Metals & Mining Second Quarter 2021 Review and Outlook

Noble Capital Markets Natural Resources Sector Review – August 2021

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021; Company Filings

METALS AND MINING INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

Metals & Mining Second Quarter 2021 Review and Outlook

Mining companies modestly trailed the broader market

During the second quarter of 2021, mining companies (as measured by the XME) gained 7.9% compared to 8.2% for the broader market as measured by the S&P 500 index. The VanEck Vectors Gold Miners (GDX) and Junior Gold Miners (GDXJ) ETFs were up 4.6% and 3.9%, respectively. During the second quarter, gold, silver, copper, lead, and zinc futures prices were up 3.2%, 6.4%, 7.4%, 3.5%, and 9.5%, respectively. While gold and silver recovered some of their first quarter losses, prices were still down year-to-date through June 30, while copper, lead and zinc prices were up 21.8%, 13.7%, and 12.0%, respectively. While the U.S. Dollar Index rose 2.7% year-to-date through June 30, it was down under 1% during the second quarter.

Reading the Fed’s tea leaves

The Federal Reserve threw some cold water on the reflation trade during their Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting in June with economic projections that led investors to worry that the Fed could increase rates sooner than previously expected. While the FOMC will meet again in July, investors will have to wait until the FOMC meeting in September for the next set of economic projections. In the interim, commentary at the Jackson Hole Economic Policy Symposium in August may provide more clues about the Fed’s direction.

We remain constructive on the sector

We think gold and silver could remain somewhat range-bound for the remainder of 2021 with silver offering modestly higher upside due to growing industrial demand and where it trades relative to gold. Much will depend on inflation expectations, U.S. dollar strength, and other uncertainties. This is not a bad thing, in our view, given that precious metals prices should be profitable for producers at current levels. Demand for base metals will likely benefit from global economic growth and infrastructure spending and we think prices could go higher. Additionally, secular themes, including trends toward electrification, favor metals used in electric vehicle batteries, infrastructure, and solar and renewable power technologies.

Taking the long view

Investors should consider gaining exposure to precious and base metals through mining stocks. Real interest rates are likely to remain low for the foreseeable future, despite potential increases in nominal rates, and gold could remain attractive as a store of value. Presently, we do not view volatile cryptocurrencies as a credible substitute for this function. Importantly, metals prices could have an upward bias given relatively modest levels of reinvestment in new reserves and resources in recent years.

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Gold Mining – Comparable Tables 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Gold Mining – LTM Equity Performance 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Silver Mining – Comparable Tables 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Silver Mining – LTM Equity Performance 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Gold & Silver – LTM Global M&A Activity 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Diversified Mining – Comparable Tables 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Diversified Mining – LTM Equity Performance 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

Diversified Mining – LTM Global M&A Activity 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

LTM Mining Industry M&A Summary 

Source: Capital IQ as of 06/30/2021

NOBLE QUARTERLY HIGHLIGHTS

Sailfish Royalty Corp. – CDX: FISH

Industry: Metals and Mining – Precious metals; Gold & Silver

Sailfish is a precious metals royalty and streaming company. Within Sailfish’s portfolio are three main assets on advanced stage projects in the Americas: a gold stream equivalent to a 3% NSR on the San Albino gold project (~3.5 sq. km) and a 2% NSR on the rest of the area (~134.5 sq. km) surrounding San Albino in northern Nicaragua; an up to 2.75% NSR on the Tocantinzinho gold project in the prolific Tapajos district of northern Brazil; and an up to 3% NSR on the multi-million-ounce Spring Valley gold project in Pershing County, Nevada.

2nd Quarter News Highlights:

May 12, 2021: Sailfish received the remaining US$3 million from the monetization of a portion of the NSR on the Tocantinzinho Gold Project, located in northern Brazil, and receives first delivery from the San Albino Gold stream, which is in northern Nicaragua. The company’s CEO stated that, “the receipt of the final cash payment from the Transaction and the first delivery from the San Albino gold stream will further bolster the Company’s balance sheet and provide the means to continue repurchasing shares, facilitate the planned spinout of the Gavilanes silver property and explore paying a dividend.”

Great Bear Resources Ltd. – OTCQX: GTBAF

Industry: Metals and Mining – Precious metals; Gold

Great Bear Resources Ltd. is a well-financed gold exploration company managed by a team with a track record of success in mineral exploration. Great Bear is focused in the prolific Red Lake gold district in northwest Ontario, where the company controls over 330 km2 of highly prospective tenure across 5 projects: the flagship Dixie Project (100% owned), the Pakwash Property (earning a 100% interest), the Dedee Property (earning a 100% interest), the Sobel Property (earning a 100% interest), and the Red Lake North Property (earning a 100% interest) all of which are accessible year-round through existing roads.

2nd Quarter News Highlights:

April 7, 2021: The Company announced the addition of a 6th drill to the flagship Dixie Project located at Red Lake district of Ontario. Great Bear’s primary focus remains infill and expansion drilling of the LP Fault zone at 25 – 75 metre centres. However, there remain large undrilled gaps of 100 – 400 metres between existing drill holes in several areas of the LP Fault, and within the other Dixie Project gold zones where step-out and step-down drilling have already successfully expanded the zones, all of which remain open to extension.

Garibaldi resources Corp. – OTC: GGIFF

Industry: Metals and Mining – Diversified metals and mining

Garibaldi Resources Corp. is an active Canadian-based junior exploration company focused on creating shareholder value through discoveries and strategic development of its assets in some of the most prolific mining regions in British Columbia and Mexico.

2nd Quarter News Highlights:

June 11, 2021: Garibaldi Resources announced the addition of key claims expanding the Company’s Otter Creek lode gold prospect to 8,704 total hectares within the Atlin Gold fields. The Otter Creek claims are located 12 kms east of Atlin in northwest British Columbia. Atlin has been a rich placer gold mining district since the Klondike gold rush from the mid 1800’s to the present day, rivalling Barkerville during the Cariboo gold rush. Until recently, the source of Atlin’s coarse gold placers had remained elusive. Significantly, Garibaldi’s geology team considers the expanded claims package covering the Otter Creek placers as an important exploration priority.

Source: Company Press Releases

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Noble Capital Markets Metals & Mining Newsletter Q2 2021

This newsletter was prepared and provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc. For any questions and/or requests regarding this newsletter, please contact >Francisco Penafiel

DISCLAIMER

All statements or opinions contained herein that include the words “ we”,“ or “ are solely the responsibility of NOBLE Capital Markets, Inc and do not necessarily reflect statements or opinions expressed by any person or party affiliated with companies mentioned in this report Any opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice All information provided herein is based on public and non public information believed to be accurate and reliable, but is not necessarily complete and cannot be guaranteed No judgment is hereby expressed or should be implied as to the suitability of any security described herein for any specific investor or any specific investment portfolio The decision to undertake any investment regarding the security mentioned herein should be made by each reader of this publication based on their own appraisal of the implications and risks of such decision This publication is intended for information purposes only and shall not constitute an offer to buy/ sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy/sell any security mentioned in this report, nor shall there be any sale of the security herein in any state or domicile in which said offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or domicile This publication and all information, comments, statements or opinions contained or expressed herein are applicable only as of the date of this publication and subject to change without prior notice Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Please refer to the above PDF for a complete list of disclaimers pertaining to this newsletter

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

Sierra Metals (SMTS)(SMT:CA)
Sierra Delivers Improved Results Despite Operating Challenges

As of April 24, 2020, Noble Capital Markets research on Sierra Metals is published under ticker symbols (SMTS and SMT:CA). The price target is in USD and based on ticker symbol SMTS. Research reports dated prior to April 24, 2020 may not follow these guidelines and could account for a variance in the price target.

Sierra Metals Inc is a precious and base metals producer in Latin America. The company acquires, explores, extracts, and produces mineral concentrates consisting of silver, copper, lead, zinc and gold in Mexico and Peru. Its activity includes the operation of the Yauricocha Mine in Peru, and the Bolivar and Cusi mines in Mexico. Yauricocha is an underground polymetallic mine using the sublevel block caving and cut-and-fill mining methods. Bolivar is a copper-silver-zinc-gold underground mine using room-and-pillar mining method. The majority of the revenue is earned by selling of the mineral concentrates to its customers in Peru.

Mark Reichman, Senior Research Analyst of Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Second quarter 2021 financial results. Sierra Metals reported second quarter 2021 adjusted net income attributable to shareholders of $12.7 million, or $0.08 per share, compared with $1.3 million, or $0.01 per share, during the prior year period. Adjusted EBITDA increased to $37.7 million compared with $12.6 million in the prior year period. Second quarter financial results were an improvement compared to first quarter adjusted EPS and EBITDA of $0.03 and $25.3 million, respectively. Our EPS and EBITDA estimates were $0.06 and $34.5 million. Income before income tax was $22.6 million versus our estimate of $22.5 million. On an unadjusted basis, reported EPS were $0.06 per share.


Updating estimates.  We have revised our 2021 EPS and EBITDA estimates to $0.30 and $137.5 million from $0.27 and $147.5 million. Our revisions incorporate second quarter results and management’s 2021 EBITDA guidance of $130 million to $140.0 million. We forecast 2022 EPS and EBITDA of $0.48 and $200.3 million, respectively …

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary.  Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

Comstock Mining (LODE)
Leading the Way As A Supplier of Strategic Materials While Fostering Decarbonization

Comstock Mining Inc. is an emerging innovator and leader in the sustainable extraction, valorization, and production of scarce natural resources, with a focus on high value strategic materials that are essential to meeting the rapidly increasing global demand for clean energy, carbon-neutrality, and natural products.

Mark Reichman, Senior Research Analyst of Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

First half 2021 update. Comstock Mining hosted a virtual meeting with investors to provide a corporate update. The company generated a second quarter loss of $6.3 million, or $(0.15) per share, compared to net income of $1.3 million, or $0.05 per share, during the prior year period. Quarterly financial results reflected other expense of $4.8 million driven by a change in the fair value of derivative assets associated with LiNiCo, a change in the fair value of a Tonogold note receivable, and an unrealized loss on investments in securities. For the first six months of 2021, net income amounted to $1.9 million, or $0.05 per share.


