UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
SCHEDULE 14A
(Rule 14a-101)
SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Filed by the Registrant Q
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant □
Check the appropriate box:
□ | Preliminary Proxy Statement |
□ | Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2)) |
Q | Definitive Proxy Statement |
□ | Definitive Additional Materials |
□ | Soliciting Material Pursuant to Rule 14a-12 |
GRYPHON GOLD CORPORATION
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
(Name of Person(a) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
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(3) | Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined): | |
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(4) | Date Filed: |
GRYPHON GOLD CORPORATION
810 - 1130 WEST PENDER STREET
VANCOUVER ▪ BRITISH COLUMBIA ▪ CANADA ▪ V6E 4A4
Notice of Annual Meeting of Stockholders
To all Stockholders of Gryphon Gold Corporation:
You are invited to attend the 2007 Annual Meeting of Stockholder (the “Annual Meeting”) of Gryphon Gold Corporation (the “Company). The Annual Meeting will be held at The Vancouver Club, 915 West Hastings Street, Vancouver BC, beginning September 6, 2007, at 1:30pm. The purposes of the meeting are:
The election of the Nominees to the Companys Board of Directors to serve until the Companys 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders or until successors are duly elected and qualified; the following are Nominees for election as Directors: Albert J. Matter, Richard W. Hughes, Rohan Hazelton, Donald W. Gentry, and Anthony (Tony) D.J. Ker;
To ratify an increase in the number of shares available for the grant of options under the Companys 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan (Option Share Increase);
To ratify the Companys 2007 audited financial statements;
To ratify the appointment of the Companys independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year 2007; and
Any other business that may properly come before the meeting.
The Board of Directors has fixed July 9, 2007, as the record date for the Annual Meeting. Only stockholders of the Company of record at the close of business on that date will be entitled to notice of, and to vote at, the Annual Meeting. A list of stockholders as of July 9, 2007, will be available at the Annual Meeting for inspection by any stockholder.
Stockholders will need to register at the meeting to attend the meeting. If your shares are not registered in your name, you will need to bring proof of your ownership of those shares to the meeting in order to register. You should ask the broker, bank or other institution that holds your shares to provide you with either a copy of an account statement or a letter that shows your ownership of Gryphon Gold Stock as of July 9, 2007. Please bring that documentation to the meeting to register.
IMPORTANT
Whether or not you expect to attend the Annual Meeting, please sign and return the enclosed proxy promptly. If you decide to attend the meeting, you may, if you wish, revoke the proxy and vote your shares in person.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
Rajwant Kang, Secretary
Vancouver, BC, Canada
August 7, 2007
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GRYPHON GOLD CORPORATION
810 1130 WEST PENDER STREET
VANCOUVER ▪ BRITISH COLUMBIA ▪ CANADA ▪ V6E 4A4
Proxy Statement
for
Annual Meeting of Shareholders
To Be Held September 6, 2007
_________________
Unless the context requires otherwise, references in this statement to “Gryphon Gold,” the “Company,” “we,” “us,” or “our refer to Gryphon Gold Corporation.
The Annual Meeting of Stockholders of Gryphon Gold will be held on Thursday, September 6, 200 at The Vancouver Club, 915 West Hastings Street, Vancouver BC, beginning at 1:30pm. We are providing the enclosed proxy materials and form of proxy in connection with the solicitation by the Companys Board of Directors (the Board) of proxies for this Annual Meeting. The Company anticipates that this Proxy Statement and the form of proxy will first be mailed to holders of the Companys Stock on or about August 7, 2007.
You are invited to attend the meeting at the above stated time and location. If you plan to attend and your shares are held in street name in an account with a bank, broker, or other nominee- you must obtain a proxy issued in your name from such broker, bank or other nominee.
You can vote your shares by completing and returning the proxy card or, if you hold shares in street name, by completing the voting form provided by the broker, bank or other nominee. A returned signed proxy card without an indication of how shares should be voted will be voted FOR the election of all Directors, FOR the ratification of the Option Share Increase, FOR the ratification of the audited financial statements, FOR the ratification of the Companys independent registered public accounting firm, and FOR the ratification of the Future Private Placement.
Our corporate bylaws define a quorum as one-third of the voting power of the issued and outstanding voting stock present in person or by proxy. The Companys Articles of Incorporation do not allow cumulative voting for Directors. The nominees who receive the most votes will be elected. A simple majority of the shares present, whether in person or by proxy, is required to ratify the Option Share Increase, the 2007 audited financial statements, and the appointment of the Companys independent registered public accounting firm.
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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT PROXY MATERIALS AND VOTING
Why am I receiving this Proxy Statement and proxy card?
You are receiving this Proxy Statement and proxy card because you were a stockholder of record at the close of business July 9, 2007, and are entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. This Proxy Statement describes issues on which the Company would like you, as a stockholder, to vote. It provides information on these issues so that you can make an informed decision. You do not need to attend the Annual Meeting to vote your shares.
When you sign the proxy card you appoint Rajwant Kang, Secretary and Treasurer to Gryphon Gold, your representative at the meeting. As your representative, he will vote your shares at the meeting (or any adjournments or postponements) as you have instructed them on the proxy card. With proxy voting, your shares will be voted whether or not you attend the Annual Meeting. Even if you plan to attend the meeting, it is a good idea to complete, sign and return your proxy card in advance of the meeting, just in case your plans change.
If an issue comes up for vote at the meeting (or any adjournments or postponements) that is not described in this Proxy Statement, your representative will vote your shares, under your proxy, at their discretion, subject to any limitations imposed by law.
When is the record date?
The Board of Directors has fixed July 9, 2007, as the record date for the Annual Meeting. Only holders of Gryphon Gold voting stock as of the close of business on that date will be entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting.
How many shares are outstanding?
As of July 9, 2007, the Company had 47,521,395 shares of Common Stock issued and outstanding.
What am I voting on?
You are being asked to vote on the following:
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The election of five (5) directors for terms expiring in 2008; |
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The ratification of the Option Share Increase; |
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The ratification of the Companys 2007 audited financial statements; |
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The ratification of the appointment of the Companys independent registered public accounting firm; and |
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Any other business that may properly come before the meeting. |
Each share of Common Stock is entitled to one vote. No cumulative rights are authorized, and dissenters rights are not applicable to any of the matters being voted upon.
The Board recommends a vote FOR each of the nominees to the Board, FOR the ratification of the Option Share Increase, FOR the ratification of the 2007 audited financial statements, and FOR the ratification of the appointment of the Companys independent registered public accounting firm.
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How do I vote?
You have several voting options. You may vote by:
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Signing your proxy card and mailing it in the enclosed, prepaid and addressed envelope; |
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Signing and faxing your proxy card to our transfer agent for proxy voting at the number provided on the proxy card; |
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Voting over the Internet by following the procedures provided on the proxy card; or |
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Attending the Annual Meeting and voting in person. |
If your shares are held in an account with a brokerage firm, bank, dealer, or other similar organization, then you are the beneficial owner of shares held in a street name and these proxy materials are being forwarded to you by that organization. The organization holding your account is considered the stockholder of record for purposes of voting at the Annual Meeting. As a beneficial owner, you have the right to direct your broker, bank or other nominee on how to vote the shares in your account. You are also invited to attend the Annual Meeting. However, since you are not the stockholder of record, you may not vote your shares in person at the meeting unless you request and obtain a valid proxy card from your broker, bank, or other nominee.
Can stockholders vote in person at the Annual Meeting?
The Company will pass out written ballots to anyone who wants to vote at the meeting. If you hold your shares through a brokerage account but do not have a physical share certificate, or the shares are registered in someone elses name, you must request a legal proxy from your stockbroker or the registered owner to vote at the meeting.
What does it mean if I receive more than one proxy card?
If you receive more than one proxy card, it likely means that you have multiple accounts with the transfer agent and/or with stockbrokers. Please vote all of the shares.
What if I share an address with another shareholder and we received only one copy of the proxy materials?
If certain requirements are met under relevant U.S. securities law, including in some circumstances the shareholders prior written consent, we are permitted to deliver one annual report and one proxy statement to a group of shareholders who share the same address. If you share an address with another shareholder and have received only one copy of the proxy materials, but desire another copy, please send written request to our offices at the address below or call us at (604) 261-2229 to request another copy of the proxy materials. Please note that each shareholder should receive a separate proxy card to vote the shares they own.
Send requests to:
Gryphon Gold Corporation
810-1130 West Pender Street
Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4
Attention: Rajwant Kang, Secretary
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What if I change my mind after I return my proxy?
You may revoke your proxy and change your vote at any time before the polls close at the Annual Meeting. You may do this by:
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Signing another proxy with a later date and mailing it to the Companys Inspector of Elections, at the Companys principal executive offices, so long as it is received prior to 12:00 p.m., PST, on September 5, 2007; |
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Voting in person at the Annual Meeting; or |
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Giving written notice to the Companys Secretary, Rajwant Kang, at the address given above, prior to 12:00 p.m., PST on September 5, 2007. |
How many votes do you need to hold the meeting?
To conduct the Annual Meeting, the Company must have a quorum, which means that one-third of outstanding voting shares of the Company as of the record date must be present at the meeting. Your shares will be counted as present at the Annual Meeting if you:
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Submit a properly executed proxy card (even if you do not provide voting instructions); or |
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Attend the Annual Meeting and vote in person. |
What if I abstain from voting?
Abstentions with respect to a proposal are counted for the purposes of establishing a quorum. If a quorum is present, abstentions will not be included in vote totals and will not affect the outcome of the vote of any proposal contained in this years Proxy Statement.
How many votes are needed to elect directors?
The nominees for election as directors at the 2007 Annual Meeting will be elected by a plurality of the votes cast at the meeting. A properly executed proxy card marked Withheld with respect to the election of directors will not be voted and will not count FOR or AGAINST any of the nominees.
How many votes are needed to ratify the Option Share Increase?
The ratification of the Option Share Increase will be approved if the votes cast FOR the proposal exceed the votes cast AGAINST the proposal (a majority of shares voting). A properly executed proxy card marked Abstain with respect to this proposal will not be voted and will not count FOR or AGAINST this proposal.
How many votes are needed to ratify the audited financial statements?
The ratification of the audited financial statements will be approved if the votes cast FOR the proposal exceed the votes cast AGAINST the proposal (a majority of shares voting). A properly executed proxy card marked Abstain with respect to this proposal will not be voted and will not count FOR or AGAINST this proposal.
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How many votes are needed to ratify the appointment of the independent registered public accountant?
The ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public accountant will be approved if the votes cast FOR the proposal exceed the votes cast AGAINST the proposal (a majority of shares voting). A properly executed proxy card marked Abstain with respect to this proposal will not be voted and will not count FOR or AGAINST this proposal.
Will my shares be voted if I do not sign and return my Proxy Card?
If your shares are held through a brokerage account, your brokerage firm, under certain circumstances, may vote your shares.
If your shares are registered in your name, and you do not sign and return your proxy card, your shares will not be voted at the meeting.
How are votes counted?
Your shares will be voted as you indicate. If you just sign your proxy card with no further instructions, your shares will be voted:
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FOR each director nominee for terms expiring in 2008; |
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FOR the ratification of the Option Share Increase; |
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FOR the ratification of the audited financial statements; and |
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FOR the ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public accountant |
Voting results will be tabulated and certified by the Inspector of Elections.
Where can I find the voting results of the meeting?
The Company will publish the final results in the Companys Quarterly Report on Form 10-QSB for the second quarter of 2008, which will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Within four (4) business days of the Annual Meeting, the Company will file a current report on Form 8-K if the shareholders elect new directors, ratify the Articles Amendment and/or ratify the Option Share Increase.
Who will pay for the costs of soliciting proxies?
The Company will bear the cost of soliciting proxies. In an effort to have as large a representation at the meeting as possible, the Companys directors, officers and employees may solicit proxies by telephone or in person in certain circumstances. These individuals will receive no additional compensation for their services other than their regular salaries. Additionally, the Company may hire a proxy solicitor to help reach the quorum requirement. The Company will pay a reasonable fee in relation to these services. Upon request, the Company will reimburse brokers, dealers, banks, voting trustees and their nominees who are holders of record of the Companys Common Stock on the record date for the reasonable expenses incurred for mailing copies of the proxy materials to the beneficial owners of such shares.
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When are stockholder proposals due for the 2008 annual meeting of Stockholders?
In order to be considered for inclusion in next years (2008) proxy statement, stockholder proposals must be submitted in writing to the Companys Secretary, Rajwant Kang, at Gryphon Gold Corporation, 810-1130 West Pender Street, Vancouver, BC, V6E 4A4, and received no later than April 9, 2008. Similarly, stockholder proposals not submitted for inclusion in the proxy statement and received after June 23, 2008 will be considered untimely pursuant to Rule 14a-5(e)(2) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.
How can I obtain a copy of the 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-KSB?
The Companys 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-KSB, including financial statements is available through the SECs website at http://www.sec.gov.
At the written request of any stockholder who owns Common Stock on the record date, the Company will provide to such stockholder, without charge, a paper copy of the Companys 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-KSB as filed with the SEC, including the financial statements and financial statement schedules but not including exhibits. If requested, the Company will provide copies of the exhibits for a reasonable fee. Requests for additional paper copies of the 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-KSB should be mailed to:
Gryphon Gold Corporation
810-1130 West Pender Street
Vancouver, BC
V6E 4A4
Attention: Rajwant Kang, Secretary
What materials accompany this proxy statement?
The following materials accompany this proxy statement:
1.
Form Proxy Card; and
2.
The Company's Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended March 31, 2007.
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PROPOSAL 1 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
GENERAL QUESTIONS
What is the current composition of the Board?
The Companys current bylaws require the Board of Directors to have at least one (1) and no more than nine (9) Directors. The current Board is composed of six (6) Directors.
Is the Board divided into classes? How long is the term?
No, the Board is not divided into classes. All directors serve one-year terms until their successors are elected and qualified at the next Annual Meeting.
Who is standing for election this year?
The Board of Directors has nominated the following five (5) current Board Members for election at the 2007 Annual Meeting, to hold office until the 2008 Annual Meeting:
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Albert J. Matter;
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Richard W. Hughes;
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Rohan Hazelton;
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Donald W. Gentry; and
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Anthony (Tony) D.J. Ker.
What if a nominee is unable or unwilling to serve?
Should any one or more of these nominees become unable or unwilling to serve, which is not anticipated, the Board of Directors may designate substitute nominees, in which event the proxy representatives will vote proxies that otherwise would be voted for the named nominees for the election of such substitute nominee or nominees.
How are nominees elected?
Directors are elected by a plurality of the votes present in person or represented by proxy and entitled to vote at the meeting.
The Board of Directors recommends a vote FOR each of the nominees.
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INFORMATION ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS, AND KEY EMPLOYEES
The following table sets forth certain information with respect to our current Directors and executive officers. The term for each Director expires at our next annual meeting or until his or her successor is appointed and qualified. The ages of the Directors and officers are shown as of July 23, 2007.
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Name and Municipality of |
Current Office with |
Principal Occupation |
Director Since |
Anthony (Tony) D. J. Ker West Vancouver, British Columbia |
Director, Chief Executive Officer and President |
Appointed Chief Executive Officer September 2006, Executive Vice President, Gryphon Gold Corporation, 2003 to present, General Manager, Transcontinental Printing Inc., 1996 to 2004. |
May 7, 2004 |
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Albert J. Matter Vancouver, British Columbia |
Director and Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board |
Executive Chairman, since August 2005; Chairman of the Board and Vice President of Corporate Development, Gryphon Gold Corporation, 2003 to present. President National Gold Corporation, 1999 to 2002. |
April 30, 2003 |
Donald E. Ranta |
Director, Former Vice President of Exploration |
Vice President, Gryphon Gold Corporation 2003 to present. Consulting Geologist 2001-2003. President, NRX Global (USA) Corp., 2000-2002. |
June 14, 2003 |
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Richard W. Hughes North Vancouver, British Columbia |
Director |
President of Klondike Gold Corp. 1985 to present. |
June 14, 2003 |
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Rohan Hazelton North Vancouver, British Columbia |
Director |
Vice President Finance 2006 to present, formerly corporate Controller 2004 to 2006 and Mgr. Treasury and Finance, 2002 to 2004, Goldcorp Inc. (and Predecessor Wheaton River Minerals Ltd.), Auditor, Deloitte & Touche LLP, 1999 to 2002. |
July 6, 2005 |
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Donald W. Gentry Bella Vista, Arkansas |
Director |
President, Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and Director of PolyMet Mining Corporation, 1998 to 2003 |
July 18, 2005 |
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Michael K. Longinotti North Vancouver, British Columbia |
Chief Financial Officer |
Chief Financial Officer, appointed May 15, 2006, Chief Financial officer Digital Payment Technologies February 2005 to May 2006, CFO Knight Signs Sept 2004 to February 2005, CFO Silent Witness, Nov. 2000 to June 2003. 1992 to 2000 Comptroller and then Treasurer of Cominco Ltd. |
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Rajwant Kang Vancouver, British Columbia |
Corporate Controller, Secretary, and Treasurer |
Corporate Controller, Treasurer & Secretary since April 2006, Financial Officer, Secretary & Director Star Shipping (Canada) Ltd. and Squamish Terminals Limited April 1999 to April 2006, Financial Officer and Secretary Steppe Gold Resources January 1997 to April 1999. |
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The following is a description of the business background of the directors and executive officers of the Corporation.
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Albert J. Matter, 60, Director, has served as our Chairman of the Board, Vice President of Corporate Development, past Secretary and Treasurer since its inception in early 2003 and was appointed Executive Chairman on August 10, 2005. From 1999 to December of 2002 Mr. Matter served as President and Chief Executive Officer of National Gold Corporation. From spring of 1998 to fall of 1999 Mr. Matter was in retirement. Mr. Matter has over 30 years of experience of providing corporate finance, strategic planning, mergers and acquisition, and business development assistance to numerous corporations and high net worth individuals, especially in Western Canada. Successful corporate financing highlights include projects for Consumers Distributing Ltd., CN/CP Telecom, Madison Ventures Ltd., Rea Gold Corporation, Echo Bay Mines Ltd., Russell Steel Ltd., Blackdome Mining Ltd., Southward Energy Ltd., Winspear Resources Ltd. and National Gold Corporation. Mr. Matter holds a B.A. in Economics from the University of British Columbia.
Donald E. Ranta, 63, Director, served as our Vice President of Exploration from June 14, 2003, to January 2006, has held the following positions for the past five years: Director, President and Managing Director, Union Hill Partners, 1997-2000; President, NRX Global (USA) Corp., 2000-2002; Consulting Geologist, 2001 to 2003. Mr. Ranta is an internationally recognized exploration executive experienced in planning, implementing, and directing successful exploration and acquisition programs throughout North America, South America, Africa and other international locations. Dr. Ranta has extensive experience in generative exploration, project exploration and appraisal, geologic-engineering-economic evaluation, strategic and business planning, and management. Dr. Ranta has over 35 years of business experience and has served in various positions for mining companies, including President, Managing Director, Vice President of Exploration (Echo Bay Mines), Manager (VP) of North American Exploration (Phelps Dodge Corp.), Project Manager and Chief Geologist (AMAX). Dr. Ranta has a Ph.D. in Geological Engineering/Geology from Colorado School of Mines, a M.S. in Geological Engineering/Geology from Mackay School of Mines, University of Nevada, and a B.S. in Geological Engineering from University of Minnesota
Richard W. Hughes, 75, Director, is President of Hastings Management Corp., a private management company providing administrative and professional services to public companies engaged in mineral exploration. He is also President of five companies listed on the Toronto Venture Stock Exchange (TSX): Klondike Gold Corp., Klondike Silever Corp., Abitibi Mining Corp., Sedex Mining Corp., Amador Gold Corp., Chairman of Golden Chalice Resources Inc. and is a director of Alamos Gold Corp. and 10 other TSX listed companies. Mr. Hughes has brought four mines into production and had a prominent role in the discovery of the Golden Giant (Hemlo Mine) in Ontario Canada and was responsible for the discovery of the Belmoral Mine and the Sleeping Giant Mine, both in Quebec, Canada.
Rohan Hazelton, 33, Director, joined our board in July 2005 and was appointed Chairman of the Audit Committee. Mr. Hazelton is currently Vice President, Finance, and formerly was Corporate Controller for Goldcorp Inc. Prior to Goldcorps merger with Wheaton River Minerals Ltd; he was a key member of Wheatons management team since 2002 during Wheatons rapid growth and significant increase in shareholder value. Mr. Hazelton is a Chartered Accountant and previously worked for Deloitte & Touche LLP and Arthur Andersen LLP. Prior to that, Mr. Hazelton was a commercial loans officer for Dialog Bank Moscow, Russia. Mr. Hazelton holds a B.A. in Math and Economics from Harvard University.
