Skip to main content

AI assistant

Sign in to chat with this filing

The assistant answers questions, extracts KPIs, and summarises risk factors directly from the filing text.

MACARTHUR MINERALS LIMITED Management Reports 2021

Aug 30, 2021

65338_rns_2021-08-30_d7d22f9b-11b3-4c8b-8ae0-184b1d3ca14e.pdf

Management Reports

Open in viewer

Opens in your device viewer

ACN 103 011 436

==> picture [223 x 45] intentionally omitted <==

Management’s Discussion and Analysis

(Form 51-102F1)

For the Quarter ended June 30, 2021

Information as of August 31, 2021 unless otherwise stated

Note to Reader

The following management’s discussion and analysis (“MD&A”) of the financial condition and results of operations of Macarthur Minerals Limited (“Macarthur” or the “Company”) for the three-month period ended June 30, 2021 has been prepared by management, in accordance with the requirements of National Instrument 51-102, as of August 31, 2021 (unless otherwise stated).

This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Audited Financial Statements and MD&A for the period ended March 31, 2021, together with the notes thereto, as well as the Company’s previous quarterly and half yearly financial and MD&A reports. The Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the three-month period ended June 30, 2021 are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”).

Forward-Looking Information

This MD&A includes certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable Canadian and Australian securities legislation. All statements in this MD&A, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as: believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate, plans and similar expressions, or which by their nature refer to future events. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future. Although the Company believes that expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. The material factors or assumptions used to develop forward-looking information include prevailing and projected market prices, exploitation and exploration estimates and results, continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include, without limitation: fluctuations in exchange rates and certain commodity prices, uncertainties related to mineral title in the projects, unforeseen technology changes that results in a reduction in minerals demand or substitution by other minerals or materials, the discovery of new large low-cost deposits of minerals and the general level of global economic activity. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements due to the inherent uncertainty thereof. Such statements relate to future events and expectations and, as such, involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. The forward-looking statements contained in this MD&A and are made as of the date of this MD&A or as of the date or dates specified in such statements and except as may otherwise be required pursuant to applicable laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Inherent in forward-looking statements are risks and uncertainties beyond the Company’s ability to predict or control, including, but not limited to, risks related to the Company’s inability to identify one or more economic deposits on its properties, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, variations in the market price of any mineral products the Company may produce or plan to produce, the Company’s inability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its activities, to produce minerals from its properties successfully or profitably, to continue its projected growth, to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies, and other risks identified herein under “Risk and Uncertainties”.

These forward-looking statements are made as at the date hereof or as of the date or dates specified in such statements and the Company does not intend and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable law. If the Company does update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that it will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and investors should not attribute undue certainty to or place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Discussion on Operations

BACKGROUND

Macarthur Minerals Limited is an Australian public company listed in Canada on the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSX-V”) (symbol: MMS), Australian Securities Exchange (“ASX”) (symbol: MIO) and OTCQB Venture Market (“OTCQB”) (symbol: MMSDF). Macarthur Minerals has three iron ore projects in the Yilgarn region of Western Australia. The Company has also established multiple project areas in the Pilbara, Western Australia for conglomerate gold, hard rock greenstone gold and hard rock lithium. In addition, Macarthur Minerals has lithium brine interests in the Railroad Valley, Nevada, USA.

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN IRON ORE PROJECTS

Lake Giles Projects

Macarthur Minerals’ Lake Giles Iron Ore Projects (“Lake Giles Projects”) are located on mining tenements covering approximately 62 km[2] , 175 kilometres (“km”) northwest of Kalgoorlie in Western Australia. Within the tenements, at least 33 km strike extent of outcropping banded iron formation (“BIF”) occurs as low ridges, surrounded by intensely weathered and mostly unexposed granites, basalts and ultramafic rocks.

The Lake Giles Projects are situated in the Yilgarn Region of Western Australia. The Yilgarn Region is host to many significant mineral deposits that have been, or are being, mined for iron ore. The tenements cover the Yerilgee greenstone belt which is some 80 km in length and lies within the Southern Cross Province of the Yilgarn. The Lake Giles Projects are approximately 90 km from the existing Perth Kalgoorlie Railway that has a direct connection to the Port of Esperance in Western Australia, where it is intended that ore from the Projects will be shipped. Export is subject to available capacity, which is not certain. The Lake Giles Iron Project (comprising the Moonshine Magnetite Project and the Ularring Hematite Project) is located approximately 450 kilometres East North- East of the coastal city of Perth, Western Australia, and approximately 115 kilometres West of the town of Menzies. Exploration for the Ularring Hematite and Moonshine Magnetite Projects has been sufficient to allow the estimation of Mineral Resources for both projects.

Since January 2016, there has been a continued growth in the premium attaching to higher grade +65% Fe (being the target grade for the Company’s Lake Giles Iron Project) against the 62% Fe benchmark, and benchmark prices have continued to hold throughout the March 2021 quarter, prices for 62% Fe have climbed closer to USD$200 during the quarter. These are some of the highest prices for iron ore that have been seen in many years. The Board remains confident that current market and the initiation of global stimulus measures provides an opportunity for the Company to advance its objectives. However, the Company will continually monitor events and adjust to circumstances as they arise.

Ularring Hematite Project

The Ularring Hematite Project’s Mineral Resources are comprised of Indicated Mineral Resources of approximately 54.5 Mt @ 47.2% Fe and approximately 26Mt @ 45.4% Fe Inferred resources. The Mineral Resource estimates were prepared by CSA Global on behalf of Macarthur Minerals (NI43-101 Technical Report, 2012[1] ) and reported in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards for Mineral Resources and Reserves 2014.

The Company has received approval to develop an iron ore mine for the Ularring Hematite Project and associated infrastructure at the project location under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 and the Environmental and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 . On March 26, 2021 the Company made application two miscellaneous licences to support the development of a mining camp and crushing and screening operations near the Snark deposit of the Ularring Hematite Project.

During the quarter, the Company engaged Orelogy Mining Consultants to commence mine planning for a smallscale DSO operation focusing on the Snark and Drabble Downs deposits. Preliminary pit optimisations have been completed with the next stage to focus on detailed pit designs and scheduling.

1 NI 43-101 Technical Report filed October 1, 2012, titled “NI 43-101 Technical Report, Macarthur Minerals Limited, Pre-Feasibility Study, Ularring Hematite Project, Western Australia.”

Page 2 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Discussion on Operations (Cont’d)

Moonshine Magnetite Project

On August 12, 2020 Macarthur released an updated Mineral Resource estimate for the Lake Giles Magnetite Project[2] . The Mineral Resource estimates includes Measured Mineral Resources of approximately 53.9Mt @ 30.8% Fe, Indicated Mineral Resources of 218.7 Mt @ 27.5% Fe and Inferred Mineral Resources of 997.0 Mt @ 28.4% Fe.

The company has commenced its work for a Feasibility Study (FS) focusing on the Moonshine magnetite deposit at Lake Giles. That work is well underway with the Mineral Resource estimates of the Moonshine deposit having been completed and released to the market on August 12, 2020. The Company filed the NI43-101 Technical Report on SEDAR, as announced on October 1, 2020[3] .

On March 26, 2021 the Company made application for two “water search miscellaneous licenses” for the purpose of exploring for groundwater to support magnetite processing for the Lake Giles Iron Project. The applications cover 533 km[2] of the Rebecca Palaeovalley up to 35 km east of the Project. Prior to these applications the Company engaged CGG to undertake an aerial EM survey of the palaeochannels to as announced on March 26, 2021. The survey data will be used to define groundwater drilling targets.

On June 25, 2020, the Company lodged applications for tenure to construct a haul road and rail siding to support the Lake Giles Iron Project. Miscellaneous license application L16/133 will be used to construct a 93km haul road from the Moonshine deposit to a rail siding adjacent to the rail network, owned by Arc. The rail siding will be located on the applications for miscellaneous license L15/409 and exploration license E15/1775.

During the quarter, the Company engaged engineering consultants, Engenium (a division of Stantec) to complete the process and non-process engineering design. Engenium is currently managing the metallurgical test work program that will inform the process design. The Company submitted bulk samples of magnetite core to Bureau Veritas to complete the metallurgical test work under the supervision of Engenium. The Company also commenced a program of geotechnical drilling and contracted iDrilling to complete an 8 hole diamond drilling campaign with drilling commenced on 17 July 2021.

Treppo Grande & Mt Jackson Iron Ore Project

On February 15, 2018, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, Esperance Iron Ore Export Company Pty Ltd (“EIOEC”) made an application for Exploration License E77/2521 for the Treppo Grande Iron Ore Project (“Treppo Grande Project”).

The Treppo Grande Project covers an area of 68 km[2] and is located approximately 32 km west of the Lake Giles Projects. The project is also 35km east of Mineral Resource Ltd’s (MRL) Koolyanobbing Iron Ore Operations and is in close proximity to established rail infrastructure to the Port of Esperance.

