Major Drilling Group International Inc. (“Major Drilling” or the “Company”) (TSX: MDI), a leading provider of specialized drilling services to the mining sector, today reported results for the second quarter of fiscal 2024, ended October 31, 2023.

Quarterly Highlights

  • Revenue of $207.0 million, highest revenue since July 2012.
  • EBITDA(1) of $43.6 million (or $0.53 per share), up from $43.0 million (or $0.52 per share) for the same period last year.
  • Net earnings of $23.7 million (or $0.29 per share), up from $23.6 million (or $0.29 per share) for the same period last year.
  • Spent $7.3 million repurchasing 875,268 shares.
  • Net cash(1) position increased $23.4 million during the quarter to $84.2 million.

“We continued to see strength in our business as the increase in demand from copper and battery metal customers more than offset the slowdown in exploration from junior gold companies,” said Denis Larocque, President and CEO of Major Drilling. “During the quarter, we saw our combined revenue from copper and lithium increase by 40% as compared to last year, now representing over 30% of our activity, while gold represented approximately 40%. In addition, growth from our South American operations outweighed a decline in North American revenue, showcasing the effectiveness of our global diversification strategy.”

“The Company delivered excellent financial results in the quarter with EBITDA of $43.6 million amidst a backdrop of challenging macro-economic factors. Our lean structure and debt free balance sheet drove strong cash flow generation of $23.4 million, growing our net cash position to $84.2 million,” said Ian Ross, CFO of Major Drilling. “Our robust cash generation provides the opportunity to modernize and optimize our fleet and support equipment to differentiate ourselves in an industry that has seen a lack of investment over the years. We spent $17.4 million on capital expenditures in the quarter, including 6 new drills while disposing of 5 older, less efficient drills, bringing the total fleet count to 602.”

“Providing returns to shareholders remains Major Drilling’s priority and with challenging capital markets negatively impacting company valuations across the mining sector, we took the opportunity to allocate capital to our share buyback efforts. In total, we spent $7.3 million in the quarter acquiring and cancelling 875,268 shares at a weighted average price of $8.31 per share. The Company continues to view investment in the Normal Course Issuer Bid ("NCIB") program as an effective method to deliver shareholder value while maintaining a financially prudent capital structure,” said Mr. Ross.

“Looking at calendar 2024, customer demand is expected to remain strong as the growing supply shortfall in most mineral commodities should continue to drive demand for our services for several years,” said Denis Larocque. “The growing global demand for electrification will only increase the need for metals like copper, nickel and lithium. The enormous volume of copper, battery metals, and likely uranium required will further increase pressure on the existing supply/demand dynamic. We expect all of this to continue to drive substantial additional investments in copper and other base metal exploration projects as we help our customers discover the metals that will allow the world to accelerate its efforts toward decarbonization. With gold prices recently reaching record highs, this could have a positive impact on funding for junior mining companies. In the short term, it is important to note that we are now in our third quarter, traditionally the weakest quarter of our fiscal year, as mining and exploration companies pause their drilling programs, often for extended periods over the holiday season. While conversations remain encouraging heading into calendar 2024, we have started to see several projects slowing down earlier than the previous year.”

“Major Drilling is committed to invest in its fleet and support equipment, innovation in the field, and Tier 1 safety standards. Coupled with our industry-leading balance sheet, we are extremely well positioned to support our customers in their efforts to supply the world with minerals needed to transition to a more sustainable future. Driven by a diversified commodity mix, the Company has focused operations on strategic mining geographies and stable jurisdictions. We believe that this provides our shareholders and potential new investors an opportunity to invest in the mining industry with growing exposure to precious metals, battery metals and critical minerals, while limiting mine or country exposure.”