Donald W. Gentry, 64, Director, joined our board in July 2005 after retiring from PolyMet Mining Corporation as its President, Chief Executive Officer, Chairman and Director from 1998 to 2003. He is a retired Professor Emeritus of the Colorado School of Mines, having served that institution from 1972 to 1998 as Professor, Department Head and Dean of Engineering. Dr. Gentry also currently serves on the Board of Constellation Copper Corporation. He has an international reputation as a consulting mining engineer, professional educator and mining executive. His primary interests center on the financial aspects of project evaluation, investment decision analysis, project financing, and corporate investment strategies. He previously served as a Director of Santa Fe Pacific Gold Corporation, Newmont Mining Corporation, and Newmont Gold Company and currently is a Director of Golden Gryphon Explorations (a company which is unrelated to Gryphon Gold Corporation). He was elected President of the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration, Inc. in 1993 and the American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical and Petroleum Engineers in 1996, and to the National Academy of Engineering in 1996. He holds B.S., M.S. and PhD. degrees in mining engineering from the University of Illinois, Mackay School of Mines, and U niversity of Arizona, respectively.
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Anthony Ker, 50, Director, has served as our Chief Executive Officer since September 2006 prior to which he was Executive Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer since August 2003. From 1999 to February 2003, Mr. Ker served as Director, Treasurer, Secretary and Chief Financial Officer for National Gold Corporation, a TSX Venture Exchange listed company that merged into Alamos Gold, Inc. (TSX) during the spring of 2003. From 1996 and concurrent with the positions at National Gold Corporation, he was General Manager for Transcontinental Printing, Inc., British Columbia Division, a Toronto Stock Exchange listed company, and the second largest printer in Canada. Prior to the Transcontinental Printing, Inc. position, Mr. Ker managed a large coastal sawmill for International Forest Products Limited and Weldwood of Canada Limited in British Columbia. Mr. Ker holds a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from University of British Columbia.
Michael K. Longinotti, 50, was appointed as our Chief Financial Officer effective May 15, 2006. From 2003 to 2006 Mr. Longinotti has worked with several entrepreneurial companies as CFO including Digital Payment Technologies, Knight Signs and Rx Networks. From 2000 to 2004 he was CFO of Silent Witness, a NASDAQ and TSX listed provider of security equipment and network provider. From 1989 to 2000 he was in various positions, including Comptroller and Treasurer at Cominco Ltd. a multinational mining and smelting corporation with Cdn$ 3 billion in assets. Mr. Longinotti holds a B.S. in Geology and a B.S. in Environmental Science from Washington State University and a B.A. in Business Administration from the University of Washington and is a member of the Washington State Society of Certified Public Accountants.
Rajwant Kang, 34, joined our Company April 2006 as our Corporate Controller and was appointed our Treasurer and Secretary in September 2006. From 1999 to 2006 Mr. Kang served as the principal financial officer and Corporate Secretary for Star Shipping (Canada) Ltd. and Squamish Terminals Limited both privately held companies engaged in the shipping industry. He was appointed to the Board of Directors for both companies in 2001. From 1991 to 1999 he was in various positions both in Canada and the United Kingdom including Financial Officer and Secretary for Steppe Gold Resources Ltd. a junior mineral exploration. Mr. Kang holds a Business and Finance accreditation from the United Kingdom and is a member of the Association of Accounting Technicians (UK) he also is a designated member of the Certified Management Accountants of Canada (CMA).
Family Relationships
None of our Directors, executive officers, or key employees are related by blood, marriage, or adoption to any other Director, executive officer, or other key employees. To our knowledge, there are no arrangement or understanding between any of our officers and any other person, including Directors, pursuant to which the officer was selected to serve as an officer.
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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
BOARD OF DIRECTORS STRUCTURE
General Structure
The Companys current bylaws require the Board of Directors to have at least one (1) and no more than nine (9) Directors. The current Board is composed of six (6) Directors.
Director Independence
We have six (6) directors at March 31, 2007, including three independent directors, as follows:
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Albert J. Matter;
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Donald E. Ranta;
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Richard W. Hughes (independent);
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Rohan Hazelton (independent);
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Donald W. Gentry (independent); and
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Anthony (Tony) D.J. Ker.
An independent director is a director whom the Board of Directors has determined satisfies the requirements for independence under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, section 10A(m)(3) and under section 121A of the American Stock Exchange Company Guide.
MEETINGS OF THE BOARD AND BOARD MEMBER ATTENDANCE
OF ANNUAL MEETING
During the fiscal year ending March 31, 2007, the Board held 11 meetings of the Board. None of the incumbent Directors attended fewer than 75% of the Board meetings.
Board members are not required to attend the annual meeting. Last year 8 members of the Board attended the annual meeting.
COMMUNICATIONS TO THE BOARD
Shareholders who are interested in communicating directly with members of the Board, or the Board as a group, may do so by writing directly to the individual Board member c/o Secretary, Rajwant Kang, Gryphon Gold Corporation, 810-1130 West Pender Street, Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4. The Companys Secretary will forward communications directly to the appropriate Board member. If the correspondence is not addressed to the particular member, the communication will be forwarded to a Board member to bring to the attention of the Board. The Companys Secretary will review all communications before forwarding them to the appropriate Board member.
BOARD COMMITTEES
Our Board of Directors has established four board committees: an Audit Committee, a Compensation Committee, a Corporate Governance/Nominating Committee, and a Project Development, Environmental & Sustainability Committee.
The information below sets out the current members of each of Gryphon Golds board committees and summarizes the functions of each of the committees in accordance with their mandates.
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Audit Committee and Audit Committee Financial Experts
Our Audit Committee has been structured to comply with Canadian Multilateral Instrument 52-110-Audit Committees (MI 52-110) and Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Our Audit Committee is comprised of Richard Hughes, Don Gentry and Rohan Hazelton, all of whom are independent directors under MI 52-110 and the audit committee rules of the American Stock Exchange. Rohan Hazelton is the Chairman of the Audit Committee. Rohan Hazelton satisfies the criteria for an audit committee financial expert under Item 401(e) of Regulation S-B of the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
The Audit Committee meets with management and Gryphon Golds external auditors to review matters affecting financial reporting, the system of internal accounting and financial controls and procedures and the audit procedures and audit plans. The Audit Committee reviews Gryphon Golds significant financial risks, will be involved in the appointment of senior financial executives and will annually review Gryphon Golds insurance coverage and any off-balance sheet transactions.
The Audit Committee is mandated to monitor Gryphon Golds audit and the preparation of financial statements and to review and recommend to the board of directors all financial disclosure contained in Gryphon Golds public documents. The Audit Committee is also mandated to appoint external auditors, monitor their qualifications and independence and determine the appropriate level of their remuneration. The external auditors report directly to the Audit Committee and to the board of directors. The Audit Committee and board of directors each have the authority to terminate the external auditors engagement (subject to confirmation by shareholders). The Audit Committee will also approve in advance any services to be provided by the external auditors which are not related to the audit.
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007, the Audit Committee met 4 times. A copy of the Audit Committee charter can be found on the Companys website at www.gryphongold.com.
Audit Committee Report
The Companys Audit Committee oversees the Companys financial reporting process on behalf of the Board of Directors (the Board). The Committee has three members, each of whom is independent as determined under Rule 10A-3 of the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules of the American Stock Exchange. The Committee operates under a written charter adopted by the Board.
The Committee assists the Board by overseeing the (1) integrity of the Companys financial reporting and internal control, (2) independence and performance of the Companys independent auditors, (3) and provides an avenue of communication between management, the independent auditors, and the Board.
In the course of providing its oversight responsibilities regarding the 2007 financial statements, the Committee reviewed the 2007 audited financial statements, which appear in the 2007 Annual Report to Shareholders, with management and the Companys independent auditors. The Committee reviewed accounting principles, practices, and judgments as well as the adequacy and clarity of the notes to the financial statements.
The Committee reviewed the independence and performance of the independent auditors who are responsible for expressing an opinion on the conformity of those audited financial statements with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and such other matters as required to be communicated by the independent auditors in accordance with Statement on Auditing Standards 61 (Codification of Statements on Auditing Standards, AU 380), as modified or supplemented.
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The Committee meets with the independent auditors to discuss their audit plans, scope and timing on a regular basis, with or without management present. The Committee has received the written disclosures and the letter from the independent auditors required by Independence Standards Board, Standard No. 1 (Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1, Independence Discussions with Audit Committees), as may be modified or supplemented.
In reliance on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Committee recommended to the Board, and the Board has approved, that the audited financial statements be included in the Annual Report to the Securities and Exchange Commission on Form 10-KSB for the year ended March 31, 2007. The Committee and the Board have also recommended the selection of Ernst & Young as independent auditors for the Company for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2008.
Submitted by the Audit Committee Members
Richard Hughes
Don Gentry
Rohan Hazelton
Additional information relating to the Audit Committee is contained in the following sections of the Companys Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended March 31, 2007: Item 9 Directors and Executive Officers and Item 14 Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
Compensation Committee
The Compensation Committee is comprised of Richard Hughes, Donald Gentry, and Rohan Hazelton, all of whom are independent directors (under section 121A of the American Stock Exchange Company Guide). The Compensation Committee is responsible for considering and authorizing terms of employment and compensation of Directors, executive officers and providing advice on compensation structures in the various jurisdictions in which Gryphon Gold operates. In addition, the Compensation Committee reviews both the overall salary objectives of Gryphon Gold and significant modifications made to employee benefit plans, including those applicable to directors and executive officers, and proposes any awards of stock options, incentive and deferred compensation benefits.
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007, the Compensation Committee met 1 time. A copy of the Compensation Committee charter can be found on the Companys website at www.gryphongold.com.
Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee
The Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee is comprised of Richard Hughes, Don Gentry and Don Ranta. Mr. Hughes and Mr. Gentry are independent directors (under section 121A of the American Stock Exchange Company Guide). The Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee is responsible for developing Gryphon Golds approach to corporate governance issues and compliance with governance rules. The Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee is also mandated to plan for the succession of Gryphon Gold, including recommending director candidates, review of board procedures, size and organization, and monitoring of senior management with respect to governance issues. The committee is responsible for the development and implementation of corporate communications to ensure the integrity of Gryphon Golds internal control and management information systems. The purview of the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee also includes the administration of the boards relationship with the management of Gryphon Gold, monitoring the quality and effectiveness of Gryphon Golds corporate governance system and ensuring the effectiveness and integrity of Gryphon Golds communication and reporting to shareholders and the public generally.
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Shareholder nominees are subject to the same consideration as nominees selected by the Committee or the Board. The Committee does not have a set policy for whether or how shareholders are to recommend nominees for consideration by the Board. No shareholder or shareholders holding 5% or more of the Companys outstanding stock, either individually or in aggregate, recommended a nominee for election to the Board.
