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).
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:
- Product volume sold as CIF (Cost Insurance and Freight) increased from 34% of total sales in Q1 2021 to 60% in Q1 2022.
- 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.
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).
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:
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).
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:
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
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] 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.
Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Verde AgriTech Plc (TSX: “NPK”) (OTCQB: “AMHPF”) (“Verde” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the conclusion of 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”).
The Study calculated the potential Brazilian agricultural market for potash (“Potassium Oxide” or “K2O”), sulphur (“Sulphur”), and the micronutrients zinc, boron, copper and manganese (the “Micronutrients” or “Zn, B, Cu and Mn”). Sulphur and Micronutrients are added to Verde’s multinutrient potassium fertilizer K Forte® (the “Product”) to produce BAKS®, a product launched by the Company on December 15, 2020, which has a higher selling point. The additional elements contained in BAKS® allow Verde to meet the specific demands of different crops and soil conditions, thereby boosting the overall Brazilian market serviceable by the Company’s products.
The Study was conducted between May 2021 and March 2022 and 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. The PFS will update the market information included in the Cerrado Verde Project (the “Project”).
The Pre-Feasibility Study completed in December 2017 (“2017 PFS”) evaluated the technical and financial aspects of total annual production of up to 25,000,000 tpy of Product. The 2017 PFS assumed that a railroad connection was needed to distribute the 25,000,000. Now, based on further and more recent studies for the PFS, the Company has determined the viability of using road haulage for distribution logistics of up to 23,000,000 tpy. A rail spur will only be necessary for logistics of production exceeding such amount, therefore postponing the construction of a railroad access and its related capex.
The PFS contemplates three distinct production scenarios, each modelled in light of the latest Study:
- Scenario A: Annual production of 10Mtpy.
- Scenario B: Annual production of 23Mtpy.
- Scenario C: Annual production of 50Mtpy.
The Company has a combined measured and indicated mineral resource of 1.472 Mt at 9.28% K2O and an inferred mineral resource of 1.850 million tonnes at 8.60% K2O (using a 7.5% K2O cut-off grade)[1]. This amounts to 295.70 million tonnes of potash in K2O. In 2021 Brazil’s consumption of potash in K2O was 7.92 million[2].
“We find ourselves at a key juncture in the Company’s journey, we need to choose between the path of safe expansion or blitzscale to a massive production that supplies the majority of Brazil’s potash consumption. The latter is a more ambitious approach that prioritizes Brazilian farmers’ need for a reliable and clean potash source, to help them feed the world. We will choose not what is easier, but rather the route that is most aligned to our very purpose: to improve the health of all people and the planet.’” said Cristiano Veloso, Verde’s Founder and CEO.
Market Study: Pricing
Potash
The value of the Product’s potash content was calculated based on the cost of KCl, considering the applicable logistic costs from its arrival at Brazilian ports to its final customer. The price for KCl CFR Brazil port adopted for the Study was estimated at US$368.65. The average delivered cost to the farmer was calculated at US$539.16. Table 01 shows the breakdown of KCl cost per tonne delivered to the farmer.
Table 01: Breakdown of KCl cost per tonne delivered to the farmer
| Description |
Brazil’s Weighted Average |
| Amount in US$ |
Amount in R$ |
| CFR Brazil Port Price |
368.65 |
1,768.35 |
| Brazil Port costs[3] |
25.07 |
132.87 |
| Demurrage |
6.00 |
31.80 |
| AFRMM[4] Tax |
8.75 |
46.38 |
| Cost of transportation from Brazil Port to distributor |
37.21 |
197.22 |
| Average margin added by distributor |
81.82 |
433.64 |
| Average transportation cost from distributor to farmer |
12.00 |
63.60 |
| Total |
539.16 |
2,857.57 |
Source: Tec-Fértil.
Despite the Product’s inherent qualities as a multi-nutrient product, the calculation of its price per tonne was based on its K2O content equivalent, without contemplating the additional nutrients and benefits that it delivers. KCl has 60% K2O whereas the Product has 10% K2O. Therefore, considering the concentration of potash in the Product, a farmer will pay approximately 6 times less per tonne of Product than per tonne of KCl. As result, the farmers would pay US$89.86 per tonne of Verde’s Product as a source of K2O.
