TORONTO, Nov. 2, 2021 /CNW/ – Vox Royalty Corp. (TSXV: VOX) (“Vox” or the “Company“), a high growth precious metals focused royalty company, is pleased to announce that it has realized preliminary quarterly royalty revenue of C$1,558,800 (US$1,223,400)(1) for the three-month period ended September 30, 2021.
Quarterly revenue benefitted from record royalty-linked gold production by Karora Resources Inc. (TSX: KRR) from the Hidden Secret and Mousehollow deposits at Higginsville covered by the Dry Creek royalty and record royalty-linked iron ore production volumes by Mineral Resources Limited (ASX: MIN) at Koolyanobbing, and consistent royalty revenues from each of the Company’s Janet Ivy gold royalty and Brauna diamond royalty. Royalty revenues relative to Q2 2021 were inline in spite of a significant reduction in realised iron ore pricing at Koolyanobbing.
Quarterly, year to date, and annual revenue guidance figures are summarized in the below table:
Three months endedSeptember 30, 2021
Nine months ended September 30, 2021 (Fiscal 2021 YTD)
2021 Annual Guidance
Royalty revenue (C$)
$1,558,800
$3,856,000
$4,000,000 – $5,000,000
Royalty revenue (US$)
$1,223,400(1)
$3,077,500
$3,200,000 – $4,000,000
Kyle Floyd, Chief Executive Officer stated: “We are pleased to announce another quarter of strong royalty revenue and multiple royalty-linked production records at Higginsville and Koolyanobbing. The Vox portfolio remains on track to deliver revenue at the higher end of our expectations, even in light of revenue guidance doubling in July 2021. Further, we anticipate first royalty revenue from our Segilola asset during Q4/Q1, following the achievement of commercial production at Segilola in October. The coming quarters present even more value accretive developments for Vox shareholders to look forward to, as we continue our industry leading organic growth trajectory from 5 to 10 producing assets by late 2023.”
About Vox
Vox is a high growth precious metals royalty and streaming company with a portfolio of over 50 royalties and streams spanning eight jurisdictions. The Company was established in 2014 and has since built unique intellectual property, a technically focused transactional team and a global sourcing network which has allowed Vox to become the fastest growing company in the royalty sector. Since the beginning of 2019, Vox has announced over 20 separate transactions to acquire over 45 royalties.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Information
This news release contains certain forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate” “plans”, “estimates” or “intends” or stating that certain actions, events or results ” may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”. Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to materially differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements.
The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include, but are not limited to Vox’s anticipated outlook for the 2021 fiscal year, completion of certain anticipated milestones, transactions and developments by the operators of certain underlying projects and mines in respect of Vox’s royalty and stream portfolio, anticipated future cash flows, future financial reporting by Vox, the receipt of payments from Vox’s mining royalty and streaming portfolio, the requirements for regulatory approvals and third party consents, and the completion of mine construction, production and expansion under construction phases at the mines or properties that Vox holds an interests in.
Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Vox to control or predict, that may cause Vox’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the requirement for regulatory approvals and third party consents, the impact of general business and economic conditions, the absence of control over the mining operations from which Vox will receive royalties, including risks related to international operations, government relations and environmental regulation, the inherent risks involved in the exploration and development of mineral properties; the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration data; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with Vox’s expectations; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; fluctuating metal prices; unanticipated costs and expenses; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, commodity price fluctuations; currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, including environmental regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, loss of key employees and other related risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks, uncertainties or other factors materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information or statement prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Vox cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on the Company’s forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events.
Vox has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Vox as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While Vox may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Notes:
(1)
These figures have not been audited and are subject to change. As the Company has not yet finished its quarter-end close procedures, the anticipated financial information presented in this press release is preliminary, subject to final quarter-end closing adjustments, and may change materially.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 29, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silver Hammer Mining Corp. (CSE: HAMR) (OTCQB: HAMRF) (the “Company” or “Silver Hammer”) is pleased to announce that, effective October 29, 2021, it has commenced trading on the OTCQB® under the symbol “HAMRF”. The Company has chosen to trade on this US marketplace to provide current and future US-based investors with greater access, ease of trading, home country disclosure, current financial disclosures and Real-Time Level 2 quotes on www.otcmarkets.com.
“Listing on the OTCQB venture exchange market place is an important milestone for the Company,” said Morgan Lekstrom, President and CEO of the Company. “Qualifying for OTCQB® is a natural step for the Company towards broadening exposure of our exploration activities in the U.S. It also demonstrates our commitment to increasing our investor base while providing our current and future U.S. investors convenient access to the same ease of trading, timely news and information enjoyed by investors in Canada.”
The Company appointed B. Riley to provide guidance with respect to its eligibility to meet the requirements of the OTCQB and to advise the Company on its responsibilities for complying with its U.S. disclosure obligations under the Securities Act of 1934 and Rule 12g3-2 promulgated thereunder in connection with the OTCQB listing and the OTCQB standards for international companies.
Lacy Project Update
Silver Hammer has filed an assessment report on the Lacy Project with the BC provincial government. The project comprises 590 hectares of mineral tenures in the Nanaimo and Alberni Mining Divisions of B.C. The initial evaluation of the project has produced encouraging results, including gold-silver surface mineralization in stockworks and quartz veins. Management intends to conduct a more detailed program including further geophysics over the next 6-12 months to identify possible drill targets.
About Silver Hammer Mining Corp.
Silver Hammer Mining Corp. is a junior resource company advancing the past-producing Silver Strand Mine in the Coeur d’Alene Mining District in Idaho, USA, both the Eliza Silver Project and the Silverton Silver Mine in one of the world’s most prolific mining jurisdictions in Nevada and the Lacy Gold Project in British Columbia, Canada. The Company has commenced an initial drill program at Silver Strand that will test for silver and gold mineralization immediately below the mine’s lowest level extending only 90 metres below surface. Silver Hammer strives to become a multimine silver producer and will focus near-term exploration and drilling plans at the Company’s Idaho and Nevada silver-gold assets.
*Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company’s property.
On Behalf of the Board of Silver Hammer Mining Corp.
Morgan Lekstrom, President and CEO
Corporate Office: 551 Howe Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6C 2C2, Canada
Contact: Kristina Pillon, President, High Tide Consulting Corp.
604.908.1695 / investors@silverhammermining.com
The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 28, 2021 / Granite Creek Copper Ltd. (TSX.V:GCX | OTCQB:GCXXF) (“Granite Creek” or the “Company“) is pleased to announce the third and final tranche of assay results from Phase 1 of the Company’s three-phase 2021 drill program at the 100%-owned Carmacks project.
The Phase 1 campaign focused on expansion and upgrade of resources in zones 1, 2000S, and 13 by testing the sulfide potential of these priority areas. In addition to the Phase 1 program, the Company also completed Phase 2 RC drilling at early-stage targets, and a Phase 3 diamond drill program to follow up on the success of Phase 1. All activity has been completed at site for the 2021 field season with assays for Phases 2 and 3 pending.
Granite Creek President & CEO, Tim Johnson, commented, “We are extremely pleased with the results of our 2021 exploration program which achieved many of our objectives and exceeded our expectations in several important respects. We expanded sulfide mineralization in three of the main zones at Carmacks which will be reflected in an updated NI 43-101 resource estimate followed by a new mine plan which is being developed to incorporate both oxide and sulfide material. We anticipate the sulfide resources could make a significant difference to the mine life and economics of the Carmacks deposit and we look forward to further defining that potential.”
Highlights
In Zone 1, diamond drill hole CRM21-019 intersected 67.35m of 1.23% Copper Equivalent (“CuEq”) mineralization including 23.30m of 2.27 CuEq.
In Zone 1, diamond drill hole CRM21-013 intersected 67.90m of 0.90% CuEq including 22.88m of 1.14% CuEq and 12.91m of 1.73% CuEq.