All of the Nominees included on the proxy card accompanying this proxy statement were nominated by the Nominating Committee and were recommended by the Companys current board of directors.
During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007, the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee met 1 time. A copy of the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee charter is available on the Companys website at www.gryphongold.com.
Project Development, Environmental & Sustainability Committee
The Project Development, Environmental & Sustainability Committee is comprised of Don Gentry, Don Ranta and Tony Ker. The committee is to review and provide technical and commercial guidance for major project development plans, ensure management has appropriate systems in place to plan, implement and track performance of project development. The Committee shall establish environmental policy, monitor compliance and audit our performance relative to policy. The Committee shall establish health and safety policies monitor compliance and audit our practices and actions. The Committee shall establish policy for involving communities of interest in the design and implementation of project development towards sustainable mining development.
Director Compensation
Name |
Fees Earned or Paid in Cash ($) |
Stock Awards ($) |
Option Awards ($) |
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation ($) |
Non-Qualified Compensation Earnings ($) |
All Other Compensation ($) |
Total ($) | |||
Donald Gentry |
6,750 |
52,287 |
(1) |
113,250 |
(2) |
172,287 | ||||
Rohan Hazelton |
3,350 |
52,287 |
(3) |
113,250 |
(4) |
168,887 | ||||
Chris Herald |
4,500 |
- |
64,710 |
(5) |
69,210 | |||||
Richard Hughes |
2,500 |
52,287 |
(6) |
64,710 |
(7) |
119,497 | ||||
Donald Ranta |
- |
34,858 |
(8) |
129,430 |
(9) |
150,254 |
(10) |
314,542 |
(1)
50,000 Restricted Stock Units Vest on July 10, 2008; 25,000 Restricted Stock Units Vest on a quarterly basis commencing April 10, 2007.
(2)
175,000 Stock Options 100% Vests on April 4, 2007, Expire April 4, 2012. Exercise Price Cdn$1.37 per share
(3)
50,000 Restricted Stock Units Vest on July 10, 2008; 25,000 Restricted Stock Units Vest on a quarterly basis commencing April 10, 2007.
(4)
175,000 Stock Options 100% Vests on April 4, 2007, Expire April 4, 2012. Exercise Price Cdn$1.37 per share
(5)
100,000 Stock Options 100% Vests on April 4, 2007, Expire April 4, 2012. Exercise Price Cdn$1.37 per share
(6)
50,000 Restricted Stock Units Vest on July 10, 2008; 25,000 Restricted Stock Units Vest on a quarterly basis commencing April 10, 2007.
(7)
100,000 Stock Options 100% Vests on April 4, 2007, Expire April 4, 2012. Exercise Price Cdn$1.37 per share
(8)
50,000 Restricted Stock Units Vest on July 10, 2008
(9)
200,000 Stock Options 100% Vests on April 4, 2007, Expire April 4, 2012. Exercise Price Cdn$1.37 per share
(10)
Consulting Fees paid
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Beginning January 2007, independent board members who are not employed by us in any capacity other than as a director will be compensated for their services as follows:
•
A grant of 25,000 Restricted Stock Units that vest at a rate of 6,250 units each calendar quarter during 2007 and 50,000 units that will vest July 10, 2008.
•
No cash compensation for attendance of any meeting.
•
Any expenses, travel, administrative, telephone or other costs associated with a Board members fulfilling his or her duties as a Board member will be reimbursed by Gryphon Gold.
Beginning January 2007, non-independent board members will be compensated for their services as follows:
•
A grant of 50,000 Restricted Stock Units that will vest July 10, 2008.
•
No cash compensation for attendance of any meeting.
•
Any expenses, travel, administrative, telephone or other costs associated with a Board members fulfilling his or her duties as a Board member will be reimbursed by Gryphon Gold.
Beginning in July 2005 and until January 2007, independent board members who were not employed by us in any capacity other than as a director were compensated for their services as follows:
•
For any Board or Committee meeting not requiring travel, such as a telephone conference call a meeting fee of $250.
•
For any fully constituted meeting of the Board or a Committee requiring travel of over four hours in aggregate a meeting fee of $1,000.
•
Any expenses, travel, administrative, telephone or other costs associated with a Board members fulfilling his or her duties as a Board member will be reimbursed by Gryphon Gold.
Director Compensation Agreements
Gryphon Gold is a party to employment contracts for each of Albert Matter and Tony Ker. Pursuant to those agreements they are entitled to compensation for termination of their employment in certain circumstances, including termination without cause and change of control. The employment agreements provide for the payment of compensation that will be triggered by a termination of the executive officers employment by either Gryphon Gold or the executive officer following a change of control of Gryphon Gold, or by Gryphon Gold at any time, other than for cause. In such event, each officer will be entitled to receive an amount equal to one years annual salary plus bonus (equal to the amount of bonus in the prior year) earned in the year of change of control, and existing benefits for a period of 12 months. The agreements with Albert Matter and Tony Ker include limited non-competition and non-solicitation covenants for a period of 12 months following termination.
Mr. Ranta is a party to a consulting agreement under which he is paid on a per diem basis and pursuant to which he is entitled to compensation for termination of his agreement in certain circumstances, including termination without cause and change of control.
Except as described above, and the payment of directors fees, there are no service contracts of any director of Gryphon Gold and there is no arrangement or agreement made or proposed to be made between Gryphon Gold and any of its directors pursuant to which a payment or other benefit is to be made or given by way of compensation in the event of that directors resignation, retirement or other termination of employment, or in the event of a change of control of Gryphon Gold or a change in the directors responsibilities following such change in control.
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OTHER GOVERNANCE MATTERS
Code of Conduct
We adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to all of our directors, officers and employees. The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics summarizes the legal, ethical and regulatory standards that we must follow and will serve as a reminder to our directors, officers and employees, of the seriousness of that commitment. Compliance with this code and high standards of business conduct is mandatory for each of our employees.
The Code of Business Conduct and Ethics was filed with the SEC on February 10, 2006 as exhibit 14.1(2) to Form 10-QSB quarterly report for the quarter ending December 31, 2005. Further information and a copy of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is available on our website at www.gryphongold.com. Any future violations of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics will be reported on our website at www.gryphongold.com.
Compensation Interlocks and Insider Participation
There were no compensation committee or board interlocks among the members of our Board.
Legal Proceedings
Except as provided below, neither we nor any of our property, including the Borealis Property, are currently subject to any material legal proceedings or other regulatory proceedings, and to our knowledge no such proceedings are contemplated.
On September 16, 2005, our subsidiary, Borealis Mining Company, was named as a co-defendant in an ongoing civil action pending in the United States District Court for the District of Nevada, entitled United States v. Walker River Irrigation District (Court Doc. No. In Equity C-125, Subfile C-125-B). The action seeks to determine the existence and extent of water rights held by the federal government in the Walker River drainage area for use on federally reserved lands such as Indian reservations, National Forests, military reservations, and the like. The suit does not dispute nor seek to invalidate any existing water rights (including ours); rather, it seeks to determine the extent and priority of the federal governments water rights. On May 27, 2003, the Court stayed all proceedings to allow the United States, the State of Nevada, the State of California, the Walker River Paiute Tribe, the Walker River Irrigation District, Mono County, California, Lyon County, Nevada, Mineral County, Nevada and the Walker Lake Working Group to attempt to mediate a settlement. Borealis Mining Company was named as one of several hundred co-defendants in this action because it owns water rights within a portion of the Walker River drainage area in Nevada, which were granted under a permit on September 16, 2005. We, like most private water right owners, do not intend to participate in the merits of the lawsuit. We do not believe that this civil action, which will determine the extent and priority of federally reserved water rights in the area, will have any effect on our potential business operations as we currently have permits to access water from two sites for our Borealis Property, one of which is not subject to this action and either of which, individually, would provide a sufficient water supply for our potential operations.
On January 18, 2007, the Company was served with a motion to compel arbitration regarding the termination of its former Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Allen Gordon pursuant to his executive compensation agreement (ECA). Mr. Gordon claimed breach of contract under his ECA by failing to make severance payments of $228,511. A comprehensive settlement agreement was reached on April 19, 2007 that included a one time payment to Mr. Gordon of $75,000 and his resignation from the Board of Directors
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Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance
Section 16(a) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 requires any person who is our Director or executive officer or who beneficially holds more than 10% of any class of our securities which have been registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission, to file reports of initial ownership and changes in ownership with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These persons are also required under the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) reports they file.
To our knowledge, based solely on our review of the copies of the Section 16(a) reports furnished to us, all Section 16(a) filing requirements applicable to our Directors, executive officers and holders of more than 10% of any class of our registered securities were timely complied with during the year ended March 31, 2007.
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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The following table sets forth compensation paid to each of the individuals who served as our Chief Executive Officer and our other most highly compensated executive officers (the named executive officers) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007.
On April 4, 2006, the Board authorized salary adjustments for directors, officers, and employees. These adjustments are indicated in the compensation table below. Further, the Board proposed stock grants to certain directors and executives to provide additional compensation, such stock grants would be part of a Stock Grant and Options Plan to be approved at the next annual general meeting of stockholders.
Summary Compensation Table
Name and |
Year |
Salary |
Bonus |
Stock $ |
Options Awards $ |
Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation $ |
Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Earnings $ |
All Other Compensation |
Total |
Tony Ker, President & CEO |
2007 |
174,442(2) |
18,188 |
87,145(4) |
166,570 |
32,380(5) |
478,725 | ||
Michael Longinotti, CFO |
2007 |
117,175 |
18,188 |
63,954 |
198,920 |
398,237 | |||
Albert Matter, Chairman |
2007 |
179,516(3) |
18,188 |
87,145(4) |
166,570 |
35,790(5) |
487,209 | ||
Allen Gordon, Former President & COO (1) |
2007 |
130,000 |
- |
145,600 |
112,500(5)(6) |
388,100 | |||
Steve Craig, VP Exploration |
2007 |
125,000 |
- |
17,429 |
50,930 |
20,000(7) |
213,359 |
(1)
Vacated President and Chief Operating Officer role November 30, 2006
(2)
Effective April 2006 annual salary adjusted to Cdn$213,000, on January 1, 2007 reduced to Cdn$150,000
(3)
Effective April 2006 annual salary adjusted to Cdn$220,600, on January 1, 2007 reduced to Cdn$150,000.
(4)
Grant of 75,000 Restricted Stock Units in lieu of reduced salary vesting quarterly commencing April 1, 2007; 50,000 Restricted Stock Units Vest on July 10, 2008.
