YERINGTON, Nev., Nov. 30, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper Corp. (TSX: NCU) (OTC: NEVDF)(FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) today provided an update on its operations, including advances at the Company’s underground mine at its Pumpkin Hollow Project (the “Underground Mine”) and an update on its 2022 development plan.
Underground Mine Operations Highlights
Lateral Development Rates Continue to Rise. The Company has advanced approximately 760 lateral equivalent feet in the past 30 days, a 20% increase in average daily footage from the previous 30 days. Lateral development continues on multiple headings, providing access to ore mining zones in the East South orebody and advancing development towards the East North orebody.
Sugar Cube to be Blasted Shortly. The high-grade Sugar Cube zone is planned to be drilled in December and mining is expected to commence in early Q1 2022. This will be the first stope mined in the East North orebody, which is expected to have higher quality ground conditions and significantly larger stope sizes.
Processing Plant Operating Well. The mill continues to run at design specifications with the grinding, flotation, thickening, and concentrate filtration circuits performing well mechanically. The Company anticipates increased production and recovery rates with the addition of the Sugar Cube zone to the processing plant’s ore feed in Q1 2022.
Surface Ventilation Fans on Schedule. The surface ventilation fans are on schedule to arrive on site in approximately 3 weeks with installation and commissioning expected to be completed on time in line with the demands of the mine plan.
2022 Development Plan Update
Open Pit Drilling and Progressing. With additional funding received from the Company’s recent public equity offering, the Company intends to undertake an infill drilling campaign and to update its open pit studies to reflect opportunities for increased scale, larger resource and other optimization workstreams. Further updates on the Company’s 2022 development plan will be released shortly.
“I am pleased with the operational advances we have achieved this month, as we build on the progress from Q3,” stated Randy Buffington, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our development rates continue to increase on a weekly basis and will soon provide access to the larger high-grade stopes, which is expected to result in increased ore feed delivered to our fully operational processing plant for a step further in our ramp-up progression.”
Qualified Persons The technical information and data in this news release was reviewed by Greg French, C.P.G., VP Head of Exploration of Nevada Copper, and Neil Schunke, P.Eng., a consultant to Nevada Copper, who are non-independent Qualified Persons within the meaning of NI 43-101.
About Nevada Copper Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is a copper producer and owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project. Located in Nevada, USA, Pumpkin Hollow has substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade Underground Mine and processing facility, which is now in the production stage, and a large-scale open pit project, which is advancing towards feasibility status.
NEVADA COPPER CORP. www.nevadacopper.com
Randy Buffington, President and CEO
For further information contact: Rich Matthews, Investor Relations Integrous Communications rmatthews@integcom.us +1 604 757 7179
Cautionary Language
This news release includes certain statements and information that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to mine development, production and ramp-up objectives, equipment installation, drilling programs and the completion of a new feasibility study.
Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.
Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: the ability of the Company to complete the ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; requirements for additional capital and no assurance can be given regarding the availability thereof; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rates increase; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labor disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2020 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 18, 2021. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or information. The forward-looking information or statements are stated as of the date hereof. Nevada Copper disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Readers are referred to the additional information regarding Nevada Copper’s business contained in Nevada Copper’s reports filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. For more information on Nevada Copper and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review Nevada Copper’s filings that are available at www.sedar.com.
Nevada Copper provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.
November 29, 2021 – Vancouver, BC – Group Ten Metals Inc. (TSX.V: PGE | OTCQB: PGEZF; FSE: 5D32) (the “Company” or “>Group Ten”) is pleased to announce that it has signed a Definitive Agreement (the “Agreement”) with Heritage Mining Ltd. (“Heritage”) per the binding Letter of Intent (the “LOI”) announced August 26, 2021. By the terms of the Agreement, and subject to the earn-in requirements specified therein, Heritage can acquire up to a 90% interest in Group Ten’s Black Lake-Drayton gold project (the “Property”) in Ontario, Canada.
Group Ten also announces that it has initiated the exploration program required by the Agreement, with a focus on advancing and refining existing targets identified in past campaigns, as well as advancing new targets. To this end, the 2021 program includes re-sampling of core from 1996-2002 drill campaigns programs at the Moretti, Dragfold, and Bonanza targets, focused prospecting in areas of interest identified by the 2017 geophysical modelling and interpretation report, and a basal till sampling program intended to expand upon successful 2018 and 2020 programs.
Group Ten President and CEO, Michael Rowley stated, “We are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of the first in what we expect will ultimately become a series of deals whereby Group Ten begins to realize value for our non-core assets. Black Lake-Drayton, like our Kluane Ni-Cu-PGE project, is a high-quality brownfields project that is district-scale in size and 100%-owned by the Company. The Agreement with Heritage Mining provides Group Ten with significant exposure to the gold market while allowing us to focus on our 100%-owned Stillwater West project in Montana, where we see terrific potential to expand our recent inaugural resource estimates of first-world nickel, copper, palladium, platinum, rhodium, gold and cobalt. Core from 2021 resource expansion drilling at Stillwater West is progressing through the assay lab and we look forward to a series of news releases announcing results starting in the coming weeks, as well as updates on other initiatives including our work in carbon sequestration.”
Heritage Mining’s CEO, Peter Schloo stated, “It is rare that a project of this size and quality becomes available, and we appreciate Group Ten’s faith in our ability to add significant shareholder value in a timely manner. We are very excited about the Black Lake-Drayton project and look forward to developing the property in a systematic manner. This is a pivotal point in Heritage Mining’s path, and we look forward to the future. We anticipate a go-public listing shortly, pending market conditions.”
Upcoming Events
Live Webinar – Amvest Capital
Group Ten Metals President and CEO, Michael Rowley, will provide an overview and update on the Company and our flagship Stillwater West battery metals and platinum group elements project during a live webinar event hosted by Amvest Capital on Monday, November 29th at 13:05 PT / 16:05 ET. To register, click here.
Virtual Investor Conference – OTC Markets Group
Group Ten has been invited to present at the upcoming Mining & Metals Virtual Investor Conference hosted by OTC Markets Group on Wednesday, December 8th at 12:00 PM PT / 3:00 PM ET. Topics of discussion will include the Company’s recently announced NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate, the 2021 expansion drill campaign, and upcoming, near-term catalysts. To register, click here.
Terms of the Heritage Mining Definitive Agreement
Under the terms of the Agreement, Heritage may acquire a 90% undivided interest in the Property by making payments totaling 7.2 million shares and CAD $300,000 in cash to Group Ten, completing exploration and development work totaling CAD $5 million on the Property, granting Group Ten a 10% carried interest in the Property through completion of a feasibility study, and completing other requirements including potential success-based discovery payments, as detailed below:
Heritage shall issue 2,800,000 shares to Group Ten within ten (10) business days of obtaining a public listing on a specified exchange.
Heritage may earn a 51% interest (the “First Option”) in the Property by completing the following on or before the third anniversary of the “Agreement:
Issuing an additional 3.3 million shares to Group Ten;
Completing cash payments totaling CAD $300,000; and
Completing exploration work totaling CAD $2.5 million.
Upon completion of the First Option, Heritage may earn an additional 39% ownership interest in the Property (the “Second Option”) for a cumulative 90% interest by completion of the following on or before the fourth anniversary of the Agreement:
Issuing an additional 1.1 million shares to Group Ten; and
Completing additional exploration work totaling CAD $2.5 million.
In addition, the LOI provides the following:
A discovery payment of $1.00 per ounce of gold or gold equivalent shall be made on mineral resource estimates as filed from time-to-time on the Property and shall, in Heritage’s discretion, be paid in cash or shares (or a combination thereof), capped at a maximum of $10 million.
Upon completion of the Second Option, Group Ten will retain a 10% free carried interest in the Project, with Heritage being responsible for all Property costs until completion by Heritage of a positive feasibility study supported by a technical report prepared in accordance with NI 43-101 on the Property (the “FS”).
The Agreement provides for the formation of a Joint Venture (“JV”) based on the then legal and beneficial ownership levels in the Property following completion of the FS. A JV may also be formed in the event Heritage does not complete the requirements of the Second Option.
Heritage will be required to maintain minimum exploration and development expenditures of CAD $500,000 per annum until the completion of the FS in order to maintain status as operator of the JV. Group Ten maintains certain back-in rights in the event Heritage does not meet minimum expenditure requirements.
Group Ten is required to complete CAD $300,000 of exploration work on the Property within the first year of the Agreement.
Black Lake – Drayton Gold Project Overview
The 100%-owned Black Lake–Drayton project consists of 137 square kilometers in the Abrams‐Minnitaki Lake Archean greenstone belt, along the northern margin of the Wabigoon sub-province in Ontario, Canada. The Property has significant exploration potential with demonstrated high-grade gold in drill results and bulk samples across more than 30 kilometers of underexplored strike in a geologic setting that is shared with Treasury Metals’ development-stage Goliath Gold Complex project in a highly active gold belt that also hosts Rainy River’s New Gold mine and other deposits. The geological models and exploration methods that have successfully proven up over 14 million ounces of gold at Treasury, New Gold, and other projects in the region since the 1990s have yet to be systematically applied at Black Lake – Drayton. Access and infrastructure are excellent on the Property, which features direct road access, and proximity to rail and power.
About Heritage Mining
Heritage Mining Ltd. is a private, well-capitalized company focused on acquiring Tier-1, advanced stage precious and base metal exploration projects and/or the junior/micro-producer project stage. Heritage’s board and management Team have a proven track record of shareholder value creation with over 100 years of combined experience in the mining and exploration sector. For more information, visit the Heritage Mining website.
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 is focused on its 100%-owned, flagship Stillwater West battery metals and platinum group elements project in Montana, USA, adjacent to the high-grade PGE mines operated by Sibanye-Stillwater. In October 2021, the Company announced its inaugural NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate, with an update expected in Q1 2022 subject to results from an expansion drill campaign in 2021 from which assays are pending.
Group Ten also holds two additional district-scale brownfields assets including the high-grade Black Lake-Drayton Gold project adjacent to Treasury Metals’ development-stage Goliath Gold Complex in northwest Ontario (now subject to an earn-in by Heritage Mining), and the Kluane PGE-Ni-Cu-Co project on trend with Nickel Creek Platinum‘s Wellgreen deposit in Canada‘s Yukon Territory.
