Verde Announces Plans for First Distribution of Gains and Restructure

Return Expected to Be a Minimum of C$10 Million to Shareholders for FY 2022 While Keeping a Minimum of C$30 Million in the Company, Restructure Expected to Increase Markets for Verde

 

Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Verde AgriTech Plc (TSX: “NPK”) (OTCQB: “AMHPF”) (“Verde” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the findings of the Independent Special Committee of the Board of Directors (the “Committee”) to re-domicile Verde to Singapore (the “Re-domiciliation”) to deliver commercial freedoms and benefits. The Committee believes the Re-domiciliation is in the best interests of Verde’s future commercial success, with access to new markets, while helping in the implementation of the Paid for Growth (“P4G”) strategy, a cornerstone program aimed at distributing gains to shareholders while maintaining Verde’s expansion without shareholder dilution.

The Committee was composed of Mr. Michael St Aldwyn (Verde’s Lead Independent Director), Mr. Renato Gomes and Mr. Paulo Sérgio Ribeiro Machado, see press release issued on 22 February, 2022.[1] Working alongside Verde’s management, the Committee determined that ongoing and expanding sales is expected to generate enough accumulated cashflow in the second half of 2022 to warrant returning gains to shareholders in the coming months.

By year end 2022, the Company expects to be able to return a minimum of C$10 million to shareholders while maintaining a minimum of C$30 million in cash and receivables.

For 2023, Verde expects to continue returning gains to shareholders while maintaining a minimum of C$30M in cash and receivables, in addition to fully self-funding Plant 3, without need for equity or debt financing.

In 2021, the Company had its second profitable year thanks to sales of 400,133 tonnes of Verde’s multinutrient potassium products, BAKS® and K Forte® sold internationally as Super Greensand® (the “Product”), as disclosed in the press release of March 22, 2021.[2] Verde’s latest 2022 guidance provides for sales of 1,000,000 tonnes of Product, with projected revenue of C$109.09 million, EBITDA of C$49.06 million and net earnings per share (“EPS”) of C$0.87, as detailed in the press release of May 03, 2022.[3]

The P4G strategy is not intended to conflict with Verde’s accumulated cashflow funded construction of Plant 3, which is planned for 2023 and is expected to add 10 million tonnes per year (“Mtpy”) production capacity.  Plant 3’s post-tax net present value is projected at US$2.91 billion (8% discount rate) with an internal rate of return of 427.17%, assuming a potash price at less than a third of current Potassium Chloride (“KCl”) prices and those adopted by Verde. Currently, Verde operates Plant 1 with a capacity of 0.6Mtpy, with Plant 2 on track for commissioning in Q3 2022, with an additional capacity of 2.4Mtpy.

 

Background to the Re-domiciliation

Verde is currently domiciled in the United Kingdom, a country with which it has no other business connection beyond its incorporation address and the relatively high costs of reporting and compliance under local regulations. Verde is also aiming at an increased access to a wider commodities market for its products. Furthermore, the United Kingdom bars companies from making any type of payment to shareholders while there are no distributable reserves available in the parent Company. The Re-domiciliation to Singapore will provide all the commercial advantages explained in the next section while also enabling the Verde group of companies (“Group”) to eventually execute its P4G through dividend, variable dividend, share buyback and other potential structures that will be further studied in the event that the Re-domiciliation is completed.

“Over 15 years, Verde has overcome many challenges to reach our current stage of production and profitability. We need to ensure that we are well placed to quickly access new markets and we also consider that the time is approaching for the Company to reward its shareholders, many of whom have unwaveringly supported the Company over many years. P4G will only be adopted without compromising Verde’s accelerated growth trajectory and without depleting a sizeable cash reserve”, affirmed Verde’s Founder, President & CEO Cristiano Veloso.

To implement the Re-domiciliation, Verde shareholders shares will be exchanged for shares in a new Singaporean company (“New Verde”) on a one-for-one basis. Following the share exchange, New Verde will become the sole parent company of the Group. There will be no changes to the respective shareholdings of each Verde shareholder. Verde’s listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange will be replaced with New Verde’s listing on the Toronto Stock Exchange, with no impact on Verde shareholders.

The Re-domiciliation will not impact the Group’s underlying assets or operations, strategy, or business plan.

 

About Singapore

Among the jurisdictions analysed by Verde, the Committee chose Singapore because of its advantages to the Company’s business activities and its Shareholders. Noticeably:

  • In 2022, Singapore is the number 1 country out of 177 in the Index of Economic Freedom, an annual index and ranking created in 1995 by conservative think-tank The Heritage Foundation and The Wall Street Journal to measure the degree of economic freedom in the world’s nations.
  • Since 2017 Singapore has held the 2nd position out of 190 countries in the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business Report, which reflects a productive regulatory environment for doing business.
  • In 2021, Singapore ranked 4th position out of 180 countries in the Corruption Perceptions Index, an index which ranks countries “by their perceived levels of public sector corruption, as determined by expert assessments and opinion surveys.” The index is published annually by the non-governmental organisation Transparency International since 1995.
  • Because of its streamlined regulatory environment, Singapore is a major global trading hub for commodities. In agriculture, three of the world’s largest commodity trading houses are headquartered in the country: Trafigura, Wilmar International and Olam International.
  • According to estimates, as the world’s largest importer of food, Asia is and will continue to be the growth engine for global agriculture. This growth is mainly driven by economies such as India and China.
  • Brazil and Singapore have a bilateral tax treaty, signed on May 07, 2018, which will ensure the most efficient flow of profits to the Company.

 

Implementation

The Re-domiciliation will be implemented by way of scheme of arrangement (the “Scheme“) sanctioned by the High Court of England and Wales (the “Court“) and will therefore be subject, amongst other things, to approval by Verde shareholders in Court convened general meeting (the “Scheme Meeting”) and sanction by the Court.

If Verde shareholders approve the Re-domicile proposals at the Scheme Meeting and the Scheme is subsequently sanctioned by the Court, it is currently envisaged that the Scheme would take effect in July 2022. Prior to the Scheme becoming effective, an application will be made to the Toronto Stock Exchange to de-list the ordinary shares of the Company and to list the new ordinary shares to be issued to Verde shareholders pursuant to the terms of the Scheme on the exchange. It is expected that the de-listing of the Company’s ordinary shares and the listing of New Verde’s ordinary shares will both take effect on the same day in July 2022.

The Company will provide Verde shareholders with a circular setting out a detailed timetable, information on the reasons for the Re-domiciliation and an explanation of the Scheme later this month, subject to receipt of the Court’s permission to convene the Scheme meeting. Verde shareholders are encouraged to read the circular once available, as it will contain important information in relation to the Re-domiciliation.

The Company will issue a further announcement with anticipated timings in due course.

 

About Verde AgriTech

Verde is an agricultural technology company that produces potash fertilizers. Our purpose is to improve the health of all people and the planet. Rooting our solutions in nature, we make agriculture healthier, more productive, and profitable.

Verde is a fully integrated Company:  it mines and processes its main feedstock from its 100% owned mineral properties, then sells and distributes the Product.