In Zone 13, diamond drill hole CRM21-021 intersected 96.85m of 0.84% CuEq including 35.85m of 1.04 CuEq and 21.35m of 1.21 CuEq.
Granite Creek believes these intercepts, plus others listed in the table below, have the potential to increase the grade and confidence of the resource model in Zone 1 and increase the grade and total size of Zones 2000S and 13.
Updated resource model being developed.
Table 1 – Highlights from of 2021 Phase 1 Diamond Drill Assays at the Carmacks Project
Drillhole
From(m)
To(m)
Length*(m)
Cu(%)
Mo(%)
Au(g/t)
Ag(g/t)
CuEq** (%)
CRM21-012
400.65
415.75
15.10
0.34
0.006
0.11
2.13
0.47
Zone 1ThisRelease
Including
405.85
411.20
5.35
0.55
0.016
0.15
3.01
0.75
CRM21-013
311.00
378.90
67.90
0.73
0.005
0.18
2.69
0.90
Including
324.75
343.63
22.88
0.92
0.006
0.23
3.76
1.14
and including
355.09
368.00
12.91
1.39
0.006
0.37
5.29
1.73
CRM21-014
355.70
423.45
67.75
0.93
0.009
0.26
5.16
1.20
Including
398.00
423.45
24.45
1.53
0.009
0.41
6.21
1.91
CRM21-017
317.42
363.20
45.78
0.42
0.001
0.15
2.41
0.55
Including
323.50
335.85
12.35
0.67
0.002
0.28
3.90
0.92
CRM21-019
277.95
345.30
67.35
0.93
0.011
0.31
4.23
1.23
Including
322.00
345.30
23.30
1.7
0.016
0.57
7.51
2.27
CRM21-004
323.50
367.00
43.50
1.12
0.028
0.20
3.41
1.40
Zone 1PreviousRelease
Including
338.50
367.00
28.50
1.57
0.042
0.29
4.53
1.96
and including
352.00†
367.00
15.00
1.80
0.066
0.33
4.81
2.31
CRM21-007
222.52
226.60
4.08
0.91
0.006
0.19
6.32
1.13
CRM21-010
450.00
513.40
63.40
0.27
0.003
0.08
1.31
0.35
Including
450.00
482.25
32.25
0.30
0.004
0.08
1.41
0.39
Including
488.90
513.40
24.50
0.30
0.003
0.09
1.47
0.39
CRM21-018
92.40
110.40
18.00
0.91
0.008
0.17
6.79
1.12
Zone 2000SThisRelease
and
158.80
170.00
11.20
0.72
0.013
0.14
4.27
0.91
and
233.60
249.00
15.40
0.39
0.024
0.09
2.09
0.56
and
263
298.90
35.90
0.35
0.008
0.10
2.62
0.48
including
287.00
298.90
11.90
0.67
0.017
0.19
3.53
0.90
CRM21-003
146.35†
214.50
68.15
0.59
0.028
0.14
3.69
0.83
Zone 2000SPreviousRelease
Including
161.40
179.80
18.04
0.81
0.033
0.21
4.80
1.13
CRM21-005
137.05
179.80
43.24
0.74
0.047
0.16
3.82
1.06
Including
142.05
158.40
16.35
1.20
0.036
0.26
6.11
1.58
CRM21-006
194.40
278.20
83.80
0.64
0.012
0.13
3.23
0.81
Including
229.20
278.20
49.00
0.87
0.018
0.17
3.88
1.10
Including
248.76
266.20
17.44
1.21
0.033
0.22
5.11
1.53
CRM21-008
195.80
228.40
32.60
0.80
0.019
0.17
3.88
1.02
Including
201.55
215.55
14.00
1.10
0.023
0.24
4.86
1.40
CRM21-009
190.50
243.85
53.35
0.59
0.012
0.14
2.71
0.75
Including
191.30
201.70
10.40
0.87
0.004
0.25
3.70
1.09
and including
209.00
225.95
16.95
0.62
0.009
0.13
2.76
0.77
and including
229.90
235.25
5.35
1.21
0.064
0.28
4.88
1.68
CRM21-011
223.98
329.50
105.52
0.96
0.013
0.18
4.06
1.18
Including
223.98
245.20
21.22
2.17
0.010
0.36
9.13
2.56
and including
260.32
260.82
0.50
18.97
0.008
0.46
38.3
19.72
CRM21-015
36.69
49.38
12.69
0.23
0.003
0.04
0.96
0.27
Zone 13 ThisRelease
CRM21-016
91.30
238.50
147.20
0.38
0.025
0.10
2.28
0.56
CRM21-021
132.15
229.00
96.85
0.62
0.014
0.20
3.04
0.84
Including
132.15
168.00
35.85
0.82
0.013
0.20
3.80
1.04
and including
207.65
229.00
21.35
0.80
0.021`
0.43
3.51
1.21
** Copper equivalent (Cu Eq) values assume Cu $3.35/lb, Au $1600/oz, Ag $24/oz, Mo $12/lb and 100% recovery. *Weighted average intercepts shown. Estimated true widths vary but, based on geological interpretation of cross-sections, are estimated to be typically 60-70% of the intersected widths.
† Part of zone has poor recovery
Figure 1 – Carmacks Copper Project Plan View
Zone 1
Eight holes were drilled in Zone 1 with the objective of increasing confidence in the inferred portion of the sulfide resource of this zone as well as evaluating the down-dip continuation of the inferred resource. Drilling was successful in achieving its objectives of delineating the depth extent of mineralization, expanding the mineralization below the current resource model, and confirming the grade and anticipated thickness in the inferred portion of the sulfide resource in this zone. Of the total reported meterage with significant mineralization, 67% returned mineralized intercepts grading greater than those reported in the inferred category of the resource estimate completed in 2017. While only preliminary, the Company feels that these intercepts have the potential to significantly increase the grade and the confidence in this area of the resource model.
While the Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”) published in 2017(1,2) looked only at the oxide material in Zones 1,4, and 7, work being conducted by Sedgman and Mining Plus (see news release dated May 18, 2021) is looking at various scenarios to process the sulfide portion of Zone 1, and other sulfide zones of the deposit, to build a basis for an updated PEA that would include both oxide and sulfide ore.
Zone 2000S
Zone 2000S has the potential to add tonnage in the sulfide domain of resource category and in doing so could add significant value to an updated PEA that included sulfide resources. During Phase 1, six diamond drillholes were drilled in this zone to evaluate the continuation of bornite-chalcopyrite mineralization down dip, and two additional holes were drilled during Phase 2 with assays still pending. Drill hole CRM21-011, along with all other drillholes from the 2021 program (see release dated August 22, 2021) extended known mineralization in the zone from 30m to 100m below the current block model. CRM21-018, a technical hole drilled subparallel to the mineralization to evaluate the geological concept of a southern W-E striking fault, was successful in locating the fault and extends mineralization to depth beneath the current resource model
Zone 13
Three diamond drill holes were completed at Zone 13 in Phase 1, and an additional two holes were completed in Phase 3 with the intent of evaluating the northern continuity of sulfide mineralization, and infilling an open area of the block model. Building on success from the company’s inaugural drill program in 2020 which included 127 metres of continuous copper mineralization in drillhole CRM20-001, grading 0.85% CuEq and including 28.65m of 1.74% CuEq and 19.2m of 1.19% CuEq (see news release dated February 11,2021), all five diamond drill holes were successful in extending and infilling mineralization from Zone 13 in the Carmacks deposit including CRM21-021 which intercepted 96.85m grading 0.84% CuEq including 35.85m of 1.04% CuEq and 21.35m of 1.21% CuEq. Drill hole CRM21-020 drilled from the same pad as CRM21-021 deviated from planed direction and was not completed.