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 the execution of a definitive agreement, the completion of the proposed transaction and the receipt of any cash or share payments therefrom, future exploration and development expenditures, the sale of non-core assets, potential mineralization, the realization of mineral resource estimates, the timing and success of exploration activities generally or the completion of a feasibility study, the timing and results of future resource estimates, future driling activities, 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 (including board and stock exchange approvals), the failure to negotiate and execute the Agreement on the terms currently contemplated or at all, 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.
YERINGTON, Nev., Nov. 29, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nevada Copper Corp. (TSX: NCU)(OTC: NEVDF) (FSE: ZYTA) (“Nevada Copper” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that it has completed its previously announced public offering of units of the Company (the “Units”), which included the partial exercise of the over-allotment option (the “Over-Allotment Option”) by a syndicate of underwriters that included Scotiabank, Jett Capital LLC, RBC Capital Markets, Haywood Securities Inc. and Research Capital Corporation. As announced on November 11, 2021, the public offering (the “Offering”) was upsized due to strong demand, including from new and existing institutional investors and mining sector corporates.
The Company issued an aggregate of 162,644,300 Units and 2,000,000 Warrants (as defined below), including 14,544,300 Units and 2,000,000 Warrants pursuant to the partial exercise of the Over-Allotment Option, at a price of C$0.77 per Unit (the “Offering Price”) and C$0.08 per Warrant, for aggregate gross proceeds of approximately C$125.4 million. Each Unit consists of one common share of the Company (each a “Common Share”) and one-half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each full warrant, a “Warrant”). Each Warrant is exercisable for one Common Share (each a “Warrant Share”) at a price of C$1.00 per Warrant Share until May 29, 2023.
The proceeds of the Offering will be sufficient to satisfy the condition to the effectiveness of the previously announced amendments to the Company’s amended and restated credit facility with its senior project lender, KfW-IPEX Bank (the “KfW Facility”), for a significant deferral and extension of its debt facilities. See the Company’s October 12, 2021 news release for additional details on the amendments to the KfW Facility.
In connection with the closing of the Offering, the Company’s largest shareholder, Pala Investments Limited (“Pala”), has maintained its current shareholding percentage in the Company by completing the purchase, on a private placement basis, of 98,104,584 Units, at the Offering Price in the aggregate amount of approximately C$75.5 million (the “Concurrent Private Placement”). The consideration for the Concurrent Private Placement was the full repayment of the promissory note entered into between the Company and Pala on June 10, 2021, as amended and restated, and the partial repayment of debt owing by the Company to Pala under the credit facility entered into between the Company and Pala on February 3, 2021 (the “Credit Facility”).
As previously announced, in connection with the Offering and the Concurrent Private Placement, Pala and the Company have agreed to amend and restate the Credit Facility on the terms set forth in the binding term sheet entered into between the Company and Pala on November 10, 2021 (the “Amended Credit Facility”). The Amended Credit Facility will have a principal amount of approximately US$32 million and an extended maturity date to January 31, 2026. The Amended Credit Facility will contain an accordion feature allowing the Company to draw up to an additional US$15 million under the Amended Credit Facility, subject to the agreement of Pala and the prior acceptance by the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”). The Company expects to enter into the Amended Credit Facility on or about November 30, 2021. In connection with entering into the Amended Credit Facility, the Company will issue 15,000,000 Common Share purchase warrants (the “Credit Facility Warrants”) to Pala. Each Credit Facility Warrant will entitle Pala to purchase, on or before January 31, 2026, one Common Share at an exercise price equal to a 25% premium to the 5-day volume weighted average price of the Common Shares as of the trading day immediately prior to the entering into of the Amended Credit Facility. Pursuant to the requirements of the TSX, the approval of disinterested shareholders of the Company will be required to be obtained before the Credit Facility Warrants become exercisable.
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
About Nevada Copper
Nevada Copper (TSX: NCU) is a copper producer and owner of the Pumpkin Hollow copper project. Located in Nevada, USA, Pumpkin Hollow has substantial reserves and resources including copper, gold and silver. Its two fully permitted projects include the high-grade underground mine (the “Underground Mine”) and processing facility, which is now in the production stage, and a large-scale open pit project, which is advancing towards feasibility status.
NEVADA COPPER CORP. www.nevadacopper.com
Randy Buffington, President and CEO
For further information contact: Rich Matthews, Investor Relations Integrous Communications rmatthews@integcom.us +1 604 757 7179
Cautionary Language
This news release includes certain statements and information that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information specifically include, but are not limited to, statements that relate to the entering into of the Amended Credit Facility and the timing in respect thereof, and the issuance and approval of the Credit Facility Warrants.
Forward-looking statements and information include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements and forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements or information should not be read as guarantees of future performance and results. They are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and events to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information.
Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, those relating to: the ability of the Company to complete the ramp-up of the Underground Mine within the expected cost estimates and timeframe; requirements for additional capital and no assurance can be given regarding the availability thereof; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the business and operations of the Company; the state of financial markets; history of losses; dilution; adverse events relating to milling operations, construction, development and ramp-up, including the ability of the Company to address underground development and process plant issues; failure to enter into the Amended Credit Facility; ground conditions; cost overruns relating to development, construction and ramp-up of the Underground Mine; loss of material properties; interest rates increase; global economy; limited history of production; future metals price fluctuations; speculative nature of exploration activities; periodic interruptions to exploration, development and mining activities; environmental hazards and liability; industrial accidents; failure of processing and mining equipment to perform as expected; labor disputes; supply problems; uncertainty of production and cost estimates; the interpretation of drill results and the estimation of mineral resources and reserves; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; possible variations in ore reserves, grade of mineralization or recovery rates from management’s expectations and the difference may be material; legal and regulatory proceedings and community actions; accidents; title matters; regulatory approvals and restrictions; increased costs and physical risks relating to climate change, including extreme weather events, and new or revised regulations relating to climate change; permitting and licensing; volatility of the market price of the Company’s securities; insurance; competition; hedging activities; currency fluctuations; loss of key employees; other risks of the mining industry as well as those risks discussed in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis in respect of the year ended December 31, 2020 and in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 18, 2021. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or information. The forward-looking information or statements are stated as of the date hereof. Nevada Copper disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements or information except as required by law. Readers are referred to the additional information regarding Nevada Copper’s business contained in Nevada Copper’s reports filed with the securities regulatory authorities in Canada. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that could cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. For more information on Nevada Copper and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review Nevada Copper’s filings that are available at www.sedar.com.
Nevada Copper provides no assurance that forward-looking statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements or information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information.
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – November 29, 2021) – EMX Royalty Corporation (NYSE American: EMX) (TSXV: EMX) (FSE: 6E9) (the “Company“, or “EMX“) is pleased to announce receipt of a US $2.25 million payment for the Berenguela silver-copper project (“Berenguela” or the “Project”) in Peru from Aftermath Silver Ltd. (TSXV: AAG) (OTCQB: AAGFF) (“Aftermath Silver”). EMX’s interest in Berenguela resulted from the Company’s acquisition of a portfolio of royalty interests and payments from SSR Mining Inc. and certain of its subsidiaries (“SSR Mining”) (see EMX news releases dated July 29, and October 21, 2021).
Aftermath Silver’s payment is per a definitive acquisition agreement, originally executed with SSR Mining, that outlined a series of staged cash payments (initially totaling US$13 million) and other consideration to acquire 100% interest in the Project, and upon commercial production that will pay a sliding-scale net smelter returns (“NSR”) royalty (see Aftermath Silver news releases dated October 1, and November 23, 2020). The payments are scheduled according to anniversaries of the transaction’s closing date of November 23, 2020 (the “Initial Closing Date”). Aftermath Silver’s cash payment and NSR royalty commitments to EMX for the Berenguela Project are outlined below.
US$2.25 million cash to be paid on the first anniversary of the Initial Closing Date. This payment has now been received by EMX;
US$2.5 million cash to be paid on the second anniversary of the Initial Closing Date (i.e., November 23, 2022);
US$3 million cash to be paid on the fourth anniversary of the Initial Closing Date (i.e., November 23, 2024);
Completion of a preliminary feasibility study (“PFS”) and filing on SEDAR of a National Instrument 43-101 technical report summarizing the PFS, within 48 months of the Initial Closing Date (i.e., on or before November 23, 2024);
US$3.25 million cash to be paid on the sixth anniversary of the Initial Closing Date (i.e., November 23, 2026); and
A sliding-scale NSR royalty on all mineral production from the Berenguela Project for the life of mine commencing at the declaration of commercial production, and based on the following:
1% NSR royalty on all mineral production when the silver market price is up to and including US$25 per ounce;
1.25% NSR royalty on all mineral production when the silver market price is over US$25 per ounce and when the copper market price is above US$2 per pound.
EMX’s interest in Berenguela provides a source of immediate cash flow to the Company, as well as upside potential from future NSR royalty payments on silver-copper production from the Project. Berenguela, which is located in the Puno mining region of southern Peru, serves as a good example of the type of cash flowing mineral property asset that EMX is focused on adding to its growing royalty portfolio.
Michael P. Sheehan, CPG, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and an employee of the Company, has reviewed, verified, and approved the disclosure of the technical information contained in this news release.
About EMX. EMX is a precious, base and battery metals royalty company. EMX’s investors are provided with discovery, development, and commodity price optionality, while limiting exposure to risks inherent to operating companies. The Company’s common shares are listed on the NYSE American Exchange and TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “EMX”, as well as on the Frankfurt exchange under the symbol “6E9”. Please see www.EMXroyalty.com for more information.
For further information contact:
David M. Cole President and Chief Executive Officer Phone: (303) 973-8585 Dave@EMXroyalty.com
Scott Close Director of Investor Relations Phone: (303) 973-8585 SClose@EMXroyalty.com
Neither the TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward-Looking Statements
This news release may contain “forward looking statements” that reflect the Company’s current expectations and This news release may contain “forward looking statements” that reflect the Company’s current expectations and projections about its future results. These forward-looking statements may include statements regarding perceived merit of properties, exploration results and budgets, mineral reserves and resource estimates, work programs, capital expenditures, timelines, strategic plans, market prices for precious and base metal, or other statements that are not statements of fact. When used in this news release, words such as “estimate,” “intend,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “will”, “believe”, “potential”, “upside” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, which, by their very nature, are not guarantees of the Company’s future operational or financial performance, and are subject to risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the Company’s actual results, performance, prospects or opportunities to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties and factors may include, but are not limited to: unavailability of financing, failure to identify commercially viable mineral reserves, fluctuations in the market valuation for commodities, difficulties in obtaining required approvals for the development of a mineral project, increased regulatory compliance costs, expectations of project funding by joint venture partners and other factors.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release or as of the date otherwise specifically indicated herein. Due to risks and uncertainties, including the risks and uncertainties identified in this news release, and other risk factors and forward-looking statements listed in the Company’s MD&A for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 (the “MD&A”), and the most recently filed Annual Information Form (the “AIF”) for the year ended December 31, 2020, actual events may differ materially from current expectations. More information about the Company, including the MD&A, the AIF and financial statements of the Company, is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on the SEC’s EDGAR website at www.sec.gov.
