Horizonte Minerals plc / Index: AIM and TSX / Epic: HZM / Sector: Mining

20 February 2014

FINAL RESULTS

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20 February 2014 � Horizonte Minerals Plc, (AIM: HZM, TSX: HZM) (�Horizonte� or �the Company�) the exploration and development company focused in Brazil, announces its results for the year ended 31 December 2013.

Overview

• Delivery of a number of major milestones during 2013, further de-risking of 100%-owned Araguaia Nickel Project (�Araguaia�) located south of the producing Carajas mineral district, Brazil
• Pre-Feasibility Study (�PFS�) being conducted by Snowden Mining Industry Consultants on track for completion in Q1 2014
• Metallurgical test work completed � confirming Araguaia ore as suitable for the proven Rotary Kiln Electric Furnace processing route for ferro-nickel production
• 321 holes (9,309 metres) of the final Phase 3 infill drill programme completed on time and within budget targeting five zones at Araguaia with continual high grade intercepts including 20.21 metres grading 2.29% Ni
• Results from Phase 3 drilling to feed into a new resource update as part of the PFS aiming to convert sufficient resources to the Indicated category to provide a minimum of 20 years mine life
• Solid cash position following raising of �3.08 million underpinning the continued support from major shareholders including Teck Resources and Henderson Global Investors

Chairman�s Statement

2013 was a highly active year for Horizonte with the prime focus on the commencement and near completion of the Pre-Feasibility Study (�PFS�) on our 100%-owned Araguaia Nickel Project, located south of the Carajas Mining District in northern Brazil (�Araguaia�).  The PFS is a major study aimed at further increasing the confidence that Araguaia is set to become Brazil�s next major nickel project.  The completion of the PFS, which is on budget and on schedule for Q1 2014, will be a significant de-risking milestone for the project and add inherent value for shareholders.

Key aspects of the project advancement during 2013 included the completion of a 9,309m infill drilling programme at Araguaia, where a total of 35,200m (1,412 holes) have now been drilled to date.  The recent drilling has continued to return high grade nickel results including 20.21 metres at 2.29% nickel and show good vertical thickness over the main target zone.  These drilling results will feed into a new resource statement, which will convert part of the current Inferred resources into the Indicated category, and will be included as a part of the PFS. A second key aspect, as well as a critical de-risking milestone, was the completion of a metallurgical test programme at Araguaia in May 2013.  This has demonstrated that Araguaia ore can be processed using the proven Rotary Kiln Electric Furnace (�RKEF�) process in order to produce a saleable ferronickel product that meets the requirements of international stainless steel plants.

In June 2013, despite difficult market conditions, we successfully completed a �3.08 million placing before expenses, to help support the development at Araguaia.  The placing underpinned the continued strong support Horizonte has from its major shareholders, including Teck Resources and Henderson Global Investors.  Following this placing Horizonte had a strong net cash position which will take the Company through to the delivery of the PFS at Araguaia and 2014.

With the funding secured, in July 2013, Snowden Mining Consultants was appointed to deliver a PFS at Araguaia.  The study is looking at preliminary pit optimisation and development of feed schedules for a RKEF process plant for two options: the first, a single line at 900,000 tonnes per annum, the second with two lines at 2.7 million tonnes per annum.  The former of these options could offer lower capital expenditure.  Additional aspects necessary for the viability of Araguaia will also be included in the PFS, such as project infrastructure planning and a Social and Environmental Impact Assessment and we look forward to the culmination of this study, targeted for Q1 2014, as we progress the project up the development curve towards production.

One of the recurring question marks about Araguaia and future production from the project is the nickel price.  Mining has been and always will be a cyclical business, but the need for metals will persist, and that includes nickel.  Nickel-containing materials play a major role in our everyday lives � food preparation equipment, mobile phones, medical equipment, transport, buildings, power generation, rechargeable batteries � the list is almost endless.  These materials are selected because, compared with other materials, they offer better corrosion resistance, strength at high and low temperatures, as well as a range of special magnetic and electronic properties.

Most important are alloys of iron, nickel and chromium, of which stainless steels (frequently 8-12% nickel) represent the largest volume.  Nickel based alloys � like stainless steel but with higher nickel contents � are used for more demanding applications such as gas turbines and some chemical plants.  In addition, iron and nickel alloys are used in electronics and specialist engineering, while copper-nickel alloys are used for coinage and marine engineering.  There are about 3,000 nickel-containing alloys in everyday use.  About 90% of all new nickel sold each year goes into alloys, two-thirds going into stainless steel.

Nickel use is growing at approximately 4% to 5% each year while use of nickel-containing stainless steel is growing at around 6%.  The fastest growth today is seen in the newly and rapidly industrialising countries, especially in Asia.  Nickel-containing materials are needed to modernise infrastructure, for industry and to meet the material aspirations of their populations.

China and India, the two leading emerging economies, are experiencing roughly 10 times the economic acceleration of the Industrial Revolution, on 100 times the scale, resulting in an economic force that is over 1,000 times as big.  In emerging market economies today, the population of cities grows by 65 million people per year or the equivalent of seven cities the size of Chicago.  Over the next 15 years, some 440 emerging market cities will generate nearly half of global GDP and 40% of global consumption growth.