This area had been held by a private exploration company wholly owned by renowned Kalgoorlie Prospector Mel Dalla-Costa for the past eight years under an Exploration License (EL77/1208). During this time, approval was granted for an exploration program of diamond drilling and geophysical mapping. The Treppo Grande Project has already benefited from flora and fauna baseline surveys indicating that the conservation values of Mt Manning are a lower priority than surrounding BIF ridges.

The Treppo Grande Project was explored in recent years for high grade hematite iron ore mineralisation. Historical exploration identified three potentially economic styles of Direct Shipping Ore (“DSO”) mineralisation including massive dense hematitic ironstones, specular hematite and oxidised ‘Indurated Detrital Ironstone’. A drilling programme consisting of two diamond holes penetrated the hematitic ironstone at the J-Hook prospect.

Significant intercepts include 17.5m @ 65.49% Fe from 2.5m from hole MMS002 and 40.4m @ 55.77% Fe from 3.6 m from hole MMS001. The iron-rich mineralisation (> 55% Fe) is centered on the J-Hook prospect that contains occurrences of massive, fissile and specular hematite. The Company also has two iron ore exploration areas (E77/2543 and E77/2542) in the Yilgarn region, adding an additional 42km[2] to the Company’s portfolio. These tenements are adjacent to the Mt Jackson and Deception iron ore deposits owned by MRL.

2 Refer to the Company’s news release dated August 12, 2020.

3 Refer to the Company’s news release dated October 1, 2020.

Page 3 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN GOLD PROJECTS

Hillside Gold Project

The Hillside Gold Project encompasses Exploration License E45/4685, E45/4824, E45/4708 and E45/4709 held by Macarthur Lithium Pty Ltd (“MLi”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Macarthur Minerals. This group of tenements is located approximately 185 kilometers (“km”) South East of Port Hedland and 50 km South West of Marble Bar (the “Hillside Gold Project”) in Western Australia.

The Hillside Gold Project is highly prospective for gold and copper. The area has previously been explored by various companies for gold, copper, zinc and lead but limited drilling exists.

These tenements surround the mining lease of the historic Edelwiess gold mine. A limited drilling program consisting of six rotary percussion (“RC”) holes conducted by Metana Minerals N.L in 1980 intersected gold mineralisation associated with quartz veins. Gold was recorded in three holes with an average grade of approximately 12 g/t Au and a maximum of 25.83 Au g/t. In addition, sampling along a discontinuous outcropping gossan over a strike of 18 km, showed high potential for copper mineralisation. A total of 20 results yielded above 1,000 ppm Cu to a maximum of 7.8% Cu.

The gossan line was traced over a 14km strike length with remnant outcrop identified at regular intervals along strike. A total of 36 rock chip samples were collected including 15 from outcropping gossan with several samples containing visible copper minerals such as malachite. Remaining samples were collected from quartz outcrops, many of which returned strongly anomalous gold grades.

The assay results are highly encouraging with eight samples returning copper values over 1% with a peak of 18.8% Cu and often accompanied with elevated gold, silver and zinc values (+/- cobalt).

Exploration at the Hillside Project also discovered high grade manganese mineralisation in sub parallel outcrops to the gossan line sampled above. Rock chips samples returned a maximum of 59.4% MnO (>46% Mn).

A drilling program focussing on the gossan line and outcropping quartz reefs was completed by FEL under an option agreement. A total of 36 holes for 1798 metres was drilled. Assay results returned from the laboratory demonstrate support for a mineralised gossan model with down dip extension of mineralised gossan at surface intercepted in three holes with the following results:

  • HRC001: 1m @ 0.19% Cu, 230ppm Co, 0.14% Zn, 0.07ppm Au from 28m

  • HRC022: 1m @ 0.74% Cu, 349ppm Co, 0.41% Zn, 0.14ppm Au from 83m

  • HRC036: 1m @ 0.18% Cu, 0.12% Zn from 25m and 1m @0.27% Cu from 40m.

During the period, FEL conducted further exploration activities on the Hillside tenements following the drilling program completed in 2019. A Fixed Loop Electromagnetic (FLEM) survey was conducted in July 2020 across several high priority targets generated from the SkyTEM electromagnetic survey in 2018 and drilling in late 2019. The survey data is currently being processed and interpreted. The Option Agreement with FEL was terminated on September 15, 2020 with Macarthur retaining full title to the tenements.

Strelley Gorge & Tambourah tenements

Macarthur holds the Strelley Gorge and Tambourah tenements in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The Strelley Gorge tenement (E45/4735) is prospective for DSO iron ore and is located immediately adjacent to the Abydos iron ore project that has been mined by Atlas Iron. The Tambourah tenement (E45/5324) is also prospective for iron ore having intersected iron ore in historical drilling by Atlas Iron. The drilling focussed an outcropping BIF prospect in the north of the tenement. Macarthur considers both tenements prospective for iron ore and is in the process of transferring the tenements to its iron ore focused subsidiary Macarthur Iron Ore Pty Ltd, with Macarthur Lithium Pty Ltd (MLi) retaining the non-iron ore rights.

Panorama Gold Project

The Panorama Gold Project encompasses Exploration Licenses E45/4732, E454764 and E45/4779 held by MLi, covering a total of 278km[2] .

The Panorama Gold Project is located 265km south-south-east of Karratha in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia. The project is prospective for lithium and gold hosted within conglomerate. The tenement group contains an extensive area of the Mt Roe Basalt which is the geological member of the Fortescue Group that overlies the conglomerate gold horizon at Artemis Resources Limited’s Purdy’s Reward Project near Karratha, Western Australia.

Page 4 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Discussion on Operations (Cont’d)

In May and July 2018, the Company conducted stream sediment sampling programs across the tenements. During the geochemical survey a total of 45 samples were collected from selected drainage courses confirming several anomalous sediment values ranging from 13 ppb to 113 ppb Gold. This area was previously identified from historical rock chip sampling program with values of up to 3.5 g/t Au.

The Panorama Gold Project formed part of the earn-in agreement with FEL, which was terminated on September 15,2020, following FEL’s election not to earn-in on a 25% Stage 1 Interest.

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN NICKEL AND COBALT PROJECTS

The Company has identified two areas prospective for sulphide hosted base metal deposits based on historical drill results at the Snark and Moonshine prospects, located on the Company’s Lake Giles Projects in the Yilgarn, Western Australia.

The Snark prospect is considered to be a highly favorable tectonic and structural setting and is well supported by surface geology featuring volcanic sequences comprising of high Mg basalts and Kambalda type komatiitic ultramafic flows in which nickel-sulfide ore bodies are hosted. In February 2018, a reconnaissance trip to the area discovered surface rock samples containing the cobalt mineral asbolite with assays reporting up to 2.6% cobalt and 2.0% nickel.

The Moonshine prospect has also been identified as prospective for nickel sulphide deposits from previous drilling. Anomalous nickel values including 0.9% Ni from 10.5 meters to 22 meters including 1 meter at 1.4% nickel were detected within the first 30 meters of a diamond drill hole completed by the company in 2012.

Anomalous cobalt averaging 0.13% was also discovered from 18.5 meters to 22 meters.

The Company has completed Moving Loop Electromagnetic (“MLEM”) and Fixed-Loop Electromagnetic (“FLEM”) surveys across three prospect areas: Moonshine, Snark and Clark Hill. Interpretation of the MLEM and FLEM survey identified three high priority nickel sulphide targets, consisting of two distinct bedrock conductors at Moonshine and a further bedrock conductor at Snark. Preliminary Reverse Circulation “RC” drilling of two holes for 395 meters intersected sulphide minerals at depth with sulphide mineralisation open at depth with the hole ending in sulphide mineralisation. Semi-massive sulphide comprising 20% pyrite/pyrrhotite was recorded over 12m in hole 18MRC002 from 185m to end of hole (“EOH”). Anomalous nickel was found in hole 18MNRC001 with average 0.2% Ni over 31 meters (“m”). Potassic alteration was identified in hole 18MRC001 from 140m to 146m (20% Potassium content) marginal to the sulphide intersection in the hole. Anomalous gold associated with sulfidic chert was also found in interval 106m to 113m in hole 18MNRC001 (average gold content 159 part per billion (“ppb”) over the interval). Both holes had successfully intersected sulphide minerals at depth and semi-massive sulphide comprising 20% pyrite/pyrrhotite was recorded over 12m in hole 18MRC002 from 185m to end of hole (“EOH”). Sulphide mineralisation is open at depth and on strike with the hole ending in sulphide mineralisation.

A follow up Stage 2 drilling program is planned to determine the extent and depth of the mineralisation and whether the sulphide mineralisation is an indicator of a nickel sulphide mineralisation system deeper in the succession or close by. The initial holes will be drilled deeper through the sequence with a diamond tail.

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN LITHIUM PROJECTS

Macarthur Minerals has 11 Exploration Licenses in the Pilbara covering a total area of approximately 721km[2] .

Tambourah Lithium Project

The Tambourah Lithium Project consists of Exploration License E45/4848 and is located approximately 200 km southeast of Port Hedland and 80 km southwest of Marble Bar in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Assays received from rock chip sampling returned very promising results of up to 1.47% lithium (Li2O), confirming the presence of lithium bearing pegmatites.