Joining us for a conversation is Greg Johnson, the CEO of Metallic Minerals. It’s a great time to be speaking with you as Metallic Minerals has some exciting news for shareholders. Before we begin, Mr. Johnson, please introduce us to Metallic Minerals and the opportunity the company presents to shareholders.
Greg Johnson:
Metallic Minerals is a silver-focused, exploration development stage company. The flagship asset is in the Keno silver district, one of the world’s highest-grade producing silver districts. A second asset in the high-grade silver-gold La Plata district, and our last asset, which is our Klondike alluvial gold project. We are headed up by a group of experienced explorer developers with a track record of successful discovery and project advancement.
Maurice:
Mr. Johnson, Metallic Minerals has some great news to provide shareholders on three fronts. First on the flagship Keno silver project, as well as updates from the La Plata and the Klondike alluvial projects. Beginning in the Yukon, sir, take us onsite to the high-grade Keno silver project, which has just announced the completion of what was the most expansive exploration program to date. First off, congratulations, sir.
Greg Johnson:
The Keno silver project is our flagship. We’re a couple of years into the acquisitions and initial development of the targets, and this was one of our biggest programs to date in 2021.
Maurice:
Mr. Johnson, the Keno silver project has three main areas within the west, central, and eastern parts of the high-grade silver producing district. Beginning at the central Keno, Mr. Johnson, walk us through the 2021 exploration program, which is a multiphase program of RC and diamond core drilling. What is Metallic Minerals looking for and what are you seeing?
Greg Johnson:
Allow me to me set the stage here. The district itself is about 35 kilometers wide, and we break it into three sectors or target areas, as you said, the west, central, and eastern parts. And each one of them is about 10 to 12 kilometers long. It’s a really big area, and we see the continuity of similar styles of mineralization from one side of the district to the other. Most of the production historically has been on that western half of the district where we’ve seen over 300 million ounces of past production plus current resources. And it’s one of the world’s highest grade 43-101 resources.
Greg Johnson:
Starting in the central part of the district this year, we kicked off a program looking at our advanced target areas. This is specifically in the Caribou and Homestake areas where we targeted stepping out along the already defined structures there, where we’ve hit ore grades over minable widths. We’re stepping out, we’re building tonnage. The drilling indicates that we’ve had some really good successful hits there, some big step by outs that we’re waiting to see results come back from the assay lab, but we’re quite pleased with the ability to be able to extend those advanced stage targets in the central part district.
Maurice:
Moving on to the west Keno, what can you share with us?
Greg Johnson:
So west Keno is focused in that area of significant historic production. This is nearby Alexco, who’s going back, has just recently gone back into production, and where they’ve got several major discoveries. So our targets there, west Keno, are right on these known very high-production areas. The Formo, Silver Queen are the two main targets here. Core drilling, to again step out along areas of known mineralization that have already been intercepted and being able to continue to build on those towards a first mineral resource, both central and the western parts of the district for Metallic Minerals.
Maurice:
Let’s move on to the emerging heavyweight, which is the east Keno, where it appears to have both the Keno style mineralization of ultra high-grade veins and bulk tonnage silver mineralization, which is now new in the district. To set the stage on this unique value proposition, in 2020 Metallic Minerals previously released significant bulk tonnage style intercepts on the east Keno. Do you mind sharing those numbers with us and how it fits in with your neighbor, Alexco, which has recently gone into full production?
Greg Johnson:
Yeah, this is pretty exciting. Metallic Minerals came into the district recognizing that you’ve got all this production on the western half of the district. The geology doesn’t stop at the claim boundary. It continues onto our ground, the same geologic setting. We started to collect samples, geophysics, and soils, and rocks, and mapping and started putting this together. Last year we’d identified 12 separate multi-kilometer-scale targets. These are big targets, both soil anomalies, and geophysical anomalies. And we put the first reconnaissance holes in 2020. We hit in 26 out of 30 holes. That’s an amazing track record for a first-phase reconnaissance drill program. A big part of this year’s program was coming back in and starting to step off from those hits last year, moving laterally, moving down dip, and we’re starting to put together an understanding of the scale of mineralization in this area.
Greg Johnson:
We also drilled the first core holes in this area this year. Deeper holes targeted at both geophysics and offsetting the reverse circulation drilling. So we’re pretty excited about what’s coming together here. The significance of what we’re seeing in the east is that not only are we seeing classic high-grade Keno style veins, which is what Alexco and most of the historic production has been based on, but we’re seeing zones up to a hundred meters or more of continuous disseminated silver mineralization. And this holds out the potential for bulk tonnage for something that could be much larger than anything that’s been seen in the district before.
Maurice:
Now along with the drilling, Metallic Minerals also completed an extensive Induced Polarization survey, and I noticed in the latest press release that Metallic Minerals made the following reference about six times: “Regional thrust vaults and associated epithermal style mineralization”. Now, as a shareholder, I’m keen to find out more. Any nuggets that you can share with us regarding the IP survey?
Greg Johnson:
Yeah, so this is an example of our effort to try to take a known productive district to extrapolate into the areas that have been less explored, and then to bring in new exploration targets, target types, models, and new modern exploration techniques. This is the first time we’ve ever applied what’s called induced polarization geophysics. This is where you put a charge in the ground, these were multi-kilometer-long lines, they allow you to sense as deep as 800 or a 1,000 meters from the surface, and this allows us to be able to start to map the subsurface even before we start drilling.
Greg Johnson:
And what’s exciting about this, is that that work over the east Keno targets was demonstrating that we’re getting conductors in the subsurface rocks that are correlating spatially with these big soil and magnetic features. The significant reason is if we’re hitting silver mineralization in the shallow drilling, and we’ve got a geophysical target that continues to 800 meters or more, and we’ve got multiple targets in the kilometric scale, it’s starting to suggest we’ve got a very strong plumbing system and that this could be a target that could really have the scale to it and potentially build this out to something significant.
Maurice:
Now that the exploration is complete this year at the Keno silver project, when can we expect to see results, and what determines success?
Greg Johnson:
We started in the central part of the district, that’ll be the first area that we’ll start to see numbers. Then on the Eastern side of the district with both RC and Diamon Core. And then last we wrapped up with the western part of the district with core drilling. We’re right now finalizing our interpretation on the IPE geophysics, so that’ll be integrated, and I could see us seeing numbers starting here really any time and continuing early into the new year. It’s going to be an exciting period. We’re starting to see a turnaround in the market and the interest over in gold, again, after more than a year of corrupt consolidation and correction. So this will be a great time in terms of catalyst from the news coming from the Keno silver project.
Maurice:
Let’s move south to Colorado, to the La Plata silver gold-copper project, where the season is just about wrapped up, and this is an emerging asset for Metallic Minerals. It has all the merits and hallmarks of a flagship project in its own right. Now Metallic Minerals just completed its first drilling in decades on the La Plata to bring up the La Plata up to NI 43-101 standards. It’s a project that was recognized and worked on by some of the majors in the past. Please tell us a bit about the project and the 2021 program and when we might expect to see results.
Greg Johnson:
I’m excited about the La Plata Project. This was an opportunity that came in through our network. It’s a project area that, very similar to Keno Hill, had a history of high-grade silver and gold production from these high-grade veins, much like Keno. Located in the Southwestern part of the US, in Southwestern Colorado. That mining on the high-grade veins occurred from the 1800s to the 1940s. Then after World War II, we didn’t see the small miners come back, but we saw first Rio Tinto’s exploration group come into the district, recognizing that not only was there this high-grade production and occurrences, but that there was potential for bulk tonnage silver, gold, and copper. And they drilled several holes that really started to define that there was a porphyry system that sent in the center of this epithermal vein district.
Greg Johnson:
Following on that work, we had Phelps Dodge, which is now Freeport McMoRan coming to the district, and they continued to drill through the early 70s. And then Phelps Dodge sat on the project until 2002. The low in the last commodity price cycle, the group that we opted it from has held it for over 20 years. We’re the first to have an opportunity to take a look at this exciting project. We’re taking a very holistic approach. We’re going to be focused on both the bulk tonnage part of the system that’s related to these porphyries, as well as the high-grade silver and gold component. We’re bringing all the layers of modern geology and techniques for exploration to the table.
Greg Johnson:
This year’s program was focused on continuing to collect geophysics and soils and a very first confirmatory drilling and sampling that’s been done on the project in decades. We are just wrapping up that program now. I would expect to see results starting to come out fairly soon to move this quite rapidly to take the historic resource on the project and advance it with sufficient work to a modern 43-101. Again, this is going to be a project that’s going to have a series of news events in the relatively near future that are quite significant in advancing that into 2022.
Maurice:
Finally, let’s discuss the big year that Metallic Minerals has had on the Klondike alluvial gold royalty portfolio.
Greg Johnson:
This is an interesting one. It’s not the main focus of the company, but we had an opportunity a couple of years ago to pick up a portfolio of unmined Klondike alluvial ground. This is upstream from some of the biggest open-pit operations in the Klondike, in the Yukon, that produce over 50% of the Yukon’s gold from those mines each year. We’ve invited experienced operators on the ground. We’ve got three license areas currently that is fully permitted for production, two operators that have done significant work drilling, bulk sample testing. They are rapidly advancing this towards first production, and Metallic Minerals would take a production royalty. Anywhere from a 10% to a 15% royalty, depending on the stage of those license areas. We’re excited to see this advancement over this year’s work, and we’re anticipating very high potential that we’ll see these move into first production in 2022 for next season, and that’ll move to cash flow for Metallic Minerals on those properties.
Maurice:
Leaving the property bank, let’s look at some numbers. Sir, please provide the capital structure for Metallic Minerals.
