Category: Base Metals

Riverside Announces Filing of Its Management Information Circular in Connection with Its Special Meeting to Approve Spinout Transaction with Blue Jay Gold

Post author By admin
Post date February 28, 2025

~Confirms receipt of the Interim Order, files Meeting Materials, and announces another round of Blue Jay financing~

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – February 28, 2025) – Riverside Resources Inc. (TSXV: RRI) (OTCQB: RVSDF) (FSE: 5YY) (“Riverside” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that its management information circular (the “Information Circular“), form of proxy and letter of transmittal, (together with the Information Circular, the “Meeting Materials“) in respect of its annual and special meeting (the “Meeting“) of Riverside shareholders (the “Riverside Shareholders“) to approve various matters in connection with the previously announced plan of arrangement (the “Arrangement“) on January 28, 2025 involving Blue Jay Gold Corp. (“Blue Jay“) are being filed today on Riverside’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. and provided on Riverside’s website at www.rivres.com. Riverside is using the notice and access provisions under applicable securities laws to provide Riverside Shareholders with easy electronic access to the Information Circular and other Meeting Materials.

If the Arrangement is approved at the Meeting, Riverside will distribute its common shares (each, a “Blue Jay Share“) in Blue Jay to the Riverside Shareholders by way of a statutory plan of arrangement (the “Plan of Arrangement“) under section 288 of the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the “Transaction“). Following the Arrangement, Riverside Shareholders will hold shares in two reporting issuers: Riverside and Blue Jay. Blue Jay is expected to make an application to list the Blue Jay Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV“).

Blue Jay currently holds all right and title to the Pichette-Clist Gold Project, the Oakes Gold Project and the Duc Gold Project in Northwestern, Ontario (the “Ontario Properties“).

Information about the Meeting and Receipt of Interim Court Order

On February 14, 2025, Riverside obtained an interim order (the “Interim Order“) from the British Columbia Supreme Court (the “Court“) in connection with the Arrangement, authorizing the calling and holding of the Meeting and other matters related to the conduct of the Meeting. At the Meeting, the Riverside Shareholders will be asked to consider and, if deemed advisable, pass a special resolution (the “Arrangement Resolution“) to approve Arrangement, in accordance with the terms of an arrangement agreement (the “Arrangement Agreement“) entered into by the Company and Blue Jay on January 27, 2025.

The Meeting is scheduled to be held on March 31, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. (Vancouver time) at Suite 550, 800 West Pender Street, Vancouver, British Columbia. At the Meeting, Riverside Shareholders will be asked to approve the Arrangement Resolution.

The Meeting Materials contain important information regarding the Transaction, how Riverside Shareholders can participate and vote at the Meeting, the background that led to the Transaction and the reasons for the unanimous determinations of the board of directors of the Company (the “Riverside Board“) that the Transaction is in the best interests of the Company and is fair to Riverside Shareholders. Shareholders should carefully review all of the Meeting Materials as they contain important information concerning the Transaction and the rights and entitlements of Shareholders thereunder.

Reasons for the Arrangement

Riverside believes that the Arrangement is in the best interests of Riverside for numerous reasons, including:

At the moment, the capital markets value the Pichette-Clist Gold Project, the Oakes Gold Project, and the Duc Gold Project together with all of Riverside’s other properties. By completing the Arrangement, the markets will value the Pichette-Clist Gold Project, the Oakes Gold Project, and the Duc Gold Project separately and independently of Riverside’s other properties, which should create additional value for Riverside Shareholders.
Separating the Pichette-Clist Gold Project, the Oakes Gold Project, and the Duc Gold Project from Riverside’s other properties is expected to accelerate the exploration of the Pichette-Clist Gold Project, the Oakes Gold Project, and the Duc Gold Project.
Riverside Shareholders will benefit by holding shares in two separate public companies.
Upon completion of the Arrangement, Blue Jay will have a separate board and management which will include members with specialized skills necessary to advance the Pichette-Clist Gold Project, Oakes Gold Project, and Duc Gold Project.
Separating Riverside and Blue Jay will expand Blue Jay’s potential shareholder base by allowing investors that want specific ownership in a portfolio of Canadian exploration assets like the Pichette-Clist Gold Project, the Oakes Gold Project, and the Duc Gold Project to invest directly in Blue Jay rather than through Riverside.
The Arrangement and separation of the companies will enable each company to pursue independent growth and capital allocation strategies.
The Pichette-Clist Gold Project, the Oakes Gold Project, and the Duc Gold Project are not required for Riverside’s primary business focus which will remain project generation and advancement through joint ventures and similar arrangements.

In the course of its deliberations, the Riverside Board also identified and considered a variety of risks and potentially negative factors, including, but not limited to, the risks factors set out in the Information Circular and the documents incorporated by reference therein.

The foregoing discussion summarizes the material information and factors considered by the Riverside Board in their consideration of the Plan of Arrangement. The Riverside Board collectively reached its unanimous decision with respect to the Plan of Arrangement in light of the factors described above and other factors that each member of the Riverside Board felt were appropriate. In view of the wide variety of factors and the quality and amount of information considered, the Riverside Board did not find it useful or practicable to, and did not make specific assessments of, quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative weights to the specific factors considered in reaching its determination. Individual members of the Riverside Board may have given different weight to different factors.

Recommendation of the Directors

After careful consideration, the Riverside Board, after receiving legal, tax and financial advice, has unanimously determined that the Arrangement is in the best interests of Riverside and is fair to the Shareholders. Accordingly, the Riverside Board unanimously recommends that Shareholders vote FOR the Arrangement Resolution.

In order to become effective, the Arrangement must be approved by at least 66⅔% of the votes cast by the Riverside Shareholders present or represented by proxy at the Meeting. Subject to obtaining approval of the Transaction at the Meeting, and the satisfaction of the other customary conditions to completion of the Transaction contained in the Arrangement Agreement, including final approval of the Court and certain regulatory approvals, all as more particular described in the Meeting Materials, the Transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025.

Filing of New Technical Report

Riverside also announces today that it will file a new technical report under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects titled, “Technical Report on the Pichette-Clist Property, Jellicoe Area, Northwestern Ontario” prepared by Locke B. Goldsmith, P. Eng, P.Geo, dated January 29, 2025. The Pichette-Clist Property will be Blue Jay’s material property once the Arrangement is effective. Such report will be available on Riverside’s SEDAR+ profile at https://www.sedarplus.ca/.

Blue Jay to Complete Another Round of Financing

In anticipation of making an application to list the Blue Jay Shares on the TSXV and in order to satisfy the TSXV listing requirements, Blue Jay expects to complete two further rounds of financing in connection with the Arrangement, being (a) a private placement of 2,000,000 Blue Jay Shares at an issue price of $0.40 per Blue Jay Share for gross proceeds of $800,000; and (b) a private placement of 2,000,000 Blue Jay Shares at an issue price of $0.50 for total gross proceeds of $1,000,000 and 1,428,571 Blue Jay Shares issued as “flow-through shares” (the “Flow Through Shares”) within the meaning of the Income Tax Act at an issue price of $0.70 per Flow Through Share. Each such private placement is subject to the approval by the TSXV.

About Riverside Resources Inc.
Riverside is a well-funded exploration company driven by value generation and discovery. The Company has over $4M in cash, no debt and less than 75M shares outstanding with a strong portfolio of gold-silver and copper assets and royalties in North America. Riverside has extensive experience and knowledge operating in Mexico and Canada and leverages its large database to generate a portfolio of prospective mineral properties. In addition to Riverside’s own exploration spending, the Company also strives to diversify risk by securing joint-venture and spin-out partnerships to advance multiple assets simultaneously and create more chances for discovery. Riverside has properties available for option, with information available on the Company’s website at www.rivres.com.

ON BEHALF OF RIVERSIDE RESOURCES INC.