Verde’s focus on research and development has resulted in one patent and eight patents pending. Among its proprietary technologies are Cambridge Tech, 3D Alliance, MicroS Technology, N Keeper, and Bio Revolution.[4] Currently, the Company is fully licensed to produce up to 2.8 million tonnes per year of its multinutrient potassium fertilizers K Forte® and BAKS®, sold internationally as Super Greensand®.[5] By the end of 2022, it plans to become Brazil’s largest potash producer by capacity.[6] Verde has a combined measured and indicated mineral resource of 1.47 billion tonnes at 9.28% K2O and an inferred mineral resource of 1.85 billion tonnes at 8.60% K2O (using a 7.5% K2O cut-off grade).[7] This amounts to 295.70 million tonnes of potash in K2O. For context, in 2021 Brazil’s total consumption of potash in K2O was 7.92 million.[8]

Brazil ranks second in global potash demand and is its single largest importer, currently depending on external sources for over 96% of its potash needs. In 2021, potash accounted for approximately 2% of all Brazilian imports by dollar value.

 

Corporate Presentation

For further information on the Company, please view shareholders’ deck: https://verde.docsend.com/view/gha7v59kp6eemfaj

 

Investors Newsletter

Subscribe to receive the Company’s updates at:

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Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

All Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resources estimates reported by the Company were estimated in accordance with the Canadian National Instrument 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum Definition Standards (May 10, 2014). These standards differ significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

This document contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This information and these statements, referred to herein as “forward-looking statements” are made as of the date of this document. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect current estimates, predictions, expectations, or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to:

  1. the estimated amount and grade of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves;
  2. the PFS representing a viable development option for the Project;
  3. estimates of the capital costs of constructing mine facilities and bringing a mine into production, of sustaining capital and the duration of financing payback periods;
  4. the estimated amount of future production, both produced and sold; and,
  5. estimates of operating costs and total costs, net cash flow, net present value and economic returns from an operating mine.

Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “projects”, “estimates”, “envisages”, “assumes”, “intends”, “strategy”, “goals”, “objectives” or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements are based on Verde’s or its consultants’ current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by them and information currently available to them. The most significant assumptions are set forth above, but generally these assumptions include:

  1. the presence of and continuity of resources and reserves at the Project at estimated grades;
  2. the geotechnical and metallurgical characteristics of rock conforming to sampled results; including the quantities of water and the quality of the water that must be diverted or treated during mining operations;
  3. the capacities and durability of various machinery and equipment;
  4. the availability of personnel, machinery, and equipment at estimated prices and within the estimated delivery times;
  5. currency exchange rates;
  6. Super Greensand® and K Forte® sales prices, market size and exchange rate assumed;
  7. appropriate discount rates applied to the cash flows in the economic analysis;
  8. tax rates and royalty rates applicable to the proposed mining operation;
  9. the availability of acceptable financing under assumed structure and costs;
  10. anticipated mining losses and dilution;
  11. reasonable contingency requirements;
  12. success in realizing proposed operations;
  13. receipt of permits and other regulatory approvals on acceptable terms; and
  14. the fulfilment of environmental assessment commitments and arrangements with local communities.

Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. Many forward-looking statements are made assuming the correctness of other forward-looking statements, such as statements of net present value and internal rates of return, which are based on most of the other forward-looking statements and assumptions herein. The cost information is also prepared using current values, but the time for incurring the costs will be in the future and it is assumed costs will remain stable over the relevant period.

By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates assumptions and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur as forecast, but specifically include, without limitation: risks relating to variations in the mineral content within the material identified as Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves from that predicted; variations in rates of recovery and extraction; the geotechnical characteristics of the rock mined or through which infrastructure is built differing from that predicted, the quantity of water that will need to be diverted or treated during mining operations being different from what is expected to be encountered during mining operations or post closure, or the rate of flow of the water being different; developments in world metals markets; risks relating to fluctuations in the Brazilian Real relative to the Canadian dollar; increases in the estimated capital and operating costs or unanticipated costs; difficulties attracting the necessary work force; increases in financing costs or adverse changes to the terms of available financing, if any; tax rates or royalties being greater than assumed; changes in development or mining plans due to changes in logistical, technical or other factors; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; risks relating to receipt of regulatory approvals; delays in stakeholder negotiations; changes in regulations applying to the development, operation, and closure of mining operations from what currently exists; the effects of competition in the markets in which Verde operates; operational and infrastructure risks and the additional risks described in Verde’s Annual Information Form filed with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com) for the year ended December 31, 2021. Verde cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive.

When relying on our forward-looking statements to make decisions with respect to Verde, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Verde does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by Verde or on our behalf, except as required by law.

 

For additional information please contact:

Cristiano Veloso, Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Tel: +55 (31) 3245 0205; Email: investor@verde.ag

www.investor.verde.ag | www.supergreensand.com | www.verde.ag

 

[1] See press release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-announces-creation-of-independent-special-committee-of-the-board-of-directors/

[2] See press release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verdes-q4-sales-by-volume-grow-137-driving-2021-net-profit-growth-to-540/

[3] See press release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verdes-2022-guidance-and-two-year-outlook-revised-upwards/

[4] Learn more about our technologies: https://verde.docsend.com/view/yvthnpuv8jx6g4r9

[5] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/2-5-million-tonnes-per-year-potash-mining-concession-granted-to-verde/

[6] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-to-reach-3-million-tonnes-potash-production-capacity-in-2022/

[7] As per the National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects within Canada (“NI 43 -101”), filed on SEDAR in 2017. See the Pre-Feasibility Study at: https://investor.verde.ag/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/NI-43-101-Pre-Feasibility-Technical-Report-Cerrado-Verde-Project.pdf

[8] Union of the Agricultural Fertilizers and Correctives Industry, in the State of São Paulo (“SIACESP”, from Sindicato da Indústria de Fertilizantes e Corretivos Agropecuários, no Estado de São Paulo).

Verde Announces Pre-Feasibility Study

Plant 3’s 2023 construction to be fully funded from accumulated cashflow

Plant 3’s NPV of US$2.91 billion considering US$368.65 Brazil CFR long term potash prices

 

Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Verde AgriTech Plc (TSX: “NPK”) (OTCQB: “AMHPF”) (“Verde” or the “Company”) is pleased to disclose the conclusions of the Pre-Feasibility Study announced by the Company on March 01, 2021 (the “PFS”) for the Cerrado Verde Project (the “Project”), which supplants the Pre-Feasibility Study completed in December 2017 (“2017 PFS”).

Verde operates Plant 1 with a capacity of 0.6 million tonnes per year (“Mtpy”), Plant 2 is on track for commissioning in Q3 2022 with an additional capacity of 2.4Mtpy, and Plant 3 is expected to add 10Mtpy with construction planned for 2023.

Plant 3’s capex is estimated by the PFS at US$52.77 million. Plant 3’s post-tax net present value (“NPV”) is projected at US$2.91 billion (8% discount rate) with an internal rate of return (“IRR”) of 427.17%, assuming a potash price at less than a third of current Potassium Chloride (“KCl”) prices and those adopted by Verde. The capex for Plant 3 is expected to be covered by accumulated cashflow generated by sales up to Q2 2023, without need for equity or debt financing.

