,244
|
7,094
|
24,339
|
53,411
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nurlan Tajibayev
|
2007
|
7,068
|
7,189
|
1,247
|
7,296
|
-0-
|
22,800
|
|
2006
|
5,854
|
4,663
|
1,637
|
3,803
|
-0-
|
15,957
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Aleksandr Rassokhin
|
2007
|
7,401
|
7,422
|
1,247
|
7,296
|
-0-
|
23,366
|
|
2006
|
4,309
|
2,384
|
861
|
2,173
|
-0-
|
9,728
|
Annual Base Salary
The following table discloses the annual salary set forth in the
employment agreement of each of the individual named executive officers for fiscal
2008.
Name
|
|
Annual
Salary
(1)
|
|
|
|
Yermek
Kudabayev
|
|
$180,000
|
Zhassulan
Bitenov
|
|
$108,000
|
Dossan
Kassymkhanuly
|
|
$120,000
|
Nurlan
Tajibayev
|
|
$ 60,000
|
Aleksandr
Rassokin
|
|
$ 60,000
|
(1)
|
Annual salary is net of all taxes and dues required
under applicable laws of the Republic of Kazakhstan, which is the
responsibility of the Company.
|
57
As discussed above, our employment agreements provide for an annual
salary. Base salary may be increased from time to time with the approval of the board
of directors. Base salary may not be decreased without the written consent of the named
executive officer. The agreements provide for statutory requirements related to the
rights of employees, base salary, payment of income and social taxes and pension fund
obligations.
Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table for Fiscal Year 2007
No grants of any plan-based awards were made to any of the named
executive officers during the 2007 fiscal year.
Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year End 2007
None of the named executive officers held unexercised stock options at
December 31, 2007. The following table sets forth information concerning all unvested
restricted stock grants and equity incentive plan awards for each of the named
executive officers as of December 31, 2007.
|
Stock Awards
|
Name
|
Equity Incentive Plan Awards:
Number of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That
Have Not
Vested (#)
|
Equity Incentive Plan Awards:
Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or
Other Rights That Have
Not Vested
($)
|
|
|
|
Yermek Kudabayev
(1)
|
287,572
(2)
|
575,144
(3)
|
Marat Cherdabayev
(1)
|
-0-
(4)
|
-0-
|
Zhassulan Bitenov
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
Dossan Kassymkhanuly
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
Nurlan Tajibayev
(1)
|
143,786
(5)
|
287,572
(3)
|
Aleksandr Rassokhin
(1)
|
64,655
(6)
|
129,310
(3)
|
(1)
|
On October 20, 2006, our board of directors awarded
restricted stock grants to the following individuals in the following
amounts: i) Yermek Kudabayev – 383,429 shares; ii) Marat
Cherdabayev – 421,772 shares; iii) Nurlan Tajibayev –
191,715 shares; and iv) Aleksandr Rassokhin – 86,207 shares.
These restricted stock grants were made under the Company’s 2003
Stock Option Plan made under the Company’s 2003 Stock Option
Plan. Vesting of the awards was to occur over a period of three years
and is contingent upon performance based metrics as described in more
detail below. Any unvested shares at the time such individual’s
employment with the Company ceases, for any reason, shall be forfeited
back to the Company. All shares underlying the awards were issued at
the time of grant and are being held in escrow by the Company subject
to the vesting schedule placed on the grant. The grant holders have the
right to vote the shares, receive dividends and enjoy all other rights
of ownership over the entire grant amount, except for the right to
dispose of or otherwise encumber the shares prior to satisfying the
applicable vesting requirement.
|
(2)
|
Mr. Kudabayev’s restricted stock award vests as
follows: 95,857 shares vested in April 2007; 95,857 shares vest in
April 2008 and the final 191,715 shares will vest in April 2009
provided that the Company timely files its reports with U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission during each year. Subsequent to the year end,
in March 2008 the board of directors voted to increase Mr.
Kudabayev’s restricted stock grant to an aggregate of 421,772
shares, with the additional shares vesting 50% in April 2008 and 50% in
April 2009.
|
(3)
|
The market value of the unearned shares is computed by
multiplying the closing market price of the Company’s stock at
the end of the last completed fiscal year ($2.00 per share) by the
number of unearned shares that have not vested.
|
58
(4)
|
In June 2007 Mr. Cherdabayev resigned as an officer and
director of the Company prior to the vesting of any of his restricted
stock grants. In accordance with the terms of his restricted stock
grant, the entire grant was forfeited back to the Company upon his
resignation.
|
(5)
|
Mr. Tajibayev’s restricted stock award vests as
follows: 47,929 shares vested in October 2007; 47,929 shares will vest
in October 2008 provided that the Company begins construction of a
processing plant by October 2007 and the final 95,857 shares will vest
in October 2009 provided that the Company has commenced commercial
operations by October 2009.
|
(6)
|
Mr. Rassokhin’s restricted stock award vests as
follows: 21,552 shares vested in October 2007; 21,552 shares will vest
in October 2008 and the final 43,103 shares will vest in October 2009
provided that each year the Company timely completes the annual
drilling requirements associated with its annual work program and that
the Company has commenced commercial operations by October
2009.
|
Option Exercises and Stock Vested for Fiscal Year 2007
None of the named executive officers exercised options during the 2007
fiscal year. The following table sets forth the number of restricted stock awards that
vested to our named executive officer during fiscal 2007 and the aggregate dollar
amount realized by our named executive officer on vesting.
|
Stock Awards
|
Name
|
Number of Shares
Acquired on Vesting (#)
|
Value Realized on Vesting ($)
|
Yermek Kudabayev
|
95,857
(1)
|
164,874
(2)
|
Marat Cherdabayev
|
-0-
(3)
|
-0-
|
Zhassulan Bitenov
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
Dossan Kassymkhanuly
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
Nurlan Tajibayev
|
47,929
(4)
|
50,325
(2)
|
Aleksandr Rassokhin
|
21,552
(5)
|
22,630
(2)
|
(1)
|
As noted above, 95,857 shares of the restricted stock
grant awarded to Mr. Kudabayev on October 20, 2006 vested on April 7,
2007.
|
(2)
|
The value realized on vesting is computed by multiplying
the number of shares of stock by the market value of the underlying
shares on the vesting date. The closing market price of our common
stock on April 7, 2007 was $1.72 per share. The market price of our
common stock on October 20, 2007 was $1.05 per share.
|
(3)
|
As noted above, Mr. Cherdabayev resigned as his
positions and an officer of the Company prior to the vesting of any
portion of his restricted stock grant. Therefore, his entire restricted
stock grant reverted back to the Company.
|
(4)
|
As noted above, 47,929 shares of the restricted stock
grant awarded to Mr. Tajibayev on October 20, 2006 vested on October
20, 2007.
|
(5)
|
As noted above, 21,552 shares of the restricted stock
grant awarded to Mr. Rassokhin on October 20, 2006 vested on October
20, 2007.
|
Pension Benefits
In accordance with the legislative requirements of the Republic of
Kazakhstan during 2007 we paid government mandated pension fund payments for each of
the named executive officers, excluding Mr. Bitenov who did not commence employment
with the Company until January 2008. We do not have any other liabilities related to
any supplementary pensions, post retirement health care, insurance benefits or
retirement indemnities for any of the named executive officers.
We offer no pension or other specified retirement payments or benefits,
including but not limited to tax-qualified deferred benefit plans and supplemental
executive retirement plans to its named executive officers.
59
Nonqualified Deferred Compensation
We offer no defined contribution or other plan that provide for the
deferral of compensation on a basis that is not tax-qualified to any of our employees
including the named executive officers.
Potential Payments upon Termination or
Change-in-Control
|
Termination of Employment
Agreements
|
With the exception of the employment agreements of Mr. Kudabayev and Mr.
Bitenov, none of the other named executive officers employment agreements provide for
potential payments upon the termination of their employment.
Should the Company terminate the employment agreements of Mr. Kudabayev
or Mr. Bitenov for good reason, they shall be entitled to salary for the month in which
he is terminated and for the succeeding three calendar months. An additional month will
be added up to a maximum of twelve months for each year of completed service beginning
after two full years of service. This amount may be reduced in the event Mr. Kudabayev
or Mr. Bitenov obtains new employment prior to the completion of the payment period. If
he is terminated for cause he shall only be entitled to compensation through the date
of termination. If he is terminated for disability he shall be compensated for the
remainder of the month and for three succeeding months or until disability insurance
benefits commence. If employment is terminated because of death he shall be entitled to
compensation through the end of the calendar month in which his death occurs. The
phrase “for good reason” means any of the following: (a) the
Company’s material breach of the employment agreement; (b) the assignment of
the Executive without his consent to a position, responsibilities, or duties of a
materially lesser status or degree of responsibility than his position,
responsibilities, or duties; or (c) the relocation of the Company’s
principal executive offices outside the Kazakhstan area; or (d) the requirement by
the Company that the Executive be based anywhere other than the Company’s
principal executive offices, in either case without the Executive’s
consent.
None of the employment agreements of our named executive officers
provide for potential payouts or other change in control benefits.
Compensation of Directors
We offer cash compensation to attract and retain candidates to serve on
our board of directors. We do not compensate directors who are also our employees for
their service on our board of directors. Therefore, Mr. Kudabayev, Mr. Kassymkhanuly
and Mr. Tajibaev did not receive any compensation for their service on our board of
directors.
60
Meeting
Fees
Members of the board of directors who are not also employees of the
Company or one of its subsidiaries are paid a $16,000 stipend per year, payable
quarterly. Non-employee directors are also paid $1,000 for each board meeting attended
in person plus reimbursement for travel expenses.
We do not currently have a fixed plan for the award of equity
compensation to our non-employee directors.
Director Compensation Table
The following table sets forth a summary of the compensation we paid to
our directors for services on our board during our 2007 fiscal year.
Name
|
Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash ($)
|
All Other
Compensation ($)
|
Total ($)
|
|
|
|
|
Timothy Adair
|
$16,000
|
$500
(1)
|
$16,500
|
James Kohler
|
$16,000
|
$500
(1)
|
$16,500
|
Valery Tolkachev
|
$16,000
|
-0-
|
$16,000
|
Nurlan Tajibaev
(1)
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
Yermek Kudabayev
(1)
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
Dossan Kassymkhanuly
(1)
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
-0-
|
(1)
|
Represents compensation for in person attendance at
board meetings held in Almaty, Kazakhstan.
|
(2)
|
In addition to being directors Mr. Kudabayev, Mr.
