U. S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC  20549

FORM 10-Q

x
QUARTERLY REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2010

OR

¨
TRANSITION REPORT UNDER SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from _______ to _______

Commission file number 000-14319

STANDARD GOLD, INC.
(Exact Name of Small Business Issuer as Specified in its Charter)

COLORADO
 
84-0991764
(State or Other Jurisdiction of
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
Incorporation or Organization)
   

900 IDS CENTER, 80 SOUTH EIGHTH STREET, MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA 55402-8773
 (Address of Principal Executive Offices)

612.349.5277
(Issuer’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)

(Former Name, Former Address and Former Fiscal Year, If Changed Since Last Report)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant: (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the issuer was required to file such reports) and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (Section 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes ¨      No o

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer ¨      Accelerated filer ¨      Non-accelerated filer ¨      Smaller reporting company x
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes ¨ No x

As of November 12, 2010, there were 25,067,572 shares of the Registrant’s common stock, par value $.001, outstanding.

 
 

 

STANDARD GOLD, INC.
FORM 10-Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SEPTEMBER 30, 2010

       
Page
 
           
PART I
 
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
     
           
Item 1.
 
Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
   
4
 
             
   
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets -
       
   
As of September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009
   
4
 
             
   
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations -
       
   
For the three months and nine months ended
       
   
 September 30, 2010 and 2009
   
5
 
             
   
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows -
       
   
For the nine months ended
       
   
September 30, 2010 and 2009
   
6
 
             
   
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
   
7
 
             
Item 2.
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of
       
   
Financial Condition and Results of Operations
   
19
 
             
Item 4T.
 
Controls and Procedures
   
23
 
             
PART II
 
OTHER INFORMATION
       
             
Item 1.
 
Legal Proceedings
   
25
 
             
Item 1A.
 
Risk Factors
   
25
 
             
Item 2.
 
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
   
25
 
             
Item 3.
 
Defaults Upon Senior Securities
   
25
 
             
Item 5.
 
Other Information
   
25
 
             
Item 6.
 
Exhibits
   
26
 
             
 
 
Signatures
   
27
 
 
 
2

 

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This Form 10-Q contains certain statements which are forward-looking in nature and are based on the current beliefs of our management as well as assumptions made by and information currently available to management, including statements related to the uncertainty of the quantity or quality of probable ore reserves, the fluctuations in the market price of such reserves, general trends in our operations or financial results, plans, expectations, estimates and beliefs. In addition, when used in this Form 10-Q, the words “may,” “could,” “should,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “predict” and similar expressions and their variants, as they relate to us or our management, may identify forward-looking statements. These statements reflect our judgment as of the date of this Form 10-Q with respect to future events, the outcome of which is subject to risks.  We have attempted to identify, in context, certain of the factors that we believe may cause actual future experience and results to differ materially from our current expectations, which may have a significant impact on our business, operating results, financial condition or your investment in our common stock, as described in Part I, Item 1A entitled “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009.

Readers are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results or outcomes may vary materially from those described herein.

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. However, your attention is directed to any further disclosures made on related subjects in our subsequent periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K.
 
 
3

 

STANDARD GOLD, INC.
(AN EXPLORATION STAGE COMPANY)
PART I – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
   
(unaudited)
   
(audited)
 
Assets
           
Current assets:
           
Cash
  $ 3,879     $ 450,887  
Prepaid expenses
    82,118        
Total current assets
    85,997       450,887  
                 
Property, plant and equipment, net
    1,469,572       1,536,408  
Mineral properties and development costs
    5,660,726       5,660,726  
Debt issuance costs, net
    15,873       23,392  
Total Assets
  $ 7,232,168     $ 7,671,413  
                 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Deficit
               
Current liabilities:
               
Short-term notes payable, net of discount
  $ 97,756     $  
Convertible note payable, current portion
    300,000       150,000  
Current portion of long-term notes payable (majority shareholder)
    1,050,000       600,000  
Due to Wits Basin Precious Minerals Inc (majority shareholder)
    150,750       51,921  
Accounts payable
    146,102       46,101  
Accrued interest
    464,728       71,630  
Accrued expenses
    465,573       383,315  
Total current liabilities
    2,674,909       1,302,967  
                 
Convertible note payable, long-term portion
    179,923       314,923  
Long-term note payable (majority shareholder)
    950,000       1,400,000  
Long-term note payable, net of discount
    6,303,700       6,189,768  
Total liabilities
    10,108,532       9,207,658  
                 
Shareholders’ deficit:
               
Preferred stock, $1 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized: none issued or outstanding
           
Common stock, $.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized: 23,490,649 and 22,840,649 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2010 and December 31, 2009, respectively
    23,491       22,841  
Additional paid-in capital
    6,450,311       5,141,714  
Accumulated deficit during exploration stage
    (9,350,166 )     (6,700,800 )
Total shareholders’ deficit
    (2,876,364 )     (1,536,245 )
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Deficit
  $ 7,232,168     $ 7,671,413  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
4

 

STANDARD GOLD, INC.
(AN EXPLORATION STAGE COMPANY)

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(unaudited)

                           
September 28,
2004
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine months ended
   
(inception)
 
   
September 30 ,
   
September 30 ,
   
to Sept. 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
 
Revenues
  $     $     $     $     $  
                                         
Operating expenses:
                                       
General and administrative
    498,195       17,381       1,714,524       53,901       2,316,590  
Exploration expenses
    135,473       18,667       293,156       61,664       5,763,287  
Depreciation and amortization
    21,754       26,431       66,836       79,293       280,017  
Loss on disposal of assets
                            12,362  
Total operating expenses
    655,422       62,479       2,074,516       194,858       8,372,256  
Loss from operations
    (655,422 )     (62,479 )     (2,074,516 )     (194,858 )     (8,372,256 )
                                         
Other income (expense):
                                       
Other income
                295             1,691  
Interest expense
    (156,859 )     (116,169 )     (461,213 )     (355,517 )     (1,171,581 )
Foreign currency gain (loss)
    (115,817 )     (429,921 )     (113,932 )     (777,242 )     191,980  
Total other income (expense)
    (272,676 )     (546,090 )     (574,850 )     (1,132,759 )     (977,910 )
Loss from operations before income taxes
    (928,098 )     (608,569 )     (2,649,366 )     (1,327,617 )     (9,350,166 )
                                         
Income tax provision
                             
Net loss
  $ (928,098 )   $ (608,569 )   $ (2,649,366 )   $ (1,327,617 )   $ (9,350,166 )
                                         
Basic and diluted net loss per common share
  $ (0.04 )   $ (0.03 )   $ (0.11 )   $ (0.07 )        
                                         
Basic and diluted weighted average common shares outstanding
    23,249,345       18,558,927       23,053,430       18,519,642          

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
5

 

STANDARD GOLD, INC.
(AN EXPLORATION STAGE COMPANY)

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(unaudited)

   
Nine months ended
September 30,
   
September 28,
2004
(inception) to
Sept. 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
 
OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
                 
Net loss
  $   (2,649,366 )   $   (1,327,617 )   $ (9,350,166 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash flows used in operating activities:
                       