The Company’s Special Committee of the Board of Directors is concluding work on the Paid for Growth strategy, as announced in the press releases dated January 24, 2022, and February 22, 2022, respectively. The Committee’s findings and recommendations will soon be made publicly available, with the expectation that financing Plant 3 entirely from cashflow will not impact the return of gains to shareholders via dividends, buyback or a combination of both.

 

PFS Overview

The PFS contemplates three Product compositions:

  • The Product as a source of potash (“K2O”)
  • The Product as a source of potash and sulphur (“K2O+S”)
  • The Product as a source of potash, sulphur, zinc, boron, copper and manganese (“K2O+S+Micronutrients”)

The PFS contemplates three distinct production scenarios:

  • Annual production of 10Mtpy (“Plant 3 Scenario”), representing 13.51% of the Brazilian potash market demand projected for 2025.
  • Annual production of 23Mtpy (“23Mtpy Scenario”), representing 31.07% of the Brazilian potash market demand projected for 2025.
  • Annual production of 50Mtpy (“50Mtpy Scenario”), representing 54.97% of the Brazilian potash market demand projected for 2030.

The PFS relies on a KCl CFR Brazil port price of US$368.65 per tonne, as per the Market Study (the “Study”) as detailed in the press release of April 21, 2022. Currently, the KCl CFR Brazil port price is approximately US$1,125 per tonne. The Study underpinned the preparation of the PFS and it comprises information about the Product pricing and market share for each composition.

 

For further information on the Study, please see the press release issued on April 2022:
https://investor.verde.ag/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Verde-AgriTech-Press-Release-Market-Study-April-21-2022.pdf

Figures referenced in this news release can be viewed through the following link:
https://investor.verde.ag/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Figures-Press-Release-Pre-Feasibility-Results-Verde-AgriTech.pdf

 

PFS Highlights

Tables 01 through 03 show the summary of the financial-economic analysis for the three Scenarios.

 

Table 01: Summary of the financial-economic analysis for the Plant 3 Scenario

 

Plant 3 Scenario
Description Unit Value
Proven and probable reserves million tonnes 715.67
K2O grade % 10.01
Capex US$ million 52.77
Operating cost US$/tonne of Product 12.83
Sustaining capital US$/tonne of Product 0.50
 
Product composition Unit K2O K2O + S K2O + S + Micronutrients
Product Sale Price US$/tonne of Product 80.75 91.54 100.21
NPV after-tax US$ billion 2.91 3.41 3.97
NPV discount rate % 8.00 8.00 8.00
IRR after-tax % 427.17 482.93 560.86
Cumulative Cash Flow US$ billion 17.05 19.97 23.22

 

 

Table 02: Summary of the financial-economic analysis for the 23Mtpy Scenario

 

23Mtpy Scenario
Description Unit Value
Proven and probable reserves million tonnes 715.67
K2O grade % 10.01
Capex US$ million 129.84
Operating cost US$/tonne of Product 11.18
Sustaining capital US$/tonne of Product 0.50
 
Product composition Unit K2O K2O + S K2O + S + Micronutrients
Product sale price US$/tonne of Product 80.72 91.66 99.90
NPV after-tax US$ billion 5.81 6.84 7.95
NPV discount rate % 8.00 8.00 8.00
IRR after-tax % 387.11 437.95 505.02
Cumulative Cash Flow US$ billion 16.14 19.02 22.07

  

Table 03: Summary of the financial-economic analysis for the 50Mtpy Scenario

 

50Mtpy Scenario
Description Unit Value
Proven and probable reserves million tonnes 1,297.66
K2O grade % 9.19
Capex US$ million 553.99
Operating cost US$/tonne of Product 10.07
Sustaining capital US$/tonne of Product 0.50
 
Product composition Unit K2O K2O + S K2O + S + Micronutrients
Product Sale Price US$/tonne of Product 74.05 84.79 92.05
NPV after-tax US$ billion 9.34 11.50 13.54
NPV discount rate % 8.00 8.00 8.00
IRR after-tax % 167.86 196.19 227.08
Cumulative Cash Flow US$ billion 22.74 28.04 32.98

 

The mineral resource for the PFS remains unchanged from the 2017 PFS (effective date March 2014). The 2017 PFS mineral resource estimate was completed by Bradley Ackroyd (MAIG), an independent “Qualified Person,” in accordance with NI 43-101. The 2017 PFS mining plan was modified, considering the three independent production scenarios of and Product compositions.

 

The PFS is based on the following assumptions:

  • Contract mining.
  • A projected mine life of 72 years for the Plant 3 Scenario, 31 years for the 23Mtpy Scenario and 26 years for the 50Mtpy Scenario.
  • Expected mass recovery of 98%.
  • A 15% contingency applied to Capex.
  • US Dollar-Brazilian Real exchange rate of US$1 = R$5.30.
  • KCl long term price of US$368.65 per tonne CFR Brazil, which is the price reference for Product pricing in terms of K2O equivalent content.
  • S-bentonite long term price of US$410.40 per tonne, which is the price reference for Product pricing in terms of Sulphur content.
  • Zinc fertilizer (10%) long-term price of US$400.00 per tonne, which is the price reference for the Product pricing in terms of Zinc content.
  • Boron fertilizer (10%) long term price of US$1,130.00 per tonne, which is the price reference for the Product pricing in terms of Boron content.
  • Copper fertilizer (20%) long term price of US$2,700.00 per tonne, which is the price reference for the Product pricing in terms of Copper content.
  • Manganese fertilizer (10%) long term price of US$120.00 per tonne, which is the price reference for the Product pricing in terms of Manganese content.

 

Mineral Resource Estimate

A combined measured and indicated mineral resource of 1.47 billion tonnes at 9.28% K2O (using a 7.5% K2O cut-off) and an inferred mineral resource of 1.85 billion tonnes at 8.60% K2O (using a 7.5% K2O cut-off grade) are reported for the Project.

The Mineral Resources estimated by the PFS are:

 

Table 04: Mineral Resources Summary[1]

Total Volume (million tonnes) Average Grade (% K2O)
Measured Resource 83 10.13
Indicated Resource 1,389 9.23
Measured & Indicated 1,472 9.28
Inferred 1,850 8.60

 

Capital Cost Estimate

A summary of expected capital costs for each Scenario is presented as follows:

 

Table 07: Capital Costs Summary

Investments (US$ million)
 Description Plant 3 Scenario 23Mtpy Scenario 50Mtpy Scenario
Processing plant
Plants 29.38 70.60 111.17
Conveyor belt and loading wagons N/A N/A 28.49
Unloading of wagons N/A N/A 19.12
Processing subtotal 29.38 70.60 158.78
Roads improvement 10.57 30.88 6.80
Railway branch line[2] N/A N/A 283.02
Owner’s cost[3] 5.93 11.42 33.13
Subtotal 45.89 112.90 481.73
Contingencies (15%) 6.88 16.93 72.26
Total 52.77 129.84 553.99

 

