Gold retreated from a new all-time high set on Wednesday as some investors booked profits while assessing geopolitical risks from the US election and Middle East conflicts.
Spot gold dropped 1.0% to $2,718.79 an ounce by 12:10 p.m. ET after briefly hitting an all-time high of $2,758.25 in the morning trading. US gold futures also fell 1.0% to $2,734.00 an ounce in New York.
Bullion was down as much as 1.5% earlier in the session, with some traders exiting positions amid signs that the precious metal’s recent rally to successive highs may be excessive.
Gold’s relative strength index has been above the overbought level of 70 for the past three sessions, according to Bloomberg data.
A stronger US dollar and rising bond yields also weighed on the metal, whose price has surged by more than 30% in anticipation of the Federal Reserve’s pivot to interest rate cuts. The rally also intensified as uncertainties surrounding the US presidential race and the Middle East conflict grew.
Standard Chartered analyst Suki Cooper expects further upside risk in the coming weeks. The bank sees gold averaging $2,800 an ounce in the fourth quarter, with prices set to average $2,900 for the first three months of next year.
Those from Citi Research gave a similar outlook. The bank recently upgraded its three-month gold price view to $2,800 per ounce from $2,700 previously, adding that its 6- to 12-month forecast is $3,000.
If we start with VMS Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide Ore Deposits and their Mineralization we see from this image shows some of the sulphide chimneys associated with the model black smoker VMS deposit. VMS will emit black plume of hot water venting from one of the chimneys. You’ll remember this cross section from reads on both porphyry deposits and epithermal, in the case of VMS deposit, we are basically looking at a submarine high sulfidation epithermal deposit venting from an underlying hot chamber into the sea.
VMS deposits are dominated by copper and zinc, but there are a number of other minor minerals, including: lead, silver, gold, cobalt, tin, selenium, magnesium, cadmium and a whole host of other ones that are associated with them.
The deposits consist of a massive sulphide cap that formed on the seafloor and sort of lies parallel between two stratigraphy and an underlying feeder zone or streamer zone as it is usually called. VMS is basically mushroom shaped, Streamer zone tends to be copper rather than zinc rich. VMS deposits often form as clusters over a large intrusive heat source. If the heat chamber is long-lived you may get flat lenses of massive sulphide, each fed from the same fault, beginning successively younger as you go up through the stratigraphy. The deposits are pretty common although, as with any deposit type. There are only a few big enough or high enough grade to be economic. In spite of that, they really are economically significant with 27% of Canada’s copper production and almost 50% of its historical zinc production, and 20% of the Pb having come from this group of deposits.
VMS deposits have been forming throughout geological history and they still are forming on the seafloor today. Here’s a bunch of the better-known deposits you may have heard of. As you can see they are scattered all around the world, but I’m going to talk a little bit about the distribution later on. This is a cartoon 3D viewer of an active VMS black smoker developing on the oceanic crust on the seafloor (good rock crusher). Some of the metals are contributed by the underlying magma chamber, but as the hydrothermal fluids rise above the hot magma it sucks in cool sea water, this is then heated and mixing with the magnetic water, rises to the vent returning to the sea forming large circulation cells that maybe several kilometres across. It is the seawater circulation through the host volcanic that provides the remainder of the metal inputs. Leaching metals particularly iron there’s also bases metals and sulphur on the volcanic. Metal concentration in the hydrothermal fluids, volcanic and recycled seawater, are really low- just fractions of a percent. So how do we end up with the ore that makes up 20- 30% metal? The next slide will be on the seafloor to explain this. You can see there is a neck of fractured rock below the seafloor caused by the violent boiling of the hot fluids as the pressure is reduced, that in turn is surmounted by a series of chimneys that allow the fluid escape into the cold sea, at the bottom of the thermocline is really very cold, it’s often only a few degrees above freezing even in the tropical areas. Surrounding the chimney is an exhalative length of sulphuric material that forms on the floor. The secret of the high grade of the ore lies in rapid cooling of the hydrothermal fluid when it reaches the full seafloor.