Tajibaev and Mr. Kasymkhanuly are also Company employees, and therefore
do not qualify for compensation as non-employee directors.
|
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider
Participation
We do not currently have a standing Compensation Committee, rather our
entire board of directors participates in deliberations concerning executive officer
compensation. Yermek Kudabayev, Dossan Kassymkhanuly and Nurlan Tajibaev, members of
our board of directors, are currently or have previously been officers of the Company
or one or more of its subsidiaries.
Board of Directors Report
The board of directors has reviewed and discussed the Compensation
Discussion and Analysis required by Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K with management
and, based on such review and discussions, the board of directors recommended that this
Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this Annual Report on Form
10-K.
|
BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
|
|
Yermek Kudabayev
|
Dossan Kassymkhanuly
|
Nurlan Tajibaev
|
Timothy Adair
|
James Kohler
|
Valery Tolkachev
|
61
Item 12.
|
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and
Managment and
Related Stockholder Matters
|
The term “beneficial owner” refers to both the power of
investment and the right to buy and sell our shares. It also refers to rights of
ownership or the right to receive distributions from the Company and proceeds from the
sale of our shares. Since these rights may be held or shared by more than one person,
each person who has a beneficial ownership interest in shares is deemed to be the
beneficial owner of the same shares because there is shared power of investment or
shared rights of ownership.
The following table sets forth as of April 7, 2008 the name and the
number of shares of our common stock, par value of $0.001 per share, held of record or
beneficially by each person who held of record, or was known by us to own beneficially,
more than 5% of the 125,172,011 issued and outstanding shares of our common stock, and
the name and shareholdings of each director and of all officers and directors as
group.
Type of Security
|
Name and Address
|
Amount & Nature of Beneficial
Ownership
|
% of Class
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Hsuih Chi Hun
(1)
|
36,306,120
|
29%
|
|
1/F., Chap Biu Building
|
|
|
|
Tai Po Market, 15 On Fu Road
|
|
|
|
New Territories, Hong Kong, S.A.R.
|
|
|
|
China
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Brisa Equities Corporation
(1)
|
21,000,000
|
17%
|
|
1020 East 900 South
|
|
|
|
Bountiful, Utah 84010
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Central Asian Metals, Inc.
(2)
|
15,504,408
|
12%
|
|
P.O. Box 5251
|
|
|
|
CH 6901
|
|
|
|
Lugano, Switzerland
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
GLG Emerging Markets Fund
(3)
|
28,000,000
|
21%
|
|
c/o GLG Partnership
|
|
|
|
One Curzon Street
|
|
|
|
London W1J 5HB
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Jamestown Financial, Inc.
(4)
|
21,093,880
|
17%
|
|
Akara Building, 24 de Castro St.
|
|
|
|
Wickhams Cay I, PO Box 36
|
|
|
|
Road Town, Tortola, BVI
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Yermek Kudabayev
(5) (6)
|
421,772
|
*
|
|
170 Tchaikovsky Street
|
|
|
|
4
th
Floor
|
|
|
|
Almaty, Kazakhstan 050000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Zhassulan Bitenov
(5) (6)
|
383,429
|
*
|
|
170 Tchaikovsky Street
|
|
|
|
4
th
Floor
|
|
|
|
Almaty, Kazakhstan 050000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Nurlan Tajibaev
(5) (6)
|
191,715
|
*
|
|
170 Tchaikovsky Street
|
|
|
|
4
th
Floor
|
|
|
|
Almaty, Kazakhstan 050000
|
|
|
62
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Dossan Kassymkhanuly
(6)
|
-0-
|
*
|
|
170 Tchaikovsky Street
|
|
|
|
4
th
Floor
|
|
|
|
Almaty, Kazakhstan 050000
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
James Kohler
(6)
|
-0-
|
*
|
|
2011 Maple View Drive
|
|
|
|
Bountiful, Utah 84101
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Timothy Adair
(6)
|
-0-
|
*
|
|
5062 W. Amelia Earhart Drive
|
|
|
|
Salt Lake City, Utah 84116
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Common
|
Valery Tolkachev
(6)
|
-0-
|
*
|
|
27 Pokrovka St., Bldg.6
|
|
|
|
Moscow, Russia 105062
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Officers, Directors and Nominees
|
996,376
|
*
|
as a Group: (7 persons)
|
|
|
* Less
than 1%.
(1)
|
Mr. Hsuih Chi Hun owns no shares in his own name.
However, he maintains voting and investment control over 21,000,000
shares held of record by Brisa Equities, Inc., as well as 5,110,200
shares held of record by Landsgate Marketing Limited, 5,097,960 shares
held of record by Comodidad y Fantasia en Tierra, S.A. and 5,097,960
shares held of record by Las Tierras del Deleite, S.A., and therefore
may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of the shares held by these
entities.
|
(2)
|
Brilliance Investments Ltd., as trustee, maintains the
voting and investment control over the 15,504,408 shares held of record
by Central Asian Metals, Inc., and therefore, may be deemed to be the
beneficial owner of the shares held by that entity.
|
(3)
|
Includes 21,000,000 shares held of record and an
immediately exercisable warrant to purchase up to an additional
7,000,000 common shares at a price of $2.00 per share.
|
(4)
|
Jamestown Financial, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Stockton Properties Ltd. As the parent company of Jamestown
Financial, Inc., Stockton Properties Ltd. may be deemed to have voting
and investment power over the shares held of record by Jamestown
Financial and therefore may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of the
shares held by that entity.
|
(5)
|
On October 20, 2006 our board of directors awarded a
restricted stock grant to Mr. Kudabayev in the amount of 383,429 shares
and to Mr. Tajibaev in the amount of 191,715 shares. On March 25, 2008
the board of directors increased Mr. Kudabayev’s restricted stock
grant by an additional 38,343 shares and awarded a restricted stock
grant to Mr. Bitenov. As of the date of this report 210,886 shares of
Mr. Kudabayev award had vested, 47,929 shares of Mr. Tajibaev’s
award had vested and none of Mr. Bitenov’s award had vested. The
awards vest over a period of three years. The shares have been issued
and are outstanding and are being held in escrow by the Company subject
to the applicable vesting schedule for each grant. The grantees have
the right to vote the shares, receive dividends and enjoy all other
rights of ownership over the entire grant amount from the grant date,
except for investment control of the shares, which will not pass to
these individuals until the shares vest. Shares will vest to the
grantee only if the grantee is employed by the Company on the
applicable vesting date. Any unvested shares at the time a
grantee’s employment with the Company ceases, for any reason,
shall be forfeited back to the Company. For additional information
regarding vesting dates and conditions see the section entitled
“
Securities Authorized for Issuance
Under Equity Compensation Plans
”
contained in Item 5. “
Market for Common
Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Small Business Issuer Purchases
of Equity Securities”
of this
report.
|
(6)
|
Mr. Kudabayev, Mr. Bitenov, Mr. Tajibaev and Mr.
Kassymkhanuly are officers of the Company. Mr. Kudabayev, Mr. Tajibaev,
Mr. Kassymkhanuly, Mr. Kohler, Mr. Adair and Mr. Tolkachev are
directors of the Company.
|
63
Change in Control
To the knowledge of the management, there are no present arrangements or
pledges of our securities that may result in a change in control of the
Company.
Item 13.
|
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and
Director Independence
|
Certain Relationships and Related Transactions
The Company did not engage in any transaction during the past fiscal
year that involved an amount in excess of $120,000 or 1% of our average total assets in
which any related party had a direct or indirect material interest.
Director Independence
Our board of directors has determined that the following directors are
“independent directors” as defined in Section 121 of the American Stock
Exchange Company Guide: Timothy Adair, James Kohler and Valery Tolkachev. Such
independence definition includes a series of objective tests, including that the
director is not an employee of the Company and has not engaged in various types of
business dealings with the Company. In addition, as further required by the American
Stock Exchange listing standards, the board of directors has made a subjective
determination as to each independent director that no relationships exist which, in the
opinion of the board of directors, would interfere with the exercise of independent
judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director.
Item 14.
|
Principal Accountant Fees and Services
|
Hansen, Barnett and Maxwell, P.C. served as the Company’s
independent registered public accounting firm for the years ended December 31, 2007 and
2006 and is expected to serve in that capacity for the current year. Principal
accounting fees for professional services rendered for us by Hansen, Barnett &
Maxwell, P.C. for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, are summarized as
follows:
|
2007
|
2006
|
Audit
|
$133,735
|
$86,074
|
Tax
|
2,595
|
2,000
|
All other
|
-
|
-
|
Total
|
$136,330
|
$88,074
|
Audit Fees
. Audit fees were for
professional services rendered in connection with the Company’s annual financial
statement audits and quarterly reviews of financial statements for filing with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
Tax Fees
. Tax fees related to services for
tax compliance and consulting.
Board of Directors Pre-Approval Policies and
Procedures
. At its regularly scheduled and special meetings,
the Board of Directors, in lieu of an established audit committee, considers and
pre-approves any audit and non-audit services to be performed by our independent
registered public accounting firm. The Board of Directors has the authority to grant
pre-approvals of non-audit services.
64
Item 15.
|
Exhibits and Financial Statement
Schedules
|
|
The following exhibits are included as part of this
report:
|
Exhibit 21.1
|
List of Subsidiaries
|
|
|
Exhibit 31.1
|
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
|
Exhibit 31.2
|
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to
Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
|
Exhibit 32.1
|
Certification of Principal Executive Officer Pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
|
|
Exhibit 32.2
|
Certification of Principal Financial Officer Pursuant to
Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
|
65
SIGNATURES
In accordance with Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
the registrant caused this report to be signed on its behalf, thereunto duly
authorized.
BEKEM METALS, INC.
Date: April 14, 2008
|
/s/ Yermek Kudabayev
|
|
|
Yermek Kudabayev
|
|
Chief Executive Officer
|
Date: April 14, 2008
|
/s/ Zhassulan Bitenov
|
|
|
Zhassulan Bitenov
|
|
Chief Financial Officer
|
Date: April 14, 2008
|
/s/ James Kohler
|
|
|
James Kohler
|
|
Director
|
Date: April 14, 2008
|
/s/ Timothy Adair
|
|
|
Timothy Adair
|
|
Director
|
Date: April 14, 2008
|
/s/ Nurlan Tajibayev
|
|
|
Nurlan Tajibayev
|
|
Director
|
Date: April 14, 2008
|
/s/ Dossan Kassymkhanuly
|
|
|
Dossan Kassymkhanuly
|
|
Director
|
Date: April 14, 2008
|
/s/ Valery Tolkachev
|
|
|
Valery Tolkachev
|
|
Director
|
66
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(An Exploration Stage Company)
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING
FIRM
AND
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
December 31, 2007 and 2006
H
ANSEN,
B
ARNETT
&
M
AXWELL, P.C.