(5)
Retro pay for fiscal year 2006.
(6)
Severance payment of $75,000.
(7)
Relocation payment.
Executive Compensation Agreements and Summary of Executive Compensation
Report on Executive Compensation
During the year ended March 31, 2007, the Companys Compensation Committee was responsible for establishing compensation policy and administering the compensation programs of our executive officers.
The amount of compensation paid by the Company to each of our officers and the terms of those persons employment is determined solely by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee evaluates past performance and considers future incentive and retention in considering the appropriate compensation for the Companys officers. The Company believes that the compensation paid to the Companys directors and officers is fair to the Company.
Our Compensation Committee believes that the use of direct stock awards is at times appropriate for employees, and in the future intends to use direct stock awards to reward outstanding service or to attract and retain individuals with exceptional talent and credentials. The use of stock options and other awards is intended to strengthen the alignment of interests of executive officers and other key employees with those of our stockholders.
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Executive Compensation Agreements
Gryphon Gold is a party to employment contracts for Albert Matter, Tony Ker, Michael Longinotti, Steven Craig and Rajwant Kang. Pursuant to those agreements they are entitled to compensation for termination of their employment in certain circumstances, including termination without cause and change of control. The employment agreements provide for the payment of compensation that will be triggered by a termination of the executive officers employment by either Gryphon Gold or the executive officer following a change of control of Gryphon Gold, or by Gryphon Gold at any time, other than for cause. In such event, Messrs Matter, Ker, Longinotti, and Craig will be entitled to receive an amount equal to one years annual salary plus bonus (equal to the amount of bonus in the prior year) earned in the year of change of control, and existing benefits for a period of 12 months. Mr. Kang will be entitled to receive an amount equal to one-half years annual salary plus bonus (equal to the amount of bonus in the prior year) earned in the year of change of control, and existing benefits for a period of 6 months. The agreements with Albert Matter and Tony Ker include limited non-competition and non-solicitation covenants for a period of 12 months following termination.
Except as described above, and the payment of directors fees, there are no service contracts of any officer of Gryphon Gold and there is no arrangement or agreement made or proposed to be made between Gryphon Gold and any of its named executive officers pursuant to which a payment or other benefit is to be made or given by way of compensation in the event of that officers resignation, retirement or other termination of employment, or in the event of a change of control of Gryphon Gold or a change in the named executive officers responsibilities following such change in control.
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Outstanding Equity Awards At Fiscal Year-End
The following table sets forth the stock options granted to our named executive officers as of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007. No stock appreciation rights were awarded.
Option Awards |
Stock Awards | ||||||||
Name |
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (1) (#) Exercisable |
Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Unexercisable |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Securities Unexercised Unearned Options (#) |
Option Exercise Price ($) |
Option Expiration Date |
Number of Shares or Units of Stock that have not Vested (#) |
Market Value of Shares or Units of Stock that have not Vested ($) |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Securities Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That have not Vested (#) |
Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights that Have not Vested ($) |
Tony Ker(1) |
325,000 |
-- |
0.75 |
29-Mar-10 |
50,000 |
46,336 |
|||
President and Chief Executive Officer |
-- |
200,000 |
Cdn$1.37 |
4-Apr-12 |
75,000 |
69,505 |
|||
50,000 |
50,000 |
Cdn$0.80 |
25-Feb-12 |
||||||
Michael Longinotti(2) |
250,000 |
-- |
Cdn$1.37 |
18-Apr-12 |
|||||
Chief Financial Officer |
50,000 |
50,000 |
Cdn$0.80 |
25-Feb-12 |
|||||
Albert Matter(3) |
350,000 |
-- |
0.75 |
29-Mar-10 |
50,000 |
46,336 |
|||
Chairman |
-- |
200,000 |
Cdn$1.37 |
4-Apr-12 |
75,000 |
69,505 |
|||
50,000 |
50,000 |
Cdn$0.80 |
25-Feb-12 |
||||||
Steve Craig(4) |
54,000 |
36,000 |
Cdn$1.15 |
5-Jan-11 |
25,000 |
23,168 |
|||
VP Exploration |
36,000 |
24,000 |
Cdn$1.37 |
13-Mar-11 |
|||||
-- |
50,000 |
Cdn$1.37 |
4-Apr-12 |
||||||
25,000 |
25,000 |
Cdn$0.80 |
25-Feb-12 |
||||||
Allen Gordon (5) |
350,000 |
-- |
0.75 |
13-Jun-07 |
|||||
Former President and Chief Operating Officer |
-- |
225,000 |
Cdn$1.37 |
13-Jun-07 |
|||||
Rajwant Kang |
30,000 |
45,000 |
Cdn$1.37 |
4-Apr-11 |
|||||
Controller, Secretary, and Treasurer |
37,500 |
-- |
Cdn$0.80 |
26-Feb-12 |
(1)
200,000 options vest 100% April 4, 2007; 50,000 options vest 100% February 26, 2008. Units of stock: 50,000 vest 100% July 10, 2008; 75,000 vest 25% quarterly commencing April 1, 2007.
(2)
50,000 options vest 100% February 26, 2008.
(3)
200,000 options vest 100% April 4, 2007; 50,000 options vest 100% February 26, 2008. Units of stock: 50,000 vest 100% July 10, 2008; 75,000 vest 25% quarterly commencing April 1, 2007.
(4)
36,000 options vest 50% July 5, 2007, 50% January 5, 2008: 24,000 options vest 50% September 13, 2007, 50% March 13, 2008: 50,000 options vest 100% April 4, 2007: 25,000 options vest 100% February 26, 2008. Units of stock: 25,000 vest 50% July 10, 2007, 50% January 10, 2008.
(5)
Vacated President and COO role November 30, 2006; 225,000 vest 100% April 4, 2007.
(6) 45,000 options vest April 4 2007 15,000, October 4, 2007 15,000, April 4 2008 15,000; 37,500 options to vest 100% February 26, 2008.
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Retirement, Resignation or Termination Plans
We sponsor no plan, whether written or verbal, that would provide compensation or benefits of any type to an executive upon retirement, or any plan that would provide payment for retirement, resignation, or termination as a result of a change in control of our Company or as a result of a change in the responsibilities of an executive following a change in control of our Company.
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EQUITY COMPENSATION PLANS
We have two equity compensation plans: the 2005 Stock Option Plan and the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan. Each plan has been approved by our shareholders. Amendments to the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan will be presented to our shareholders for approval at the Annual Meeting.
Securities Authorized for Issuance
On March 29, 2005, our board of directors adopted a stock option plan which was approved by our shareholders on May 13, 2005. As of March 31, 2007 we had granted 3,000,000 stock options, of which 200,000 were forfeited and 107,500 were exercised, pursuant to the terms of our 2005 stock option plan with expiry dates to 2011. We may only issue up to 3,000,000 shares of common stock under the terms of the 2005 stock option plan.
On April 4, 2006 (amended July 24, 2006), the Board of Directors approved the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan, which increased the number of reserved shares of common stock for issuance to employees, officers, directors, consultants and advisors, from 3,000,000 to 7,000,000 shares. The 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan authorizes the Company to grant 3,000,000 options and 1,000,000 restricted stock units. As of March 31, 2007 we had granted 2,650,000 stock options pursuant to the terms of our omnibus incentive plan as described below with expiry dates to 2012, of which 110,000 were forfeited; 673,000 restricted stock units had been granted as of March 31, 2007 pursuant to the terms of our omnibus incentive plan. The 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan was ratified by the shareholders at the companys annual general meeting on September 12, 2006, along with all options previously granted thereunder, pending such ratification.
We have no equity compensation plans in place that have not been approved by our shareholders, but amendments and proposed plans will be presented to shareholders for approval at the annual general meeting. The table below shows securities issued under our equity compensation plans as of July 20, 2007.
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants, and rights (a) |
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options,
warrants, and rights |
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance
under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a)) | ||||
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders(1) |
5,263,750 |
$0.91 |
942,000(2) | |||
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders |
-- |
-- |
-- | |||
TOTAL |
5,263,750 |
-- |
942,000 | |||
|
(1) |
Consists of 2,377,500 outstanding options granted from the Stock Option Plan, 2,375,000 outstanding options granted from the Omnibus Incentive Plan, and 511,250 restricted stock units granted under the Omnibus Incentive Plan. | ||||
(2) |
Consists of 625,000 options and 317,000 restricted stock units remaining under the Omnibus Incentive Plan. | |||||
* |
Based on the March 31, 2007 exchange rate of Cdn$1.1546 equals US$1 |
The 2005 Stock Option Plan and the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan are described in further detail below.
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2005 Stock Option Plan
Our 2005 Stock Option Plan provides that the total number of shares of common stock which may be issued pursuant to the 2005 Stock Option Plan shall not exceed 3,000,000 shares of common stock.
The 2005 Stock Option Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee, and has full and final authority with respect to the granting of options there under. Options may be granted under the 2005 Stock Option Plan to such directors, officers, employees or consultants of Gryphon Gold and its subsidiaries as the Compensation Committee may from time to time designate (referred to as a participant). Each option will generally entitle a participant to purchase one share of common stock during the term of the option upon payment of the exercise price. The exercise price of any options granted under the 2005 Stock Option Plan shall be determined by the Compensation Committee and may not be less than the market price of our common stock on the date of grant of the options (calculated in accordance with the rules of the Toronto Stock Exchange as the volume weighted average trading price for the five trading days preceding the date of grant). Gryphon Gold may provide financial assistance to eligible persons to purchase shares of common stock under the 2005 Stock Option Plan, subject to applicable law and the rules and policies of any securities regulatory authority or stock exchange with jurisdiction over the Corporation or a trade in its securities. Any financial assistance so provided will be repayable with full recourse and the term of any such financing shall not exceed the term of the option to which the financing applies.
The term of any options granted shall be determined by the Compensation Committee at the time of the grant but the term of any options granted under the 2005 Stock Option Plan shall not exceed ten years. If desired by the Compensation Committee, options granted under the 2005 Stock Option Plan may be subject to vesting provisions. Options granted under the 2005 Stock Option Plan are not transferable or assignable other than by will or otherwise by operation of law. In the event of death or disability of an option holder, options granted under the 2005 Stock Option Plan expire one year from the death or disability of the option holder.