The rapid cut-back of expansion to slow long-term supply, will prolong a super cycle scarcity premium for explorers.  That is where Araguaia fits in; an advanced major nickel project progressing towards the full feasibility stage which can fill the gap that will inevitably appear in the nickel supply and that will see us realise higher prices than those currently in play.

The recent announcement by the Indonesian government, banning all exports of direct shipping nickel ore, should have a positive effect on the nickel price in the mid-term if the ban continues to be fully implemented.  Indonesia was estimated to account for around 18% to 20% of all nickel ore imports to China.  This growth from only 14% in 2007 has been driven by demand from China, to feed the country�s increasing consumption of nickel pig iron and latterly RKEF production.

The fundamental issue, even without the strict implementation of the ban, is that beyond 2016 the nickel industry is facing a lack of new projects to continue to supply the industry.  This positions Horizonte with its Araguaia project prominently to take advantage of this new exciting nickel cycle.  Metal forecasters predict that by the end of 2016 a switch will occur in the supply-demand dynamics of nickel resulting in underlying demand outstripping supply and therefore an upwards drive in nickel prices as we bring Araguaia on line.

Having completed a number of major de risking milestones at Araguaia during 2013 in terms of geology and metallurgy and with nickel futures in mind, we are eager to progress the project towards production.  We therefore look forward to detailing the results of the PFS as soon as available and proving the potential viability of this major nickel project for Horizonte as we continue along our clear path to generate significant value uplift for shareholders.

The on-going support Horizonte Minerals has had from our loyal shareholders and the hard work and dedication shown by our management team and Board is greatly appreciated and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all, and I look forward to another positive and successful period ahead.

David J. Hall
Chairman

For further information visit www.horizonteminerals.com or contact:

The Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2013, together with the Management�s Discussion and Analysis prepared as at 31 December 2013 and Notice of Meeting and Management Information Circular with Respect to the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders to be held on 25 March 2014 will be posted to shareholders and are available on the Company�s website at www.horizonteminerals.com  and on Sedar www.Sedar.com

The Annual General Meeting of the Company will be held at 2:30 pm on 25 March 2014 at FinnCap 60 New Broad Street London EC2M 1JJ

Financial Statements

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income

For the year ended 31 December 2013

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position

As at 31 December 2013

Company Statement of Financial Position

As at 31 December 2013

Statements of Changes in Equity

For the year ended 31 December 2013

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows

For the year ended 31 December 2013

Major non-cash transactions

During the year ended 31 December 2013 additions to intangible exploration assets included �80,109 (2012: �73,664) in relation to depreciation charges on property, plant and equipment used for exploration activities.

On 7 February 2012 the Company issued 8,500,000 new ordinary shares of 1 pence per share each to Lara Exploration Limited at a premium of 14 pence per share in consideration for the acquisition of the Vila Oito and Floresta nickel laterite projects.

Company Statement of Cash Flows

For year ended 31 December 2013

Major non-cash transactions

On 7 February 2012 the Company issued 8,500,000 new ordinary shares of 1 pence per share each to Lara Exploration Limited at a premium of 14 pence per share in consideration for the acquisition of the Vila Oito and Floresta nickel laterite projects.

The non-cash movement in contingent consideration of �118,198 (2012: �356,253) was charged to a subsidiary undertaking and adjusted for in the loans to subsidiary undertakings balance.

Notes to the Financial Statements

1 General information

The principal activity of Horizonte Minerals Plc (�the Company�) and its subsidiaries (together �the Group�) is the exploration and development of precious and base metals. The Company�s shares are listed on the Alternative Investment Market of the London Stock Exchange and on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The Company is incorporated and domiciled in the UK.

The address of its registered office is 26 Dover Street, London W1S 4LY.

2 Summary of significant accounting policies

The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these Financial Statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented.

2.1 Basis of preparation

These Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the European Union (EU), IFRIC interpretations and those parts of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to companies reporting under IFRS. The Financial Statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the revaluation of certain subsidiaries� assets and liabilities to fair value for consolidation purposes.

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Group�s Accounting Policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the Financial Statements, are disclosed in Note 4.

2.2 Changes in accounting policy and disclosures

a) New and amended standards adopted by the Group

A number of new standards and amendments to standards and interpretations are effective for the annual period beginning after 1 January 2013 and have been applied in preparing these financial statements.

Amendment to IAS 1, �Financial statement presentation� regarding other comprehensive income became effective during the period. Items in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income that may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequently periods are now presented separately from items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods.

IFRS 13, �Fair value measurement� became effective during the period. The standard requires specific disclosures on fair values, some of which replace existing disclosure requirements in IFRS 7, �Financial instruments: Disclosures�. The fair values of cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables and trade and other payables approximate to their book values due to the short maturity periods of these financial instruments. Available for sale financial assets consist of equity investments whose fair value is determined by reference to quoted market prices (level 1 in the fair value measurement hierarchy).

b) New and amended standards, and interpretations mandatory for the first time for the financial year beginning 1 January 2013, but not currently relevant to the Group

A number of new standards and amendments to standards and interpretations are effective for annual periods beginning after 1 January 2013, and have not been applied in preparing these financial statements. None of these is expected to have a significant effect on the financial statements of the Company or Group.

