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Copper Quest Exploration Inc. — Management Reports 2023
Apr 21, 2023
47745_rns_2023-04-20_56f895b8-4585-4d04-a683-23be5cb67c6a.pdf
Management Reports
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INTERRA COPPER CORP.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis
For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
Dated: April 19, 2023
INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
The following management’s discussion and analysis ("MD&A") of the financial condition and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2022 should be read in conjunction with the accompanying audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 (the "financial statements") and the related notes thereto of Interra Copper Corp. (the "Company" or "Interra"). The financial statements have been prepared using accounting policies consistent with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and interpretations of the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee. The information provided in this document is not intended to be a comprehensive review of all matters and developments concerning the Company and, as such, is not a substitute for detailed investigation or analysis on any particular issue.
The first, second, third, and fourth quarters of the Company’s fiscal years are referred to as “Q1”, “Q2”, “Q3” and “Q4”, respectively. All amounts are presented in Canadian dollars, the Company’s and its subsidiaries’ functional and presentation currency, unless otherwise stated.
Additional information is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and at the Company’s website at www.interracoppercorp.com.
REPORT DATE
The effective date of this report is April 19, 2023 (the “Report Date”).
CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain statements in this report are forward-looking statements, which reflect our management’s expectations regarding our future growth, results of operations, performance and business prospects and opportunities including statements related to the development of existing and future property interests, availability of financing and projected costs and expenses. Forwardlooking statements consist of statements that are not purely historical, including any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations, or intentions of management regarding the future. Such statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results, performance, or developments to differ materially from those contained in the statements. No assurance can be given that any of the events anticipated by the forward- looking statements will occur, or, if they do occur, what benefits we will obtain from them. These forward-looking statements reflect management’s current views and are based on certain assumptions and speak only as of the date of this report. These assumptions, which include management’s current expectations, estimates and assumptions about current mineral property interests, the global economic environment, the market price and demand for commodities and our ability to manage our property interests and operating costs, may prove to be incorrect. A number of risks and uncertainties could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including: (1) a downturn in general economic conditions, (2) a decreased demand or price of precious and base metals, (3) delays in the start of projects with respect to our property interests, (4) inability to locate and acquire additional property interests, (5) the uncertainty of government regulation and politics regarding mining and mineral exploration, (6) potential negative financial impact from regulatory investigations, claims, lawsuits and other legal proceedings and challenges, and (7) other factors beyond our control.
There is a significant risk that such forward-looking statements will not prove to be accurate. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. No forward-looking statement is a guarantee of future results. We disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. Additional information about these and other assumptions, risks and uncertainties are set out in the below section entitled “Risk Factors and Uncertainties”.
MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSIBILITY
The accompanying financial statements of the Company and the MD&A have been prepared by and are the responsibility of management.
QUALIFIED PERSON
The scientific and technical information contained in this MD&A has been reviewed and approved by the Company’s Vice President of Exploration, Thomas Hawkins, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”).
2
INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
INTERNAL CONTROLS
Chief Executive Officers and Chief Financial Officers of Canadian public companies, excluding venture issuers, are required to certify on the design and the effectiveness of their company's disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting.
DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS
The Company was incorporated in the province of British Columbia on August 30, 2018, under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) with the name IMC International Mining Corp. for the purposes of a plan of arrangement with Chemesis International Inc., a publicly traded company. The Company subsequently changed its name on May 31, 2021, from IMC International Mining Corp. to Interra Copper Corp. The Company’s registered office is located at 1008 - 550 Burrard Street, Bentall 5, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6C 2B5.
On September 23, 2019, the common shares of the Company were listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange under the symbol “IMCX”. On March 3, 2020, the common shares of the Company were listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol “3MX”. On February 26, 2021, the common shares of the Company were listed on the OTCQB Marketplace under the symbol “IMIMF” in the United States.
On May 31, 2021, the Company changed its name to Interra Copper Corp. and announced a new marketing effort, including a new website, rebranding, and the planned development of an advanced online footprint. The Company’s trading symbols remained unchanged.
The Company is a junior mineral exploration company engaged in the acquisition, exploration, and evaluation of natural resource properties in British Columbia, Canada.
The Company currently has two mineral exploration properties, the Thane Property located in north-central British Columbia, and the Chuck Creek Property located in central British Columbia, the details of which are set out below. The Company’s principal objective is to explore and develop its properties and to identify other properties worthy of investment and exploration.
The Company has not yet determined whether its property interests contain reserves that are economically recoverable. The recoverability of amounts shown for resource properties and related deferred exploration expenditures are dependent upon the discovery of economically recoverable reserves, confirmation of the Company’s interest in the underlying mineral claims, the ability of the Company to obtain necessary financing to complete the development of the resource properties and upon future profitable production or proceeds from the disposition thereof.
The continuing operations of the Company are dependent upon its ability to develop a viable business and to attain profitable operations and generate funds therefrom. This indicates the existence of a material uncertainty that may cast significant doubt about the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. Management intends to finance operating costs by the issuance of common shares. If the Company is unable to continue as a going concern, the net realizable value of its assets may be materially less than the amounts on its statement of financial position.