“John-Mark Staude”

Dr. John-Mark Staude, President & CEO

For additional information contact:

John-Mark Staude
President, CEO
Riverside Resources Inc.
info@rivres.com
Phone: (778) 327-6671
Fax: (778) 327-6675
Web: www.rivres.com

Eric Negraeff
Investor Relations
Riverside Resources Inc.
Phone: (778) 327-6671
TF: (877) RIV-RES1
Web: www.rivres.com

Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking information. These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology (e.g., “expect”,” estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “plans”). Such information involves known and unknown risks — including the availability of funds, the results of financing and exploration activities, the interpretation of exploration results and other geological data, or unanticipated costs and expenses and other risks identified by Riverside in its public securities filings that may cause actual events to differ materially from current expectations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/242747

Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Precious Metals Project Generators

Riverside Resources Provides Updates on H1 2025 Exploration Programs

Post author By admin
Post date February 27, 2025

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – February 27, 2025) – Riverside Resources Inc. (TSXV: RRI) (OTCQB: RVSDF) (FSE: 5YY) (“Riverside” or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update on its exploration progress in Canada and Mexico and further progress on the proposed spinout of Blue Jay Gold. In follow-up to the Company’s earlier press release this month, which provided updates on drilling and the 2025 exploration program at the Cecilia project, as well as ongoing collaboration with Fortuna Mining, Riverside is highlighting recent technical results from its gold and copper assets in Mexico, as well as the gold and rare earth element (REE) projects in British Columbia in this news release ahead of presenting at the Prospector Developer Association of Canada conference where the Company once again has booth and will be meeting investors and potential corporate partners.

Exploration Highlights:

CANADA

Deer Park Gold Project: Ongoing exploration has delivered strong sampling results and geological features similar to the historic Rossland Mining Camp, one of BC’s largest historical gold producers, supporting further target development.
Revel Project: the project’s carbonatite-style REE system extends over 7 kilometers along strike, with varying widths, and remains unexplored by drilling. The project is part of BC’s broader Rare Earth Element carbonatite belt, with extensive exposures of carbonatite mineralization.
Taft Project: Recent fieldwork confirmed rare earth and gold mineralization, with good infrastructure supporting exploration resumption in early spring.

MEXICO

Cuarentas Gold Project: Four priority drill targets identified using geochemistry, geophysics, and mapping; drill-permitted with a history of high-grade mining and strong structural corridors.
Ariel Copper Project: Targeting a large, undrilled porphyry copper system with lithocaps, breccia pipes, and alteration zones; surface indicators suggest deeper copper potential.

Union Gold-Copper Project: Hosts high-grade carbonate replacement deposits (CRDs) with potential for a deeper porphyry system, similar to Arizona’s Hermosa-Taylor deposit.
Additional Projects & Partnerships: Advancing Suaqui Verde (under option to Southern Empire) and Suaqui Grande (100% owned); maintaining a strong royalty portfolio.

“We are excited to see our projects advancing, both through partnerships and our own exploration efforts,” commented John-Mark Staude, CEO of Riverside Resources. “As we attend PDAC in Toronto, we look forward to meeting with industry peers and showcasing our portfolio of gold, copper, silver and rare earth projects. Riverside holds royalties on several assets and also owns 100% of drill-permitted projects that are ready for turnkey exploration with existing and potential new partners. Additionally, we’re pleased with the progress of our proposed transaction, with Blue Jay Gold shares expected to spin out to Riverside shareholders in the first half of 2025. Alongside this, we anticipate strong exploration and discovery potential at Cecilia and other partner-backed projects in the coming months.”

Royalties

Fresnillo PLC continues drilling and resource refinement at the Tajitos project, evaluating its potential for future mine development. The newly elected President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, has expressed support for mining development, which could positively impact the progress of major projects like Tajitos Gold Project.

The Tajitos project is strategically located in northwest Sonora, Mexico, benefiting from excellent road infrastructure and access to power. The terrain is relatively flat, with no residential settlements on-site. Additionally, private ranch land where the project is located has been acquired and consolidated by Fresnillo, further facilitating potential mine construction and operations. Riverside holds a 2% net smelter royalty (NSR) on a portion of the Tajitos project, providing a strong future revenue opportunity for Riverside.

Riverside also holds a 2% NSR on the Sugarloaf Peak gold project, operated by Arizona Metals, as well as a diverse portfolio of additional royalties. More details on Riverside’s royalty assets can be found on the company’s website at www.rivres.com.

PDAC 2025

The Riverside team is pleased to invite investors, industry professionals, and stakeholders to visit us at PDAC 2025 in Toronto. Riverside’s President and CEO, John-Mark Staude, along with key team members, will be available at booth #2413A on Sunday, March 2, and Monday, March 3, from 10 AM to 5 PM or contact us at the information below.

This event provides an excellent opportunity to connect with the Riverside team, gain insights into the company’s exploration and development plans for 2025, and discuss the latest progress across our gold, copper, and silver projects in Mexico and Canada.

Additionally, Geordie Mark, CEO of Blue Jay Gold, will be attending PDAC. Blue Jay Gold, Riverside’s latest spinout, represents a compelling growth opportunity, and this will be a great chance to meet with Geordie and learn more about the company’s strategy and outlook.

Canada

Riverside continues to advance exploration at its Deer Park gold project in British Columbia, where recent fieldwork has provided strong sampling results, positive geological indicators, and structural features similar to those found in the Rossland Camp, one of BC’s largest historical gold producers. With high-grade, multi-element ores and well-developed infrastructure, Rossland has demonstrated significant mineral potential, and Riverside has outlined compelling targets for further exploration.

For Rare Earth Elements (REEs), Riverside has made notable progress at its Revel and Taft projects. At Revel, the carbonatite-style system extends over 7 kilometers along strike, with varying widths, and remains unexplored by drilling. The project is part of BC’s broader REE carbonatite belt, with extensive exposures of carbonatite mineralization. Additionally, Mount Grace, a district-scale carbonatite project staked and advanced by Riverside, has been previously studied by the British Columbia Geological Survey for its rare earth content and is now progressing with further exploration at Revel.

At the Taft Project, fieldwork conducted over the past summer included sampling and mapping, identifying both rare earth elements and gold mineralization. Taft is well-located near Salmon Arm, BC, with good road access and lower-elevation terrain, making it well-positioned for the resumption of exploration activities in early spring.

Mexico

Riverside continues to advance exploration across its gold and copper portfolio in Mexico, with significant progress at the Cuarentas, Ariel, and Union projects, among others.

At Cuarentas, the company has identified four priority target areas for drill testing. The project is drill-permitted and located on private ranch land, providing a clear path for further exploration and potentially rapid development including the existence of past mine and mill operations. With a history of high-grade mining and well-defined structural corridors, Cuarentas presents a strong opportunity for resource expansion. Riverside has made significant progress in target definition, using geochemistry, geophysics, remote sensing and geological mapping to refine drill targets.

At Ariel, Riverside is targeting a porphyry copper system characterized by large lithocaps, extensive alteration zones, breccia pipes, and veining-all indicators of a strong, undrilled porphyry copper discovery. Previous work has included mapping and geochemical sampling, particularly around former turquoise mining operations, which serve as surface indicators of deeper copper mineralization.

At the Union project in Sonora, Riverside controls three major mining areas within a large landholding. The project hosts high-grade gold potential in carbonate replacement deposits (CRDs), similar to those found in the Hermosa-Taylor deposit in Arizona, which South32 is actively developing. Union shares the same Paleozoic limestone host rocks, with an alteration halo of manganese, gold, and base metals suggesting the potential presence of a deeper porphyry copper system. CRD-style deposits in the region have historically led to significant copper discoveries, and Union remains a high-priority target for future exploration campaigns.

Other projects in Riverside’s portfolio include the Suaqui Verde project, which is currently under option to Southern Empire, and the neighboring Suaqui Grande copper project, which Riverside retains 100% ownership of. The company remains well-positioned, advancing its key assets while maintaining a strong royalty portfolio through option agreements.

Exploration efforts for H1 2025 continue across multiple projects, with further results expected from Cecilia and other key targets. Riverside also remains actively engaged in joint venture discussions, welcoming potential partnerships to advance its exploration programs. The company will be attending PDAC in Toronto, where it will be available for meetings and discussions. Further details on Riverside’s projects can be found on its website at www.rivres.com.

Qualified Person & QA/QC:

The scientific and technical data contained in this news release was reviewed and approved by Freeman Smith, P.Geo, a non-independent qualified person to Riverside Resources, who is responsible for ensuring that the geologic information provided within this news release is accurate and who acts as a “qualified person” under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

About Riverside Resources Inc.

Riverside is a well-funded exploration company driven by value generation and discovery. The Company has over $4M in cash, no debt and less than 75M shares outstanding with a strong portfolio of gold-silver and copper assets and royalties in North America. Riverside has extensive experience and knowledge operating in Mexico and Canada and leverages its large database to generate a portfolio of prospective mineral properties. In addition to Riverside’s own exploration spending, the Company also strives to diversify risk by securing joint-venture and spin-out partnerships to advance multiple assets simultaneously and create more chances for discovery. Riverside has properties available for option, with information available on the Company’s website at www.rivres.com.

ON BEHALF OF RIVERSIDE RESOURCES INC.