IAS 19, �Employee benefits� eliminate the option to defer the recognition of gains and losses, known as the �corridor method�; streamline the presentation of changes in assets and liabilities arising from defined benefit plans, including requiring re-measurements to be presented in other comprehensive income; and enhance the disclosure requirements for defined benefit plans, providing better information about the characteristics of defined benefit plans and the risks that entities are exposed to through participation in those plans.

IFRS 7, �Financial Instruments: Disclosures� was amended for asset and liability offsetting. This amendment requires disclosure of information that will enable users of financial statements to evaluate the effect or potential effect of netting arrangements, including rights of set-off associated with the entity�s recognised financial assets and recognised financial liabilities, on the entity�s financial position.

Amendment to IFRS 1, �First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards� on government loans, addresses how first-time adopters would account for a government loan with a below-market rate of interest when transitioning to IFRS. It also adds an exception to the retrospective application of IFRS, which provides the same relief to first-time adopters granted to existing preparers of IFRS Financial Statements when the requirement was incorporated into IAS 20 �Accounting for Government Grants and Disclosure of Government Assistance� in 2008.

IFRIC 20, �Stripping Costs in the Production Phase of a Surface Mine�, clarifies when production stripping should lead to the recognition of an asset and how that asset should be measured, both initially and in subsequent periods.

�Annual Improvements 2009 � 2011 Cycle� sets out amendments to various IFRSs as follows:

�         An amendment to IFRS 1, �First-time Adoption� clarifies whether an entity may apply IFRS 1:

(a)       if the entity meets the criteria for applying IFRS 1 and has applied IFRS 1 in a previous reporting period; or

(b)       if the entity meets the criteria for applying IFRS 1 and has applied IFRSs in a previous reporting period when IFRS 1 did not exist.

�         The amendment to IFRS 1 also addresses the transitional provisions for borrowing costs relating to qualifying assets for which the commencement date for capitalisation was before the date of transition to IFRSs.

�         An amendment to IAS 1, �Presentation of Financial Statements� clarifies the requirements for providing comparative information when an entity provides Financial Statements beyond the minimum comparative information requirements.

�         An amendment to IAS 16, �Property, Plant and Equipment� addresses a perceived inconsistency in the classification requirements for servicing equipment.

�         An amendment to IAS 32, �Financial Instruments: Presentation� addresses perceived inconsistencies between IAS 12, �Income Taxes� and IAS 32 with regard to recognising the consequences of income tax relating to distributions to holders of an equity instrument and to transaction costs of an equity transaction.

�         An amendment to IAS 34, �Interim Financial Reporting� clarifies the requirements on segment information for total assets and liabilities for each reportable segment.

c) New and amended standards and interpretations issued but not yet effective for the financial year beginning 1 January 2013 and not early adopted

The standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the financial statements are disclosed below. The Company and Group intend to adopt these standards, if applicable, when they become effective.

IAS 27, �Separate Financial Statements�, replaces the current version of IAS 27, �Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements� as a result of the issue of IFRS 10. The revised standard includes the requirements relating to separate financial statements. The revised standard becomes effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

IAS 28, �Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures�, replaces the current version of IAS 28,�Investments in Associates�, as a result of the issue of IFRS 11. The revised standard includes the requirements for associates and joint ventures that have to be equity accounted following the issue of IFRS 1. The Group is yet to assess full impact of the revised standard and intends to adopt IAS 28 (revised) no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

Amendment to IAS 19, �Defined Benefit Plans: Employee Contributions�, provides guidance added to IAS 19 Employee Benefits on accounting for contributions from employees or third parties set out in the formal terms of a defined benefit plan. The Directors do not believe that this will have an impact on the Group however will be adopted no later than accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

Amendment to IAS 32, �Offsetting Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities�, add application guidance to address inconsistencies identified in applying some of the criteria when offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities. This includes clarifying the meaning of �currently has a legally enforceable right of set-off� and that some gross settlement systems may be considered equivalent to net settlement. The Group is yet to assess the full impact of the amendment to IAS 32 and intends to adopt the amended standard no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

Amendment to IAS 36, �Recoverable Amount Disclosures for Non-Financial Assets�, to reduce the circumstances in which the recoverable amount of assets or cash-generating units is required to be disclosed, clarify the disclosures required, and to introduce an explicit requirement to disclose the discount rate used in determining impairment (or reversals) where recoverable amount (based on fair value less costs of disposal) is determined using a present value technique. The Group is yet to assess full impact of the revised standard and intends to adopt the amendment to IAS 36 no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

Amendment to IAS 39, �Novation of Derivatives and Continuation of Hedge Accounting�, make it clear that there is no need to discontinue hedge accounting if a hedging derivative is novated, provided certain criteria are met. The Group is yet to assess full impact and intends to adopt the amendment to IAS 39 no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

IFRS 9, �Financial instruments�, addresses the classification, measurement and recognition of financial assets and financial liabilities. IFRS 9 was issued in November 2009 and October 2010. It replaces parts of IAS 39 that relate to the classification and measurement of financial instruments. IFRS 9 requires financial assets to be classified into two measurement categories: those measured as at fair value and those measured at amortised cost. The determination is made at initial recognition. The classification depends on the entity�s business model for managing its financial instruments and the contractual cash flow characteristics for the instrument. For financial liabilities, the standard retains most of the IAS 39 requirements. The main change is that, in cases where the fair value option is taken for financial liabilities, the part of a fair value change due to an entity�s own credit risk is recorded in other comprehensive income rather than the income statement, unless this creates an accounting mismatch. The Group is yet to assess IFRS 9�s full impact and intends to adopt IFRS 9 no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014, subject to endorsement by the EU. The Group will also consider the impact of the remaining phases of IFRS 9 when completed by the Board.