Transformative acquisitions.  During the first half of 2021, Comstock made several transformative acquisitions. These include Comstock’s investments in LiNiCo Corporation, a lithium-ion battery recycling company, Quantum Generative Materials LLC, LP Biosciences LLC, and MANA Corporation …

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary.  Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Comstock Announces Second Quarter 2021 Results and Business Update

 

Nears Completion of Transformational Green Shift to Tactical Decarbonization

VIRGINIA CITY, Nev., Aug. 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Comstock Mining Inc. (NYSE: LODE) (“Comstock” and the “Company”), an emerging innovator and leader in the sustainable extraction, valorization, and production of high value strategic materials that are essential to meeting the rapidly increasing global demand for clean energy, carbon-neutrality, and natural products, today announced its unaudited financial results for the periods ended June 30, 2021:

Selected Strategic Highlights

• Net income of $1.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, or $0.05 per basic and diluted share, inclusive of $2.6 million in net gains related to the change in fair value of certain assets.
• Net increase in shareholders’ equity of $38.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2021, resulting from restructuring, financing, and investment activities, including total debt elimination and $34.2 million increase in total assets from $43.1 million as of December 31, 2020, to $77.3 million as of June 30, 2021.
• Solid liquidity, with cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash of $5.3 million, over $20.0 million available under committed investment facilities as of June 30, 2021, and non-dilutive sales efforts underway for non-strategic assets with an expected aggregate cash value of over $25.0 million.
• Transformational plans are nearing completion, after successfully liquidating non-core assets, eliminating debt, acquiring new technologies, strengthening management, and launching new strategic lines of business.
• Recently announced lithium-ion battery, industrial hemp, and mercury remediation lines of business are expected to put the Company on track for consolidated annualized revenues exceeding $100,000,000, $300,000,000, and $900,000,000 in 2023, 2024, and 2025, respectively, during the first three full years of operations, not counting the impact of additional pending acquisitions.
  

“Our transformational efforts have quickened and have been especially impactful during the first half of this year,” said Corrado DeGasperis, Comstock’s Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “As a result, we have no debt, significant assets and book equity, material non-dilutive sources of cash, a portfolio of cutting-edge clean technologies, and an expanded management team that is laser focused on building an ecosystem of strategic businesses with the capacity for exponential growth and extraordinary financial, natural, and social impacts.”

Focus on Value Creation from Throughput, Revenue, Cash, and Decarbonization

“We are systemically strengthening our organization in ways that sustainably contribute to humanity’s rapidly-escalating demand for increasingly scarce natural resources, including the strategic resources needed to fuel the worldwide surge in, and transition to, clean energy and carbon-neutrality,” added DeGasperis. “To that end, we are targeting a few more commercially viable clean technology transactions that position us for extraordinary growth.”

“Throughput, revenue, cash and decarbonization are the lowest common denominators in each of our existing businesses,” continued DeGasperis. “Our team is focused on that math and the tactical activities that will be necessary to enable rapid and exponential financial, natural and social gains in markets that affect millions, but we are also keenly aware of the costs. We’ve structured each of our acquisitions to minimize dilution, by seeding each line of business with protected uses of our cash and equity, while positioning each line of business with its own cash, equity, and balance sheets, at the project and facility level. We believe that doing so will be an extremely cost-effective way to accelerate and dramatically exceed our pledge to sustainably deliver more than $500 million in shareholder value by 2023. Frankly, we believe our existing platform is already worth multiples of that target based on comparable valuations currently exceeding billions for similar lines of business. Our plans for exceeding those values come down to speed, scale, and leverage, with carbon as the common thread.”

Breakthrough Lithium-Ion Battery Recycling Technologies Enable Extraordinary Increase in Throughput

Comstock previously announced the filing of a Written Determination of Hazardous Waste Recycling (“Application”) by LINICO Corporation (“LiNiCo”), and its state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery (“LIB”) recycling facility (“LIB Recycling Facility”) that has now been designed for increased capacity and yields at a fraction of the capital of the known alternatives. Construction of the first phase of LiNiCo’s new processes will commence at the LIB Recycling Facility upon approval of the Application, with anticipated completion and start-up during the first half of 2022.

About 500,000 tons of expired LIBs containing over $900 million in strategic metals are being landfilled annually. A recent industry report estimated annual growth to more than $26 billion over the next two decades. Once complete, LiNiCo’s first LIB Recycling Facility is expected to scale up to its initial nameplate capacity, exceeding 100,000 tons per year of LIBs over three years, with revenues exceeding $500,000,000, in its third full year.

Renewable Process Solutions, An Engineering Powerhouse

LiNiCo’s capacity breakthroughs are the direct result of our recently acquired engineering, procurement, and construction (“EPC”) company, Renewable Process Solutions, Inc. (“RPS”), and its founder, Mr. Rahul Bobbili.

“Almost instantaneously, RPS and its network of engineering and advanced manufacturing experts integrated themselves into the LiNiCo team, enhancing designs, ensuring quality, reducing capital requirements and shortening lead times,” stated Mr. DeGasperis. “When the RPS engineers began developing breakthrough lithium extraction processes for us in real time, with their existing know-how, we also recognized other compelling synergies.”

RPS and Mr. Bobbili have designed and built 21 advanced renewable fuels production facilities since 2006, and RPS currently provides EPC services for the metals, mining, and renewable fuels industries. RPS also provides advanced equipment manufacturing services through its affiliated manufacturing facilities in the United States and India, at consistently superior qualities and rates. RPS brings Comstock an extraordinary competitive advantage.

Industry Leading, Industrial Scale Hemp Systems

Comstock’s investment in recycling lithium, nickel, and cobalt for cathodes led the Company to identify sources of carbon for use in the production of the graphite needed for LIB anodes, including the possibility of extracting and valorizing carbon from various alternative sources of biomass, such as forestry wastes and industrial hemp.

Industrial hemp is an extraordinary natural resource with tens of thousands of known applications, including food, feed, fuel, and fiber, and an array of emerging applications in batteries, bioplastics, and other renewable alternatives to fossil fuel derived products. Hemp’s ability to produce over 400 natural phytochemicals, such as cannabidiol (“CBD”) and cannabigerol (“CBG”), has also garnered growing attention for the compelling potential of these phytochemicals in health and wellness applications. The corresponding green rush is propelling global demand and sales of industrial hemp products to grow to $6.9 billion worldwide by 2025, according to Hemp Industry Daily.

Comstock and MANA Corporation (“MANA”), acquired a 50% stake in a pre-existing large-scale solvent extraction facility (“Biosciences Facility”) from Lakeview Energy LLC, an experienced agriproducts management company (“Lakeview”), and formed a joint venture with Lakeview to build, operate, and grow the Biosciences Facility.

“We’re proud to have assembled a world class team of industry veterans to rapidly retrofit and commence large scale solvent extraction operations and set a new standard in the industrial hemp industry for quality, compliance, consistency, flexibility and speed at a remarkable scale,” stated Mr. DeGasperis. “Once retrofits are complete in mid-2022, our facility will generate significant free cash flow by servicing a rapidly growing customer base with wholesale hemp products through a suite of custom-tailored hemp extraction, remediation, and refining solutions.”

The Biosciences Facility is expected to scale up to its initial nameplate capacity exceeding 200,000 pounds per day over its first three years, as it extracts, remediates, and refines oil from industrial hemp to generate annualized revenues of over $400,000,000 in its third full year of operations based solely on the small oil fraction of hemp. The remaining biomass is mostly cellulose, with many known co-products that the Company is evaluating for decarbonization synergies, including electrification applications that Company believes have been hiding in plain sight.

Plain Sight Innovations

Comstock has been working closely this year with its research and development partner, Plain Sight Innovations LLC (“PSI”), on several new technologies, including existing and extremely exciting processes for the efficient extraction and valorization of carbon from ubiquitous low-cost sources of feedstock.

“We’re building an ecosystem of strategic extraction and valorization facilities with complimentary feedstocks and products,” continued DeGasperis. “The consumption of any product is powered by its feedstock and, as vast as some feedstock supplies may seem, they are all finite. The world is watching that story unfold in electrification products, with a current focus on the scarcity of lithium and other cathode constituents, and a shared goal of reducing global carbon emissions. However, every cathode in every LIB needs an anode, and the vast majority of anodes are comprised of synthetic graphite, the global supplies of which are nearly all met with carbon intensive fossil fuel derivatives. We see that to be counterproductive, and its exactly the sort of inevitable need that we intend to address with our innovations. We believe that we are positioned ahead of that curve with our carbon and graphite technology developments, and my own extensive experience in building and running carbon and graphite production facilities.”

Comstock believes that the global transition to clean energy, escalating population growth, and accelerating natural resource scarcities are converging into a “perfect storm” of global demand in a broad array of strategic materials, including carbon, metals, and energy – without the corresponding capacity to sustainably meet even a fraction of the demand. The Company is planning and building the capacity to make a material contribution to meeting that demand.

Accelerating Innovation

“Shifting human consumption practices from wasteful and carbon intensive to more profitable, yet sustainable, and carbon neutral or negative requires innovation at unprecedented scales and rates,” added DeGasperis. “Exponential growth requires exponential capacity. We’re designing and deploying our systems for that capacity with our systemic management approach and extensive existing technology portfolio, but we’re still going to need more breakthroughs, speed, and capacity. We strongly believe that breakthrough speed has arrived in the form of quantum computing.”

Classical computing relies on binary states in order to complete logical operations that are either on or off. True or false. One or zero. In contrast, quantum computing is based on physical systems that can be in multiple states simultaneously, with each state having a probability of occurring after measurement. For quantum, that state can simultaneously be black, white, and every shade of grey in between. The distinction is powerful, and it gives quantum computers the potential to process exponentially more operations far more efficiently than classical computers.

The Company invested in Quantum Generative Materials LLC (“GenMat”) to support its development of a proprietary quantum operating system that harnesses emerging quantum computing technologies to accelerate the innovation of breakthrough new materials for use in high-impact applications, including batteries, mining, and decarbonization.

“Quantum computing has the profound potential to resolve urgent challenges of our time, such as global resource scarcity and climate change,” said Mr. DeGasperis. “We’re proud to collaborate with GenMat’s rapidly growing world class team and strategic network of quantum computing professionals and material scientists as they develop exceptional technologies, including specific technologies for direct use in each of our lines of business.”

Comstock and GenMat are focused on applications that accelerate the development of new materials and processes that address resource scarcity by facilitating climate smart mining, electrification, and decarbonization. Consequently, in addition to its investment, Comstock also secured exclusive rights to use GenMat’s quantum technologies in each of those fields of use to complement and enhance its existing operations and planned new business developments.

Triple Bottom Line

DeGasperis concluded: “We are now building a self-sustaining system that develops, builds, scales, and operates systemically-managed, rapidly-scalable, throughput-generating businesses that serve very large, fast-growing markets that enable exponential revenue growth while making globally-meaningful contributions to atmospheric carbon reduction and positive social outcomes. Our plan to do so from here begins with rounding out and deploying our core systems, starting with the completion of some complementary acquisitions and other transactions during the second half of 2021, the completion of construction and the commencement of operations in our lithium-ion battery recycling and industrial hemp extraction facilities in 2022, and the rapid satisfaction of our performance objectives that exceeds our $500,000,000 market value goal well before 2023.”