Certain restrictions contained in the 2005 Stock Option Plan include:
the number of shares of common stock which may be issued pursuant to the 2005 Stock Option Plan (or any other employee-related plan or options for service) to any one person may not exceed 5% of all the common shares issued and outstanding on a non-diluted basis from time to time; and
the number of shares of common stock which may be issued pursuant to the 2005 Stock Option Plan (or any other employee-related plan or options for services) to insiders (as defined in the rules of the Toronto Stock Exchange to include generally directors, senior officers of Gryphon Gold or its subsidiaries or shareholders who own more than 10% of our common stock) during any twelve month period may not exceed 10% of the common stock issued and outstanding on a non-diluted basis from time to time (unless approval of disinterested shareholders has been obtained in accordance with the rules of the Toronto Stock Exchange).
the number of shares of common stock which may be reserved for issuance in respect of options granted to insiders pursuant to the 2005 Stock Option Plan (or any other employee-related plan or options for service) may not exceed 10% of the common stock issued and outstanding on a non-diluted basis from time to time unless approval of disinterested shareholders has been obtained in accordance with the rules of the Toronto Stock Exchange).
Gryphon Golds board of directors may at any time terminate or amend the 2005 Stock Option Plan in any respect, provided however, that the board may not, without the approval of the shareholders, amend the 2005 Stock Option Plan or any option granted thereunder in any manner that requires shareholder approval under applicable law or the rules and policies of any stock exchange or quotation system upon which the common shares are listed or quoted.
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2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan
The Omnibus Plan authorizes 3,000,000 shares of common stock and 1,000,000 shares of restricted stock for issuance to officers, directors, employees and consultants. The Board has approved an increase in the number of shares reserved for issuance in respect of stock options from 3,000,000 to 4,500,000. The amendment to the Omnibus Plan is subject to shareholder approval at the Annual Meeting, see Proposal 3 below. For a description of the Omnibus Plan see below.
Summary of Outstanding Options and Awards
The following table sets out the total number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the 2005 Stock Option Plan and the Omnibus Incentive Plan in respect of outstanding options and awards and in respect of options and awards available for issuance as of July 23, 2007.
Number of Shares |
% of Outstanding Shares(1) | |
Options outstanding under the 2005 Stock Option Plan |
2,377,500 |
5.00% |
Options outstanding under the Omnibus Incentive Plan |
2,375,000 |
5.00% |
Awards outstanding under the Omnibus Incentive Plan |
511,250 |
1.07% |
Options available for issuance under the Omnibus Incentive Plan(2) |
625,000(3) |
1.32% |
Awards available for issuance under the Omnibus Incentive Plan |
317,000(4) |
** |
**- denotes percentage less than 1%
(1) Calculated based on 47,521,395 shares outstanding as of July 23, 2007.
(2) No further options will be granted under the 2005 Stock Option Plan.
(3) If the increase to the number of shares available for issuance under the Omnibus Incentive Plan in respect of stock options from 3,000,000 to 4,500,000 is approved (see Proposal 3), the number of shares reserved in respect of stock options available under the Omnibus Incentive Plan will be 2,125,000, representing 4.5% of the outstanding shares.
(4) An aggregate of [171,750] shares have been issued upon exercise of Awards previously granted under the Omnibus Incentive Plan.
25
SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The following tables set forth information as of July 23, 2007 regarding the ownership of our common stock by:
each person who is known by us to own more than 5% of our shares of common stock; and
each named executive officer, each director and all of our directors and executive officers as a group.
The number of shares beneficially owned and the percentage of shares beneficially owned are based on 47,521,395 shares of common stock outstanding as of July 23, 2007.
For the purposes of the information provided below, shares subject to options and warrants that are exercisable within 60 days following July 23, 2007 are deemed to be outstanding and beneficially owned by the holder for the purpose of computing the number of shares and percentage ownership of that holder but are not deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage ownership of any other person. Except as indicated in the footnotes to these tables, and as affected by applicable community property laws, all persons listed have sole voting and investment power for all shares shown as beneficially owned by them.
|
As of July 23, 2007 | |
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner(1) |
Shares |
Percent |
Allen Gordon |
2,250,000 |
4.73% |
390 Union Blvd., Suite 360 Lakewood, CO 80228 |
||
Albert Matter |
2,614,750(3) |
5.44%(3) |
Suite 810, 1130 West Pender Street Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4 |
|
|
Standard Bank plc |
3,426,336 |
7.21% |
25 Dowgate Hill, Cannon Bridge House
London, United Kingdom EC4R 2SB |
|
|
Geologic Resource Fund |
7,000,000(4) |
13.73%(4) |
|
|
|
Other Directors and Officers as a group (2) |
6,736,300(5) |
13.52%(5) |
__________
(1)
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and includes voting and investment power with respect to shares. Unless otherwise indicated, the persons named in this table have sole voting and sole investment control with respect to all shares beneficially owned. Figures shown are on a non-diluted basis.
(2)
Figure shown represents the sum of shares owned or controlled individually by directors and officers (other than Mr. Matter and Mr. Gordon) and includes ownership by spouses and minor children (250,000 shares) where it may be considered that direction and control over these shares rests with the director or officer. Mr. Christopher Heralds sum of shares and warrants are included in this figure although he resigned from the Board of Directors on October 10, 2006.
(3)
Includes 600,000 shares acquirable upon exercise of vested stock options and 125,000 restricted stock units. Although only 18,750 restricted stock units have vested all 125,000 were reported to SEC as beneficially owned.
(4)
Geologic Resource Fund LP of 535 Boylston Street, Boston MA currently holds 980,000 shares and 980,000 shares upon exercise of warrants and Geologic Resource Fund LTD of Harbour Centre, Noah Church Street, George Town, Grand Cayman holds 2,520,000 shares and 2,520,000 shares upon exercise of warrants. George Ireland (Chief Investment Officer for both funds) holds sole voting power.
(5)
Includes 2,760,000 shares acquirable upon exercise of vested stock options. This figure also includes 533,000 granted restricted stock units of which 387,500 have not vested but have been recorded to the SEC as full owned non-derivative securities.
26
Security Ownership of Management
|
As of July 23, 2007 | |
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner(1) |
Shares |
Percent |
Allen Gordon |
2,250,000(2) |
4.73%(2) |
Former Director, President, and Chief Operating Officer 32509 El Diente Court Evergreen, CO 80439 |
|
|
Albert Matter |
2,614,750(3) |
5.44%(3) |
Executive Chairman, Director Suite 810, 1130 West Pender Street Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4 |
|
|
Anthony Ker |
1,825,000(4) |
3.62%(4) |
Director, President, Chief Executive Officer Suite 810, 1130 West Pender Street Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4 |
|
|
Michael Longinotti |
483,000(5) |
1.01%(5) |
Chief Financial Officer Suite 810, 1130 West Pender Street Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4 |
|
|
Rajwant Kang |
161,300(6) |
0.34%(6) |
Corporate Controller, Secretary, Treasurer Suite 810, 1130 West Pender Street
Vancouver, BC V6E 4A4 |
|
|
All directors and executive officers as a group (10 persons) |
11,601,050(7) |
22.92%(7) |
__________
(1)
Beneficial ownership is determined in accordance with the rules of the SEC and includes voting and investment power with respect to shares. Unless otherwise indicated, the persons named in this table have sole voting and sole investment control with respect to all shares beneficially owned.
(2)
Allen Gordon was terminated as President and COO of the company on November 30, 2006 but remains as a director on the board.
(3)
Includes vested options exercisable to acquire 600,000 shares of common stock and 125,000 restricted stock units
(4)
Includes vested options exercisable to acquire 575,000 shares of common stock and 125,000 restricted stock units. Tony Ker was appointed Chief Executive Officer September 12, 2006 and appointed President January 10, 2007.
(5)
Includes vested options exercisable to acquire 300,000 shares of common stock.
(6)
Includes vested options exercisable to acquire 82,500 shares of common stock.
(7)
Includes vested options exercisable to acquire 3,935,000 shares of common stock, 64,500 share upon the exercise of warrants and 658,000 restricted stock units.
We have no knowledge of any arrangements, including any pledge by any person of our securities, the operation of which may at a subsequent date result in a change in our control.
We are not, to the best of our knowledge, directly or indirectly owned or controlled by another corporation or foreign government.
As of July 23, 2007, we had approximately 1783 shareholders of record of our common stock.
27
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Except for the transactions described below, none of our directors, senior officers or principal shareholders, nor any associate or affiliate of the foregoing have any interest, direct or indirect, in any transaction, from April 23, 2003 (date of inception) to the date of this report, or in any proposed transactions, in which such person had or is to have a direct or indirect material interest.
Purchases Of Securities
During and subsequent to the fiscal year ending March 31, 2007, officers, directors and 10% shareholders of Gryphon Gold purchased securities of Gryphon Gold on the following terms:
Officer, Director, 10% Shareholder |
Type of Security |
Price of Security |
Date of Purchase |
Michael Longinotti |
100,000 units (1) |
Cdn $1.35 per unit |
June 10, 2006 |
Rajwant Kang |
4,800 units |
Cdn $2.07 per unit |
April 27, 2006 |
Rajwant Kang |
5,000 units |
Cdn $1.65 per unit |
May 31, 2006 |
Rajwant Kang |
29,000 units (1) |
Cdn $1.35 per unit |
June 10, 2006 |
Rajwant Kang |
9,000 units |
Cdn $1.46 per unit |
July 21, 2006 |
Rajwant Kang |
6,000 units |
Cdn $1.20 per unit |
Oct 5, 2006 |
Anthony Ker |
25,000 units |
Cdn $1.85 per unit |
May 8, 2006 |
Donald Gentry |
37,500 units |
$0.75 per unit |
April 17, 2006 |
Geologic Resource Fund |
3,500,000 units (2) |
Cdn $0.90 per unit |
Feb 9, 2007 |
__________
(1)Each unit consisted of one share of common stock and one-half of one share purchase warrant, each whole warrant exercisable to acquire one share of common stock at Cdn$1.82.
(2)Each unit consisted of one share of common stsock and one of one share purchase warrant, each whole warrant exercisable to acquire one share of common stock at Cdn$1.10 until first anniversary date (Feb 8, 2008) and exercisable at Cdn$1.35 from Feb 9, 2008 to Feb 9, 2009.
Other than compensatory arrangements described under Executive Compensation and the transactions described above, we have had no other transactions, directly or indirectly, during the past fiscal year with our directors, senior officers or principal shareholders, or any of their associates or affiliates in which they had or have a direct or indirect material interest.
28
PROPOSAL 2 RATIFICATION OF
THE OPTION SHARE INCREASE
What am I voting on?
The Companys Board of Directors has approved an increase in the number of shares authorized for issuance under the Companys 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan.