A
Professional Corporation
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
(An Exploration Stage Company)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
|
|
Page
|
|
|
|
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting
Firm
|
F-2
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Financial Statements:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Balance Sheets – December 31, 2007
and 2006
|
F-3
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years
ended
|
F-4
|
|
December 31, 2007 and 2006, and for the period from
March 5,
|
|
|
2004 (Date of Inception) through December 31,
2007
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
for the years ended
|
F-5
|
|
December 31, 2007 and 2006, and for the period from
March 5,
|
|
|
2004 (Date of Inception) through December 31,
2007
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years
ended
|
F-6
|
|
December 31, 2007 and 2006, and for the period from
March 5,
|
|
|
2004 (Date of Inception) through December 31,
2007
|
|
|
|
|
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
|
F-7
|
F-1
Hansen, Barnett & Maxwell,
P.C.
|
|
Registered with the Public Company
|
A Professional Corporation
|
|
Accounting Oversight Board
|
CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
|
|
|
AND
|
|
An independent member of
|
BUSINESS CONSULTANTS
|
|
BAKER TILLY
|
5 Triad Center, Suite 750
|
|
INTERNATIONAL
|
Salt Lake City, UT 84180-1128
|
|
|
Phone: (801) 532-2200
|
|
|
Fax: (801) 532-7944
|
|
|
www.hbmcpas.com
|
|
|
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING
FIRM
To the
Board of Directors and the Shareholders
Bekem
Metals, Inc. and Subsidiaries
We
have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Bekem Metals, Inc. and
Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the related consolidated statements
of operations, shareholders’ equity (deficit), and cash flows for the years ended
December 31, 2007 and 2006, and for the period from March 5, 2004 (Date of Inception)
through December 31, 2007. These financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits.
We
conducted our audits 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 the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. The company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to
perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included
consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing
audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of
expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the company's internal control over
financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the
financial statements, 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 financial position of Bekem Metals, Inc. and Subsidiaries as
of December 31, 2007 and 2006, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for
the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, and for the period from March 5, 2004 (Date
of Inception) through December 31, 2007 in conformity with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles.
The
accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the
Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial
statements, the Company’s limited operating history, operating losses and
negative cash flows from operations, and dependence upon debt or equity infusions to
meet its work program requirements under certain government mineral licenses, raise
substantial doubt about its ability to continue as a going concern. Management’s
plans regarding those matters are also described in Note 1. The financial statements do
not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this
uncertainty.
Salt
Lake City, Utah
April 12, 2008
F-2
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
|
|
|
|
|
|
December 31,
|
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
ASSETS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current Assets
|
|
|
|
|
Cash
|
|
$ 756,943
|
|
$ 8,583,680
|
Trade accounts receivable
|
|
4,048
|
|
2,776
|
VAT recoverable
|
|
269,087
|
|
186,915
|
Inventories
|
|
287,240
|
|
185,063
|
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
|
|
118,847
|
|
139,293
|
Deferred compensation
|
|
483,766
|
|
757,920
|
Total Current Assets
|
|
1,919,931
|
|
9,855,647
|
|
|
|
|
|
Property, plant and mineral interests (net of
accumulated
|
|
|
|
|
depreciation of $416,773 and $144,030)
|
|
14,226,359
|
|
13,870,563
|
Non-current deferred compensation
|
|
225,351
|
|
1,202,587
|
Other assets
|
|
78,996
|
|
169,130
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets
|
|
$ 16,450,637
|
|
$ 25,097,927
|
|
|
|
|
|
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current Liabilities
|
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable
|
|
$ 423,776
|
|
$ 530,665
|
Accrued expenses
|
|
237,142
|
|
274,739
|
Advances received
|
|
257,689
|
|
-
|
Due to related party
|
|
791
|
|
9,644
|
Total Current Liabilities
|
|
919,398
|
|
815,048
|
|
|
|
|
|
Deferred tax liabilities
|
|
-
|
|
433,645
|
Asset retirement obligation
|
|
1,039,048
|
|
951,355
|
Total Liabilities
|
|
1,958,446
|
|
2,200,048
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commitments and Contingencies
|
|
-
|
|
-
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shareholders' Equity
|
|
|
|
|
Preferred stock; $0.001 par value, 20,000,000
shares
|
|
|
|
|
authorized, no shares outstanding
|
|
-
|
|
-
|
Common stock; $0.001 par value, 150,000,000 shares
authorized,
|
|
|
|
|
and 124,750,239 and 125,172,011 shares issued and
outstanding
|
|
124,750
|
|
125,172
|
Additional paid-in capital
|
|
28,203,239
|
|
29,025,272
|
Accumulated deficit
|
|
(14,923,899)
|
|
(6,222,349)
|
Accumulated other comprehensive gain (loss)
|
|
1,088,101
|
|
(30,216)
|
Total Shareholders' Equity
|
|
14,492,191
|
|
22,897,879
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Liabilities and Shareholders'
Equity
|
|
$ 16,450,637
|
|
$ 25,097,927
|
The
accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-3
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Period from
|
|
|
|
March 5, 2004
|
|
For the Years Ended
|
(Date of Inception)
|
|
December 31,
|
through
|
|
2007
|
2006
|
December 31, 2007
|
|
|
|
|
Revenue
|
$ -
|
$ -
|
$ -
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Expenses
|
|
|
|
General and administrative expenses
|
4,268,793
|
3,136,715
|
8,523,165
|
Research and development costs
|
296,070
|
389,507
|
1,088,238
|
Exploratory costs
|
4,186,235
|
1,470,247
|
6,353,978
|
Accretion expense on asset retirement
obligations
|
79,288
|
72,865
|
212,785
|
Grant compensation expense
|
428,935
|
151,583
|
580,518
|
|
|
|
|
Total Operating Expenses
|
9,259,321
|
5,220,917
|
16,758,684
|
|
|
|
|
Loss From Operations
|
(9,259,321)
|
(5,220,917)
|
(16,758,684)
|
|
|
|
|
Other Income (Expense)
|
|
|
|
Interest income
|
324,976
|
85,337
|
410,313
|
Other income
|
97,391
|
2,371
|
119,252
|
Interest expense
|
(1,018)
|
(1,382,972)
|
(1,677,441)
|
Translation adjustment
|
(255,752)
|
(32,572)
|
(250,134)
|
Exchange loss
|
(64,280)
|
(174,278)
|
(299,014)
|
|
|
|
|
Net Other Expense
|
101,317
|
(1,502,114)
|
(1,697,024)
|
|
|
|
|
Net Loss Before Minority Interest and
Taxes
|
(9,158,004)
|
(6,723,031)
|
(18,455,708)
|
Deferred tax benefit
|
456,454
|
2,016,909
|
3,390,601
|
Loss attributed to minority interest
|
-
|
-
|
141,208
|
|
|
|
|
Net Loss
|
$ (8,701,550)
|
$ (4,706,122)
|
$ (14,923,899)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Basic Loss per Common Share
|
$ (0.07)
|
$
(0.04)
|
|
Weighted-Average Shares used in
|
|
|
|
Basic Loss per Common Share
|
124,958,236
|
111,480,627
|
|
The
accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-4
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
(DEFICIT)
|
FOR THE PERIOD FROM MARCH 5, 2004 (DATE OF
INCEPTION)
|
THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2007
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accumulated
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Other
|
|
Total
|
|
Common Shares
|
Additional
|
Comprehensive
|
Accumulated
|
Shareholders'
|
|
Shares
|
Amount
|
Paid-in Capital
|
Gain (Loss)
|
Deficit
|
Equity (Deficit)
|
Balance - March 5, 2004
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Date of inception)
|
|
$ -
|
$ -
|
$ -
|
$ -
|
$ -
|
Shares issued for cash, August 12, 2004
|
8,400,000
|
8,400
|
174,274
|
-
|
-
|
182,674
|
Shares issued for 60% interest in
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Kaznickel, November 19, 2004,
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$0.02 per share
|
12,600,000
|
12,600
|
(12,600)
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
Net loss for period
|
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
(245,090)
|
(245,090)
|
Balance, December 31, 2004
|
21,000,000
|
$ 21,000
|
$ 161,674
|
$ -
|
$ (245,090)
|
$ (62,416)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net loss for period
|
|
|
|
|
(1,271,137)
|
(1,271,137)
|
Cumulative translation adjustment
|
|
|
|
(17,293)
|
|
(17,293)
|
Comprehensive Loss
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ (1,350,846)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Minority interest shares issued in
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
acquisition of EMPS Research
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Corporation, January 24, 2005
|
-
|
-
|
(11,706)
|
-
|
-
|
(11,706)
|
Shares issued for cash, August 8, 2005
|
61,200,000
|
61,200
|
38,800
|
-
|
-
|
100,000
|
Shares issued for the acquisition of
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
the minority interests of Bekem Metals,
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Inc., October 24, 2005
|
17,888,888
|
17,889
|
327,111
|
-
|
-
|
345,000
|
Balance, December 31, 2005
|
100,088,888
|
$ 100,089
|
$ 515,879
|
$ (17,293)
|
$ (1,516,227)
|
$ (917,552)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net loss for period
|
|
|
|
|
(4,706,122)
|
(4,706,122)
|
Cumulative translation adjustment
|
|
|
|
(12,923)
|
|
(12,923)
|
Comprehensive Loss
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ (5,636,597)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares issued for cash, July 14, 2006 -
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
net of fees of 1,577,614
|
24,000,000
|
24,000
|
26,398,386
|
-
|
-
|
26,422,386
|
Issue of Stock grants at 1.95 per share on
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
October 20, 2006
|
1,083,123
|
1,083
|
2,111,007
|
-
|
-
|
2,112,090
|
Balance, December 31, 2006
|
125,172,011
|
$ 125,172
|
$ 29,025,272
|
$ (30,216)
|
$ (6,222,349)
|
$ 22,897,879
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net loss for period
|
|
|
|
|
(8,701,550)
|
(8,701,550)
|
Cumulative translation adjustment
|
|
|
|
1,118,317
|
|
1,118,317
|
Comprehensive Loss
|
|
|
|
|
|
$ 15,314,646
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares resigned, June 30, 2007
|
(421,772)
|
(422)
|
(822,033)
|
-
|
-
|
(822,455)
|