On May 2, 2022, the Company consolidated its issued and outstanding common shares on the basis of one post-consolidation common share for every nine pre-consolidation common shares with no fractional shares issued (the “Share Consolidation”). Accordingly, the Company effected the Share Consolidation in the financial statements and this MD&A as if it had happened at the beginning of periods reported, and disclosed all share capital, warrant, and stock option information respectively on a postconsolidated basis.
HIGHLIGHTS
Highlight subsequent to December 31, 2022
- On March 10, 2023, the Company announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement dated March 8, 2023 to acquire Alto Verde Copper Inc. (“Alto Verde”) through a newly incorporated wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (1000465623 Ontario Inc.) (the “Transaction”). On March 31, 2023, the Transaction closed. Pursuant to the Transaction, the Company acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Alto Verde on a share exchange ratio of approximately 0.2512 of one (1) common share in the Company for one (1) common share of Alto Verde. All outstanding options and warrants to purchase Alto Verde common shares were exchanged on approximately a 0.2512 to one (1) basis, for warrants and options to purchase common shares of the Company.
3
INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
In relation to the Transaction, the Company issued 5,781,722 subscription receipts at a price of $0.50 per subscription receipt, for gross proceeds of $2,890,861. On March 31, 2023, the subscription receipts automatically converted into units of the Company. Each unit comprises of one common share and one-half share purchase warrant. Each full warrant is convertible into one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.75 for a period of thirty-six months following the closure of the Transaction. The warrants will be subject to an acceleration provision allowing the Company to accelerate the expiration date with a 30-day notice period to warrant-holders in the event the common shares trade on the CSE for 10 consecutive days at $1.25 or higher.
On completion of the Transaction, the Company paid finder’s fees of 478,691 common shares, $91,640 in cash and issued 240,800 finder’s warrants entitling the holder thereof to purchase one common share at an exercise price of $0.75 per share for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance.
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On March 10, 2023, the Company announced that it had entered into marketing and consulting contracts with various suppliers, with $786,000 and US$168,000 payable in cash and the issuance of 50,000 options. These contracts came into force upon the closing of the Transaction.
-
On March 31, 2023, the Company granted 465,000 stock options with an exercise price of $0.80 and expiration date of March 31, 2028 to certain directors, officers, and consultants of the Company. These stock options vest over a period of 18 months.
-
On March 31, 2023, on completion of the Transaction, Christopher Buncic was appointed President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of the Company. Jason Nickel moved from his previous role as Chief Executive Officer to Chief Operating Officer, Richard Gittleman was appointed as an Independent Director and Thomas Hawkins resigned as a Director but remains as VP Exploration.
-
On April 16, 2023, 813,541 warrants with an exercise price of $2.70 and 44,309 warrants with an exercise price of $1.80 expired unexercised.
Highlights during the year ended December 31, 2022
-
On October 13, 2022, Interra announced an exploration agreement with Tsay Keh Dene First Nation.
-
On July 28, 2022, the Company closed a non-brokered private placement financing comprising of an aggregate of 220,000 common shares for gross proceeds of $110,000.
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On June 30, 2022, pursuant to the Company’s annual general meeting, T. Greg Hawkins, Samir Patel, Gordon Neal, and Chris Naas resigned as Directors of the Company (noting Mr. Hawkins also resigned as Chairman of the Board, and Mr. Naas also resigned as Chief Operating Officer of the Company) while Thomas Hawkins and Scott Young were appointed Directors of the Company.
-
On June 6, 2022 (the “Effective Date”), the Company entered into an option agreement to purchase all rights, title, and interest in the Chuck Creek Property from two former directors of the Company (the “Optionors”). Pursuant to the option agreement, the Company shall issue to the Optionors an aggregate of 35,000 common shares and make cash payments to the Optionors in the amount of $30,000 as follows with 50% as to each Optionor:
| Date | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Within 5 days of the Effective Date | •$10,000 cash (paid on June 15, 2022) |
| •35,000 common shares (issued on June 29, 2022). | |
| The sooner of: | |
| (i) the Company’s next equity financing, or | |
| (ii)12 months from the Effective Date | • $20,000 cash |
Upon exercise of the option agreement, the Company shall grant a 1% net smelter royalty to the Optionors, of which 0.5% may be repurchased by the Company for $500,000.
- On May 2, 2022, the Company effected a consolidation of one (1) post-consolidation common share for every nine (9) preconsolidation common shares with no fractional shares issued, resulting in 8,388,424 common shares issued and outstanding post-consolidation. In May 2022, 597,222 options were forfeited and 342,500 options were cancelled. As a result, the Company reversed $299,231 in share-based payments related to the unvested options.
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
-
On February 11, 2022, the Company announced the results from the final two holes drilled at the Pinnacle Zone after its 2021 summer drill program that totaled 2,774 meters in 12 holes, at its Thane Property, located on traditional territory of the Takla and Tsay Keh Dene First Nations in North Central B.C.
-
On January 24, 2022, the Company announced further 2021 summer drilling results from the Cathedral Area at its Thane Property, located on traditional territory of the Takla and Tsay Keh Dene First Nations in North-Central B.C. Results are from drill holes TH21-3, TH21-4, TH21-6, and TH21-12. TH21-3 and TH21-12 were designed to test the southern extent of a 600 square meter IP chargeability anomaly along line 5300N within the Cathedral Main zone. TH21-4 was drilled within the Cathedral South zone on the western extent of IP line 5200. TH21-6 was designed to test a broad, hidden, near surface 200 square meter IP chargeability anomaly approximately 350 meters to the east also on line 5300N. Drill holes intersected indicator low grade copper-gold mineralization.