As in porphyry deposits, the main focus of trend in deposits is the drop in temperature rather than changes in EH or pH. Different metal sulphides tend to drop out a metal solution at different temperatures- copper and gold first, followed by zinc, then lead and finally iron. There’s an overlap in the metal deposition, but that’s the broad trend. Copper starts to drop out as the temperature starts to drop from 400 degrees Celsius down to 300 degrees. The Iron and the copper drops out before the fluids actually reach the seafloor. Precipitating is a stockwork of veins in the brecciated funnel also called stringer zone, beneath the sulphide lens.
The fluids are hot, and because they are from a high sulfidation source, they’re moderately acid. This acidity alters the feldspars and host rocks to clays, some of which are washed out the rock and others metamorphous form sericite mica. Dissolved silica in the hot solutions distributes deposits such as quartz along with iron sulphide. You may hear geologist referring to this characteristic leach quartz, sericite pyrite assemblage the results are either QSP or folic alteration.
As the hydrothermal fluids reach the cold seawater, the temperature drops within seconds from 300 degrees down to 100 degrees and less. The lead and the zinc sulphite precipitates along with along with the remainder of copper. The sulfides dissolve along the sides and at the top of the vents, extending them and then bellow out to form black and white smoke as you see in National Geographic pictures. The fine clouds of sulphide cool and settles on the seafloor, building up a finely banded layers of pure sulphate which are closest to the vent, galena and sphalerite next. Pyrite deposits throughout the sequence and most desolate from the bed that is the only sphalerite still available to deposit. Beyond that the sulphur is exhausted and iron-oxide or hematite and silica is all that’s left to precipitate.
The massive sulphide is made up of a combination of finely interbedded sulphides that settle out of the black smokers and fragments of chimneys that have broken off and rolled down the slope. Here are couple of shots of massive sulphides in outcrop, note the typical, fine rhythmic banding just below the hammer on the left hand photo. The photo in the bottom right shows abandoned iron formation, developed very distantly to a VMS vent, as you can see it is made of hematite or magnetite which is oxide, rather than sulphide and white silica.
The fluids that form VMS deposits usually reach the seafloor of faults, because those faults represent zones of weakness when the stratigraphy is subsequently subject to deformation, the area around the faults is often particularly deformed. Combine this with the highly ductile nature of massive sulphides, we find that massive sulphide lenses themselves often exhibits extreme deformation. Very often the stringy cap which started off with a very high angle to the massive sulphide mushroom cap, is flattened and rotated to a much more acute angle and the massive sulphide may end up squeezed into a cigar shaped broad.
So not we know a little more about how VMS deposits are formed, let’s consider; where they occur; how common they are; and more importantly how big they are and what metal grades can we expect.
VMS deposits have been forming since the earliest of times in the Earth’s history and they are still forming today on the seafloor. As you might expect, they are found all over the world and in all ages of rocks. However, there are few areas in history where they seem to be particularly prevalent- the late Archean and the Tertiary, seem to be very prolific times. The blue, green and red symbols mark some of the more important VMS deposits worldwide.
Ok, what about size and grade? There are a number of different classes of VMS, each with somewhat very different characteristics.
It’s nice to say that economic VMS deposits generally range in size from 4- 25 million tonnes with an average of about 5 million tonnes, although there are a few monsters such as Peak Creek in Ontario which is 150 million tonnes.
Average Volcanogenic Massive Sulphide Ore Deposits Grades:
5% copper
4% zinc
< 1% lead
Maybe 1 gram per tonne of gold.
Again there are a few outlines with far higher grades than these.