Balance, December 31, 2007
|
124,750,239
|
$ 124,750
|
$ 28,203,239
|
$ 1,088,101
|
$ (14,923,899)
|
$ 14,492,191
|
The
accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-5
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Period from
|
|
|
|
|
|
March 5, 2004
|
|
|
For the Years Ended
|
(Date of Inception)
|
|
|
December 31,
|
through
|
|
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
December 31, 2007
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net loss
|
|
$ (8,701,550)
|
|
$ (4,706,122)
|
$ (14,923,899)
|
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to
|
|
|
|
|
|
net cash provided by operating activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
Depreciation and amortization
|
|
318,660
|
|
117,502
|
485,793
|
Accretion expense on asset retirement
obligations
|
|
79,288
|
|
72,865
|
228,854
|
Interest expense from debt discount
|
|
-
|
|
855,970
|
963,231
|
Shares issued on option modification
|
|
-
|
|
-
|
19,426
|
Deferred tax benefit
|
|
(456,454)
|
|
(2,016,909)
|
(3,390,601)
|
Foreign currency exchange loss (gain) and translation
adjustment
|
|
398,461
|
|
(142,795)
|
195,210
|
Purchased exploration costs
|
|
-
|
|
-
|
251,286
|
Impairment loss on property, plant and
equipment
|
|
1,043,720
|
|
-
|
1,043,720
|
Stock grant compensation expense
|
|
428,935
|
|
151,583
|
580,518
|
Loss on disposal of property and equipment
|
|
8,801
|
|
58,928
|
67,729
|
Loss recognized on minority shareholders'
interest
|
|
-
|
|
-
|
(141,208)
|
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
|
|
|
|
|
-
|
Trade accounts receivable
|
|
(1,165)
|
|
16,983
|
7,803
|
Inventories
|
|
(90,403)
|
|
47,985
|
(12,019)
|
VAT recoverable
|
|
(73,065)
|
|
(122,498)
|
(195,563)
|
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
|
|
(27,031)
|
|
(29,040)
|
53,948
|
Accounts payable
|
|
(116,060)
|
|
88,129
|
105,907
|
Accrued expenses
|
|
34,675
|
|
(9,976)
|
(52,535)
|
Advances received
|
|
252,958
|
|
-
|
252,958
|
Net Cash From Operating Activities
|
|
(6,900,230)
|
|
(5,617,395)
|
(14,459,442)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
|
|
|
|
|
|
Purchase of property and equipment
|
|
(1,056,041)
|
|
(2,577,696)
|
(3,674,478)
|
Purchase of intangible assets
|
|
(7,613)
|
|
(57,480)
|
(65,093)
|
Proceeds from disposal of property and
equipment
|
|
10,608
|
|
22,941
|
33,549
|
Restricted cash
|
|
100,000
|
|
(100,000)
|
-
|
Notes receivable
|
|
-
|
|
(56,983)
|
(56,983)
|
Change in related party receivables /
payables
|
|
-
|
|
46,930
|
(152,180)
|
Cash acquired in acquisitions
|
|
-
|
|
-
|
50,475
|
Net Cash From Investing Activities
|
|
(953,046)
|
|
(2,722,288)
|
(3,864,710)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
|
|
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from notes payable
|
|
-
|
|
1,996,731
|
14,706,914
|
Payments on notes payable
|
|
-
|
|
(7,870,993)
|
(22,745,753)
|
Proceeds from notes payable - related parties
|
|
-
|
|
251,900
|
4,326,912
|
Payments on notes payable - related parties
|
|
-
|
|
(4,326,912)
|
(4,326,912)
|
Issuance of shares for cash
|
|
-
|
|
26,422,386
|
26,728,842
|
Net Cash From Financing Activities
|
|
-
|
|
16,473,112
|
18,690,003
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Effect of Exchange Rate Changes on
Cash
|
|
26,539
|
|
360,885
|
391,092
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash
|
|
(7,826,737)
|
|
8,494,314
|
756,943
|
Cash at Beginning of Period
|
|
8,583,680
|
|
89,366
|
-
|
Cash at End of Period
|
|
$ 756,943
|
|
$ 8,583,680
|
$ 756,943
|
The
accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F-6
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
NOTE 1 – BASIS OF PRESENTATION, NATURE OF BUSINESS, AND
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Basis of Presentation
The
accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Bekem Metals,
Inc. (“BMI”, “Bekem” or the “Company”) and its
wholly owned subsidiaries Kazakh Metals, Inc. (“KMI”), Kyzyl Kain Mamyt LLP
(“KKM”), Condesa Pacific, S.A. (“Condesa”) and Kaznickel, LLP
(“Kaznickel”). Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated
in consolidation. The results of operations of the previously separate KMI and BMI were
combined for all periods prior to the acquisition (as further explained below), with
recognition of the minority interest in BMI, and the operations of BMI and KMI are
consolidated from October 24, 2005.
On
October 24, 2005, Bekem Metals, Inc. entered into an Acquisition Agreement with Kazakh
Metals, Inc., a British Virgin Islands international business company, under which BMI
acquired 100% of the outstanding common shares of KMI in exchange for the issuance of
61,200,000 common shares.
The
KMI shareholders received 61.1% of the BMI common stock outstanding after the
transaction and therefore KMI was considered the acquirer for financial reporting
purposes. Accordingly, the accompanying financial statements include financial
statements of KMI for all periods presented.
Brisa Equities Corporation, a British Virgin Islands holding company
(“Brisa”), together with other entities its owners control, was the
controlling shareholder of KMI and was also the controlling shareholder of BMI.
Accordingly, the transaction was considered to be between entities under common control
and did not result in a change in control of BMI. Following the transaction, entities
over which the controlling shareholder maintained voting and investment control held
51,600,000 BMI common shares, which represented 51.5% of the 100,088,888 outstanding
common shares.
The
acquisition of the portion of the net liabilities of BMI relating to the common shares
owned by the controlling shareholder was recorded at historical cost of ($161,998). The
acquisition of the common shares of BMI purchased from the minority shareholders of BMI
were recorded at $345,000, which was the estimated fair value of those shares on the
date of acquisition. KMI accounted for the purchase of BMI similar to a
pooling.
Bekem Metals, Inc.
– The
consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Condesa and Kaznickel, since
the date of its acquisition by Condesa, and the accounts of BMI since its acquisition
by Condesa. Condesa was incorporated under the laws of the British Virgin Islands on
March 5, 2004. Condesa acquired BMI in a reverse acquisition, on January 28, 2005. On
July 24, 2006, Condesa transferred its interest in Kaznickel to Bekem, making Kaznickel
a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bekem. On September 30, 2006, Bekem sold Condesa to a
third party for a nominal value. Condesa is included in the consolidated financial
statements from the date of acquisition to the date of disposal.
Kazakh Metals, Inc.
– The
consolidated financial statements also include the accounts of KMI and its wholly-owned
subsidiary, KKM, which it acquired on June 1, 2005, in a purchase business
combination.
Name Change
– On February 9,
2005, the Board of Directors of EMPS Research Corporation approved, and the
stockholders holding a majority of the outstanding shares of the company approved and
ratified by written consent, a change in the Company’s name from EMPS Research
Corporation to Bekem Metals, Inc. On March 16, 2005, the Company filed an amendment to
its Articles of Incorporation to affect the change.
F-7
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Currency Translation
– The
consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars. The functional
currency of the Company’s subsidiaries operating in Kazakhstan is U.S. dollars
for Kaznickel and Kazakh tenge for KKM. Results of operations are translated into U.S.
dollars at the average exchange rates during the reporting period. Non-monetary assets
and liabilities of Kaznickel are translated into U.S. dollars, using historical
exchange rates and monetary assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars
using exchange rates on the date of the financial statements. Translation differences
are included in results of operations. All balance sheet accounts of KKM are translated
at exchange rates on the date of the financial statements and translation differences
are included in stockholders’ equity as cumulative translation
adjustments.
Nature of Business
The
Company is engaged in the exploration of mineral resource properties. Kaznickel owns
the right to the Gornostayevskoye (“Gornostai”) nickel and cobalt deposit
located in the East Kazakhstan Oblast in northeast Kazakhstan. The license is for
exploration and production of cobalt and nickel ores and is valid through February 26,
2026 providing commercial discoveries are made before the end of the exploration
period.
In
January 2008, Kaznickel agreed with the Expert Committee of the Ministry of Energy and
Minerals Resources (“MEMR”) of the Republic of Kazakhstan to an extension
of the exploration period to February 2010. Currently, Kaznickel is in the process of
signing the addendum to the subsoil use contract to reflect these changes. Upon
discovery of commercially producible nickel and/or cobalt reserves, the Company may
notify the MEMR and convert from exploration stage to commercial production stage. If
the Company makes no commercial discoveries before the end of the exploration period,
as extended, the rights to the territory will revert back to the Republic of
Kazakhstan. Upon completion of exploration, the Company will return to the Republic of
Kazakhstan the rights to all areas within the licensed territory wherein no commercial
discoveries of nickel and/or cobalt were made. When the Company completes exploration
of the Gornostai deposit, assuming that commercial discoveries are made, the
Company will apply to the MEMR to move to commercial production.
KKM
holds exploration and production licenses from the government of Kazakhstan to a
575,756 acre parcel, located approximately 130 kilometers northwest of Aktobe,
Kazakhstan. This deposit is referred to as the Kempirsai deposit. The licenses grant
KKM the right to explore for and produce nickel and cobalt from deposits located within
the territory through October 12, 2011, which may be extended upon agreement between
KKM and the MEMR. KKM also holds a license to explore for and produce Mamyt brown coal
from a deposit located within 40 kilometers of its cobalt and nickel deposit. This
license expires on December 11, 2018 with further possible extensions. Because the
Company does not have a reserve estimate for its deposits that conforms to the
standards of Industry Guide 7 issued by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission,
its operations were considered to be at the exploratory stage for 2007 and
2006.
On
December 10, 2007, the MEMR unilaterally terminated KKM’s contracts and licenses
to explore for nickel, cobalt, brown coal, and other minerals within the Kempirsai and
the Mamyt deposits on the basis that KKM had material failures in execution of the work
programs associated with the contacts and licenses and did not detail those failures.