Operating Cost Estimate

 

Table 08: Operating Costs Summary

Operating Costs (US$/tonne of Product)
Description Plant 3 Scenario 23Mtpy Scenario 50Mtpy Scenario
Mining[4] 4.55 4.24 4.48
Processing 2.07 2.38 2.01
General and Administrative 4.20 2.81 2.01
Others[5] 0.34 0.29 0.26
Contingency 1.67 1.46 1.31
Total 12.83 11.18 10.07

 

Sensitivity Analysis

Project economics are most sensitive to CAPEX and changes in the Product’s sales price. A sensitivity analysis of the Project’s NPV was carried out for each Scenario, with different sales prices for each Product composition. The charts can be seen in Figures 02 to 10, through the following link:

Figures 02 to 10: NPV sensitivity analysis charts

 

Technical Disclosure

The Pre-Feasibility Study has been prepared by the following Qualified Persons: Mr Bradley Ackroyd (MAIG (C.P.)) who is a principal consulting geologist with Andes Mining Services Ltd. and Dr Beck Nader. (D.Sc., M.Sc., FAIG), who is a principle at BNA Mining Solutions.

Dr Beck Nader. (D.Sc., M.Sc., FAIG), BNA Mining Solutions’ principal, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this news release. Dr Nader is a “Qualified Person” within the meaning of Canadian Securities Administrator’s National Instrument 43-101 (“NI 43-101”).

The Company expects to file a technical report prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 on SEDAR at http://www.sedar.com within 45 days of the date of this release.

 

About Verde AgriTech

Verde is an agricultural technology company that produces potash fertilizers. Our purpose is to improve the health of all people and the planet. Rooting our solutions in nature, we make agriculture healthier, more productive, and profitable.

Verde is a fully integrated Company: it mines and processes its main feedstock from its 100% owned mineral properties, then sells and distributes the Product.

Verde’s focus on research and development has resulted in one patent and eight patents pending. Among its proprietary technologies are Cambridge Tech, 3D Alliance, MicroS Technology, N Keeper, and Bio Revolution.[6] Currently, the Company is fully licensed to produce up to 2.8 million tonnes per year of its multinutrient potassium fertilizers K Forte® and BAKS®, sold internationally as Super Greensand®.[7] By the end of 2022, it plans to become Brazil’s largest potash producer by capacity.[8] Verde has a combined measured and indicated mineral resource of 1.47 billion tonnes at 9.28% K2O and an inferred mineral resource of 1.85 billion tonnes at 8.60% K2O (using a 7.5% K2O cut-off grade).[9] This amounts to 295.70 million tonnes of potash in K2O. For context, in 2021 Brazil’s total consumption of potash in K2O was 7.92 million[10].

Brazil ranks second in global potash demand and is its single largest importer, currently depending on external sources for over 96% of its potash needs. In 2021, potash accounted for approximately 2% of all Brazilian imports by dollar value.

 

Corporate Presentation

For further information on the Company, please view shareholders’ deck:

https://verde.docsend.com/view/2h4fmnwt9apfa42n

 

Investors Newsletter

Subscribe to receive the Company’s updates at:

http://cloud.marketing.verde.ag/InvestorsSubscription

The last edition of the newsletter can be accessed at:

 

Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

All Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resources estimates reported by the Company were estimated in accordance with the Canadian National Instrument 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum Definition Standards (May 10, 2014). These standards differ significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

This document contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. This information and these statements, referred to herein as “forward-looking statements” are made as of the date of this document. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect current estimates, predictions, expectations or beliefs regarding future events and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to:

  • the estimated amount and grade of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves;
  • the PFS representing a viable development option for the Project;
  • estimates of the capital costs of constructing mine facilities and bringing a mine into production, of sustaining capital and the duration of financing payback periods;
  • the estimated amount of future production, both produced and sold;
  • timing of disclosure for the PFS and recommendations from the Special Committee;
  • the Company’s competitive position in Brazil and demand for potash; and,
  • estimates of operating costs and total costs, net cash flow, net present value and economic returns from an operating mine.

Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “plans”, “projects”, “estimates”, “envisages”, “assumes”, “intends”, “strategy”, “goals”, “objectives” or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements are based on Verde’s or its consultants’ current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by them and information currently available to them. The most significant assumptions are set forth above, but generally these assumptions include, but are not limited to:

  • the presence of and continuity of resources and reserves at the Project at estimated grades;
  • the geotechnical and metallurgical characteristics of rock conforming to sampled results; including the quantities of water and the quality of the water that must be diverted or treated during mining     operations;
  • the capacities and durability of various machinery and equipment;
  • the availability of personnel, machinery and equipment at estimated prices and within the estimated delivery times;
  • currency exchange rates;
  • Super Greensand® and K Forte® sales prices, market size and exchange rate assumed;
  • appropriate discount rates applied to the cash flows in the economic analysis;
  • tax rates and royalty rates applicable to the proposed mining operation;
  • the availability of acceptable financing under assumed structure and costs;
  • anticipated mining losses and dilution;
  • reasonable contingency requirements;
  • success in realizing proposed operations;
  • receipt of permits and other regulatory approvals on acceptable terms; and
  • the fulfilment of environmental assessment commitments and arrangements with local

Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. Many forward-looking statements are made assuming the correctness of other forward looking statements, such as statements of net present value and internal rates of return, which are based on most of the other forward-looking statements and assumptions herein. The cost information is also prepared using current values, but the time for incurring the costs will be in the future and it is assumed costs will remain stable over the relevant period.

By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. We caution readers not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates assumptions and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur as forecast, but specifically include, without limitation: risks relating to variations in the mineral content within the material identified as Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves from that predicted; variations in rates of recovery and extraction; the geotechnical characteristics of the rock mined or through which infrastructure is built differing from that predicted, the quantity of water that will need to be diverted or treated during mining operations being different from what is expected to be encountered during mining operations or post closure, or the rate of flow of the water being different; developments in world metals markets; risks relating to fluctuations in the Brazilian Real relative to the Canadian dollar; increases in the estimated capital and operating costs or unanticipated costs; difficulties attracting the necessary work force; increases in financing costs or adverse changes to the terms of available financing, if any; tax rates or royalties being greater than assumed; changes in development or mining plans due to changes in logistical, technical or other factors; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; risks relating to receipt of regulatory approvals; delays in stakeholder negotiations; changes in regulations applying to the development, operation, and closure of mining operations from what currently exists; the effects of competition in the markets in which Verde operates; operational and infrastructure risks and the additional risks described in Verde’s Annual Information Form filed with SEDAR in Canada (available at www.sedar.com) for the year ended December 31, 2021. Verde cautions that the foregoing list of factors that may affect future results is not exhaustive.

When relying on our forward-looking statements to make decisions with respect to Verde, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Verde does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by Verde or on our behalf, except as required by law.

 

For additional information please contact:

Cristiano Veloso, Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Tel: +55 (31) 3245 0205; Email: investor@verde.ag

www.investor.verde.ag | www.supergreensand.com | www.verde.ag

 

[1] Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Effective Date of the mineral resource estimate is March 31, 2014.