Greg Johnson:
Metallic Minerals has about 136 million shares out, roughly a $65 million market cap. So we’re now out of that micro-cap area where we’re starting to get attention from some of the big investors. We’re well funded well into 2022 with the current treasury. We have no debt, so we’re in great shape to have been able to have an aggressive program on all three projects this year and moving into next year to continue our business model, which is one to define resources, grow resources, and advance those and de-risk them, creating value along the way. Very similar to what the team did with Novagold in the last metal price cycle.
Maurice:
Speaking of big investors, you have a great shareholder list. Could you comment on that, and the recent ownership by Eric Sprott?
Greg Johnson:
Yeah, we’re in this period now where the company is moving from a very early stage, exploration stage, to resource stage. And with that, we’re seeing interest from some of the bigger investors. We’ve got US Global, we’ve got Crescat, we’ve got OTP Funds. These are all specialist funds that understand this part of the business for mining exploration and have taken significant stakes. In addition, Eric Sprott is our largest individual shareholder. He’s one of the largest holders in Novagold as well, so we’re really happy to have him in as an investor. And he just increased his ownership by exercising all of his warrants in the company, bringing in over CAD $1.5 million dollars. We’re pleased with that continued support from Eric. He is very bullish long-term on silver, and his investment in the company was focused on our exposure to silver in the Keno silver district, and a potential upside from our other assets.
Maurice:
Now I’m no Eric Sprott, but I am proud to share that I did exercise my warrants as well.
Greg Johnson:
I believe all those that participated in the financing exercised their warrants as well. Metallic Minerals is pleased to see that continued support from shareholders, and I’m pleased to see the market starting to come back alive for silver and gold. It’s been a bit of a painful 14 month plus period here with the market last peaking back in August of 2020. But I think we’ve turned the corner, and I’m quite bullish that we’ve put this consolidation behind us. It’s a great time for investors to be looking at high-quality names and silver in particular. And I think we’ve got real promise with a strong fundamental backing for Metallic Minerals in terms of the work we’re going to be undertaking to create value, and I think with our leverage to silver, gold, and potentially to copper as well here shortly.
Maurice:
I was going to ask you if you have any comments for shareholders, but I think that may just suffice. How about this, sir, any question that I forgot to ask you today, sir?
Greg Johnson:
No, I think we covered the gamut here, Maurice. It was great to be able to speak with you. I think that it’s an exciting time for investors and for those who are new to Metallic Minerals, we would invite people to contact us through our website.
sir. Mr. Johnson, it’s been a pleasure speaking with you. Wishing you and Metallic Minerals the absolute best, sir.
Before you make your next bullion purchase, contact me at 855.505.1900 or email maurice@milesfranklin.com. I’m a licensed representative for Miles Franklin Precious Metals Investments, where we provide a number of options to expand your precious metals portfolio from physical delivery to offshore depositories and precious metal IRAs. Finally, we invite you to subscribe to www.ProvenandProbable.com, where we provide Mining Insights and Bullion Sales.
The information presented on Proven and Probable is provided for educational and informational purposes only, without any express or implied warranty of any kind, including warranties of accuracy, completeness, or fitness for any particular purpose. The information is not intended to be and does not constitute financial investment or trading advice, or any other advice. You should not make any financial investment or trading decision based on any of the information presented without first undertaking independent due diligence and consultation with a professional broker or competent financial advisor.
Joining us for a conversation is Spencer Cole, the Chief Investment Officer of Vox Royalty. Mr. Cole, great time to be speaking with you as Vox Royalty continues to provide shareholders with a smart way to invest in commodities. Before we begin, Mr. Cole, please introduce us to Vox Royalty and the opportunity the company presents to shareholders.
Spencer Cole:
Vox Royalty is a high-growth, precious metals-focused, mining royalty investment company. The company’s been around for eight years, and over those eight years, we’ve built what we believe is the most unique mining royalty investment company in our entire $70 billion industry. We’re consistently delivering the highest rate of return on invested capital at what we believe is the lowest potential portfolio risk level. Particularly for some of your listeners who are concerned about inflation levels at the moment, we think Vox is a really attractive inflation hedge that offers investors high-organic growth with very low risk.
Maurice Jackson:
Last month, Vox Royalty announced some exciting news for shareholders regarding development and exploration updates from your royalty operating partners. This month appears equally exciting, as Vox Royalty has just announced additional key developments which look to strengthen your royalty portfolio. Beginning in Nevada, take us onto the Gold Standard Ventures South Railroad Gold Project, and provide us with an update on the feasibility study, permitting, and construction financing.
Spencer Cole:
The South Railroad Project is a rapidly advancing gold project in Nevada, which is obviously arguably one of the most pro-mining, particularly pro-gold mining jurisdictions on the planet. The operator just provided an update to the market that they’re rapidly approaching completion of the feasibility study, which is targeted for the first quarter of 20222. Upon the completion that feasibility study, they’re going to move straight into construction financing.
Spencer Cole:
Gold Standard Ventures already has one of the world’s largest mining private equity funds, Orion, who’s given them a $200 million term sheet to fund the construction of the mine. They’ll be looking to go back to other investment groups to see where the best source of financing is so going into early 2022, we expect a huge amount of exciting news flow as to how this project is going to be constructed, and then their management has also provided an update that they expect to receive their final permits to start construction of this project within 18 months, so a really exciting gold project that’s rapidly moving towards production over the coming years.
Maurice Jackson:
Speaking of exciting news for next year, let’s go to Black Cat’s Bulong Gold Project, where they’re looking at a first production guidance in 2022. What can you share with us?
Spencer Cole:
This is an exciting royalty within our portfolio for a few reasons, as you mentioned, the Black Cat Syndicate, which is the operator of this Bulong Gold Project, they just reiterated guidance. They’re expecting this gold mine to be in production in the second half of 2022, so investors can look forward to the royalty revenue possibly late next year. But a cherry on the cake, so to speak, with this royalty, is not only is the company actively moving this project forward towards production next year, but they’re aggressively drilling out the land package. On an annualized basis, they’re drilling over 80,000 meters on this land package. So not only are investors looking forward to, I guess, near-term royalty revenues on this property, but also, there’s likely to be a huge volume of discovery news flow over the coming months and quarters as they continue that drilling campaign.
Maurice Jackson:
We’ve covered gold. Let’s discuss silver and platinum group metals, beginning with silver at the Bowdens Silver Project by Silver Mines. How’s their drilling and development campaign coming along?
Spencer Cole:
It’s coming along extremely well. For readers who aren’t aware of the Bowdens Project, it’s the largest primary silver project in all of Australia. On a silver equivalent basis, there are approximately 275 million ounces of silver equivalent resources in the ground here, so just an extremely large ore body. The operator, Silver Mines, is working through final permitting at the moment. They’re also progressing an expansion case, looking at a high-grade underground that would go on top of the open pit operation. We expect that this project is rapidly heading towards a construction decision with final permits in hand next year. The managing director of the operator was recently quoted on Bloomberg as saying he personally believes there’s potential for this ore body to triple in size. So what is already a monstrously large silver deposit, the managing director of the operator thinks there’s a multiple of this potential in the ground, which is even more exciting for our investors.
Maurice Jackson:
Finally, my favorite metals, the Platinum Group Metals. What are the latest developments coming from ValOre?
Spencer Cole:
This is another exciting royalty within our portfolio of 54 royalties, The Pedra Branca Project, is ValOre’s flagship asset, it’s also the largest Platinum Group’s metal project and deposit in all of South America. ValOre has been aggressively drilling this property out, so they’ve been doing approximately a 10,000-meter drilling program this year, and our expectation from management is that they’re preparing for a resource update in the coming months. We look forward to seeing the size of this resource grow, and then for this project to continue to move along down the development pathway towards production over the coming years. So all eyes are on the resource update that we expect in the next few months.
Maurice Jackson:
Mr. Cole, as you look back at 2021 and then forward onto 2022, Vox Royalty, in many regards, has exceeded expectations in terms of your development, discovery drilling, and bolstering your royalty portfolio. Vox Royalty is on track for a record year on moving projects into production. Can you comment further on that?
Spencer Cole:
2021 has been a transformational year in Vox’s eight-year history. We’ve increased the number of producing royalty assets that we have in our portfolio to five. We’ve had record volumes of partner-funded drilling on our royalty properties. We’ve had a record number of projects, I guess, moving forward into sort of development stage as well, supporting the near-term growth potential as well. But then importantly for investors, as we look ahead towards next year, 2022, we expect that a lot of that key organic growth is even going to be outpaced and set to continue going into next year.
Spencer Cole:
Just by way of example, there are three additional projects that we expect to commence production next year that are in varying stages of construction currently. There are four separate feasibility studies that we expect to be released next year. The volume of drilling on our royalty properties, we expect that will achieve a new record in 2022 as well. So for Vox shareholders, they can look forward to a huge volume of organic growth in revenue and underlying development within our royalty properties without any additional capital required to acquire those royalties.
Maurice Jackson:
Now, before we leave the property bank, what is the next unanswered question for Vox Royalty? When can we expect a response and what determines success?
Spencer Cole:
I think as we touched on in our last interview, I think the main catalysts that investors continue to be excited about in Vox is just the organic growth within our portfolio and what that means for our revenue projections. As I touched on, we’ve seen a huge volume of growth on a number of our producing royalties. When we went public last year, we only had one producing royalty asset. And look, that was one criticism of the company, that people wanted us to have more producing assets, and where we stand today, we’ve now got five producing royalty assets. Organically, without spending any additional capital on new royalties, we expect that will increase from five producing royalty assets to 10, and north of 10 by late 2023.
Spencer Cole:
What is the unanswered question is how soon will those new royalty assets come into production and what does that mean for revenue, which has already been growing at quite a substantial rate? I think the great news for our investors is they don’t need to wait a very long time. This is a matter of months and quarters as they continue to see that growth organically within the portfolio, the incremental revenue that’s going to come from those producing operations.
Maurice Jackson:
Let’s look at some numbers. Sir, please provide us with the capital structure for Vox Royalty.
Spencer Cole:
We have a very tight capital structure at Vox. with less than 40 million shares on issue. We are in a net cash position on our balance sheet. Our total working capital is approximately nine million on the balance sheet between cash and listed investments. Vox has very strong balance sheet and we are very, very careful about not issuing stock. We, as management, own about 15 percent of the company, and our family members own additional stock on top of that, so this is very much an investor-led and managed business, where management is fully aligned with our investor group.