IFRS 10, �Consolidated financial statements�, builds on existing principles by identifying the concept of control as the determining factor in whether an entity should be included within the consolidated financial statements of the parent company. The standard provides additional guidance to assist in the determination of control where this is difficult to assess. The Group is yet to assess IFRS 10�s full impact and intends to adopt IFRS 10 no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

IFRS 11, �Joint Arrangements� provides for a more realistic reflection of joint arrangements by focusing on the rights and obligations of the arrangement, rather than its legal form. There are two types of joint arrangement; joint operations and joint ventures. Joint operations arise where a joint operator has rights to the assets and obligations relating to the arrangement and therefore accounts for its share of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses. Joint ventures arise where the joint venture has rights to the net assets of the arrangement and therefore equity accounts for its interest. Proportional consolidation of joint ventures is no longer allowed. The Group is yet to assess IFRS 11�s full impact and intends to adopt IFRS 11 no later than the accounting period beginning on or after
1 January 2014.

IFRS 12, �Disclosures of interests in other entities�, includes the disclosure requirements for all forms of interests in entities, including joint arrangements, associates, special purpose vehicles and other off Statement of Financial Position vehicles. The Group is yet to assess IFRS 12�s full impact and intends to adopt IFRS 12 no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

Amendments to IFRS 10, �Consolidated Financial Statements�, IFRS 12, �Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities� and IAS 27, �Separate Financial Statements�, provide �investment entities� (as defined) an exemption from the consolidation of particular subsidiaries and instead require that an investment entity measure the investment in each eligible subsidiary at fair value through profit or loss in accordance with IFRS 9 Financial Instruments or IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement. The Group is yet to assess the full impact of these amendments and intends to adopt the amended standards no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

Amendments to IFRS 10 �Consolidated Financial Statements�, IFRS 11 �Joint Arrangements� and IFRS 12 �Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities� clarify the IASB�s intention when first issuing the transition guidance in IFRS 10, provide similar relief in IFRS 11 and IFRS 12 from the presentation or adjustment of comparative information for periods prior to the immediately preceding period, and provide additional transition relief by eliminating the requirement to present comparatives for the disclosures relating to unconsolidated structured entities for any period before the first annual period for which IFRS 12 is applied. The Group plans to adopt these amendments no later than the annual period beginning on or after 1 January 2014.

IFRIC 21, �Levies�, provides guidance on when to recognise a liability for a levy imposed by a government, both for levies that are accounted for in accordance with IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets and those where the timing and amount of the levy is certain. It provides the following guidance on recognition of a liability to pay levies:

�         The liability is recognised progressively if the obligating event occurs over a period of time;

�         If an obligation is triggered on reaching a minimum threshold, the liability is recognised when that minimum threshold is reached.

The Group is yet to assess the full impact and intends to adopt the standard no later than the accounting period beginning on or after 1 January 2014, subject to endorsement by the EU.

�Annual Improvements 2010 � 2012 Cycle� sets out amendments to various IFRSs and provides a vehicle for making non-urgent but necessary amendments to IFRSs:

�         IFRS 2 �Share-based Payment�: amendment to the definition of a vesting condition.

�         IFRS 3 �Business Combinations�: amendments to the accounting for contingent consideration in a business combination.

�         IFRS 8 �Operating Segments�: aments to the aggregation of operating segments and the reconciliation of the total of the reportable segments� assets to the entity�s assets.

�         IFRS 13 �Fair Value Measurement�: amendments to short-term receivables and payables.

�         IAS 16 �Property, Plant and Equipment�: amendments to the revaluation method in relation to the proportionate restatement of accumulated depreciation.

�         IAS 24 �Related Party Disclosures�: amendments regarding key management personnel.

�         IAS 38 �Intangible Assets�: amendments to the revaluation method in relation to the proportionate restatement of accumulated depreciation.

The Group intends to adopt the amended standards no later than the annual period beginning on or after 1 July 2014, subject to EU endorsement.

�Annual Improvements 2011 � 2013 Cycle� sets out amendments to various IFRSs and provides a vehicle for making non-urgent but necessary amendments to IFRSs:

�         IFRS 1 �First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards�: amendment to the meaning of �effective IFRSs�.

�         IFRS 3 �Business Combinations�: amendments to the scope exceptions for joint ventures.

�         IFRS 13 �Fair Value Measurement�: amendments to the scope of paragraph 52 (portfolio exception).

�         IAS 40 �Investment Property�: amendments clarifying the interrelationship between IFRS 3 and IAS 40 when classifying property as investment property or owner-occupied property.

The Group intends to adopt the amended standards no later than the annual period beginning on or after 1 July 2014, subject to EU endorsement.