[2] The investment in the railway branch construction is expected to be assumed by the rail operator.

[3] Owner’s cost includes licensing, technical studies and projects, land purchase, equipment and personnel mobilization and demobilization.

[4] Mining operating costs are estimated as a weighted average between transport distance and the feedstock’s mass.

[5] Others Include: Mining Labour, Environmental Recovery, Environmental Compensation and Support Facilities Maintenance.

[6] Learn more about our technologies: https://verde.docsend.com/view/yvthnpuv8jx6g4r9

[7] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/2-5-million-tonnes-per-year-potash-mining-concession-granted-to-verde/

[8] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-to-reach-3-million-tonnes-potash-production-capacity-in-2022/

[9] As per the National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects within Canada (“NI 43 -101”), filed on SEDAR in 2017. See the Pre-Feasibility Study at: https://investor.verde.ag/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/NI-43-101-Pre-Feasibility-Technical-Report-Cerrado-Verde-Project.pdf

[10] Union of the Agricultural Fertilizers and Correctives Industry, in the State of São Paulo (“SIACESP”, from Sindicato da Indústria de Fertilizantes e Corretivos Agropecuários, no Estado de São Paulo).

Verde’s Q1 2022 revenue grows 1,260%

Results surpass EPS guidance by 254%

 

Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Verde AgriTech Plc (TSX: “NPK”) (OTCQB: “AMHPF”) (“Verde” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce its financial results for the first quarter of 2022 (“Q1 2022”).

Q1 2022 Financials

  • Revenue increased by 1,260% in Q1 2022, to $11,304,000 compared to $831,000 in Q1 2021.
  • Revenue in Brazilian Real (“R$”) increased by 1,196% in Q1 2022, to R$46,627,000 compared to R$3,597,000 in Q1 2021.
  • Sales by volume increased by 574% in Q1 2022, to 111,667 tonnes sold compared to 16,558 tonnes sold in Q1 2021.
  • Gross margin increased to 77% in Q1 2022, compared to 41% in Q1 2021.
  • EBITDA before non-cash events increased to $3,678,000 in Q1 2022, compared to an operating loss of $887,000 in Q1 2021.
  • Net profit increased to $3,033,000 in Q1 2022, compared to a net loss of $1,811,000 in Q1 2021.

Subsequent Events

  • In April 2022, the Company announced that Plant 2 was on track to start production in Q3 2022, initially with a 1,200,000 tpy production capacity, as announced by the Company in the press release published on March 03, 2022. The final Plant 2 capacity of 2,400,000 tpy is expected to be reached in Q4 2022. Therefore, by Q4 2022, with Plant 2’s expansion, overall production capacity is expected to be 3,000,000 tpy, establishing Verde as Brazil’s largest potash producer.
  • In April 2022, the Market Study (the “Study”) that will underpin the preparation of the New Pre-Feasibility Study announced by the Company on March 01, 2021 (the “PFS”) was concluded. The Study calculated the potential Brazilian agricultural market for potash, sulphur, and the micronutrients zinc, boron, copper and manganese. The Study was conducted between May 2021 and March 2022, it will be an integral part of the PFS. The PFS will contemplate a scenario of total annual production of up to 50,000,000 tonnes per year (“tpy”) of Verde’s Product, equivalent to 63% of the total Brazilian potash consumption in 2021.
  • In April 2022, Bio Revolution, Verde’s newest technology that enables the incorporation of microorganisms to mineral fertilizers, was launched by the Company.[1]​ K Forte® will be the first fertilizer in the world to use Bio Revolution technology. Bacillus aryabhattai, widely renowned in agriculture for its multiple benefits, will be the first microorganism to be incorporated into Verde’s Product. ​Verde’s Plant 1 is already equipped with a facility for deploying Bio Revolution. At Plant 2, a proportionally larger Bio Revolution facility will be built, with operations expected by the end of 2022.​
  • In May 2022, Verde announced an increase in its 2022 guidance, previously published on January 10, 2022. The revised 2022 guidance provides for sales of 1,000,000 tonnes of Verde’s multinutrient potassium products, BAKS® and K Forte® sold internationally as Super Greensand® (the “Product”), with revenue of C$109.09 million, EBITDA of C$49.06 million and net earnings per share (“EPS”) of C$0.87. The 2023 guidance provides for sales of 2,000,000 tonnes.

 

“2022 has started in a very shaky manner for the agricultural market globally. In Brazil, which depends on imports for over 96% of its potash supplies, the concern with fertilizers has been at the forethought of most farmers. Despite the record rainfalls during the period, which postponed Verde’s delivery of an additional 25,133 tonnes of Product in Q1 2022, our Team successfully reached a growing portion of Brazil’s market. Verde’s target towards the delivery of 1,000,000 tonnes by the end of 2022 is further boosted by these latest results.”  declared Verde’s Founder, President & CEO Cristiano Veloso.

2022 Guidance

On May 03, 2022, Verde announced an increase in its 2022 and 2023 guidance,[2] previously published on January 10, 2022.[3] The Company’s original and revised 2022 targets are detailed on a quarterly basis, to reflect the market demand’s seasonality, as follows:

 

Period Q1 2022 Q2 2022 Q3 2022 Q4 2022 FY 2022
Guidance Original
Jan 2022
Achieved
in Q1 2022
Original
Jan 2022
Revised
May 2022
Original
Jan 2022
Revised
May 2022
Original
Jan 2022
Revised
May 2022
Original
Jan 2022
Revised
May 2022
EPS (C$) 0.02 0.06 0.18 0.21 0.25 0.35 0.06 0.25 0.50 0.87
EBITDA (C$’000)[4] 1,358 3,678 10,155 11,808 13,414 19,259 3,506 14,319 28,434 49,065
Revenue (C$’000) 10,070 11,304 21,954 22,902 27,228 40,121 13,011 34,769 72,263 109,097
Sales target (tonnes) 115,000 111,667 200,000 200,000 250,000 353,718 135,000 334,615 700,000 1,000,000

 

The 2022 guidance is underpinned by the following assumptions:

  • Average Brazilian Real (“R$”) to Canadian Dollar exchange rate: C$1.00 = R$4.40
  • Verde’s Product CIF and FOB average price for the full year, including delivered orders, committed orders and projected orders: C$109 per tonne
  • Sales Incoterms: 50% CIF and 50% FOB
  • Sales channels: 40% direct sales and 60% indirect sales

 

2023 Guidance

For 2023, Verde’s updated sales volume target is 2,000,000 tonnes. This target represents a potential 100% growth Year-on-Year (“YoY”).