In millions of Canadian dollars (except earnings per share)   Q2 2024     Q2 2023     YTD 2024     YTD 2023  
Revenue   $ 207.0     $ 201.7     $ 405.8     $ 401.6  
Gross margin     25.3 %     26.3 %     25.0 %     25.9 %
Adjusted gross margin (1)     31.0 %     31.8 %     30.6 %     31.3 %
EBITDA (1)     43.6       43.0       83.9       86.5  
As percentage of revenue     21.1 %     21.3 %     20.7 %     21.5 %
Net earnings     23.7       23.6       45.5       47.9  
Earnings per share     0.29       0.29       0.55       0.58  
(1) See “Non-IFRS Financial Measures”
 

Second Quarter Ended October 31, 2023

Total revenue for the quarter was $207.0 million, up 2.6% from revenue of $201.7 million recorded in the same quarter last year. The favourable foreign exchange translation impact on revenue and net earnings for the quarter, when comparing to the effective rates for the same period last year, was approximately $3 million and $1 million, respectively. Mining companies continued elevated spending on exploration and resource definition as reserves are depleting, and the need for battery metals drives exploration.

Revenue for the quarter from Canada - U.S. drilling operations decreased by 5.7% to $106.7 million, compared to the same period last year. Canada continues to be negatively impacted by financing constraints for the junior miners, which has caused a slowdown in this region compared to the same quarter last year.

South and Central American revenue increased by 25.9% to $52.5 million for the quarter, compared to the same quarter last year. The demand for battery metals is driving activity levels in both Chile and Argentina as operations have seen positive impacts from these commodities.

Australasian and African revenue increased by 1.9% to $47.8 million, compared to the same period last year. Demand for our specialized services in Australia continues to drive growth in this region.

Gross margin percentage for the quarter was 25.3%, compared to 26.3% for the same period last year. Depreciation expense totaling $11.8 million is included in direct costs for the current quarter, versus $11.2 million in the same quarter last year. Adjusted gross margin, which excludes depreciation expense, was 31.0% for the quarter, compared to 31.8% for the same period last year. Margins held relatively steady year-over-year as inflationary headwinds have been mainly offset by modest price improvements.

General and administrative costs were $17.6 million, an increase of $1.5 million compared to the same quarter last year. The increase from the prior year was driven by annual inflationary wage increases and higher travel costs associated with elevated business activity levels.

Other expenses were $3.2 million, down from $4.7 million in the prior year quarter, primarily due to a decrease in the annual allowance for doubtful accounts as compared to the prior year quarter.

Foreign exchange loss was $0.9 million, compared to a loss of $1.1 million for the same quarter last year. While the Company's reporting currency is the Canadian dollar, various jurisdictions have net monetary assets or liabilities exposed to various other currencies.

The income tax provision for the quarter was an expense of $7.4 million, compared to an expense of $7.5 million for the prior year period. The tax provision was flat compared to the prior year as profit levels were consistent year-over-year.

Net earnings were $23.7 million or $0.29 per share ($0.29 per share diluted) for the quarter, compared to net earnings of $23.6 million or $0.29 per share ($0.28 per share diluted) for the prior year quarter.

Non-IFRS Financial Measures

The Company’s financial data has been prepared in accordance with IFRS, with the exception of certain financial measures detailed below. The measures below have been used consistently by the Company’s management team in assessing operational performance on both segmented and consolidated levels, and in assessing the Company’s financial strength. The Company believes these non-IFRS financial measures are key, for both management and investors, in evaluating performance at a consolidated level and are commonly reported and widely used by investors and lending institutions as indicators of a company’s operating performance and ability to incur and service debt, and as a valuation metric. These measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS and therefore may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other publicly traded companies and should not be construed as an alternative to other financial measures determined in accordance with IFRS.

Adjusted gross profit/margin - excludes depreciation expense:

(in $000s CAD)     Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
                         
Total revenue   $ 206,951     $ 201,716     $ 405,835     $ 401,551  
Less: direct costs     154,590       148,713       304,465       297,374  
Gross profit     52,361       53,003       101,370       104,177  
Add: depreciation     11,840       11,177       22,791       21,591  
Adjusted gross profit     64,201       64,180       124,161       125,768  
Adjusted gross margin     31.0 %     31.8 %     30.6 %     31.3 %
                                 

EBITDA - earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization:

(in $000s CAD)     Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
                         
Net earnings   $ 23,694     $ 23,611     $ 45,467     $ 47,859  
Finance (revenues) costs     (275 )     26       (957 )     456  
Income tax provision     7,434       7,541       14,610       14,826  
Depreciation and amortization     12,780       11,829       24,769       23,370  
EBITDA   $ 43,633     $ 43,007     $ 83,889     $ 86,511  
                                 