“John-Mark Staude”

Dr. John-Mark Staude, President & CEO

For additional information contact:

John-Mark Staude
President, CEO
Riverside Resources Inc.
info@rivres.com
Phone: (778) 327-6671
Fax: (778) 327-6675
Web: www.rivres.com

Eric Negraeff
Investor Relations
Riverside Resources Inc.
Phone: (778) 327-6671
TF: (877) RIV-RES1
Web: www.rivres.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/242583

Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Precious Metals

Consumer confidence plunges most in nearly 4 years as inflation fears escalate on Trump tariff threats

Post author By admin
Post date February 25, 2025

Consumer confidence declined sharply in February, notching its biggest monthly decline in nearly four years as uncertainty related to Trump’s trade policy also lifted inflation expectations, according to new data released Tuesday morning.

The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index for February came in at a reading of 98.3, a significant drop from January’s revised 105 reading and short of the 102.5 reading expected by economists.

“In February, consumer confidence registered the largest monthly decline since August 2021,” Stephanie Guichard, senior economist at the Conference Board, said in a press release. “This is the third consecutive month-on-month decline, bringing the Index to the bottom of the range that has prevailed since 2022.”

https://flo.uri.sh/visualisation/13227193/embed?auto=1

The “Present Situation Index,” which measures consumers’ assessment of current business and labor market conditions, fell to 136.5 in February from 139 in January.

The “Expectations Index,” which tracks consumers’ short-term outlook for income, business, and labor market conditions, also fell to 72.9 in February from 82 last month. Historically, a reading below 80 in that category signals a recession in the coming year. This was the first time since June 2024 that the index came in below that threshold.

Meanwhile, average 12-month inflation expectations jumped from 5.2% last month to 6% in February, echoing other recent data points that highlight greater concerns around tariff uncertainty and the impact those policies could have on inflation.

“This increase likely reflected a mix of factors, including sticky inflation but also the recent jump in prices of key household staples like eggs and the expected impact of tariffs,” Guichard said. “There was a sharp increase in the mentions of trade and tariffs, back to a level unseen since 2019. Most notably, comments on the current Administration and its policies dominated the responses.”

President Donald Trump departs after speaking at the Conservative Political Action Conference, CPAC, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, in Oxon Hill, Md. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) · ASSOCIATED PRESS

President Donald Trump’s revived tariff threats have weighed on sentiment as the administration doubles down on 25% across-the-board tariffs on Canada and Mexico, which are set to come next month. 10% duties on China have already been implemented.

Earlier in February, Trump announced global 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports that are expected to take effect on March 12. Trump later ordered that federal agencies study reciprocal tariffs on trading partners.

More recently, Trump said to expect additional duties on autos, chips, and pharmaceuticals. A flat tariff “in the neighborhood of 25%” would apply to all foreign automakers and start as soon as April 2.

“Everybody is talking about inflation rising on the back of tariffs and that is a great concern for the consumer,” Yelena Shulyatyeva, senior US economist at the Conference Board, told Yahoo Finance in an interview following the data’s release.

Notably, February’s decline was broad-based among income groups, including the more affluent cohort of consumers, which has driven the bulk of spending in recent years.

“That is a concern,” Shulyatyeva said. “We know that consumer spending has been in large part driven by those at the top of the income spectrum. … If this is going to slow down significantly, that’s a concern for the economy.”

Eugenio Aleman, chief economist at Raymond James, wrote it’s still “up in the air” whether or not this lack of confidence will translate to weaker economic growth. A second estimate of gross domestic product for the fourth quarter, due Thursday, will serve as the latest test.

“However,” Aleman warned, “the upward move in inflation expectations and the increase in mentions regarding the potential effects of tariffs should serve as wake up call for the administration.”

Alexandra Canal is a Senior Reporter at Yahoo Finance. Follow her on X @allie_canal, LinkedIn, and email her at alexandra.canal@yahoofinance.com.

Source: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/consumer-confidence-plunges-most-in-nearly-4-years-as-inflation-fears-escalate-on-trump-tariff-threats-160817886.html

Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Precious Metals

Max Resource Reports 1.6% Copper over 55 Metres at Sierra Azul

Post author By admin
Post date February 25, 2025

Significantly Expands Footprint at AM-13
Discovers new Manto-Style Target: AM-15
Approval of US $4.8M Fully Funded 2025 Budget

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – February 25, 2025) – MAX RESOURCE CORP. (TSXV: MAX) (OTC Pink: MXROF) (FSE: M1D2) (“Max” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce assay results from composite channel samples and expansion of the exploration target footprint at AM-13 to 1,500 by 100 metres. In addition, Max reports the discovery of a new Manto-style target, AM-15 and the approval of a fully funded 2025 exploration budget of US$ 4.8 million all for the it’s wholly-owned Sierra Azul Copper-Silver Project (formerly known as the Cesar Project) located in Northeastern Colombia (refer to Figures 1 to 6 and Tables 1 and 2).

Highlights

AM-13: Exploration Target Increased to 1,500m by 100m
- Copper-silver mineralization identified over 1,500m of strike and open ended
- New composite channel assay results include:
  - 1.6% Copper & 6 g/t Silver over 55.0m (CS11)
  - 1.6% Copper & 7 g/t Silver over 49.0m (CS08)
  - 1.0% Copper & 6 g/t Silver over 26.0m (CS01)
- The 100m wide mineralized body rises over 300m in elevation between El Cedro and Mapurito valleys suggesting significant depth potential
- Manto-style mineralization and alteration, similar to deposits in the Tocopilla – Taltal region of northern Chile, where a mineralized corridor extends well over 100-km and hosts several economic deposits including Mantos Blancos estimated to contain 500mt at 1% Copper (Reference material on the Mantos Blancos deposit available here)

AM-15: Discovery of New Manto Style Target Proximal to AM-13
- The new AM-15 discovery is located approximately 1,000m northwest of AM-13
- Early work suggests a large target footprint with five mineralized outcrops already identified over a 100m by 300m and open in all directions
- High priority target based on potential size, grade and proximity to AM-13
US $4.8 Million Exploration Budget for 2025
- Fully funded by Freeport McMoRan Exploration Corporation (“Freeport”)
- Three components to the 2025 exploration program:
  - Drill Target Development
  - District Scale Exploration
  - Basin Scale Prospectivity Analysis

Max cautions investors copper-silver mineralization at Mantos Blancos is not necessarily indicative of similar mineralization at Sierra Azul.

“The 2025 exploration season is off to an exceptional start with the significant footprint expansion at AM-13 of over 30% coupled with the exciting new discovery of AM-15 underscore the potential of large-scale copper silver discoveries within the Sierra Azul Project,” commented Brett Matich, CEO of MAX.

“The US $4.8 million budget for 2025, fully funded by Freeport, is an increase of 14% compared with 2024 and is focused on the development of priority targets for drilling and the identification of new significant size targets along the Serra Azul Project’s 120 km long mineralized trend,” he concluded.

Image showing extended footprint of AM-13 in relation to the AM-15 discovery

Figure 1: AM-13 & AM-15 Target Zone

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/242241_maximg1.jpg

Topography and composite assays from channel samples collected along the strike of the AM-13 target

Figure 2: AM-13 Target Longitudinal Section

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/242241_maximg2.jpg

Cross section showing composite assays of channel samples collected from the AM-13 exploration target in El Cedro Valley

Figure 3: AM-13 Target Cross Section

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/242241_maximg3.jpg

Work at AM-13 has identified an open-ended 1,500m by 100m exploration target, which is defined, in part, by numerous outcrops of high-grade copper and silver mineralization (refer to Table 1 and Figures 2 & 3). The potential for significant size and grade at AM-13 has elevated it to one of the highest priority targets on the Sierra Azul project.

Mineralization is observed filling fractures and vesicles within an andesitic tuff (a type of porous volcanic rock) that has undergone chlorite and epidote hydrothermal alteration. The mineralized rock strikes between 40° and 50° and, on average, dips at 70° NW. The mineralized unit rises more than 300m between the El Cedro valley and the Mapurito valley 1,200m to the northeast, suggesting the potential for significant depth extent.

Primary copper bearing minerals include native copper, chalcocite and bornite (refer to Figure 4). Trace amounts of bitumen (a type of organic material) were also observed in the mineralized rocks which is believed to be critical to the deposition of copper minerals from fluids that circulated within the Cesar-Rancheria basin. The presence of native copper and chalcocite indicates the mineralized fluids were sulphur poor leading to the precipitation of these high-grade ore-forming minerals.