Conference Call
The Company will host a conference call today, August 10, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time/11:00 a.m. Eastern Time to report Second Quarter results and provide a business update. The Webcast will include a moderated Q&A, after the prepared remarks. Please join the event 10 to 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. The link to register in advance for this live Webcast is as follows:

Register in Advance for Our Zoom Webinar
When: August 10, 2021 08:00 AM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Topic: Comstock Mining Second Quarter 2021 Results and Business Update

Please click the link below to register in advance for this webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_AEfv_xN7RoiYEYpzl55gUw

The recording of the Webcast will be available, within 48 hours of the call, on the Company website:
http://www.comstockmining.com/investors/investor-library

About Comstock Mining Inc.

Comstock Mining Inc. (NYSE: LODE) (the “Company”) is an emerging innovator and leader in the sustainable extraction, valorization, and production of scarce natural resources, with a focus on high value strategic materials that are essential to meeting the rapidly increasing global demand for clean energy, carbon-neutrality, and natural products. To learn more, please visit www.comstockmining.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and any related calls or discussions may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “should,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “potential” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements, but are not the exclusive means of doing so. Forward-looking statements include statements about matters such as: consummation of all pending transactions; project, asset or Company valuations; future industry market conditions; future explorations, acquisitions, investments and asset sales; future performance of and closings under various agreements; future changes in our exploration activities; future estimated mineral resources; future prices and sales of, and demand for, our products; future operating margins; available resources; environmental conservation outcomes; future impacts of land entitlements and uses; future permitting activities and needs therefor; future production capacity and operations; future operating and overhead costs; future capital expenditures and their impact on us; future impacts of operational and management changes (including changes in the board of directors); future changes in business strategies, planning and tactics and impacts of recent or future changes; future employment and contributions of personnel, including consultants; future land sales, investments, acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, business combinations, operational, tax, financial and restructuring initiatives; the nature and timing of and accounting for restructuring charges and derivative liabilities and the impact thereof; contingencies; future environmental compliance and changes in the regulatory environment; future offerings of equity or debt securities; asset sales and associated costs; future working capital, costs, revenues, business opportunities, debt levels, cash flows, margins, earnings and growth. These statements are based on assumptions and assessments made by our management in light of their experience and their perception of historical and current trends, current conditions, possible future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees, representations or warranties and are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are unforeseeable and beyond our control and could cause actual results, developments and business decisions to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Some of those risks and uncertainties include the risk factors set forth in our filings with the SEC and the following: counterparty risks; capital markets’ valuation and pricing risks; adverse effects of climate changes or natural disasters; global economic and capital market uncertainties; the speculative nature of gold or mineral exploration, including risks of diminishing quantities or grades of qualified resources; operational or technical difficulties in connection with exploration or mining activities; contests over title to properties; potential dilution to our stockholders from our stock issuances and recapitalization and balance sheet restructuring activities; potential inability to comply with applicable government regulations or law; adoption of or changes in legislation or regulations adversely affecting businesses; permitting constraints or delays; decisions regarding business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, us or others; the impact of, or the non-performance by parties under agreements relating to, acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, business combinations, asset sales, leases, options and investments to which we may be party; changes in the United States or other monetary or fiscal policies or regulations; interruptions in production capabilities due to capital constraints; equipment failures; fluctuation of prices for gold or certain other commodities (such as silver, zinc, cyanide, water, diesel fuel and electricity); changes in generally accepted accounting principles; adverse effects of terrorism and geopolitical events; potential inability to implement business strategies; potential inability to grow revenues; potential inability to attract and retain key personnel; interruptions in delivery of critical supplies, equipment and raw materials due to credit or other limitations imposed by vendors or others; assertion of claims, lawsuits and proceedings; potential inability to satisfy debt and lease obligations; potential inability to maintain an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting; potential inability or failure to timely file periodic reports with the SEC; potential inability to list our securities on any securities exchange or market; inability to maintain the listing of our securities; and work stoppages or other labor difficulties. Occurrence of such events or circumstances could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows or the market price of our securities. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements by or attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Except as may be required by securities or other law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Neither this press release nor any related calls or discussions constitutes an offer to sell, the solicitation of an offer to buy or a recommendation with respect to any securities of the Company.

Sierra Metals Reports Consolidated Financial Results for the Second Quarter of 2021 and Provides Revised Guidance for 2021

 

Conference Call August 10, 2021, at 10:30 AM (EDT)

(All $ figures reported in USD)

• Revenue from metals payable of $79.4 million in Q2 2021, a 90% increase from $41.9 million in Q2 2020
• Operating cash flows before movements in working capital of $35.8 million in Q2 2021, a 171% increase from $13.2 million in Q2 2020
• Adjusted EBITDA of $37.7 million in Q2 2021, a 173% increase from $12.6 million in Q2 2021
• Record quarterly throughput at the Yauricocha Mine in Peru
• Q2 2021 consolidated production includes 9.5 million pounds of copper, a 2% decrease; 1.0 million ounces of silver, a 67% increase; 21.1 million pounds of zinc, a 54% increase; 8.0 million pounds of lead, a 24% increase; and 2,812 ounces of gold, a 2% increase respectively, compared to Q2 2020. Copper production decreased due to mining of lower-grade zones in Yauricocha and Bolivar
• Cash costs and All-in Sustaining Costs (“AISC”) per copper equivalent payable pound of $1.41 and $1.57 respectively compared to Q2 2020 cash costs of $0.91 and AISC of $1.80 at the Yauricocha Mine; cash costs and AISC per copper equivalent payable pound of $1.17 and $3.27 respectively compared to Q2 2020 cash costs of $1.02 and AISC of $1.60 at the Bolivar Mine; cash costs and AISC per silver equivalent payable ounce of $21.67 and $35.73 respectively compared to Q2 2020 cash costs of $18.66 and AISC of $26.25 at the Cusi Mine; cash costs increased during Q2 2021 due to the ongoing COVID-19 related impact on operations, while AISC was driven higher by the increase in sustaining capital expenditure, as the mines tried to catch up on the capital expenditure deferred during the recent quarters.
• $76.1 million of cash and cash equivalents as at June 30, 2021
• A shareholder conference call to be held Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at 10:30 AM (EDT)

 

TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Sierra Metals Inc. (TSX: SMT) (BVL: SMT) (NYSE AMERICAN: SMTS) (“Sierra Metals” or “the Company”) today reported revenue of $79.4 million and an adjusted EBITDA of $37.7 million on the throughput of 787,534 tonnes and metal production of 24.8 million copper equivalent pounds for the three-month period ended June 30, 2021. The Company saw increased metals production of all individual metals except copper in Q2 2021. However, using the formula below to calculate copper equivalent, the increased copper price lowers the total copper equivalent pounds produced.

Copper Equivalent Pounds produced = (Ag ounces Produced * Ag$) + (Pb pounds produced * Pb$) + (Zn Pounds Produced *Zn$) + (Au ounces produced *Au$) + (Cu Pounds Produced*Cu$) / Cu$

At the Yauricocha Mine, the higher throughput was partially offset by lower head grades for all metals, resulting in a 7% higher copper equivalent production as compared to Q2 2020. In terms of zinc equivalents, this was a 29% increase over the same quarter of 2020. Copper production for the quarter was 11% lower, while silver, lead, zinc and gold production increased by 35%, 22%, 54% and 23%, respectively, compared to Q2 2020. Due to COVID-19 operating restrictions, the focus has been on larger, but low-grade ore bodies to meet tonnages with a reduced workforce. As a result, mining of certain high-grade, but smaller ore bodies have been delayed while the Company continues to manage operations during the pandemic.

The Bolivar Mine processed 385,331 tonnes in Q2 2021, which is a 25% increase from the Q2 2020 throughput. The average daily throughput realized during the quarter was 4,404 tpd. Head grades for copper, silver, and gold were 8%, 27%, and 30% lower, respectively, compared to Q2 2020. Grades were negatively impacted by the inability to continue mining in the Bolivar West zone due to the COVID-19 residual delays in development and infrastructure. Production continues to be focused more on the Mina de Fierro zone in Q2 2021. Mina de Fierro is a larger ore body with greater tonnages; however, the head grades and recoveries are lower than the Bolivar West zone. Copper equivalent production for Q2 2021 decreased 8% compared to Q2 2020 because of lower silver (6%) and gold (15%) production offset by 5% higher copper production.

The Cusi Mine throughput for Q2 2021 was 73,294 tonnes or 838 tpd. There was no production during the same quarter of 2020, as Cusi remained in care and maintenance throughout that quarter due to the government-mandated shutdown to contain the advancement of COVID-19. The silver head grade for Q2 2021 was 138.94 g/t resulting in silver production of 269,000 ounces. Mined tonnage and grade were impacted by the problems related to underground water and high temperatures deemed unsafe to work in the planned mining zones. Additionally, gold production was 142 ounces, and lead production was 129,000 pounds respectively during the quarter.

Consolidated production of silver increased 67% to 1.0 million ounces, copper decreased 2% to 9.5 million pounds, lead increased 24% to 8.0 million pounds, zinc increased 54% to 21.1 million pounds, and gold increased 2% to 2,812 ounces compared to Q2 2020.

Luis Marchese, CEO of Sierra Metals, commented, “Despite the challenges we faced in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic in the second quarter, the Company continues to see improvements in consolidated throughput, revenue, EBITDA and net income over the same period in 2020 and over the previous quarter in 2021. Our teams are using best practices to manage the impact of the pandemic. However, in reflecting the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on operations in the first half of 2021, we saw the need to revise our production, cost, and EBITDA guidance to align with the outlook for the year. While Peru and Mexico are making important improvements on their vaccination efforts, COVID-19 remains an ongoing challenge, adding to our cost base and challenging some of our processes. Overall, our goal continues to be to avoid any mine closures while ensuring that strict protocols remain in place to protect the wellbeing of our employees and the local communities.”

He continued, “During the second quarter, we received the final permit required to expand the throughput at Yauricocha to 3,600 tonnes per day. Looking ahead to the remainder of 2021, we are also expanding and diversifying operations at Bolivar with the construction of a 500,000 tonne per year magnetite plant, expected to be fully operational early next year. Furthermore, we continue to work on the completion of a Preliminary Feasibility Study to evaluate a 53% throughput expansion at the Yauricocha Mine in Peru and a potential doubling of production at the Bolivar and Cusi Mines in Mexico. Finally, turning to exploration, we continue with our brownfield programs while reactivating our greenfield explorations programs, and we continue to work to improve operations and manage costs in this challenging environment.”