Net cash (debt) – cash net of debt, excluding lease liabilities reported under IFRS 16 Leases:

(in $000s CAD)   October 31, 2023     April 30, 2023  
             
Cash   $ 92,467     $ 94,432  
Contingent consideration     (8,270 )     (15,113 )
Long-term debt     -       (19,972 )
Net cash (debt)   $ 84,197     $ 59,347  
                 

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes certain information that may constitute “forward-looking information” under applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this news release that address future events, developments, or performance that the Company expects to occur (including management’s expectations regarding the Company’s objectives, strategies, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and businesses) are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by future or conditional verbs such as “outlook”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate”, “project”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, and terms and expressions of similar import. All forward-looking information in this news release is qualified by this cautionary note.

Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon various estimates and assumptions including, without limitation, the expectations and beliefs of management related to the factors set forth herein. While these factors and assumptions are considered reasonable by the Company as at the date of this document in light of management’s experience and perception of current conditions and expected developments, these statements are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements and information.

Such forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that include, but are not limited to: the level of activity in the mining industry and the demand for the Company’s services; competitive pressures; global and local political and economic environments and conditions; the level of funding for the Company’s clients (particularly for junior mining companies); exposure to currency movements (which can affect the Company’s revenue in Canadian dollars); currency restrictions; efficient management of the Company’s growth; the integration of business acquisitions and the realization of the intended benefits of such acquisitions; safety of the Company’s workforce; risks and uncertainties relating to climate change and natural disaster; the Company’s dependence on key customers; the geographic distribution of the Company’s operations; the impact of operational changes; changes in jurisdictions in which the Company operates (including changes in regulation); failure by counterparties to fulfill contractual obligations; disease outbreak; as well as other risk factors described under “General Risks and Uncertainties” in the Company’s MD&A for the year ended April 30, 2023, available on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca. Should one or more risk, uncertainty, contingency, or other factor materialize or should any factor or assumption prove incorrect, actual results could vary materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking statements made in this document are made as of the date of this document and the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement, even if new information becomes available, as a result of future events, or for any other reasons, except as required by applicable securities laws.

About Major Drilling

Major Drilling Group International Inc. is one of the world’s largest drilling services companies primarily serving the mining industry. Established in 1980, Major Drilling has over 1,000 years of combined experience and expertise within its management team. The Company maintains field operations and offices in Canada, the United States, Mexico, South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Major Drilling provides a complete suite of drilling services including surface and underground coring, directional, reverse circulation, sonic, geotechnical, environmental, water-well, coal-bed methane, shallow gas, underground percussive/longhole drilling, surface drill and blast, and a variety of mine services.

Webcast/Conference Call Information

Major Drilling Group International Inc. will provide a simultaneous webcast and conference call to discuss its quarterly results on Friday, December 8, 2023 at 8:00 AM (EST). To access the webcast, which includes a slide presentation, please go to the investors/webcasts section of Major Drilling’s website at www.majordrilling.com and click on the link. Please note that this is listen-only mode.

To participate in the conference call, please dial 416-340-2217, participant passcode 6861492# and ask for Major Drilling’s Second Quarter Results Conference Call. To ensure your participation, please call in approximately five minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call.

For those unable to participate, a taped rebroadcast will be available approximately one hour after the completion of the call until Monday, January 8, 2024. To access the rebroadcast, dial 905-694-9451 and enter the passcode 2298856#. The webcast will also be archived for one year and can be accessed on the Major Drilling website at www.majordrilling.com.