Depreciation and amortization
    66,836       79,293       280,017  
Amortization of imputed interest and original issue discounts on debt
    20,677       286,753       614,545  
Amortization of prepaid consulting fees related to issuance of common stock
    225,000             225,000  
Amortization of debt issuance costs
    7,519             10,026  
Compensation expense related to issuance of common stock and stock option grants
    822,326             822,326  
Issuance of common stock for services
    154,000             154,000  
Loss (gain) on foreign currency
    113,932       777,242       (191,980 )
Loss on disposal of miscellaneous assets
                12,362  
Issuance of equity securities by Wits Basin (majority shareholder) for exploration expenses
                334,950  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
                       
Prepaid expenses
    (7,118 )           (7,118 )
Accounts payable
    100,001       96,221       146,102  
Accrued expenses
    475,356       3,535       1,074,391  
Net cash used in operating activities
    (670,837 )     (84,573 )     (5,875,545 )
                         
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
                       
Purchases of equipment
                (143,628 )
Net cash used in investing activities
                (143,628 )
                         
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
                       
Payments on long-term debt
          (250,000 )     (491,106 )
Cash proceeds from issuance of common stock, net
    25,000       231,672       1,071,672  
Cash proceeds from short-term debt
    100,000             100,000  
Advances from (payments to) Wits Basin (majority shareholder)
    98,829       128,028       5,368,385  
Debt issuance costs
          (25,899 )     (25,899 )
Net cash provided by financing activities
    223,829       83,801       6,023,052  
                         
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
    (447,008 )     (772 )     3,879  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period
    450,887       1,655        
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
  $ 3,879     $ 883     $ 3,879  
                         
Supplemental cash flow information:
                       
Cash paid for interest
  $ 29,918     $     $ 30,751  
Cash paid for income taxes
  $     $     $  
Issuance of common stock for prepaid consulting fees
  $ 300,000     $     $ 300 000  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 
6

 

STANDARD GOLD, INC.
(AN EXPLORATION STAGE COMPANY)
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
September 30, 2010
(unaudited)

NOTE 1 - NATURE OF BUSINESS

Standard Gold, Inc. (formerly known as Princeton Acquisitions, Inc.) was incorporated in the State of Colorado on July 10, 1985, as a blind pool or blank check company. From the date of our incorporation until September 29, 2009, our business model was to complete a merger with, or acquisition of a private company, partnership or sole proprietorship without any particular industry or geographical location preference.

On September 11, 2009, we entered into a share exchange agreement with Hunter Bates Mining Corporation, a Minnesota corporation (“Hunter Bates”) and certain of its shareholders, in which its shareholders would exchange all of their capital securities into similar capital securities of ours. Hunter Bates was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of Wits Basin Precious Minerals Inc., a Minnesota corporation and public reporting company quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board under the symbol “WITM” (“Wits Basin”) to acquire the prior producing gold mine properties located in Central City, Colorado, known as the “Bates-Hunter Mine.” We consummated the share exchange with all of the Hunter Bates shareholders on September 29, 2009 (the “Share Exchange”).

Accordingly, the Share Exchange represented a change in control and Hunter Bates became a wholly owned subsidiary of ours. For accounting purposes, the Share Exchange has been accounted for as a reverse acquisition with Hunter Bates as the accounting acquirer (legal acquiree) and Standard Gold as the accounting acquiree (legal acquirer).  Upon effectiveness of the Share Exchange, we adopted the business model of Hunter Bates and as such have become a stand-alone minerals exploration and development company with a focus on gold projects.

Throughout this 10-Q Report, Standard Gold, Inc., and our wholly owned subsidiary Hunter Bates and its wholly owned subsidiary Gregory Gold Producers, Inc., a Colorado corporation (“Gregory Gold”) will be referred collectively to as “we,” “us,” “our,” “Standard Gold” or the “Company.”

Line of Business

Hunter Bates is an exploration and development stage Minnesota corporation formed in April 2008.  It was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of Wits Basin to acquire the Bates-Hunter Mine property pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement dated September 20, 2006. On June 12, 2008, Hunter Bates completed the acquisition of the Bates-Hunter Mine, which included real property, mining claims, permits and equipment. The purchase was financed through a limited recourse promissory note of Hunter Bates payable to Mr. George Otten (on behalf of all of the Sellers) in the principal amount of Cdn$6,750,000 and Wits Basin issued 3,620,000 shares of its common stock.

When Wits Basin acquired the rights to purchase the Bates-Hunter Mine in January 2005, it also acquired exploration rights of the Bates-Hunter Mine properties. Wits Basin utilized Gregory Gold as an oversight management company for the exploration activities conducted at the Bates-Hunter Mine since that time. On September 3, 2009, prior to the Share Exchange, Wits Basin contributed all of its equity interest in Gregory Gold to Hunter Bates, thereby making Gregory Gold a wholly owned subsidiary of Hunter Bates. Gregory Gold holds minimal assets related to operating the water treatment plant and area maintenance used in the exploration activities of the Bates-Hunter Mine.
 
 
7

 
 
On September 7, 2010, we entered into an option agreement with US American Exploration Inc., which specifies terms and conditions by which we may acquire an interest in the Rex Gold Mine project (“Rex”) located in La Paz County, Arizona. In order for us to acquire an irrevocable ten percent (10%) joint venture interest, we paid an initial $100,000 non-refundable fee and must provide an additional $1,900,000 for expenditures that must begin within five months and be completed within 23 months.

As of the date of this Report, our only assets are the Bates-Hunter Mine property and minimal assets held in Gregory Gold and we do not claim to have any mineral reserves at the Bates-Hunter Mine. Furthermore, we possess only a few pieces of equipment and employ insufficient numbers of personnel necessary to actually explore and/or mine for minerals; we therefore remain substantially dependent on third party contractors to perform such operations. No further exploration activities will be conducted at the Bates-Hunter Mine until such time as funds become available. In addition to the Bates-Hunter Mine, we also seek to find, develop, produce and sell other gold mine assets such as the Rex project described above.

NOTE 2 – SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by us in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“US GAAP”), for interim financial information pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by US GAAP for complete financial statements. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited financial statements and notes thereto included in our Form 10-K filed March 26, 2010.  In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included.  Operating results for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year as a whole.

Foreign Currencies

All dollar amounts expressed in this Report are in US Dollars (“$”), unless specifically noted, as certain transactions are denominated in the Canadian Dollar (“Cdn$”).

NOTE 3 – EARNINGS (LOSS) PER COMMON SHARE

Basic net loss per common share is computed by dividing net loss applicable to common shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the periods presented.  Diluted net loss per common share is determined using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the periods presented, adjusted for the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents, consisting of shares that might be issued upon exercise of options, warrants and conversion of convertible debt.  In periods where losses are reported, the weighted average number of common shares outstanding excludes common stock equivalents, because their inclusion would be anti-dilutive.
 