He concluded, “The Company continues to have a strong balance sheet and strong EBITDA to support the Company’s capital expenditures and growth initiatives at all mines, and we continue to work to improve per-share value for all shareholders. Based on our current budgeting process, and current strong metals price environment, this scenario could provide support for an attractive dividend policy.”

The following table displays selected financial and operational information for the three months ended June 30, 2021:

The following table displays average realized metal prices information for the three months ended June 30, 2021, vs June 30, 2020:

Q2 2021 Financial Highlights

Revenue from metals payable of $69.6 million in Q2 2021 increased by 25% from $55.6 million in Q2 2020. The increase in revenues was primarily driven by the increase in realized metal prices, which more than compensated for the decrease in metal payable, except zinc and lead.

Yauricocha’s cost of sales per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.53 (Q2 2020 – $0.94), cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.41 (Q2 2020 – $0.91), and AISC per copper equivalent payable pound of $2.57 (Q2 2020 – $1.80). Unit costs increased during Q2 2021 as the 5% increase in copper equivalent payable pounds could not compensate for the higher production costs during Q2 2021. It may be noted here that costs for Q2 2020 were also suppressed due to a lack of underground development activities resulting from the COVID-19 related lack of workforce at the site. AISC per copper equivalent payable pounds for Q2 2021 was also driven higher by a sharp increase in sustaining capital expenditure during the quarter compared to Q2 2020 when the Company had to curtail or defer its capital projects for cash preservation.

Bolivar’s cost of sales per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.33 (Q2 2020 – $1.01), cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.17 (Q2 2020 – $1.02), and AISC per copper equivalent payable pound was $3.27 (Q2 2020 – $1.60) for Q2 2021. Costs increased as the mine ramped up development activities. Unit costs were also impacted by the 15% decrease in the copper equivalent payable pounds during Q2 2021 compared to Q2 2020. AISC per copper equivalent payable pound was also negatively impacted by the increase in treatment and refining costs and higher sustaining capital during the quarter.

Cusi’s cost of sales per silver equivalent payable ounce was $21.90 (Q2 2020 – $16.33), cash cost per silver equivalent payable ounce was $21.67 (Q2 2020 – $18.66), and AISC per silver equivalent payable ounce was $35.73 (Q2 2020 – $26.25) for Q2 2021.

Adjusted EBITDA⁽¹⁾ increased 173% to $37.7 million for Q2 2021 from $12.6 million in the same quarter of 2020.

Net income attributable to shareholders for Q2 2021 was $9.1 million (Q2 2020: $0.2 million) or $0.06 per share (basic and diluted) (Q2 2020: $0.00).

Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders⁽¹⁾ of $12.7 million, or $0.08 per share, for Q2 2021 compared to the adjusted net income of $1.3 million, or $0.01 per share for Q2 2020.

Cash flow generated from operations before movements in working capital of $35.8 million for Q2 2021 increased compared to $13.2 million in Q2 2020. The increase resulted from higher revenue during the quarter resulting from higher realized metal prices; and

Cash and cash equivalents of $76.1 million and working capital of $62.3 million as at June 30, 2021, compared to $71.5 million and $70.9 million, respectively, at the end of 2020. Cash and cash equivalents increased as $46.6 million of cash generated from operating activities were partially used to finance capital expenditure of $34.1 million, repayment of debt installment of $6.2 million and interest payment of $1.7 million.

⁽¹⁾ This is a non-IFRS performance measure. See the Non-IFRS Performance Measures section of the MD&A.

Exploration Update

Peru:

• During the second quarter, 1,033 meters of surface exploration drilling was completed in the Triada copper porphyry target, reaching a total of 1,479 meters for the year. Additionally, 697 meters of drilling was completed in the Kilkasca zones, for a total of 921 meters for the year 2021.

• Underground exploration drilling continued during Q2 2021 with the aim to replace and increase mineral resources that were depleted during 2020 and the first half of 2021. Approximately 4,976 meters of drilling was completed in Esperanza North, Central Mine, Cachi-cachi and the high-grade cuerpos chicos.

Mexico:

Bolivar

• At Bolivar during Q2 2021, 11,377 meters were drilled in the Bolivar West, Bolivar North-West, La Montura and the Cieneguita zones encountering skarn intersections with mineralization. Additionally, infill drilling of 2,490 meters was completed in the Bolivar West zone and 2,852 meters in El Gallo Inferior.

Cusi

• During Q2 2021, the Company completed 6,518 meters of infill drilling to support the development of the Santa Rosa de Lima vein and NE Trend. In addition, 2,020 meters of surface drilling was completed to support the “San Nicolas Vein” exploration and the “Gallo vein.”

Covid-19 Update

Protecting our employees and the communities in which we operate is extremely important to us. The COVID-19 situation in Peru and Mexico remains serious and is an important factor in the daily operations. The Company continues to take proactive and reactive mitigation measures adhering to strict health protocols to minimize the potential impacts from COVID-19.

The pandemic has impacted operations as we adhere to the public health restrictions. Testing and quarantining have helped identify and keep active cases from occurring in the mines, but as a result, we are operating with a reduced workforce. This results in ongoing and residual operational issues on the Company’s ability to function effectively. These issues include delayed capital expenditures, mine development and preparation of areas for mining, maintenance and replacement of equipment, staffing, specialized technical oversight, and exploration drilling, among others.

The Peruvian and Mexican governments vaccination efforts are bringing vaccines to the population in our areas of influence, starting with the most at risk in the communities. The situation is not yet under control yet and remains a significant risk for our personnel, communities, and our business. The Company has engaged proactively with the local authorities to support their efforts and to facilitate vaccination efforts nearby our operations.

Revised Guidance

The production and financial results of the Company in the first half of 2021 were impacted by COVID-19 and operational challenges. Some of the COVID-19 issues are still ongoing or are a residual effect from previous quarters on current operations. Direct impact issues have included lower workforce availability and additional costs related to management and prevention of COVID-19. Residual effect includes delays on Mine development, which has forced production to come from lower grade, higher tonnage areas in order to reach throughput targets.

Operational challenges include Permitting delays in Yauricocha, higher treatment charges due to price participation escalators from off takers, larger than normal high temperature water flows in planned mining area at Cusi, among others. Unit costs have been negatively impacted by indirect fixed costs, which must be incurred, despite lower production.

Management believes that these issues are temporary and will not affect the Company’s results in the medium to longer term time frame. Appropriate actions are being taken to return to full operational efficiency, while continuing to manage the outstanding risks related to COVID-19.

The Company has reviewed the impact of these setbacks and has lowered its production, cost, and EBITDA guidance for 2021, as per the charts below. Copper equivalent production is now expected to fall between 110 to 115 million pounds, as summarized in the table below:

The table below summarizes the equivalent production, cash costs and AISC ranges for each of the sites:

Based on the new production and cost guidance ranges, Management has also revised its EBITDA guidance, which is now expected to range between $130 to $140 million, as per the table below:

Revised capital expenditure guidance

In April 2021, the Company announced its plan to invest in constructing an iron-ore processing plant at its Bolivar Mine to produce an iron ore concentrate. With the inclusion of this project, management are now revising capital expenditure guidance for the year from $78 million to $100 million. This additional growth capital is expected to return immediate benefits in the form of additional revenues and reduce tailings deposition and related costs.

Management will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and its impact on the production and metal prices and will provide any further updates as required.

Strategic Review Process Update

The company has strong foundations for a solid valuation in the market and return for its shareholders. Despite current challenges, the company benefits from a strong EBITDA performance at current metal prices and a solid financial position to build additional value into the future. It has a current number of exciting actionable organic growth opportunities, particularly at Bolivar and Yauricocha, and a large land package for growth in the future, both near mine and further afield.

The process is still ongoing and considering all options. We expect to be able to provide a more detailed report on the process in the coming weeks.

Conference Call and Webcast

Sierra Metals’ Senior Management will host a conference call on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at 10:30 AM (EDT) to discuss the Company’s financial and operating results for the three months ended June 30, 2021.

Via Webcast:

A live audio webcast of the meeting will be available on the Company’s website:
https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/3193745/DC7EA7F3C83E666235B780E1DAD14D0A

The webcast along with presentation slides will be archived for 180 days on www.sierrametals.com.

Via phone:

To register for this conference call, please use the link provided below. After registering, a confirmation will be sent through email, including dial-in details and unique conference call codes for entry. As well, reminders will be sent to registered participants in advance of the call. If you experience difficulty registering, please dial: (888) 869-1189 or (706) 643-5902 for extra assistance.

Registration is open throughout the live call. However, to ensure you are connected for the full call, we suggest registering a day in advance or at minimum 10 minutes before the start of the call.

Conference Call Registration Link:
http://www.directeventreg.com/registration/event/7308198

Qualified Persons

Américo Zuzunaga, FAusIMM CP (Mining Engineer) and Vice President of Corporate Planning, is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Sierra Metals

Sierra Metals Inc. is a diversified Canadian mining company focused on the production and development of precious and base metals from its polymetallic Yauricocha Mine in Peru and Bolivar and Cusi Mines in Mexico. The Company is focused on increasing production volume and growing mineral resources. Sierra Metals has recently had several new key discoveries and still has many more exciting brownfield exploration opportunities at all three Mines in Peru and Mexico that are within close proximity to the existing mines. Additionally, the Company also has large land packages at all three mines with several prospective regional targets providing longer-term exploration upside and mineral resource growth potential.

The Company’s Common Shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the Bolsa de Valores de Lima under the symbol “SMT” and on the NYSE American Exchange under the symbol “SMTS”.

For further information regarding Sierra Metals, please visit www.sierrametals.com.

Continue to Follow, Like and Watch our progress:

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Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian and U.S. securities laws related to the Company (collectively, “forward-looking information”). Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Company’s operations, including anticipated developments in the Company’s operations in future periods, the Company’s planned exploration activities, the adequacy of the Company’s financial resources, and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. Statements concerning mineral reserve and resource estimates may also be considered to constitute forward-looking statements to the extent that they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered if and when the properties are developed or further developed. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of Management. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “projects”, “estimates”, “assumes”, “intends”, “strategy”, “goals”, “objectives”, “potential” or variations thereof, or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, the risks described under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Annual Information Form dated March 30, 2021 in respect of the year ended December 31, 2020 and other risks identified in the Company’s filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which filings are available at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov, respectively.