For further information: Ian Ross, Chief Financial Officer Tel: (506) 857-8636 Fax: (506) 857-9211 ir@majordrilling.com

   
Major Drilling Group International Inc.  
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations  
(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share information)  
(unaudited)  
                         
    Three months ended     Six months ended  
    October 31     October 31  
                         
      2023       2022       2023       2022  
                         
TOTAL REVENUE   $ 206,951     $ 201,716     $ 405,835     $ 401,551  
                         
DIRECT COSTS (note 9)     154,590       148,713       304,465       297,374  
                         
GROSS PROFIT     52,361       53,003       101,370       104,177  
                         
OPERATING EXPENSES                        
General and administrative (note 9)     17,602       16,068       34,112       32,242  
Other (revenue) expenses     3,222       4,723       6,093       7,743  
(Gain) loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment     (260 )     (22 )     (497 )     (720 )
Foreign exchange (gain) loss     944       1,056       2,542       1,771  
Finance (revenues) costs     (275 )     26       (957 )     456  
      21,233       21,851       41,293       41,492  
                         
EARNINGS BEFORE INCOME TAX     31,128       31,152       60,077       62,685  
                         
INCOME TAX EXPENSE (RECOVERY) (note 10)                        
Current     7,286       6,564       13,929       14,265  
Deferred     148       977       681       561  
      7,434       7,541       14,610       14,826  
                         
NET EARNINGS   $ 23,694     $ 23,611     $ 45,467     $ 47,859  
                         
                         
EARNINGS PER SHARE (note 11)                        
Basic   $ 0.29     $ 0.29     $ 0.55     $ 0.58  
Diluted   $ 0.29     $ 0.28     $ 0.55     $ 0.58  
                         
   
Major Drilling Group International Inc.  
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings  
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)  
(unaudited)  
               
    Three months ended     Six months ended  
    October 31     October 31  
                         
      2023       2022       2023       2022  
                         
NET EARNINGS   $ 23,694     $ 23,611     $ 45,467     $ 47,859  
                         
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS                        
                         
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss                        
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency translations     10,588       15,079       2,289       11,987  
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives (net of tax)     (841 )     54       (819 )     (1,578 )
                         
COMPREHENSIVE EARNINGS   $ 33,441     $ 38,744     $ 46,937     $ 58,268  
   
Major Drilling Group International Inc.  
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity  
For the six months ended October 31, 2023 and 2022  
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)  
(unaudited)  
   
    Share capital     Retainedearnings     Otherreserves     Share-basedpayments reserve     Foreign currencytranslation reserve     Total  
                                     
BALANCE AS AT MAY 1, 2022   $ 263,183     $ 31,022     $ 1,536     $ 3,996     $ 60,021     $ 359,758  
                                     
Exercise of stock options     1,467       -       -       (403 )     -       1,064  
Share-based compensation     -       -       -       243       -       243  
      264,650       31,022       1,536       3,836       60,021       361,065  
Comprehensive earnings:                                    
Net earnings     -       47,859       -       -       -       47,859  
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency translations     -       -       -       -       11,987       11,987  
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives     -       -       (1,578 )     -       -       (1,578 )
Total comprehensive earnings     -       47,859       (1,578 )     -       11,987       58,268  
                                     
BALANCE AS AT OCTOBER 31, 2022     264,650       78,881       (42 )     3,836       72,008       419,333  
                                     
                                     
BALANCE AS AT MAY 1, 2023   $ 266,071     $ 105,944     $ (37 )   $ 3,696     $ 76,903     $ 452,577  
                                     
Exercise of stock options     606       (197 )     -       (295 )     -       114  
Share-based compensation     -       -       -       159       -       159  
Share buyback (note 8)     (3,170 )     (5,397 )     -       -       -       (8,567 )
Stock options expired/forfeited     -       1       -       (1 )     -       -  
      263,507       100,351       (37 )     3,559       76,903       444,283  
Comprehensive earnings:                                    
Net earnings     -       45,467       -       -       -       45,467  
Unrealized gain (loss) on foreign currency translations     -       -       -       -       2,289       2,289  
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivatives     -       -       (819 )     -       -       (819 )
Total comprehensive earnings     -       45,467       (819 )     -       2,289       46,937  
                                     
BALANCE AS AT OCTOBER 31, 2023   $ 263,507     $ 145,818     $ (856 )   $ 3,559     $ 79,192     $ 491,220  
   
Major Drilling Group International Inc.  
Interim Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows  
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)  
(unaudited)  
                         