Period FY 2023
Guidance Original
Jan 2022
Revised
May 2022
Sales target (tonnes) 1,400,000 2,000,000

 

 

Selected Annual Financial Information

The table below summarizes Q1 2022 financial results compared to Q1 2021:

All amounts in
CAD $’000
Q1 2022 Q1 2021
Tonnes sold ‘000 112 17
Revenue per tonne sold $ 101 50
Production cost per tonne sold $ (24) (30)
Gross Profit per tonne sold $ 77 20
Gross Margin 77% 41%
 
Revenue 11,304 831
Production costs (2,654) (490)
Gross Profit 8,650 341
Gross Margin 77% 41%
Sales and product delivery
freight expenses
(3,931) (531)
General and administrative expenses (1,041) (697)
EBITDA (1) 3,678 (887)
Share Based and Bonus
Payments (Non-Cash Event) (2)
(64) (822)
Depreciation and Amortisation (2) (26) (5)
Profit on disposal of plant and
equipment (2)
9
Operating Profit / (loss) after
non-cash events
3,588 (1,705)
Interest Income/Expense (185) (75)
Net Profit / (Loss) before tax 3,403 (1,780)
Income tax (370) (31)
Net Profit / (Loss) 3,033 (1,811)

 

(1) – Non GAAP measure
(2) – Included in General and Administrative expenses in financial statements

 

External Factors

Revenue and costs are affected by external factors, including changes in the exchange rates between the C$ and R$ along with fluctuations in potassium chloride CIF (Minas Gerais) prices. The table below summaries these changes.

Change % 3 months ended
Mar 31, 2022
3 months ended
Mar 31, 2021
Canadian Dollar (C$)
Average Exchange Rate
-5% R$4.12 R$4.33
Potassium Chloride CIF
(Minas Gerais) Lowest Price(1)
+154% US$800 US$315
Potassium Chloride CIF
(Minas Gerais) Highest Price(1)
+204% US$1,200 US$395

 

(1) – Source: Acerto Limited Report.

 

Net Profits and EPS

The Company generated a net profit of $3,033,000 for Q1 2022, an increase of $4,844,000 compared to a net loss of $1,811,000 for Q1 2021. The basic earnings per share was $0.060 for Q1 2022, compared to loss per share of $0.036 for Q1 2021.

 

Product Sales

Sales by volume increased by 574% in Q1 2022, to 111,667 tonnes sold compared to 16,558 tonnes sold in Q1 2021.

 

Revenue

Revenue from sales increased by 1,260% in Q1 2022, to $11,304,000 from the sale of 111,667 tonnes of the Product, at $101 per tonne sold; compared to $831,000 in Q1 2021 from the sale of 16,558 tonnes of the Product, at $50 per tonne sold.

Revenue per tonne excluding freight expenses (FOB price) improved by 105% in Q1 2022, to $75 compared to $36 in Q1 2021.

The KCl price increased by 204% in Q1 2022, compared to Q1 2021. Verde did not, however, see a proportional increase in its pricing for Q1 2022 sales because it had sold part of its Q1 production in Q4 2021 and discounts are applied.

Revenue per tonne in Q1 2022 was higher than Q1 2021 mainly due to:

  1. Product volume sold as CIF (Cost Insurance and Freight) increased from 34% of total sales in Q1 2021 to 60% in Q1 2022.
  2. Potassium Chloride CIF (Minas Gerais) price increased from US$315-395 per tonne in Q1 2021 to US$800-US$1,200 per tonne in Q1 2022 (as reported by Acerto Limited, a market intelligence firm).

 

Production costs

Production costs include all direct costs from mining, processing, and the addition of other nutrients to the Product, such as Sulphur and Boron. They also include the logistics costs from the mine to the factory and related salaries.

Production costs increased by 442% in Q1 2022, to $2,654,000 compared to $490,000 in Q1 2021. This was due to a 574% increase in volume sold, from 16,558 tonnes in Q1 2022 to 111,667 tonnes in Q1 2021. Cost per tonne decreased by 20% in Q1 2022, to $24 compared to $30 in Q1 2021. This reduction was mainly driven by fixed cost dilution in Q1 2022.

 

Sales Expenses

CAD $’000 Q1 2022 Q1 2021
Sales and marketing expenses (822) (293)
Fees paid to independent sales agents (136) (9)
Product delivery freight expenses (2,973) (229)
Total (3,931) (531)

 

Sales and marketing expenses

Sales and marketing expenses include employees’ salaries, car rentals, travel within Brazil, hotel expenses, customer relationship management (CRM) software licenses, and the promotion of the Product in marketing events.

Expenses increased by 181% in Q1 2022, to $822,000 compared to $293,000 in Q1 2021, mainly due to a further expansion of Verde’s sales and marketing team, with professional headcount in the team increasing from an average of 43 in Q1 2021 to 62 in Q1 2022. This increase is in line with the Company’s accelerated growth strategy.

 

Fees paid to independent sales agents

As part of Verde’s marketing and sales strategy, the Company pays out commissions to its independent sales agents.

Fees paid to independent sales agents increased by 1431% in Q1 2022, to $136,000 compared to $9,000 in

Q1 2021, as a direct result of increased sales and higher volume sold by sales agents compared to internal sales and distributors.

 

Product delivery freight expenses

Product delivery freight expenses increased by 1197% in Q1 2022, to $2,973,000 compared to $229,000 in Q1 2021, as the Company has significantly increased the volume sold as CIF (Cost Insurance and Freight), up from 34% of total sales in Q1 2021 to 60% in Q1 2022 and due to higher fuel prices, which increased 44% in Q1 2022 compared to Q1 2021.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

CAD $’000 Q1 2022 Q1 2021
General administrative expenses (410) (478)
Legal, professional, consultancy
and audit costs
(411) (159)
IT/Software expenses (204) (52)
Taxes and licenses fees (16) (8)
Total (1,041) (697)

 

General administrative expenses

These costs include general office expenses, rent, bank fees, insurance, foreign exchange variances and remuneration of executive and administrative staff in Brazil.

Expenses decreased by 14% in Q1 2022, to $410,000 compared to $478,000 in Q1 2021 mainly due to incentive compensation to the key management in Q1 2021.

Despite the reduction, salary costs have increased in 2022 as they include additional administrative employees, with professional headcount in the team increasing from an average of 26 in Q1 2021 to 57 in Q1 2022 to help support the Company’s growth.

 

Legal, professional, consultancy and audit costs

Legal and professional fees include legal, professional, consultancy fees along with accountancy, audit and regulatory costs. Consultancy fees are consultants employed in Brazil, such as accounting services, patent process, lawyer’s fees and regulatory consultants.

Expenses increased by 159% in Q1 2022, to $411,000 compared to $159,000 in Q1 2021, due to higher expenses with environmental, legal, accounting, and IT consultancies.

 

IT/Software expenses

IT/Software expenses include software licenses such as Microsoft Office, Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software and enterprise resource planning (ERP).

Expenses increased by 290% in Q1 2022, to $204,000 compared to $52,000 in Q1 2022, mainly due to CRM and ERP consultants services.

 

Taxes and licences

Taxes and licence expenses include general taxes, product branding and licence costs.

Expenses increased in Q1 2022, to $16,000 compared to $8,000 in Q1 2022.

 

Share Based and Bonus Payments (Non-Cash Event)

These costs represent the expense associated with stock options granted to employees and directors and non-cash bonuses paid to key management.

Share Based Payments costs decreased by 92% in Q1 2022, to $64,000 compared to $822,000 in Q1 2021.