The risk factors referred to above is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company’s forward-looking information. Forward looking information includes statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and the Company’s actual achievements or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking information due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. The Company’s statements containing forward-looking information are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of Management on the date the statements are made, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or Management’s beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, other than as required by applicable law. For the reasons set forth above, one should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Mike McAllister
V.P., Investor Relations
Sierra Metals Inc.
+1 (416) 366-7777
Email: info@sierrametals.com

Ed Guimaraes
CFO
Sierra Metals Inc.
+1(416) 366-7777

Luis Marchese
CEO
Sierra Metals Inc.
+1(416) 366-7777

Source: Sierra Metals Inc.

 

Endeavour Silver Reports Financial Results for the Second Quarter 2021; Earnings Conference Call at 10am PDT (1pm EDT) Today

 

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Endeavour Silver Corp. (NYSE: EXK; TSX: EDR) released its financial results today for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021. The Company operates three silver-gold mines in Mexico: the Guanaceví mine in Durango state, the Bolañitos mine in Guanajuato state and the El Compas mine in Zacatecas state. All amounts reported are in United States (US) dollars.

Dan Dickson, CEO, commented, “From a financial standpoint, our Q2 performance was stronger than the respective period last year, as revenue, cash flow and earnings were all higher. However, our operating costs are clearly not where we want them to be. We are working to optimize our operating cost profile in the second half of 2021.”

“This month, we plan to suspend operations at El Compas due to exhaustion of reserves. This small asset represents less than 5% of 2021 consolidated production and will not affect our progress towards attaining or surpassing our production guidance for the year. Our remaining production platform at Guanacevi and Bolañitos is strong and sustainable with excellent brownfield exploration opportunities.”

“We are pleased to enter the second half of the year with a robust cash balance of $125 million and a clean balance sheet ahead of a potential construction decision for Terronera later this year. We will be completing the Feasibility Study during Q3 with a construction decision anticipated shortly thereafter.”

2021 Second Quarter Highlights

• Metal Production: Produced 1,073,724 ounces (oz) silver, up 80% and 11,166 oz gold, up 92%, in-line with guidance for 2.0 million oz silver equivalent (AgEq), up 85%, at an 80:1 silver:gold ratio, compared to Q2, 2020 when operations were suspended due to COVID-19 for a portion of the period.
• Net Revenue: Totaled $47.7 million, up 136%, from the sale of 1,120,266 oz silver and 9,810 oz gold at average realized prices of $26.82 per oz silver and $1,866 per oz gold. Management withheld metal sales in Q1, 2021 and continues to carry higher metal inventory totaling 459,659 oz silver and 1,891 oz gold of bullion inventory and 12,159 oz silver and 944 oz gold in concentrate inventory.
• Operating Costs: Cash cost⁽¹⁾ $13.03 per oz payable silver, up 369% year-on-year and all-in sustaining cost (AISC)⁽¹⁾ $25.39 per oz payable silver, up 70% year-on-year, net of gold credits. Operating costs were higher than budgeted due to global supply chain constraints creating inflationary pressures, increased labor costs, a strengthening Mexican Peso and increased operating development at Guanacevi.
• Cash Flow: $8.7 million in cash flow from operations before working capital changes, up 358% compared to Q2, 2020. The Company continued to hold significant finished goods, increased deposits for equipment purchases, invested in exploration activities and advanced the Terronera Feasibility Study.
• Earnings: Realized earnings of $6.7 million or $0.04 per share, up sharply compared to a loss of $3.3 million in Q2, 2020 due to increased mine operating earnings, the gain on the sale of the El Cubo asset and gain on the sale of marketable securities, offset by increased exploration and evaluation activities, higher general and administrative costs and higher tax expense. Excluding the gain on sale of the El Cubo asset, the adjusted earnings are $0.8 million. At quarter end, the finished golds inventory was carried at a cost of $10.1 million compared to the fair market value of $17.3 million.

• Strong Balance Sheet: Cash position $125.2 million and working capital $146.8 million. Raised $28.4 million in equity financing through an ATM facility, net of issuance costs. Only remaining term liabilities are equipment loans of $7.8 million.

• Completed the Sale of El Cubo: The transaction closed on April 9, 2021 for $19.8 million in cash and share payments with up to $3 million in contingent payments payable by Guanajuato Silver (previously Vangold Mining Corp).

Subsequent to the End of the Second Quarter 2021:

• Suspension of Operations at El Compas: The Company has decided to suspend mining and milling operations at El Compas in August. Mining assets and key talent will be transferred within the Company to Bolañitos and Terronera. The associated suspension costs are estimated to be $1.3 million, including $1.0 million in severance, to be incurred over the remainder of the year. Management is currently evaluating its alternatives for the assets.
• Agreement to Acquire Bruner Gold Project from Canamex: strategic acquisition opportunity for an advanced stage exploration property in a favorable jurisdiction for $10 million in cash. The agreement is subject to Canamex shareholder approval in Q3 (see EDR news release dated July 19, 2021).

(1)   Mine operating cash flow, cash costs and all-in sustaining costs are non-IFRS measures. Please refer to the definitions in the Company’s Management Discussion & Analysis.

Financial Overview

In Q2 2021, net revenue increased 136% to $47.7 million as a result of higher metal prices and increased production. Mine operating cash flows, operating cash flows and EBITDA increased significantly compared to Q2, 2020. For a period in Q2, 2020, the mine operations were suspended due to government decree to stop the spread of COVID-19.

The Company recognized earnings of $6.7 million compared to a loss of $3.3 million in Q2, 2020. A gain of $5.8 million was recognized on the sale of the El Cubo mine and related assets and liabilities.

Cost of sales for Q2, 2021 was $37.5 million, an increase of 109% over the cost of sales of $17.1 million for the same period of 2020. The increase in cost of sales was primarily related to the 76% increase in silver ounces sold, significantly higher royalty costs, labour costs and additional costs attributed to global supply constraints. Royalties increased 438% from $0.8 million to $4.3 million due to higher production and realized prices and the increased mining of the high grade Porvenir Cuatro extensions at the Guanaceví operation, which are subject to the significantly higher royalty rates.

The Company slightly decreased its finished goods silver and increased its finished goods gold inventory to 459,659oz and 1,891 oz, respectively at June 30, 2021 compared to 529,817 oz silver and 1,689 oz gold at March 31, 2021. The cost allocated to these finished goods was $10.1 million at June 30, 2021, compared to $8.0 million at March 31, 2021. At June 30, 2021, the finished goods inventory fair market value was $17.3 million, compared to $15.9 million at March 31, 2021.

Financial Results (Consolidated Statement of Operations Appended Below)

For the period ended June 30, 2021, the Company generated net revenue of $47.7 million an increase of 136% compared to $20.2 million. Gross sales of $48.3 million in Q2, 2021 represented a 136% increase over the $20.5 million for the same period in 2020. There was a 76% increase in silver ounces sold and a 57% increase in the realized silver price resulting in a 179% increase to silver sales. Similarly, there was an 88% increase in gold ounces sold at prices similar to the prior year resulting in an 88% increase in gold sales. During the period, the Company sold 1,120,266 oz silver and 9,810 oz gold, for realized prices of $26.82 and $1,866 per oz, respectively, compared to sales of 634,839 oz silver and 5,218 oz gold, for realized prices of $17.04 and $1,862 per oz, respectively, in the same period of 2020. For the three months ended June 30, 2021, silver and gold spot prices averaged $26.69 and $1,816, respectively.

After cost of sales of $37.5 million (Q2, 2020 – $17.1 million), mine operating earnings amounted to a $10.2 million (Q2, 2020 –$3.1 million) from mining and milling operations in Mexico.

Excluding depreciation and depletion of $6.6 million (Q2, 2020 – $3.9 million), stock-based compensation of $0.1 million (Q2, 2020- $0.1 million) and a write-down of inventory of $0.3 million (Q2, 2020 – $0.5 million), mine operating cash flow before taxes was $17.2 million in Q2, 2021 (Q2, 2020 – $7.6 million). Operating earnings were $0.8 million (Q2, 2020 – loss of $4.6 million) after exploration and evaluation expenditures of $5.0 million (Q2, 2020 – $1.7 million), general and administrative expense of $4.3 million (Q2, 2020 – $3.1 million) and care and maintenance costs of $0.1 million (Q2, 2020 – $2.9 million).

Net earnings amounted to $6.7 million ($0.04 per share) compared to a net loss of $3.3 million (loss of $0.02 per share) in Q2, 2020.

Current income tax expense increased to $2.2 million (Q2 2020 – $0.2 million) due to increased profitability impacting special mining duty, while deferred income tax expense of $1.1 million was recognized due to the estimated use of loss carry forwards to reduce taxable income at Guanacevi (Q2 2020 – $0.5 million deferred income tax recovery).

Direct operating costs per tonne in Q2, 2021 increased 18%, to $119.94 compared with Q2, 2020 due to higher operating costs at all operations. The operations have seen a strengthening of the Mexican Peso, increased labour costs, increased third party ore purchased and increased operating development at Guanaceví compared to prior year and budgeted. Including royalties and special mining duty, direct costs per tonne increased 29% to $141.61. Royalties increase 1,781% to $4.3 million as increased production from the El Curso and El Porvenir concessions at Guanaceví with higher prices substantially increased the royalty expense. The improved profitability increased special mining duty expense to $0.9 million for Q2, 2021, which was negligible in Q2, 2020.

Consolidated cash costs per ounce, net of by-product credits (a non-IFRS measure and a standard of the Silver Institute) increased to $13.03 due to the increased direct costs per tonne. All-in sustaining costs (also a non-IFRS measure) increased to $25.39 per ounce in Q2, 2021 as a result of higher corporate general and administrative costs, increased mine site expensed exploration and increased capital expenditures at Guanaceví to accelerate mine development within the El Curso ore body. In Q2, 2021 corporate general and administrative included a $1.6 million mark to market expense of deferred share units expense whereas the mark to market expense was $1.1 million in Q2, 2020.

The Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion & Analysis can be viewed on the Company’s website at www.edrsilver.com, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

Conference Call

A conference call to discuss these results will be held today, Tuesday, August 10 at 10am PDT (1pm EDT). To participate in the conference call, please dial the numbers below. No pass-code is necessary.

Toll-free in Canada and the US: 1-800-319-4610
Local Vancouver: 604-638-5340
Outside of Canada and the US: +-604-638-5340

A replay of the conference call will be available by dialing 1-800-319-6413 in Canada and the US (toll-free) or +604-638-9010 outside of Canada and the US. The required pass-code is 7318 #. The replay will also be available on the Company’s website at www.edrsilver.com.