The Company also holds Exploration License E45/5324, which is near its Tambourah Lithium Project in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia. A review of historical data indicates the area is prospective for nickelcopper-cobalt and platinum group element mineralization.

Page 5 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Discussion on Operations (Cont’d)

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN GOLD AND LITHIUM PROJECTS EARN-IN AGREEMENT

On May 14, 2019, Macarthur entered into an option agreement (replaced by the “New Option Agreement” signed on August 28, 2019) with ASX listed exploration Company Fe Ltd (ASX: FEL) to acquire up to 75% of the 18 tenements in the Pilbara.

On September 15, 2020, the FEL JV agreement was terminated following a decision by FEL not to earn-in on a 25% Stage 1 Interest (“Stage 1 Interest”) in Macarthur’s gold and lithium tenements. Macarthur (through MLi) now retains 100% of the gold and lithium projects in the Pilbara. Macarthur intends to spin-out its Pilbara tenements to realise improved value for shareholders into Infinity Mining Limited to list on the Australian Securities Exchange later this year, subject to exchange approvals.

NEVADA BRINE LITHIUM PROJECT

Reynolds Springs Lithium Brine Project

The Reynolds Springs lithium brine project consists of 210 new unpatented placer mining claims covering an area of 7 square miles (18 km[2] ) located in Railroad Valley, near the town of Currant, in Nye County, Nevada (“Reynolds Springs Project”). The Reynolds Springs Project is located approximately 180 miles (300 km) North of Las Vegas, Nevada, and 330 miles (531 km) South East of Tesla’s new Gigafactory, which has a planned production capacity of 35 gigawatt-hours per year by 2020.

A total of 206 soil samples were collected across the full extent of the Reynolds Springs Project. Lithium values in the soil samples ranged from a low of 39.3 ppm to a high of 405 ppm Li. Samples were consistently high averaging 168.3 ppm Li with 85% of samples recording over 100 ppm Li and 19% greater than 200 ppm Li. These results are considered high in comparison to the majority of non-lithium producing playas and amongst the highest we have seen outside of the Clayton Valley.

In 2018 the Company completed an assessment of downhole geophysical logs for 12 – 15 abandoned oil and gas wells that are found both within (5 wells) and in the near vicinity of the project. Several zones of high conductivity were identified that are interpreted as being indicative of brine aquifers. The Company is now looking for a partner to advance exploration of this project.

Page 6 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Discussion on Operations (Cont’d)

MINERAL TENURE

As at August 31, 2021 the Company holds or has interests in the following properties:

Tenement
**Number **
Area(1) Area(1) Application/Grant Date Expiry Date Holder Project
Yilgarn Projects
M30/0206 189 HA 14-Nov-18 01-Jul-28 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0207 171 HA 02-Jul-07 01-Jul-28 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0213 258 HA 02-Jul-07 12-Jun-32 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0214 260 HA 13-Jun-11 12-Jun-32 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0215 521 HA 13-Jun-11 12-Jun-32 MIO Lake Giles Project
M30/0216 55 HA 13-Jun-11 12-Jun-32 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0217 114 HA 13-Jun-11 12-Jun-32 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0227 504 HA 13-Jun-11 12-Jun-32 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0228 362 HA 13-Jun-11 01-Jul-28 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0229 205 HA 02-Jul-07 01-Jul-28 MIO Lake Giles Project
M30/0248 585 HA 02-Jul-07 21-Feb-33 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0249 1206 HA 22-Feb-12 21-Feb-33 MIO Lake Giles Project
M30/0250 102 HA 22-Feb-12 04-Mar-34 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0251 1246 HA 05-Mar-13 26-Nov-33 MIO Lake GilesProject
M30/0252 478 HA 27-Nov-12 26-May-34 MIO Lake GilesProject
L15/0409 HA Under
Application
MIO Lake Giles Project
L16/0133 HA Under
Application
MIO Lake Giles Project
L30/0071 1396 HA 27-May-13 Under
Application
MIO Lake Giles Project
HA
L30/0089 HA Under
Application
MIO Lake Giles Project
L30/0090 HA Under
Application
MIO Lake Giles Project
L30/0091 HA Under
Application
MIO Lake Giles Project
L30/0092 HA Under
Application
MIO Lake Giles Project
L30/0093 HA Under
Application
MIO Lake Giles Project
E30/522 28 SB 13-May-21 12-May-26 MIO Lake GilesProject
E77/2543 3 SB 14-Nov-18 13-Nov-23 EIOEC Mount Jackson Project
E77/2542 12 SB 04-Feb-20 03-Feb-25 EIOEC Mount Jackson Project
E77/2521 23 SB 24-Apr-18 Under
Application
EIOEC Mount Manning Project
Pilbara Projects
E45/4848 1 SB 14-Dec-17 13-Dec-22 MLi PilbaraProject
E46/1210 14 SB 02-Jul-18 01-Jul-23 MLi PilbaraProject
E45/5324 4 SB 05-Apr-19 04-Apr-24 MLi PilbaraProject
E45/4685 11 SB 12-Jan-17 11-Jan-22 MLi(2) PilbaraProject
E45/4708 27 SB 21-Nov-17 20-Nov-22 MLi(2) Pilbara Project
E45/4709 22 SB 21-Nov-17 20-Nov-22 MLi(2) PilbaraProject
E45/4764 4 SB 10-Aug-17 09-Aug-22 MLi(2) Pilbara Project
E45/4735 5 SB 21-Nov-17 20-Nov-22 MLi(2) PilbaraProject
E45/4779 33 SB 16-Jan-18 15-Jan-23 MLi(2) PilbaraProject
E45/4824 65 SB 05-Dec-17 04-Dec-22 MLi(2) PilbaraProject
E45/4732 43 SB 21-Nov-17 20-Nov-22 MLi(2) PilbaraProject
Nevada Projects
RVL 1to210 1700 HA 1-Sept-20 MLN NevadaLithium Project

(1) 1 sub-block (SB) = approx. 3.2km2 in the Pilbara and 2.8km2 in the Yilgarn.

(2) Tenements subject to an earn-in agreement with FE Limited

Page 7 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Corporate Update

Legal Proceedings

LPD v. Macarthur and Ors. (“New Proceedings”)

On November 26, 2013, the New Proceedings were stayed by consent pending payment of the indemnity costs of the dismissed Initial Proceedings and the appeal costs by LPD and Mayson. No steps have been taken in the New Proceedings by the plaintiff since January 22, 2015 and this matter remains ongoing.

Memorandum of Understanding with Southern Ports Authority

On January 29, 2021, the Company signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Southern Ports Authority (“SPA”) which provides a pathway for agreeing a potential access and operating solution for the export of Macarthur’s high grade magnetite iron ore product via the Port of Esperance (“Port”).

The MOU is non-binding but it does establish a clear pathway for i) the design of a 300,000 tonne storage shed (“shed”) by Macarthur, ii) the design of a new rail car unloading solution at the Port by Macarthur (presently proposed to be an Australian-first Helix rail car unloading solution and associated tube conveyor) (“Helix Dumper”), iii) the approval of the shed and Helix Dumper designs by SPA and iv) the identification of suitable land by SPA for the construction of the shed and Helix Dumper within the Port.

A conceptual engineering design report was completed by RCR Mining Technologies Pty Ltd in 2020, for the proposed Helix Dumper and, subject to mutually satisfactory engineering design and approval processes for the shed and Helix Dumper being completed (and suitable land being identified by SPA for their construction), the parties intend to commence good faith negotiations on the terms of binding commercial agreements which will be necessary for Macarthur to i) construct, operate and maintain the shed and Helix Dumper; and ii) to access the Berth 3 ship loader at the Port. Negotiations on final infrastructure selection and layout are continuing as SPA undertakes its master planning process at Esperance Port, and any binding commercial agreements in relation to the shed, rail unloading infrastructure and ship loader access will be conditional upon agreed milestones being met by Macarthur (including financing for its Lake Giles Iron Project).

Feasibility Study Progression

On April 15, 2021, the Company announced that the preliminary mine planning work for Lake Giles Project has been completed by Orelogy Mining Consultants (Orelogy) in conjunction with Pells Sullivan Meyninck (PSM). During July 2021, an 8 hole geotechnical drill programme commenced at Moonshine and Moonshine North to support finalization of mine planning work to be undertaken by Orelogy and on July 20, 2021 the Company appointed the lead consultant Stantec to complete the metallurgical process test work, process flow sheet development and key non-process infrastructure engineering design work for the Feasibility Study.

Advancement of DSO for Lake Giles Ularring Hematite Project

On May 26, 2021 the Company announced that it is advancing mine planning work to support intended hematite mining operations at Lake Giles in Western Australia. The Company has commenced work to prepare a mine plan for a direct shipment ore (DSO) product under a mining campaign which will initially target the Snark and Drabble Downs deposits of the Lake Giles Ularring Hematite Project.