8

 
The following table provides a reconciliation of the numerators and denominators used in calculating basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share are as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended 
September 30,
   
Nine months ended
 September 30,
 
   
2010
   
2009
   
2010
   
2009
 
Basic earnings (loss) per share calculation:
                       
Net income (loss) to common shareholders
  $ (928,098 )   $ (608,569 )   $ (2,649,366 )   $ (1,327,617 )
Weighted average of common shares outstanding
    23,249,345       18,558,927       23,053,430       18,519,642  
                                 
Basic net earnings (loss) per share
  $ (0.04 )   $ (0.03 )   $ (0.11 )   $ (0.07 )
                                 
Diluted earnings (loss) per share calculation:
                               
Net income (loss) per common shareholders
  $ (928,098 )   $ (608,569 )   $ (2,649,366 )   $ (1,327,617 )
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding
    23,249,345       18,558,927       23,053,430       18,519,642  
Options, convertible debentures and warrants
    (1 )     (2 )     (1 )     (2 )
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding
    23,249,345       18,558,927       23,053,430       18,519,642  
                                 
Diluted net earnings (loss) per share
  $ (0.04 )   $ (0.03 )   $ (0.11 )   $ (0.07 )

(1)
As of September 30, 2010, we had (i) 4,230,000 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding warrants and (ii) 2,400,000 shares of common stock upon the exercise of outstanding options. These 6,630,000 shares, which would be reduced by applying the treasury stock method, were excluded from diluted weighted average outstanding shares amount for computing the net loss per common share, because the net effect would be antidilutive for each of the periods presented.
(2)
As of September 30, 2009, we had (i) 2,500,000 shares of common stock issuable upon the exercise of outstanding warrants. These 2,500,000 shares, which would be reduced by applying the treasury stock method, were excluded from diluted weighted average outstanding shares amount for computing the net loss per common share, because the net effect would be antidilutive for each of the periods presented.

NOTE 4 – COMPANY’S CONTINUED EXISTENCE

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with US GAAP, assuming we will continue as a going concern, which contemplates the realization of assets and satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, we incurred losses from operations of $2,649,366. At September 30, 2010, we had an accumulated deficit of $9,350,166 and a working capital deficit of $2,588,912. Our ability to continue as a going concern is dependent on our ability to raise the required additional capital or debt financing to meet short and long-term operating requirements. We believe that future private placements of equity capital and debt financing are needed to fund our long-term operating requirements. We may also encounter business endeavors that require significant cash commitments or unanticipated problems or expenses that could result in a requirement for additional cash.  If we raise additional funds through the issuance of equity or convertible debt securities, the percentage ownership of our current shareholders could be reduced, and such securities might have rights, preferences or privileges senior to our common stock. Additional financing may not be available upon acceptable terms, or at all. If adequate funds are not available or are not available on acceptable terms, we may not be able to take advantage of prospective business endeavors or opportunities, which could significantly and materially restrict our operations. We are continuing to pursue external financing alternatives to improve our working capital position. If we are unable to obtain the necessary capital, we may have to cease operations.
 
 
9

 
 
NOTE 5 – PREPAID EXPENSES

Prepaid expenses consist of two components: prepaid consulting fees and other prepaid expenses. The prepaid consulting fees include the calculated fair value of 300,000 shares of common stock issued ($300,000) to a consultant on May 21, 2010, for various services that we do not have the internal infrastructure to perform, with the amortization periods coinciding with terms of the agreement. The other prepaid expenses contain amounts we have prepaid for general and administrative purposes and are being expensed as utilized. Components of prepaid expenses are as follows:
 
   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Prepaid consulting fees
  $ 75,000     $  
Other prepaid expenses
    7,118        
    $ 82,118     $  
 
NOTE 6 – PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Prior to our acquisition of the Bates-Hunter Mine in June 2008, Gregory Gold made purchases of various pieces of equipment necessary to operate and de-water the Bates-Hunter Mine property. After the acquisition, we now have additional assets of land, buildings and other additional equipment all related to the Bates-Hunter Mine. Depreciation on our assets is calculated on a straight-line method over the estimated useful life, presently ranging from two to twenty years.  Components of our property, plant and equipment are as follows:
 
   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Land
  $ 329,280     $ 329,280  
Buildings
    1,206,954       1,206,954  
Equipment
    199,694       199,694  
Less accumulated depreciation
    (266,356 )     (199,520 )
    $ 1,469,572     $ 1,536,408  
 
NOTE 7 – MINERAL PROPERTIES AND DEVELOPMENT COSTS

As of September 30, 2010, we own one wholly owned mining property known as the Bates-Hunter Mine, which was purchased in June 2008. Since the purchase, we have not commenced any mining operations due to the lack of funding and therefore, we have not recorded any amortization expense nor have we determined that any impairment has occurred for the period ended September 30, 2010. Components of our mineral properties and development costs are as follows:
 
Bates-Hunter Mine
 
September 30,
2010
   
December 31,
2009
 
Mining claims (1)
  $ 5,657,383     $ 5,657,383  
Mining permits (2)
    3,343       3,343  
    $ 5,660,726     $ 5,660,726  
 
(1)
We acquired some surface rights and some mining rights to 22 parcels located in Gilpin County, Colorado.
(2)
We acquired various mining, special use, water discharge, stormwater and drilling permits, all of which require renewal at various times.

On September 7, 2010, when we entered into the option agreement to acquire an interest in the Rex project, we made an initial $100,000 non-refundable payment. Since this is a non-refundable fee and we are further required to provide an additional $1,900,000 for expenditures (that must begin within five months), we expensed the entire initial $100,000 payment.

 
10

 
 
NOTE 8 – DEBT ISSUANCE COSTS

We recorded debt issuance costs with respect to legal services incurred relating to the Cabo convertible promissory note issued in 2009 (see Note 10 – Convertible Note Payable). Debt issuance costs are being amortized on a straight-line basis (which approximates the effective interest method) over the term of the corresponding debt.

The following table summarizes the amortization of debt issuance costs:
 
   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2010
   
2009
 
Debt issuance costs, net, beginning of period
  $ 23,392     $  
Add: additional debt issuance costs
          25,899  
Less: amortization of debt issuance costs
    (7,519 )     (2,507 )
Debt issuance costs, net, end of period
  $ 15,873     $ 23,392  
 
Future annual amortization is scheduled to be as follows for the years ending December 31:
 
2010 — Remaining
  $ 2,507  
2011
    10,026  
2012
    3,340  
Total
  $ 15,873  
 
NOTE 9 – SHORT-TERM NOTES PAYABLE

The following table summarizes the Company’s short-term notes payable issued in 2010:

   
September 30,
 
   
2010
 
Promissory note of $25,000 net of remaining unamortized discount of $2,244 related to the fair value ($7,921) of a 50,000 share warrant issued in connection with the debt; interest rate of 18%; accrued interest of $530 at September 30, 2010; due October 17, 2010; currently past due, original terms apply in the default period.
  $ 22,756  
         
Promissory note of $25,000 issued to our President, Stephen Flechner, utilized for the Rex; interest rate of 5%; accrued interest of $79 at September 30, 2010; due November 30, 2010. (1)
    25,000  
         
Promissory note of $50,000 utilized for the Rex; interest rate of 5%; accrued interest of $158 at September 30, 2010; due November 30, 2010. (1)
    50,000  
Totals
  $ 97,756  

(1)  In connection with these notes and to induce the note holders into these agreements, the Company granted each note holder to share in an aggregate one percent (1%) net smelter return royalty (“NSR”). Until such time as the Company were to sell its majority interest in the Rex project yet to be acquired, the note holders would receive a 0.375% and 0.625%, as defined in the agreement, respectively. See Note 15 – Contingencies and Commitments for further details.