About Endeavour Silver – Endeavour Silver Corp. is a mid-tier precious metals mining company that owns and operates three high-grade, underground, silver-gold mines in Mexico. Endeavour is currently advancing the Terronera mine project towards a development decision and exploring its portfolio of exploration and development projects in Mexico and Chile to facilitate its goal to become a premier senior silver producer.  Our philosophy of corporate social integrity creates value for all stakeholders.

SOURCE Endeavour Silver Corp.

Contact Information:
Galina Meleger, Vice President, Investor Relations
Toll free: (877) 685-9775
Tel: (604) 640-4804
Email: gmeleger@edrsilver.com  
Website: www.edrsilver.com

Follow Endeavour Silver on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States private securities litigation reform act of 1995 and “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding Endeavour’s anticipated performance in 2021 including changes in mining operations and production levels, the timing and results of various activities and the impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on operations. The Company does not intend to and does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, production levels, performance or achievements of Endeavour and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include but are not limited to the ultimate impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on operations and results, changes in production and costs guidance, national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and Mexico; financial risks due to precious metals prices, operating or technical difficulties in mineral exploration, development and mining activities; risks and hazards of mineral exploration, development and mining; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and challenges to the Company’s title to properties; as well as those factors described in the section “risk factors” contained in the Company’s most recent form 40F/Annual Information Form filed with the S.E.C. and Canadian securities regulatory authorities.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to: the continued operation of the Company’s mining operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, mining operations will operate and the mining products will be completed in accordance with management’s expectations and achieve their stated production outcomes, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
COMPARATIVE HIGHLIGHTS

The above highlights are key measures used by management, however they should not be the sole measures used in determining the performance of the Company’s operations. The related definitions and reconciliations are contained in the Management Discussion and Analysis.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(expressed in thousands in U.S. dollars)

This statement should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2021 and the related notes contained therein.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(expressed in thousands in U.S. dollars, except for share and per share amounts)

This statement should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2021 and the related notes contained therein.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(expressed in thousands in U.S. dollars, except for share and per share amounts)

This statement should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2021 and the related notes contained therein.

Source: Endeavour Silver Corporation

 

Endeavour Silver Reports Financial Results for the Second Quarter 2021; Earnings Conference Call at 10am PDT (1pm EDT) Today

 

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Aug. 10, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Endeavour Silver Corp. (NYSE: EXK; TSX: EDR) released its financial results today for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021. The Company operates three silver-gold mines in Mexico: the Guanaceví mine in Durango state, the Bolañitos mine in Guanajuato state and the El Compas mine in Zacatecas state. All amounts reported are in United States (US) dollars.

Dan Dickson, CEO, commented, “From a financial standpoint, our Q2 performance was stronger than the respective period last year, as revenue, cash flow and earnings were all higher. However, our operating costs are clearly not where we want them to be. We are working to optimize our operating cost profile in the second half of 2021.”

“This month, we plan to suspend operations at El Compas due to exhaustion of reserves. This small asset represents less than 5% of 2021 consolidated production and will not affect our progress towards attaining or surpassing our production guidance for the year. Our remaining production platform at Guanacevi and Bolañitos is strong and sustainable with excellent brownfield exploration opportunities.”

“We are pleased to enter the second half of the year with a robust cash balance of $125 million and a clean balance sheet ahead of a potential construction decision for Terronera later this year. We will be completing the Feasibility Study during Q3 with a construction decision anticipated shortly thereafter.”

2021 Second Quarter Highlights

• Metal Production: Produced 1,073,724 ounces (oz) silver, up 80% and 11,166 oz gold, up 92%, in-line with guidance for 2.0 million oz silver equivalent (AgEq), up 85%, at an 80:1 silver:gold ratio, compared to Q2, 2020 when operations were suspended due to COVID-19 for a portion of the period.
• Net Revenue: Totaled $47.7 million, up 136%, from the sale of 1,120,266 oz silver and 9,810 oz gold at average realized prices of $26.82 per oz silver and $1,866 per oz gold. Management withheld metal sales in Q1, 2021 and continues to carry higher metal inventory totaling 459,659 oz silver and 1,891 oz gold of bullion inventory and 12,159 oz silver and 944 oz gold in concentrate inventory.
• Operating Costs: Cash cost⁽¹⁾ $13.03 per oz payable silver, up 369% year-on-year and all-in sustaining cost (AISC)⁽¹⁾ $25.39 per oz payable silver, up 70% year-on-year, net of gold credits. Operating costs were higher than budgeted due to global supply chain constraints creating inflationary pressures, increased labor costs, a strengthening Mexican Peso and increased operating development at Guanacevi.
• Cash Flow: $8.7 million in cash flow from operations before working capital changes, up 358% compared to Q2, 2020. The Company continued to hold significant finished goods, increased deposits for equipment purchases, invested in exploration activities and advanced the Terronera Feasibility Study.
• Earnings: Realized earnings of $6.7 million or $0.04 per share, up sharply compared to a loss of $3.3 million in Q2, 2020 due to increased mine operating earnings, the gain on the sale of the El Cubo asset and gain on the sale of marketable securities, offset by increased exploration and evaluation activities, higher general and administrative costs and higher tax expense. Excluding the gain on sale of the El Cubo asset, the adjusted earnings are $0.8 million. At quarter end, the finished golds inventory was carried at a cost of $10.1 million compared to the fair market value of $17.3 million.

• Strong Balance Sheet: Cash position $125.2 million and working capital $146.8 million. Raised $28.4 million in equity financing through an ATM facility, net of issuance costs. Only remaining term liabilities are equipment loans of $7.8 million.

• Completed the Sale of El Cubo: The transaction closed on April 9, 2021 for $19.8 million in cash and share payments with up to $3 million in contingent payments payable by Guanajuato Silver (previously Vangold Mining Corp).

Subsequent to the End of the Second Quarter 2021:

• Suspension of Operations at El Compas: The Company has decided to suspend mining and milling operations at El Compas in August. Mining assets and key talent will be transferred within the Company to Bolañitos and Terronera. The associated suspension costs are estimated to be $1.3 million, including $1.0 million in severance, to be incurred over the remainder of the year. Management is currently evaluating its alternatives for the assets.
• Agreement to Acquire Bruner Gold Project from Canamex: strategic acquisition opportunity for an advanced stage exploration property in a favorable jurisdiction for $10 million in cash. The agreement is subject to Canamex shareholder approval in Q3 (see EDR news release dated July 19, 2021).

(1)   Mine operating cash flow, cash costs and all-in sustaining costs are non-IFRS measures. Please refer to the definitions in the Company’s Management Discussion & Analysis.

Financial Overview

In Q2 2021, net revenue increased 136% to $47.7 million as a result of higher metal prices and increased production. Mine operating cash flows, operating cash flows and EBITDA increased significantly compared to Q2, 2020. For a period in Q2, 2020, the mine operations were suspended due to government decree to stop the spread of COVID-19.

The Company recognized earnings of $6.7 million compared to a loss of $3.3 million in Q2, 2020. A gain of $5.8 million was recognized on the sale of the El Cubo mine and related assets and liabilities.

Cost of sales for Q2, 2021 was $37.5 million, an increase of 109% over the cost of sales of $17.1 million for the same period of 2020. The increase in cost of sales was primarily related to the 76% increase in silver ounces sold, significantly higher royalty costs, labour costs and additional costs attributed to global supply constraints. Royalties increased 438% from $0.8 million to $4.3 million due to higher production and realized prices and the increased mining of the high grade Porvenir Cuatro extensions at the Guanaceví operation, which are subject to the significantly higher royalty rates.

The Company slightly decreased its finished goods silver and increased its finished goods gold inventory to 459,659oz and 1,891 oz, respectively at June 30, 2021 compared to 529,817 oz silver and 1,689 oz gold at March 31, 2021. The cost allocated to these finished goods was $10.1 million at June 30, 2021, compared to $8.0 million at March 31, 2021. At June 30, 2021, the finished goods inventory fair market value was $17.3 million, compared to $15.9 million at March 31, 2021.

Financial Results (Consolidated Statement of Operations Appended Below)

For the period ended June 30, 2021, the Company generated net revenue of $47.7 million an increase of 136% compared to $20.2 million. Gross sales of $48.3 million in Q2, 2021 represented a 136% increase over the $20.5 million for the same period in 2020. There was a 76% increase in silver ounces sold and a 57% increase in the realized silver price resulting in a 179% increase to silver sales. Similarly, there was an 88% increase in gold ounces sold at prices similar to the prior year resulting in an 88% increase in gold sales. During the period, the Company sold 1,120,266 oz silver and 9,810 oz gold, for realized prices of $26.82 and $1,866 per oz, respectively, compared to sales of 634,839 oz silver and 5,218 oz gold, for realized prices of $17.04 and $1,862 per oz, respectively, in the same period of 2020. For the three months ended June 30, 2021, silver and gold spot prices averaged $26.69 and $1,816, respectively.

After cost of sales of $37.5 million (Q2, 2020 – $17.1 million), mine operating earnings amounted to a $10.2 million (Q2, 2020 –$3.1 million) from mining and milling operations in Mexico.

Excluding depreciation and depletion of $6.6 million (Q2, 2020 – $3.9 million), stock-based compensation of $0.1 million (Q2, 2020- $0.1 million) and a write-down of inventory of $0.3 million (Q2, 2020 – $0.5 million), mine operating cash flow before taxes was $17.2 million in Q2, 2021 (Q2, 2020 – $7.6 million). Operating earnings were $0.8 million (Q2, 2020 – loss of $4.6 million) after exploration and evaluation expenditures of $5.0 million (Q2, 2020 – $1.7 million), general and administrative expense of $4.3 million (Q2, 2020 – $3.1 million) and care and maintenance costs of $0.1 million (Q2, 2020 – $2.9 million).

Net earnings amounted to $6.7 million ($0.04 per share) compared to a net loss of $3.3 million (loss of $0.02 per share) in Q2, 2020.

Current income tax expense increased to $2.2 million (Q2 2020 – $0.2 million) due to increased profitability impacting special mining duty, while deferred income tax expense of $1.1 million was recognized due to the estimated use of loss carry forwards to reduce taxable income at Guanacevi (Q2 2020 – $0.5 million deferred income tax recovery).

Direct operating costs per tonne in Q2, 2021 increased 18%, to $119.94 compared with Q2, 2020 due to higher operating costs at all operations. The operations have seen a strengthening of the Mexican Peso, increased labour costs, increased third party ore purchased and increased operating development at Guanaceví compared to prior year and budgeted. Including royalties and special mining duty, direct costs per tonne increased 29% to $141.61. Royalties increase 1,781% to $4.3 million as increased production from the El Curso and El Porvenir concessions at Guanaceví with higher prices substantially increased the royalty expense. The improved profitability increased special mining duty expense to $0.9 million for Q2, 2021, which was negligible in Q2, 2020.