For this purpose, Macarthur in June 2021 made an application for a Miscellaneous Licence covering an area of 74 hectares adjacent to Snark DSO project to host non-process infrastructure and on July 8, 2021, it announced that the Company has entered into a term sheet with rail haulage service provider Pacific National, regarding the transport by rail of up to 400,000 tonnes per annum of iron ore between Kalgoorlie and Esperance.

Agreement with LAVO Hydrogen Technology Holding Pty Ltd

On June 1, 2021 Macarthur announced that it has signed a Strategic Partnership and Collaboration Agreement (“Agreement”) with LAVO Hydrogen Technology Holding Pty Ltd (“LAVO”) to investigate the facilitation of a staged technology solution that is intended to deliver a clear carbon reduction strategy for Macarthur’s flagship Lake Giles Iron Project (“Project”) in the Yilgarn region of Western Australia, with a first phased roll-out to support Macarthur’s intended early hematite direct shipment ore (“DSO”) mining operations at Ularring.

Page 8 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Corporate Update (Cont’d)

LAVO uses an innovative, patented metal hydride to produce hydrogen energy batteries. The battery system acts as a solar sponge, integrating with solar arrays to capture and store renewable energy for use when needed. The unit creates Hydrogen from water, stores the Hydrogen into LAVO’s patented metal hydride and generates electricity by converting hydrogen into power.

Co-operation Agreement with Jin Sung International

On June 15, 2021, Macarthur announced that it had entered into a Co-operation Agreement with diversified Singaporean based conglomerate Jin Sung International Pte Ltd, paving the way for a potential strategic investment into Macarthur’s iron ore and non-iron ore assets. The non-binding Co-operation Agreement sets out the terms upon which the parties intend to progress discussions on the development of a transaction involving a strategic equity investment. A potential transaction between the parties may take the form of a strategic equity investment into Macarthur’s iron ore assets or non-iron ore assets, or the provision of direct project financing.

Early Direct Shipment Ore updates

On July 14, 2021, Macarthur announced that it has signed a binding term sheet with an Australian iron ore producer GWR Group Limited (ASX: GWR) (GWR) under a deal which will enable Macarthur to complete a mine gate purchase from GWR of up to 400,000 tonnes per annum of DSO product from GWR’s Wiluna West Iron Ore Project, located in Western Australia for an initial period of 2 years, with the ability to extend for up to a further 2 years and a first right of refusal to purchase tonnages in excess of 400,000 per annum if Macarthur has access to matching rail and port capacity.

The sale price for GWR’s DSO will reflect an equitable split of the realised sale price on a FOB basis at the ship rail, having regard to Macarthur’s costs to transport the product, which will be disclosed on an open book basis between the parties. The term sheet is subject to the parties entering into a definitive agreement following completion of the balance of the route to market arrangements by Macarthur on a basis that is commercially acceptable to both parties.

On July 8, 2021 Macarthur also announced that it had entered into a binding term sheet with Pacific National under which Macarthur has secured up to 400,000 tonnes per annum of rail capacity along the rail line between Kalgoorlie and Esperance, supporting a potential DSO export pathway.

Further to the above, on August 5, 2021, Macarthur announced that it has agreed terms with Aurizon, for the transport of direct shipment ore (DSO) at a rate of up to 500,000 tonnes per annum between West Kalgoorlie and Kwinana. The term of the agreement is for 12 months and is subject to conditions including Macarthur securing matching port capacity and Aurizon satisfying regulatory approvals.

The combined rail paths also provide an opportunity to export direct shipment ore (DSO) lump and fines products secured from GWR Group (ASX: GWR) under a recently announced mine-gate sale agreement

Repositioning of Non-Iron Ore Pilbara Assets

On August 3, 2021, Macarthur announced that CPS Corporate Advisors (CPS) has been appointed as the lead Broker for the proposed spin out of the Company’s Pilbara gold, copper and lithium tenements (Pilbara Assets). The Company’s wholly owned subsidiary Macarthur Lithium Pty Ltd, which holds the Company’s Pilbara Assets was converted to a public company and renamed Infinity Mining Limited (Infinity). Under the agreement with CPS, Infinity proposes to undertake an initial public offering (IPO) and make application for listing on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) in the coming months. Under an agreement with Zanil Pty Ltd, Infinity retains the rights to acquire additional assets in the Central Goldfields upon completing the listing process.

Page 9 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Results of Operations and Financial Condition

(All amounts in Australian dollars)

The following financial information should be read in conjunction with the Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the three-month period ending June 30, 2021 which are prepared in accordance with IFRS.

Exploration and Evaluation Expenses

Capitalized exploration and evaluation costs for the Iron Ore Projects are as follows:

Australian $ Quarter Ended
June 30, 2021
Quarter Ended
June 30, 2020
Capitalized
expenses
427,948 219,660

For the quarter ended June 30, 2021, the Company expended $427,948 on exploration and evaluation activities. For the corresponding quarter ended June 30, 2020, the Company expended $219,660 on exploration and evaluation activities. This represents an increase in expenditure of $208,288. The largest elements of exploration and evaluation costs during the quarter were research and reports and personnel and contractors representing 67% and 15% respectively.

Exploration and evaluation expenditure is accumulated separately for each area of interest and capitalised to exploration and evaluation assets. Such expenditure comprises net direct costs but does not include general overheads or administrative expenditure not having a specific nexus with a particular area of interest. Expenditure in respect of any area of interest or mineral resource is carried forward provided that:

  • the Company’s rights of tenure to that area of interest are current;

  • such costs are expected to be recouped through successful development and exploitation of the area of interest or, alternatively by its sale; or

  • exploration and/or evaluation activities in the areas of interest have not yet reached a stage which permits a reasonable assessment of the existence or otherwise of economically recoverable reserves, and active and significant operations in, or in relation to, the areas are continuing.

All other exploration and evaluation expenditure is expensed as incurred. Exploration and evaluation expenditure previously capitalised but which no longer satisfies the above policy is impaired and expensed to the Statement of Loss and Other Comprehensive Loss.

The carrying value of the exploration and evaluation assets relates to the Iron Ore and Lithium Projects.

Administrative Expenses

Administrative expenses are expenses not directly related to the Lake Giles Iron Ore and Pilbara Projects and are expensed immediately.

Australian $ Quarter Ended
June 30, 2021
Quarter Ended
June 30, 2020
Administration
Expenses
(2,869,465) (889,681)

For the quarter ended June 30, 2021, the Company expended $2,869,465 on administrative expenses compared with administrative expenses of $889,681 for the corresponding quarter ended June 30, 2020. The largest elements of administrative expenses for the quarter were share based compensation and personnel fees of $2,052,589 and $441,090, respectively.

Page 10 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Results of Operations and Financial Condition (Cont’d)

Income

Income normally comprises interest income earned on the Company’s liquid financial instruments.

Australian $ Quarter
Ended June
30, 2021
Quarter
Ended June
30, 2020
Interest Income/(expense) 125 94
Gain/(loss)on foreign exchange 18,877 -
Other Income 604,760 31,158
Change in fair value of warrant liability 5,722,732 -
Other Comprehensive Income Items that
will not be reclassified subsequently to
profit or loss:
Change in fair value of investment (228,000) -

For the quarter ended June 30, 2021, the Company earned interest income of $125 compared with $94 for the corresponding quarter ended June 30, 2020. The Company also recognized other income of $604,760 which included $585,000 gain on sale of 13 million FE Ltd shares. Change in fair value of warrant liability for quarter was a gain of $5,722,732. The Company also recognized loss on foreign exchange of $18,877 during the quarter. Change in fair value of investment of $228,000 for the quarter represents decreased change in value of FE Ltd investment. Interest income is dependent upon interest rates and funds raised by the Company. Interest rates will vary due to market conditions and the Company has no control over the fluctuation of rates.

Income Taxes

Future tax assets have not been recognized in the financial statements as the directors believe it has not yet become probable that they will be recovered and utilized.

Net Losses

The total comprehensive loss for the period reflects the administrative costs of the Company, including sharebased compensation expense relating to employee and consultant share options.

Australian $ Quarter Ended
June 30, 2021
Quarter Ended
June 30, 2020
Total
comprehensive
loss/(gain)
(3,249,030) 858,429

The change in the result for the period ended June 30, 2021, being an increased gain of $4,107,459, was mainly attributable to change in fair value of warrant liability for the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

Change in Financial Position

Australian $ 3 months to
June 30, 2021
3 months to
June 30, 2020
Cash and cash equivalents 5,586,981 3,160,795
Exploration and Evaluation assets 67,941,493 66,437,906
Property,Plant and Equipment 54,484 60,240
Total Assets 74,837,662 70,523,115
Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities 1,367,265 415,317
Total Liabilities 6,609,485 9,009,454
Net Assets 68,228,177 61,513,661
Net WorkingCapital[1] 4,387,709 2,898,772

[1] The Net Working Capital of $4,387,709 (2020: $2,898,772) excludes those amounts attributable to the warrant liability of $4,860,240 (2020: $899,565) and convertible note liability of nil (2020: $7,266,386) on the basis that the Company does not have any obligation to redeem the warrants for cash. These financial instruments have been designated as a current liability in their entirety in order to comply with International Financial Reporting Standards due to the terms and conditions of the conversion features inherent within the derivative attached to the relevant host contract.