 
11

 
 
Summary

The following table summarizes the short-term notes payable balances:

Balance at December 31, 2009
  $  
Add: gross proceeds received in 2010
    100,000  
Less: value assigned to warrant issued with $25,000 note
    (7,921 )
Add: amortization of original issue discount
    5,677  
Balance at September 30, 2010
  $ 97,756  

The weighted average interest rate on short-term notes payable at September 30, 2010 was 8.25%.

NOTE 10 – CONVERTIBLE NOTE PAYABLE

On April 28, 2009, Wits Basin entered into a convertible debenture with Cabo Drilling (America) Inc., a Washington corporation formerly known as Advanced Drilling, Inc (“Cabo”), pursuant to which Wits Basin issued to Cabo a 12% Convertible Debenture dated April 27, 2009 (the “Debenture”), in the principal amount of $511,590. As this obligation stems from work completed on and around the Bates-Hunter Mine property and is secured by our property (as referenced below), for accounting purposes it is reflected on our financial statements. The Debenture has a maturity date of April 27, 2012, with originally scheduled payments of $150,000 due each anniversary with a final payment due of the remaining balance on the third anniversary. The Debenture is convertible at the option of the holder at any time into shares of Wits Basin common stock at a conversion price of $0.20 per share, subject to standard anti-dilutive adjustments. Any future conversion of this Debenture into Wits Basin common stock would be recorded as a reclass to “Due to Wits Basin” on our books. The Debenture was issued to Cabo in satisfaction of an outstanding payable totaling $451,590 for drilling services performed relating to the Bates-Hunter Mine property. The difference between the face amount of the Debenture and the outstanding payable totaling $60,000 is treated as a discount to the debt and is being amortized to interest expense over the 3-year term of the Debenture.

On April 22, 2010, we made a $15,000 penalty payment to Cabo in order to receive an extension on the first $150,000 anniversary payment that was due April 27, 2010. On September 24, 2010, Wits Basin executed a modification agreement to extend the Debenture (the “Debenture Modification Agreement”). The Debenture Modification Agreement extends the April 27, 2010 payment date and combines it with the April 27, 2011 payment, thereby requiring a single payment of $300,000 plus all accrued interest on April 27, 2011; failure to make such payment shall constitute a default under the terms of the Debenture. The Debenture Modification Agreement further requires that Wits Basin provide 1,500,000 of its owned shares of Standard Gold common stock to be placed with an escrow agent as further collateral pursuant to the Debenture Modification Agreement.

Hunter Bates has guaranteed Wits Basin’s obligations under the Debenture, and further entered into that certain Deed of Trust to Public Trustee, Mortgage, Security Agreement, Assignment of Production and Proceeds, Financing Statement and Fixture Filing to provide security for the obligations under the Debenture.
 
 
12

 
 
Summary

The following table summarizes the convertible note balance:

Balance at December 31, 2008
  $  
Add: conversion of accrued expenses and additional interest charge
    451,590  
Add: amortization of debt discount
    13,333  
Balance at December 31, 2009
    464,923  
Add: amortization of debt discount
    15,000  
Less: principal payments
     
Balance at September 30, 2010
    479,923  
Less: current portion
    (300,000 )
Long-term portion
  $ 179,923  

As of September 30, 2010, the outstanding principal balance is $511,590 with accrued interest of $92,661.

NOTE 11 – LONG-TERM NOTES PAYABLE

Long-term limited recourse promissory note – Otten

On June 12, 2008, Hunter Bates completed the acquisition of the Bates-Hunter Mine properties, which included land, buildings, equipment, mining claims and permits, financed through a limited recourse promissory note of Hunter Bates payable to Mr. George Otten (on behalf of all of the Sellers) in the principal amount of Cdn$6,750,000 (the “Otten Note”). The Otten Note required an initial payment of Cdn$250,000 due by December 1, 2008, which was ultimately paid on November 13, 2009. As of September 30, 2010, the outstanding principal balance is Cdn$6,500,000 (approximately $6,303,700 US).

Commencing on April 1, 2010, a quarterly installment of accrued interest plus a Production Revenue Payment (as defined below) became payable. The Otten Note was interest-free until January 1, 2010, and from such date the interest is at a rate of 6% per annum, with a maturity date of December 31, 2015.  The Otten Note balance reflected a discount (valued at $580,534 and fully amortized to interest expense as of December 31, 2009) relating to the recourse note being non-interest bearing until the first payment in 2010. Hunter Bates’ payment obligations under the Otten Note is secured by a deed of trust relating to all of the property acquired in favor of Gilpin County Public Trustee for the benefit of Mr. Otten. Hunter Bates is required to make quarterly principal repayments (each a “Production Revenue Payment”) beginning April 1, 2010, which payment(s) shall equal:

 
1.
For all calendar quarters March 31, 2010 to December 31, 2012, 75% of the profit realized by Hunter Bates for the immediately preceding calendar quarter, and
 
2.
For calendar quarters ending after December 31, 2012, the greater of (a) 75% of the profit realized by Hunter Bates for the relevant calendar quarter or (b) Cdn$300,000.

Furthermore, if Hunter Bates has not been obligated to make a Production Revenue Payment by December 31, 2012, then beginning on April 1, 2013 and continuing on each payment date until Hunter Bates has become obligated to make a Production Revenue Payment, Hunter Bates shall make principal repayments in the amount of Cdn$550,000. Upon Hunter Bates becoming obligated to make a Production Revenue Payment at anytime after April 1, 2013, Hunter Bates shall make Production Revenue Payments in accordance with #2 above.

The Company has not made the quarterly interest payments as of the date of this report, which were due on April 1, 2010, July 1, 2010 and October 1, 2010, for an aggregate amount due of $281,548. On May 17, 2010, we made a $10,000 penalty payment for an extension on the April 1, 2010 interest payment, deferring it until August 1, 2010. The Company currently is in discussions with Mr. Otten regarding these past due interest payments.

 
13

 
 
The following table summarizes the Otten long-term limited recourse promissory note in US Dollars:

Balance at December 31, 2008
  $   5,139,637  
Add: unrealized foreign currency loss
    916,170  
Add: amortization of original issue discount
    375,067  
Less: principal payments
    (241,106 )
Balance at December 31, 2009
    6,189,768  
Add: unrealized foreign currency loss
    113,932  
Less: principal payments
     
Balance at September 30, 2010
  $ 6,303,700  

Long-term related party promissory note – Wits Basin

In August 2009, Hunter Bates issued a note payable in favor of Wits Basin (at which time held 100% of the equity interest in Hunter Bates) in the principal amount of $2,500,000 (the “Wits Basin Note”) in consideration of various start-up and developments costs and expenses incurred by Wits Basin on its behalf while Hunter Bates and Gregory Gold were consolidated, wholly owned subsidiaries of Wits Basin. The aggregate amount of start-up and developments costs and expenses incurred by Wits Basin prior to the Share Exchange was $6,367,872 with the remaining balance of $3,867,872 being credited to additional paid in capital. The Wits Basin Note is due on December 31, 2013, and calls for quarterly principal and interest payments of $150,000 starting on March 31, 2010. Interest accrues at a rate of 6% compounded per annum.  In the event Hunter Bates generates net revenues in excess of $2,000,000 during any fiscal year or completes one or more financings in the aggregate amount of $10,000,000, Hunter Bates’ payment obligations under the Wits Basin Note will, at the option of Wits Basin, accelerate and become due and payable.