In January 2008, KKM filed an action in the Court of Astana city against the MEMR
challenging the legality of the unilateral termination of the KKM contracts and
licenses by the MEMR for several reasons, including that the contracts and licenses had
been terminated on grounds not provided for in the subsoil use contracts and
legislation and there were no material failures in the execution of the work programs
associated with the contracts and licenses. In February 2008, the Court of Astana city
acknowledged that the unilateral termination of the contracts and licenses by the MEMR
was illegitimate. The Court canceled the order of the MEMR relating to the unilateral
termination of the licenses and reinstated the KKM contracts and licenses. In March
2008, the MEMR appealed the decision of the Court of Astana city to the Republic of
Kazakhstan Supreme Court. The Company expects the Supreme Court to announce its final
decision by the end of April 2008.
F-8
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Business Condition
–The
Gornostai and the Kempirsai deposits have not yet entered the development stage with
respect to their mineral interests and have no production while the Company’s
mineral licenses contain certain work program requirements to be met which are expected
to require significant capital. The Company has realized only limited revenue from the
Kempirsai deposit and no revenue from the Gornostai deposit and has very little ability
to generate revenue. The Company does not expect this to change until it builds and
begins operating a nickel ore processing plant where the Company will need to raise
significant additional capital in order to maintain its current level of operations and
to fund construction of a processing. The Company
expects to be
totally dependent upon investment funds to support operations until such time as it
begins to generate sufficient revenue to fund operations. The Company expects these
funds will consist primarily of funds raised in equity and/or debt financing
activities.
The
Company has in the past been able to raise capital through the sale of equity
securities and continues to believe that investors will see the merits of its plans to
exploit its mineral licenses and will be able to raise capital. The Company currently
has no firm commitment from any party to provide additional equity or debt financing
and there is no guarantee that it will obtain additional financing on acceptable terms,
or at all. Certain shareholders of the Company have indicated a willingness to provide
the Company a line of credit to meet current operation needs, however, the Company has
no formal agreement with said shareholders to provide this line of credit and the
shareholders are under no obligation to enter into any agreement or make available any
funds to the Company. If the Company is unsuccessful in obtaining additional funding
during 2008, the Company will likely have insufficent funds to continue operations or
to meet its mineral license work program requirements. If the Company cannot fulfill
its work program requirement, the Company could be subjected to fines and
penalties and even to the possible forfeiture of its subsoil use contracts and
licenses.
In
March 2008, KKM has entered into a consortium agreement with two other Kazakhstani
companies who also have exploration and production licenses near the Company’s
Kempersai deposits in northwestern Kazakhstan, to develop and construct a nickel
processing plant in the area for joint use by the parties. KKM is considered to be the
operator of the consortium. In April 2008, one party to this agreement deposited
approximately $9,900,000 with the Company to be used toward the project.
Exploration Stage Company
The
Company is currently an exploration stage company. As an exploration stage enterprise,
the Company discloses the deficit accumulated during the exploration stage and the
cumulative statements of operations and cash flows from inception to the current
balance sheet date. The Company has incurred net losses of $14,923,899 and used net
cash in operations of $14,459,442 for the period from March 5, 2004 (date of inception)
through December 31, 2007. An entity remains in the exploration stage until such time
as proven or probable reserves have been established for its deposits.
Significant Accounting Policies
Use of Estimates
– The
preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in accordance with
accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the
financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ from those
estimates. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various
other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
Accordingly, actual results may differ significantly from these estimates under
different assumptions or conditions.
F-9
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Revenue Recognition
– Since
the Company is in the exploration stage, any incidental sales of ore and Mamyt brown
coal are recorded as a reduction of the exploratory costs. Income from such sales is
recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, title to product
transfers to the customer, and collectibility is reasonably assured.
Inventories
– Inventory
consists of materials and spare parts, miscellaneous goods, fuel and some raw
materials. Spare parts, goods and fuel are recorded at the lower cost or estimated
service value. The Company applies the weighted average method of inventory
costing.
Prepaid Expenses
– Prepaid
expenses relate to office rent, subscriptions, insurance and advance drilling costs.
Prepaid expenses are charged to operations in the period the related service or work is
performed.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and Long-Lived Assets to be
Disposed
– Long-lived assets are reviewed for
impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying
amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used
is measured by comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future net cash flows
expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired,
the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount that the carrying amount of
the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. Assets to be disposed of are reported
at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell. At December 31,
2007, the Company reviewed its long-lived assets as disclosed above and determined that
impairment losses incurred in 2007 amounted to $1,043,720. This impairment loss was
recognized in the 2007 financial statements (as exploratory costs). During 2006, the
Company realized losses from the impairment and disposal of property, plant and
equipment in the amount of $58,928.
Income taxes
– Income taxes
are calculated using the liability method of tax accounting. Under this method, future
income tax assets and liabilities are computed based on temporary differences between
the tax basis and carrying amount on the balance sheet for assets and liabilities.
Future income tax assets and liabilities are calculated using tax rates anticipated to
apply in the periods that the temporary differences are expected to reverse.
Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
– Costs incurred to develop new properties will be capitalized as
incurred, when it has been determined that the property can be economically developed
based on the existence of proven and probable reserves. All such costs will be
amortized using the units-of-production (“UOP”) method over the estimated
life of the ore body based on recoverable minerals to be mined from proven and probable
reserves.
Depreciation of equipment used in exploration activities is calculated
using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the assets and is
charged to exploratory costs.
Expenditures for new facilities or equipment and expenditures not
related to exploration activities and used for administrative and other operation
purposes or that extend the useful lives of existing facilities or equipment are
capitalized and depreciated using the straight-line method at rates sufficient to
depreciate such costs over the estimated future lives of such facilities or equipment.
These lives do not exceed the estimated mine life as the useful lives of these assets
are considered to be limited to the life of the relevant mine.
The
expected useful lives used in depreciation, depletion and amortization calculations are
determined based on applicable facts and circumstances, as described above. Significant
judgment is involved in the determination of useful lives, and no assurance can be
given that actual useful lives will not differ significantly from the useful lives
assumed for purpose of depreciation, depletion and amortization
calculations.
F-10
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
During 2007, the Company revised estimated useful lives applied to the
Kempirsai buildings and other fixed assets as follows:
|
Useful Lives (Years)
|
|
Old
|
|
New
|
Buildings
|
20-30
|
|
20
|
Other fixed assets
|
4-7
|
|
5-7
|
The
effect of the change in estimate was an increase in depreciation expenses by
approximately $67,000. This effect was recognized in the current statements of
operations as a change in estimate.
Mineral Property Rights
–
Mineral property acquisition costs, site restoration costs and development costs on
mineral properties with proven and probable reserves are capitalized and will be
depleted using the units-of-production method over the estimated life of the reserves.
If there are insufficient reserves to use as a basis for depleting such costs, they are
written off as mineral property or mineral interest impairment in the period in which
the determination is made. Site restoration costs are depleted over the term of their
expected life. Interest costs are capitalized on mineral properties and mineral
interests in development. The development potential of mining properties is established
by the existence of proven and probable reserves, reasonable assurance that the
property can be permitted as an operating mine and evidence that there are no
metallurgical or other impediments to the production of saleable metals.
Exploration costs incurred on mineral interests, other than acquisition
costs, prior to the establishment of proven and probable reserves are charged to
operations as incurred. Development costs incurred on mineral interests with proven and
probable reserves will be capitalized as mineral properties. The Company regularly
evaluates the investments in mineral interests to assess the recoverability and / or
the residual value of the investments in these assets. All mineral interests and
mineral properties are reviewed for impairment whenever events or circumstances change
which indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable, utilizing
established guidelines based upon undiscounted future net cash flows from the asset or
upon the determination that certain exploration properties do not have sufficient
potential for economic mineralization.
The
estimates of mineral prices and operating, capital and reclamation costs, when
available, are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, which may affect the
recoverability of mineral property costs. Although the Company makes its best estimates
of these factors, it is possible that changes could occur in the near term, which could
adversely affect the future net cash flows to be generated from the
properties.
Exploratory Costs –
since the
Company is deemed to be in the Exploration stage, all costs related to operating
activities are classified as Exploratory costs, which mainly consist of costs of
drilling exploration works at the Gornostai deposits, costs of blasting, stripping,
excavation and ore extracting works at the Kempirsai deposits, as well as salaries and
wages, depreciation charges and other expenses directly related to these
works.
Financial Instruments
– The
nature of the Company’s operation exposes the Company to fluctuations in
commodity prices and foreign currency exchange risk. The Company recognizes these risks
and manages its operation in a manner such that exposure to these risks is minimized to
the extent practical. The Company is not exposed to the credit risk fluctuations in
interest rates because certain of its loans are interest free, as a general requirement
under Kazakh law for non-financial institutions.
F-11
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Basic and Diluted Income (Loss) Per Share
– Basic income (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net
income (loss) by the weighted-average number of shares outstanding. Diluted income per
share is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares and
all dilutive potentially issuable shares, except during loss periods when those
potentially issuable shares are anti-dilutive.
The
following data shows the amounts used in computing basic and diluted weighted-average
number of shares outstanding at December 31, 2007 and 2006:
For the Years Ended December 31,
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
Basic weighted average common shares
outstanding
|
$ 124,958,236
|
|
$ 111,480,627
|
Dilutive effect of outstanding options /
warrants
|
-
|
|
-
|
Diluted Weighted Average Common Shares
Outstanding
|
$
124,958,236
|
|
$
111,480,627
|
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
– In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board
(FASB) issued SFAS No. 157,
Fair Value Measurements
, which defines
fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted
accounting principles and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS
No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and
interim periods within those fiscal years. In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff
Position (FSP FIN) No. 157-2 which extended the effective date to fiscal years
beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS
No. 157 to have a material impact on the consolidated financial
statements.
In
February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159,
The Fair Value Option for
Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.
SFAS No. 159 permits companies to
choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value.
SFAS No. 159 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years
beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company does not expect the adoption of
SFAS No. 159 to have a material impact on the consolidated financial
statements.
In
December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141(R),
Business
Combinations
, and SFAS No. 160,
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial
Statements.