Page 11 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Results of Operations and Financial Condition (Cont’d)

At June 30, 2021, the Company had net assets of $68,228,177, compared to $61,513,661 at June 30, 2020.

The Company’s cash and cash equivalents balance of $5,586,981 as at June 30, 2021, was an increase of $2,426,186 from the June 30, 2020 balance mainly due to private placements. Refer below for the cash flow movement for the three months to June 30, 2021.

Plant and equipment was $54,484 at June 30, 2021 reflecting the depreciated book value of various site, motor

vehicle and office equipment.

The Company’s net working capital at June 30, 2021 was $4,387,709 compared with a net working capital of $2,898,772 at June 30, 2020. The increase in the net working capital for the 12 months to June 30, 2021 is mainly due to funds raised via private placements.

Year to Date Cash Flows

lows
Australian $ 3 months to
June 30, 2021
3 months to
June 30, 2020
OperatingActivities 304,847 (1,122,418)
InvestingActivities (13,073) (219,690)
FinancingActivities 277,037 (15,262)
Total cash movement 568,811 (1,357,370)

Cash inflow from operating activities during the period ended June 30, 2021 was $304,847 compared with cash outflow of $1,122,418 for the prior corresponding period.

Cash outflow from investing activities during the period ended June 30, 2021 was $13,073, compared with

$219,690 in the prior corresponding period. This is due to sale of 13million FE Ltd shares.

Cash inflow from financing activities during the period was $277,037 compared with cash outflow of $15,262 for the corresponding prior period.

Summary of Quarterly Information

The following table sets forth a comparison of revenues and earnings for the previous eight quarters ending with June 30, 2021. This financial information is derived from the Condensed Interim Financial Statements, and the Annual Audited Financial Statements of the Company.

Sept 30,
2019
$
Dec 31,
2019
$
Mar 31,
2020
$
Jun 30,
2020
$
Sept 30,
2020
$
Dec 31,
2020
$
Mar 31,
2021
$
Jun 30,
2021
$
Interest Income 348 197 187 94 56 66 252 125
Total
Comprehensive
profit/(loss)
1,048,101 (4,925,004) 172,809 (858,429) (12,075,267) 2,009,443 (4,128,053) 3,249,030
Basic and
diluted
profit/(loss) per
share
0.004 (0.0166) 0.017 (0.010) (0.1093) 0.0144 (0.030) 2.48

The Company has not recognized any revenue or incurred any loss from discontinued operations or extraordinary items since becoming a reporting issuer.

The Basic and diluted profit/(loss) per share for the June 30, 2021 quarter reflects an adjustment to other income of $5,722,732 due to the fair value of warrant liability as at June 30, 2021. The most significant factor affecting quarterly losses is continuing administrative expenses.

Page 12 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Liquidity and Capital Resources

At June 30, 2021, the Company had a net working capital of $4,387,709.

The Company’s has no external borrowings.

The Company anticipates its cash expenditure requirements will remain stable as the Company continues exploration and evaluation activities but will continue to raise additional capital as required from time to time.

Related Party Transactions

Balances and transactions between the Company and its wholly owned subsidiaries, which are related parties of the Company, have been eliminated on consolidation and are not disclosed in this MD&A. There were no transactions between the Company and related parties in the wholly owned Group during the period ended June 30, 2021 other than remuneration for key management personnel, details are disclosed below. The terms and conditions of those transactions were no more favorable than those that it is reasonable to expect that an entity would have adopted if dealing on an arm’s length basis.

Directors

The following persons were Directors of the Company during the period ended June 30, 2021.

Executive Directors

Joe Phillips, Managing Director (as of December 1, 2020)

Non-Executive Directors

Cameron McCall, Chairman (as of December 1, 2020)

Alan Phillips, Non-Executive Director

Andrew Suckling, Non-Executive Director

Daniel Joseph Lanskey, Non-Executive Director

Management

Andrew Bruton, Chief Executive Officer (as of December 1, 2020)

Details of Remuneration

For details on the remuneration of each key management personnel of the Company refer to Note 8 of the Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the period end June 30, 2021.

Other transactions with key management personnel

A number of key management personnel, or close members of their family, hold positions in other entities that result in them having significant influence over those entities for the purposes of International Accounting Standard (“IAS”) 24. Where transactions are entered into with those entities the terms and conditions are no more favorable than those that it is reasonable to expect the entity would have adopted if dealing on an arm’s length basis.

The Company did not enter into any transactions with entities over which key management personnel have significant influence during the period and the corresponding prior period.

Commitments

Exploration expenditures

Certain future exploration expenditures are required to be undertaken by the Company as a minimum retention for exploration permits. These expenditures are set out in Note 5 to the Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended June 30, 2021.

Apart from the above, the Company has no other material commitments at the balance sheet date.

Page 13 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

The Company has not engaged in any off-balance sheet arrangements such as obligations under guarantee contracts, nor has it any retained or contingent interests in assets transferred to an unconsolidated entity. The Company has not committed to any obligations under any derivative instruments or any obligation under a material variable interest in an unconsolidated entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit risk support to the Company or engages in leasing, hedging or research and development services with the Company.

Risks and Uncertainties

The Company is subject to a number of risk factors due to the nature of its business and the present stage of exploration and evaluation. The following risk factors should be considered:

GENERAL

The Company is an Australian company listed on the TSX-V and ASX and engaged in the exploration and evaluation of mineral properties in Australia and in the United States.

The recoverability of the Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves are dependent upon the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary financing to continue exploration and evaluation of its properties, and upon future profitable production or proceeds from the disposition of the properties.

Resource exploration and evaluation is a speculative business and involves a high degree of risk, including, among other things, unprofitable efforts resulting both from the failure to discover mineral deposits and from finding mineral deposits which, though present, are insufficient in size and grade at the then prevailing market conditions to return a profit from production. The marketability of natural resources which may be acquired or discovered by the Company will be affected by numerous factors beyond the control of the Company.

The marketability of natural resources which may be acquired or discovered by the Company will be affected by numerous factors beyond the control of the Company.

These factors include market fluctuations, the proximity and capacity of natural resource markets, government regulations, including regulations relating to prices, taxes, royalties, land use, infrastructure, importing and exporting of minerals and environmental protection. The exact effect of these factors cannot be accurately predicted, but the combination of these factors may result in the Company not receiving an adequate return on invested capital.

The amount of the Company’s administrative expenditures is related to the level of financing and exploration and evaluation activities that are being conducted, which in turn may depend on the Company’s recent exploration and evaluation experience and prospects, as well as the general market conditions relating to the availability of funding for exploration and evaluation stage resource companies. Consequently, the Company does not acquire properties or conduct exploration and evaluation work on them on a pre-determined basis and as a result there may not be predictable or observable trends in the Company’s business activities and comparisons of financial operating results with prior years may not be meaningful.

The Directors of the Company will, to the best of their knowledge, experience and ability (in conjunction with their management) endeavor to anticipate, identify and manage the risks inherent in the activities of the Company, but without assuming any personal liability for the same, with the aim of eliminating, avoiding and mitigating the impact of risks on the performance of the Company and its securities.

RISKS RELATING TO THE BUSINESS OF THE COMPANY

Going Concern (Trends)

The Company’s financial success is dependent upon the discovery of commercial Mineral Resources on its projects which could be economically viable to develop. Such development could take several years to complete and the resulting income, if any, is difficult to determine at this time. The sales value of any mineralization discovered by the Company is largely dependent upon factors beyond the Company’s control, such as the market value of the products produced.

Other than as disclosed herein, the Company is not aware of any trends, uncertainties, demands, commitments or events which are reasonably likely to have a material effect on the Company’s sales or revenues, income from continuing operations, profitability, liquidity or capital resources, or that would cause reported financial information not necessarily to be indicative of future operating results or financial condition.

Page 14 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Risks and Uncertainties (Cont’d)

Going Concern (Funding)

There are 20,690,513 warrants due to expire in the next 4 months, and if they were to be exercised in accordance with the terms and conditions of the warrants, this will result in a cash inflow of up to CAD$11,447,287. The Company has a $20million equity finance facility with L1 Capital (“Facility”). The Facility is an “at call” facility which entitles the Company to issue shares to L1 over 36 months under “Placement Notice(s)” which may be drawn upon and applied at the Group’s discretion to meet its operating needs and minimum financial requirements regarding its tenement obligations.

The Group will continue to monitor avenues to expand its key strategic assets whether this be in the form of additional equity raising or debt funding.

Reliance on Key Personnel (Management and Directors)

The Company’s development to date has largely depended, and in the future will continue to depend on the efforts of key management. Loss of any of these people could have a material adverse effect on the Company and its business, and therefore the trading price of its shares.