2.3 Basis of consolidation

Horizonte Minerals Plc was incorporated on 16 January 2006. On 23 March 2006 Horizonte Minerals Plc acquired the entire issued share capital of Horizonte Exploration Limited (HEL) by way of a share for share exchange. The transaction was treated as a group reconstruction and was accounted for using the merger accounting method as the entities were under common control before and after the acquisition.

Subsidiaries are all entities over which the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one half of the voting rights. The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the Group controls another entity. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are de-consolidated from the date that control ceases.

Other than for the acquisition of HEL as noted above, the Group uses the acquisition method of accounting to account for business combinations. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary is the fair value of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred and the equity interests issued by the Group. The consideration transferred includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred unless they result from the issuance of shares, in which case they are offset against the premium on those shares within equity.

If an acquisition is achieved in stages, the acquisition date carrying value of the acquirer�s previously held equity interest in the acquiree is remeasured to fair value at the acquisition date through profit or loss.

Any contingent consideration to be transferred by the Group is recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. Subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration that is deemed to be an asset or a liability is recognised in accordance with IAS 39 either in profit or loss or as a change in other comprehensive income. The unwinding of the discount on contingent consideration liabilities is recognised as a finance charge within profit or loss. Contingent consideration that is classified as equity is not remeasured, and its subsequent settlement is accounted for within equity.

The excess of the consideration transferred and the acquisition date fair value of any previous equity interest in the acquiree over the fair value of the Group�s share of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If this is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired in the case of a bargain purchase, the difference is recognised directly in profit or loss.

Inter-company transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are eliminated. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with policies adopted by the Group.

Investments in subsidiaries are accounted for at cost less impairment.

References to various joint venture arrangements in the Chairman�s Statement and the Operations Review do not meet the definition of joint ventures under IAS 31 �Interests in Joint Ventures� and therefore these Financial Statements do not reflect the accounting treatments required under IAS 31.

The following 100% owned subsidiaries have been included within the consolidated Financial Statements:

PMA Geoquimica Ltda, a subsidiary of Brazil Mineral Holdings Ltd, was dissolved during the year and South America Resources Ltd and Brazil Mineral Holdings Ltd are in the process of being dissolved.

2.4 Going concern

The Group�s business activities together with the factors likely to affect its future development, performance and position are set out in the Chairman�s Statement on pages 4 and 5; in addition note 3 to the Financial Statements includes the Group�s objectives, policies and processes for managing its capital; its financial risk management objectives; details of its financial instruments and its exposure to credit and liquidity risk.

The Financial Statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. Although the Group�s assets are not generating revenues and an operating loss has been reported, the Directors consider that the Group has sufficient funds to undertake its operating activities for a period of at least the next 12 months including any additional payments required in relation to its current exploration projects. The Group has considerable financial resources which will be sufficient to fund the Group�s committed expenditure both operationally and on its exploration projects for the foreseeable future. However, as additional projects are identified and the Araguaia project moves towards production, additional funding will be required. The amount of funding is estimated without any certainty at the point of approval of these Financial Statements and the Group will be required to raise additional funds either via an issue of equity or through the issuance of debt. The Directors are confident that funds will be forthcoming if and when they are required.

The Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group and Company have adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future. Thus they continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing these Financial Statements.

2.5 Intangible Assets

(a) Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group�s share of the net identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition. Goodwill arising on the acquisition of subsidiaries is included in �intangible assets�. Goodwill is tested annually for impairment and carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold.

Goodwill is allocated to cash generating units for the purpose of impairment testing. The allocation is made to those cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the business combination in which the goodwill arose, identified according to operating segment.

(b) Exploration and evaluation assets

The Group recognises expenditure as exploration and evaluation assets when it determines that those assets will be successful in finding specific mineral resources. Expenditure included in the initial measurement of exploration and evaluation assets and which are classified as intangible assets relate to the acquisition of rights to explore, topographical, geological, geochemical and geophysical studies, exploratory drilling, trenching, sampling and activities to evaluate the technical feasibility and commercial viability of extracting a mineral resource. Capitalisation of pre-production expenditure ceases when the mining property is capable of commercial production.

Exploration and evaluation assets arising on business combinations are included at their acquisition-date fair value in accordance with IFRS 3 (revised) �Business combinations�. Other exploration and evaluation assets and all subsequent expenditure on assets acquired as part of a business combination are recorded and held at cost.

Exploration and evaluation assets are assessed for impairment when facts and circumstances suggest that the carrying amount of an asset may exceed its recoverable amount. The assessment is carried out by allocating exploration and evaluation assets to cash generating units, which are based on specific projects or geographical areas.

Whenever the exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources in cash generating units does not lead to the discovery of commercially viable quantities of mineral resources or the Company has decided to discontinue such activities of that unit, the associated expenditures are written off to profit or loss.

2.6 Property, plant and equipment

All property, plant and equipment is stated at historic cost less accumulated depreciation. Historic cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the items.

All repairs and maintenance costs are charged to profit or loss during the financial period in which they are incurred.

Depreciation is charged on a straight-line basis so as to write off the cost of assets, over their estimated useful lives, using the straight-line method, on the following bases:

An asset�s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the assets carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount.

Gains and losses on disposal are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying amount and are recognised within �Other (losses)/gains� in the Statement of Comprehensive Income.