The alteration of the host rocks and the copper bearing minerals observed at AM-13 appear to be similar to the Manto deposits of northern Chile, including Mantos Blancos, which began production over 60 years ago and is estimated to have contained a total of 500mt at 1.0% Copper (Reference material on the Mantos Blancos deposit available here). Manto Blancos is one of a series of 8 Manto copper-silver deposits in the Jurassic age volcanic and volcano-sedimentary rocks of northern Chile (Reference material on Manto deposits of northern Chile available here)

Figure 4: Mineralized Specimen from Mapurito Valley

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/242241_d7e4292b44aa7898_005full.jpg

Table 1: Summary of AM-13 Composite Channel Sample Assay Results

Rock Channel Sample No.	Sample Method	Width	Copper	Silver
Rock Channel Sample No.	Sample Method	(m)	(%)	(g/t)
AM-13_CS01	chip-channel	26.0	1.0	5
including	chip-channel	7.0	1.6	9.6
AM13_CS08	saw-cut-channel	55.0	1.6	6
including	chip-channel	15.0	3.4	14
and	chip-channel	5.0	3.5	16
AM-13_CS11	chip-channel	49.0	1.6	7
Including	chip-channel	14.0	2.6	12
and	chip-channel	10.0	2.3	10
AM-13_C12	chip-channel	12.0	1.2	6
including	chip-channel	4.0	1.6	6
AM-13_C13	chip channel	12.0	0.7	6
Including	chip-channel	3.0	1.4	14

AM-15: New Discovery – Potential Manto-Style Parallel to AM-13

Max also announces the discovery of a new target, AM-15, located approximately 1,000m to the northwest of AM-13 (refer to Figure 1). Early work suggests an exploration target extending over 1,000m with five mineralized outcrops already identified over a 300m by 100m (refer to Table 2).

Similar to AM-13, mineralization is found filling fractures and vesicles of an andesitic tuff. Ore forming minerals include chalcocite, malachite and azurite (see Figure 5). Chlorite, epidote and albite alteration along with the presence of bitumen are also observed.

Table 2: AM-15 Highlight Composite Assay Results

Rock Channel Sample No.	Sample Method	Width	Copper	Silver
Rock Channel Sample No.	Sample Method	(m)	(%)	(g/t)
AM-15_CS01	chip-channel	2.0	4.0	35
AM15_CS02	chip-channel	12.0	0.7	7
AM-15_CS03	chip-channel	10.0	0.7	7
AM-15_C04	chip-channel	5.0	0.8	4

The proximity to AM-13, along with its potential size and grade have made AM-15 the focus of the target development team. Work to extend the footprint of AM-15 is underway and several additional mineralized outcrops have been discovered. Initial follow-up exploration at the target will include geological mapping, sampling and trenching.

Rock specimen showing chalcocite, malachite and azurite mineralization

Figure 5: AM-15: Mineralized Andesitic Tuff

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/242241_d7e4292b44aa7898_006full.jpg

Freeport McMoRan Funded US $4.8 Million Approved Exploration Budget for 2025

The 2025 exploration program at the Sierra Azul has three objectives: Drill Target Development, District Scale Exploration and Basin Scale Analysis.

Drill Target Development

The Drill Target Development program will focus exploration on priority targets located in all three districts of the Sierra Azul Project: AM, Conejo and URU (refer to Figure 6). The goal of the program is to prepare the selected targets for drilling. The work program is well under way and includes detailed geological mapping and soil sampling as well as planned ground geophysical surveys and detailed structural analysis.

The initial focus of the target development 2025 campaign will be to continue exploration of the Company’s top priority targets: AM-13 and AM-15. Detailed mapping to date, has identified mineralized outcrops over large areas at both targets. Work to delimit the targets and establish continuity of the mineralization is on-going.

District Scale Exploration

The District Scale Exploration Program commenced in 2024 and is designed to systematically evaluate the entire Sierra Azul Project area with the goal of identifying additional priority targets for follow-up. The program has two components: soil and stream sediment sampling.

The district-scale soil sampling program comprises a total of 3,646 samples collected at 50m intervals along lines spaced 2,000m apart (refer to Figure 6). The sampling campaign commenced in 2024 and approximately 27% of the planned samples have been collected.

Soil samples are initially analyzed in the field using XRF technology. This has led to the discovery of new mineralized outcrops in the Conejo District. Laboratory analysis of the samples is also being conducted and will identify more subtle copper anomalies and trends that can be followed up with detailed mapping and soil sampling.

Stream sediments samples are also planned for 2025 and will complement the district-scale soil sampling program. 200 stream sediment samples will be collected along the valleys that drain into the eastern margin of the Cesar-Rancheria basin.

Basin Scale Analysis

An analysis of the evolution of the Cesar-Rancheria basin is being conducted to identify additional areas prospective for copper. The Cesar-Rancheria basin stretches for more than 250 km, has demonstrable potential for significant copper deposits and remains largely unexplored.

A model of the geological and structural evolution of the Cesar-Rancheria basin is being developed using existing information including, seismic data, oil well logs, satellite imagery and regional geology. The results of the analysis will be used to identify areas within the basin that have the right combination of factors required to develop large scale copper deposits:

good structural development to allow the mineralized fluids to move through the geological column.
presence of a chemical reductant that will cause copper minerals to precipitate from the fluids and
permissive rock types to host the copper minerals.

Map of Sierra Azul Project showing priority targets and district-scale soil sample lines

Figure 6: AM-15: Map of Regional Soil Sample Lines at Serra Azul Copper Silver Project

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3834/242241_d7e4292b44aa7898_007full.jpg

Background

The Sierra Azul Copper-Silver Project comprises three districts: AM, Conejo and URU. Collectively the three contiguous districts stretch over 120 km in NNE/SSW direction (refer to Figure 4). Max Resource’s land tenure at Sierra Azul includes 188 km² of mining concessions and 1,141 km² of mineral concession applications.

On May 13^th, 2024, Max announced that it had entered into an Earn-In Agreement (“EIA”) with Freeport, a wholly owned-affiliate of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (NYSE: FCX) relating to Max’s wholly owned Sierra Azul Copper-Silver Project. Under the terms of the EIA, Freeport can earn an 80% interest in the Sierra Azul Copper-Silver Project in two stages by spending an aggregate amount of $50 million and paying a total of $1.55 million in cash to Max.

AM District

Starting in the far north of the Jurassic basin, classic stacked red bed outcrops with extensive lateral continuity have been sampled over many kilometres within the AM District culminating in a mineralized corridor that extends over 15km (Max News Release dated May 25, 2023 and Max News Release dated June 22, 2023). Highlight values of 34.4% copper and 305 g/t silver from outcrop samples have been documented in the sedimentary sequences. The Company confirmed that stratiform red-bed style mineralization continues at depth with two scout drill holes completed earlier this year (Max News Release dated April 4, 2023). In addition, Max has discovered a Manto-style target, AM-13, which has significant size potential. Initial assay results from AM-13 included 48m of 1.8% copper and 7.2 g/t Silver (Max News Release dated August 20, 2024).

Conejo District

Midway south, the Conejo District is the most recent to be recognized and is characterized by structurally controlled mineralization hosted in intermediate and felsic volcanic rocks. Numerous mineralized outcrops have been discovered over 3,700m at the primary target in the district with surface samples averaging 4.9% copper (2% cut-off). No drilling has been conducted at Conejo, but it has emerged as an area of focus for the Company.

URU District

Mineralization within the URU District is hosted in intermediate volcanic rocks and is structurally controlled, similar to deposits in the Central African Copper Belt. At URU-C, a 9.0m of 7.0% copper and 115 g/t silver surface discovery was confirmed at depth by drill hole URU-12, which intersected 10.6m of 3.4% copper and 48 g/t silver. At the URU-CE target, 750m to the east, 19.0m of 1.3% copper discovered in outcrop was confirmed by drill hole URU-9, which intersected a broad zone of copper oxide returning 33.0m of 0.3% copper from 4.0m, including 16.5m of 0.5% copper (Max News Release date January 24, 2023).

Qualified Person

The Company’s disclosure of a technical or scientific nature in this news release was reviewed and approved by Tim Henneberry, P.Geo (British Columbia), a member of the Max Resource advisory board, who serves as a qualified person under the definition of National Instrument 43-101.

About Max Resource Corp.