On September 29, 2009, Hunter Bates satisfied an aggregate of $500,000 under the Wits Basin Note through (i) the issuance of 500,000 shares of its common stock and warrants to purchase an additional 500,000 shares at an exercise price of $1.00 (sold at $0.50 per unit with a total value of $250,000) to a creditor of Wits Basin in satisfaction of certain of Wits Basin’s obligation to such creditor and (ii) the payment to Wits Basin of $250,000.  For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, interest expense of $89,752 has been charged to operations and is included in accrued interest.

The following table summarizes the Wits Basin long-term note payable:

Balance at December 31, 2008
  $    
Add: issuance of note
    2,500,000  
Less: principal payments
    (500,000 )
Balance at December 31, 2009
    2,000,000  
Less: principal payments
     
Balance at September 30, 2010
    2,000,000  
Less: current portion
    (1,050,000 )
Long-term portion
  $ 950,000  

Current maturity summary of all long-term debt

For all long-term debt, the scheduled annual maturities for the years ending December 31 are as follows:

2010 — Remaining
  $ 600,000  
2011
    600,000  
2012
    600,000  
2013
    2,333,560  
2014
    2,133,560  
Thereafter
    2,036,580  
Total
  $ 8,303,700  
 
 
14

 
 
NOTE 12 - SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Common Stock Issuances

The Company had been in discussions with a consulting entity that was to provide corporate finance and merger and acquisition consulting services pursuant to the terms of a six-month consulting agreement, which became effective May 28, 2010. We terminated the agreement prior to its completion and issued 100,000 shares of our unregistered common stock (originally valued at $154,000) to the consultant during the quarter ended September 30, 2010. The entire $154,000 has been recorded as expense as of September 30, 2010, to coincide with the termination of the agreement.

Effective September 14, 2010, the Company appointed Alfred A. Rapetti and Manfred E. Birnbaum to serve as members of our board of directors and in consideration of their serving on the board and their future service, they were each issued 100,000 shares (valued at $51,000 each) of our un-registered common stock.

Option Grants

As of September 30, 2010, 3,000,000 shares of our common stock are available to be granted under our 2010 Plan, of which 600,000 are available for future issuances.

On April 1, 2010, the Company entered into a Stock Option Agreement with Stephen E. Flechner, the Company’s President, whereby the Company issued Mr. Flechner a ten-year option to purchase 800,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.90 per share, which was the closing price of the Company’s common stock on April 1, 2010.  The option is subject to the terms of the 2010 Plan and vests in three equal annual installments, with the first tranche vesting on April 1, 2010.  The vesting of the option shall accelerate (i) at such time the closing price of the Company’s common stock (as quoted on the OTCBB or an exchange) remains at or above $3.00 per share for 30 consecutive days, (ii) upon Mr. Flechner’s death, (iii) upon the occurrence of a Change of Control (as defined in the Employment Agreement or (iv) upon the termination of employment for any reason other than Cause.

On April 1, 2010, the Company also entered into a Stock Option Agreement with its Chief Executive Officer, Stephen D. King, whereby the Company issued Mr. King a ten-year option to purchase 800,000 shares of the Company’s common stock at an exercise price of $0.90 per share, which was the closing price of the Company’s common stock on April 1, 2010.  The option is subject to the terms of the 2010 Plan and vests in three equal annual installments with the first tranche vesting on April 1, 2010.  The vesting of the option shall accelerate (i) upon Mr. King’s death or (ii) upon the occurrence of a Change of Control (as defined in the option agreement).  Immediately upon grant, Mr. King transferred his rights to the Stock Option Agreement to his spouse, Deborah King.

On September 14, 2010, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized stock option agreements with Messrs. Rapetti and Birnbaum as new members of the Company’s board, whereby they were each granted a ten-year stock option to purchase up to 400,000 shares of the Company’s common stock, with such grants becoming effective October 14, 2010, at an exercise price of $0.59 per share.

The Company uses the Black-Scholes pricing model as a method for determining the estimated fair value for employee stock awards. Compensation expense for employee stock awards is recognized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period of service awards and for performance based awards, the Company recognizes the expense when the performance condition is probable of being met.
 
 
15

 
 
We recorded $120,326 and $0 related to stock option compensation expense for the three months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively, and $720,326 and $0 related to stock option compensation expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively. All stock compensation expense is included in general and administrative expense. There was no tax benefit from recording this non-cash expense due to our income tax valuation allowance and due to a portion of the options being incentive stock options. The compensation expense had a $0.01 impact on the loss per share for the three months and a $0.03 for the nine months ended September 30, 2010, respectively. As of September 30, 2010, approximately $1,103,674 of total unrecognized compensation expense is expected to be recognized over a period of approximately 24 months.

The following table summarizes information about the Company’s stock options:

   
Number of
Options
   
Weighted
Average
Exercise
 Price
 
Options outstanding - December 31, 2009
        $  
                 
Granted
    2,400,000       0.75  
Canceled or expired
           
Exercised
           
Options outstanding - September 30, 2010
    2,400,000     $ 0.75  
                 
Options exercisable - September 30, 2010
    533,334     $ 0.90  
                 
Weighted average fair value of options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2010
          $ 0.75  
Weighted average fair value of options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2009
          $  

Stock Warrants

We issued 50,000 purchase warrants during the three months ended September 30, 2010, as additional consideration attached to a short-term promissory note payable. The following table summarizes information about the Company’s stock purchase warrants outstanding at September 30, 2010:

   
Number
   
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   
Range
of
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted
Remaining
Contractual
Life
 
Outstanding at December 31, 2009
    4,130,000     $ 0.64     $   0.01 – 1.00      
                           
Granted
    100,000       0.75       0.50 – 1.00      
Cancelled or expired
                     
Exercised
                     
Outstanding at September 30, 2010
    4,230,000     $ 0.64     $ 0.01 – 1.00  
4.0 years
 
                             
Warrants exercisable at September 30, 2010
    4,230,000     $ 0.64     $ 0.01 – 1.00      
 
 
16

 
 
NOTE 13 – EFFECT OF RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-06, “Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements.” This update requires additional disclosure within the roll forward of activity for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis, including transfers of assets and liabilities between Level 1 and Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy and the separate presentation of purchases, sales, issuances and settlements of assets and liabilities within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. In addition, the update requires enhanced disclosures of the valuation techniques and inputs used in the fair value measurements within Levels 2 and 3. The new disclosure requirements are effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for the disclosure of purchases, sales, issuances and settlements of Level 3 measurements. Those disclosures are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. As ASU 2010-06 only requires enhanced disclosures, the Company does not expect that the adoption of this update will have a material effect on its financial statements.