SFAS No. 141(R) requires an acquirer to
measure the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any
non-controlling interest in the acquiree at their fair values on the acquisition date,
with goodwill being the excess value over the net identifiable assets acquired. SFAS
No. 160 clarifies that a non-controlling interest in a subsidiary should be
reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements, consolidated net income
shall be adjusted to include the net income attributed to the non-controlling interest
and consolidated comprehensive income shall be adjusted to include the comprehensive
income attributed to the non-controlling interest. The calculation of earnings per
share will continue to be based on income amounts attributable to the parent. SFAS
No. 141(R) and SFAS No. 160 are effective for financial statements
issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. Early adoption is
prohibited. The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS No. 160 to have a material
impact on the consolidated financial statements.
In March
2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161,
Disclosures about
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.
SFAS No. 161
amends SFAS No. 133,
Accounting for Derivative Instruments and
Hedging Activities
to require enhanced disclosures concerning
the manner in which an entity uses derivatives (and the reasons it uses them), the
manner in which derivatives and related hedged items are accounted for under SFAS No.
133 and interpretations thereof, and the effects that derivatives and related hedged
items have on an entity's financial position, financial performance, and cash flows.
SFAS No. 161 is effective for financial statements of fiscal years and interim periods
beginning after November 15, 2008. The Company does not expect the adoption of SFAS No.
161 to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
F-12
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
NOTE
2
–
ACQUISITIONS AND
DISPOSAL
Kaznickel acquisition by Condesa
On
July 9, 2004, Condesa, which was owned 60% by Brisa holding 8,400,000 of 14,000,000
shares of outstanding common stock, entered into an investment agreement under which
Condesa provided a $300,000 convertible loan to Kaznickel LLP, which was immediately
converted into a new 40 percent equity interests in Kaznickel. On September 22, 2004,
Brisa acquired an interest in Kaznickel by purchasing 60 percent of the equity interest
of the founding partners’ remaining 60 percent interests. As consideration for
the purchase, the original partners obtained a commitment from Brisa to facilitate a
reverse merger with a U.S. public company, and a commitment to obtain funding enabling
Kaznickel to further explore its mineral property rights. The value of the commitment
was estimated to be $270,000 based on the percent of Kaznickel obtained for
Condesa’s original cash investment of $300,000.
On
November 19, 2004, Brisa and the remaining Kaznickel partners exchanged their combined
60% interest in Kaznickel for a new 60% interest, equal to 21,000,000 shares of
Condesa, thereby making Kaznickel a wholly-owned subsidiary of Condesa. Brisa received
12,600,000 shares of Condesa in the transaction. The remaining 8,400,000 common shares
issued in the acquisition were recognized as minority shareholders’ interests.
The acquisition of a controlling interest in Kaznickel by Brisa and Condesa was
considered the purchase of Kaznickel with a measurement date of September 22, 2004, the
date Brisa and Condesa obtained control from the original Kaznickel
partners.
Condesa accounted for the acquisition of Kaznickel as a purchase
business combination with a purchase price of $304,456. The purchase price was
allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair
values. Negative goodwill was not recognized in connection with the acquisition of
Kaznickel. Instead, the excess of the fair value of the net assets over the purchase
price was allocated as a pro rata reduction of the amounts that otherwise would have
been assigned to the long-term assets. The Company is in the process of obtaining an
independent valuation of the net assets acquired. Accordingly the allocation of the
purchase price is subject to refinement. At September 22, 2004, the purchase price was
allocated to the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed as follows:
Current assets
|
|
$ 231,674
|
Mineral property rights
|
|
267,660
|
Asset retirement costs of the mineral rights
|
|
474,936
|
Property and equipment
|
|
21,573
|
Total assets acquired
|
|
995,843
|
Current liabilities
|
|
(25,468)
|
Asset retirement obligation
|
|
(665,919)
|
Total liabilities assumed
|
|
(691,387)
|
Minority Shareholders' interests
|
|
(121,782)
|
Net Assets Acquired
|
|
$ 182,674
|
F-13
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Intangible assets acquired include the mineral property rights, which
are capitalized until the production phase begins, subject to impairment
considerations. Other intangible assets include the asset retirement costs of the
mineral rights, which have a 20-year estimated life and are subject to amortization at
a planned rate of $24,291 per year, and the asset retirement obligation, which is
accreted over its 20-year life, with a current estimated expense of $43,274 per
year.
Condesa acquisition of EMPS (Bekem)
On
January 28, 2005, EMPS Research, Inc. (“EMPS”) completed a Plan and
Agreement of Reorganization with Condesa, wherein EMPS acquired 100% of the outstanding
capital stock of Condesa in exchange for the issuance of 35,000,000 common shares of
which 21,000,000 were held by the controlling shareholder and 14,000,000 were issued to
minority shareholders in Condesa. EMPS subsequently changed its name to Bekem Metals,
Inc. As a result of that reorganization, the shareholders of Condesa owned 91% of the
outstanding common stock of EMPS at that reorganization date. The combined entities
were referred to after that reorganization as Bekem.
EMPS
had 3,300,000 shares of common stock outstanding prior to that transaction that
remained outstanding, were classified as minority interests, and were valued at $0. The
transaction resulted in a change of control of EMPS. For financial reporting purposes,
Condesa was considered the acquirer. The acquisition was recognized as a forward stock
split of Condesa’s 30,000 shares of capital stock held by the controlling
shareholder that were outstanding prior to the reorganization into 21,000,000 common
shares, or a 700-for-1 stock split. The financial statements were restated for the
effects of the stock split for all periods presented. Condesa’s assets,
liabilities and minority interests were recorded at their historical cost and the
effect of the stock split was reflected retroactively since the inception of Condesa.
The assets of EMPS were considered to have been acquired by Condesa in exchange for the
assumption of EMPS’s net liabilities. The net assets consisted of cash of $2,648,
intangible assets of $1,823 and current liabilities of $15,077. The operations of
Condesa were included for all periods presented and the operations of EMPS were
included from the acquisition of EMPS.
Kazakh Metals, Inc. acquisition of Kyzyl Kain Mamyt,
LLC
On
June 1, 2005, Kazakh Metals acquired 100% of the equity interests of Kyzyl Kain Mamyt,
LLC (KKM) for the cash purchase price of $100,000. The management of the Company
understands that at this time KKM was not able to maintain the subsoil use contract
because of financial liquidity problems. The owners of KKM, prior to its acquisition by
Kazakh Metals, had incurred significant debt obligations on the property which they
were unable to service and KKM’s assets were pledged as a guarantee for these
debt obligations. Moreover, at the time of the acquisition of KKM by Kazakh Metals, the
price of nickel was at the level where the processing of nickel ore by known and proven
technologies was not considered economically feasible due to high processing costs.
Therefore, the former owners of KKM sold their interests in KKM to Kazakh Metals at a
price significantly below the estimated fair value to free itself from the debt
obligations associated with the property. The former equity holders of KKM were not
related parties.
KKM
operates in the Aktyubinsk region of northwestern Kazakhstan and owns licenses to
explore for, and is engaged in the production and sale of nickel and cobalt ore and
Mamyt brown coal. KKM has been actively involved in mining cobalt and nickel ore since
its inception and has been operating in the Soviet Union since 1938. The height of
production occurred in the late 1980’s. Production, although limited, has
occurred since that time. KKM’s primary assets are its rights to exploit unproved
reserves and its infrastructure of buildings, machinery and equipment, including a rail
spur.
F-14
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Kazakh Metals accounted for the acquisition of KKM as a purchase
business combination with a purchase price of $100,000. The purchase price was
allocated to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair
values. The Company has estimated a fair value of $40,000,000 for the mineral interests
and obtained an independent appraisal of the buildings and equipment of $17,693,795 on
the acquisition date, and is in the process of obtaining third-party valuations of the
mineral assets; accordingly, the allocation of the purchase price is subject to
refinement. Negative goodwill was not recognized in connection with the acquisition of
KKM. Instead, the excess of the fair value of the net assets over the purchase price
was allocated as a pro rata reduction of the amounts that otherwise would have been
assigned to the long-term assets. Notes payable assumed in the acquisition with a
stated value of $7,445,197 are due to third parties generally within three years,
including $4,432,290 to a bank, and were recorded based upon their fair values on the
acquisition date, resulting in a discount to the notes that will be recognized as
interest expense through maturity. The operations and cash flows of KKM were included
in the Company’s consolidated financial statements since the date of the
acquisition.
The
following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and
liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.
Current Assets
|
|
$ 469,379
|
Unproved mineral property rights
|
|
7,034,321
|
Asset retirement costs of the mineral rights
|
|
86,852
|
Buildings, constructions machinery and
equipment
|
|
3,068,786
|
Total assets acquired
|
|
10,659,338
|
Current liabilities
|
|
(717,527)
|
Asset retirement obligation
|
|
(97,223)
|
Notes Payable, net of discount of $917,737
|
|
(6,541,670)
|
Deferred tax liability
|
|
(3,202,918)
|
Total liabilities assumed
|
|
(10,559,338)
|
Net Assets Acquired
|
|
$ 100,000
|
Intangible assets acquired include the mineral property rights, which
are capitalized and amortized on a units-of-production method, subject to impairment
considerations. Other intangible assets include the asset retirement costs of the
mineral rights, which have a 20-year estimated life and are subject to amortization at
a planned rate of $4,311 per year, and the asset retirement obligation, which is
accreted over its 20-year life, with a current estimated expense of $7,680 per
year.
Bekem acquisition of Kazakh Metals
On
October 24, 2005, Kazakh Metals, Inc. (KMI) was acquired by Bekem Metals, Inc. in a
purchase business combination under which Bekem acquired 100% of the outstanding common
shares of KMI in exchange for the issuance of 61,200,000 common shares. The primary
asset of KMI is its wholly owned subsidiary, KKM.
The
principal shareholder of Bekem was also the principal shareholder of KMI. Accordingly,
the transaction was considered to be between entities under common control and did not
result in a change in control of Bekem. Following the transaction, entities over which
this shareholder maintains voting and investment control hold 51,600,000 Bekem common
shares, which represented 51.5% of the 100,088,888 outstanding common shares. The
acquisition of the portion of KMI owned by the principal shareholder will be recorded
at historical cost. The portion of KMI purchased from the minority shareholders of KMI
was recorded at fair value.
F-15
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Disposal of Condesa
On
July 24, 2006, Condesa transferred its interest in Kaznickel to Bekem, making Kaznickel
a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bekem. On September 30, 2006, Bekem sold Condesa to a
third party for a nominal value. Condesa generated no sales and had no income. The
disposals of Condesa had no material effect on the financial position and the income
statement of Bekem.