Let’s look now at a few examples of VMS deposits.Nevsun’s Bisha deposit near Eritrea is a superb example of a VMS deposit. It was discovered in January in 2003, construction began in 2008 and production in 2011. This is a view of the Bisha deposit looking south, before development began. The dark brown material in the foreground is a zinc rich deposit the without the outcrop of the mineralization. Not surprisingly, the way the mineralization is being folded and it plunges to the south, where the stringer zone smeared out, parallel to the massive sulphides. The massive sulphide material varies from 1- 70 meters thick, this is unusual as most VMS deposits are less than 20 meters in thickness. Bisha is a footprint that’s about 1 kilometre long and 200 meters wide. In spite of the steep dip to the mineralization which results in a pit with a high stripping ratio the deposit has one big advantage. So there is a leach gold zone on the surface, underlain by a secondary enrich copper zone with the primary zinc dominated, primary zone below that.
The advantage of this is the expense is concentrated and does not have to be booked by start-up and could be constructed just a few years later when the primary sulphides are reached and funded, most importantly from cash flow, rather than debt. Most attractive of all in Bisha, is the size:
With reserves of 26 million tonnes
at 1.8% copper
6.3% zinc
0.9 grams per tonne gold
and 41 grams per tonne silver.
This is 5 times the average VMS site. VMS deposits occur in clusters/groups and Bisha is no exception. With at least 7 other VMS deposits discovered within 20 kilometres. Although Bisha is the only one in production so far.
The second example we are going to talk about today is kind of unusual, it’s actually a group of deposits that only recently been formed, in fact they are so young they are still on the ocean floor and will have to be mined remotely from floating platforms. They were discovered by Nautilus Mining Company using a combination of both metrics and EM geophysics. To date it gives and fascinating insight to the nature of the black smoker fields.This image is taken from Nautilus’ 43 101 report and it shows an amazing isometric view of the chimney of Salwara 1 target off the coast of Papua New Guinea derived from the symmetry.The image covers about 800 meters from left to right and the individual chimneys are clearly visible. The small image shows remote operating vehicles claws, removing a sample of a smoker chimney for for assay. For environmental reasons only extinct smokers were targeted. Once the hot water stop flowing, the cold and lack of nutrients causes the once abundant sea life to move away or to die. Extinct smokers are therefore devoid of significant sea life, and environmentally not an issue. In the cross section of the Solwara 1 VMS based on mapping and drilling of deposits we can see the massive sulphides in red, the alterations associated with stringer zones in pale green. Although the resource is relatively small, just two and a half million tonnes, the grades are exceptionally high- with a copper grade of almost 8% and a gold grade of over 6 grams per tonne, as is typical there has been at least 18 other deposits discovered in this particular cluster.The Solwara 1 VMS is at a depth, 1600 meters below sea level. Submarine VMS deposits have never been mined before but the equipment that Nautilus plants use has a proven record, excavating trenches for submarine cables and mining marine diamonds off the South African coast. Its practicality is well established. This is another piece of mining equipment that Nautilus is considering having custom built, you will notice the proposed completion date in this old material, to my knowledge this construction is still on hold which gives the indication that funding and mining will not be straight forward. Once the material is remotely mined, its plan to pump it to the surface as a slurry then to transfer debarked or to transport to lower a sure base concentrator.
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – October 23, 2024) – EMX Royalty Corporation (NYSE American: EMX) (TSXV: EMX) (FSE: 6E9) (the “Company” or “EMX”) is pleased to announce that its royalty partner at Timok in Serbia, Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd. (“Zijin”), released unaudited interim results that show markedly increased levels of copper and gold production at Timok in the first half of 2024. Zijin reported 90,008 tonnes of copper and 2,894 kilograms of gold produced from Timok’s Cukaru Peki Mine in H1, 2024 (see Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd. Interim Report 2024). This aligns with the record Q2 royalty revenues of $1,586,000 reported by EMX in its Q2 MD&A filings. On page seven of its 2024 Interim Report, Zijin also states that the combined Serbia Zijin Copper (which includes Zijin’s Bor operations, which are not covered by EMX’s royalties) and Serbia Zijin Mining projects (which includes the Timok/Cukaru Peki Mine which is covered by an EMX royalty), now have a capacity to produce 450,000 tonnes of copper on an annual basis. This is a significant increase compared with previous years.