COVID-19 Protocols
Granite Creek has worked closely with the Yukon government to develop a COVID-19 safety plan that enables the Company to implement an effective work plan while maintaining the highest degree of safety of our workers and surrounding communities. The Company strictly adheres to mandates put in place by health authorities at the Federal and Territorial government level and hold the health and safety of our workers, and the citizens of the communities in which work in the highest regard.
[1] JDS Energy and Mining. Feb 9, 2017. NI 43-101 Preliminary Economic Assessment Technical Report on the Carmacks Project, Yukon, Canada. Contained metal based on 23.76 million tonnes of NI 43-101 compliant resources in the Measured and Indicated categories grading 0.85% Cu, 0.31 g/t Au, 3.14 g/t Ag.
[2] Arseneau Consulting Services, 2016 Independent Technical Report on the Carmacks Copper Project, Yukon, Canada.
About Granite Creek Copper
Granite Creek, a member of the Metallic Group of Companies, is a Canadian exploration company focused on the 176 square kilometer Carmacks project in the Minto copper district of Canada’s Yukon Territory. The project is on trend with the high-grade Minto copper-gold mine, operated by Minto Explorations Ltd, to the north and features excellent access to infrastructure with the nearby paved Yukon Highway 2, along with grid power within 12 km. More information about Granite Creek Copper can be viewed on the Company’s website at www.gcxcopper.com.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Timothy Johnson, President & CEO Telephone: 1 (604) 235-1982 Toll Free: 1 (888) 361-3494 E-mail: info@gcxcopper.com Website: www.gcxcopper.com
Qualified Person
Ms. Debbie James, P.Geo., a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure contained in this news release.
Quality Control and Quality Assurance
Quality assurance and quality control procedures include the systematic insertion of duplicate, blank and standard samples, making up 12% of the sample stream. Drill core samples were sawn in half, labelled, placed in sealed bags and shipped directly to the Bureau Veritas preparation laboratory in Whitehorse. All geochemical analyses were performed by Bureau Veritas in Vancouver. Copper and silver analysis was performed by four-acid digestion with an ICP-ES finish. Non-sulphide copper was determined through a sulphuric acid leach with an AAS finish. Gold was analyzed by igniting a 15 g sample followed by an aqua regia digestion with an ICP-MS finish.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements”. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization, historic production, estimation of mineral resources, the realization of mineral resource estimates, interpretation of prior exploration and potential exploration results, the timing and success of exploration activities generally, the timing and results of future resource estimates, permitting time lines, metal prices and currency exchange rates, availability of capital, government regulation of exploration operations, environmental risks, reclamation, title, and future plans and objectives of the company are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Although Granite Creek Copper believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the companies with securities regulators. Readers are cautioned that mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business. Accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on Granite Creek Copper and the risks and challenges of their businesses, investors should review their annual filings that are available at www.sedar.com.
Copper corrected from the May record high and made higher lows
Four reasons the copper bull will take the price to new highs
Impressive price action in the face of Chinese selling
Nevada Copper- Three reasons why NEVDF is could outperform percentage gains in the nonferrous metal
Bull markets rarely move in straight lines- The next leg for the copper bull has begun
When Goldman Sachs called copper “the new oil” in April 2021, the price was on its way to a new record high at nearly $4.90 on the nearby COMEX futures contract. The world’s most active and liquid copper market on the London Metals Exchange reached a peak at over $10,700 per ton in May. Copper blew through the 2011 $4.6495 previous all-time peak as a hot knife goes through butter.
Even the most aggressive bull markets rarely move in straight lines. Corrections can be brutal when prices accelerate on the upside, reaching unsustainable short-term peaks.
Copper ran out of upside steam before touching the $4.90 per pound level on futures and $10,750 per ton level on LME forwards. The price fell just below the $4 level in August, three months after reaching the high. Copper was still “the new oil” when the price dropped, and the world’s leading copper consumer was hoping it would continue to fall. China has done everything to push copper’s price lower, but the red metal has exhibited remarkable resilience.
Meanwhile, Nevada Copper Corporation (NEVDF) has been working day and night to ramp up production and transform its balance sheet. The market has rewarded the company as the share price has been steadily increasing since the beginning of October.
Mining companies provide investors with leveraged exposure to a commodity as they tend to outperform the price action on the upside and underperform during corrections. Junior mining companies can magnify the leverage. Copper’s recent explosive move suggests that new highs are on the horizon. NEVDF has the potential to do even better on a percentage basis as the company ramps up its production of the red industrial metal.
Copper corrected from the May record high and made higher lows Copper futures ran out of steam at just below the $4.90 level, with the LME forwards moving the $10,747.50 per ton level for the first time. The May highs led to a substantial correction that briefly took COMEX futures below $4 per pound in August.
Source: CQG The chart shows the decline from $4.8985 in May to a low of $3.9615 in mid-August, a 19.1% correction. COMEX futures made higher lows of $4.0220, $4.0545, and $4.1140 in late September and early October before blasting off on the upside to over the $4.70 level as of October 15.
Source: Barchart
The chart illustrates the decline from $10,747.50 on May 10 to a low of $ 8,740 per ton on August 19 as copper forwards corrected by 18.7%. Copper then made higher lows at $8,810 on September 21 and $8,876.50 on October 1 before exploding higher to the $10,281 level on October 15.
Four reasons the copper bull will take the price to new highs
The four leading factors supporting a continuation of new and higher highs in the copper market are:
Rising inflation– CPI rose by 5.4% in September, once again exceeding expectations. While the Fed will likely begin tapering quantitative easing, tapering is not tightening. Moreover, fiscal stimulus continues as the multi-trillion budget will pump more inflationary stimulus into the economy.
Building demand– The infrastructure rebuilding package in the US will increase copper requirements for construction projects to rebuild the crumbling roads, bridges, tunnels, airports, schools, and government buildings over the coming years. Moreover, China’s copper requirements will continue to increase as the world’s most populous country builds infrastructure.
Decarbonization– Addressing climate change boosts copper demand. As Goldman Sachs said in April, decarbonization does not occur without copper, making the metal “the new oil.” Copper requirements for EVs, wind turbines, and other clean energy projects is a multi-decade affair for the red metal.
Supply shortages– Copper mining companies are scrambling to find new supply sources. Production can’t keep pace with demand- It takes eight to ten years to bring new copper mining projects on stream. BHP, a leading global mining company, is in talks with Ivanhoe Mines for participation in the Western Foreland exploration area in the politically dicey Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Bull markets tend to experience severe selloffs. China has attempted to cool off the bullish copper and other nonferrous metals markets. The world’s leading copper consumer has the most to lose from runaway prices on the upside.
Impressive price action in the face of Chinese selling
On September 1, China auctioned 150,000 tons of copper, aluminum, and zinc from strategic stockpiles, which was the third auction sale since early July, attempting to temper the market’s bullish price action. The market had expected the sales. Copper rallied to the highest level since early August on September 13, with many other base metals following the red metal higher. The price then retreated, but copper made a higher low on September 21. The Chinese auction to cool off the rally put 80,000 tons of copper, 210,00 tons of aluminum, and 130,000 tons of zinc into the market since early July. Since the day of the first auction, copper, aluminum, and zinc prices all posted gains. Imagine where prices might be if China did not sell from its strategic stocks.
In early October, China auctioned the fourth round of base metals, lifting the total sales to 570,000 metric tons. Copper and all the base metals posted explosive gains after the latest auction. China is selling copper, aluminum, and zinc from its strategic stockpiles. The attempt to stem price appreciation makes the Chinese a buyer of the metals on price weakness to replace its stocks. However, the auctions have not had the desired impact on price. The price action has been more than impressive in the face of the sales.