                         
    Three months ended     Six months ended  
    October 31     October 31  
                         
      2023       2022       2023       2022  
                         
OPERATING ACTIVITIES                        
Earnings before income tax   $ 31,128     $ 31,152     $ 60,077     $ 62,685  
Operating items not involving cash                        
Depreciation and amortization (note 9)     12,780       11,829       24,769       23,370  
(Gain) loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment     (260 )     (22 )     (497 )     (720 )
Share-based compensation     58       131       159       243  
Finance (revenues) costs recognized in earnings before income tax     (275 )     26       (957 )     456  
      43,431       43,116       83,551       86,034  
Changes in non-cash operating working capital items     6,732       13,316       (9,392 )     (3,152 )
Finance revenues received (costs paid)     275       (26 )     957       (456 )
Income taxes paid     (5,047 )     (4,321 )     (10,012 )     (9,671 )
Cash flow from (used in) operating activities     45,391       52,085       65,104       72,755  
                         
FINANCING ACTIVITIES                        
Repayment of lease liabilities     (412 )     (392 )     (731 )     (836 )
Repayment of long-term debt (note 7)     -       -       (20,000 )     (20,000 )
Issuance of common shares due to exercise of stock options     57       570       440       1,064  
Cash-settled stock options     (326 )     -       (326 )     -  
Repurchase of common shares (note 8)     (7,276 )     -       (8,567 )     -  
Cash flow from (used in) financing activities     (7,957 )     178       (29,184 )     (19,772 )
                         
INVESTING ACTIVITIES                        
Payment of consideration for previous business acquisition     (6,991 )     (6,289 )     (6,991 )     (6,289 )
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment (note 6)     (17,443 )     (13,334 )     (33,717 )     (26,488 )
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment     1,351       548       1,644       2,839  
Cash flow from (used in) investing activities     (23,083 )     (19,075 )     (39,064 )     (29,938 )
                         
Effect of exchange rate changes     2,199       3,392       1,179       3,393  
                         
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH     16,550       36,580       (1,965 )     26,438  
                         
CASH, BEGINNING OF THE PERIOD     75,917       61,118       94,432       71,260  
                         
CASH, END OF THE PERIOD   $ 92,467     $ 97,698     $ 92,467     $ 97,698  
                                 
   
Major Drilling Group International Inc.  
Interim Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets  
As at October 31, 2023 and April 30, 2023  
(in thousands of Canadian dollars)  
(unaudited)  
             
    October 31, 2023     April 30, 2023  
             
ASSETS            
             
CURRENT ASSETS            
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 92,467     $ 94,432  
Trade and other receivables (note 13)     134,915       137,633  
Income tax receivable     1,732       2,336  
Inventories     119,242       115,128  
Prepaid expenses     13,224       10,996  
      361,580       360,525  
             
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (note 6)     224,239       215,085  
             
RIGHT-OF-USE ASSETS     5,405       5,637  
             
DEFERRED INCOME TAX ASSETS     2,979       4,444  
             
GOODWILL     22,361       22,690  
             
INTANGIBLE ASSETS     2,707       3,304  
             
    $ 619,271     $ 611,685  
             
             
LIABILITIES            
             
CURRENT LIABILITIES            
Trade and other payables   $ 94,964     $ 102,144  
Income tax payable     7,146       3,674  
Current portion of lease liabilities     1,434       1,617  
Current portion of contingent consideration     8,270       7,138  
      111,814       114,573  
             
LEASE LIABILITIES     3,994       3,965  
             
CONTINGENT CONSIDERATION     -       7,975  
             
LONG-TERM DEBT (note 7)     -       19,972  
             
DEFERRED INCOME TAX LIABILITIES     12,243       12,623  
      128,051       159,108  
             
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY            
Share capital     263,507       266,071  
Retained earnings     145,818       105,944  
Other reserves     (856 )     (37 )
Share-based payments reserve     3,559       3,696  
Foreign currency translation reserve     79,192       76,903  
      491,220       452,577  
             
    $ 619,271     $ 611,685  
                 

MAJOR DRILLING GROUP INTERNATIONAL INC.NOTES TO INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTSFOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2023 AND 2022 (UNAUDITED)(in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share information)

1.   NATURE OF ACTIVITIES

Major Drilling Group International Inc. (the “Company”) is incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations Act and has its head office at 111 St. George Street, Moncton, NB, Canada. The Company’s common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”). The principal source of revenue consists of contract drilling for companies primarily involved in mining and mineral exploration. The Company has operations in Canada, the United States, Mexico, South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia.