The Company’s wholly owned Sierra Azul Project sits along the Colombian portion of the world’s largest producing copper belt (Andean belt), with world-class infrastructure and the presence of global majors (Glencore and Chevron). Max has an Earn-In Agreement (“EIA”) with Freeport-McMoRan Exploration Corporation (“Freeport”), a wholly owned affiliate of Freeport-McMoRan Inc. (“NYSE: FCX”) relating to the Sierra Azul Project. Under the terms of the EIA, Freeport has been granted a two-stage option to acquire up to an 80% ownership interest in the Sierra Azul Project by funding cumulative expenditures of C$50 million and making cash payments to Max of C$1.55 million. Max is the operator of the initial stage. The USD $4.8 million 2025 exploration program for the Sierra Azul Project is funded by Freeport.

The Company’s Florália DSO Project is located 67 km east of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil’s largest iron ore and steel producing State. Max’s technical team has significantly expanded the Florália hematite geological target from 8-12mt at 58% Fe to 50-70mt at 55%-61% Fe. Max Brazil has now commenced inaugural drill programs at the Florália DSO Project, consisting of approximately 1,000m of diamond and 800m by a mobile power auger rig.

The Company has added an Australian entity, Max Brazil, to hold the “Florália DSO Project” through the existing Canadian and Brazilian holding entities. As announced on January 31, 2025, Max Brazil has received in-principle advice on suitability from ASX Limited (the “ASX”) to advance plans for admission to the official list of the Australian Securities Exchange.

Max cautions investors the potential quantity and grade of the iron ore is conceptual in nature, and further cautions there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and Max is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource. Hematite mineralization tonnage potential estimation is based on in situ high-grade outcrops and interpreted and modelled magnetic anomalies. Density value used for the estimate is 2.8t/m³. Hematite sample grades range between 55-61%Fe. Hematite mineralization tonnage potential estimation is based on in situ hematite outcrop interpreted and modelled magnetic anomalies. Density value used for the estimate is 2.5t/m3. The 58 channel samples were collected for chemical analysis from in situ outcrops in previously mined slopes of industrial materials. Channel samples weighed in average 14 kg. Chemical analysis was performed at ALS Laboratories. Metal Oxides are determined using XRF analysis. Fusion disks are made with pulped samples and the addition of a borate-based flux. Max did not insert standards or blanks in the assay stream and is relying on ALS’s lab QA/QC.

For more information visit: https://www.maxresource.com/

For additional information contact:
Tim McNulty E: info@maxresource.com T: (604) 290-8100
Rahim Lakha E. rahim@bluesailcapital.com
Brett Matich T: (604) 484 1230

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Except for statements of historic fact, this news release contains certain “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities law.

Forward-Looking information is frequently characterized by words such as “plan”, “expect”, “project”, “intend”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “estimate” and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur. Forward-Looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates at the date the statements are made and are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements including, but not limited to delays or uncertainties with regulatory approvals, including that of the TSXV. There are uncertainties inherent in forward-looking information, including factors beyond the Company’s control. There are no assurances that the commercialization plans for Max Resources Corp. described in this news release will come into effect on the terms or time frame described herein.

The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change except as required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional information identifying risks and uncertainties that could affect financial results is contained in the Company’s filings with Canadian securities regulators, which filings are available at www.sedarplus.ca.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/242241

Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Precious Metals

Is It Time for the U.S. to Revalue Its Gold Reserves?

Post author By admin
Post date February 25, 2025

Author: Frank Holmes
Date Posted: February 24, 2025 Read time: 7 min

Gold prices surged to an all-time high of $2,940 per ounce last Thursday, pushing its market cap above $20 trillion for the first time ever, as trade tensions between the U.S. and Europe have stoked fears of a global economic slowdown. And while safe-haven demand is certainly a driver, there’s another potential catalyst that could send prices soaring even higher: the revaluation of America’s gold reserves.

As many of you are aware, the U.S. holds the most gold of any country on earth by far, with reserves totaling 8,133 metric tons. But what’s less well-known is that the stockpile’s value has remained at just $42 per ounce since 1973, putting its total value at around $11 billion.

Let’s say we were to revalue those reserves at today’s price of around $2,900, which some people are in favor of. The total value, then, would jump to a staggering $760 billion, creating a windfall of $749 billion.

This could provide the government with options to sell a portion of its gold or enhance its balance sheet by reducing debt. It could even be used to fund a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF), which I wrote about earlier in the month.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has tried to tamp down speculation that the U.S. will go through with this process, stating that it’s “not what [he] had in mind,” but I believe the fact that we’re having this discussion highlights gold’s importance as a financial asset and geopolitical tool.

Verifying the Gold at Fort Knox

Before any revaluation can occur, though, it’s probably best to verify that the gold reserves actually exist—a concern that’s lingered for decades.

The U.S. Bullion Depository at Fort Knox, which houses the bulk of the nation’s gold, has only opened its doors to non-authorized personnel three times in history: 1) in 1943 for President Franklin D. Roosevelt, 2) in 1974 for a small group of Congress members and 3) in 2017 for a delegation including Senator Mitch McConnell and then-Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.

Elon Musk has announced plans to conduct an in-person audit of Fort Knox’s gold reserves on behalf of his cost-cutting operation, the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. In a tweet on February 17, Musk wrote, “Who is confirming that gold wasn’t stolen from Fort Knox?… We want to know if it’s still there.”

I don’t doubt that the gold’s where it should be, but I fully support Musk and President Trump’s efforts to provide transparency. If the audit confirms the reserves—which I believe it will—it could boost confidence in the U.S. government’s finances. Conversely, if discrepancies are found, it could send shockwaves through global markets, adding further momentum to gold prices.

Central Bank Buying and Global Market Trends

Central banks have been on a gold buying spree, having snapped up over 1,000 tons of the metal for the third consecutive year in 2024, according to the World Gold Council (WGC). The National Bank of Poland (NBP) led the pack, adding 90 tons to its reserves, while the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) announced a fresh purchase of 5 tons to start 2025, bringing its total holdings to 2,285 tons.

Central banks are often considered the “smart money” in the gold market, and their sustained accumulation of gold reflects a broader strategy to diversify reserves and hedge against their very own policies. What’s more, this buying activity supports prices, creating a favorable backdrop for gold as an investment.

Peak Gold Ahead?

On the supply side, total gold production rose to a record 4,974 tons in 2024, driven by increased mine output and recycling. Initial estimates suggest mine production reached an all-time high of 3,661 tons, though final figures could revise this record. However, the long-term supply outlook is less rosy.

According to S&P Global’s Paul Manalo, the gold supply is expected to peak in 2026 before declining as a result of fewer new discoveries. Exploration budgets, which surged to $7 billion in 2022, have cooled off but remain higher than historical averages. This trend could support higher gold prices over the medium to long term, particularly if demand from central banks and investors remains robust.

Positioned for Growth

The high gold price environment has allowed gold mining companies to expand operations, prioritize sustainability initiatives and attract investor interest. Bank of America estimates that companies under its coverage could generate around $3 billion in free cash flow (FCF) in the fourth quarter of 2024, with even more expected this year.

However, rising costs present a challenge. The average All-In Sustaining Cost (AISC) for gold miners hit a record $1,456 per ounce in the third quarter of 2024, driven by higher labor costs and maintenance expenses.

Despite these pressures, many miners remain highly undervalued, making them attractive to value investors. The NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index, which tracks major gold producers, recently made a technical breakout, with the 50-day moving average crossing above the 200-day moving average.

Strategic Takeaways

So what does all this mean for your portfolio?

Gold remains a vital asset for diversification. I believe its role as a hedge against inflation, currency devaluation and geopolitical risks is as relevant today as ever for long-term investors.

For more tactical investors, the potential revaluation of U.S. gold reserves—or even the publicity surrounding Musk’s proposed audit—could act as a catalyst for price movements.

Meanwhile, the continued buying by central banks and supply constraints in the mining sector offer additional support for a bullish outlook on gold.

As always, I recommend a 10% weighting in gold, with 5% in physical gold (coins, bars, jewelry) and 5% in high-quality gold mining stocks, mutual funds and ETFs.

The NYSE Arca Gold Miners Index is a stock market index that measures the performance of companies that mine gold and silver. It’s a modified market capitalization weighted index that includes companies from around the world.

All opinions expressed and data provided are subject to change without notice. Some of these opinions may not be appropriate to every investor. By clicking the link(s) above, you will be directed to a third-party website(s). U.S. Global Investors does not endorse all information supplied by this/these website(s) and is not responsible for its/their content.

Source: https://www.usfunds.com/resource/is-it-time-for-the-u-s-to-revalue-its-gold-reserves/

Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Precious Metals Project Generators

Platinum: The Rarest Precious Metal

Post author By admin
Post date February 25, 2025

Video Transcript

As one of the lesser known but vital precious metals, Platinum has a long history of being used for jewelry and ornamentation, reaching back to the ancient Egyptian empire, having been discovered on a coffin unearthed in Thebes, estimated to be from the 7th century BC.