2.7 Impairment

Assets that have an indefinite useful life; for example, goodwill or intangible exploration assets not ready to use, are not subject to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment. Intangible assets that are subject to amortisation and tangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset�s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset�s fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash generating units). Non-financial assets other than goodwill that suffered an impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at each reporting date.

2.8 Foreign currency translation

(a) Functional and presentation currency

Items included in the Financial Statements of the Group�s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (the �functional currency�). The functional currency of the UK and Isle of Man entities is Sterling and the functional currency of the Brazilian and Peruvian entities is Brazilian Real and Peruvian Nuevo Sol respectively. The Consolidated Financial Statements are presented in Pounds Sterling, rounded to the nearest pound, which is the Company�s functional and Group�s presentation currency.

(b) Transactions and balances

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions or valuation where such items are re-measured. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in profit or loss.

(c) Group companies

The results and financial position of all the Group�s entities (none of which has the currency of a hyperinflationary economy) that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:

(1)       assets and liabilities for each statement of financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that statement of financial position;

(2)       each component of profit or loss is translated at average exchange rates during the accounting period (unless this average is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the dates of the transactions); and

(3)       all resulting exchange differences are recognised in other comprehensive income.

On consolidation, exchange differences arising from the translation of the net investment in foreign entities, and of monetary items receivable from foreign subsidiaries for which settlement is neither planned nor likely to occur in the foreseeable future are taken to other comprehensive income. When a foreign operation is sold, such exchange differences are recognised in profit or loss as part of the gain or loss on sale.

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign entity and translated at the closing rate.

2.9 Financial assets

Financial assets within the scope of IAS 39 are classified as loans and receivables or available-for-sale financial assets, as appropriate. The Group determines the classification of its financial assets at initial recognition.

(a) Available-for-sale financial investments

Available-for-sale financial investments consist of equity investments that are neither classified as held for trading nor designated at fair value through profit or loss. After initial recognition, available-for-sale financial investments are subsequently measured at fair value with unrealised gains or losses recognised as other comprehensive income in the available-for-sale reserve until the investment is derecognised, at which time the cumulative gain or loss is recognised in other operating income, or the investment is determined to be impaired, when the cumulative loss is reclassified from the available-for-sale reserve to the Income Statement in finance costs. The fair value of financial instruments that are traded in active markets at each reporting date is determined by reference to quoted market prices.

(b) Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method, less impairment. The Group�s loans and receivables comprise �trade and other receivables� in the Statement of Financial Position.

Derecognition

A financial asset is derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired.

2.10 Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at bank and in hand and demand deposits with banks and other financial institutions, that are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.

2.11 Taxation

The tax credit or expense for the period comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognised in the Income Statement, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In this case, the tax is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

The charge for current tax is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period in the countries where the company and its subsidiaries operate and generate taxable income. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation. It establishes provisions where appropriate on the basis of amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.

Deferred tax is accounted for using the liability method in respect of temporary differences arising from differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit. However, deferred tax liabilities are not recognised if they arise from the initial recognition of goodwill; deferred tax is not accounted for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss.

In principle, deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences and deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are recognised on tax losses carried forward to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit through future taxable profits is probable.

Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, and interests in joint ventures, except where the Company is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities where there is an intention to settle the balances on a net basis.

Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply to the period when the asset is realised or the liability is settled.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not discounted.

2.12 Share capital

Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new ordinary shares or options are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

2.13 Trade payables

Trade payables are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers. Accounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less. If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities.

Trade payables are initially recognised at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

2.14 Operating leases

Leases of assets under which a significant amount of the risks and benefits of ownership are effectively retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Operating lease payments are charged to the Income Statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the respective leases.

2.15 Share-based payments and incentives

The Group operates equity-settled, share-based compensation plans, under which the entity receives services from employees as consideration for equity instruments (options) of the Group. The fair value of employee services received in exchange for the grant of share options are recognised as an expense. The total expense to be apportioned over the vesting period is determined by reference to the fair value of the options granted:

�         including any market performance conditions;

�         excluding the impact of any service and non-market performance vesting conditions; and

�         including the impact of any non-vesting conditions.

Non-market performance and service conditions are included in assumptions about the number of options that are expected to vest. The total expense is recognised over the vesting period, which is the period over which all of the specified vesting conditions are to be satisfied. At the end of each reporting period the Group revises its estimate of the number of options that are expected to vest.

It recognises the impact of the revision of original estimates, if any, in profit or loss, with a corresponding adjustment to equity.

When options are exercised, the Company issues new shares. The proceeds received net of any directly attributable transaction costs are credited to share capital (nominal value) and share premium.

The fair value of goods or services received in exchange for shares is recognised as an expense.

2.16 Segment reporting

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the Chief Executive Officer, the Company�s chief operating decision-maker.

2.17 Finance income

Interest income is recognised using the effective interest method, taking into account the principal amounts outstanding and the interest rates applicable.

3 Financial risk management

3.1 Financial risk factors

The main financial risks to which the Group�s activities are exposed are liquidity and fluctuations on foreign currency. The Group�s overall risk management programme focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the Group�s financial performance.

Risk management is carried out by the Board of Directors under policies approved at the quarterly Board meetings. The Board frequently discusses principles for overall risk management including policies for specific areas such as foreign exchange.