The Board determined that is was in the best interests of the Company and the stockholders for the Company to increase the number of shares available for issuance under the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan for the issuance of options under the plan, to reflect an increase in the number of common shares issued and outstanding. Currently, the Companys two option plans as approved by the shareholders provide for the issuance of up to 7,000,000 common sharesthe 2005 Stock Option Plan provides for 3,000,000 shares of common stock for stock options and the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan provides for the issuance of 3,000,000 shares of common stock for stock options and 1,000,000 shares for restricted stock units.
Based on 47,521,395 common shares issued and outstanding as of July 23, 2007, the Board has recommended an increase of 1,500,000 shares of common stock to the shares available for issuance of options under the 2006 Omnibus Incentive Plan. Following the amendment, the Omnibus Plan will provide for 4,500,000 shares of common stock for stock options and 1,000,000 shares of common stock for restricted stock units.
This proposal is to ratify the share increase as approved by the Board.
Who is eligible to participate in the Plan?
Any employee, officer, director, consultant, independent contractor, or director of or providing services to the Company or any parent, affiliate, or subsidiary of the Company is eligible to be designated a participant in the Plan.
Currently, this includes, but is not limited to, the following directors and executives:
Albert J. Matter, Chairman of the Board and Director;
Donald E. Ranta, Director;
Richard W. Hughes, Director;
Rohan Hazelton, Director;
Donald W. Gentry, Director;
Anthony (Tony) D.J. Ker, President and Chief Executive Officer and Director;
Michael K. Longinotti, Chief Financial Officer;
Steve Craig, Vice President of Exploration;
Rajwant Kang, Secretary, Treasurer, and Controller
In total there are approximately 13 officers, directors, and employees eligible under the Plan.
What benefit amounts will be received under the Plan?
Benefit amounts will be determined by the Committee. Currently, the Board has not authorized the issuance of options covered by the share increase. The following is a summary of the current options issued under the Companys equity compensation plans:
29
Omnibus Incentive Plan
The following is a summary of important Omnibus Plan provisions. It is not a comprehensive discussion of all of the terms and conditions of the Omnibus Plan. The information provided below may be modified or altered by some provisions in the Omnibus Plan. A copy of the Omnibus Incentive Plan is available under the Companys profile at www.sedar.com or www.sec.gov, as an attachment to last years Proxy Statement dated August 18, 2006.
Purpose
The purpose of the Omnibus Plan is to promote the interests
of the Company and its stockholders by aiding the Company in attracting and
retaining employees, officers, consultants, independent contractors and
directors capable of assuring the future success of the Company, to offer such
persons incentives to put forth maximum efforts for the success of the Companys
business and to afford such persons an opportunity to acquire a proprietary
interest in the Company.
Persons Eligible
Any employee, officer, director, consultant, independent contractor, or director of or providing services to the Company or any parent, affiliate, or subsidiary of the Company is eligible to designated a participant in the Omnibus Plan. However, stock option grants may only be granted to full- or part-time employees, officers, or directors of the Company or one of its subsidiaries.
Administration
The Omnibus Plan is administered by the Companys
Compensation Committee, or such other committee as the Board may assign
administrative responsibility in the best interests of the Company. The
administering committee (the Committee) has the power to: (i) designate
Omnibus Plan participants; (ii) determine the type or types of awards to be
granted to participants under the Omnibus Plan; (iii) determine the number of
shares to be covered by each award; (iv) determine the terms and conditions of
any award or award agreement; (v) amend the terms and conditions of any award or
award agreement and accelerate the exercisability of any option or waive any
restrictions relating to any award; (vi) determine whether and to what extent,
and under what circumstances, awards may be exercised in cash, shares of the
Company, promissory notes (which dont conflict with the provisions of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act), other securities, or other property, or may be canceled,
forfeited, or suspended; (vii) interpret and administer the Omnibus Plan and any
awards or award agreements thereunder; (viii) establish, amend, suspend, or
waive such rules and regulations and appoint such agents as it deems appropriate
to administer the Omnibus Plan; (ix) made any determination with respect to the
termination of options and awards upon termination or cessation of employment of
a Participant, upon a director ceasing to serve on the board of directors of the
Company or upon any person ceasing to provide services to the Company; (x) make
any other determination or take any other action that the Committee deems
necessary or desirable to the administration of the Omnibus Plan.
Shares Available under the Omnibus Plan
The aggregate number of shares available to be issued under the Omnibus Plan will be 5,500,000 shares of common stock (subject to approval of Option Share Increase), which represents 11.6% of the issued and outstanding shares. Of the aggregate total, the number of shares available for granting incentive stock options will be 4,500,000 and the number of shares available for restricted stock grants and restricted stock units is 1,000,000both subject to adjustment under the Omnibus Plan's anti-dilution provisions. The number of shares available for issuance in respect of awards (other than incentive stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units), may not exceed the difference between 5,500,000 and the aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance in respect of incentive stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units, less the number of shares issued upon exercise of such incentive stock options, restricted stock and restricted stock units.
30
Limitations on Awards to Insiders
Awards in any form to Company insiders (generally, directors, officers, and 10% shareholders) are limited under the Omnibus Plan. No award shall be granted under the Omnibus Plan which may result in the aggregate number of common shares of the Company issued to insiders as a group pursuant to the terms of awards previously granted within any one-year period, and issuable to insiders, at any time under the Omnibus Plan and any other security based compensation arrangement of the Company exceeding 10% of the common shares of the Company issued and outstanding at the relevant time. In addition, no award may be granted under the Omnibus Plan which may result in the aggregate number of common shares issuable to any insider at any time under the Omnibus Plan or any other security based compensation plan arrangement of the Company exceeding 5% of the common shares of the Company issued and outstanding at the relevant time.
Options
The exercise price of options granted under the Omnibus Plan
is determined by the Committee provided that the exercise price may not be less
than 100% of the fair market value of a share on the date of the grant.
The term of each option shall be fixed by the Committee at the time of the grant, but may not exceed 10 years. The Committee also determines the vesting schedule of options and the method in which payment of the exercise price may be made.
The aggregate fair market value of incentive stock options granted under the Omnibus Plan which become exercisable by any participant during any calendar year may not exceed $100,000 in aggregate fair market value. Incentive stock options granted under the Omnibus Plan terminate no later than 10 years after the date of grant, except incentive stock options granted to 10% shareholders terminate 5 years after the date of grant. Incentive stock options must have an exercise price of at least 100% of the fair market value, but incentive stock options granted to 10% shareholders will have an exercise price of at least 110% of the fair market value.
Fair market value is defined under the Omnibus Plan to mean fair market value of such property determined by such methods or procedures as shall be established from time to time by the Committee. Notwithstanding the foregoing and unless otherwise determined by the Committee, the Fair market value of a share as of a given date shall be, if the shares are then listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, the volume weighted average trading price of one share as reported on the Toronto Stock Exchange for the five trading days immediately preceding such date.
Stock Appreciation Rights
The Committee is authorized to grant Stock Appreciation Rights to eligible persons subject to the terms of the Omnibus Plan. Each Stock Appreciation Right granted under the Omnibus Plan shall confer on the holder upon exercise the right to receive, as determined by the Committee, cash or a number of Shares equal to the excess of (a) the fair market value of one share on the date of exercise (or, if the Committee shall so determine, at any time during a specified period before or after the date of exercise) over (b) the grant price of the Stock Appreciation Right as determined by the Committee, which grant price shall not be less than 100% of the fair market value of one share on the date of grant of the Stock Appreciation Right.
Options may not be converted into Stock Appreciation Rights, except at the discretion of the Committee which has the power to substitute any award granted under the Omnibus for any other award available under the Omnibus Plan, subject to and pursuant to the terms of the Omnibus Plan.
31
Restricted Stock
The Committee is authorized to grant Restricted Stock to eligible persons under the Omnibus Plan. Shares of Restricted Stock shall be subject to such restrictions as the Committee may impose (including, without limitation, a restriction on or prohibition against the right to receive any dividend or other right or property with respect thereto), which restrictions may lapse separately or in combination at such time or times, in such installments or otherwise as the Committee may deem appropriate.
Restricted Stock Units
The Committee is authorized to grant Restricted Stock Units to eligible persons under the Omnibus Plan. A Restricted Stock Unit award will be subject to a Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement containing such terms and conditions, not inconsistent with the provisions of the Omnibus Plan, as the Committee determines.
Performance Awards
The Committee is authorized to grant Performance Awards to eligible persons subject to the terms of the Omnibus Plan. A Performance Award granted under the Omnibus Plan (i) may be denominated or payable in cash, shares (including, without limitation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units), other securities, other Awards or other property and (ii) shall confer on the holder thereof the right to receive payments, in whole or in part, upon the achievement of such performance goals during such performance periods as the Committee shall establish. Subject to the terms of the Omnibus Plan, the performance goals to be achieved during any performance period, the length of any performance period, the amount of any Performance Award granted, the amount of any payment or transfer to be made pursuant to any Performance Award and any other terms and conditions of any Performance Award shall be determined by the Committee.
Other Stock Grants
The Committee is authorized, subject to the terms of the Omnibus Plan, to grant to eligible persons shares without restrictions thereon as are deemed by the Committee to be consistent with the purpose of the Omnibus Plan.
Forms of Payment under Awards
Subject to the terms of the Omnibus Plan, payments or transfers to be made by the Company or an Affiliate upon the grant, exercise or payment of an Award may be made in such form or forms as the Committee shall determine (including, without limitation, cash, Shares, promissory notes provided, however, that the acceptance of such promissory notes does not conflict with Section 402 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, other securities, other Awards or other property or any combination thereof), and may be made in a single payment or transfer, in installments or on a deferred basis, in each case in accordance with rules and procedures established by the Committee. Such rules and procedures may include, without limitation, provisions for the payment or crediting of reasonable interest on installment or deferred payments or the grant or crediting of Dividend Equivalents with respect to installment or deferred payments. Gryphon Gold may provide financial assistance to eligible persons to purchase shares of common stock under the Incentive Plan, subject to applicable law and the rules and policies of any securities regulatory authority or stock exchange with jurisdiction over the Corporation or a trade in its securities. Any financial assistance so provided will be repayable with full recourse and the term of any such financing shall not exceed the term of the option to which the financing applies.
