Flow-Through Shares

A Canadian structure that passes exploration tax deductions to the buyer, so the shares price at a premium but the money is ring-fenced for exploration.

Definition

A Canadian tax incentive that allows mining exploration companies to transfer tax deductions for exploration expenses to investors. Flow-through financing is a common method for junior miners to raise capital for exploration programs.

Why it matters

Flow-through money can only be spent on qualifying Canadian exploration. That is good for shareholders — it funds drilling rather than salaries — but it also means a company flush with flow-through cash may still be short of money for anything else.

In practice

Flow-through raises often price above market because the tax benefit is worth something to the buyer. A premium raise is not evidence of strong demand for the equity itself.

Where people go wrong

Flow-through buyers are frequently tax-motivated rather than mining-motivated, and a portion sells as soon as the hold period ends. Year-end flow-through rounds often carry a predictable overhang into the new year.

See also

  • Private Placement A capital raising method where securities are sold directly to a small number of investors rather than through
  • Accredited Investor An investor who meets specific income or net worth requirements and is permitted to participate in certain pri
  • Greenfield Exploration Exploration activities conducted in areas with no previous mining or exploration history. Greenfield projects

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