Platinum is a metal that represents power, prestige and a sense of great accomplishment. It has come to symbolize a high level of status in society, as evidenced by top-tier credit cards and membership programs using its name.

But Platinum has value beyond just being a status symbol. Modern-day uses of Platinum include being a key element in catalytic converters for vehicles, as it converts car exhaust gasses into less harmful substances, as a catalyst in the chemical industry and even in the creation of life-saving anti-cancer drugs.

Platinum was dubbed ‘platina’ or ‘little silver’ by the Spanish Conquistadors, and the truth is, it’s so much more than meets the eye.

But that’s just scratching the surface. On today’s episode, we explore this exclusive metal that befuddled miners and scientists alike when it was first discovered. Dubbed “platina” or “little silver” by the Spanish Conquistadors, the truth is, it’s so much more than meets the eye. Time to dig into Platinum on Commodity Culture.

What is Platinum?

Platinum is a gray-white precious metal and one of a group of six elements known as the Platinum Group Metals (PGM). The other metals in the group are iridium, osmium, palladium, rhodium and ruthenium. Platinum is the most common of the group and sees the most use.

Platinum’s atomic number is 78; it has an atomic mass of 195 units, a melting point of 1768 Degrees Celsius, and is resistant to corrosion, stable at high temperatures and has stable electrical properties.

The name Platinum comes from the Spanish word “platina,” basically translating to “little silver.” This somewhat derogatory word was coined by Spanish Conquistadors in the 16th century, as they had no idea of Platinum’s uses or true value and considered it an annoyance that interfered with their attempts to mine gold.

In those times, it was widely believed that “platina” was young gold and that, given time, it would turn yellow as it matured, but until then, better to toss it aside and get back to mining for the real thing.

Platinum is rarely found on its own; it is often deposited alongside gold, copper, iron, nickel, and the other Platinum Group Metals. When discovered, Platinum can be quite inconspicuous at first glance, with nuggets having a dull gray or black hue. One thing that can help identify platinum is its incredible heft when held and if iron is also present in the alloy, it will be slightly magnetic.

First Known Platinum Jewelry

Some of the first known Platinum jewelry was crafted by the ancient indigenous peoples of Ecuador, with estimates placing their culture several centuries before the Spanish conquest of South America in 1492. It was particularly in the province of Esmeraldas where some of the most striking pieces were found, leading anthropologist William Farabee to declare:

“The native Indian workers of Esmeraldas were metallurgists of marked ability; they were the only people who manufactured Platinum jewelry.”

Considering Platinum is far more difficult to forge and manipulate than gold or silver, the method these ancient peoples used to work such a problematic metal was incredible and a testament to their dedication to their craft.

Platinum fragments were coated with gold dust, then heated by blowpipe on pieces of wood charcoal. The molten gold then caused the platinum to sinter, meaning it coalesced into a porous mass through heating, which allowed it to be forged.

Being the rarest of all the precious metals, along with its incredible strength as the hardest among them, has led Platinum to be one of the preferred forms of jewelry throughout the ages. In addition, it is highly resistant to scratches and other blemishes and does not wear away easily.

Platinum’s Unique Properties

Platinum, along with the other Platinum Group Metals, has strong catalytic properties – meaning it can accelerate or trigger a chemical process without becoming permanently changed or consumed.

For this reason, Platinum is employed widely in the manufacturing of catalytic converters for use in exhaust systems in internal combustion vehicles. Platinum in exhaust systems helps curb vehicle pollution and contributes to enhanced air quality. Catalytic converters represent a whopping 50% of Platinum demand each year.

Due to its high melting point, Platinum is indispensable in chemical laboratories for electrodes and for crucibles and dishes in which materials can be heated to high temperatures.

In addition, Platinum is used in the chemicals industry as a catalyst to produce nitric acid, benzene and silicone. It is also used as a catalyst to improve the efficiency of fuel cells and for electrical contacts and sparking points, as it resists both the high temperatures and the chemical attack of electric arcs.

Platinum finds use in the electronics sector in the manufacturing of computer hard disks and thermocouples and is used to make optical fibers and LCD screens, turbine blades, spark plugs, pacemakers and, like other precious metals, is used widely in dentistry. Crowns, bridges, pins and other dental equipment, and fillings all employ Platinum as a key component.

Platinum is used as a catalyst in creating nitric acid, an essential ingredient in fertilizers, connecting Platinum to the creation of our food supply. But one of its more impactful uses to humanity is in the creation of chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer, of which Platinum compounds are an important building block.

I’m willing to bet you didn’t think Platinum was such an essential element in our day-to-day lives, but the truth is, it’s a metal that is as practical as it is prestigious.

Next up, let’s explore the mining methods used to extract Platinum from the earth.

How is Platinum Mined?

Being one of the rarest metals on earth, Platinum is rarely found on its own but is generally found alongside Platinum Group Metals, nickel, iron, gold and other metals. Although pure Platinum deposits have been discovered, they are the exception rather than the rule.

One of the earliest Platinum mining methods is placer mining. Like gold, Platinum particles can accumulate in alluvial sands in rivers and streams. Placer deposits are minerals concentrated in streams and riverbeds from rock eroded from its source and further ground into pieces as it is washed away by the water.

Most of the world’s placer Platinum is found in Russia and back in the 19th century, alluvial deposits located in the Ural Mountains were heavily mined by both small-scale family operations and more official mining operations.

Placer mining for Platinum was also common in South America, especially in the Río de la Plata, or the River of Silver, located between Argentina and Uruguay.

Placer mining involves using dredges to scoop Platinum-bearing sand or gravel from riverbeds and washing it until Platinum grains or nuggets are captured and separated from the surrounding material.

In today’s world, most Platinum deposits are located underground and are mined very similarly to gold, silver and other underground metal deposits, namely with strategically placed explosives.

Miners drill holes into the mine walls and pack explosives into them before detonating the rock, blasting it into small pieces and hauling it up to the surface to be loaded onto trucks, which then take it to a facility to be processed.

Most platinum mining in the modern era is done in South Africa, which accounts for a whopping 80% of world platinum production.

The story of the man who first identified Platinum and began to make it known to the greater world is no less fantastic than the element itself, involving an adventure across continents, a capture and daring escape on the high seas, and a scientific discovery that would begin Platinum’s journey to becoming the dynamic metal we know it as today.

The History of Platinum’s Discovery

Antonio de Ulloa of Spain was only 19 years of age when he was promoted to the rank of frigate lieutenant and sent on what would be a life-altering expedition to Quito in Ecuador, led by French geographers Charles Marie de la Condamine and Pierre Bouguer.

Antonio departed Spain in May of 1735, not knowing he wouldn’t see his motherland again for more than a decade. The mission was a monumental one: To help determine whether the earth was flat, as was popularly believed throughout most of human history up until that point, or whether it was a sphere, as suggested by Sir Isaac Newton.

To this end, it was necessary to measure the length of a degree of latitude at the equator, of which Quito was the closest city, and again at somewhere as near as possible to one of the poles. An expedition to the far north of Sweden was also dispatched for this purpose, but our story shall leave that journey to the pages of history.

As Antonio accompanied the geographers in Ecuador, their task proved epic indeed and with great struggle, they finally completed their work around 1745. Over the course of this decade, Antonio had plenty of time to explore the territory and the people there, recording his more interesting observations in various papers he carried with him.

As the expedition finally departed back to Spain, their mission accomplished, Antonio must have been filled with strong emotions as he was, at long last, headed home. Fate, however, had other plans in store for him.

As they made their way, sailing around Cape Horn, they were chased down north of the Azores by an English privateer and their ship was captured. However, they managed an escape and as luck seemed to be on their side, they evaded their captors and seemed to leave danger behind.

However, higher powers seemed intent on testing their wills and as they reached Louisbourg in Nova Scotia, their vessel was once again captured, this time by a British naval vessel and escape was out of the question. Antonio and his companions were taken to London and imprisoned, while the Admiralty confiscated nearly a decade’s worth of notes from Antonio’s time spent in Ecuador. Things looked grim for our frigate lieutenant as he sat in a cell awaiting his fate.

But this opened a window and good fortune came in the form of the President of the Royal Society, Martin Folkes, who came to know Antonio and his story and befriended him. The Royal Society was a group of natural philosophers and physicians, and not only did Martin free Antonio from his chains, but he also got all his papers returned to him and even made him a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1746. He was then allowed to return to Spain.