In this sense the Company has been, and continues to be, particularly reliant on the following directors and officers:

  • Cameron McCall – Chairman (as of December 1, 2020)

  • • Joe Phillips – Managing Director (as of December 1, 2020) • Andrew Bruton – CEO (as of December 1, 2020) • Alan Phillips – Non-Executive Director • Andrew Suckling – Non-Executive Director • Daniel Lanskey – Non-Executive Director

The Company does not maintain key person insurance on any of its management.

Risk of the General Market and Economic Conditions

Changes in the general economic climate in which Macarthur Minerals operates may adversely affect its financial performance, its exploration and evaluation activities, and its ability to fund those activities. Factors that may contribute to that economic climate include changes in global and/or domestic economic conditions, the general level of economic activity, movements in interest rates and inflation, currency exchange rates and other economic factors.

The price of commodities, and level of activity within the mining industry will also be of particular relevance to Macarthur Minerals. Neither Macarthur Minerals, nor the directors, warrant the future performance of the Company or any return on an investment in Macarthur Minerals.

Competitive Conditions Risk

The resource industry can be intensively competitive, and a number of other hematite, magnetite gold, and lithium deposits have already been developed and are under development in Australia. The Company competes with other mining companies for the acquisition of mineral claims and other mining interests, access to infrastructure as well as for the recruitment and retention of qualified employees and contractors.

The Company may be unable to acquire additional attractive mining properties on terms it considers to be acceptable. The inability of the Company to acquire attractive mining properties would result in difficulties in it obtaining future financing and profitable operations.

The Company competes with many other companies that have substantially greater financial resources than the Company and our ability to compete is dependent on being able to raise additional funds as and when required.

Risk that the Company has a Limited Operating History

The Company has limited experience in placing resource properties into production, and its ability to do so will be dependent upon using the services of appropriately experienced personnel or entering into agreements with other major resource companies that can provide such expertise. There can be no assurance that the Company will have available to it the necessary expertise when and if the projects come into production.

Page 15 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Risks and Uncertainties (Cont’d)

The Company has experienced losses in previous years of its operations. There can be no assurance that the Company will operate profitably in the future, if at all. As at June 30, 2021 the Company’s accumulated losses were $60,282,056.

Risk of Conflict of Interest

Certain officers and directors of the Company may be officers and/or directors of, or are associated with, other natural resource companies that acquire interests in mineral properties. Such associations may give rise to conflicts of interest from time to time.

Conflicts of interest affecting the directors and officers of Macarthur Minerals will be governed by Macarthur Minerals’ “Code of Conduct”, the Constitution of Macarthur, the Directors Conflict of Interests Policy, the provisions of the Corporations Act 2001 (C’th) and other applicable laws and relevant stock exchange policies and requirements.

The directors are required by law, to act honestly and in good faith with a view to the best interests of the Company.

In the event that such a conflict of interest arises at a meeting of the directors, a director affected by the conflict must disclose the nature and extent of their interest and abstain from voting for or against matters concerning the matter in respect of which the conflict arises.

Insurance Risk

Macarthur Minerals’ operations are subject to all of the risks and hazards typically associated with the exploration and evaluation of minerals. Macarthur Minerals maintains and intends to maintain insurance that is within ranges of coverage that believes to be consistent with industry practice and having regard to the nature of activities being conducted. No assurance however, can be given that Macarthur Minerals will be able to obtain such insurance coverage at reasonable rates or that any coverage it arranges will be adequate and available to cover any such claims.

The occurrence of an event that is not covered or fully covered by insurance could have a material adverse effect on the business, financial condition and results of Macarthur Minerals. Insurance of all risks associated with exploration and evaluation is not always available and where available the costs may be prohibitive.

Risk of Terrorist Attack or Other Sustained Armed Conflicts

Terrorist activities, anti-terrorist efforts or other armed conflict involving Canada, United States or Australia or their interests abroad may adversely affect the Canadian, United States, Australian and global economies. If events of this nature occur and persist, the associated political instability and societal disruption could reduce overall demand for commodities potentially putting downward pressure on prevailing commodity prices and adversely affect the Company’s activities.

RISK FACTORS RELATING TO FINANCE

Liquidity Risk (Solvency Risk)

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Company has in place a rigorous planning and budgeting process to help determine the funds required to meet its operating and growth objectives. The Company prepares cash forecasts and maintains cash balances to meet short- and long-term cash requirements.

There are 20,690,513 warrants due to expire in the next 4 months, and if they were to be exercised in accordance with the terms and conditions of the warrants, this will result in a cash inflow of up to CAD$11,447,287. The Company has a $20million equity finance facility with L1 Capital (“Facility”). The Facility is an “at call” facility which entitles the Company to issue shares to L1 over 36 months under “Placement Notice(s)” which may be drawn upon and applied at the Group’s discretion to meet its operating needs and minimum financial requirements regarding its tenement obligations.

The Group will continue to monitor avenues to expand its key strategic assets whether this be in the form of additional equity raising or debt funding.

Page 16 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Risks and Uncertainties (Cont’d)

Commodity Price Risk

The Company’s future revenues, if any, are expected to be in large part derived from the mining and sale of minerals or interests related thereto. The price of various minerals has fluctuated widely, particularly in recent years, and is affected by numerous factors beyond the Company’s control including international economic, financial and political conditions, expectations of inflation, international currency exchange rates, interest rates, global or regional consumptive patterns, speculative activities, levels of supply and demand, increased production due to new mine developments and improved mining and production methods, availability and costs of mineral substitutes, mineral stock levels maintained by producers and others and inventory carrying costs.

The effect of these factors on the price of various minerals, and therefore the economic viability of the Company’s operations cannot accurately be predicted. As the Company has not yet reached the mining stage, its exposure to price risk does not impact on the financial statements however price risk is a critical assumption for the Company’s reported Scoping Studies and Preliminary Feasibility Study) for the Lake Giles Iron Ore Projects (“Project Studies”). In addition, the oversupplied iron ore markets and depressed iron ore prices has previously constrained the Company’s ability to fund further development of its Lake Giles Iron Ore Projects.

Credit Risk

Credit risk is the potential loss through non-performance by counterparties of financial obligations. The Company’s primary exposure to credit risk is on its cash and cash equivalents and taxes receivable. The Company limits its exposure to credit risk by maintaining its financial liquid assets with high-credit quality financial institutions. Receivables are primarily interest receivable and goods and services tax due from the Australian Taxation Office.

Risk Related to the Economics of Developing Mineral Properties

Substantial expenditures are required to establish reserves through drilling, to develop processes to extract minerals and to develop the mining and processing facilities and infrastructure at any site chosen for mining. Although substantial benefits may be derived from the discovery of a major mineralized deposit, no assurance can be given that minerals will be discovered in sufficient quantities to justify commercial operations or that the funds required for development can be obtained on a timely basis. The marketability of any minerals acquired or discovered may be affected by numerous factors which are beyond the Company’s control and which cannot be predicted, such as market fluctuations, the proximity and capacity of milling facilities, mineral markets and processing equipment, and such other factors as government regulations, including regulations relating to royalties, allowable production, importing and exporting of minerals, and environmental protection.

Depending on the price of minerals produced, the Company may determine that it is impractical to commence commercial production.

Currency Risk

The Company's revenues and expenses will be incurred in Australian dollars and US dollars, though its financings may be completed in Canadian dollars. Although the Company has taken certain steps to help mitigate foreign currency fluctuations, there is no assurance that the activities or products are or will continue to be effective. Accordingly, the inability of the Company to obtain or to put in place effective hedges could materially increase exposure to fluctuations in the value of the Canadian dollar relative to the Australian dollar. This could adversely affect the Company’s financial position and operating results.

Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in market interest rates. The Company’s cash equivalents are highly liquid and earn interest at market rates in short term fixed term deposits and variable chequing accounts. Due to the short-term nature of these financial instruments, fluctuations in market interest rates do not have a significant impact on the fair values of these financial instruments.

Risk of Unforeseen Expenses

While Macarthur Minerals is currently not aware of any expenses that may need to be incurred that have not been taken into account, if such expenses were subsequently incurred, the expenditure proposals of Macarthur Minerals may be adversely affected.

Page 17 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Risks and Uncertainties (Cont’d)

RISK FACTORS RELATING TO THE SECURITIES OF THE COMPANY

Risk of Share Price and Market Volatility

The market price of shares can be expected to rise and fall in accordance with general market conditions and factors specifically affecting the Canadian, United States and Australian resources sector, Canadian, United States and Australian listed entities and exploration companies in particular. During the period ended June 30, 2021, the closing price per share of the Company fluctuated from a low of CAD$0.40 to a high of CAD$0.51.

There are a number of factors (both national and international) that may affect the share market price and neither Macarthur Minerals nor its directors have control over those factors. There can be no assurance that continual fluctuations in price will not occur.

Factors that could affect the trading price that are unrelated to Macarthur’s performance include domestic and global commodity prices and economic outlook, fiscal and monetary policies, currency movements, and market perceptions of the attractiveness of particular industries. The shares carry no guarantee in respect of profitability, dividends, return on capital, price or degree of liquidity with which they trade on the TSX-V.