NOTE 3 – CASH
The
Company considers all demand deposits, money market accounts and marketable securities
purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be cash and cash
equivalents. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents approximates their carrying
amounts due to their short-term maturity.
Cash
consists of the following:
December 31,
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
Current accounts (USD)
|
$ 253,892
|
|
$ 479,947
|
Current accounts (Tenge)
|
503,051
|
|
38,379
|
Bank deposit (USD)
|
-
|
|
8,065,354
|
Total
|
|
$
756,943
|
|
$
8,583,680
|
|
|
|
|
|
NOTE 4 – PROPERTY, PLANT AND MINERAL INTERESTS
Property, plant and mineral interests consist of the
following:
December 31,
|
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
Buildings
|
|
$ 1,995,927
|
|
$ 2,156,326
|
Machinery and equipment
|
|
3,771,957
|
|
3,474,858
|
Other fixed assets
|
|
149,721
|
|
69,665
|
Unproved mineral interests
|
|
8,725,527
|
|
8,313,744
|
|
|
14,643,132
|
|
14,014,593
|
Accumulated depreciation
|
|
(416,773)
|
|
(144,030)
|
Net Property and Equipment
|
|
$
14,226,359
|
|
$
13,870,563
|
The
increase in property, plant and mineral interests is principally related to the
purchase of equipment (trucks, other transportation vehicles, etc) and capital repairs
undertaken by the Company at the Kempirsai deposit.
Unproved mineral interests represent the acquisition costs of the
mineral interests upon the purchase business combinations with Kaznickel and with KKM.
The government of Kazakhstan retains the title to the property upon which the
Company’s mineral rights pertain; however, the Company’s mineral interests
are considered to be tangible assets.
F-16
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Gornostai Deposit
Kaznickel acquired its interest in the Contract on Exploration and
Development of Gornostai Cobalt and Nickel Deposit (the “Contract”) issued
by the MEMR dated February 26, 2004. As discussed above, Kaznickel acquired the right
to exploit the mineral property including the right to explore, develop and produce the
cobalt and nickel mineral resources on the Deposit through February 26, 2026 providing
commercial discoveries are made before the end of the exploration period. The Company
has the right to re-negotiate the contract at that time for an additional 30 years. The
government of Kazakhstan retains the title to the property; however, the
Company’s mineral interests are considered to be tangible assets. The Company
capitalized the acquisition costs of its mineral interest upon the purchase business
combination with Kaznickel. The allocated purchase price included a capitalized amount
of an acquired asset retirement obligation. While the property is not in production,
the asset retirement cost is depleted over the life of the contract from the date of
acquisition.
The
Contract provides the Company certain rights and also imposes certain obligations and
commitments. The rights include exploration through February 2008, and development and
production of minerals through February 26, 2026. In January 2008, Kaznickel agreed
with the Expert Committee of the MEMR to an extension of the exploration period to
February 2010. Currently, Kaznickel is in the process of signing the addendum to the
subsoil use contract to reflect these changes.
The
Company may transfer its right to third parties in accordance with Kazakh laws and
regulations and has a right to renegotiate an extension of the Contract. Significant
rights and obligations and commitments of the Contract include monetary commitments for
exploration of $1,105,100 in 2006 and $1,576,480 in 2007, and expenditures to support
social projects amounting to $300,000 during the production stage. In addition, the
Company was required to pay a fee of $2,000 upon award of the Contract, and a fee for
the use of Kazakh owned technical data of $735,400 of which $4,179 was paid on award of
the Contract and $731,221 will be due upon a finding of commercial deposits. Royalties
of 0.5% of ores extracted and sold will be required. The Contract subjects the Company
to pay regular income tax of 30 percent and requires an excess profits tax of 15 to 60
percent if its net profits exceed 20 percent of gross profit. Obligations also include
the establishment and funding of a reclamation fund that includes the cost of removing
buildings and equipment used in the Deposit area. The Company is also required to
comply with Kazakh environmental laws and regulations.
Kempirsai Deposit
Bekem acquired two contracts to explore for and extract minerals in
connection with the purchase of KKM. One contract is for the exploration and extraction
of nickel and cobalt ore from deposits located in an approximately 575,756 acre site in
the northwest area of the Republic of Kazakhstan (approximately 130 kilometers
northwest of the city of Aktobe, Kazakhstan, near the town of Badamsha, referred to as
the “Kempirsai” deposit), which is valid through October 12, 2011. The
other contract is for the exploration and extraction of Mamyt brown coal at a site
located within 40 kilometers of the Kempirsai deposit, which is valid through December
11, 2018. The contracts may be extended upon agreement between KKM and the Geology and
Minerals Resources Committee of the Ministry of Energy and Minerals Resources of the
Republic of Kazakhstan. The Kempirsai contract requires the Company to pay royalty
payments equal to 2.21% of gross ore sales. The Mamyt brown coal contract requires a
royalty payment equal to nine tenths of one percent (0.9%) of gross coal sales. Both
contracts require the Company to pay an excess profits tax ranging from 4 to 30 percent
based upon the reaching of an internal rate of return (as defined in the contracts)
ranging from 22 to 30 percent. The allocated purchase price of the mineral interest
included a capitalized amount of an acquired asset retirement obligation.
F-17
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
On
December 10, 2007, the MEMR unilaterally terminated KKM’s contracts and licenses
to explore for nickel, cobalt, brown coal, and other minerals within the Kempirsai and
the Mamyt deposits on the basis that KKM had material failures in execution of the work
programs associated with the contacts and licenses but did not detail those failures.
In January 2008, KKM filed an action in the Court of Astana city against the MEMR
challenging the legality of the unilateral termination of the KKM contracts and
licenses by the MEMR for several reasons, including that the contracts and licenses had
been terminated on grounds not provided for in the subsoil use contracts and
legislation and there were no material failures in the execution of the work programs
associated with the contracts and licenses. In February 2008, the Court of Astana city
acknowledged that the unilateral termination of the contracts and licenses by the MEMR
was illegitimate. The Court canceled the order of the MEMR relating to the unilateral
termination of the licenses and reinstated the KKM contracts and licenses. In March
2008, the MEMR appealed the decision of the Court of Astana city. The Republic of
Kazakhstan’s Supreme Court is expected to announce the final decision by the end
of April 2008.
NOTE 5 – INCOME TAXES
In
accordance with the laws and regulations of the Republic of Kazakhstan income taxes are
calculated at the statutory rate of 30 percent. Net operating losses for development
companies in exploration and development may be carried forward for the seven
subsequent years from the date the losses are incurred. Therefore, the Company has
deferred tax assets due to the savings of income tax in future periods. However, the
Company assessed the recoverability of these deferred tax assets and created a
provision against them until it has more evidence of its recoverability in the future
periods.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:
December 31,
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
Tax loss carryforwards
|
$ 5,111,855
|
|
$ 2,590,511
|
Property and equipment
|
(519,790)
|
|
(704,645)
|
Asset retirement cost
|
(162,506)
|
|
(169,521)
|
Asset retirement obligation
|
340,178
|
|
308,263
|
Unproved mineral property rights
|
(2,653,191)
|
|
(2,503,728)
|
Grant compensation expense
|
174,155
|
|
45,475
|
Valuation allowance
|
(2,290,701)
|
|
-
|
Net Deferred Tax Liabilities
|
$
-
|
|
$
(433,645)
|
The
valuation allowance was recognized for the amount of loss carryforward balance which is
estimated to be unrecoverable.
The
following is a reconciliation of the amount of tax that would result from applying the
U.S. federal rate to pretax income with the provision for income taxes at December 31,
2007 and 2006:
For the Years Ended December 31,
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
Tax at US Federal statutory rate (34%)
|
$ (2,747,155)
|
|
$ (2,016,909)
|
Change in valuation allowance
|
2,290,701
|
|
-
|
Deferred Tax Benefit
|
$
(456,454)
|
|
$
(2,016,909)
|
F-18
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
NOTE 6 – RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
As
discussed above, during 2007, the Company financed all operations using the proceeds
received from the private placement of shares. No related party transactions were made
in 2007. During 2006, the Company borrowed $329,000 from shareholders to fund the U.S.
administrative operations. The notes were due on demand and accrued interest at 3
percent. The notes were paid off in 2006.
NOTE 7 – ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION
Upon
the purchase of Kaznickel on September 22, 2004 and KKM on June 1, 2005, the Company
recorded the effects of asset retirement obligations in accordance with SFAS
No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” and related
interpretations, which requires entities to record the fair value of a liability for an
asset retirement obligation when it is incurred. The Company is required under the
contracts with the Geology and Minerals Resources Committee of the MEMR, to remediate
the properties from the effects of the open pit mining processes. The standard applies
to legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets that result
from the acquisition, construction, development or normal use of the asset. The
Company’s asset retirement obligations relate primarily to the obligation to fill
mining pits and restore surface conditions at the conclusion of the term of the
Contracts.
SFAS
No. 143 requires that the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement
obligation be recognized in the period in which it is incurred, if a reasonable
estimate of fair value can be made. When the liability is initially recorded, the
related cost is capitalized by increasing the carrying amount of the related mineral
interest rights. Over time, the liability is accreted upward for the change in its
present value each period until the obligation is settled. The initial capitalized cost
is amortized as a component of mineral rights interests as described in Note
4.
The
reconciliation of the asset retirement obligation is as follows:
December 31,
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
Balance at the beginning of the year
|
$ 951,355
|
|
$ 833,840
|
Liabilities incurred
|
8,405
|
|
44,650
|
Accretion expense during the year
|
79,288
|
|
72,865
|
Asset Retirement Obligation
|
$
1,039,048
|
|
$
951,355
|
NOTE 8 – SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Shares issued for cash
– On
July 14, 2006, the Company closed a private placement of 8,000,000 units at $3.50 per
unit, each unit consisting of three shares of restricted common stock and one warrant
to purchase one share of common stock for two dollars. The warrant is immediately
exercisable and expires twenty-four months from the date granted, i.e., in July 2008.
The private placement resulted in the issuance of 24,000,000 restricted common shares
and warrants to purchase 8,000,000 common shares to two non-U.S. investors for
$28,000,000. These issuances did not result in a change in control of the
Company.