Finally, after his long mission, Antonio set to work compiling an account of his adventures, which he published in 1748, first in Spanish and then translated into several other languages.

For our subject today, one passage, in particular, stands out:

“In the district of Choco are many mines of lavadero or wash gold. Several of the mines have been abandoned on account of the Platina, a substance of such resistance, that when struck on an anvil of steel, it is not easy to be separated; nor is it calcinable, so that the metal enclosed within this obdurate body could only be extracted with infinite labor and charge.”

Shortly after releasing his book, Antonio was tasked with a new mission by the King of Spain, King Ferdinand VI, to travel throughout Europe and study scientific developments across the continent.

Antonio’s travels brought him to Sweden in the autumn of 1751 and he was welcomed with open arms by Swedish scientists. Shortly after his arrival, he was duly elected to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in October of the same year. During his time there, he met with mathematician and chemist H.T. Scheffer. Scheffer was a former mine and metal works manager and an assayer at the mint and so had a vested interest in metals.

There is no official record of what exactly was said in that meeting, but shortly after that in November of 1751, Scheffer produced a paper titled, “The White Gold, or 7th Metal, called in Spain’ Platina del pinto’ Little Silver of Pinto, its Nature Described,” and submitted it to the Academy.

Scheffer was already familiar with Platinum before encountering Antonio, as he had received samples of it just a year earlier in 1750 from the West Indies, but his time with Antonio undoubtedly influenced his writing. In his paper, he came to the following conclusions about Platinum:

“That this is a metal hard but malleable, but of the hardness of malleable iron.

“That it is a precious metal of durability, like gold and silver.

“That it is not any of the six old metals, since first it is wholly and entirely a precious metal, containing nothing of copper, tin, lead, or iron, because it allows nothing to be taken from it. It is not silver, nor is it gold; but it is a seventh metal among those which are known up till now in all lands.”

In addition, he recommended a potential practical application for Platinum when he wrote:

“This metal is the most suitable of all to make telescope mirrors because it resists as well as gold the vapors of the air, it is very heavy, very dense, colorless and much heavier than ordinary gold, which is rendered unsuitable for this particular use by lacking these two latter properties.”

Although attempts were made in the years that followed, Platinum never found its place in the telescopes of the era, although Scheffer would be delighted to know the metal did eventually find use in the construction of x-ray telescopes centuries later. Nonetheless, Scheffer’s paper sparked the imaginations of scientists around the world, and a flurry of research into Platinum began, leading it to establish itself as the multifaceted metal that we know in the modern era.

The Future of Platinum

Although the recent trend toward electrifying vehicles seemingly puts Platinum’s use in traditional gasoline-powered catalytic converters at risk, we need to step back and look at the bigger picture.

In the coming years, autocatalyst demand for Platinum is likely to rise as recent legislation to curb pollution from gasoline and diesel engines is boosting the demand for cleaner emissions, which is Platinum’s forte.

Either way, Platinum will have a role to play in a carbon-neutral future, as it is needed for hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric vehicles. These use a propulsion system similar to that of electric vehicles, where energy stored as hydrogen is converted to electricity by the fuel cell, and these vehicles are already becoming available in California and a few other places.

Platinum is also playing a role in the greater energy economy, as Platinum-based fuel cells are a cost-effective, clean and reliable off-grid power source that is currently seeing use in some remote areas, such as rural South Africa.

These fuel cells can help provide greater energy access to communities that might not normally be able to get a steady source of electricity. This includes electricity for schools, improving the quality of education and providing the ability to pump water for irrigation, facilitating agriculture.

Platinum’s other myriad uses also aren’t going away, and for this reason, Platinum will remain an essential metal to our modern civilization for as long as we can extract it from the earth.

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Jesse Day is not an employee or an affiliate of Sprott Asset Management LP. The opinions, estimates and projections (“information”) contained within this content are solely those of the presenter and are subject to change without notice. Sprott Asset Management LP makes every effort to ensure that the information has been derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, Sprott Asset Management LP assumes no responsibility for any losses or damages, whether direct or indirect, which arise out of the use of this information. Sprott Asset Management LP is not under any obligation to update or keep current the information contained herein. The information should not be regarded by recipients as a substitute for the exercise of their own judgment. Please contact your own personal advisor on your particular circumstances. Views expressed regarding a particular company, security, industry or market sector should not be considered an indication of trading intent of any investment funds managed by Sprott Asset Management LP. These views are not to be considered as investment advice nor should they be considered a recommendation to buy or sell.

Important Disclosure

Sprott Physical Platinum and Palladium Trust (the “Trust”) is a closed-end fund established under the laws of the Province of Ontario in Canada. The Trust is available to U.S. investors by way of a listing on the NYSE Arca pursuant to the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Trust is not registered as an investment company under the U.S. Investment Company Act of 1940.

The Trust is generally exposed to the multiple risks that have been identified and described in the prospectus. Please refer to the prospectus for a description of these risks. Relative to other sectors, precious metals and natural resources investments have higher headline risk and are more sensitive to changes in economic data, political or regulatory events, and underlying commodity price fluctuations. Risks related to extraction, storage and liquidity should also be considered.

Gold and precious metals are referred to with terms of art like store of value, safe haven, and safe asset. These terms should not be construed to guarantee any form of investment safety. While “safe” assets like gold, Treasuries, money market funds, and cash generally do not carry a high risk of loss relative to other asset classes, any asset may lose value, which may involve the complete loss of invested principal.

All data is in U.S. dollars unless otherwise noted.

Past performance is not an indication of future results. The information provided is general in nature and is provided with the understanding that it may not be relied upon as, nor considered to be tax, legal, accounting or professional advice. Readers should consult with their own accountants and/or lawyers for advice on their specific circumstances before taking any action. Sprott Asset Management LP is the investment manager to the Trust. Important information about the Trust, including the investment objectives and strategies, applicable management fees, and expenses, is contained in the prospectus. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing. The indicated rates of return are the historical annual compounded total returns including changes in unit value and reinvestment of all distributions and do not take into account sales, redemption, distribution or operational charges or income taxes payable by any unitholder that would have reduced returns. You will usually pay brokerage fees to your dealer if you purchase or sell units of the Trusts on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) or the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). If the units are purchased or sold on the TSX or the NYSE, investors may pay more than the current net asset value when buying units or shares of the Trusts and may receive less than the current net asset value when selling them. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. The information contained herein does not constitute an offer or solicitation to anyone in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such an offer or solicitation is not authorized or to any person to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation. Views expressed regarding a particular company, security, industry or market sector should not be considered an indication of trading intent of any investment funds managed by Sprott Asset Management LP. These views are not to be considered as investment advice nor should they be considered a recommendation to buy or sell.

Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Precious Metals

Riverside Resources Receives Conditional TSX-V Approval for Spin-Out of Ontario Gold Projects and Engages ICP Securities Inc. for Automated Market Making Services

Post author By admin
Post date February 24, 2025

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – February 24, 2025) – Riverside Resources Inc. (TSXV: RRI) (OTCQB: RVSDF) (FSE: 5YY) (“Riverside” or the “Company”), is pleased to announce that it has received the TSX Venture Exchange’s conditional approval for the previously announced spin-out of Blue Jay Gold Corp. (“Blue Jay”) by way of a statutory plan of arrangement (the “Arrangement”) pursuant to the arrangement provisions of the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia). The Arrangement will be voted on by Riverside shareholders at its Annual General and Special Shareholder Meeting scheduled for March 31, 2025 (the “Meeting”). This potential share distribution offers Riverside shareholders, prior to the record date, a similar opportunity to the previous Capitan Silver (CAPT.V) spin-out. In that transaction, Riverside shareholders received shares of Capitan Silver, which have since doubled in value compared to their price at the time of the spinout.

The Arrangement aligns with Riverside’s strategic plans and key 2025 catalysts, positioning the company for continued progress in the coming months. As part of this strategy, Riverside will retain royalties on each of its Ontario gold projects-Pichette, Oakes, and Duc-adding to its growing portfolio of mineral royalties across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Additionally, Riverside is actively working on gold, copper, and rare earth element (REE) projects in British Columbia and Sonora, Mexico, with exploration programs funded by partners. These partnerships provide Riverside with carried interests and potential future royalties, further enhancing long-term value for shareholders. Additional information concerning the Arrangement is contained in Riverside’s news release dated January 28, 2025 and will be provided to Riverside shareholders in an information circular in respect of the Meeting.