Shares Reserved for Issuance: Dilution Risk

Capital raisings to meet funding and property commitments will result in dilution to the Company’s shareholders. It is likely any additional capital required by the Company, as described above, may be raised through the issuance of additional equity securities which will result in dilution to the Company’s existing shareholders. Further, the Company, from time to time, is required to issue shares to earn its interests in properties. Such property share issuances will also result in dilution to the Company’s existing shareholders.

As at June 30, 2021, there were 5,035,000 stock options, 8,882,500 RSUs, 25,277,188 warrants and 12,862,618 options outstanding.

Share Liquidity Risk

Shareholders of the Company may be unable to sell significant quantities of the Company’s shares into the public trading markets without a significant reduction in the price of their shares, if any at all. The majority of the Company’s shares are held with institutional holders, which means that there is a usually low trading volume. The Company’s market maker has the role of ensuring there is a buyer/seller if liquidity is too low. The Company may need to take action to continue to meet the listing requirements of the TSX-V, ASX and QTCQB or achieve listing on any other public listing exchange.

Dividends

The Company currently does not pay dividends. Payment of dividends on the Company’s shares is within the discretion of the Company’s board and will depend upon the Company’s future earnings, its capital requirements, financial condition, and other relevant factors. The Company does not currently intend to declare any dividends for the foreseeable future.

RISK FACTORS RELATING TO THE COMPANY’S PROPERTY INTERESTS

Title Risk

Macarthur cannot guarantee that one or more of its tenements within the projects will not be challenged. Macarthur may not be able to ensure that it has obtained a secure claim to individual mineral properties or exploration rights and as a result the Company’s ability to develop the projects may be constrained. Macarthur may not have conducted surveys of all of the claims in which it holds direct or indirect interests. A successful challenge could result in Macarthur being unable to operate on all or part of its tenements which could, in turn, affect the development of the projects.

In addition, Macarthur’s interests in the projects are subject to various conditions, obligations and regulations imposed by the Western Australian and Government Department of Mines, Industry, Regulation and Safety. If the necessary approvals are refused, Macarthur Minerals will suffer a loss of the opportunity to undertake further exploration, or development, of the tenement. Macarthur currently knows of no reason to believe that current applications will not be approved, granted or renewed.

Page 18 of 24

Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Macarthur Minerals Ltd

Risks and Uncertainties (Cont’d)

Lack of funding to satisfy minimum expenditure obligations in respect of any tenements, contractual expenditure obligations (any option, joint venture or farm in agreements the Company may enter into), may result in forfeiture of its tenements or termination of t such agreements. The Company may also be unable to meet its share of costs incurred under any Tenement Acquisition Agreements and the Company may have the tenement interests subject to such agreements reduced as a result or even face termination of such agreements. In order to secure ownership of these properties, additional financing will be required. Failure of the Company to make the requisite payments in the prescribed time periods will result in the Company losing its entire interest in the subject property and the Company will no longer be able to conduct certain aspects of its business as described in this MD&A.

The Company requires land access in order to perform exploration and development activities, which can be affected by land ownership and require related compensation arrangements with landowners or occupiers.

Where possible the Company will work with tenement and landowners to obtain required rights of access but unless such rights are obtained, or if there is a dispute, the Company’s operations may be adversely affected or delayed.

Macarthur’s project areas may contain sites of cultural significance, which would need to be avoided when carrying out field programs and potential project development.

Environmental Factors and Protection Requirements

The Company is currently engaged in exploration and evaluation activities with limited environmental impact and actively engages with government departments to ensure open communication and accurate assessment of environmental approvals. All phases of the Company’s operations are subject to environmental regulation in the jurisdictions in which it operates. Environmental legislation is evolving in a manner which requires stricter standards and enforcement, increased fines and penalties for non-compliance, more stringent environmental assessments of proposed projects and a heightened degree of responsibility for companies and their officers, directors and employees.

There is no assurance that future changes in environmental regulation, if any, will not adversely affect the Company’s operations. There are no assurance that regulatory and environmental approvals will be obtained on a timely basis or at all. The cost of compliance with changes in governmental regulations has the potential to reduce the profitability of operations or to preclude entirely the economic development of a property.

Environmental hazards may exist on the properties which are unknown to the Company at present which have been caused by previous or existing owners or operators of the properties. Limited environmental incidents may be covered under existing insurance policies. Environmental assessments of proposed projects carry a heightened degree of responsibility for companies and directors, officers and employees.

Risk related to Infrastructure and Development

There are numerous activities that need to be completed in order to successfully commence production of minerals from the projects, including, without limitation, negotiating final terms of export capacity, negotiating rail and road haulage contracts, optimizing the mine plan, locating an adequate supply of fresh and saline water (for mineral processing and dust suppression), acquisition of the right to establish a rail siding, negotiating contracts for the supply of power, for the sale of minerals and for shipping, updating, renewing and obtaining, as required, all necessary permits including, without limitation, mining and environmental permits, local government road haulage approvals and handling any other infrastructure issues.

There is no certainty that the Company will be able to successfully negotiate these contracts, put these matters in place and secure these necessary resources. Most of these activities require significant lead times and the Company will be required to manage and advance these activities concurrently in order to commence production.

It is not unusual in developing a resources project to experience unexpected problems and delays in infrastructure delivery and project development. A failure or delay in the completion of any one of these activities may delay production, possibly indefinitely, and will have a material adverse effect on the Company's business, prospects, financial performance and future results of operations.

Page 19 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Risks and Uncertainties (Cont’d)

Estimates of Mineral Reserves and Resources – Lake Giles Iron Ore Projects

The Company has estimated Inferred and Indicated Mineral Resources for the Ularring Hematite Project and Measured, Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources for the Moonshine Magnetite Project. The Mineral Resources are estimates only and are based on interpretations, knowledge, experience and industry practice which may change when new techniques or information becomes available. No assurances can be given that an Ore Reserve can be delineated which is based on economic conditions at the time. Applicants should be aware that inclusion of material in a Mineral Resource estimate does not require a conclusion that material may be economically extracted at the tonnages indicated, or at all. Mineralisation only qualifies to be categorised as an Ore Reserve once it has been demonstrated to be economically recoverable and appropriate modifying factors applied to the Mineral Resource estimates. Estimates that are valid when made may change significantly when new information becomes available. In addition, Iron Ore price fluctuations, as well as increased production costs or reduced throughput and/or recovery rates, may render reserves and resources uneconomic and so may materially affect the estimates.

Risk of Reliance on and Relevance of Project Studies – Lake Giles Iron Ore Projects

The Company’s Project Studies are evaluations of potential development of a project at a given time taking many factors into account. No assurance can be given that the process, methodology or plan of development included in a Project Study will be progressed and included in further studies. Project Studies are based on existing resource estimates and market conditions and consequently, market fluctuations, varied logistics or production costs or recovery rates may render the results of existing Project Studies uneconomic and may ultimately result in a future study being very different.

The Company’s ability to rely on results from Project Studies would be affected due to the time-based nature of the studies which may adversely affect the Company as it may need to repeat certain aspects of the Project Studies with new results and current market conditions.

Risk of Restrictive Access to the Projects

Macarthur’s projects are located in areas which can be difficult to access at times. During this period, costs associated with the Company carrying on its business may significantly increase and exceed the amount allocated in the Company’s budget, and in certain circumstances may prevent the Company from being able to conduct its drilling or significant operations on the relevant lands.

In addition, natural events, such as cyclones, floods, and fire, which are beyond the control of Macarthur, could prevent access to its tenements or offices or otherwise affect the Company’s ability to undertake planned exploration or evaluation or development (and potentially production) and, as a result, could have a material adverse effect on the Company.

Current COVID-19 travel and regional access related restrictions could have the potential to impede access to the Projects from time to time.

Risk of Accuracy of Exploration Maps and Diagrams

Macarthur has commissioned and produced numerous diagrams and maps to help identify and describe the tenements and the targets sought on those tenements. Maps and diagrams should only be considered an indication of the current intention in relation to targets and potential areas for exploration and drilling, which may change.

RISK FACTORS RELATING TO MINING GENERALLY

Mineral Exploration and Evaluation Risk

The projects are in the exploration and evaluation stage. Evaluation of the Company’s properties will only proceed upon obtaining satisfactory exploration results. Mineral exploration and evaluation involve a high degree of risk and few properties which are explored are ultimately developed into producing mines.

There is no assurance that mineral exploration and evaluation activities will result in the discovery and development of a body of commercial minerals on any of the Company’s properties. Several years may pass between the discovery of a deposit and its exploitation. Most exploration projects do not result in the discovery of commercially mineralized deposits.

Page 20 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Risks and Uncertainties (Cont’d)

Operating Hazards and Risks

Mineral exploration involves many risks, which even a combination of experience, knowledge and careful evaluation may not be able to overcome. The operations in which the Company has a direct or indirect interest will be subject to all the hazards and risks normally incidental to exploration, evaluation, development and production of resources, any of which could result in work stoppages and damage to persons or property or the environment and possible legal liability for any and all damage. Fires, power outages, labor disruptions, flooding, explosions, cave-ins, landslides and the inability to obtain suitable or adequate machinery, equipment or labor are some of the risks involved in the operation of mines and the conduct of exploration programs.