 

Q1 2022 Results Conference Call

The Company will host a conference call on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at 09:00 am Eastern Time, to discuss Q4 and FY 2021 results and provide an update. Subscribe using the link below and receive the conference details by email.

Date: Wednesday, May 25, 2022
Time: 09:00 am Eastern Time
Subscription link: https://bit.ly/Q1-2022_Results_Presentation

The questions can be submitted in advance through the following link up to 48 hours before the conference call:

The Company’s first quarter financial statements and related notes for the period ended March 31, 2021 are available to the public on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and the Company’s website at www.investor.verde.ag/.

 

About Verde AgriTech

Verde is an agricultural technology Company that produces potash fertilizers. Our purpose is to improve the health of all people and the planet. Rooting our solutions in nature, we make agriculture healthier, more productive, and profitable.

Verde is a fully integrated Company:  it mines and processes its main feedstock from its 100% owned mineral properties, then sells and distributes the Product.

Verde’s focus on research and development has resulted in one patent and eight patents pending. Among its proprietary technologies are Cambridge Tech, 3D Alliance, MicroS Technology, N Keeper, and Bio Revolution.[5] Currently, the Company is fully licensed to produce up to 2.8 million tonnes per year of its multinutrient potassium fertilizers K Forte® and BAKS®, sold internationally as Super Greensand®.[6]

By the end of 2022, Verde aims to become Brazil’s largest potash producer by capacity.[7] Verde has a combined measured and indicated mineral resource of 1.47 billion tonnes at 9.28% K2O and an inferred mineral resource of 1.85 billion tonnes at 8.60% K2O (using a 7.5% K2O cut-off grade).[8] This amounts to 295.70 million tonnes of potash in K2O. For context, in 2021 Brazil’s total consumption of potash in K2O was 7.92 million.[9]

Brazil ranks second in global potash demand and is its single largest importer, currently depending on external sources for over 96% of its potash needs. In 2021, potash accounted for approximately 2% of all Brazilian imports by dollar value.

 

Corporate Presentation

For further information on the Company, please view shareholders’ deck: https://verde.docsend.com/view/tr4c6e5qhjr442t3

 

Investors Newsletter

Subscribe to receive the Company’s updates at:

http://cloud.marketing.verde.ag/InvestorsSubscription

The last edition of the newsletter can be accessed at: 

 

Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. The Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements can be accessed at this link.

 

For additional information please contact:

Cristiano Veloso, President, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Tel: +55 (31) 3245 0205; Email: investor@verde.ag

www.investor.verde.ag | www.supergreensand.com | www.verde.ag

 

[1] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-launches-bio-revolution/

[2] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verdes-2022-guidance-and-two-year-outlook-revised-upwards/

[3] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-announces-2022-guidance-and-two-year-outlook/

[4] Before non-cash events.

[5] Learn more about our technologies: https://verde.docsend.com/view/yvthnpuv8jx6g4r9

[6] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/2-5-million-tonnes-per-year-potash-mining-concession-granted-to-verde/

[7] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-to-reach-3-million-tonnes-potash-production-capacity-in-2022/

[8] As per the National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects within Canada (“NI 43 -101”), filed on SEDAR in 2017. See the Pre-Feasibility Study at: https://investor.verde.ag/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/NI-43-101-Pre-Feasibility-Technical-Report-Cerrado-Verde-Project.pdf

[9] Union of the Agricultural Fertilizers and Correctives Industry, in the State of São Paulo (“SIACESP”, from Sindicato da Indústria de Fertilizantes e Corretivos Agropecuários, no Estado de São Paulo).

Verde’s 2022 guidance and two-year outlook revised upwards

New EPS guidance grows 74%

 

Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Verde AgriTech Plc (TSX: “NPK”) (OTCQB: “AMHPF”) (“Verde” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce an increase in its 2022 and 2023 guidance, previously published on January 10, 2022[1]. The new 2022 guidance provides for sales of 1,000,000 tonnes of Verde’s multinutrient potassium products, BAKS® and K Forte® sold internationally as Super Greensand® (the “Product”), with revenue of C$109.09 million, EBITDA of C$49.06 million and net earnings per share (“EPS”) of C$0.87. The 2023 guidance provides for sales of 2,000,000 tonnes.

The original target for 2022 was for sales of 700,000 tonnes of Product, with revenue of $72.26 million, EBITDA of $28.43 million, EPS of $0.50. The original target for 2023 was for sales of 1,400,000 tonnes of Product. If achieved, the new revenue target for 2022 will represent a Year-on-Year (“YoY”) growth of 294%.

 

2022 Guidance

The Company’s revised full year 2022 guidance is compared to the original targets and the 2021 results, as follows:

 

2021 Results 2022 Guidance
Guidance Published

March 22, 2022[2]

Original

January 10, 2022

Revised

May 03, 2022

EPS (C$) 0.07 0.50 0.87
EBITDA (C$’000)[3] 6,450 28,434 49,065
Revenue (C$’000) 27,709 72,263 109,097
Sales (tonnes) 400,133 700,000 1,000,000

 

The detailed quarterly targets will be updated along with Q1 2022 results, to be released on May 16, 2021.

 

2023 Guidance

For 2023, Verde’s updated sales volume target is 2,000,000 tonnes. This target represents a potential 100% growth Year-on-Year (“YoY”).

 

Period FY 2023
 Guidance Original

January 10, 2022

Revised

May 03, 2022

Sales target (tonnes) 1,400,000 2,000,000

 

On April 26, 2022, Verde announced the launch of Bio Revolution, a new technology that enables the incorporation of microorganisms to its Product.[4] Verde is the first company to commercialize a fertilizer with added microorganisms. As part of the Fourth Agricultural Revolution, microorganisms are seen as a vital component in boosting plant productivity. Bio Revolution will reduce costs for farmers by sustainably increasing the productivity and profitability. Given Verde’s first mover advantage, the Company is working to become world leader at offering a cost-efficient platform for adding microorganisms to agriculture.

 

Call with Cristiano Veloso, Founder and CEO

Cristiano Veloso will host a call on Monday, May 09, 2022, at 10:00 am Eastern Time, to discuss Verde in general and, more specifically, the role of the Company’s new Bio Revolution technology to the Fourth Agricultural Revolution. The call will be held on Twitter Spaces. Subscribe and join the Space using the link below:

 

Date: Monday, May 09, 2022
Time: 10:00 am Eastern Time
Subscription link: https://twitter.com/i/spaces/1MYxNnpYoXnxw

 

About Verde AgriTech

Verde is an agricultural technology company that produces potash fertilizers. Our purpose is to improve the health of all people and the planet. Rooting our solutions in nature, we make agriculture healthier, more productive, and profitable.

Verde is a fully integrated company, from the mining and processing its main feedstock from its 100% owned mineral properties, to the Product sales processes, which also includes direct technical advice for farmers, and distribution.