While BHP looks towards the DRC and other regions for new copper supplies, Nevada Copper is making significant headway on its production project in a highly stable political and economic environment in the United States. Moreover, Nevada is a state that continues to encourage mining activity and is rich in red metal reserves.
Nevada Copper- Three reasons why NEVDF has the potential to outperform percentage gains in the nonferrous metal
Nevada Copper (NEVDF) has made great strides over the past weeks and months. A successful junior mining company is positioned best to profit during a bull market in the commodity it extracts from the earth’s crust. Three factors support the price of NEVDF shares as copper has taken off on the upside again:
Factor one: Turing the corner on operations in Q3- On October 6, NEVDF provided an update on operational performance at the company’s underground mine at its Pumpkin Hollow project, noting:
Copper in concentrate produced during September increased by 265% compared to August, driven by higher stope production. Approximately 30,386 tons of ore processing yielded 682 tons of copper concentrate at an average grade of 22%, reflecting 150 tons of copper output.
Stoping is the process of extracting the desired ore or mineral from an underground mine, leaving open space called a stope. Stoping at Pumpkin Hollow significantly accelerated since mid-August, with the second and third stope panels fully mined and a fourth stope panel currently being mined. Further stopes are planned for October and November, and the high-grade Sugar Cube zone to be mined during the final months of 2021.
NEVDF experienced the highest monthly development footage achieved since April 2021 in September, with a 12% increase over August. Approximately 750 lateral equivalent feet were advanced in September.
Outgoing Interim CEO Mike Brown said, “I am very pleased to see the improved trajectory in our production ramp-up and a recovery in productivities. The increased ore production was a key objective for September, and together with the improving productivities on-site, along with the ongoing management strengthening, provide further confidence in the mine ramp-up.”
Randy Buffington, a veteran mining executive with previous management experience at Barrick, Placer Dome, and Cominco, is taking over as President and CEO at Nevada Copper.
Factor two: On October 12, NEVDF announced it had agreed with its senior project lender and concluded a non-binding term sheet with its largest shareholder to provide additional financing and a significant deferral and extension of its debt facilities. The move offers Nevada Copper greater balance sheet flexibility and support for the ramp-up of its underground mining operations and advancement of its open-pit project and broader property exploration targets. The highlights of the more flexible financing arrangement include:
Two-year deferral of first loan repayments scheduled to begin in July 2025.
Extension of loan amortization with the final maturity pushed to July 2029.
Deferral of the formal long stop date for the project as the completion test was deferred to June 2023.
All outstanding shareholder loans were consolidated under an amended existing shareholder credit facility.
A two-year extension to maturity data until 2026 with no scheduled payments before final maturity.
An increase of $41 million in additional liquidity under the amended credit facility.
Randy Buffington, NEVDF’s new CEO, said, “These combined balance sheet improvements provide significant additional runway for the Company as we move forward to complete the ramp-up of our underground operations. The ongoing support of two of our major stakeholders provides further validation of the significant inherent value of our copper operations in Nevada and allows us to continue to pursue the growth potential embedded within our asset base.”
Factor three: NEVDF’s value proposition is compelling when compared to peers. The chart shows NEVDF’s market cap versus its enterprise value compared to other diversified metals and mining companies with similar market caps:
Source: Seeking Alpha
As the chart highlights, the enterprise value is over 2.2 times the current $173.53 million market cap, leading to plenty of upside room for NEVDF shares. There is plenty of room for growth as the enterprise value will rise with output from the underground and open-pit mining operations over the coming months and years. According to data from Seeking Alpha, at 97 cents per share on October 15, NEVDF had a $173.53 million market cap. The average daily volume in the past 15 trading days from all exchanges stood at just over 2,500,000 shares.
Source: Barchart
The chart shows the rise from 38.78 cents on October 1 to a high of 99.2 cents per share on October 14. NEVDF shares closed not far from the high at 96.56 cents on Friday, October 15.
The trend in copper and NEVDF is bullish, and the trend is always your best friend in markets.
Bull markets rarely move in straight lines- The next leg for the copper bull has begun
Bull markets can be bucking broncos as corrections are often downdrafts in prices. Copper’s decline from nearly $4.90 to below $4 and recovery to over $4.70 on October 15 is a bullish sign for the red metal.
Copper’s strength, along with the other base metals in the face of Chinese stockpiling selling, has been more than impressive and is a testament to the bullish factors that are likely to push the price higher. Goldman Sachs expects LME copper forwards to reach the $15,000 per ton level by 2025, putting COMEX futures over $6.80 per pound. Other analysts see the price rising to as high as $20,000 per ton as decarbonization will keep demand outpacing supplies.
Bull markets often take prices far higher than analysts believe possible before they peak. As the world searches for more copper to meet the rising demand, Nevada Copper’s mines are in the most economically and politically stable region of the world. NEVDF shares may have just begun to rally as the price threatens to move over the $1 per share level.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 21, 2021 / Group Ten Metals Inc. (TSX.V:PGE | OTCQB:PGEZF; FSE:5D32) (the “Company” or “Group Ten”) is pleased to report the first independent National Instrument 43-101 (“NI 43-101”) mineral resource estimate (the “2021 Resource”) for its 100%-owned Stillwater West platinum group element, nickel, copper, cobalt, and gold (“PGE-Ni-Cu-Co + Au”) project in Montana, USA. The study was completed by SGS Geological Services (“SGS”).
The Company will host a live webcast on Thursday October 28th at 9am Pacific time (12pm Eastern) to discuss the 2021 Resource, recent drill campaign, and plans for the Stillwater West project. To register, click here.
Highlights
Inferred mineral resources total 2.4 million ounces palladium, platinum, rhodium, and gold (“4E”) plus 1.1 billion pounds of nickel, copper and cobalt in a constrained model totaling 157 million tonnes at an average grade of 0.45% total nickel equivalent (“NiEq”) (equal to 1.20 g/t palladium equivalent, or “PdEq”) using a 0.20% NiEq cut-off grade. See detailed breakdown in Tables 1 and 2 below.
The 2021 Resource incorporates five deposits of sulphide mineralization that cover 8.7 kilometers of strike length within the central area of the project. The strong correlation that is demonstrated between resource areas and untested high-level geophysical targets (Figure 1), and metal-in-soil anomalies, provides a strong basis for expansion of the resource with 2021 drill results, and future drill campaigns (Figures 2 to 6).
Mineralization, consisting of thick horizons of nickel and copper sulphide that are enriched in palladium, platinum, rhodium, gold and cobalt, is consistent with Group Ten’s “Platreef-style” geological model that is based on known parallels with South Africa’s Bushveld Igneous Complex.
Deposits in the 2021 Resource are defined by 83 drill holes from a total of 216 holes drilled at Stillwater West prior to 2021, including all holes from Group Ten’s 2019 and 2020 campaigns. A number of the remaining drill holes provide early confirmation of target mineralization in otherwise untested anomalies across much of the 32-kilometer project, accelerating future exploration programs and demonstrating significant expansion potential outside of the known deposit areas.
Assays are pending from the 14-hole 2021 drill campaign, which focused on expansion of three of the five deposits by completing step-out holes designed to build onto the 2021 Resource.
Rhodium totaling 61,000 ounces was modeled at three of the five target areas, where sufficient data was available. At recent spot prices, this endowment is equivalent to over 400,000 ounces palladium and over 750,000 ounces platinum. The Company believes rhodium results are understated due to the lack of historic assay data and is working to fully include rhodium in future mineral resource updates.
The 2021 Resource estimate will be incorporated into an NI43-101-compliant technical report for the Stillwater West project to be filed within 45 days.