Consolidated cash costs per ounce, net of by-product credits (a non-IFRS measure and a standard of the Silver Institute) increased to $13.03 due to the increased direct costs per tonne. All-in sustaining costs (also a non-IFRS measure) increased to $25.39 per ounce in Q2, 2021 as a result of higher corporate general and administrative costs, increased mine site expensed exploration and increased capital expenditures at Guanaceví to accelerate mine development within the El Curso ore body. In Q2, 2021 corporate general and administrative included a $1.6 million mark to market expense of deferred share units expense whereas the mark to market expense was $1.1 million in Q2, 2020.

The Condensed Consolidated Interim Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion & Analysis can be viewed on the Company’s website at www.edrsilver.com, on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

Conference Call

A conference call to discuss these results will be held today, Tuesday, August 10 at 10am PDT (1pm EDT). To participate in the conference call, please dial the numbers below. No pass-code is necessary.

Toll-free in Canada and the US: 1-800-319-4610
Local Vancouver: 604-638-5340
Outside of Canada and the US: +-604-638-5340

A replay of the conference call will be available by dialing 1-800-319-6413 in Canada and the US (toll-free) or +604-638-9010 outside of Canada and the US. The required pass-code is 7318 #. The replay will also be available on the Company’s website at www.edrsilver.com.

About Endeavour Silver – Endeavour Silver Corp. is a mid-tier precious metals mining company that owns and operates three high-grade, underground, silver-gold mines in Mexico. Endeavour is currently advancing the Terronera mine project towards a development decision and exploring its portfolio of exploration and development projects in Mexico and Chile to facilitate its goal to become a premier senior silver producer.  Our philosophy of corporate social integrity creates value for all stakeholders.

SOURCE Endeavour Silver Corp.

Contact Information:
Galina Meleger, Vice President, Investor Relations
Toll free: (877) 685-9775
Tel: (604) 640-4804
Email: gmeleger@edrsilver.com  
Website: www.edrsilver.com

Follow Endeavour Silver on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States private securities litigation reform act of 1995 and “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Such forward-looking statements and information herein include but are not limited to statements regarding Endeavour’s anticipated performance in 2021 including changes in mining operations and production levels, the timing and results of various activities and the impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on operations. The Company does not intend to and does not assume any obligation to update such forward-looking statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.

Forward-looking statements or information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, production levels, performance or achievements of Endeavour and its operations to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such factors include but are not limited to the ultimate impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on operations and results, changes in production and costs guidance, national and local governments, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in Canada and Mexico; financial risks due to precious metals prices, operating or technical difficulties in mineral exploration, development and mining activities; risks and hazards of mineral exploration, development and mining; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, risks in obtaining necessary licenses and permits, and challenges to the Company’s title to properties; as well as those factors described in the section “risk factors” contained in the Company’s most recent form 40F/Annual Information Form filed with the S.E.C. and Canadian securities regulatory authorities.

Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to: the continued operation of the Company’s mining operations, no material adverse change in the market price of commodities, mining operations will operate and the mining products will be completed in accordance with management’s expectations and achieve their stated production outcomes, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or information, there may be other factors that cause results to be materially different from those anticipated, described, estimated, assessed or intended. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
COMPARATIVE HIGHLIGHTS

The above highlights are key measures used by management, however they should not be the sole measures used in determining the performance of the Company’s operations. The related definitions and reconciliations are contained in the Management Discussion and Analysis.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(expressed in thousands in U.S. dollars)

This statement should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2021 and the related notes contained therein.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(expressed in thousands in U.S. dollars, except for share and per share amounts)

This statement should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2021 and the related notes contained therein.

ENDEAVOUR SILVER CORP.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(expressed in thousands in U.S. dollars, except for share and per share amounts)

This statement should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated interim financial statements for the period ended June 30, 2021 and the related notes contained therein.

Source: Endeavour Silver Corporation

Sierra Metals Reports Consolidated Financial Results for the Second Quarter of 2021 and Provides Revised Guidance for 2021

 

Conference Call August 10, 2021, at 10:30 AM (EDT)

(All $ figures reported in USD)

• Revenue from metals payable of $79.4 million in Q2 2021, a 90% increase from $41.9 million in Q2 2020
• Operating cash flows before movements in working capital of $35.8 million in Q2 2021, a 171% increase from $13.2 million in Q2 2020
• Adjusted EBITDA of $37.7 million in Q2 2021, a 173% increase from $12.6 million in Q2 2021
• Record quarterly throughput at the Yauricocha Mine in Peru
• Q2 2021 consolidated production includes 9.5 million pounds of copper, a 2% decrease; 1.0 million ounces of silver, a 67% increase; 21.1 million pounds of zinc, a 54% increase; 8.0 million pounds of lead, a 24% increase; and 2,812 ounces of gold, a 2% increase respectively, compared to Q2 2020. Copper production decreased due to mining of lower-grade zones in Yauricocha and Bolivar
• Cash costs and All-in Sustaining Costs (“AISC”) per copper equivalent payable pound of $1.41 and $1.57 respectively compared to Q2 2020 cash costs of $0.91 and AISC of $1.80 at the Yauricocha Mine; cash costs and AISC per copper equivalent payable pound of $1.17 and $3.27 respectively compared to Q2 2020 cash costs of $1.02 and AISC of $1.60 at the Bolivar Mine; cash costs and AISC per silver equivalent payable ounce of $21.67 and $35.73 respectively compared to Q2 2020 cash costs of $18.66 and AISC of $26.25 at the Cusi Mine; cash costs increased during Q2 2021 due to the ongoing COVID-19 related impact on operations, while AISC was driven higher by the increase in sustaining capital expenditure, as the mines tried to catch up on the capital expenditure deferred during the recent quarters.
• $76.1 million of cash and cash equivalents as at June 30, 2021
• A shareholder conference call to be held Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at 10:30 AM (EDT)

 

TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Sierra Metals Inc. (TSX: SMT) (BVL: SMT) (NYSE AMERICAN: SMTS) (“Sierra Metals” or “the Company”) today reported revenue of $79.4 million and an adjusted EBITDA of $37.7 million on the throughput of 787,534 tonnes and metal production of 24.8 million copper equivalent pounds for the three-month period ended June 30, 2021. The Company saw increased metals production of all individual metals except copper in Q2 2021. However, using the formula below to calculate copper equivalent, the increased copper price lowers the total copper equivalent pounds produced.

Copper Equivalent Pounds produced = (Ag ounces Produced * Ag$) + (Pb pounds produced * Pb$) + (Zn Pounds Produced *Zn$) + (Au ounces produced *Au$) + (Cu Pounds Produced*Cu$) / Cu$

At the Yauricocha Mine, the higher throughput was partially offset by lower head grades for all metals, resulting in a 7% higher copper equivalent production as compared to Q2 2020. In terms of zinc equivalents, this was a 29% increase over the same quarter of 2020. Copper production for the quarter was 11% lower, while silver, lead, zinc and gold production increased by 35%, 22%, 54% and 23%, respectively, compared to Q2 2020. Due to COVID-19 operating restrictions, the focus has been on larger, but low-grade ore bodies to meet tonnages with a reduced workforce. As a result, mining of certain high-grade, but smaller ore bodies have been delayed while the Company continues to manage operations during the pandemic.

The Bolivar Mine processed 385,331 tonnes in Q2 2021, which is a 25% increase from the Q2 2020 throughput. The average daily throughput realized during the quarter was 4,404 tpd. Head grades for copper, silver, and gold were 8%, 27%, and 30% lower, respectively, compared to Q2 2020. Grades were negatively impacted by the inability to continue mining in the Bolivar West zone due to the COVID-19 residual delays in development and infrastructure. Production continues to be focused more on the Mina de Fierro zone in Q2 2021. Mina de Fierro is a larger ore body with greater tonnages; however, the head grades and recoveries are lower than the Bolivar West zone. Copper equivalent production for Q2 2021 decreased 8% compared to Q2 2020 because of lower silver (6%) and gold (15%) production offset by 5% higher copper production.

The Cusi Mine throughput for Q2 2021 was 73,294 tonnes or 838 tpd. There was no production during the same quarter of 2020, as Cusi remained in care and maintenance throughout that quarter due to the government-mandated shutdown to contain the advancement of COVID-19. The silver head grade for Q2 2021 was 138.94 g/t resulting in silver production of 269,000 ounces. Mined tonnage and grade were impacted by the problems related to underground water and high temperatures deemed unsafe to work in the planned mining zones. Additionally, gold production was 142 ounces, and lead production was 129,000 pounds respectively during the quarter.

Consolidated production of silver increased 67% to 1.0 million ounces, copper decreased 2% to 9.5 million pounds, lead increased 24% to 8.0 million pounds, zinc increased 54% to 21.1 million pounds, and gold increased 2% to 2,812 ounces compared to Q2 2020.

Luis Marchese, CEO of Sierra Metals, commented, “Despite the challenges we faced in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic in the second quarter, the Company continues to see improvements in consolidated throughput, revenue, EBITDA and net income over the same period in 2020 and over the previous quarter in 2021. Our teams are using best practices to manage the impact of the pandemic. However, in reflecting the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on operations in the first half of 2021, we saw the need to revise our production, cost, and EBITDA guidance to align with the outlook for the year. While Peru and Mexico are making important improvements on their vaccination efforts, COVID-19 remains an ongoing challenge, adding to our cost base and challenging some of our processes. Overall, our goal continues to be to avoid any mine closures while ensuring that strict protocols remain in place to protect the wellbeing of our employees and the local communities.”

He continued, “During the second quarter, we received the final permit required to expand the throughput at Yauricocha to 3,600 tonnes per day. Looking ahead to the remainder of 2021, we are also expanding and diversifying operations at Bolivar with the construction of a 500,000 tonne per year magnetite plant, expected to be fully operational early next year. Furthermore, we continue to work on the completion of a Preliminary Feasibility Study to evaluate a 53% throughput expansion at the Yauricocha Mine in Peru and a potential doubling of production at the Bolivar and Cusi Mines in Mexico. Finally, turning to exploration, we continue with our brownfield programs while reactivating our greenfield explorations programs, and we continue to work to improve operations and manage costs in this challenging environment.”

He concluded, “The Company continues to have a strong balance sheet and strong EBITDA to support the Company’s capital expenditures and growth initiatives at all mines, and we continue to work to improve per-share value for all shareholders. Based on our current budgeting process, and current strong metals price environment, this scenario could provide support for an attractive dividend policy.”