The mining industry is subject to occupational health and safety laws and regulations which change from time to time and may result in increased compliance costs or the potential for liability and even personal liability for management and directors. It is Macarthur Minerals’ intention to mitigate this risk by operating to the highest occupational health and safety standards.

Although the Company will, when appropriate, secure liability insurance in an amount which it considers adequate, the nature of these risks is such that liabilities might exceed policy limits, the liability and hazards might not be insurable, or the Company might elect not to insure itself against such liabilities due to high premium costs or other reasons, in which event the Company could incur significant costs that could have a material adverse effect upon its financial condition.

Risk of Availability of Labour

Macarthur will require skilled labour workers and professionals in order to operate its activities. Industrial disruptions, work stoppages and accidents in the course of the Company’s operations could result in losses and delays, which may adversely affect profitability.

The Company may experience a skills shortage. Due to the high demand for skilled and unskilled labour, there is a growing expectation of higher wages. Macarthur strives to employ the best people however this can come at a high price or may delay operations should it not be able to attain and retain those people.

RISK FACTORS RELATING TO GOVERNMENT

Risk of Increased Government Policy and Imposition of Tax

Changes in relevant taxation, interest rates, other legal, legislative and administrative regimes, and government policies in Australia, may have an adverse effect on the operations and financial performance of Macarthur Minerals and, ultimately, the market price of its securities.

In addition to the normal level of income tax imposed on all industries, Macarthur Minerals may be required to pay government royalties, indirect taxes, GST and other imposts which generally relate to revenue or cash flows. Industry profitability can be affected by changes in government taxation policies.

Risk of Greater Governmental Regulation

Exploration, evaluation, development and operations on the Company’s properties are affected to varying degrees by government regulations relating to such matters as: (i) environmental protection, health, safety and labor; (ii) mining law reform; (iii) restrictions on production, price controls, and tax increases; (iv) maintenance of claims; (v) tenure; and (vi) access to and use of property. There is no assurance that future changes in such regulations, if any, will not adversely affect the Company’s operations. Changes in such regulations could result in additional expenses and capital expenditures, availability of capital, competition, reserve uncertainty, potential conflicts of interest, title risks, dilution, and restrictions and delays in operations, the extent of which cannot be predicted.

Failure to obtain licenses and permits may adversely affect the Company’s business as the Company would be unable to legally conduct its intended exploration or future development work, which may result in it losing its interest in the subject property.

As the Company’s projects advance to the development stage, those operations will also be subject to various laws and regulations concerning development, production, taxes, labor standards, environmental protection, mine safety and other matters. In addition, new laws or regulations, governing operations and activities of mining companies could have a material adverse impact on any project in the mine development stage that the Company may possess.

Page 21 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Risks and Uncertainties (Cont’d)

RISK FACTORS RELATING TO THE COMPANY’S LEGAL OBLIGATIONS

Contractual risk

Macarthur Minerals is a party to various contracts. Whilst Macarthur Minerals will have various contractual rights in the event of non-compliance by a contracting party, no assurance can be given that all contracts to which Macarthur Minerals is a party will be fully performed by all contracting parties. Additionally, no assurance can be given that if a contracting party does not comply with any contractual provisions, Macarthur Minerals will be successful in enforcing compliance and recovering any loss in full.

Litigation Risk

All industries, including the mining industry, are subject to legal claims that are with and without merit.

The Company is currently involved in legal proceedings. It’s unlikely that the final outcome of these proceedings will have a material and adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition or results of operations; however, defence and settlement costs can be substantial, even for claims that are without merit.

Due to the inherent uncertainty of the litigation process and dealings with regulatory bodies, there is no assurance that any legal or regulatory proceeding will be resolved in a manner that will not have a material and adverse effect on the Company’s future cash flow, results of operations or financial condition.

The Company maintains Directors and Officers Liability insurance. The Company has provided an indemnity for each director and officer to the maximum extent permitted by law, against any liability for legal costs incurred in respect of liability incurred by them, as or by virtue of their holding office as and acting in the capacity of, an officer of the Company, except where the liability arises out of conduct involving lack of good faith or in breach of the law.

Jurisdiction Risk

All of the Company’s assets are presently located in Australia and the United States and the Company may contract with international parties from time to time. It may be difficult or impossible to enforce judgments obtained in overseas courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the securities laws of those countries.

Accounting Policies

Accounting policies, including new accounting standards and interpretations, followed by the Company are set out in Note 3 to the Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended June 30, 2021.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of the financial report in conformity with IFRS requires that management make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in the financial report and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and best available current information, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

The estimates and judgements that affect the application of the Company’s accounting policies and disclosures and have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses are discussed below.

(i) Share-based payment transactions

The Company measures the costs of equity-settled transactions with directors, officers, employees and consultants by reference to the fair values of the equity instrument. The fair value of equity-settled transactions is determined using the Black-Scholes options-pricing model as measured on the grant date. This model involves the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected price volatility of the Company’s common shares, the expected life of the options, and the estimated forfeiture rate for market based vesting conditions.

Page 22 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Critical Accounting Estimates (Cont’d)

(ii) Deferred tax assets

The Company considers whether the realization of deferred tax assets is probable in determining whether or not to recognize these deferred tax assets, as set out in Note 6 in the Audited Annual Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2021.

(iii) Going concern

As set out in Note 2(b) in the Audited Annual Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2021, the Financial Report has been prepared on a going concern basis.

Financial Instruments

The Company’s principal financial instruments are comprised of cash, short term deposits and payables which approximate their fair market value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The main risks arising from the Company’s financial instruments are credit risk, interest rate risk and foreign currency risk. Refer to the Risks and Uncertainties section above and Note 12 to the Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended June 30, 2021.

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Although the Company is listed on the TSX-V, it maintains a set of disclosure controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in filings is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Canadian Securities Administrators’ rules and forms. The Company’s CEO and CFO have designed the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures or caused them to be designed under their supervision to provide reasonable assurance that material information relating to the Company was made known to them and reported as required.

The Company’s CEO and CFO oversee on an annual basis the evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures and as at March 31, 2021 concluded that they are effective and provide reasonable assurance that material information relating to the Company was made known to them and reported as required.

Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting (“ICFR”)

Although the Company is listed on the TSX-V, ASX and OTCQB, the CEO and CFO are responsible for the design of ICFR, or for causing them to be designed under their supervision for evaluating the effectiveness of such internal controls to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation and fair presentation of external financial statements in accordance with IFRS. Regardless of how well an internal control system is designed and operated, it can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that it will prevent or detect all misstatements resulting from error or fraud due to the inherent limitations of any internal control system.

The CEO and CFO have overseen the evaluation of the design and effectiveness of the Company’s ICFR based on the framework established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and concluded that the Company’s ICFR was effective as of June 30, 2021.

There were no significant changes that occurred during the period ended June 30, 2021 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s ICFR.

The Company has not in any way limited the design of the ICFR and there were no material weaknesses related to its design as at June 30, 2021.

The CEO and the CFO oversee all material transactions and related accounting records. The Audit Committee of the Company, with management, reviews the financial statements of the Company, on a quarterly and annual basis. The external auditor reviews on a quarterly basis and audits bi-annually and annually the Company’s financial statements and disclosures.

Page 23 of 24

Macarthur Minerals Ltd Management’s Discussion and Analysis For the period end June 30, 2021

TSX-V: MMS, ASX: MIO, OTCQB:MMSDF

Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting (“ICFR”) (Cont’d)

While management and the board of directors of the Company work to mitigate the risk of a material misstatement in the Company's financial reporting, the Company's control system, no matter how well designed or implemented, can only provide reasonable, but not absolute, assurance of detecting, preventing and deterring errors and fraud.

Outstanding Share Data as of August 31, 2021:

Authorized and issued share capital:

Class Par Value Authorized Common shares Issued
(No par value)
Common No par value Unlimited 141,099,535

As at August 31, 2021, there were 5,035,000 stock options, 8,882,500 RSUs, 24,791,788 warrants and 12,862,618 options outstanding.

Other Information

Additional disclosures pertaining to the Company, including its most recent financial statements, management information circular, material change reports, press releases and other information, are available on the SEDAR website at www.sedar.com or on the Company’s website at www.macarthurminerals.com. Readers are urged to review these materials, including the technical reports filed with respect to the Company's mineral properties.

Qualified Person’s Statement

Mr Andrew Hawker, BSc. Geol, MAIG, is a member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists is a consultant geologist to Macarthur and is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101. Mr Hawker has reviewed and approved the technical information in relation to the Ularring Hematite and Moonshine Magnetite Iron Ore Projects, Western Australian Gold Projects, Western Australian Lithium Projects, Treppo Grande Iron Ore Project, Nickel and Cobalt Projects and Nevada Brine Lithium Project (excluding any corporate matters) contained in this MD&A and has consented to the public filing of the MD&A.

By order of the Board

Cameron McCall ” “ Andrew Suckling” Cameron McCall Andrew Suckling Chairman Independent Director

Page 24 of 24