Maurice Jackson:
In closing, Mr. Cole, what would you like to say to shareholders?
Spencer Cole:
Thanks for the shareholders’ and listeners’ time today. I’d strongly encourage you to have a look at the Vox Royalty website. We’re on the cusp and continuing to deliver on a strategy that is high growth but low capital intensity, where we’re offering incredible returns at very disciplined prices. Particularly in this inflationary environment that we find ourselves in today, getting exposure to a portfolio of base and precious metal assets, such as Vox has in its portfolio, is a really smart way to hedge inflation risk. So I strongly encourage investors, particularly those that are worried about inflation, to seriously consider having a look at Vox Royalty in more detail.
Maurice Jackson:
Last question, sir. What did I forget to ask?
Spencer Cole:
I believe we’ve covered it all today.
Maurice Jackson:
Mr. Cole, for readers that wish to learn more about Vox Royalty, please share the contact details.
Mr. Cole, it’s been a pleasure speaking with you. Wishing you and Vox Royalty the absolute best, sir.
Before you make your next bullion purchase, contact me at 855.505.1900 or email maurice@milesfranklin.com. I’m a licensed representative for Miles Franklin Precious Metals Investments, where we provide a number of options to expand your precious metals portfolio from physical delivery to offshore depositories and precious metal IRAs. Finally, we invite you to subscribe to www.ProvenandProbable.com, where we provide Mining Insights and Bullion Sales.
The information presented on Proven and Probable is provided for educational and informational purposes only, without any express or implied warranty of any kind, including warranties of accuracy, completeness, or fitness for any particular purpose. The information is not intended to be and does not constitute financial, investment or trading advice, or any other advice. You should not make any financial investment or trading decision based on any of the information presented without first undertaking independent due diligence and consultation with a professional broker or competent financial advisor.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / November 23, 2021 / Noram Lithium Corp. (“Noram” or the “Company”) (TSX – Venture:NRM) (Frankfurt:N7R) (OTCQB:NRVTF) is pleased to announce that it continues to advance the Preliminary Economic Assessment (“PEA”) for its wholly-owned Zeus Lithium Project (“Zeus” or the “Project”), and is on schedule for release in Q4, 2021 in collaboration with ABH Engineering (“ABH”). After releasing its updated resource estimate on September 21, 2021 the Company and its team of technical experts were able to interpret and develop additional data on the Project to be included in the PEA now in the final stages of completion.
About Noram Lithium Corp.
Noram Lithium Corp (TSX – Venture:NRM / Frankfurt:N7R / OTCQB:NRVTF) is a Canadian-based junior exploration company, with a goal of developing lithium deposits and becoming a low-cost supplier. The Company’s primary business is the Zeus Lithium Project (“Zeus”) in Clayton Valley, Nevada. The Zeus Project has a recently updated resource estimate of 363 million tonnes at 923 ppm lithium measured + indicated resources, and 827 million tonnes lithium at 884 ppm lithium inferred resources (400 ppm Li cut-off).
Noram’s long-term strategy is to build a multi-national lithium minerals company to produce and sell lithium into the markets of Europe, North America and Asia.
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. This news release may contain forward-looking information which is not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this news release includes statements regarding, among other things, the completion transactions completed in the Agreement. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, regulatory approval processes. Although Noram believes that the assumptions used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, including that all necessary regulatory approvals will be obtained in a timely manner, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Noram disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by applicable securities laws.Story continues
This is going to be one of the more important pieces I have written in a long time because it offers a giant opportunity and lot of difficulty at the same time. The company is named
See More Live DataWest Wits Mining Ltd. (WWI:ASX). It is only Australian listed for right now. So you are going to have to have a really good broker just to buy it.
They plan on getting a dual listing with either the London Stock Exchange (Boo Hiss) or on a Canadian exchange early in 2022. If there is enough demand from American investors, some brokerage house will make an OTCBB listing for it but for now it’s going to be hard to get.
West Wits has two company making projects. The big one is to put the world famous Durban Deep Gold Mine back into small-scale production in Q1 of 2022. They will not take all the time and expense of permitting and building a mill of their own in the project just west of Johannesburg South Africa. The Durban Deep Mine comes with a historic 1997 JORC resource of 12.8 million ounces of high grade gold. It also has a current 3.55 million ounce JORC resource.
With a market cap today of $36 million USD West Wits is selling ounces of gold for less than $3. While the 12.8 million ounces is historic there is a current resource of 3.55 million ounces at 4.26 g/t Au. The mining lease has produced a total of 41 million ounces of gold in the 100 years it was in production. I don’t have any issue with saying it may not be 43-101 or current JORC but the 12.8 million ounces is just as real as any other.
The company has been granted a twenty-year mining right. There is a DFS on the first stage showing an NPV of $150 million USD at $1750 gold. That NPV nearly doubles to $327 million at $2000 gold so the value is especially sensitive to the POG. The DFS showed a twenty-two year mine life with an average production of 80 thousand ounces yearly with an AISC cost of $1,144. They intend production to begin in February 2022. For most of 2022 Wits West will be producing from the Run of Mine material left when the mine shut down in 2001. The formal mine plan production will begin in late 2022. The company anticipates production of between 370 ounces a month up to as many as 740 ounces per month during the interim period.
By planning for doing toll milling with nearby existing mills with surplus capacity West Wits is saving tens of millions of dollars and years of permitting headaches.
In addition to the gold resource at the Durban Deep mine, the project also contains as much as 20 million pounds of U3O8. Uranium is selling for $47.25 a pound so the company has an additional $940 million resource in the ground that can easily be mined and milled. Uranium can be processed with a simply process by soaking in hydrogen peroxide. And then letting the H2O2 evaporate leaving the uranium behind. It’s cheap and quick.
West Wits secondary property is located in Western Australia some 70 km west of Rio Tinto’s WINU copper/gold project. It’s an early stage exploration vehicle. They have run an airborne Electromagnetic survey that showed eight different target areas and four they feel are high priority. They are in the process of conducting a ground mag survey now that began in August to determine drill targets for 2022.
Durban Deep was one of the most famous gold mines in the Witwatersrand Basin. It didn’t close because of a lack of ore, there were management issues. West Wits has picked up one of the most potential and highest number of gold ounces in the world. At $3 an ounce US you can count on it going higher no matter what the price of gold does. Should gold skyrocket, as we believe it will, WWI will lead the way.
Until the company is trading either in Canada or the US it’s going to remain “potential” and interesting for North American investors. I have chatted with management and encouraged them to get listed in Canada just as soon as possible. The company has just announced a private placement for $7.86 million.
West Wits is an advertiser. They came to me. I have participated in their latest private placement so naturally I am biased. Do your own due diligence
Bob Moriarty founded 321gold.com, with his late wife, Barbara Moriarty, more than 16 years ago. They later added 321energy.com to cover oil, natural gas, gasoline, coal, solar, wind and nuclear energy. Both sites feature articles, editorial opinions, pricing figures and updates on current events affecting both sectors. Previously, Moriarty was a Marine F-4B and O-1 pilot with more than 832 missions in Vietnam. He holds 14 international aviation records.
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Disclosures: 1) Bob Moriarty: I, or members of my immediate household or family, own shares of the following companies mentioned in this article: West Wits Mining. West Wits Mining is an advertiser on 321 Gold. I determined which companies would be included in this article based on my research and understanding of the sector. 2) The following companies mentioned are billboard sponsors of Streetwise Reports: None. Click here for important disclosures about sponsor fees. 3) Statements and opinions expressed are the opinions of the author and not of Streetwise Reports or its officers. The author is wholly responsible for the validity of the statements. The author was not paid by Streetwise Reports for this article. Streetwise Reports was not paid by the author to publish or syndicate this article. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports requires contributing authors to disclose any shareholdings in, or economic relationships with, companies that they write about. Streetwise Reports relies upon the authors to accurately provide this information and Streetwise Reports has no means of verifying its accuracy. 4) The article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional and any action a reader takes as a result of information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports’ terms of use and full legal disclaimer. This article is not a solicitation for investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on Streetwise Reports. 5) From time to time, Streetwise Reports LLC and its directors, officers, employees or members of their families, as well as persons interviewed for articles and interviews on the site, may have a long or short position in securities mentioned. Directors, officers, employees or members of their immediate families are prohibited from making purchases and/or sales of those securities in the open market or otherwise from the time of the decision to publish an article until three business days after the publication of the article. The foregoing prohibition does not apply to articles that in substance only restate previously published company releases.
TORONTO, Nov. 18, 2021 /CNW/ – 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 Gold Standard Ventures Corp. (TSX: GSV) (“Gold Standard Ventures“), Black Cat Syndicate Limited (ASX: BC8) (“Black Cat“), Silver Mines Limited (ASX: SVL) (“Silver Mines“), Karora Resources Inc. (TSX: KRR) (“Karora“), ValOre Metals Corp. (TSXV: VO) (“ValOre“), and Quantum Graphite Limited (ASX: QGL) (“Quantum“).
Vox Royalty Corp. Logo (CNW Group/Vox Royalty Corp.)
Spencer Cole, Chief Investment Officer stated, “We are excited by yet another month of consistent progress across our royalty assets, particularly by the impending release of the South Railroad feasibility study in Nevada and pre-construction progress at Bulong in Western Australia. Our royalty projects continue to exceed Vox management expectations in terms of their pace of development, the volume of discovery drilling and higher likelihood of royalty revenue for Vox. Based on this strong operator progress, Vox management expects that 2022 has potential to be a record year for discovery drilling, engineering studies being released and projects moving into production.”
Key Development Updates
Update on feasibility study, permitting and construction financing at the South Railroad gold project in Nevada by Gold Standard Ventures;
First production guidance reiterated for H2 2022 at Bulong gold project by Black Cat; and
Substantial drilling updates at the Bowdens silver project by Silver Mines, the Higginsville mine by Karora, the Pedra Branca platinum group metals (“PGM“) project by ValOre, and the Uley graphite project by Quantum.