2.   BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Statement of compliance These Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting (“IAS 34”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and using the accounting policies as outlined in the Company’s annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2023.

On December 7, 2023, the Board of Directors authorized the financial statements for issue.

Basis of consolidation These Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company and entities controlled by the Company. Control is achieved when the Company is exposed or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee.

The results of subsidiaries acquired or disposed of during the period are included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations from the effective date of acquisition or up to the effective date of disposal, as appropriate.

Intercompany transactions, balances, income and expenses are eliminated on consolidation, where appropriate.

Basis of preparation These Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared based on the historical cost basis, except for certain financial instruments that are measured at fair value, using the same accounting policies and methods of computation as presented in the Company’s annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2023.

3.   APPLICATION OF NEW AND REVISED IFRS

The Company has not applied the following IASB standard amendment that has been issued, but is not yet effective:

  • IAS 21 (as amended in 2023) - The Effect of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates - effective for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2025, with earlier application permitted.

The Company is currently in the process of assessing the impact the adoption of the above amendment will have on the Consolidated Financial Statements.

4.   KEY SOURCES OF ESTIMATION UNCERTAINTY AND CRITICAL ACCOUNTING JUDGMENTS

The preparation of financial statements, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that are not readily apparent from other sources, which affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised, if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods, if the revision affects both current and future periods. Significant areas requiring the use of management estimates relate to the useful lives of property, plant and equipment for depreciation purposes, property, plant and equipment and inventory valuation, determination of income and other taxes, assumptions used in the compilation of fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in business acquisitions, amounts recorded as accrued liabilities, contingent consideration, allowance for impairment of trade receivables, and impairment testing of goodwill and intangible assets.

The Company applied judgment in determining the functional currency of the Company and its subsidiaries, the determination of cash-generating units (“CGUs”), the degree of componentization of property, plant and equipment, the recognition of provisions and accrued liabilities, and the determination of the probability that deferred income tax assets will be realized from future taxable earnings.

5.   SEASONALITY OF OPERATIONS

The third quarter (November to January) is normally the Company’s weakest quarter due to the shutdown of mining and exploration activities, often for extended periods over the holiday season.

6.   PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Capital expenditures for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023 were $17,443 (2022 - $13,334) and $33,717 (2022 - $26,488). The Company did not obtain direct financing for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023 or 2022.

7.   LONG-TERM DEBT

During the previous quarter, the Company made a discretionary payment of $20,000 on its $75,000 revolving-term facility (maturing in September 2027), bringing long-term debt to nil.

8.   SHARE BUYBACK

During the previous quarter, the Company initiated its Normal Course Issuer Bid ("NCIB"). During the three and six months ended October 31, 2023, the Company has repurchased 875,268 and 1,020,568 common shares, respectively, at an average price of $8.31 and $8.40, respectively.

9.   EXPENSES BY NATURE

Direct costs by nature are as follows:

      Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
                         
Depreciation   $ 11,840     $ 11,177     $ 22,791     $ 21,591  
Employee salaries and benefit expenses     70,361       68,086       138,714       134,078  
Materials, consumables and external costs     63,177       61,176       124,243       119,625  
Other     9,212       8,274       18,717       22,080  
    $ 154,590     $ 148,713     $ 304,465     $ 297,374  
                                 

General and administrative expenses by nature are as follows:

      Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
                         
Amortization of intangible assets   $ 259     $ 358     $ 525     $ 720  
Depreciation     681       294       1,453       1,059  
Employee salaries and benefit expenses     9,003       8,165       17,926       16,830  
Other general and administrative expenses     7,659       7,251       14,208       13,633  
    $ 17,602     $ 16,068     $ 34,112     $ 32,242  
                                 

10.   INCOME TAXES

The income tax provision for the period can be reconciled to accounting earnings before income tax as follows:

      Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
                         
Earnings before income tax   $ 31,128     $ 31,152     $ 60,077     $ 62,685  
                         
Statutory Canadian corporate income tax rate     27 %     27 %     27 %     27 %
                         
Expected income tax provision based on statutory rate     8,405       8,411       16,221       16,925  
Non-recognition of tax benefits related to losses     (102 )     491       536       647  
Utilization of previously unrecognized losses     (1,610 )     (2,903 )     (2,974 )     (4,848 )
Other foreign taxes paid     146       949       292       1,955  
Rate variances in foreign jurisdictions     (3 )     (64 )     119       38  
Permanent differences and other     598       657       416       109  
Income tax provision recognized in net earnings   $ 7,434     $ 7,541     $ 14,610     $ 14,826  
 

The Company periodically assesses its liabilities and contingencies for all tax years open to audit based upon the latest information available. For those matters where it is probable that an adjustment will be made, the Company records its best estimate of these tax liabilities, including related interest charges. Inherent uncertainties exist in estimates of tax contingencies due to changes in tax laws. While management believes they have adequately provided for the probable outcome of these matters, future results may include favourable or unfavourable adjustments to these estimated tax liabilities in the period the assessments are made, or resolved, or when the statutes of limitations lapse.

11.   EARNINGS PER SHARE

All of the Company’s earnings are attributable to common shares, therefore, net earnings are used in determining earnings per share.

      Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
                         
Net earnings   $ 23,694     $ 23,611     $ 45,467     $ 47,859  
                         
Weighted average number of shares:                        
Basic (000s)     82,636       82,847       82,822       82,793  
Diluted (000s)     82,816       83,149       83,050       83,150  
                         
Earnings per share                        
Basic   $ 0.29     $ 0.29     $ 0.55     $ 0.58  
Diluted   $ 0.29     $ 0.28     $ 0.55     $ 0.58  
                                 

The calculation of diluted earnings per share for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023 excludes the effect of 297,000 and 205,000 options, respectively (2022 - 210,000 and 180,897, respectively) as they were not in-the-money.

The total number of shares outstanding on October 31, 2023 was 82,093,486 (2022 - 82,865,254).

12.   SEGMENTED INFORMATION

The Company’s operations are divided into the following three geographic segments, corresponding to its management structure: Canada - U.S.; South and Central America; and Australasia and Africa. The services provided in each of the reportable segments are essentially the same. The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the Company’s annual Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended April 30, 2023. Management evaluates performance based on earnings from operations in these three geographic segments before finance costs, general corporate expenses and income taxes. Data relating to each of the Company’s reportable segments is presented as follows:

      Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
Revenue                        
Canada - U.S.*   $ 106,688     $ 113,066     $ 208,140     $ 225,666  
South and Central America     52,467       41,725       104,105       89,178  
Australasia and Africa     47,796       46,925       93,590       86,707  
    $ 206,951     $ 201,716     $ 405,835     $ 401,551  
                                 

*Canada - U.S. includes revenue of $34,074 and $42,389 for Canadian operations for the three months ended October 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively and $70,762 and $88,412 for the six months ended October 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.

      Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
Earnings from operations                        
Canada - U.S.   $ 14,929     $ 22,024     $ 29,814     $ 45,776  
South and Central America     9,386       5,235       19,376       14,288  
Australasia and Africa     10,256       7,847       18,143       11,011  
      34,571       35,106       67,333       71,075  
                         
Finance (revenues) costs     (275 )     26       (957 )     456  
General and corporate expenses**     3,718       3,928       8,213       7,934  
Income tax     7,434       7,541       14,610       14,826  
      10,877       11,495       21,866       23,216  
                         
Net earnings   $ 23,694     $ 23,611     $ 45,467     $ 47,859  
                                 

**General and corporate expenses include expenses for corporate offices and stock-based compensation.

      Q2 2024       Q2 2023       YTD 2024       YTD 2023  
Capital expenditures                        
Canada - U.S.   $ 5,823     $ 9,440     $ 14,834     $ 17,846  
South and Central America     6,817       2,062       10,886       5,393  
Australasia and Africa     4,803       1,832       7,928       2,984  
Unallocated and corporate assets     -       -       69       265  
Total capital expenditures   $ 17,443     $ 13,334     $ 33,717     $ 26,488  
Depreciation and amortization                        
Canada - U.S.   $ 5,875     $ 6,126     $ 11,791     $ 11,521  
South and Central America     2,962       2,650       5,529       5,163  
Australasia and Africa     3,795       2,989       7,109       6,402  
Unallocated and corporate assets     148       64       340       284  
Total depreciation and amortization   $ 12,780     $ 11,829     $ 24,769     $ 23,370  