NOTE 14 – RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

In addition to the long-term note payable discussed in Note 11, Wits Basin provides certain general and administrative services (primarily management salary and office rent) for the Company. Amounts charged to operations amounted to $39,100 and $10,569 for the three months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Amounts charged to operations amounted to $84,300 and $32,151 for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

In order for the Company to enter into the Rex project option agreement, which required an initial $100,000 non-refundable fee to be made, we entered into three short-term promissory notes, of which two required a personal guarantee and the issuance of NSR’s. Stephen D. King, our Chief Executive Officer provided personal guaranties for the repayment of these two notes.  Mr. King has personally guaranteed the notes by pledge of 100,000 shares of stock owned by him in LKA International Inc (LKAI on OTCBB).  See Note 15 – Contingencies and Commitments for further details.

NOTE 15 – CONTINGENCIES AND COMMITMENTS

On September 7, 2010, when we entered into the Rex option agreement, we obtained funds required to make the initial $100,000 non-refundable fee by issuing three short-term promissory notes. Two of the note holders required a personal guarantee and the issuance of net smelter return royalties (NSR). Mr. King has personally guaranteed two of the notes by pledge of 100,000 shares of stock owned by him in LKA International Inc. and the Company has provided a two percent (2%) NSR to be distributed between Mr. King (who is to receive one percent of the NSR) and the two note holders sharing in the other one percent (one note holder receives 0.375% for a $25,000 loan and the other receives 0.625% for a $50,000 loan).

The NSR means the value for marketable minerals ultimately produced from the Rex project and received by the Company less the following deductions: (a) all charges made by a smelter, mill or other purchaser including, without limiting the generality of the foregoing, treatment, sampling and other charges, penalties and all other deductions; (b) all costs of transportation and insurance of material from Rex project to the purchaser or otherwise, as directed;  (c) all excise severance, sales and/or production taxes applicable for royalty payment; and (d) any other customary out-of-pocket costs of forward sales of Rex project mineral production. Unless and until the Company sells the majority of its interest in the Rex project, the NSR recipients shall not be deemed to exceed two percent (2%) of the actual cash flow earned by the Company from the Rex project.

No accrual for this contingency has been recorded at September 30, 2010, because the outcome of the Rex project cannot be determined at this time.

NOTE 16 – SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

During October 2010, two warrant holders exercised certain warrants and received 1,476,923 shares of our common stock by surrendering 1,500,000 of their available warrants to pay for the exercise, via the cashless exercise provision.

 
17

 
 
On October 29, 2010, we received $32,000 in proceeds from the issuance of an unsecured short-term promissory note. The note has a maturity date of December 30, 2011, bears interest at 12% and we issued a warrant to purchase up to 64,000 shares of our common stock with an exercise price of $0.50 per share.
 
 
18

 

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations

The following management discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations should be read in connection with the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes thereto included elsewhere in this Report and the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009.

OVERVIEW

Standard Gold, Inc. (formerly known as Princeton Acquisitions, Inc.) was incorporated in the State of Colorado on July 10, 1985, as a blind pool or blank check company. From the date of our incorporation until September 29, 2009, our business model was to complete a merger with, or acquisition of a private company, partnership or sole proprietorship without any particular industry or geographical location preference.

On September 11, 2009, we entered into a share exchange agreement with Hunter Bates Mining Corporation, a Minnesota corporation (“Hunter Bates”) and certain of its shareholders, in which its shareholders would exchange all of their capital securities into similar capital securities of ours. Hunter Bates was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of Wits Basin Precious Minerals Inc. (a Minnesota corporation and public reporting company quoted on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board under the symbol “WITM”) (“Wits Basin”) to acquire the prior producing gold mine properties located in Central City, Colorado, known as the “Bates-Hunter Mine.” We consummated the share exchange with all of the Hunter Bates shareholders on September 29, 2009 (the “Share Exchange”).

Accordingly, the Share Exchange represented a change in control and Hunter Bates became a wholly owned subsidiary of ours. For accounting purposes, the Share Exchange has been accounted for as a reverse acquisition with Hunter Bates as the accounting acquirer (legal acquiree) and Standard Gold as the accounting acquiree (legal acquirer).  Upon effectiveness of the Share Exchange, we adopted the business model of Hunter Bates and as such have become a stand-alone minerals exploration and development company with a focus on gold projects.

Hunter Bates is an exploration and development stage Minnesota corporation formed in April 2008.  It was formed as a wholly owned subsidiary of Wits Basin to acquire the Bates-Hunter Mine property pursuant to an Asset Purchase Agreement dated September 20, 2006. On June 12, 2008, Hunter Bates completed the acquisition of the Bates-Hunter Mine, which included real property, mining claims, permits and equipment. The purchase was financed through a limited recourse promissory note of Hunter Bates payable to Mr. George Otten (on behalf of all of the Sellers) in the principal amount of Cdn$6,750,000 and Wits Basin issued 3,620,000 shares of its common stock.

When Wits Basin acquired the rights to purchase the Bates-Hunter Mine in January 2005, it also acquired exploration rights of the Bates-Hunter Mine properties. Wits Basin utilized Gregory Gold as an oversight management company for the exploration activities conducted at the Bates-Hunter Mine since that time. On September 3, 2009, prior to the Share Exchange, Wits Basin contributed all of its equity interest in Gregory Gold to Hunter Bates, thereby making Gregory Gold a wholly owned subsidiary of Hunter Bates. Gregory Gold holds minimal assets related to operating the water treatment plant and area maintenance used in the exploration activities of the Bates-Hunter Mine.

The Bates-Hunter Mine property, which was a prior producing gold mine when operations ceased during the 1930’s, consists of land, buildings, equipment, mining claims and permits.  The Bates-Hunter Mine is located about 35 miles west of Denver, Colorado and is located within the city limits of Central City.

On September 7, 2010, we entered into an option agreement with US American Exploration Inc., which specifies terms and conditions by which we may acquire an interest in the Rex Gold Mine project (“Rex”) located in La Paz County, Arizona. In order for us to acquire an irrevocable ten percent (10%) joint venture interest, we paid an initial $100,000 non-refundable fee and must provide an additional $1,900,000 for expenditures that must begin within five months and be completed within 23 months.

 
19

 
 
As of the date of this 10-Q Report, our only assets are the Bates-Hunter Mine property and minimal assets held in Gregory Gold and we do not claim to have any mineral reserves at the Bates-Hunter Mine. Furthermore, we possess only a few pieces of equipment and employ insufficient numbers of personnel necessary to actually explore and/or mine for minerals; we therefore remain substantially dependent on third party contractors to perform such operations.

We previously hired two Canadian drilling companies who completed approximately 12,000 feet of surface drilling, which provided detailed data, which has been added to our existing 3-D map of the region. With the surface drilling program completed in August 2008, no further exploration activities have been conducted at the Bates-Hunter Mine; only property and safekeeping processes are being done until such time as sufficient funds have been acquired to resume exploration activities.

In addition to the Bates-Hunter Mine, we are actively seeking to discover other gold mine properties like the Rex project, both domestic and international.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2010 COMPARED TO THE THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2009.