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On January 14, 2022, the Company announced further 2021 summer drilling results from the Gully Area at its Thane Property, located on traditional territory of the Takla and Tsay Keh Dene First Nations in North-Central B.C. Results are from drill holes TH21-7, TH21-8 and TH21-11 which tested the eastern portion of the Gully Zone’s IP chargeability anomaly along lines 4700N and 4600N respectively as well as the southern end of line 6350E. All three holes intersected indicator low grade copper-gold mineralization. Mineralization styles intersected within the drill holes consists of localized, structurally controlled, quartz-pyrite-chalcopyrite ± arsenopyrite fractures, veins, and rare semi-massive mineralization at shallow to moderate depths proximal to diorite-(quartz) monzonite and latite porphyry contacts and south-southwest to south-southeast trending moderate to steeply (40-80°) westerly dipping chlorotic shears and dilutional breccias.
Highlights during the year ended December 31, 2021
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On October 29, 2021, the Company closed a non-brokered private placement issuing an aggregate of 102,778 flow-through units (“FT Unit”) at a price of $1.80 per FT Unit and 12,222 non-flow-through units (“Units”) at a price of $1.35 per Unit for gross proceeds of $201,500. Each FT Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company that qualifies as a “flow-through share” for the purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $2.70 for 24 months from the date of issuance into one common share. Each Unit consists of one common share and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $2.70 for 24 months from the date of issuance into a common share.
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On September 15, 2021, the Company completed and filed a NI 43-101 compliant technical report on its primary asset, the Thane Property in north-central British Columbia.
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Effective September 1, 2021, the Company decided not to pursue further work on the Bullard Pass project in Arizona, in order to focus 100% efforts and resources on the Thane Project. As a result, the Company expensed all costs incurred on the property as an impairment of exploration and evaluation assets of $317,596.
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On August 31, 2021, the Company completed its maiden diamond drilling program on the Thane Property. The program comprised a total of 2,774 meters in 12 holes.
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On August 11, 2021, Dave McMillan resigned as Interim Chief Executive Officer and Interim President of the Company and Jason Nickel, P. Eng., was appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Company. Mr. Nickel holds a degree in Applied Science in Mine Engineering from the University of British Columbia and a post graduate diploma in Business Administration from Simon Fraser University. Mr. Nickel brings 25 years of experience in Mine Operations, Engineering, Project Development, and resource company management to the Company along with a decade of corporate and junior resource markets focus.
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On July 28, 2021, Gordon Neal was appointed director of the Company. Mr. Neal is President of Neal & Company Consultants and has provided more than 30 years of capital markets and corporate governance advisory services to public and private companies.
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On July 6, 2021, and July 28, 2021, an aggregate of 266,667 stock options were granted to directors and officers of the Company. These stock options have an exercise price of $1.98, a five-year life, and vest over a period of 18 months with 25% vested upon the date of grant and 25% vest every six months thereafter until fully vested.
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On July 6, 2021, Oliver Foeste was appointed Chief Financial Officer of the Company, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of Jamie Lewin as Chief Financial Officer.
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On May 31, 2021, the Company changed its name to Interra Copper Corp. and announced a new marketing effort, including a new website, rebranding, and the planned development of an advanced online footprint. The Company’s trading symbols remained unchanged.
5
INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
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On May 28, 2021, the Company closed the third and final tranche of a non-brokered private placement financing comprising 18,518 Units at $1.35 per Unit for gross proceeds of $25,000. Each Unit consists of one common share and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $2.70 for 24 months from the date of issuance into a common share.
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On May 25, 2021, the Company engaged CME Consultants Inc. (“CME”) to manage and supervise the 2021 exploration program for the Thane property with projected costs of $2,400,000, as agreed to the 2021 budget.
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On May 19, 2021, the Company closed the second tranche of the non-brokered private placement financing comprising 265,208 FT Units at a price of $1.80 per FT Unit and 575,512 Units at $1.35 per Unit for total gross proceeds of $1,253,829. Each FT Unit consists of one common share that qualifies as a ‘flow-through share’ for the purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $2.70 for 24 months from the date of issuance into a common share. Each Unit consists of one common share and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $2.70 for 24 months from the date of issuance into a common share.
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On May 19, 2021, the Company contracted Investing News Network, Stockhouse Publishing Ltd., and Cana Com Group to assist with its marketing program.
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On May 10, 2021, Faizaan Lalani resigned as a director of the Company and David McAdam and Jason Nickel were appointed directors of the Company.
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On April 16, 2021, the Company closed the first tranche of a non-brokered private placement financing comprising 720,764 FT Unit at a price of $1.80 per FT Unit, and 92,778 Units at $1.35 per Unit for total gross proceeds of $1,422,624. Each FT Unit consists of one common share that qualifies as a ‘flow-through share’ for the purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada) and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $2.70 for 24 months from the date of issuance into a common share. Each Unit consists of one common share and one common share purchase warrant exercisable at $2.70 for 24 months from the date of issuance into a common share.
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On March 1, 2021, an aggregate of 44,444 stock options were granted to a consultant at an exercise price of $2.25. These stock options bear a three-year term and vest over a period of 18 months with 25% vested upon the date of grant and 25% every six months thereafter until fully vested.