Michael Rowley, Group Ten’s President and CEO states, “We are extremely pleased with the results of our inaugural resource estimate that provides a robust debut of high-demand battery and platinum group metals in a top US mining district. This is a major milestone in the advancement of both the project and Group Ten Metals. Mineralization in the five deposits shows excellent continuity and grade across large areas, with strong geophysical and geochemical signatures that remain open in all directions demonstrating excellent potential for expansion in subsequent drill campaigns. In this regard, we look forward to reporting results from our 2021 campaign, our biggest yet, which we believe met the objective of increasing the 2021 Resource. More than ever we see extraordinary potential for Stillwater West to become a large-scale and strategically significant US-based source of battery metals to meet growing electrification needs while also supplying PGEs for catalytic convertors and increasing fuel cell demand.”
TABLE 1 – Grade and Contained Metal by Deposit at a 0.20% NiEq Cut-Off Grade (Equals 0.53 g/t PdEq) – Stillwater West Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate (Base Case)
CIM (2014) definitions were followed for Mineral Resources Reporting. The constrained Mineral Resources are reported at a base case cut-off grade of 0.20% NiEq. Cut-off grades and metal equivalents are based on metal prices of $7.00/lb Ni, $3.50/lb Cu, $20.00/lb Co, $900/oz Pt, $1,800/oz Pd and $1,600/oz Au, with assumed metal recoveries of 80% for Ni, 85% for copper, 80% for Co, Pt, Pd and Au, a mining cost of US$2.20/t rock, and processing and G&A cost of US$12.75/t mineralized material. Rhodium modeled but not included in equivalency calculations. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimate.
The current Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves as they do not have demonstrated economic viability. The quantity and grade of reported Inferred Resources in this Mineral Resource Estimate are uncertain in nature and there has been insufficient exploration to define these Inferred Resources as Indicated or Measured. However, based on the current knowledge of the deposits, it is reasonably expected that the majority of Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources with continued exploration.
TABLE 2 – Grade and Contained Metal by Deposit at a Higher Grade 0.35% NiEq Cut-Off (Equals 0.93 g/t PdEq)
FIGURE 1 – 2021 Stillwater West Mineral Resource Estimate Over 3D Model of Induced Polarization Survey Results
Sensitivity Analysis
A sensitivity analysis is provided in Table 3 below which demonstrates the variation in grade and tonnage in the deposit at various cut-off grades. Mineralization shows exceptional continuity, enabling models at higher-cut-off grades including inferred mineral resources of 97 million tonnes of 0.55% NiEq (equal to 1.47 g/t PdEq) containing 1.8 million ounces palladium, platinum, rhodium, and gold (“4E”) with 857 million pounds of nickel, copper and cobalt (see Table 2, above).
TABLE 3 – Grade and Contained Metal Sensitivity at Various NiEq Cut-off Grades
Constrained Mineral Resources are reported at a base case cut-off grade of 0.20% NiEq. Values in the table reported above and below the cut-off grades should not be misconstrued with a Mineral Resource Statement. The values are only presented to show the sensitivity of the block model estimates to the selection of cut-off grade. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimate. Composites have been capped where appropriate.
2021 Exploration Update
Work in 2021 focused largely on diamond core drilling within the area of the 2021 Resource and an Induced Polarization “IP” geophysical survey on the west side of the core project area, including the Pine target.
Phase I of planned expansion drilling has now been completed. 14 holes totaling 5,138 meters were drilled in a two-rig program that tested priority targets at Chrome Mountain (Hybrid and DR deposit areas), and at Iron Mountain at the CZ (formerly Camp) and HGR deposit areas. Holes were prioritized to step out from known mineralization with the primary objective of expanding and upgrading the 2021 Resource estimate in 2022. Assays are pending, however, on a visual basis the predictive geologic model developed by Group Ten Metals is effectively targeting expansion of known horizons of sulphide mineralization, including high-grade intervals identified in the 2019 and 2020 drill campaigns, and identifying numerous untested targets at Stillwater West. Drill core is in various stages of processing with first results expected over the coming weeks and continuing over the coming months. Expansion drilling is expected to resume in Q2 2022 upon review and integration of 2021 results.
The 2021 portion of the expansion IP survey is also complete, with approximately 25 line-kilometers focused on the Chrome Mountain and high-grade Pine target areas at the west side of the highly successful 2020 survey. Very high-level anomalies in untested areas were identified in preliminary results that will be presented in a coming news release as final information becomes available. The second phase of the expanded IP survey is expected to resume in 2022 in the central and eastern portions of the 2020 survey grid.
Rhodium
Rhodium has been identified at potentially significant co-product grades of 0.03 to 0.10 g/t Rh in drill results in four of the five deposit areas at Stillwater West, with shorter intervals ranging up to 0.50 g/t Rh. The lack of historic rhodium assay data has prevented assessment of the rhodium content at the Central and Crescent deposits and in some parts of the other deposits. For this reason, the Company believes rhodium levels are currently understated at Stillwater West and will continue to include complete rhodium assays in future campaigns with the objective of fully integrating rhodium in future resource updates.
Rhodium is a rare platinum group element that is primarily used as a specialized catalyst alongside platinum and palladium in automotive catalytic converters. It is mined solely as a co-product at grades that are often below 0.1 g/t. South Africa dominates global production, and there is very little mine supply in North America. Sibanye-Stillwater, adjacent to Group Ten’s Stillwater West project, is the primary US producer.
Supply constraints for rhodium have supported elevated prices since 2017. At recent values, rhodium trades at more than 12 times the value of platinum on a spot price basis at over USD$13,000 per ounce, meaning 0.1 g/t Rh equates to approximately 1.2 g/t platinum equivalent.
Metallurgy
Preliminary metallurgical assessments by Group Ten Metals returned strong nickel tenor in sulphides drilled by the Company in 2020. In addition, favorable historic bench-scale metallurgical results completed by AMAX in the 1970s at the Iron Mountain target area demonstrate the potential for effective nickel and copper sulphide flotation and PGE recovery. Sample collection for more detailed metallurgical testing is on-going as part of the expanding development of Stillwater West, with a view to including full metallurgical assessment in future studies.
Carbon Capture at Stillwater West
All five deposits in the 2021 Resource contain desirable nickel sulphide mineralization that has been shown to require a much lower environmental footprint in subsequent processing to nickel metal or nickel sulphate in comparison to the laterite nickel ores that dominate global production. As part of Group Ten’s commitment to global sustainability initiatives, the Company is also examining the potential for large-scale carbon sequestration with the objective of further reducing and possibly eliminating the carbon footprint of a potential mining operation at Stillwater West.
Preliminary results demonstrate the presence of certain minerals that are known to have high capacity to bind carbon dioxide by a natural process known as mineral carbonation. As announced in a news release on September 23, 2021, the Company has entered a second phase of research with Dr. Greg Dipple and his team at the University of British Columbia, Canada, to assess the capacity of rock samples from Stillwater West to bind carbon dioxide for permanent disposal as part of a potential mining operation.
In addition to being strongly aligned with Group Ten’s Environmental, Social and Governance guidelines and principles, the incorporation of carbon uptake may bring financial benefits via initiatives such as the 45Q Tax Credit for Carbon Oxide Sequestration that is now in place in the US.
Qualified Person
The Stillwater West PGE-Ni-Cu-Co + Au project 2021 Resource estimate was prepared by Allan Armitage, P.Geo., of SGS Geological Services, an independent Qualified Person, in accordance with the guidelines of the Canadian Securities Administrators’ National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”) with an effective date of October 7, 2021. Armitage conducted a site visit to the property on August 9 and 10, 2021
Estimation Methodology and Parameters
Completion of the 2021 Resource involved the assessment of a drill hole database, which included all data for surface drilling completed through the fall of 2020, as well as 3D mineral resource models, and available written reports. SGS used 83 holes and 18,386 meters of drill data to delineate five deposits in the 2021 Resource estimate, from a total database of 216 drill holes and 32,465 meters of core data compiled by the Company. All holes from Group Ten’s 2019 and 2020 drill campaigns were included. No assay data has been received to date from the 2021 drill program.