Limits on Transfer of Awards
No Award (other than Other Stock Grants) and no right under any such Award shall be transferable by a Participant otherwise than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution and the Company is not be required to recognize any attempted assignment of such rights by any Participant; provided, however, that, if so determined by the Committee, a Participant may, in the manner established by the Committee, designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries to exercise the rights of the Participant and receive any property distributable with respect to any Award upon the death of the Participant; provided, further, that, if so determined by the Committee, a Participant may transfer a Non-Qualified Stock Option to any Family Member (as such term is defined in the General Instructions to Form S-8 or successor to such Instructions or such Form) at any time that such Participant holds such Option, provided that the Participant may not receive any consideration for such transfer, the Family Member may not make any subsequent transfers other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution and the Company receives written notice of such transfer, provided, further, that, if so determined by the Committee, and except in the case of an Incentive Stock Option, Awards may be transferable as determined by the Committee. Except as otherwise determined by the Committee (for awards other than an Incentive Stock Option), each Award or right under any such Award is exercisable during the Participants lifetime only by the Participant or, if permissible under applicable law, by the Participants guardian or legal representative. Except as otherwise determined by the Committee (for Awards other than an Incentive Stock Option), no Award or right under any such Award may be pledged, alienated, attached or otherwise encumbered, and any purported pledge, alienation, attachment or other encumbrance thereof is void and unenforceable against the Company or any Affiliate.
32
Term of Awards
Subject to the terms of Omnibus Plan, the term of each Award shall be for such period as may be determined by the Committee. Whether Options, Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) or other Awards terminate on termination of employment is determined by the Committee in the context of each grant. The Committee may adopt policies from time to time in respect of termination provisions on termination of employment. Generally, Options and RSUs terminate upon termination of employment as follows:
(A) |
Upon retirement, the Options and RSUs which have vested at the date of retirement will continue to be exercisable until the original expiry date. |
(B) |
Upon termination of employment or service for any reason that does not involve cause or a breach of a contractual commitment owing to the Company, the Options and RSUs which vested on the date of such termination will continue to be exercisable for a period of 30 days from the termination date, unless extended by the Committee, and lapse immediately thereafter. |
(C) |
Upon termination of employment or service by the Company for cause or a breach of a contractual commitment owing to the Company, the Options and RSUs lapse immediately upon termination. |
(D) |
Upon death or disability, the Options and RSUs may, depending on the individual grant, either become fully exercisable (also referred to as fully vested) at the time of death or disability and continue to be exercisable for a period of 12 months (or longer, but in no event beyond the original expiry date) following death or disability, or only the Options and RSUs which were exercisable (also referred to as vested) within a period of up to 90 days following death or disability continue to be exercisable for a period of 12 months following death or disability (or longer, but in no event beyond the required expiry date). |
Additional Conditions in Connection with Awards Granted to Participants Employed in Canada
Notwithstanding any other provision of the Omnibus Plan, the following additional terms, conditions and restrictions apply to Awards granted to Participants employed in Canada:
Options
(A)
Payment by the Participant of the exercise price with respect to an Option may not be made in Shares.
(B)
Upon the exercise of an Option the sole form in which payment to the Participant may be made by the Company shall be in Shares, unless the Company offers the Participant the right to elect to receive cash or other consideration in lieu of Shares and the Participant, in its sole discretion, so elects.
(C)
The Committee may not cancel an Option and pay to the Participant cash in the amount of the excess of the fair market value of the Shares over the excise price unless the Participant, in its sole discretion, agrees to receive cash in lieu of Shares.
(D)
Tax withholding obligations may not be satisfied by the Participant electing to have the Company withhold Shares otherwise to be delivered upon exercise of an Option or by the Participant delivering Shares to the Company.
(E)
No undertakings shall be given by the Company, any person or partnership non-arms length with the Company or any partnership or trust of which the Company or a non-arms length person is a member or beneficiary, and no agreement shall be entered into by any such person with the Participant, with respect to any Shares held by the Participant, including any agreement or undertaking relating to the redemption, acquisition or cancellation of the Shares or the reduction of the Companys paid-up capital.
33
Restricted Stock Unit Awards
Restricted Stock Unit Awards shall be settled in Shares, unless the Company offers the Participant the right to receive cash in lieu of Shares and the Participant, in its sole discretion, so elects.
Restricted Stock
Participants employed in Canada are not eligible to receive a grant of Restricted Stock pursuant to Section 6(c) of the Omnibus Plan.
Other Awards
With respect to any other Award granted to a Participant employed in Canada, the Committee shall have the right, but not the obligation, to take account of Canadian income tax considerations in determining the terms and conditions of the Award or any other amendment thereto.
Amendment of the Omnibus Plan
Subject to some matters which require shareholder approval (as discussed below), the Board may amend, without shareholder approval, the Omnibus Plan at any time, including amending any of the provisions of the Omnibus Plan relating to:
(A) |
|
The persons who are eligible for the grant of awards; |
(B) |
The authority of the Committee and the Board in respect of the grant of Awards; | |
(C) |
The extension of the term of any award, provided the term of any Option shall not be more than ten years from the date of grant; | |
(D) |
The procedure for the tendering of a notice of exercise of awards and the exercise of awards; | |
(E) |
The adjustment in shares in the event that the authorized capital of the Company as presently constituted is consolidated into a lesser number of Shares or subdivided into a greater number of Shares; | |
(F) |
The interpretation by the Board of any questions of interpretation of the Omnibus Plan; | |
(G) |
The determination of the exercise price of the options; | |
(H) |
The text of any part of the Plan to correct any defect, supply any omission, or reconcile any inconsistency in the Plan or any Award in the manner and to the extent the Committee shall deem desirable to carry its Plan into effect; and | |
(I) |
Any other matter which does not expressly require the approval of shareholders of the Company as provided below. |
34
Subject to regulatory approval and the limitations below, the Board may amend, without shareholder approval, the terms of any outstanding Award provided that the terms of such amendment are made in accordance with the Omnibus Plan;
Subject to regulatory approval, the Board may amend any of the provisions of the Omnibus Plan relating to the following, provided the Board obtains the approval of the shareholders of the Company in respect thereof:
(A) |
|
The limitations on grants of Options to Insiders, and the number of Shares that may be reserved for issuance to Insiders; |
(B) | The maximum number of shares reserved for issuance upon exercise of awards granted under the Omnibus Plan; or | |
(C) |
The reduction in the exercise price or an extension of its term beyond the original expiry date, of any Award held by an insider. |
None of the amendments listed above may, without the consent of any holder of awards under the Omnibus Plan, be made if such amendment will have the effect of impairing, derogating from or otherwise adversely affecting such holders rights under the Omnibus Plan, unless additional similar rights comparable thereto, or other compensation of equal or greater value, is given to such holder.
The Board recommends a vote FOR the ratification of the Option Share Increase.
35
PROPOSAL 3 APPROVAL OF
THE 2007 AUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
What am I voting on?
The Companys 2007 audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007 are included in the Annual Report to Shareholders which accompanies this Proxy Statement. These financial statements were prepared by the Company and audited by the Companys independent registered public accounting firm, Ernst & Young LLP. Please review the Report of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for a discussion of the audit process.
These financial statements provide Consolidated Balance Sheets, Consolidated Statements of Operations, Consolidated Statements of Stockholders Equity, and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007.
The proposal seeks stockholder approval of the 2007 audited financial statements.
The Board recommends a vote FOR the ratification of the 2007 Audited Financial Statements.
36
PROPOSAL 4 RATIFICATION OF
THE APPOINTMENT OF THE
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
What am I voting on?
The Audit Committee has selected Ernst and Young LLP to be its Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for the current fiscal year ending March 31, 2008.
This proposal seeks shareholder ratification of the appointment of Ernst & Young LLP.
INFORMATION OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Ernst and Young LLP was the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm for the Company in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2006 and 2007.
Our financial statements have been audited by Ernst & Young LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, for the years ended March 31, 2005 and 2004 and for the period from April 24, 2003 (inception) to March 31, 2004.
Effective on or about June 20, 2005, we terminated the services of our former independent auditor, DeVisser Gray, Chartered Accountants of Vancouver, British Columbia.
No adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion was issued during the past two years by our former accountant, and no opinion of our former accountant was qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope or accounting principles.
The change in auditors was recommended by our Board of Directors.
During the two most recent fiscal years and the interim period preceding such dismissal, we are not aware of any disagreements with our former accountant on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreement(s), if not resolved to the satisfaction of our former accountant, would have caused it to make references to the subject matter of the disagreement(s) in connection with its report.
We are not aware of any events (reportable under Item 304 (a)(1)(B) of Regulation S-B) that have occurred during the two most recent fiscal years and the interim period preceding the dismissal of our former accountant.
During the two most recent fiscal years and the interim period preceding the appointment of Ernst & Young, we have not consulted Ernst & Young regarding either:
1) The application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, either completed or proposed; or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on our financial statements, and neither a written report nor oral advice was provided to us that we considered an important factor in reaching a decision as to the accounting or financial reporting issue; or
2) Any matter that was either the subject of a disagreement or event (reportable under Regulation S-B, Item 304(a)(1)(iv)(B)).
The Company does not expect that a representative from Ernst & Young will be at the Annual Meeting. If a representative of Ernst & Young does attend the meeting, they will be given an opportunity to make a statement, should they choose to do so. The Company does not know if the representative, if one does attend the Annual Meeting, would make himself or herself available for questions at the Annual Meeting.
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Audit Fees
The aggregate fees billed by the Company's auditors for professional services rendered in connection with the audit of the Company's annual consolidated financial statements for fiscal 2007 and 2006 and reviews of the consolidated financial statements included in the Company's Forms 10-KSB for fiscal 2007 and 2006 were $85,000 and $59,000, respectively.
Audit-Related Fees
The aggregate fees billed by the Company's auditors for any additional fees for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Company's financial statements including costs related to the Initial Public Offering and are not reported under "Audit Fees" above for fiscal 2007 and 2006 were $11,610 and $122,500, respectively.
Tax Fees
The aggregate fees billed by the Company's auditors for professional services for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning for fiscal 2007 and 2006 were $17,585 and $16,640, respectively.
All Other Fees
The aggregate fees billed by the Company's auditors for all other non-audit services rendered to the Company, such as attending meetings and other miscellaneous financial consulting, for fiscal 2007 and 2006 were $Nil and $Nil, respectively.
The Board recommends a vote FOR the ratification of the appointment of the independent registered public accounting firm.
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OTHER MATTERS
As of the date of this Proxy Statement, management does not know of any other matter that will come before the meeting.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
The Companys Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2007, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 21, 2007 and amended June 22, 2007.
By Order of the Board of Directors, | |
/s/ Rajwant Kang | |
Rajwant Kang | |
Secretary |
Vancouver, BC
August 7, 2007
Please sign and return the enclosed form of proxy promptly. If you decide to attend the meeting, you may, if you wish, revoke the proxy and vote your shares in person.
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