For the purposes of the Study, the Company assumed pricing of the Product’s K2O content at a 5% discount to conventional KCl as part of its market strategy to accelerate Product trial and adoption across an expanding Brazilian market.
Sulphur
The value of the Product’s sulphur content was calculated based on the sale price of sulphur from S-bentonite, a widely available source of sulphur. The price for the Study was estimated at US$ 410.40 per tonne of S-bentonite. The feedstock purchased and beneficiated by Verde to produce fertilizer grade sulphur is elemental sulphur. The price for the Study was estimated at US$ 263.97 per tonne for the feedstock.
Table 02: Long-term price of the feedstock and similar source of sulphur
| Description |
Feedstock product |
Similar product |
| Material |
Elemental sulphur |
S-bentonite |
| Concentration of nutrient (%) |
99 |
90 |
| Price (US$ / per percentage point per tonne of fertilizer, “ppt”) |
2.34[5] |
4.56[6] |
Source: Tec-Fértil.
Micronutrients
The Micronutrients’ pricing was based on the average individual amounts of each Micronutrient, in kilograms per hectare, as applied for different crops in different regions of Brazil based on fertilization needs and alternatives. Crops that use the largest amount of Micronutrients are Soybeans, Corn, Coffee, Cotton, Reforestation, and Sugarcane.
Table 03: Micronutrients’ feedstock sources for Verde’s Product
| Description |
Zinc |
Boron |
Copper |
Manganese |
| Feedstock |
Zinc Oxide |
Ulexite |
Copper Oxide |
Manganese Oxide |
| Concentration of nutrient (%) |
20 |
10 |
20 |
55 |
| Cost (US$/ppt)[7] |
17.14 |
40.00 |
111.76 |
10.70 |
Source: Tec-Fértil.
Table 04: Long-term cost of similar sources of Micronutrients including soil application cost
| Description |
Zinc |
Boron |
Copper |
Manganese |
| Concentration (%) |
10 |
10 |
20 |
10 |
| Price (US$/ppt)[8] |
40.00 |
113.00 |
135.00 |
12.00 |
Source: Tec-Fértil.
The amount paid by the farmer per tonne of Product as a source of K2O plus sulphur and micronutrients varies according to the intended concentration of each nutrient. A weighted average price for this Product being a source of K2O plus sulphur and micronutrients delivered to the farm was assumed at US$109.19 per tonne.
Market Share
Future demand estimates for nutrients relied on parameters of total planted area, crop and productivity. In addition, the Study accounted for the percentage of producers that apply each nutrient, in light of crop requirements, supply and fertilization alternatives. These criteria were used to calculate the demand for potash, sulphur, and micronutrients on a state-by-state basis across Brazil.
Potash
The Study detailed the Brazilian market share for potash that the Project will be able to supply. Table 05 presents Brazil’s historical consumption of K2O from 2000 to 2020, and the projected consumption up to 2070, with the equivalent amount of K Forte demand.
Table 05: Historical and projected Brazilian K2O consumption and K Forte® equivalent
| Year |
Brazilian K2O Consumption (tonnes) |
Equivalent amount of Verde’s Product 10% K2O (tonnes) |
| 2000 |
2,713,562 |
27,135,620 |
| 2010 |
3,999,706 |
39,997,060 |
| 2020 |
6,810,773 |
68,107,730 |
| 2030 |
8,358,971 |
83,589,710 |
| 2070 |
12,499,412 |
124,994,120 |
Sources: ANDA (potash consumption from 2000 to 2020) and Tec-Fértil (potash demand forecast up to 2070)
Sulphur
According to the Study, the Project would be able to supply 11.66% of the Brazilian sulphur market in Scenario A, 27.28% in the Scenario B and 53.78% in Scenario C. Table 06 presents an estimated consumption value for sulphur in 2020, and the projected consumption up to 2070 according to agribusiness growth forecast.