Inverse Distance squared restricted to mineralized domains were used to Interpolate grades for the main elements of interest including Ni (ppm), Cu (ppm), Co (ppm), Pt (g/t), Pd (g/t) and Au (g/t), as well as NiEq (%), NiEq_R (%), Rh (ppb), Cr (ppm), and S (%) into block models. Composites of 1 meter have been capped where appropriate. Fixed specific gravity values of 2.90 – 3.10 g/cm3 (depending on deposit) were used to estimate the 2021 Resource tonnage from block model volumes. Waste in all areas was given a fixed density of 2.9 g/cm3.
The constrained 2021 Resource grade blocks were quantified above the base case cut-off grade. At this base case cut-off grade the deposits show excellent geologic and grade continuity. The project is at an early stage of exploration and all deposits are open along strike and down dip. The cut-off grades should be re-evaluated in light of future prevailing market conditions (metal prices, exchange rates, mining costs etc.).
The constrained 2021 Resources are presented undiluted and in situ (no minimum thickness), constrained by continuous 3D wireframe models, and are considered to have reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction. Based on a review of the project location, size, geometry, continuity of mineralization and proximity to surface of the deposits, and spatial distribution of the five main deposits of interest (all within a 8.7 kilometer strike length), it is envisioned that the deposits may be mined by open pit or bulk tonnage underground methods. The results from the pit optimization are used solely for the purpose of testing the “reasonable prospects for economic extraction” by open pit mining methods and do not represent an attempt to estimate mineral reserves. There are no mineral reserves on the project. The results are used as a guide to assist in the preparation of a Mineral Resource statement and to select an appropriate resource reporting cut-off grade. Pit optimization does not represent an economic study. Future engineering studies will be needed to develop optimal bulk tonnage mining methods.
The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues. There is no certainty that all or any part of the Inferred Mineral Resource will be upgraded to an Indicated or Measured Mineral Resource as a result of continued exploration.
About Stillwater West
Group Ten is rapidly advancing the Stillwater West PGE-Ni-Cu-Co + Au project towards becoming a world-class source of low-carbon, sulphide-hosted nickel, copper, and cobalt, critical to the electrification movement, as well as key catalytic metals including platinum, palladium and rhodium used in catalytic converters, fuel cells, and the production of green hydrogen. Stillwater West positions Group Ten as the second-largest landholder in the Stillwater Complex, with a 100%-owned position adjoining and adjacent to Sibanye-Stillwater’s PGE mines in south-central Montana, USA1. The Stillwater Complex is recognized as one of the top regions in the world for PGE-Ni-Cu-Co mineralization, alongside the Bushveld Complex and Great Dyke in southern Africa, which are similar layered intrusions. The J-M Reef, and other PGE-enriched sulphide horizons in the Stillwater Complex, share many similarities with the highly prolific Merensky and UG2 Reefs in the Bushveld Complex. Group Ten’s work in the lower Stillwater Complex has demonstrated the presence of large-scale disseminated and high-sulphide battery metals and PGE mineralization, similar to the Platreef in the Bushveld Complex2. Drill campaigns by the Company, complemented by a substantial historic drill database, have delineated five deposits of Platreef-style mineralization across a core 9.2-kilometer span of the project, all of which are open for expansion into adjacent targets. Multiple earlier-stage Platreef-style and reef-type targets are also being advanced across the remainder of the 32-kilometer length of the project based on strong correlations seen in soil and rock geochemistry, geophysical surveys, geologic mapping, and drilling.
About Group Ten Metals Inc.
Group Ten Metals Inc. is a TSX-V-listed Canadian mineral exploration company focused on the development of high-quality platinum, palladium, nickel, copper, cobalt, and gold exploration assets in top North American mining jurisdictions. The Company’s core asset is the Stillwater West PGE-Ni-Cu-Co + Au project adjacent to Sibanye-Stillwater’s high-grade PGE mines in Montana, USA. Group Ten also holds the high-grade Black Lake-Drayton Gold project adjacent to Treasury Metals’ development-stage Goliath Gold Complex in northwest Ontario, and the Kluane PGE-Ni-Cu-Co project on trend with Nickel Creek Platinum‘s Wellgreen deposit in Canada‘s Yukon Territory.
About the Metallic Group of Companies
The Metallic Group is a collaboration of leading precious and base metals exploration companies, with a portfolio of large, brownfield assets in established mining districts adjacent to some of the industry’s highest-grade producers of silver and gold, platinum and palladium, and copper. Member companies include Metallic Minerals in the Yukon’s high-grade Keno Hill silver district and La Plata silver-gold-copper district of Colorado, Group Ten Metals in the Stillwater PGM-nickel-copper district of Montana, and Granite Creek Copper in the Yukon’s Minto copper district. The founders and team members of the Metallic Group include highly successful explorationists formerly with some of the industry’s leading explorers/developers and major producers. With this expertise, the companies are undertaking a systematic approach to exploration using new models and technologies to facilitate discoveries in these proven, but under-explored, mining districts. The Metallic Group is headquartered in Vancouver, BC, Canada, and its member companies are listed on the Toronto Venture, US OTC, and Frankfurt stock exchanges.
Mr. Allan Armitage, Ph.D., P.Geo., is a Qualified Person in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release with respect to the 2021 Resource estimate. As independent QP, Mr. Armitage was responsible for the preparation of the technical information pertaining to the Resource estimate.
Mr. Mike Ostenson, P.Geo., is the Qualified Person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101, and he has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure outside of the 2021 Resource estimate that is contained in this news release.
Forward-Looking Statements
Forward Looking Statements: This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements”. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization, historic production, estimation of mineral resources, the realization of mineral resource estimates, interpretation of prior exploration and potential exploration results, the timing and success of exploration activities generally, the timing of the timing and results of future resource estimates, permitting time lines, metal prices and currency exchange rates, availability of capital, government regulation of exploration operations, environmental risks, reclamation, titlefuture driling actiivities and the locations of such drilling, and future plans and objectives of the company are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Although Group Ten believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the companies with securities regulators. Readers are cautioned that mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business. Accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on Group Ten and the risks and challenges of their businesses, investors should review their annual filings that are available at www.sedar.com.
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.
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 20, 2021 / Vox Royalty Corp. (TSXV:VOX)(OTCQX:VOXCF)(“Vox” or the “Company“), a high growth precious metals focused royalty company,is pleased to provide recent development and exploration updates from royalty operating partners Thor Explorations Ltd. (THX) (“Thor“), Jangada Mines plc (JAN) (“Jangada“), Kalamazoo Resources Limited (KZR) (“Kalamazoo“), Genesis Minerals Limited (GMD) (“Genesis“), and ValOre Metals Corp. (VO) (“ValOre“)
Spencer Cole, Chief Investment Officer stated, “The past month has delivered a number of key developments at projects linked to Vox’s royalty portfolio, including commercial production at Segilola, feasibility study progress at Pitombeiras, and further drilling success at Ashburton, Puzzle North and Pedra Branca. These operator developments are representative of Vox’s innovative event-driven acquisition model, designed to selectively acquire royalties immediately prior to major project developments that have a material impact on value.”
Key Development Updates
Commercial production milestone achieved at the Segilola Gold Mine by Thor;
Update on the near-term preparation of the Definitive Feasibility Study on the Pitombeiras vanadium project by Jangada;
High-grade drilling results at the Ashburton Gold Project by Kalamazoo;
Significant new wide, shallow drilling results from emerging Puzzle North discovery by Genesis; and
High-grade drilling results at the Pedra Branca platinum-group-elements (“PGE“) project by ValOre.