South Railroad (Pre-Feasibility) – Feasibility Study Expected Q1 2022
Vox holds a 0.633% net smelter royalty with advance minimum royalty payments over part of the South Railroad gold project, which is located in the prolific Carlin Trend of Nevada;
Vox received initial advance minimum royalty payments of ~C$100,000 from the South Railroad royalty in October 2021;
On November 10, 2021, Gold Standard Ventures announced:
Vox Management Summary: The South Railroad project is advancing in line with Vox management expectations based on due diligence completed for the royalty acquisition in June 2021. The majority of the additional ~350,000 ounces expected in Pinion Phases 4 and 5 are expected to be royalty-linked and to generate meaningful royalty revenue for Vox. 2022 promises to be a transformational year for South Railroad with the release of a feasibility study, construction financing process updates and permitting progress.
Bulong (Pre-Construction) – Production on Track for Second Half of 2022
Vox holds a 1% net smelter royalty over part of the Bulong gold project;
Vox Management Summary: Black Cat management continues to rapidly advance the Bulong project towards first production in 2022 alongside an aggressive +80,000m regional discovery drilling program. Management expects that Vox shareholders can look forward to a combination of development and discovery newsflow regarding this highly prospective gold project in Western Australia over the coming months.
Substantial Drilling Updates
Bowdens Silver: Vox holds a 0.85% gross revenue royalty on the Bowdens silver-lead-zinc project and a 1% gross revenue royalty over surrounding regional exploration Tenure.
Higginsville Gold (Dry Creek): Vox holds a price-linked production royalty(1) that is equal to A$0.60/gram of gold produced at current gold prices (effective 0.85% net smelter return royalty economics) on part of the Higginsville gold mine held by Karora, covering part of the Hidden Secret, Mousehollow and Paleochannels deposits.
Pedra Branca PGM: Vox holds a 1% net smelter royalty on the Pedra Branca PGM project.
Uley Graphite: Vox holds a 1.5% gross revenue royalty on the Uley graphite project.
Vox Management Summary: Vox is unique in the emerging royalty industry in having ~20 separate royalty projects with active exploration programs, many of which are the flagship asset of their listed operating company. 2022 is shaping up to be a record year of drilling across the Vox royalty asset portfolio, which increases the probability of further discoveries and medium to long term royalty cashflow for Vox.
Normal Course Issuer Bid Renewal
The Company’s normal course issuer bid (“NCIB“) is being renewed after the existing NCIB expires on November 18, 2021. The current NCIB provides Vox with the option to purchase up to 1,628,289 common shares as appropriate opportunities arise from time to time. Under the terms of the renewed NCIB, the Company may repurchase for cancellation up to 1,968,056 common shares, being 5% of the total number of 39,361,137 common shares outstanding as at November 11, 2021. The purchases are to be made at market prices through the facilities of the TSXV or other recognized Canadian marketplaces during the period November 19, 2021 to November 18, 2022.
The Company believes that, from time to time, the market price of its common shares does not reflect the Company’s underlying value and future prospects and that, at such times, the purchase of the Company’s common shares represents an appropriate use of its financial resources and will enhance shareholder value. Independent Trading Group (ITG), Inc. has been appointed by Vox as its broker to assist with purchases pursuant to the normal course issuer bid.
In the last twelve months, the Company has purchased 804,400 common shares pursuant to its NCIB at a weighted average price of C$2.89 per common share through the facilities of the TSXV and other recognized Canadian marketplaces.
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, requirements for regulatory approvals and the ability and intention of the Company to make a normal course issuer bid and to repurchase its common shares for cancellation.
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:
The Dry Creek royalty rate is A$0.12 per gram of gold per dry metric tonne of royalty ore, which is defined as mineralised material mined from the applicable tenements which contains an average grade greater than 1 gram of gold per dry metric tonne and not classified as waste or low grade, and the royalty is adjusted monthly as follows:
Significant Diamond Drilling Results, Iska Iska, as at November 17, 2021
Significant Diamond Drilling Results, Iska Iska, as at November 17, 2021
Table 2
Channel Sampling Results, Porco Adit. Note that the samples are continuous channel samples across the vein structures as shown in Figure 2 below. The “From” and “To” distances are the area of influence for each sample used in the weighted average grade calculation.
Channel Sampling Results, Porco Adit. Note that the samples are continuous channel samples across the vein structures as shown in Figure 2 below. The “From” and “To” distances are the area of influence for each sample used in the weighted average grade calculation.
Figure 1
Geology of the Iska Iska Caldera Complex showing locations of Major Breccia Pipe targets, the Santa Barbara Resource Definition Target Zone and diamond drill holes completed, in progress and planned. Drill holes for which assays are reported in this release and the location of the Porco adit are highlighted. Locations of Sections in Figure 3 (A-A’) and Figure 5 (B-B’) are also shown.
Geology of the Iska Iska Caldera Complex showing locations of Major Breccia Pipe targets, the Santa Barbara Resource Definition Target Zone and diamond drill holes completed, in progress and planned. Drill holes for which assays are reported in this release and the location of the Porco adit are highlighted. Locations of Sections in Figure 3 (A-A’) and Figure 5 (B-B’) are also shown.
Figure 2
Plan Map of Channel Sampling, Porco Adit.
Plan Map of Channel Sampling, Porco Adit.
Figure 3
Longitudinal Section Showing the Inverse Model of Magnetic Susceptibility. Susceptibility Highlights Major Targets and Geological Features. The location of this Section A-A’ is shown in Figure 1.
Longitudinal Section Showing the Inverse Model of Magnetic Susceptibility. Susceptibility Highlights Major Targets and Geological Features. The location of this Section A-A’ is shown in Figure 1.
Figure 4
3D Magnetic Inversion Model Showing Location of Drill Hole DPC-01. Note how Hole DPC-01 just clips the 3D inversion model shown where the drill hole trace is red.
3D Magnetic Inversion Model Showing Location of Drill Hole DPC-01. Note how Hole DPC-01 just clips the 3D inversion model shown where the drill hole trace is red.
Figure 5
Cross Section Looking North of Magnetic Inversion Model Showing Location of Drill Hole DPC-01. The Magnetic High to the Northwest of the Hole is a Priority Target for Drill Testing. The location of this section B-B’ is shown in Figure 1.
Cross Section Looking North of Magnetic Inversion Model Showing Location of Drill Hole DPC-01. The Magnetic High to the Northwest of the Hole is a Priority Target for Drill Testing. The location of this section B-B’ is shown in Figure 1.
Drill hole DPC-01 on the edge of a major magnetic susceptibility anomaly in the Porco Breccia Pipe area returned sixteen (16) separate zones of sulphide veins including 110.30 g Ag eq/t over 3.0m.
Magnetic inversion model outlines extensive target zone in the Porco-Central Breccia Pipe areas.
TORONTO, Nov. 17, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eloro Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: ELO; OTCQX: ELRRF; FSE: P2QM) (“Eloro”, or the “Company”) is pleased to provide an update on its Iska Iska silver-tin polymetallic project in the Potosi Department, southern Bolivia. To date, the Company has completed 35,738 metres (m) in 68 drill holes including three (3) in progress to test major target areas at Iska Iska. This press release reports drilling results from one (1) additional hole which tested the Porco Breccia Pipe (“PBP”) (Hole DPC-01) and new underground channel sampling from the Porco adit located approximately 200m south of the PBP. Currently three drill rigs are in operation at Iska Iska. Two surface drill rigs are continuing to drill at the Santa Barbara Resource Definition Target Zone (Figure 1) to outline an initial National Instrument 43-101 (“NI-43-101”) compliant resource. A third drill, an underground rig, situated in the west end of the Santa Barbara Adit, is testing the eastern part of Santa Barbara Breccia Pipe (“SBBP’) and its mineralized envelope. Figure 1 is a geological plan map showing locations of drill holes completed, in progress and planned to complete resource definition drilling along with an updated geological interpretation. Figure 2 is a plan map of channel sampling at the Porco adit. Table 1 provides significant drilling results with definitions of chemical symbols, Table 2 details channel sample results from the Porco adit and Table 3 lists holes completed with assays pending, as well as holes in progress in the three major target areas. Highlights include:
Porco Adit
Channel sampling in the Porco adit returned 521.33 g Ag eq/t (including 117.10 g Ag/t, 1.44 g Au/t, 0.54% Cu and 0.66% Sn) over a 103m strike length with an average channel width of 1.8m as shown in Figure 2 and Table 2. Mineralization in the Porco adit is hosted in a series of veins, veinlets, stockworks and disseminations in Ordovician quartz sandstone. The veins are parallel to and crosscutting the drift. In the western part of the drift veins are primarily sulphide-bearing whereas those in the eastern half are primarily oxide. Eloro believes mineralization at the Porco adit is sourced from a large underlying porphyry system as evidenced by recently acquired magnetic susceptibility data.
Porco Breccia Pipe
Hole DCP-01 drilled due west at -65 degrees from the Porco radial platform intersected sixteen (16) separate zones of quartz-tourmaline veins in granodioritic intrusive breccia with best results of 110.30 g Ag eq/t over 3.0m, 67.08 g Ag eq/t over 6.0m including 168.25 g Ag eq/t (25.0 g Ag/t, 1.31% Zn, 0.32% Pb and 0.25% Sn) over 1.54m, 131.16 g Ag eq/t (18 g Ag/t, 0.54% Cu and 0.31% Bi) and 80.66 g Ag eq/t over 3.0m (0.23% Sn).
Figure 3 is a longitudinal section (A-A’ in Figure 1) showing the inverse model of magnetic susceptibility which highlights major targets and geological features. Figure 4 is a 3D view of the inversion model showing that Hole DPC-01 just clipped the edge of a very strong and extensive magnetic susceptibility anomaly below and to the northwest of the PBP. The strongest part of the anomaly, as shown in Figure 5, a cross section along drill hole DPC-01 (B-B’ in Figure 1), is located just to the northwest of this hole in the very prospective gap area between the Central Breccia Pipe and the PBP (see Figure 1). Further drilling is planned to test this target once definition drilling at the Santa Barbara Resource Definition Target Zone is completed.
Definition Drilling Santa Barbara Target Area
Definition drilling is continuing in the Santa Barbara Resource Definition Target Zone as shown in Figure 1. Currently a series of SW-NE sections at approximately 100m intervals are being completed with holes drilled on each section at -40 degrees and –65 degrees to provide coverage over the full target strike length of 1,400m. Underground drilling is continuing in the Santa Barbara adit to evaluate the resource potential in the mineralized envelope east of the SBBP. It is anticipated that the definition drilling program will be completed by early December. Drilling will then refocus on exploration of the major magnetic targets in the Central-Porco target area as outlined above.