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On March 1, 2021, the Company announced that its common shares were upgraded to the OTCQB Marketplace in the United States, where the common shares are quoted under the symbol “IMIMF”.
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On February 23, 2021, the Company announced it has commenced start up procedures for its upcoming 2021 work program at its Thane Property. See “Exploration Activity - Thane Property - North-Central British Columbia.”.
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On February 1, 2021, the Company entered into a non-binding letter of intent to acquire a 100% interest in the Chuck Creek Property held by two directors of the Company. It is contemplated the Company acquire the Chuck Creek Property for a purchase price of $50,000 and a 1% net smelter return royalty. The proposed acquisition is subject to due diligence, negotiation of a definitive agreement and satisfaction or waiver of other conditions.
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On January 19, 2021, and January 27, 2021, the Company reported initial and additional results, respectively, from its 2020 exploration program undertaken at its Thane Property. See “Exploration Activity - Thane Property - North-Central British Columbia.”
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On January 13, 2021, the Company announced it had engaged Freeform Communications Inc. to provide investor relations and on-line marketing services. In connection with the engagement, Freeform Communications Inc. was granted an aggregate of 27,778 stock options at an exercise price of $2.25. These stock options bear a two-year term (expiring January 13, 2023) and vest over a period of 18 months with 25% vested upon the date of grant and 25% every six months thereafter until fully vested.
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On January 5, 2021, an aggregate of 233,333 stock options were granted. 66,667 went to Christopher Naas, former COO and Director and the balance, 166,666 went to consultants at an exercise price of $2.25. These stock options bear a fiveyear term (expiring January 5, 2026) and vest over a period of 18 months with 25% vested upon the date of grant and 25% every six months thereafter until fully vested.
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
EXPLORATION ACTIVITY
a) Bullard Pass Property - Arizona, United States
On September 1, 2021, Interra made the decision not to renew claims and submit annual fees to maintain the claims, so the project was discontinued, and the Company no longer has ownership of the claims. There were no assets or equipment, nor liabilities associated with the project. As a result, the Company expensed all costs incurred on the property as an impairment of exploration and evaluation assets of $317,596. The Company discontinued reporting on this project as of Q2 2022. In conjunction with the discontinuation of the Bullard Pass Property, Canadian Mining of Arizona Inc, a subsidiary of the Company was dissolved.
b) Chuck Creek Property - Central British Columbia
The Chuck Creek Property covers 8,293 acres (33.57 sq. kilometers) and is situated in central British Columbia. The Property is located within the Eagle Bay Assemblage of rocks and is surrounded on all sides by Taseko Mines’ Yellowhead property, which hosts a copper-gold volcanogenic-sulphide deposit.
2022 Exploration program
In August 2022, Interra commenced a geology program at Chuck Creek, collecting a series of 10 kg stream sediment samples from the Chuck Creek Property for analysis of general chemical composition, analysis of bulk leach extractable gold (BLEG) , and assessment by optical microscopy. The Company also retained noted glaciologist Dr. Derek Turner to complete a surficial geological map of the property. The aim of this initial program at Chuck Creek was to replicate certain historical gold assay results, to help determine the source of the significant historical gold assays, which have been historically reported at Chuck Creek. Analysis of the results is pending, and the Company will assess the future development of Chuck Creek following the outcome of these results.
c) Thane Property - North-Central British Columbia
The Thane Property comprises 50,904 acres (206 sq. kilometers) of contiguous claims located in the Quesnel Terrane of northcentral British Columbia. The northern part of the Quesnel Terrane extends from south of the Mt. Milligan Mine northward to the Kemess Mine, with the Thane Property located midway between these two copper-gold porphyry deposits. This property includes several highly prospective mineralized areas identified to date, including the “Cathedral Area” and “Gail Area” on which the Company’s exploration is currently focused.
2021 Exploration program
At the Thane Property, a 22-person exploration camp was setup in late June 2021 to facilitate the summer helicopter-supported exploration program. On July 5, 2021, the Company mobilized crews to the Thane Property to commence drill pad construction in preparation for a helicopter-supported diamond drill program. On July 19, 2021, Atlas Drilling Ltd. of Kamloops, BC, mobilized to the Thane Property and commenced drilling on July 20, 2021. A total of 2,783.24 meters of NQ core was drilled in twelve holes from nine drill pads with the last hole completed on August 21, 2021.
Geological and soil sampling crews mobilized to the Thane Property on July 5, 2021. Geological mapping and rock sampling was undertaken at the Pinnacle and Gail areas. Soil sampling was undertaken in preparation of induced polarization (IP) surveys at both Pinnacle and Gail, while soil sampling only was undertaken at the Mat showing.
On September 3, 2021, Peter E. Walcott & Associates Ltd. (“Walcott”) mobilized to the Thane Property for seven days of IP pole-dipole surveying at the Pinnacle and Gail showings. Approximately 5 line-km’s of grid was surveyed using an a-spacing of 25 meters. Earlier in the summer, Walcott completed an 8.3 km[2] helicopter airborne magnetic survey at the Cathedral Area with a line-spacing of 100 meters. The survey covered all primary showings of the area.