Revenues

We had no revenues from operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009. Furthermore, we do not anticipate having any significant future revenues until an economic mineral deposit is discovered or unless we make further acquisitions or complete other mergers or joint ventures with business models that produce such results.

Operating Expenses

General and administrative expenses were $498,195 for the three months ended September 30, 2010 as compared to $17,381 for the same period in 2009. General and administrative expenses were $1,714,524 for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 as compared to $53,901 for the same period in 2009. The significant increase in 2010 primarily represents our engaging of consultants and hiring a president to focus on our gold projects. Of the $1,714,524 in 2010, we recorded $822,326 which relates to stock based compensation expenses, approximately $674,000 in consulting expenses, which included services provided by market makers, the services of Stephen E. Flechner (who we hired to be our President effective April 1, 2010) and the management fees charged to us by Wits Basin. We anticipate that our operating expenses will continue to increase for the remainder of the year as we continue to build the infrastructure of the Company in order to proceed with exploration development of the Bates-Hunter project and due diligence followed by potential acquisitions of other gold projects, such as the Rex project.

Exploration expenses relate to the cash expenditures being reported on the work-in-process for the Bates-Hunter project and our due diligence of other potential projects. Exploration expenses were $135,473 for the three months ended September 30, 2010 as compared to $18,667 for the same period in 2009. Exploration expenses were $293,156 for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 as compared to $61,664 for the same period in 2009. Part of this increase is due to the $100,000 option expense for the Rex project. Other exploration expenses relate to the cash expenditures being reported for our maintenance work at the Bates-Hunter project (the last drilling accomplished at the Bates-Hunter was in August of 2008) and for due diligence on other gold projects. In 2009, the Company was only maintaining the Bates-Hunter project, while in 2010, we continued to maintain the property and continue to investigate other possible gold projects. Depending upon our success in obtaining dedicated funds and the timeframe for receipt of such funds, we anticipate the rate of spending for fiscal 2010 exploration expenses to be greater than 2009 expenses.

 
20

 
 
Depreciation and amortization expenses were $21,754 for the three months ended September 30, 2010 as compared to $26,431 for the same period in 2009.  Depreciation and amortization expenses were $66,836 for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 as compared to $79,293 for the same period in 2009, which represents depreciation of fixed assets for the Bates-Hunter Mine itself and the equipment purchased for work that was being performed there. We anticipate that our depreciation expense will remain at or near current levels over the remainder of the fiscal year.

Other Income and Expenses

Interest Expense
Interest expense for the three months ended September 30, 2010 was $156,859 compared to $116,169 for the same period in 2009.  Interest expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2010 was $461,213 compared to $355,517 for the same period in 2009. The 2010 amount relates to the interest due on our notes payable: (i) the Otten Note (the limited recourse promissory note for Cdn$6,750,000), which was interest-free until January 1, 2010, and from such date accrues interest at a rate of 6% per annum, (ii) in April 2009, we entered into a 12% Convertible Debenture with Cabo Drilling (America) Inc., in the principal amount of $511,590, (iii) in August 2009, Hunter Bates issued a note payable in favor of Wits Basin (at which time held 100% of the equity interest in Hunter Bates) in the principal amount of $2,500,000 in consideration of various start-up and developments costs and expenses incurred by Wits Basin on its behalf while Hunter Bates and Gregory Gold were consolidated, wholly owned subsidiaries of Wits Basin, and (iv) three short-term notes payable we entered into during the quarter ended September 30, 2010, for an aggregate of $100,000 in funds. The 2009 amount was the amortization of imputed interest discount on the Otten Note. We anticipate that interest expense will continue at this level for the remainder of 2010.

Foreign Currency
With the consummation of the Bates-Hunter Mine acquisition in June 2008, we are recording direct non-cash foreign currency exchange gains and losses due to our dealings with the limited recourse promissory note, which is payable in Canadian Dollars.  We recorded a loss of $115,817 for the three months ended September 30, 2010, compared to a loss of $429,921 for the three months ended September 30, 2009 due to the exchange rate between the US Dollar and the Canadian Dollar. For the nine months ended September 30, 2010, we recorded a loss of $113,932 as compared to $777,242 loss for the same period in 2009. We will continue to see gains and losses for foreign currency in future periods as long as the Otten Note is outstanding.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Liquidity is a measure of an entity’s ability to secure enough cash to meet its contractual and operating needs as they arise. We have funded our operations and satisfied our capital requirements through private placements of our equities and advances from Wits Basin. We do not anticipate generating sufficient net positive cash flows from our operations to fund the next twelve months. We had a working capital deficit of $2,588,912 at September 30, 2010. Cash and cash equivalents were $3,879 at September 30, 2010, representing a decrease of $447,008 from the cash and cash equivalents of $450,887 at December 31, 2009.

We have engaged a number of consultants to assist us in public relations and marketing and hired an individual to become our President effective April 1, 2010, and as such, our cash reserves will not be sufficient to meet our operational needs and thus, we need to raise additional capital to pay for our operational expenses. Our basic operational expenses are estimated at approximately $100,000 per month, we continue to have debt service commitments totaling approximately $1,432,000 for the next twelve months (some of which are currently past due) and we are required to provide $1,900,000 for exploration activities at the Rex project. If we are not able to raise additional working capital, whether from affiliated entities or third parties, we may have to cutback on operational expenditures or cease operations altogether.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, we had net cash used in operating activities of $670,837 and $84,573, respectively.  During 2010, the significant increase over 2009 is due to our engagement of a number of consultants, both for marketing and for strategic planning and our due diligence on a number of other gold properties including $100,000 spent on the Rex option. During 2009, we mainly performed maintenance activities only at the Bates-Hunter Mine site.

 
21

 
 
For the nine months ended September 30, 2010 and 2009, we had net cash provided by financing activities of $223,829 and $83,801, respectively. During 2010: (i) we issued 50,000 shares of our unregistered common stock through a private placement unit offering at $0.50 per unit, each unit consisting of one share of our common stock, par value $0.001 per share, and one five-year warrant to purchase a share of common stock at an exercise price of $1.00 per share, resulting in net cash proceeds of $25,000, (ii) we entered into three short-term notes payable and received an aggregate of $100,000 in funds, and (iii) Wits Basin provided us operating funds of $98,829 in 2010. During 2009: (i) immediately prior to the completion of the Share Exchange (on September 29, 2009) Hunter Bates completed a private placement offering of 1,000,000 Units, each Unit consisting of one share of Hunter Bates common stock and one warrant to purchase a share of Hunter Bates common stock at an exercise price of $1.00, at a per Unit price of $0.50 for a total value of $500,000, in which we received cash proceeds of $250,000 net of closing costs totaling $18,328 and a credited payment of $250,000 against the Wits Basin Note, and (ii) Wits Basin provided us operating funds of $128,028.