Table 06: Brazilian sulphur consumption
| Year |
Brazilian sulphur Consumption (tonnes) |
| 2020 |
1,794,297 |
| 2030 |
2,239,164 |
| 2070 |
3,348,286 |
Source: Tec-Fértil, 2022 (Calculation of sulphur consumption in 2020 and sulphur demand forecast for 2070)
Micronutrients
The Study detailed the Brazilian market share for Micronutrients that the Project will be able to supply under the three scenarios of production, as shown in Table 07:
Table 07: Targeted market share for Zn, B, Cu and Mn in Brazil
| Micronutrient |
Zinc |
Boron |
Copper |
Manganese |
| Market share |
Scenario A (10M tpy) |
12.97% |
17.61% |
12.53% |
8.66% |
| Scenario B (23M tpy) |
29.43% |
37.87% |
30.46% |
24.68% |
| Scenario C (50M tpy) |
55.73% |
62.68% |
54.77% |
56.06% |
Source: Tec-Fértil, 2022.
Table 08 presents an estimated consumption value for zinc, boron, copper and manganese in 2020, and the projected consumption up to 2070 according to agribusiness growth forecast.
Table 08: Brazilian Zn, B, Cu and Mn consumption
| Year |
Brazilian Consumption (tonnes) |
| Zinc |
Boron |
Copper |
Manganese |
| 2020 |
25,315 |
26,831 |
5,382 |
10,310 |
| 2030 |
31,967 |
34,301 |
6,793 |
13,265 |
| 2070 |
47,801 |
51,291 |
10,158 |
19,836 |
Source: Tec-Fértil, 2022 (Calculation of micronutrients consumption in 2020 and micronutrients demand forecast for 2070).
“It is hard to overstate the importance of the Market Study because it underscores Verde’s potential market growth in what is the world’s fastest expanding agricultural producer: Brazil. More than ever, we will continue working to improve our technologies and to ramp-up our production, aiming to establish Verde’s Products as a major brand in Brazil’s agricultural scene”, concluded Mr. Veloso.
About Tec-Fértil
The Market Study was done by Tec-Fértil, a leading agricultural consulting company, founded in 1997 by José Francisco da Cunha.
Mr. Cunha holds an agronomist degree from the School of Agriculture of the University of São Paulo (“ESALQ”, from Escola Superior de Agricultura da Universidade Luiz de Queiroz), and postgraduate degrees in Marketing and Finance, with extensive experience in fertilizers, soil fertility, research, commercialization of inputs and technical support in the agricultural sector since 1979.
Mr. Cunha’s work is committed to the environment and focused on sustainable agriculture and the efficient and responsible use of fertilizers.
About Verde AgriTech
Verde is an agricultural technology company that produces 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.
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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, 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] As per the National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects within Canada (“NI 43 -101”), filed on SEDAR in 2017.
[2] 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).
[3] The costs of ports and transport from the port to the distributor are represented by the weighted average considering the demand in tonnes for each one of the ports in Brazil.
[4] Additional Freight for the Renewal of the Merchant Marine. This is an additional charge on freight levied by Brazilian and foreign shipping companies operating in Brazilian ports based on the bill of lading and the cargo manifest.
[5] Taxes and logistical costs already included in the feedstock acquisition value. Long-term cost per tonne of elemental sulphur = US$ 263.97.
[6] Sulphur is predominantly applied as an additive to macronutrient formulations (such as N, P and K). Therefore, the nutrient’s logistical and application costs are considered in the formulations of the products in which they are found. Long-term cost per tonne of S-Bentonite = US$ 410.40.
[7] Long-term cost per tonne of feedstock: Zinc Oxide = US$ 342.80; Ulexite = US$ 400.00; Copper Oxide = US$ 2,235.20; and Manganese Oxide = US$ 588.50.
[8] Long-term cost per tonne of similar product including soil application cost: Granulated zinc = US$ 400.00; Granulated boron = US$ 1,130.00; Granulated copper = US$ 2,700.00; and Granulated manganese = US$ 120.00.