    October 31, 2023     April 30, 2023  
Identifiable assets            
Canada - U.S.*   $ 288,482     $ 283,895  
South and Central America     175,824       154,384  
Australasia and Africa     198,371       193,739  
Unallocated and corporate liabilities     (43,406 )     (20,333 )
Total identifiable assets   $ 619,271     $ 611,685  

*Canada - U.S. includes property, plant and equipment as at October 31, 2023 of $64,159 (April 30, 2023 - $65,481) for Canadian operations.

13.   FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

Fair value The carrying values of cash, trade and other receivables, demand credit facilities and trade and other payables approximate their fair value due to the relatively short period to maturity of the instruments. The carrying value of contingent consideration and long-term debt approximates their fair value as the interest applicable is reflective of fair market rates.

Financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified and disclosed in one of the following categories:

  • Level 1 - quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities;
  • Level 2 - inputs other than quoted prices included in level 1 that are observable for the assets or liabilities, either directly (i.e., as prices) or indirectly (i.e., derived from prices); and
  • Level 3 - inputs for the assets or liabilities that are not based on observable market data (unobservable inputs).

The Company enters into certain derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to interest rate and market risks, comprised of share-price forward contracts with a combined notional amount of $7,331 maturing at varying dates through June 2026.

The fair value hierarchy requires the use of observable market inputs whenever such inputs exist. A financial instrument is classified to the lowest level of the hierarchy for which a significant input has been considered in measuring fair value.

The Company’s derivatives, with fair values as follows, are classified as level 2 financial instruments. There were no transfers of amounts between level 1, level 2 and level 3 financial instruments for the three and six months ended October 31, 2023.

    October 31, 2023     April 30, 2023  
             
Interest rate swap   $ -     $ 28  
Share-price forward contracts   $ (1,879 )   $ 2,189  
                 

Credit risk As at October 31, 2023, 95.0% (April 30, 2023 - 97.0%) of the Company’s trade receivables were aged as current and 2.8% (April 30, 2023 - 2.5%) of the trade receivables were impaired.

The movements in the allowance for impairment of trade receivables during the six and twelve-month periods were as follows:

    October 31, 2023     April 30, 2023  
             
Opening balance   $ 3,303     $ 1,517  
Increase in impairment allowance     766       2,620  
Recovery of amounts previously impaired     (364 )     (51 )
Write-off charged against allowance     -       (824 )
Foreign exchange translation differences     (24 )     41  
Ending balance   $ 3,681     $ 3,303  
                 

Foreign currency risk As at October 31, 2023, the most significant carrying amounts of net monetary assets and/or liabilities (which may include intercompany balances with other subsidiaries) that: (i) are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency of the respective Company subsidiary; and (ii) cause foreign exchange rate exposure, including the impact on earnings before income taxes (“EBIT”), if the corresponding rate changes by 10%, are as follows (in $000s CAD):

    Rate variance   MNT/USD   IDR/USD   ARS/USD   MXN/USD   USD/CLP   USD/CAD   Other
Net exposure on monetary assets (liabilities)       8,375   7,172   6,386   3,027   (6,789 )   (11,473 )   (162 )
EBIT impact   +/-10%   931   797   710   336   754     1,275     18  
                                 

Liquidity risk The following table details contractual maturities for the Company’s financial liabilities:

      1 year       2-3 years       4-5 years     Thereafter       Total  
                               
Trade and other payables   $ 94,964     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 94,964  
Lease liabilities (interest included)     1,726       2,668       1,490       235       6,119  
Contingent consideration (undiscounted)     8,807       -       -       -       8,807  
    $ 105,497     $ 2,668     $ 1,490     $ 235     $ 109,890  
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