Verde’s focus on research and development has resulted in one patent and eight patents pending. Among its proprietary technologies are Cambridge Tech, 3D Alliance, MicroS Technology, N Keeper, and Bio Revolution.[5] Currently, the Company is fully licensed to produce up to 2.8 million tonnes per year of its multinutrient potassium fertilizers K Forte® and BAKS®, sold internationally as Super Greensand®.[6] By the end of 2022, it plans to become Brazil’s largest potash producer by capacity.[7] Verde has a combined measured and indicated mineral resource of 1.47 billion tonnes at 9.28% K2O and an inferred mineral resource of 1.85 billion tonnes at 8.60% K2O (using a 7.5% K2O cut-off grade).[8] This amounts to 295.70 million tonnes of potash in K2O. For context, in 2021 Brazil’s total consumption of potash in K2O was 7.92 million.[9]

Brazil ranks second in global potash demand and is its single largest importer, currently depending on external sources for over 96% of its potash needs. In 2021, potash accounted for approximately 2% of all Brazilian imports by dollar value.

 

Corporate Presentation

For further information on the Company, please view shareholders’ deck:

https://verde.docsend.com/view/9mryhmxmcqske7yd

 

Investors Newsletter

Subscribe to receive the Company’s updates at:

http://cloud.marketing.verde.ag/InvestorsSubscription

The last edition of the newsletter can be accessed at:

 

Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. The Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements can be accessed at this link.

 

For additional information please contact:

Cristiano Veloso, Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Tel: +55 (31) 3245 0205; Email: investor@verde.ag

www.investor.verde.ag | www.supergreensand.com | www.verde.ag

 

[1] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-announces-2022-guidance-and-two-year-outlook/

[2] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verdes-q4-sales-by-volume-grow-137-driving-2021-net-profit-growth-to-540/

[3]  Before non-cash events.

[4] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-launches-bio-revolution/

[5] Learn more about our technologies: https://verde.docsend.com/view/yvthnpuv8jx6g4r9

[6] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/2-5-million-tonnes-per-year-potash-mining-concession-granted-to-verde/

[7] See the release at: https://investor.verde.ag/verde-to-reach-3-million-tonnes-potash-production-capacity-in-2022/

[8] As per the National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects within Canada (“NI 43 -101”), filed on SEDAR in 2017. See the Pre-Feasibility Study at: https://investor.verde.ag/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/NI-43-101-Pre-Feasibility-Technical-Report-Cerrado-Verde-Project.pdf

[9] Union of the Agricultural Fertilizers and Correctives Industry, in the State of São Paulo (“SIACESP”, from Sindicato da Indústria de Fertilizantes e Corretivos Agropecuários, no Estado de São Paulo).

Verde launches Bio Revolution

Technology Will Help Enable the Fourth Agricultural Revolution Through Microorganisms

 

Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Verde AgriTech Plc (TSX: “NPK”) (OTCQB: “AMHPF”) (“Verde” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the launch of Bio Revolution, a new technology that enables the incorporation of microorganisms to Verde’s multinutrient potassium fertilizers, K Forte® and BAKS®, sold internationally as Super Greensand® (the “Product”).

Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Supply (“MAPA“, from Ministério da Agricultura, Pecuária e Abastecimento) has approved the incorporation to Verde’s Product of the microorganism Bacillus aryabhattai ASN10 (“B. aryabhattai”), which is renowned in agriculture for its several benefits. Bio Revolution is the technology that will allow the incorporation of B. aryabhattai and other microorganisms into the Product. Verde is the first company to commercialize a fertilizer with added microorganisms. The Company has filed for patent protection of its Bio Revolution technology.

In 2015, Verde started its research that culminated in Bio Revolution technology. Throughout 2020 and 2021, tests established that when Bio Revolution was used to incorporate microorganisms into Verde’s Product, the microorganism’s colonies were constant for periods of six months. Further to B. aryabhattai, the Company is currently conducting research with different microorganisms, and expects to be able to incorporate 3 new microorganisms to its Product in 2022.

“As part of the Fourth Agricultural Revolution, microorganisms are seen as a vital component in boosting plant productivity. Farmers are keenly aware of the transformational opportunities from adding microorganism to their crops, but usually encounter high-costs and technical challenges in effectively deploying microorganisms over vast areas of farmland. It was with that in mind that we developed Bio Revolution, a technology that enables our Product to become the vehicle for the direct application of microorganisms onto soils using traditional fertilization methods. This two-in-one solution will reduce costs for farmers by sustainably increasing the productivity and profitability. Given Verde’s first mover advantage, we will work to become world leaders at offering a cost-efficient platform for adding microorganisms to agriculture.” declared Cristiano Veloso, Verde’s Founder and CEO.

Microorganisms play an important role in agriculture through nitrogen fixation, carbon sequestration, phosphate solubilisation, potassium mobilisation, protection against pathogens and pests, organic matter decomposition, and humus formation.[1] Since the vital importance of soil biome was established for the optimal development of plants,[2] there has been an increasing interest in the use of microorganisms to improve plant health and productivity while ensuring safety for human consumption and protection of the environment.[3]

Verde’s Plant 1 is already endowed with a facility for deploying Bio Revolution. Commercialization of microorganism-incorporated Product is scheduled to start by May 2022. At Plant 2, currently under construction, a proportionally larger Bio Revolution facility will be built, and its operations will start by the end of the year.

Call with Cristiano Veloso, Founder and CEO

Cristiano Veloso will host a call on Monday, May 09, 2022, at 10:00 am Eastern Time, to discuss the Fourth Agricultural Revolution. The call will be held on Twitter Spaces. Subscribe and join the Space using the link below:

Date: Monday, May 09, 2022
Time: 10:00 am Eastern Time
Subscription link: https://twitter.com/i/spaces/1MYxNnpYoXnxw

 

About Verde AgriTech

Verde is an agricultural technology company that produces potash fertilizers. Our purpose is to improve the health of all people and the planet. Rooting our solutions in nature, we make agriculture healthier, more productive, and profitable.

 

Corporate Presentation

For further information on the Company, please view shareholders’ deck:

https://verde.docsend.com/view/9fd2rhwwxxexvnnf

 

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http://cloud.marketing.verde.ag/InvestorsSubscription

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Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” and “forward-looking statements” (collectively, “forward-looking statements”) within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. The Cautionary Language and Forward-Looking Statements can be accessed at this link.

 

For additional information please contact:

Cristiano Veloso, Founder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

Tel: +55 (31) 3245 0205; Email: investor@verde.ag

www.investor.verde.ag | www.supergreensand.com | www.verde.ag

 

 

[1] REZENDE, C. C.; SILVA, M. A. .; FRASCA, L. L. de M. .; FARIA, D. R.; FILIPPI, M. C. C. de .; LANNA, A. C.; NASCENTE, A. S. Multifunctional microorganisms: use in agriculture. Research, Society and Development, [S. l.], v. 10, n. 2, p. e50810212725, 2021. DOI: 10.33448/rsd-v10i2.12725.

[2] ​FAO, ITPS, GSBI, SCBD, and EC. 2020. State of knowledge of soil biodiversity – Status, challenges and potentialities, Report 2020. Rome, FAO. https://doi.org/10.4060/cb1928en

[3] AVIS, Tyler J et al. Multifaceted beneficial effects of rhizosphere microorganisms on plant health and productivity. Soil Biology and Biochemistry 40(7):1733-1740. 2008.