Dr. Bill Pearson, P.Geo., Eloro’s Executive Vice President Exploration, added: “The magnetic data have proven invaluable in outlining the overall extent of the massive porphyry-epithermal system at Iska Iska. The higher-grade mineralized zones at Iska Iska tend to be magnetic hence the areas with high magnetic response are very prospective targets. Our geophysical team is also currently processing the downhole IP data from the Santa Barbara Resource Definition Target Zone which should help to better define the overall extent of mineralization especially zones with higher sulphide content which are generally higher grade.”
Dr. Osvaldo Arce, P.Geo., General Manager of Eloro`s Bolivian subsidiary, Minera Tupiza S.R.L. (“Minera Tupiza”), said: “The mineralization in the Porco adit is interpreted to be the lower part of the high sulphidation epithermal system which is likely connected to a major tin porphyry at depth as suggested by the extensive magnetic susceptibility anomaly. The intersections in Hole DPC-01 which are most abundant where this hole clipped the magnetic susceptibility anomaly are tin-rich supporting this conclusion. Our work continues to expand the remarkable mineralized system at Iska Iska which has now been shown to be at a district-scale.”
Dr. Quinton Hennigh, P.Geo., Eloro’s Senior Technical Advisor, commented: “The return of impressive polymetallic grades from the Porco adit confirm that the Iska Iska mineral system extends a remarkable 2.5 km from north to south. Metal endowments display notable zonation along this corridor from Ag-Zn-Pb-rich in the north to Ag-Sn-rich in the middle to Ag-Sn-Cu-Au-rich in the south. This is likely a reflection of proximity to the underlying source porphyry believed to be situated along the southern margin of the caldera complex as evidenced by recently collected magnetic data. The southern part of the Iska Iska system shows great potential for further discovery. It will be exciting to see drilling resume in this area.”
Note: True width of the mineralization is not known at the present time, but based on the current understanding of the relationship between drill orientation/inclination and the mineralization within the breccia pipes and the host rocks such as sandstones and dacites. It is estimated that true width ranges between 70% and 90% of the down hole interval length but this will be confirmed by further drilling. Percentage metal contents are shown for each element.
Chemical symbols: Ag= silver, Au = gold, Zn = zinc, Pb = lead, Cu = copper, Sn = tin, Bi = bismuth, Cd = cadmium and g Ag eq/t = grams silver equivalent per tonne. Quantities are given in percent (%) for Zn, Pb Cu, Sn, Bi and Cd and in grams per tonne (g/t) for Ag, Au and Ag eq.
Metal prices and conversion factors used for calculation of g Ag eq/t (grams Ag per grams x metal ratio) are as follows:
Element
Price (per kg)
Ratio to Ag
Ag
$875.00
1.00000
Sn
$28.00
0.03200
Zn
$2.80
0.00320
Pb
$2.10
0.00240
Au
$57,400
65.6000
Cu
$8.80
0.01006
Bi
$12.76
0.01458
In
$305.00
0.34857
Cd
$5.50
0.00629
In calculating the intersections reported in this press release a sample cutoff of 30 g Ag eq/t was used with generally a maximum dilution of 3 continuous samples below cutoff included within a mineralized section unless more dilution is justified geologically.
The equivalent grade calculations are based on the stated metal prices and are provided for comparative purposes only, due to the polymetallic nature of the deposit. Preliminary metallurgical tests are in progress to establish levels of recovery for each element reported but currently the potential recovery for each element has not yet been established. While there is no assurance that all or any of the reported concentrations of metals will be recoverable, Bolivia has a long history of successfully mining and processing similar polymetallic deposits which is well documented in the landmark volume “Yacimientos Metaliferos de Bolivia” by Dr. Osvaldo R. Arce Burgoa, P.Geo.
Table 2: Channel Sampling Results, Porco Adit. Note that the samples are continuous channel samples across the vein structures as shown in Figure 2 below. The “From” and “To” distances are the area of influence for each sample used in the weighted average grade calculation: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ffa132a4-09de-4092-979e-00adafdc0f7c
Table 3: Summary of Diamond Drill Holes Completed with Assays Pending and Drill Holes in Progress at Iska Iska from November 17, 2021 press release.
Hole No.
Type
Collar Easting
Collar Northing
Elev
Azimuth
Angle
Hole Length m
Surface Drilling Northwest Extension Santa Barbara
DSB-12
S
205072.7
7656867.5
4165.0
225
-40
806.2
DSB-13
S
205072.7
7656867.5
4165.0
225
-60
696.5
DSB-14
S
205283.0
7656587.2
4175.0
225
-65
968.5
DSB-15
S
204973.1
7657053.8
4165.0
225
-40
731.2
DSB-16
S
204973.1
7657053.8
4165.0
225
-65
862.0
DSB-17
S
7656765.4
205131.3
4173.0
225
-40
841.0
DSB-18
S
7656676.3
205207.1
4175.0
225
-40
890.4
DSB-19
S
7656676.3
205207.1
4175.0
225
-65
803.3
DSB-20
S
7656765.4
205131.3
4173.0
225
-65
896.5
Subtotal
7,495.6
DSB-21
S
7657138.0
204870.0
4135.0
225°
-40
In progress
DSB-22
S
7657208.4
204799.4
4145.0
225°
-40
In progress
Underground Drilling Santa Barbara Adit
DSBU-1
UG
205285.2
7656074.8
4165.0
90
-10
260.5
DSBU-2
UG
205285.2
7656074.8
4165.0
270
-20
563.6
DSBU-3
UG
205285.2
7656074.8
4165.0
270
-20
443.5
DSBU-4
UG
205285.2
7656074.8
4165.0
180
-20
570.0
Subtotal
1,837.6
DSBU-5
UG
7656074.8
205285.2
4165.0
0°
-40
In Progress
Central Breccia Pipe – Surface Radial Drill Program – North Setup
DCN-06
S
204902.0
7655860.0
4420.0
180
-80
626.4
DCN-07
S
204902.0
7655860.0
4420.0
270
-60
680.4
Subtotal
1,306.8
Central Breccia Pipe – Surface Radial Drill Program – South Setup
DCS-04
S
204852.1
7655612.3
4429.7
180
-60
644.4
Subtotal
644.4
Porco Central – Surface Radial Drill Program
DPC-02
S
205457.2
7655110.9
4175.0
225
-60
908.2
DPC-03
S
205457.2
7655110.9
4175.0
135
-60
524.5
DPC-04
S
205457.2
7655110.9
4175.0
0
-60
371.4
DPC-05
S
205457.2
7655110.9
4175.0
90
-60
407.5
DPC-06
S
205457.2
7655110.9
4175.0
243
-60
716.4
Subtotal
2,928.0
TOTAL
14,212.4
S = Surface UG=Underground; collar coordinates in metres; azimuth and dip in degrees. Total drilling completed since the start of the program on September 13, 2020, is 35,738 m in 68 holes including 3 holes in progress (23 underground holes and 45 surface holes).
Figure 1: Geology of the Iska Iska Caldera Complex showing locations of Major Breccia Pipe targets, the Santa Barbara Resource Definition Target Zone and diamond drill holes completed, in progress and planned. Drill holes for which assays are reported in this release and the location of the Porco adit are highlighted. Locations of Sections in Figure 3 (A-A’) and Figure 5 (B-B’) are also shown: https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/153d2784-8eef-45ad-abca-d05860e6cb2a
Dr. Osvaldo Arce, P. Geo., General Manager of Minera Tupiza, and a Qualified Person in the context of NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release. Dr. Bill Pearson, P.Geo., Executive Vice President Exploration Eloro, and who has more than 45 years of worldwide mining exploration experience including extensive work in South America, manages the overall technical program working closely with Dr. Arce. Dr. Quinton Hennigh, P.Geo., Senior Technical Advisor to Eloro and Independent Technical Advisor, Mr. Charley Murahwi P. Geo., FAusIMM of Micon International Limited are regularly consulted on technical aspects of the project.
Drill samples are prepared in ALS Bolivia Ltda’s preparation facility in Oruro, Bolivia with pulps sent to the main ALS Global laboratory in Lima for analysis. As announced in the February 26, 2021 press release, Eloro has changed the assay protocol to utilize X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to more accurately analyze higher tin. Tin in the CBP is suspected to occur as cassiterite which is insoluble in acid digestion, and therefore not suited for wet chemical techniques. In addition, other assay protocols have been changed to provide for a more accurate measurement of the wide-ranging suite of polymetallic metals at Iska Iska. Eloro employs an industry standard QA/QC program with standards, blanks and duplicates inserted into each batch of samples analyzed with selected check samples sent to a separate accredited laboratory.
Recently, AHK Laboratories, who manage a global network of laboratories have setup operations in Bolivia with the establishment of a preparation laboratory in Oruro. AHK has a strong base of accredited laboratories in South America including Peru, Chile, Brazil and Argentina. Eloro has contracted AHK to provide additional analytical services in order to help reduce the sample backlog. A series of check samples are currently being analyzed by AHK as a QA/QC check. AHK is following the same analytical protocols used as with ALS and with the same QA/QC protocols. The use of both accredited laboratories is reducing the backlog of samples to be analysed and improving turnaround.
The magnetic survey was carried out by MES Geophysics using a GEM Systems GSM-19W Overhauser magnetometer. Dr. Chris Hale, P.Geo. and Mr. John Gilliatt, P.Geo. of Intelligent Exploration provided the survey design, preparation of the maps and interpretation from data processed and quality reviewed by Rob McKeown, P. Geo. of MES Geophysics. Messrs. Hale, Gilliatt and McKeown are Qualified Persons as defined under NI 43-101. The 3D magnetic inversion model was prepared by Mr. Joe Mihelcic, P.Eng., P.Geo. of Clearview Geophysics in consultation with Messrs. Hale and Gilliatt. Mr. Mihelcic is a QP under NI 43-101.
About Iska Iska
Iska Iska silver-tin polymetallic project is a road accessible, royalty-free property, wholly controlled by the Title Holder, Empresa Minera Villegas S.R.L. and is located 48 km north of Tupiza city, in the Sud Chichas Province of the Department of Potosi in southern Bolivia. Eloro has an option to earn a 99% interest in Iska Iska.