All core, rock and soil samples were submitted to ALS Canada Ltd. for sample preparation and analysis. A total of 2,398 core samples were analyzed for multi-element ICP by a four-acid digestion with a MS finish, while multi-element ICP by aqua regia digestion with a MS finish was undertaken on the 182 soil samples and 73 rock samples. All samples were analyzed for gold by geochemistry methods and all over-limits were assayed. Sample preparation was undertaken at ALS’s preparation facility in Kamloops, BC with analytical work undertaken at ALS’ North Vancouver office.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company was pleased to have negotiated the First Nation Agreement with Tsay Keh Dene First Nation that supports further exploration, site activities and cooperation at Thane. Plans for 2023 at Thane include continued analysis of the extensive data set, geophysics work, and sampling completed to refine the next phase of work at the Thane project. Market conditions and capital funding success will determine the level or work at Thane; with the proposed merger transaction - desktop work is a likelihood in the budget, but further capital will be required to activate new site-based exploration work.
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Selected Annual Financial Information
The following selected financial information is derived from the Company’s financial statements:
| For the years ended | For the years ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| December 31, | |||
| 2022 | 2021 | 2020 |
|
| $ | $ | $ |
|
| Net loss and comprehensive loss | (360,975) | (1,654,012) | (3,112,943) |
| Basic and diluted loss per common share | (0.04) | (0.21) | (0.62) |
| December 31, | |||
| 2022 | 2021 | 2020 |
|
| Total assets | 6,082,805 | 6,524,768 | 4,977,342 |
| Current liabilities | 41,066 | 100,810 | 13,914 |
For the year ended December 31, 2022, net loss and comprehensive loss decreased by $1,293,037 primarily as a result of reversal of share-based payments and lower advertising and marketing expenses. The change in total assets is primarily from the expenditure on exploration and evaluation assets using funds raised from private placements. As an exploration business, the Company has not realized any revenues to date.
Selected Quarterly Financial Information
The following is a summary of the Company’s financial results for the eight most recently completed quarters:
| Three months ended | Net | To-date capitalized exploration expenditures |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| loss (income) and Weighted average |
Basic and diluted |
||
| comprehensive number of common |
loss (income) |
||
| loss (income) shares outstanding (1) |
per share |
||
| December 31, 2022 September 30, 2022 June 30, 2022 March 31, 2022 December 31, 2021 September 30, 2021 June 30, 2021 March 31, 2021 |
$ # 74,136 8,643,424 68,786 8,576,467 37,848 8,389,193 180,205 8,388,424 (93,476) 8,353,424 809,229 8,273,423 252,289 7,684,457 685,970 6,499,276 |
$ 0.01 0.01 0.00 0.02 (0.01) 0.10 0.03 0.11 |
$ 5,966,547 5,934,539 5,924,605 5,876,405 5,817,265 5,559,918 4,009,338 3,811,640 |
(1) The weighted average number of common shares outstanding was adjusted for the Share Consolidation.
During the quarter ended December 31, 2022, the Company continued its focus on its search for potential new properties to explore, its current exploration programs at the Thane and Chuck Creek properties and minimizing corporate overhead costs. As a result, the Company had a quarterly net loss of $74,136.
The loss for the quarter ended September 30, 2022 was lower at $68,786 due primarily to $35,143 share-based recovery as a result of the cancellation of a number of stock options prior to vesting.
During the quarter ended December 31, 2021, the Company renounced $1,959,748 eligible exploration expenditures to investors, which led to the amortization of the flow-through premium liability of $489,937. This, along with the Company’s continued focus on reducing costs in areas such as advertising and marketing, consulting, and non-cash share-based compensation expenses resulted in the Company having a quarterly net income of $93,476.
Over the last eight quarters, private placements, warrant and option exercises resulted in 2,175,753 shares being issued. The Company continued to focus on its exploration activities with a total of $5,966,547 spent on exploration activities as at the Report Date.
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
For the three months ended December 31, 2022 compared with the three months ended December 31, 2021
The Company’s net loss and comprehensive loss for the three months ended December 31, 2022 was $74,136 compared to net income of $93,476 in the same period in 2021. The loss per share for the three months ended December 31, 2022 was ($0.01) and the income per share for the three months ended December 31, 2021 was $0.01.
The primary reasons for the $167,612 increase in net loss was the other income of $nil in Q4 2022 compared to $489,937 in Q4 2021 from the amortization of the flow-through premium liability. This other income was offset by a $117,296 reduction in advertising and marketing expenses as the Company conserved funds for the 2023 exploration programs following the Transaction and a $140,973 decrease in non-cash share-based payments as all outstanding options had vested prior to Q4 2022.
For the year ended December 31, 2022 compared with the year ended December 31, 2021
The Company’s net loss and comprehensive loss for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $360,975 compared to a loss of $1,654,012 in the same period in 2021. The loss per share for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $0.04 and the loss per share for the year ended December 31, 2021 was $0.21.
The primary reasons for the $1,293,037 decrease in net loss include a $900,437 decrease in non-cash share-based payments due to options cancelled prior to vesting, a $403,210 decrease in advertising and marketing expenses, impairment of exploration and evaluation assets of $317,596 in 2021 compared to $nil in 2022, a $76,918 decrease in management fees, a $48,376 decrease in general and administrative expenses, and a $37,750 decrease in investor relations expenses, offset by an increase of $24,356 in professional fees and the $489,937 amortization of flow-through premium liability in 2021. These expenses fell across all operating expense categories as the Company managed its cashflow carefully whilst it actively searches for new exploration projects.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company invested in a marketing campaign strategy to increase market awareness of the business and attract potential investors. These costs were reduced in 2022.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Working capital and cashflow
As at December 31, 2022, the Company had a working capital of $50,192 (December 31, 2021 - $581,693), which included cash of $58,252 (December 31, 2021 - $490,825).