Segilola (Producing) – Commercial Production Milestone Achieved
Vox holds a 1.5% net smelter return royalty over the Segilola gold mine, capped at US$3.5M;
On October 5, 2021, Thor announced that commercial production had been achieved at the Segilola Gold Mine, highlighting:
First gold pour in July 2021;
The mine is fully operational and operating at the target daily mine production rate; and
the process plant is operating in-line with its design throughput capacity of 715,000 tonnes per annum.
Vox Management Summary: Based on production guidance from Thor issued on March 29, 2021, which forecast production of 46,000 ounces of gold in 2021 and 109,000 ounces of gold in 2022, Vox management estimates that total pre-tax royalty revenues of US$3.5M will be receivable within the first two full years of production.
Pitombeiras (PEA Stage) – Feasibility Study Expected in Q4 2021
Vox holds a 1% net smelter return royalty over the Pitombeiras vanadium-iron ore project;
On September 30, 2021, Jangada announced the following:
It has appointed an independent engineering advisory company to prepare a NI 43-101 compliant definitive feasibility study, which is expected to be completed in Q4 2021;
Having been granted a trial mining license to initiate the extraction of ferrovanadium from the Pitombeiras project through an open pit mine operation, Jangada hopes to fast-track the project to early production; and
Brian McMaster, Executive Chairman of Jangada, said: “Since its discovery in 2019, we have made significant progress in developing this exciting ferrovanadium deposit and have a high level of confidence in fast-tracking the Project to production. With the Project substantially de-risked and having demonstrated its robust economics during the Preliminary Economic Assessment stage, we are now working on the final details of the FS and look forward to providing further updates in due course.”
Vox Management Summary: Pitombeiras has been fast-tracked from discovery to feasibility in less than 3 years, which typically takes 6 – 10 years for most mining projects. This rapid progress is a testament to Jangada Mines’ management team and related stakeholders. Initial production and royalty revenue in 2022 looks increasingly likely given the current pace of development.
Ashburton (Exploration) – High Grade Drilling Results
Vox holds a 1.75% gross revenue gold royalty (>250koz cumulative production) on the Ashburton gold project;
It has completed its 14,772m drill program at the Ashburton gold project;
Drilling to the north-west and south-east of the Waugh Deposit has extended the moderate to high-grade mineralisation zone in the northern section of the Ashburton Gold Project to 2.5km long (“Waugh Zone“);
Stand out drill results have been received from several prospects across the Waugh Zone showing intercepts of moderate to high grade mineralisation including:
5m @ 7.37g/t Au from 93m including 2m @ 13.58g/t Au from 93m (KARC0065);
2m @ 9.49g/t Au from 40m including 1m @ 17.85g/t Au from 40m (KARC0122);
8m @ 3.56g/t Au from 1m including 1m @ 7.25g/t Au from 6m (KARC0015);
7m @ 2.07g/t Au from surface including 5m @ 2.75g/t Au from surface (KARC0016);
Significant new gold mineralisation discovered at the Annie Oakley Prospect at the north-western end of the Waugh Zone included drill assays from two holes 240m apart returning 8m @ 3.56g/t from surface (KARC0015) and 2m @ 9.49g/t Au (including 1m @ 17.85g/t Au (KARC0122)) from 40m;
Shallow conglomerate hosted gold mineralisation at Annie Oakley shares many similarities with the nearby Mt Olympus deposit and supports Kalamazoo’s aim to substantially increase the shallow oxide resources at the Ashburton Gold Project;
Several thick >1oz/t Au intercepts from historical drilling at the Waugh Deposit undertaken by Sipa Resources (ASX: SRI) in 2002 and thick moderate to high-grade down plunge intercepts by Northern Star Resources (ASX: NST) in 2012 and Kalamazoo in 2020 confirms the considerable high-grade potential of the 2.5km long Waugh Zone; and
Plans to commence an extensive drill program at Ashburton in early 2022.
Vox Management Summary: The drilling success that has extended the moderate to high-grade mineralisation zone in the northern section of the Ashburton project to 2.5km long indicates that Kalamazoo management’s exploration target of 2Moz – 3Moz is potentially achievable. We look forward to further newsflow on Kalamazoo’s development studies which are progressing in parallel with exploration drilling.
Kookynie (Pre-Feasibility) – Puzzle North Discovery Drilling Results
Vox holds a A$1/t production royalty on part of the Kookynie gold project(1);
Strong new results from Reverse Circulation (“RC“) and diamond drilling continue to confirm the potential to expand the 1.6Moz Mineral Resource at the Ulysses Gold Project near Leonora in WA;
It has completed a further 6,150m RC drilling and 433m diamond drilling at the royalty-linked Puzzle North project;
Broad zones of strong gold mineralisation were intersected from shallow depths in RC and diamond drilling at the emerging Puzzle North Prospect, including:
44.1m @ 3.51g/t gold from 58.9m (21USDH0184), including 10.2m @ 10.6g/t gold from 67.8m;
29m @ 4.26g/t gold from 28m (21USRC1038), including 4m @ 18.39g/t gold from 32m;
28.0m @ 1.99g/t gold from 161m (21USDH0184);
32m @ 1.42g/t gold from 58m (21USRC1013), including 5m @ 5.14g/t gold from 84m;
Drilling at Puzzle North has been completed over 500m of strike with the mineralisation remaining open both at depth and along strike. The northernmost hole, 21USRC1026, has returned an intercept of 11m @ 2.13g/t gold from 38m down-hole; and
Genesis Managing Director Michael Fowler said: “Drilling will resume here [at Puzzle North] in November to in-fill and extend the mineralised zone, allowing us to bring this exciting new discovery into our Mineral Resource inventory by the end of the year.”
Vox Management Summary: The high gold grades and broad intersections of this drilling suggests that the Puzzle North discovery has strong potential to host an economic orebody. Vox management believes that if Puzzle North is included in the broader Ulysses project feasibility study this potential orebody could be fast-tracked towards a construction decision within 12 months.
Pedra Branca (Preliminary Economic Assessment) – High Grade Drilling Results
Vox holds a 1% net smelter return royalty on the Pedra Branca PGE project;
Recent drilling returned high-grade, shallow PGE mineralized intercepts including:
7m at 2.95g/t 2PGE+Au from surface, including 45m at 4.76g/t 2PGE+Au, 0.1g/t Rh from 16m, and 6.4m at 16.92g/t 2PGE+Au and 0.52g/t Rh from 30m (DD21ES15C);
49m at 2.03g/t 2PGE+Au from 19m, including 4.6m at 11.94g/t 2PGE+Au, 0.25g/t Rh from 23.68m (DD21CU12A);
77m at 1.01g/t 2PGE+Au from surface (DD21PBE30A);
47m at 1.51g/t 2PGE+Au from surface (DD21CU12A); and
Metallurgical testwork is expected to commence in mid-October, with a primary focus on mineralogy and conventional processing circuits.
Vox Management Summary: These drilling results are some of the highest grade and broadest zones drilled to date at the Pedra Branca project. We look forward to the release of a resource update by ValOre in the coming months, particularly following recent exploration success at the Trapia 1 and Trapia 2 target areas, given their geological strike lengths have increased by factors of three and five respectively.
Qualified Person
Timothy J. Strong, MIMMM, of Kangari Consulting LLC and a “Qualified Person” under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this press release.
About Vox
Vox is a high growth precious metals royalty and streaming company with a portfolio of over 50 royalties and streams spanning eight jurisdictions. The Company was established in 2014 and has since built unique intellectual property, a technically focused transactional team and a global sourcing network which has allowed Vox to become the fastest growing company in the royalty sector. Since the beginning of 2019, Vox has announced over 20 separate transactions to acquire over 45 royalties.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information
This news release contains certain forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate” “plans”, “estimates” or “intends” or stating that certain actions, events or results ” may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.