(a) Liquidity and related market risks

In keeping with similar sized mineral exploration groups, the Group�s continued future operations depend on the ability to raise sufficient working capital through the issue of equity share capital. The Group monitors its cash and future funding requirements through the use of cash flow forecasts.

All cash, with the exception of that required for immediate working capital requirements, is held on short-term deposit.

(b) Foreign currency risks

The Group operates internationally and is exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currency exposures, primarily with respect to the Brazilian Real, US Dollar and the UK pound.

Foreign exchange risk arises from future commercial transactions, recognised assets and liabilities and net investments in foreign operations that are denominated in a foreign currency. The Group holds a proportion of its cash in US Dollars and Brazilian Reals to hedge its exposure to foreign currency fluctuations and recognises the profits and losses resulting from currency fluctuations as and when they arise. The volume of transactions is not deemed sufficient to enter into forward contracts.

At 31 December 2013, if the US Dollar had weakened/strengthened by 5% against Pound Sterling and Brazilian Real with all other variables held constant, post tax loss for the year would have been approximately �58,809/�56,009 higher/lower mainly as a result of foreign exchange losses/gains on translation of US Dollar denominated bank balances.

(c) Interest rate risk

As the Group has no borrowings, it is not exposed to interest rate risk on financial liabilities. The Group�s interest rate risk arises from its cash held on short-term deposit for which the Directors use a mixture of fixed and variable rate deposits. As a result fluctuations in interest rates are not expected to have a significant impact on profit or loss or equity.

(d) Price risk

The Group is exposed to commodity price risk as a result of its operations. However, given the size and stage of the Group�s operations, the costs of managing exposure to commodity price risk exceed any potential benefits. The Directors will revisit the appropriateness of this policy should the Group�s operations change in size or nature. The Group�s listed equity securities are susceptible to price risk arising from uncertainties about future values of the securities.

(e) Credit risk

Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents as well as exposure to joint venture partners including outstanding receivables. The Group maintains cash and short-term deposits with a variety of credit worthy financial institutions and considers the credit ratings of these institutions before investing in order to mitigate against the associated credit risk. Management does not expect any losses from non-performance by joint venture partners.

No debt finance has been utilised and if required this is subject to pre-approval by the Board of Directors. The amount of exposure to any individual counter party is subject to a limit, which is assessed by the Board.

3.2 Capital risk management

The Group�s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group�s ability to continue as a going concern, in order to provide returns for shareholders and to enable the Group to continue its exploration and evaluation activities. The Group has no debt at 31 December 2013 and defines capital based on the total equity of the Company. The Group monitors its level of cash resources available against future planned exploration and evaluation activities and may issue new shares in order to raise further funds from time to time.

As indicated above, the Group holds cash reserves on deposit at several banks and in different currencies until they are required and in order to match where possible with the corresponding liabilities in that currency.

3.3 Fair value estimation

The carrying values of trade receivables and payables are assumed to be approximate to their fair values, due to their short-term nature. The fair value of contingent consideration is estimated by discounting the future contractual cash flows at the Group�s current cost of capital of 7% based on the interest rate available to the Group for a similar financial instrument. As this is an observable input all fair value estimates fall within level 2.

4 Critical accounting estimates and judgements

The preparation of the Financial Statements in conformity with IFRSs requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the end of the reporting period and the reported amount of expenses during the year. Actual results may vary from the estimates used to produce these Financial Statements.

Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include, but are not limited to:

4.1 Impairment of exploration and evaluation costs

Exploration and evaluation costs have a carrying value at 31 December 2013 of �19,754,559 (2012: �20,074,974). Management tests annually whether exploration projects have future economic value in accordance with the accounting policy stated in note 2.5. Each exploration project is subject to an annual review by either a consultant or senior company geologist to determine if the exploration results returned to date warrant further exploration expenditure and have the potential to result in an economic discovery. This review takes into consideration long-term metal prices, anticipated resource volumes and grades, permitting and infrastructure. In the event that a project does not represent an economic exploration target and results indicate there is no additional upside, a decision will be made to discontinue exploration. The Directors have reviewed the estimated value of each project prepared by management and consider a full impairment charge necessary for the El Aguila Project of �738,103 (2012: �nil) and the Falcao Project as at 31 December 2013 of �310,179 (2012: �nil). In 2012 the Tangara Project was fully impaired, with a charge to the Income Statement of �639,505.

4.2 Estimated impairment of goodwill

Goodwill has a carrying value at 31 December 2013 of �287,378 (2012: �342,765). The Group tests annually whether goodwill has suffered any impairment, in accordance with the accounting policy stated in note 2.5.

Management has concluded that there is no impairment charge necessary to the carrying value of goodwill. See also note 10 to the Financial Statements.

4.3 Contingent consideration

Contingent consideration has a carrying value of �2,477,310 at 31 December 2013 (2012: �2,359,112). The contingent consideration arrangement requires the Group to pay the former owners of Teck Cominco Brasil S.A (subsequently renamed Araguaia Niquel Minera��o Ltda) 50% of the tax effect on utilisation of the tax losses existing in Teck Cominco Brasil S.A at the date of acquisition. Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, tax losses that existed at the date of acquisition and which are subsequently utilised in a period greater than 10 years from that date are not subject to the contingent consideration arrangement.