The Company’s financial condition is contingent upon its ability to obtain necessary financing to explore suitable properties.
Although the Company has been successful in the past in financing its activities through the sale of equity securities there can be no assurance that it will be able to obtain sufficient financing, beyond that outlined in the “Highlights subsequent to December 31, 2022” section, in the future to carry out exploration and development work on any acquired properties. The ability of the Company to arrange additional financing in the future will depend, in part, on the prevailing capital market conditions and exploration success.
Operating activities
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company used $411,491 of cash in operating activities primarily relating to the net loss and comprehensive loss of $360,975, a reversal of non-cash share-based payments of $149,444, and other working capital movements. This operating loss was primarily driven by management fees of $168,694 and professional fees of $89,750.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company used $924,653 of cash in operating activities primarily relating to the net loss and comprehensive loss of $1,654,012 offset by $750,993 of non-cash share-based payments, a $317,596 of non-cash impairment of exploration and evaluation assets, and other working capital adjustments.
Investing activities
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company used $131,082 of cash relating to capitalized exploration and evaluation expenditures on Thane Property and the acquisition costs of the Chuck Creek Property.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company used $2,345,666 of cash relating to capitalized exploration and evaluation expenditures on Thane Property.
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
Financing activities
During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company received $110,000 relating to proceeds from private placements.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company received $2,853,486 relating to $2,902,953 of proceeds from private placements, and $60,000 of proceeds from the exercise of warrants, offset by $109,467 share issuance costs.
Share capital
On May 2, 2022, the Company consolidated its issued and outstanding common shares on the basis of one (1) postconsolidation common share for every nine (9) pre-consolidation common shares with no fractional shares issued. Accordingly, the Company has restated comparative information retrospectively in the period reported for the Share Consolidation, and disclosed all share capital, warrant, and stock option information respectively on a post consolidated basis.
The Company’s authorized share capital consists of an unlimited number of common shares without par value. As at December 31, 2022, the Company had 8,643,424 (December 31, 2021 - 8,388,424) common shares issued and outstanding.
The table below summarizes the numbers of outstanding equity instruments as at the Report Date:
| Report Date | |
|---|---|
| (Effected for Share | |
| Consolidation) | |
| # | |
| Common shares | 22,345,600 |
| Common share purchase warrants | 4,125,818 |
| Options | 603,889 |
Capital commitments
The Company holds a 100% interest in the Thane Property through its wholly owned subsidiary and has no ongoing capital commitments related to the property.
The Company will acquire a 100% interest in the Chuck Creek Property upon completion of a $20,000 cash option payment, due at the earlier of (i) the Company’s next equity financing, or (ii) 12 months from the Effective Date. The Company does not have expenditure commitments or other contractual obligations with respect to the property.
The Company will add or discontinue claims based on geological merit and as financial resources allow. If additional funds are required, the Company plans to raise additional capital primarily through the private placements of its equity securities. Under such circumstances, there is no assurance that the Company will be able to obtain the further funds required for the Company’s continued working capital requirements.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
The Company has not entered into any off-balance sheet arrangements.
TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES
Key management personnel are the directors and officers of the Company. Transactions with key management personnel for the years ended December 31, 2022, and 2021 are summarized as follows:
| 2022 | 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| $ | $ | |
| Director fees | 34,951 | 43,175 |
| General and administrative | 1,122 | 17,150 |
| Management fees | 168,694 | 245,612 |
| Share-based payments (recovery) | (107,866) | 394,441 |
| 96,901 | 700,378 |
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
During the year ended December 31, 2022, $65,530 (2021 - $113,806) was paid as management fees to a company controlled by an officer of the Company for CEO-related services.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, $2,000 (2021 - $25,050) was paid as management fees to a company controlled by a former officer of the Company for COO-related services.
During year ended December 31, 2022, $58,027 (2021 - $2,328,530) was paid for capitalized exploration expenditures and $1,122 (2021 - $17,150) was paid for general and administrative expenses to a company controlled by the COO of the Company.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, $65,164 (2021 - $60,208) was paid as management fees to a company controlled by an officer of the Company for CFO-related services provided.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, $36,000 (2021 - $47,048) was paid as management fees to a company controlled by an officer of the Company for corporate secretarial-related services provided.
During the year ended December 31, 2022, $34,951 (2021 - $43,175) was paid to non-executive directors of the Company for director fees.
During year ended December 31, 2022, $10,000 (2021 - $nil) was paid and 35,000 common shares at a fair value of $0.52 per share were issued to two former directors of the Company as part of the acquisition consideration of the Chuck Creek Property.
As at December 31, 2022, $nil (December 31, 2021 - $83,270) was included in accounts payable and accrued liabilities for amounts due to related parties.