From
the total proceeds, the Company paid the placement agent, Aton Securities, Inc., a cash
fee totaling 5% of the total proceeds raised, or $1,400,000. The Company also issued to
the placement agent a warrant to purchase up to 2,400,000 shares of restricted common
stock. The exercise price of this warrant is $1.17 per share. The warrant is
immediately exercisable and expired eighteen months from the date granted, i.e., in
January 2008. The warrants were not exercised.
F-19
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Also, the Company incurred legal and consulting expenses of
$153,487.
The
following summarizes warrant activity for the years ended December 31, 2007 and
2006:
|
|
|
Weighted
|
|
|
|
Average
|
|
Warrants
|
|
Exercise Price
|
Balance, December 31, 2005
|
$ -
|
|
$ -
|
Issued
|
10,400,000
|
|
1.81
|
Expired
|
-
|
|
-
|
Exercised
|
-
|
|
-
|
Balance, December 31, 2006
|
10,400,000
|
|
1.81
|
Issued
|
-
|
|
-
|
Expired
|
-
|
|
-
|
Exercised
|
-
|
|
-
|
Balance, December 31, 2007
|
$
10,400,000
|
|
$
1.81
|
The
following table summarizes information about warrants outstanding at December 31,
2007:
|
|
Weighted
|
|
|
|
Average
|
|
|
|
Remaining
|
Weighted
|
Range of
|
Number
|
Contractual
|
Average
|
Exercise Price
|
Outstanding
|
Life (Years)
|
Exercise Price
|
$ 1.17
|
2,400,000
|
0.04
|
$ 1.17
|
$ 2.00
|
8,000,000
|
0.54
|
$ 2.00
|
The
$1.17 warrants expired on January 14, 2008. The $2.00 warrants expire on July 14,
2008.
Stock grants and shares resigned
–
On October 20, 2006, under the
Company’s 2003 Stock Option Plan and pursuant to the board of directors desire to
attract and retain experienced and educated executives, the board agreed to award to
certain executives and key employees of the Company restricted stock grants (1,083,123
shares). The vesting of the shares is contingent upon meeting various company-wide
performance goals, including timely filing of reports with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, meeting the yearly deadlines for the pilot plant construction, operations
as dictated by the board of directors, timely performing of the drilling work program
requirements as dictated by the Republic of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Energy and
Mineral Resources, and start of commercial operations. If these goals are not met, the
Company will not recognize compensation expense and will reverse any previously
recognized compensation expenses. The fair value of the restricted stock grants was
valued at $1.95 per share, which represented the closing market price of the
Company’s stock on October 20, 2006, or $2,112,090.
During 2007, the Company reversed the amount of deferred compensation of
$822,455 due to the resignation of Mr. Cherdabayev, the previous CEO and President of
the Company.
As
of December 31, 2007, there was $709,117 of total unexpensed compensation cost. The
cost is expected to be recognized over a period of 2 years. 95,857 shares were vested
during 2007. No shares were vested as of December 31, 2006. The Company recognized
$428,935 and $151,583 of compensation expense for the years ended December 31, 2007,
and 2006, respectively.
F-20
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
NOTE 9 – SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW DISCLOSURES
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow
Information:
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Years Ended December 31,
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
Cash paid for interest
|
$ 1,018
|
|
$ 529,096
|
|
|
|
|
Non-cash Investing and Financing
Activities:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
For the Years Ended December 31,
|
2007
|
|
2006
|
Share-based compensation arrangements
|
$(822,455)
|
|
$2,112,090
|
NOTE 10 – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Concentration of Risk Relating to Foreign Mining
Operations
– All of the Company’s properties
are located within the Republic of Kazakhstan in Central Asia. In addition to general
industry risks of nickel and cobalt price fluctuations, and potential lack of economic
viability of the claims, the Company has a concentration of risk related to its foreign
properties and interests which are subject to political uncertainty, changes in
government, unilateral renegotiation of licenses, claims or contracts, nationalization,
or other uncertainties. In addition, the validity of mining claims which constitute the
Company's property holdings in Kazakhstan, may, in certain cases, be uncertain and are
subject to being contested.
Need for Additional Capital –
The Company needs substantial additional capital resources and is
expected to be totally dependent upon investment funds to support operations until such
time as the Company begins to generate sufficient revenue to fund operations. These
funds are expected to consist primarily of funds raised in equity and/or debt financing
activities. Currently there is no firm commitment from any party to provide the Company
with additional equity or debt financing.
Failure to Satisfy the Terms of the Subsoil Use Contracts
–
Under the subsoil use contracts, the Company is
required to satisfy the annual minimum work program requirements. If the Company fails
to satisfy these commitments, it may be subject to penalties and fines and,
potentially, to the loss of one or more of the subsoil use contracts. The cancellation
of the contracts would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business,
results of operations and financial condition.
Annual Work Program –
Historically, it has been the practice of the MEMR that if a subsurface
user could not fulfill certain conditions for a specific year, for any reason, then the
work program requirements of that year would be extended to the next year. This was
done because the obligations of subsoil users were typically set forth on the basis of
the full duration of the subsoil use contract, rather than on an annual basis. During
the latter part of 2007, this practice was terminated by order of the president of the
country. This change in practice has created great uncertainty as to how the government
will proceed in the future. Currently, there is no legislatively fixed mechanism
governing the development of annual work programs or for the independent determination
of compliance by the subsurface user with the parameters of the annual work program.
The determination is currently being made at the discretion of officials employed by
the authorized governmental body. Based solely on their own discretion, these officials
have the authority to suspend the activities of the subsurface user even for a minor
breach of the detailed annual work program. These facts, coupled with the right of the
competent body to unilaterally terminate a subsoil user’s contract if the
contractor materially breaches the subsoil use contract obligations, indicates there is
a risk that penalties and fines could be assessed and/or one or more of the subsoil use
contracts could be cancelled.
F-21
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Kazakhstan Business Environment
– Kazakhstan, as an emerging market, has a legal and regulatory
infrastructure that is not as mature and stable as those usually existing in more
developed free market economies. As a result, operations carried out in Kazakhstan can
involve risks and uncertainties that are not typically associated with those in
developed markets. The instability associated with the ongoing transformation process
to a market economy can lead to changes in the business conditions in which the Company
currently operates. Changes in the political, legal, tax or regulatory environment
could adversely impact the Company’s operations.
Tax Matters
– The local and
national tax environment in the Republic of Kazakhstan is subject to change and
inconsistent application, interpretation and enforcement. Non-compliance with
Kazakhstan laws and regulations, as interpreted by the Kazakh authorities, can lead to
the imposition of fines, penalties and interest.
Environmental Matters
–
Extensive national, regional and local environmental laws and regulations in Kazakhstan
affect the Company’s operations. These laws and regulations set various standards
regulating certain aspects of health and environmental quality and impose user fees,
penalties and other liabilities for the violation of these standards and establish, in
some circumstances, obligations to remediate current and former facilities and off-site
locations. The Company believes it is currently in compliance with all existing
Republic of Kazakhstan environmental laws and regulations. However, as new
environmental laws and legislation are enacted and the old laws are repealed,
interpretation, application and enforcement of the laws may become inconsistent.
Compliance in the future could require significant expenditures, which may adversely
affect the Company’s operations.
Due to the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan
–
In connection with the Company’s
acquisition of the exploration contract covering the Gornostai deposit, it is required
to repay the Republic of Kazakhstan for historical costs incurred in undertaking
geological and geophysical studies and infrastructure improvements. The repayment terms
of this obligation will not be determined until the Company applies for and is granted
a contract by the Republic of Kazakhstan to engage in commercial production. That
amount is expected to be $731,221 and has not been recorded as a liability. Under the
current contract, once the Company determines the property contains commercially
producible reserves, and desires to commence commercial production, it must apply for
such right prior to the expiration of its exploration, which is currently February
2010. The Company anticipates it will apply for a commercial production contract within
the next 1-3 years. Of course, there is no guarantee when or if the Company will
discover commercially producible reserves within the Gornostai deposit. Should the
Company decide not to pursue a commercial production contract, then it can relinquish
the Gornostai deposit to the Republic of Kazakhstan in satisfaction of this
obligation.
The
Company is required, under its licenses, to submit a proposed annual work program to
the MEMR for approval. Failure to meet the minimum work program requirements could
cause the Company to lose its licenses.
Operating Leases
– Bekem
leases approximately 400 square feet of office space located at 324 South 400 West,
Suite 225, Salt Lake City, Utah 84101 for its administrative and registered office in
the United States. The Company pays annual rents of approximately $7,800 for this space
pursuant to a lease agreement that expires December 31, 2008 with an option to extend
the lease for an additional year.
The
Company also maintains a representative office in Almaty, Kazakhstan, where it leases
approximately 1,880 square feet of office space. The lease agreement expires on
November 30, 2008. The monthly lease payment is $7,000. Upon consent of both parties,
the agreement may be prolonged further.
F-22
|
BEKEM METALS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
|
|
(An Exploration Stage Company)
|
|
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
STATEMENTS
|
|
DECEMBER 31, 2007 AND 2006
|
Kaznickel LLP rents an office (approximately 2,200 square feet) in
Semei, Kazakhstan, for approximately $4,000 per month. Semei is the closest city to the
Gornostai deposit. Kaznickel also rents approximately 5,300 square feet of warehouse
space in Semei for $4,250 per month. Kaznickel uses this space to store test ore. These
lease agreements expire in March 31, 2009. If at any time the owner of this space
decides they need or want the space for other purposes, Kaznickel has no right to
continue to occupy the space and could be forced to move.
KKM
rents approximately 1,120 square feet of office space in Aktobe, Kazakhstan. KKM pays
approximately $5,500 per month for this space under a one-year lease agreement. This
space is leased on a year-to-year basis.
Rent
expense for the years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006 was $282,042 and $194,854,
respectively.
NOTE 11 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In
March 2008, the Company’s board increased the restricted stock grant previously
made to its Chief Executive Officer by 38,343 shares and awarded a restricted stock
grant of 383,429 shares to its Chief Financial Officer. Vesting is dependent upon
certain future events. These restricted stock grants were made under the
Company’s 2003 Stock Option Plan
In
March 2008, KKM has entered into a preliminary consortium agreement, subject to
negotiation of the terms of a definitive agreement,
with two Kazakhstani companies who also have exploration and production
licenses near the Company's Kempirsai deposits in northwestern Kazakhstan, to develop
and construct a nickel processing plant in the area for joint use by the
parties. KKM is considered as the operator of the consortium. In April 2008,
one party to this agreement deposited approximately $9,900,000 with the Company to be
used toward the project.
F-23