The fair value of this potential consideration has been determined using the operating and financial assumptions in the cash flow model derived from the Preliminary Economic Assessment published by the Company in August 2012 in order to calculate the ability to utilise the acquired tax losses, together with the timing of their utilisation. The Group has used discounted cash flow analysis to determine when it is anticipated that the tax losses will be utilised and any potential contingent consideration paid. These cash flows could be affected by upward or downward movements in several factors to include commodity prices, operating costs, capital expenditure, production levels, grades, recoveries and interest rates.

The carrying value of contingent consideration would not be affected were the operating cash flows to vary by as much as 50% from management�s estimates, as the tax losses are utilised in the first year of operations in either case.

4.4 Current and deferred taxation

The Group is subject to income taxes in numerous jurisdictions. Judgment is required in determining the worldwide provision for such taxes. The Group recognises liabilities for anticipated tax issues based on estimates of whether additional taxes will be due. Where the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will affect the current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities in the period in which such determination is made.

Deferred tax liabilities have been recognised on the fair value gains in exploration assets arising on the acquisitions of Araguaia Niquel Minera��o Ltda (formerly Teck Cominco Brasil S.A) and Lontra Empreendimentos e Participa��es Ltda. A deferred tax asset has been recognised on acquisition of Araguaia Niquel Minera��o Ltda for the utilisation of the available tax losses acquired. Should the actual final outcome regarding the utilisation of these losses be different from management�s estimations, the Group may need to revise the carrying value of this asset.

4.5 Share-based payment transactions

The Group has made awards of options and warrants over its unissued share capital to certain Directors and employees as part of their remuneration package.

The valuation of these options and warrants involves making a number of critical estimates relating to price volatility, future dividend yields, expected life of the options and forfeiture rates. These assumptions have been described in more detail in note 17.

Were the actual number of options that vest to differ by 10% from management�s estimates the overall option charge would increase/ decrease by �77,813.

4.6 Other areas

Other estimates include but are not limited to employee benefit liabilities; future cash flows associated with assets; useful lives for depreciation and fair value of financial instruments.

5 Segmental reporting

The Group operates principally in the UK and Brazil, with operations managed on a project by project basis within each geographical area. Activities in the UK are mainly administrative in nature whilst the activities in Brazil relate to exploration and evaluation work. The reports used by the chief operating decision-maker are based on these geographical segments.

Inter segment revenues are calculated and recorded in accordance with the underlying intra group service agreements.

A reconciliation of adjusted loss from operations per reportable segment to loss before tax is provided as follows:

6 Other operating income

Other option fees in 2012 relate to non-refundable payments made for the right to first refusal on the purchase of one of the Group�s exploration projects.

7 Operating loss

Loss from operations is stated after charging the following:

Project and fixed asset impairment costs in 2013 of �1,033,240 consist of the impairment charge on intangible assets attributable to the El Aguila and Falcao projects (refer note 10) of �738,103 and �310,179 respectively. A receipt of �15,042 (US$25,000) in connection with the signing of a purchase and sale agreement for the Falcao project in December 2013 was netted off against the impairment of that project so that the net impact on profit or loss of the impairment of Falcao amounted to �295,037 (see note 10 Intangible Assets). Project and fixed asset impairment costs of in 2012 of �700,397 consist of the impairment charge on intangible assets attributable to the Tangara project (refer note 10) of �639,505 and the cost of an option over a licence which was acquired and lapsed in that year of �60,892.

8 Finance income and costs

9 Taxation

Income tax expense

Reconciliation of current tax

No tax charge or credit arises on the loss for the year.

The weighted average applicable tax rate of 23.1% used is a combination of the 23.25% effective standard rate of corporation tax in the UK, 34% Brazilian corporation tax and 30% Peruvian corporation tax. During 2013 the Brazil registered subsidiaries elected to adopt the Actual Profit system to determine income tax, as opposed to the prior year where as during 2012, they adopted the Presumed Income method. As a result the losses incurred during the current year are eligible for tax purposes.

Deferred income tax

An analysis of deferred tax assets and liabilities is set out below.

The gross movement on the deferred income tax account is as follows:

The movement in deferred income tax assets and liabilities during the year, without taking into consideration the offsetting of balances within the same tax jurisdiction, is as follows:

Deferred tax assets are recognised on tax losses carried forward to the extent that the realisation of the related tax benefit through future taxable profits is probable.

The Group has tax losses of approximately �17,750,903 (2012: �18,479,270) in Brazil and excess management charges of approximately �2,387,000 (2012: �2,199,000) in the UK available to carry forward against future taxable profits. With the exception of the deferred tax asset arising on acquisition of Araguaia Niquel Minera��o Ltda (formerly Teck Cominco Brasil S.A.) in 2011, no deferred tax asset has been recognised in respect of tax losses because of uncertainty over the timing of future taxable profits against which the losses may be offset.

10 Intangible assets

Intangible assets comprise exploration and evaluation costs and goodwill. Exploration and evaluation costs comprise acquired and internally generated assets. Additions are net of funds received from the Group�s strategic partners under various former joint venture agreements, amounting to �nil (2012: �1,056,131).