RISK FACTORS AND UNCERTAINTIES
The principal business of the Company is the acquisition and exploration of mineral properties. Given the inherent risky nature of the exploration and mining business, the limited extent of the Company's assets and the present stage of development, investors should consider the following risk factors, among others:
a) Exploration stage company
The Company does not hold any known mineral reserves of any kind and does not generate any revenues from production. The Company’s success will depend largely upon its ability to locate commercially viable mineral reserves. Mineral exploration is highly speculative in nature, involves many risks and frequently is non-economically viable. There is no assurance that exploration efforts will be successful. Success in establishing reserves is a result of a number of factors, including the quality and experience of management, the level of geological and technical expertise, and the quality of property available for exploration.
Once mineralization is discovered, it may take several years in the initial phases of drilling until production is possible, during which time the economic feasibility of production may change. Significant financial investment is required to establish proven and probable reserves through drilling and bulk sampling, to determine the optimal metallurgical process to extract the metals from the ore and, in the case of new properties, to construct mining and processing facilities. Because of these uncertainties, no assurance can be given that exploration programs will result in the establishment or expansion of resources or reserves.
b) Operating history and availability of financial resources
The Company does not have any history of generating operating revenue and is unlikely to generate any significant amount in the foreseeable future. Hence, it may not have sufficient financial resources to undertake by itself all of its planned mineral property acquisition and exploration activities. Operations will continue to be financed primarily through the issuance of securities. The Company will need to continue its dependence on the issuance of such securities for future financing, which may result in dilution to existing shareholders. Furthermore, the amount of additional funds required may not be available under favorable terms, if at all. Failure to obtain additional funding on a timely basis could result in delay or indefinite postponement of further exploration and development and could cause the Company to forfeit its interests in some or all of its properties or to reduce or discontinue its operations.
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
c) Inflation and metal price risk
The ability of the Company to raise interim financing will be significantly affected by changes in the market price of the metals for which it explores. The mineral prices are volatile and are affected by numerous factors beyond the control of the Company. The level of interest rates, the rate of inflation, the world supplies of and demands for minerals and metals and the stability of exchange rates can all cause fluctuations in these prices. Such external economic factors are influenced by changes in international investment patterns and monetary systems and political developments. The prices have fluctuated significantly in recent years. Future significant price declines could cause investors to be unprepared to finance exploration and development.
d) Share price volatility and lack of active market
Worldwide securities markets continue to experience a high level of price and volume volatility, and the market prices of securities of many public companies have experienced significant fluctuations in price which have not necessarily been related to the operating performance, underlying asset values or prospects of such companies.
It may be anticipated that any quoted market for the Company’s securities will be subject to such market trends and that the value of such securities may be affected accordingly. If an active market does not develop, the liquidity of the investment may be limited and the market price of such securities may decline below the subscription price.
e) Competition
The mineral resource industry is intensively competitive in all of its phases, and the Company competes with many other companies possessing much greater financial and technical resources. Competition is particularly intense with respect to the acquisition of desirable undeveloped properties. The principal competitive factors in the acquisition of prospective properties include the staff and data necessary to identify and investigate such properties, and the financial resources necessary to acquire and develop the projects. Competition could adversely affect the Company’s ability to acquire suitable prospects for exploration.
f) Government regulations and environmental risks and hazards
The Company’s conduct is subject to various federal, provincial, and state laws, and rules and regulations including environmental legislation in the countries where exploration takes place. The Company has adopted environmental practices designed to ensure that it continues to comply with environmental regulations currently applicable to it. All of the Company’s activities are in compliance in all material respects with applicable environmental legislation. Environmental hazards may exist on the Company’s properties, which may have been caused by previous or existing owners or operators of the properties. The Company is not aware of any existing environmental hazards related to any of its current property interests that may result in material liabilities to the Company. Environmental legislation is becoming increasingly stringent and costs and expenses of regulatory compliance are increasing. The impact of new and future environmental legislation on the Company’s operations may cause additional expenses and restrictions. If the restrictions adversely affect the scope of exploration and development on the resource property interests, the potential for production on the property may be diminished or negated.
g) Reliance on key personnel
The Company relies on a relatively small number of key directors, officers and senior personnel. Loss of any one of those persons could have an adverse effect on the Company. The Company does not currently maintain “key employee” insurance in respect of any of its senior management.
h) Licenses and permits
The operations of the Company require licenses and permits from various government authorities. The Company believes that it holds all necessary licenses and permits under applicable laws and regulations for work in progress and believes it is presently complying in all material respects with the terms of such licenses and permits. However, such licenses and permits are subject to change under various circumstances.
There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to obtain or maintain all necessary licenses and permits that may be required to explore and develop its properties, commence construction or operation of mining facilities or to maintain continued operations that economically justify the cost.
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
i) Title to property
Although the Company will exercise the usual due diligence with respect to title to any properties in which it will take an interest, there is no guarantee that title to the properties will not be challenged or impugned. The Company’s mineral property interests may be subject to prior unregistered agreements or transfers, aboriginal land claims, government expropriation and title may be affected by undetected defects. In addition, certain mining claims in which the Company has an interest are not recorded in the name of the Company and cannot be recorded until certain steps are taken by other parties.
j) Risk of legal claims
The Company may become involved in disputes with third parties or government authorities in the future that may result in litigation. The results of these legal claims cannot be predicted with certainty and defense and settlement costs of legal claims can be substantial, even with respect to claims that have no merit. If the Company is unable to resolve these disputes in the Company’s favor or if the cost of the resolution is substantial, such events may have a material adverse impact on the ability of the Company to carry out its business plan.