“The spinout of Blue Jay Gold is an exciting opportunity for Riverside shareholders to gain direct exposure to a new, focused gold exploration company,” said John-Mark Staude, CEO of Riverside Resources. “Under the Arrangement, shareholders will receive one share of Blue Jay Gold for every five shares of Riverside held, giving them a stake in a company dedicated to advancing these high-potential Ontario gold projects. We’ve seen this strategy create additional value in the past. Our previous spinout of Capitan Mining gave shareholders direct ownership in a separate exploration company, and those shares went on to appreciate significantly. By structuring Blue Jay Gold in a similar way, we are unlocking the potential of these assets while allowing Riverside to retain upside through royalties. This approach can provide both immediate and long-term value for our shareholders.”

In a recent interview, John-Mark Staude, President of Riverside Resources, and Geordie Mark, CEO of Blue Jay Gold, discuss their 2025 plans, including the upcoming Blue Jay Gold spin-out and exploration initiatives in Ontario and Mexico. Listen to the full conversation here: https://www.kereport.com/2025/02/21/riverside-resources-plans-for-2025-blue-jay-gold-spin-out-update-ontario-gold-projects/.

The Company has taken an additional key step toward completing the spinout with the filing of the National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report for the Pichette Project in Ontario with the TSX Venture Exchange. This report provides scientific data and general context for interested parties to review. The filing aligns with the authorization process for Riverside’s planned Blue Jay Gold share spinout, which will be voted on at the AGM at the end of March. A similar approach was used for Capitan Mining.

The Company has engaged the services of ICP Securities Inc. (“ICP”) to provide automated market making services, including use of its proprietary algorithm, ICP Premium™, in compliance with the policies and guidelines of the TSX Venture Exchange and other applicable legislation. ICP will be paid a monthly fee of C$7,500, plus applicable taxes. The agreement between the Company and ICP was signed with a start date of February 24, 2025, and is for four (4) months (the “Initial Term”) and shall be automatically renewed for subsequent one (1) month terms (each month called an “Additional Term”) unless either party provides at least thirty (30) days written notice prior to the end of the Initial Term or an Additional Term, as applicable. There are no performance factors contained in the agreement and no stock options or other compensation in connection with the engagement. ICP and its clients may acquire an interest in the securities of the Company in the future.

ICP is an arm’s length party to the Company. ICP’s market making activity will be primarily to correct temporary imbalances in the supply and demand of the Company’s shares. ICP will be responsible for the costs it incurs in buying and selling the Company’s shares, and no third party will be providing funds or securities for the market making activities.

Qualified Person for the NI 43-101 Report on Pichette Project

Locke Goldsmith, P Geo, P Eng is the qualified person and independent of the Company for the purpose of this transaction and this technical report which has been submitted to the TSX Venture Exchange.

About ICP Securities Inc.

ICP Securities Inc. is a Toronto based CIRO dealer-member that specializes in automated market making and liquidity provision, as well as having a proprietary market making algorithm, ICP Premium™, that enhances liquidity and quote health. Established in 2023, with a focus on market structure, execution, and trading, ICP has leveraged its own proprietary technology to deliver high quality liquidity provision and execution services to a broad array of public issuers and institutional investors.

About Riverside Resources Inc.

ON BEHALF OF RIVERSIDE RESOURCES INC.

“John-Mark Staude”

Dr. John-Mark Staude, President & CEO

For additional information contact:

John-Mark Staude
President, CEO
Riverside Resources Inc.
info@rivres.com
Phone: (778) 327-6671
Fax: (778) 327-6675
Web: www.rivres.com

Eric Negraeff
Investor Relations
Riverside Resources Inc.
Phone: (778) 327-6671
TF: (877) RIV-RES1
Web: www.rivres.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/241826

Base Metals Energy Junior Mining Precious Metals

The ‘structural shift’ pushing gold higher in 2025

Post author By admin
Post date February 23, 2025

Gold (GC=F) prices are on track to achieve their eighth consecutive week of gains, with forecasts for further upside potentially reaching $3,100 per troy ounce by year-end. Daan Struyven, Goldman Sachs co-head of global commodities research, joins Market Domination hosts Julie Hyman and Alexandra Canal to discuss the details.

Struyven emphasizes how the shift in central bank behavior stems from Russia’s central bank reserves being frozen in 2022. This influenced investments in the US and Europe.

“It was a wake-up call to [emerging-market] EM central bank reserve managers because they realized that their assets would not necessarily be risk-free,” he explains. “So they have shifted part of their reserves to buying gold, an asset which cannot be frozen or confiscated.”

“We have seen a five-fold increase in the rhythm of gold purchases by central banks,” Struyven adds. “We think this is a structural shift, and we expect ongoing solid above-trend central bank purchases of gold to continue to push gold prices higher.”

Source: https://finance.yahoo.com/video/structural-shift-pushing-gold-higher-220821409.html

Base Metals Energy Exclusive Interviews

It’s Time to Buy Gold Now! – Maurice Jackson

Post author By admin
Post date February 22, 2025

In this insightful episode of Proven and Probable, host Maurice Jackson delves into the compelling reasons why now is an opportune time to invest in gold. He examines current economic indicators, market trends, and historical data that suggest a favorable environment for gold investments. Jackson also offers strategic insights on how to effectively incorporate gold into your investment portfolio.

Key Topics Discussed:

Impact of inflation and currency fluctuations on gold prices
Historical performance of gold during economic downturns
Strategies for diversifying portfolios with precious metals
Long-term benefits of holding gold assets

Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to precious metals, this episode provides valuable perspectives to help you navigate the complexities of the current financial landscape.

Connect with Us:
Call Me Directly: 855.505.1900
Website: Proven and Probable
Twitter: @ProvenProbable
Facebook: Proven and Probable
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more expert insights on precious metals and resource investments.

Rumble

Base Metals Energy Junior Mining

Charted: Top Suppliers of Aluminum and Steel to the U.S.

Post author By admin
Post date February 21, 2025

Charted: Top U.S. Suppliers of Aluminum and Steel

This was originally posted on our Voronoi app. Download the app for free on iOS or Android and discover incredible data-driven charts from a variety of trusted sources.

U.S. President Donald Trump has imposed a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports, marking one of the most discussed measures of his first month back in the White House.

But which countries are most affected by these tariffs?

This map illustrates the top suppliers of aluminum and steel to the United States in 2024. The data comes from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Canada: The Largest Partner

Canada is by far the top supplier of both steel and aluminum to the United States. The neighboring country exported $9.4 billion worth of aluminum to the U.S. in 2024, significantly ahead of the second-largest exporter, the European Union, which exported $1.5 billion.

Canada also exported $7.1 billion worth of steel last year, compared to $7 billion from the European Union.

Country	Steel Imports (USD)	Aluminum Imports (USD)
Canada	$7.1B	$9.4B
Mexico	$3.5B	$397M
Brazil	$3.0B	–
China	$799M	$809M
Taiwan	$1.3B	–
South Korea	$2.9B	$781M
Germany	$1.9B	$318M
Japan	$1.7B	–
India	$489M	$445M
European Union	$7B	$1.5B
UAE	–	$917M
Bahrain	–	$535M
Argentina	–	$468M
Thailand	–	$271M
UK	$440M	–

Mexico, South Korea, and Brazil are also among the top suppliers of steel to the United States. Meanwhile, the country imports aluminum from other key partners, including China, the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, Bahrain, and Argentina.

A recent report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) noted that the U.S. produces less than 2% of the world’s primary aluminum.

https://elements.visualcapitalist.com/charted-top-suppliers-of-aluminum-and-steel-to-the-u-s/?mc_cid=a6f94fc979&mc_eid=5c5bffba2f

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Category: Base Metals

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Riverside Resources Receives Conditional TSX-V Approval for Spin-Out of Ontario Gold Projects and Engages ICP Securities Inc. for Automated Market Making Services

The ‘structural shift’ pushing gold higher in 2025

It’s Time to Buy Gold Now! – Maurice Jackson

Charted: Top Suppliers of Aluminum and Steel to the U.S.

Charted: Top U.S. Suppliers of Aluminum and Steel

Canada: The Largest Partner

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

FOUNDATIONAL READING

Verifying the Gold at Fort Knox

Central Bank Buying and Global Market Trends

Peak Gold Ahead?

Positioned for Growth

Strategic Takeaways

Video Transcript

What is Platinum?

First Known Platinum Jewelry

Platinum’s Unique Properties

How is Platinum Mined?

The History of Platinum’s Discovery

The Future of Platinum

More on Platinum

Subscribe to Insights

Important Disclosure

Charted: Top U.S. Suppliers of Aluminum and Steel

Canada: The Largest Partner

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