The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include, but are not limited to, summaries of operator updates provided by management and the potential impact on the Company of such operator updates, statements regarding expectations for the timing of commencement of construction at and resource production from various mining projects, expectations regarding the size, quality and exploitability of the resources at various mining projects, future operations and work programs of Vox’s mining operator partners, the receipt of future royalty payments derived from various royalty assets of Vox, anticipated future cash flows and future financial reporting by Vox and requirements for regulatory approvals.
Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Vox to control or predict, that may cause Vox’s actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the requirement for regulatory approvals and third party consents, the impact of general business and economic conditions, the absence of control over the mining operations from which Vox will receive royalties, including risks related to international operations, government relations and environmental regulation, the inherent risks involved in the exploration and development of mineral properties; the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration data; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with Vox’s expectations; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; fluctuating metal prices; unanticipated costs and expenses; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, commodity price fluctuations; currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, including environmental regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, loss of key employees and other related risks and uncertainties.
Vox has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Vox as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While Vox may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Technical and Third-Party Information
Except where otherwise stated, the disclosure in this press release is based on information publicly disclosed by project operators based on the information/data available in the public domain as at the date hereof and none of this information has been independently verified by Vox. Specifically, as a royalty investor, Vox has limited, if any, access to the royalty operations. Although Vox does not have any knowledge that such information may not be accurate, there can be no assurance that such information from the project operators is complete or accurate. Some information publicly reported by the project operators may relate to a larger property than the area covered by Vox’s royalty interests. Vox’s royalty interests often cover less than 100% and sometimes only a portion of the publicly reported mineral reserves, mineral resources and production of a property.
References & Notes:
Kookynie Royalty is split in two separate terms: a. Kookynie (Melita) Royalty – which covers the Puzzle Deposit: A$1/t production royalty >650Kt cumulative ore mined and treated. b. Kookynie (Consolidated Gold) Royalty – which covers the Puzzle North Discovery: A$1/tonne (for each Ore Reserve with a gold grade <= 5g/t Au), for grades > 5g/t Au royalty = ((Ore grade per Tonne – 5) x 0.5)+1).
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 15, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Silver Hammer Mining Corp. (CSE: HAMR) (the “Company” or “Silver Hammer”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Morgan Lekstrom as CEO of the Company and Alnesh Mohan as Corporate Secretary of the Company, effective immediately.
Morgan Lekstrom, currently serving as the President of Silver Hammer, will now assume the role of President and CEO and Alnesh Mohan, currently serving as the CFO of Silver Hammer, will now resume the role of Corporate Secretary. Michael Dake, who has served as CEO of the Company since 2017, will step down from his executive role and will remain as a director of Silver Hammer.
“We thank Michael for his service and expertise, including helping take Silver Hammer (formerly Lakewood Exploration) public and wish him success in his future endeavors,” stated Morgan Lekstrom. “I am excited to undertake the role of CEO, leading a team of industry experts as we grow and advance our portfolio of top-tier, US silver assets.”
About Silver Hammer Mining Corp.
Silver Hammer Mining Corp. is a junior resource company advancing the past-producing Silver Strand Mine in the Coeur d’Alene Mining District in Idaho, USA, both the Eliza Silver Project and the Silverton Silver Mine in one of the world’s most prolific mining jurisdictions in Nevada and the Lacy Gold Project in British Columbia, Canada. The Company has commenced an initial drill program at Silver Strand that will test for silver and gold mineralization immediately below the mine’s lowest level extending only 90 metres below surface. Silver Hammer strives to become a multi-mine silver producer and will focus near-term exploration and drilling plans at the Company’s Idaho and Nevada silver-gold assets.
*Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the Company’s property.
On Behalf of the Board of Silver Hammer Mining Corp.
Morgan Lekstrom, President
Corporate Office: 551 Howe Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6C 2C2, Canada
Contact: Kristina Pillon, President, High Tide Consulting Corp.
604.908.1695 / investors@silverhammermining.com
The CSE does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.
VANCOUVER BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 14, 2021 / Granite Creek Copper Ltd. (TSXV:GCX)(OTCQB:GCXXF) (“Granite Creek” or the “Company“) is pleased to announce the receipt of positive results from metallurgy testing completed on sulfide mineralized core samples from the Company’s Carmacks project.
Testing was completed as part of trade-off studies now underway under the direction of Sedgman Canada and Mining Plus with the objective of developing the basis for an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”) on the project. Two representative samples of copper sulfide material and one sample of copper oxide material were delivered to Bureau Veritas Commodities, Metallurgy Division, for rougher flotation kinetic testing and open cleaner flotation testing. The purpose of the testing was to determine how amenable the sulfide mineralization present at the Carmacks deposit was to concentration by flotation, what recoveries could be expected, and to lay the groundwork for further testing. A preliminary copper flotation recovery model was generated at a fixed 25% copper concentrate grade with test results as summarized below:
Recoveries of greater than 95% for copper into a 25% copper concentrate are possible.
Copper sulfide minerals are well-liberated for rougher recovery via flotation at P80 of 150 µm.
A secondary regrind size at P80 of 25 µm can achieve 25% copper grade and high cleaner stage recovery.
Gold is associated primarily with copper sulfide minerals and minor pyrite. Flotation of gold with copper concentrate is likely the most economical way to recover gold.
High chalcopyrite content as the copper mineral and low pyrite content within the samples indicate a simple reagent scheme and relatively easy copper flotation upgrade.
The preliminary tests indicate that well-established flotation methods with known reagents will likely be the preferred processing method for sulfide material at Carmacks. The next stage of metallurgical test work will involve greater variability of samples to validate copper and gold recoveries as well as assessing potential levels of silver and molybdenum recoveries.https://s.yimg.com/rq/darla/4-9-0/html/r-sf-flx.html
Granite Creek President and CEO, Tim Johnson, commented, “These initial metallurgical results are very encouraging and are an important step in bringing the sulfide resources present at the Carmacks deposit into an updated mine plan and PEA. The Company’s belief in, and focus on, the copper sulfide potential at Carmacks and Carmacks North is being validated and advanced with every phase of work completed. We look forward to continuing to roll out the Carmacks story with substantive news flow throughout the remainder of the year and into 2022, including drill results from the recently completed, three-phase 2021 campaign.”
About Granite Creek Copper
Granite Creek, a member of the Metallic Group of Companies, is a Canadian exploration company focused on the 176-square-kilometer Carmacks project in the Minto copper district of Canada’s Yukon Territory. The project is on trend with the high-grade Minto copper-gold mine, operated by Minto Explorations Ltd, to the north, and features excellent access to infrastructure with the nearby paved Yukon Highway 2, along with grid power within 12 km. More information about Granite Creek Copper can be viewed on the Company’s website at www.gcxcopper.com.
Mr (Sam) Yoon Seong Cho, MASC P.Eng., a qualified person for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure contained in this news release.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements”. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts including, without limitation, statements regarding potential mineralization, historic production, estimation of mineral resources, the realization of mineral resource estimates, interpretation of prior exploration and potential exploration results, the timing and success of exploration activities generally, the timing and results of future resource estimates, permitting timelines, metal prices and currency exchange rates, availability of capital, government regulation of exploration operations, environmental risks, reclamation, title, and future plans and objectives of the company are forward-looking statements that involve various risks and uncertainties. Although Granite Creek Copper believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include failure to obtain necessary approvals, unsuccessful exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, results of future resource estimates, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, risks associated with regulatory changes, defects in title, availability of personnel, materials and equipment on a timely basis, accidents or equipment breakdowns, uninsured risks, delays in receiving government approvals, unanticipated environmental impacts on operations and costs to remedy same, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the companies with securities regulators. Readers are cautioned that mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral exploration and development of mines is an inherently risky business. Accordingly, the actual events may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For more information on Granite Creek Copper and the risks and challenges of their businesses, investors should review their annual filings that are available at www.sedar.com.
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.