The following table displays selected financial and operational information for the three months ended June 30, 2021:

The following table displays average realized metal prices information for the three months ended June 30, 2021, vs June 30, 2020:

Q2 2021 Financial Highlights

Revenue from metals payable of $69.6 million in Q2 2021 increased by 25% from $55.6 million in Q2 2020. The increase in revenues was primarily driven by the increase in realized metal prices, which more than compensated for the decrease in metal payable, except zinc and lead.

Yauricocha’s cost of sales per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.53 (Q2 2020 – $0.94), cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.41 (Q2 2020 – $0.91), and AISC per copper equivalent payable pound of $2.57 (Q2 2020 – $1.80). Unit costs increased during Q2 2021 as the 5% increase in copper equivalent payable pounds could not compensate for the higher production costs during Q2 2021. It may be noted here that costs for Q2 2020 were also suppressed due to a lack of underground development activities resulting from the COVID-19 related lack of workforce at the site. AISC per copper equivalent payable pounds for Q2 2021 was also driven higher by a sharp increase in sustaining capital expenditure during the quarter compared to Q2 2020 when the Company had to curtail or defer its capital projects for cash preservation.

Bolivar’s cost of sales per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.33 (Q2 2020 – $1.01), cash cost per copper equivalent payable pound was $1.17 (Q2 2020 – $1.02), and AISC per copper equivalent payable pound was $3.27 (Q2 2020 – $1.60) for Q2 2021. Costs increased as the mine ramped up development activities. Unit costs were also impacted by the 15% decrease in the copper equivalent payable pounds during Q2 2021 compared to Q2 2020. AISC per copper equivalent payable pound was also negatively impacted by the increase in treatment and refining costs and higher sustaining capital during the quarter.

Cusi’s cost of sales per silver equivalent payable ounce was $21.90 (Q2 2020 – $16.33), cash cost per silver equivalent payable ounce was $21.67 (Q2 2020 – $18.66), and AISC per silver equivalent payable ounce was $35.73 (Q2 2020 – $26.25) for Q2 2021.

Adjusted EBITDA⁽¹⁾ increased 173% to $37.7 million for Q2 2021 from $12.6 million in the same quarter of 2020.

Net income attributable to shareholders for Q2 2021 was $9.1 million (Q2 2020: $0.2 million) or $0.06 per share (basic and diluted) (Q2 2020: $0.00).

Adjusted net income attributable to shareholders⁽¹⁾ of $12.7 million, or $0.08 per share, for Q2 2021 compared to the adjusted net income of $1.3 million, or $0.01 per share for Q2 2020.

Cash flow generated from operations before movements in working capital of $35.8 million for Q2 2021 increased compared to $13.2 million in Q2 2020. The increase resulted from higher revenue during the quarter resulting from higher realized metal prices; and

Cash and cash equivalents of $76.1 million and working capital of $62.3 million as at June 30, 2021, compared to $71.5 million and $70.9 million, respectively, at the end of 2020. Cash and cash equivalents increased as $46.6 million of cash generated from operating activities were partially used to finance capital expenditure of $34.1 million, repayment of debt installment of $6.2 million and interest payment of $1.7 million.

⁽¹⁾ This is a non-IFRS performance measure. See the Non-IFRS Performance Measures section of the MD&A.

Exploration Update

Peru:

• During the second quarter, 1,033 meters of surface exploration drilling was completed in the Triada copper porphyry target, reaching a total of 1,479 meters for the year. Additionally, 697 meters of drilling was completed in the Kilkasca zones, for a total of 921 meters for the year 2021.

• Underground exploration drilling continued during Q2 2021 with the aim to replace and increase mineral resources that were depleted during 2020 and the first half of 2021. Approximately 4,976 meters of drilling was completed in Esperanza North, Central Mine, Cachi-cachi and the high-grade cuerpos chicos.

Mexico:

Bolivar

• At Bolivar during Q2 2021, 11,377 meters were drilled in the Bolivar West, Bolivar North-West, La Montura and the Cieneguita zones encountering skarn intersections with mineralization. Additionally, infill drilling of 2,490 meters was completed in the Bolivar West zone and 2,852 meters in El Gallo Inferior.

Cusi

• During Q2 2021, the Company completed 6,518 meters of infill drilling to support the development of the Santa Rosa de Lima vein and NE Trend. In addition, 2,020 meters of surface drilling was completed to support the “San Nicolas Vein” exploration and the “Gallo vein.”

Covid-19 Update

Protecting our employees and the communities in which we operate is extremely important to us. The COVID-19 situation in Peru and Mexico remains serious and is an important factor in the daily operations. The Company continues to take proactive and reactive mitigation measures adhering to strict health protocols to minimize the potential impacts from COVID-19.

The pandemic has impacted operations as we adhere to the public health restrictions. Testing and quarantining have helped identify and keep active cases from occurring in the mines, but as a result, we are operating with a reduced workforce. This results in ongoing and residual operational issues on the Company’s ability to function effectively. These issues include delayed capital expenditures, mine development and preparation of areas for mining, maintenance and replacement of equipment, staffing, specialized technical oversight, and exploration drilling, among others.

The Peruvian and Mexican governments vaccination efforts are bringing vaccines to the population in our areas of influence, starting with the most at risk in the communities. The situation is not yet under control yet and remains a significant risk for our personnel, communities, and our business. The Company has engaged proactively with the local authorities to support their efforts and to facilitate vaccination efforts nearby our operations.

Revised Guidance

The production and financial results of the Company in the first half of 2021 were impacted by COVID-19 and operational challenges. Some of the COVID-19 issues are still ongoing or are a residual effect from previous quarters on current operations. Direct impact issues have included lower workforce availability and additional costs related to management and prevention of COVID-19. Residual effect includes delays on Mine development, which has forced production to come from lower grade, higher tonnage areas in order to reach throughput targets.

Operational challenges include Permitting delays in Yauricocha, higher treatment charges due to price participation escalators from off takers, larger than normal high temperature water flows in planned mining area at Cusi, among others. Unit costs have been negatively impacted by indirect fixed costs, which must be incurred, despite lower production.

Management believes that these issues are temporary and will not affect the Company’s results in the medium to longer term time frame. Appropriate actions are being taken to return to full operational efficiency, while continuing to manage the outstanding risks related to COVID-19.

The Company has reviewed the impact of these setbacks and has lowered its production, cost, and EBITDA guidance for 2021, as per the charts below. Copper equivalent production is now expected to fall between 110 to 115 million pounds, as summarized in the table below:

The table below summarizes the equivalent production, cash costs and AISC ranges for each of the sites:

Based on the new production and cost guidance ranges, Management has also revised its EBITDA guidance, which is now expected to range between $130 to $140 million, as per the table below:

Revised capital expenditure guidance

In April 2021, the Company announced its plan to invest in constructing an iron-ore processing plant at its Bolivar Mine to produce an iron ore concentrate. With the inclusion of this project, management are now revising capital expenditure guidance for the year from $78 million to $100 million. This additional growth capital is expected to return immediate benefits in the form of additional revenues and reduce tailings deposition and related costs.

Management will continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation and its impact on the production and metal prices and will provide any further updates as required.

Strategic Review Process Update

The company has strong foundations for a solid valuation in the market and return for its shareholders. Despite current challenges, the company benefits from a strong EBITDA performance at current metal prices and a solid financial position to build additional value into the future. It has a current number of exciting actionable organic growth opportunities, particularly at Bolivar and Yauricocha, and a large land package for growth in the future, both near mine and further afield.

The process is still ongoing and considering all options. We expect to be able to provide a more detailed report on the process in the coming weeks.

Conference Call and Webcast

Sierra Metals’ Senior Management will host a conference call on Tuesday, August 10, 2021, at 10:30 AM (EDT) to discuss the Company’s financial and operating results for the three months ended June 30, 2021.

Via Webcast:

A live audio webcast of the meeting will be available on the Company’s website:
https://event.on24.com/wcc/r/3193745/DC7EA7F3C83E666235B780E1DAD14D0A

The webcast along with presentation slides will be archived for 180 days on www.sierrametals.com.

Via phone:

To register for this conference call, please use the link provided below. After registering, a confirmation will be sent through email, including dial-in details and unique conference call codes for entry. As well, reminders will be sent to registered participants in advance of the call. If you experience difficulty registering, please dial: (888) 869-1189 or (706) 643-5902 for extra assistance.

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Qualified Persons

Américo Zuzunaga, FAusIMM CP (Mining Engineer) and Vice President of Corporate Planning, is a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Sierra Metals

Sierra Metals Inc. is a diversified Canadian mining company focused on the production and development of precious and base metals from its polymetallic Yauricocha Mine in Peru and Bolivar and Cusi Mines in Mexico. The Company is focused on increasing production volume and growing mineral resources. Sierra Metals has recently had several new key discoveries and still has many more exciting brownfield exploration opportunities at all three Mines in Peru and Mexico that are within close proximity to the existing mines. Additionally, the Company also has large land packages at all three mines with several prospective regional targets providing longer-term exploration upside and mineral resource growth potential.

The Company’s Common Shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the Bolsa de Valores de Lima under the symbol “SMT” and on the NYSE American Exchange under the symbol “SMTS”.

For further information regarding Sierra Metals, please visit www.sierrametals.com.

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Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Canadian and U.S. securities laws related to the Company (collectively, “forward-looking information”). Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the Company’s operations, including anticipated developments in the Company’s operations in future periods, the Company’s planned exploration activities, the adequacy of the Company’s financial resources, and other events or conditions that may occur in the future. Statements concerning mineral reserve and resource estimates may also be considered to constitute forward-looking statements to the extent that they involve estimates of the mineralization that will be encountered if and when the properties are developed or further developed. These statements relate to analyses and other information that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of Management. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “projects”, “estimates”, “assumes”, “intends”, “strategy”, “goals”, “objectives”, “potential” or variations thereof, or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking information, including, without limitation, the risks described under the heading “Risk Factors” in our Annual Information Form dated March 30, 2021 in respect of the year ended December 31, 2020 and other risks identified in the Company’s filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which filings are available at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov, respectively.

The risk factors referred to above is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company’s forward-looking information. Forward looking information includes statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and the Company’s actual achievements or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking information due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors. The Company’s statements containing forward-looking information are based on the beliefs, expectations and opinions of Management on the date the statements are made, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or Management’s beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, other than as required by applicable law. For the reasons set forth above, one should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

Mike McAllister
V.P., Investor Relations
Sierra Metals Inc.
+1 (416) 366-7777
Email: info@sierrametals.com

Ed Guimaraes
CFO
Sierra Metals Inc.
+1(416) 366-7777

Luis Marchese
CEO
Sierra Metals Inc.
+1(416) 366-7777

Source: Sierra Metals Inc.