PROPOSED TRANSACTIONS
On March 10, 2023, the Company announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement dated March 8, 2023 to acquire Alto Verde Copper Inc. (“Alto Verde”) through a newly incorporated wholly owned subsidiary of the Company (1000465623 Ontario Inc.) (the “Transaction”). On March 31, 2023, the Transaction closed. Pursuant to the Transaction, the Company acquired 100% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Alto Verde on a share exchange ratio of approximately 0.2512 of one (1) common share in the Company for one (1) common share of Alto Verde. All outstanding options and warrants to purchase Alto Verde common shares were exchanged on approximately a 0.2512 to one (1) basis, for warrants and options to purchase common shares of the Company.
In relation to the Transaction, the Company issued 5,781,722 subscription receipts at a price of $0.50 per subscription receipt, for gross proceeds of $2,890,861. On March 31, 2023, the subscription receipts automatically converted into units of the Company. Each unit comprises of one common share and one-half share purchase warrant. Each full warrant is convertible into one common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.75 for a period of thirty-six months following the closure of the Transaction. The warrants will be subject to an acceleration provision allowing the Company to accelerate the expiration date with a 30-day notice period to warrant-holders in the event the common shares trade on the CSE for 10 consecutive days at $1.25 or higher.
On completion of the Transaction, the Company paid finder’s fees of 478,691 common shares, $91,640 in cash and issued 240,800 finder’s warrants entitling the holder thereof to purchase one common share at an exercise price of $0.75 per share for a period of 36 months from the date of issuance.
ACCOUNTING STANDARDS ISSUED BUT NOT YET EFFECTIVE
The Company has reviewed new and revised accounting pronouncements that have been issued but are not yet effective. The Company has not early adopted any of these standards as they are not applicable to the financial statements of the Company.
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS
The Company’s financial instruments are exposed to certain financial risks which are discussed in detail in Notes 10 and 11 of the Company’s financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The preparation of the Company’s financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of expenses during the reporting period. Estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on management’s experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
Critical accounting judgments
Information about critical judgments in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the financial statements include, but are not limited to, the following:
Going concern
The assessment of the Company’s ongoing viability as an operating entity and determination of the related disclosures requires significant judgment. The assumption that the Company will be able to continue as a going concern is subject to critical judgments by management with respect to assumptions surrounding the short and long-term operating budget, expected profitability, investing and financing activities and management’s strategic planning. Should those judgments prove to be inaccurate, management’s continued use of the going concern assumption could be inappropriate.
Determination of functional currency
The functional currency for each of the Company’s subsidiaries is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates. Determination of functional currency involves certain judgements to determine the primary economic environment of an entity. The Company re-evaluates the functional currency of its entities when there is a change in events and conditions which previously determined the primary economic environment of an entity.
Impairment of exploration and evaluation assets
The Company is required to make significant judgments regarding the capitalization of the costs incurred in respect to its exploration and evaluation assets. In addition, the Company is required to make significant judgments on the ongoing feasibility of mineral exploration, and whether there are indicators that the development of a specific area is unlikely, and exploration and evaluation assets should be impaired.
Critical accounting estimates
Critical accounting estimates are estimates and assumptions made by management that may result in a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities within the next financial year and include, but are not limited to, the following:
Share-based payments
The Company determines the fair value of stock options granted using the Black Scholes option pricing model. This model requires the input of highly subjective assumptions, including share price volatility, which can materially affect the fair value estimate of stock options.
Completeness of reclamation liabilities
Management determines the future costs the Company will incur to complete the rehabilitation work that is required to comply with existing laws, regulations, and agreements in place at each exploration site. Actual costs incurred may differ from those amounts estimated. Future changes to environmental laws and regulations could increase the extent of rehabilitation work required by the Company. Management determined at the date of the Statement of Financial Position that no material rehabilitation provisions were required under IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities, and Contingent Assets .
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INTERRA COPPER CORP. Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021
ADDITIONAL DISCLOSURE FOR VENTURE ISSUERS WITHOUT SIGNIFICANT REVENUE
During the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, the Company incurred the following operating expenses:
| 2022 | 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| $ | $ | |
| Advertising and marketing | 68,916 | 472,126 |
| Consulting fees | 21,700 | 25,000 |
| Director fees | 34,951 | 43,175 |
| Filing fees | 47,675 | 56,524 |
| General and administrative | 16,462 | 64,838 |
| Investor relations | 62,271 | 100,021 |
| Management fees | 168,694 | 245,612 |
| Professional fees | 89,750 | 65,394 |
| Share-based payments (recovery) | (149,444) | 750,993 |
| Total operating expenses | 360,975 | 1,823,683 |
An analysis of material components of the Company’s operating expenses is disclosed above in the “Results of operations” section of this MD&A. An analysis of the material components of the mineral property acquisition costs and mineral exploration costs are disclosed in the notes to the financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Christopher Buncic, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director David McAdam, Independent Director Jason Nickel, Chief Operating Officer and Director Richard Gittleman, Independent Director Scott Young, Independent Director Thomas Hawkins, Vice President of Exploration, Qualified Person Oliver Foeste, Chief Financial Officer Janet Francis, Corporate Secretary
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Additional information about the Company is available under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at http://www.sedar.com.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS APPROVAL
The Company's Board of Directors approved this MD&A.
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