Iska Iska is a major silver-tin polymetallic porphyry-epithermal complex associated with a Miocene possibly collapsed/resurgent caldera, emplaced on Ordovician age rocks with major breccia pipes, dacitic domes and hydrothermal breccias. The caldera is 1.6km by 1.8km in dimension with a vertical extent of at least 1km. Mineralization age is similar to Cerro Rico de Potosí and other major deposits such as San Vicente, Chorolque, Tasna and Tatasi located in the same geological trend.
Eloro began underground diamond drilling from the Huayra Kasa underground workings at Iska Iska on September 13, 2020. On November 18, 2020, Eloro announced the discovery of a significant breccia pipe with extensive silver polymetallic mineralization just east of the Huayra Kasa underground workings and a high-grade gold-bismuth zone in the underground workings. On November 24, 2020, Eloro announced the discovery of the SBBP approximately 150m southwest of the Huayra Kasa underground workings.
Subsequently, on January 26, 2021, Eloro announced significant results from the first drilling at the SBBP including the discovery hole DHK-15 which returned 129.60 g Ag eq/t over 257.5m (29.53g Ag/t, 0.078g Au/t, 1.45%Zn, 0.59%Pb, 0.080%Cu, 0.056%Sn, 0.0022%In and 0.0064% Bi from 0.0m to 257.5m. Subsequent drilling has confirmed significant values of Ag-Sn polymetallic mineralization in the SBBP and the adjacent CBP. A substantive mineralized envelope which is open along strike and down-dip extends around both major breccia pipes. Continuous channel sampling of the Santa Barbara Adit located to the east of SBBP returned 442 g Ag eq/t (164.96 g Ag/t, 0.46%Sn, 3.46% Pb and 0.14% Cu) over 166m including 1,092 g Ag eq/t (446 g Ag/t, 9.03% Pb and 1.16% Sn) over 56.19m. The west end of the adit intersects the end of the SBBP.
Since the discovery hole on the SBBP, Eloro has released a number of significant drill results on this target, including:
122.66 grams g Ag eq/t (35.05 g Ag/t, 0.72% Zn, 0.61% Pb, 0.11% Sn and 0.06 g Au/t) over 123.61m including 205.74 g Ag eq/t (92.30 g Ag/t, 0.57% Zn, 0.85% Pb, 0.18% Sn and 0.07 g Au/t) over 32.32m (DSB-07),
105.41 g Ag eq/t (8.55 g Ag/t, 1.01% Zn, 0.48% Pb, 0.06% Sn and 0.38 g Au/t) over 173.58m including 199.77 g Ag eq/t (21.90 g Ag/t, 1.18% Zn, 0.93% Pb 0.12% Sn and 0.94 g Au/t) over 39.08m (DSB-07)
69.89 g Ag eq/t over 252.89m from 355.12 to 608.02m including several higher-grade sections of 196.60 g Ag eq/t including 131.13 g Ag/t over 14.52m, 134.62 g Ag eq/t including 93.25 g Ag/t over 21.08m and 145.35 g Ag eq/t including 2.38% Zn over 10.11m (DSB-08).
114.96 Ag eq/t including 0.325% Sn over 56.2m including a higher-grade section of 187.98 g Ag eq/t including 0.535% Sn over 28.86m; 80.71 g Ag eq/t including 0.213% Sn over 74.39m and 118.69 g Ag eq/t over 10.77m (DSB-10).
129.65 g Ag eq/t (18.38 g Ag/t, 2.14% Zn, 0.67%Pb, and 0.047% Sn) over 300.75m from 65.14m to 365.91m, including higher grade intervals of 215.54 g Ag eq/t over 72.76m, 163.35 g Ag eq/t over 31.83m and 224.48 g Ag eq/t over 19.39m. 82% of this 446.5m long hole contained reportable intervals (DHK-18).
234.19 g Ag eq/t (70.58 g Ag/t, 2.31% Zn, 2.74% Pb and 0.042% Sn) over 53.2m including a higher-grade portion of 931.73 g Ag eq/t (367.29 g Ag/t, 5.64% Zn, 13.67% Pb and 0.10% Sn) over 9.26m (DHK-20).
108.24 g Ag eq/t (3.14g Ag/t, 0.24 g Au/t, 2.03% Zn and 0.58% Pb) over 48.2m including a higher-grade interval grading 180.76 g Ag eq/t (4.46 g Ag/t, 0.35 g Au/t, 3.57% Zn and 1.05% Pb) over 15.02m (DHK-19). 160.22 g Ag eq/t (36.53 g Ag/t, 1.63% Zn, 1.20% Pb and 0.10% Sn) over 194.14m (DHK-21) including higher grade portions of:
250.50 g Ag eq/t (51.31 g Ag/t, 3.35% Zn, 1.78% Pb and 0.10% Sn) over 18.24m.
257.40 g Ag eq/t (75.83 g Ag/t, 2.29% Zn, 2.40% Pb and 0.12% Sn) over 16.33m.
350.91 g Ag eq/t (112.57 g Ag/t, 1.41% Zn, 3.08% Pb and 0.33% Sn) over 30.06m.
64% of this 512.9m long hole contains reportable intersections
94.68 g Ag eq/t (3.87 g Ag/t, 0.067 g Au/t, 1.63% Zn, 0.43% Pb and 0.05% Sn) over 169.93m including a higher-grade zone that graded 158.64 g Ag eq/t (9.35g Ag/t, 0.016 g Au/t, 3.43% Zn, 0.71% Pb and 0.03%Sn) over 29.84m (DHK-22).
100g Ag eq/t (including 38.71 g Ag/t, 0.88%Zn and 0.51%Pb) over 188.5 m from 58.67m to 247.13m including a higher-grade portion of 154 g Ag eq/t (including 75.51 g Ag/t, 0.96% Zn, 0.65% Pb and 0.16%Cu) over 65.8m (DHK-23)
On May 4, 2021, Eloro released results from the first drill hole on the CBP. Hole DCN-01 intersected multiple mineralized intercepts including 196.09 g Ag eq/t (150.25 g Ag/t, 0.10% Sn and 0.05 g Au/t) over 56.2m and containing 342.98 g Ag eq/t (274.0 g Ag/t, 0.16% Sn and 0.16 g Au/t) over 27.53m.
Hole DCN-04 drilled at -80 degrees to the north from the northern radial platform of the CBP, intersected seventeen (17) mineralized intersections, principally Sn-Ag-bearing, over its 851.4m length. Best results include: 71.54 g Ag eq/t (32.58 g Ag/t and 0.10% Sn) over 97.10m from 134.40 to 231.5m; 101.52 g Ag eq/t (28.74 g Ag/t and 0.19% Sn) over 62.01m; 70.42 g Ag eq/t (28.74 g Ag/t and 0.16% Sn) over 22.59m; and 236.96 g Ag eq/t (92.21 g Ag/t and 0.25% Sn) over 17.45m. Hole DCS-02 was drilled southeast at -60 degrees from the south radial platform of the CBP. This hole, which was drilled to 800.5m, intersected nine (9) reportable Ag-Zn-Pb-Sn mineralized intervals. Best results include 79.53 g Ag eq/t (including 0.21% Sn) over 19.42m, 101.01 g Ag eq/t (32.76 g Ag/t, 0.76% Zn, 0.75% Pb) over 10.47 and 130.95g Ag eq/t (34.14 g Ag/t, 0.10 g Au/t, 1.35% Zn and 0.56 % Pb over 7.40m.
A detailed ground magnetic survey of the Iska Iska property, reported on June 6, 2021, confirmed the extent of the Iska Iska Caldera as determined from geological mapping and satellite interpretation, including Aster data. The SBBP and CBP, both of which have been confirmed by drill-testing, are marked by prominent low anomalies reflecting strong alteration. The magnetic data suggests that the Central and Porco Breccia Pipes likely merge at depth. In addition, there is a prominent area of low intensity magnetics northwest of the SBBP which was reported on in this press release.
Geological mapping and satellite interpretation identified a third major breccia pipe target, Porco (South), that is approximately 600m in diameter (South) located southeast of the CBP in the southern part of the Iska Iska caldera complex. The Porco (South) Breccia Pipe target has a similar magnetic signature to the Santa Barbara and Central Breccia Pipes, further confirming the likelihood of it being a major breccia pipe. Six (6) drill holes have been completed on Porco; assay results are pending. Previous channel sampling in the Porco adit located adjacent the target area 200m to the southeast returned 50m grading 519.35 g Ag eq/t including 236.13 g Ag/t, 1.89 g Au/t, 0.87% Cu, 0.22% Bi and >0.05% Sn over an average sample width of 2.49m.
Currently three diamond drill rigs are active at Iska Iska, two surface rigs and one underground drill. Planned drilling for 2021 is 51,000m with the aim of outlining an initial inferred NI 43-101 compliant mineral resource by Q1 2022. The target zone at the SBBP and the surrounding mineralized envelope is 1400m along strike, 500m wide and extends to a depth of 600m. This zone is open along strike to the northwest and southeast. A downhole induced polarization/resistivity (IP/Res) survey is in progress to further define drill targets and aid resource definition drilling. Preliminary metallurgical tests are also in progress. An updated NI 43-101 Technical Report is being prepared by independent consultant Micon International Ltd.
About Eloro Resources Ltd.
Eloro is an exploration and mine development company with a portfolio of gold and base-metal properties in Bolivia, Peru and Quebec. Eloro has an option to acquire a 99% interest in the highly prospective Iska Iska Property, which can be classified as a polymetallic epithermal-porphyry complex, a significant mineral deposit type in the Potosi Department, in southern Bolivia. Eloro commissioned a NI 43-101 Technical Report on Iska Iska, which was completed by Micon International Limited and is available on Eloro’s website and under its filings on SEDAR. Iska Iska is a road-accessible, royalty-free property. Eloro also owns an 82% interest in the La Victoria Gold/Silver Project, located in the North-Central Mineral Belt of Peru some 50 km south of Barrick’s Lagunas Norte Gold Mine and Pan American Silver’s La Arena Gold Mine. La Victoria consists of eight mining concessions and eight mining claims encompassing approximately 89 square kilometres. La Victoria has good infrastructure with access to road, water and electricity and is located at an altitude that ranges from 3,150 m to 4,400 m above sea level.
For further information please contact either Thomas G. Larsen, Chairman and CEO or Jorge Estepa, Vice-President at (416) 868-9168.
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