The following table summarizes our debt as of September 30, 2010:

Outstanding
Amount
   
Interest
Rate
   
Unamortized
Discounts
   
Accrued
Interest
 
Maturity
Date
 
Type
$ 22,756       18 %   $ 2,244     $ 530  
October 17, 2010
 
Conventional (1)
$ 25,000       5 %   $     $ 79  
November 30, 2010
 
Conventional
$ 50,000       5 %   $     $ 158  
November 30, 2010
 
Conventional
$ 479,923       12 %   $ 31,667     $ 92,661  
April 27, 2012
 
Convertible (2)
$ 2,000,000 (3)     6 %   $     $ 89,752  
December 31, 2013
 
Conventional
$ 6,303,700 (4)     6 %   $     $ 281,548  
December 31, 2015
 
Conventional

 
(1)
Promissory note was issued with a warrant.
 
(2)
Cabo Debenture convertible at $0.20 per share into shares of Wits Basin common stock.
 
(3)
Hunter Bates issued a note payable in favor of Wits Basin, in the principal amount of $2,500,000 in consideration of various start-up and development costs and expenses incurred by Wits Basin on Hunter Bates’ behalf while it was a consolidated, wholly owned subsidiary of Wits Basin.
 
(4)
The limited recourse promissory note of Hunter Bates payable to Mr. Otten began accruing interest at a rate of 6% per annum on January 1, 2010, with quarterly interest only payments due beginning April 1, 2010.

Summary

Our existing sources of liquidity will not provide cash to fund operations and make the required payments on our debt service for the next twelve months.  Our ability to continue as a going concern is dependent entirely on raising funds through the sale of equity or debt, and/or from receiving funds from Wits Basin. Wits Basin is currently assisting us in our endeavors to raise working capital.  If we are unable to obtain the necessary capital, we may have to cease operations.

OFF BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

During the nine months ended September 30, 2010, we did not engage in any off balance sheet arrangements as defined in Item 303(a)(4) of Regulation S-K.

 
22

 

Item 4T.  Controls and Procedures

Under the supervision of, and the participation of, our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we have conducted an evaluation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of the end of the period covered by this Quarterly Report to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in Securities and Exchange Commission rules and forms, and is accumulated and communicated to our management as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as of September 30, 2010, because of the identification of the material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting described below. Notwithstanding the material weaknesses that existed as of September 30, 2010, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have each concluded that the consolidated financial statements included in this Quarterly Report present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company and its subsidiaries in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). We are currently taking steps to remediate such material weaknesses as described below.

Material Weaknesses in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

A material weakness is a control deficiency, or combination of control deficiencies, that results in more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected. In connection with the assessment, management identified the following control deficiencies, which were previously identified, that still represent material weaknesses at September 30, 2010:

 
·  
The Company, at times, enters into material transactions without timely obtaining the appropriate signed agreements, stock certificates and board approval prior to releasing cash funds called for by the transaction. There were no formal policy changes made in 2010 because no similar transactions were encountered during 2009. Management believes the approval process currently in place is sufficient to alleviate any misappropriation of funds and will change procedures if and when circumstances indicate they are needed.
 
·
Management did not design and maintain effective control relating to the quarter end closing and financial reporting process due to lack of evidence of review surrounding various account reconciliations and properly evidenced journal entries.  Due to the Company’s limited resources, the Company has insufficient personnel resources and technical accounting and reporting expertise to properly address all of the accounting matters inherent in the Company’s global financial transactions.  Numerous GAAP audit adjustments were made to the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2009. This material weakness was identified in 2007 and 2008, and has not been corrected at this time due to resource constraints. Additionally, the Company does not have a formal audit committee with a financial expert, and thus the Company lacks the board oversight role within the financial reporting process. Management continues to search for additional board members that are independent and can add financial expertise, in an effort to remediate part of this material weakness.
 
·
The Company’s small size and “one-person” office prohibits the segregation of duties and the timely review of financial data and banking information.  The Company has very limited review procedures in place.  This material weakness was not corrected during 2010.  Management plans to establish a more formal review process by the board members in an effort to reduce the risk of fraud and financial misstatements.

We are in the process of establishing certain steps in response to the identification of these material weaknesses that should result in certain changes in our internal control over financial reporting, but due to the Company’s limited funds and inability to add certain staff personnel, the changes may be limited and may also not be completely effective. There were no additional material weaknesses noted during the quarter ended September 30, 2010.

 
23

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

During the quarter ended September 30, 2010, there was no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 
24

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1.   Legal Proceedings

None.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

The most significant risk factors applicable to the Company are described in Part I Item 1A entitled “Risk Factors” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2009 (the “2009 Form 10-K”).  There have been no material changes to the risk factors previously disclosed in the 2009 Form 10-K.  The risks described in the 2009 Form 10-K are not the only risks facing the Company.  Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to management may materially adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition, and/or operating results.

Item 2.   Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

During the three months ended September 30, 2010, the Company issued (i) to a consultant 100,000 shares of the Company’s common stock and (ii) 100,000 shares to each of its new board members. For these issuances, the Company relied on the exemption from federal registration under Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, and/or Rule 506 promulgated thereunder. The Company relied on this exemption and/or the safe harbor rule thereunder based upon (i) the fact that the recipient has knowledge and experience in investing in securities such that it could evaluate merits and risks related to our securities; (ii) that no general solicitation of the securities was made by us; (iii) the securities issued were “restricted securities” as that term is defined under Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act and appropriate restrictive legends have been included on the certificates representing the securities.

Item 3.   Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 5.   Other Information

On September 14, 2010, the Company’s board approved an amendment of its 2010 Stock Incentive Plan to further establish methods that may be utilized to determine the fair value price of options granted, provided that, once an irrevocable election has been made to grant a certain number of options on a specific date at a minimum of 30 days in advance, then the price of said options granted will be priced by taking the average of the prior 30 days closing sale prices of the Company’s common stock.

 
25

 

Item 6.   Exhibits

Exhibit
 
Description
10.1
 
Option Agreement between the Company and US American Exploration Inc, dated September 7, 2010, (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on September 17, 2010).
10.2
 
Promissory Note of the Company, dated September 7, 2010, in the principal amount of $25,000 issued in favor of Stephen Flechner (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on September 17, 2010).
10.3
 
Promissory Note of the Company, dated September 7, 2010, in the principal amount of $50,000 issued in favor of Irwin Gross (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on September 17, 2010).
10.4
 
Guaranty & NSR of Stephen D. King, dated September 7, 2010, (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed on September 17, 2010).
10.5**
 
Standard Gold, Inc. 2010 Stock Incentive Plan (amended as of September 14, 2010).
31.1**
 
Certification of CEO pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2**
 
Certification of CFO pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1**
 
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.2**
  
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

** Filed herewith electronically

 
26

 

SIGNATURES

In accordance with the requirements of the Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 
Standard Gold, Inc.
   
Date:    November 15, 2010
 
   
 
By:
/s/ Stephen D. King
   
Stephen D. King
   
Chief Executive Officer
     
 
By: 
/s/ Mark D. Dacko
   
Mark D. Dacko
   
Chief Financial Officer
 
 
27

 
Standard Metals Processing (QB) (USOTC:SMPR)
Historical Stock Chart
From Jun 2024 to Jul 2024 Click Here for more Standard Metals Processing (QB) Charts.
Standard Metals Processing (QB) (USOTC:SMPR)
Historical Stock Chart
From Jul 2023 to Jul 2024 Click Here for more Standard Metals Processing (QB) Charts.