Zijin has previously announced that the throughput of its processing plant at Cukaru Peki is being expanded from 12,000 tonnes per day to 15,000 tonnes per day1. The expansion of capacity and production at Cukaru Peki is part of an ongoing effort by Zijin to de-bottleneck their operations in Serbia, and by doing so, will unlock additional potential in the greater district. In addition to the ongoing production from the Upper Zone at Cukaru Peki, Zijin is also working to develop the underlying Lower Zone porphyry copper-gold deposit. The Lower Zone at Cukaru Peki will be developed through block caving, and EMX believes that the Cukaru Peki Mine will become one of the more important block cave development projects in the world.
On page 6 of the interim report, Zijin also highlights high grade copper gold exploration potential at its “MG Zone” in the “southern part of the Cukaru Peki Copper and Gold Mine”. We do not yet know whether Zijin’s exploration efforts will be successful and become material to EMX. However, it is notable that a discussion of the newly described MG Zone appeared in the interim report.
EMX congratulates Zijin on its outstanding performance in the Bor and Timok districts in Serbia. EMX currently holds a 0.3625% NSR royalty over Zijin’s Brestovac exploration permit area (including the Cukaru Peki Mining licenses), as well as portions of Zijin’s Jasikovo-Durlan Potak exploration license north of the currently active Bor Mine. EMX also owns a 2% NSR royalty on precious metals and a 1% NSR royalty on base metals on the Brestovac West License, which lies immediately adjacent and to the west of the Brestovac Mining License and the Cukaru Peki Mine (see Figure 1). All of EMX’s Timok royalties are uncapped and cannot be repurchased or reduced. The Company is currently receiving quarterly royalty payments from Zijin for copper and gold production from the Cukaru Peki Mine.
Dr. Eric P. Jensen, CPG, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and 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 and base 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”. Please see www.EMXroyalty.com for more information.
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
Forward-Looking Statements 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” 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 June 30, 2024 (the “MD&A”), and the most recently filed Annual Information Form (“AIF”) for the year ended December 31, 2023, 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.sedarplus.ca and on the SEC’s EDGAR website at www.sec.gov.
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – October 22, 2024) – EMX Royalty Corporation (NYSE American: EMX) (TSXV: EMX) (FSE: 6E9) (the “Company” or “EMX”) is pleased to announce the execution of an exploration and option agreement dated October 16, 2024 for its Gumsberg Project in Sweden to Alpha Future Funds S.C.S, a private Luxembourg based company (“Alpha”). The agreement provides EMX with a cash payment and work commitments during a one-year option period, and upon exercise of the option, EMX will receive additional deferred option payments, advance royalty payments, milestone payments and a 2% NSR royalty.
The Gumsberg project is located within the prolific Bergslagen Mining Region of southern Sweden. The region has seen more than a millennium of continuous mining of iron, copper, silver, and recently polymetallic ores. Alpha is a well-capitalized investment fund with its own technical team that will work closely with EMX to advance the project through the option period. EMX and Alpha seek to contribute to the legacy of the Bergslagen Mining Region, one of Europe’s most important metal producing centers, through additional investment and exploration in the district.
Commercial Terms Overview. EMX will receive US$100,000 upon closing of the agreement, and Alpha can acquire a 100% interest in the project by satisfying specified work commitments by the end of the first anniversary of the agreement. Upon exercising the option Alpha will:
Make additional cash payments totaling US$850,000 to EMX as deferred option payments.
Spend a cumulative of US$5,000,000 on the project by the fifth anniversary of the agreement.
Pay annual advance royalty payments commencing after the deferred option payments are complete.
Grant EMX an uncapped 2% NSR royalty on the project.
Deliver certain milestone payments tied to anniversary dates and the commencement of commercial production.
Overviews of the project. The Gumsberg polymetallic project in Sweden is located in the Bergslagen Region in central Sweden, which is the birthplace of the mining industry of Sweden with hundreds of past producing properties and two world-renowned polymetallic mines currently in operation – Boliden AB’s Garpenberg Mine and Lundin Mining’s Zinkgruvan Mine (see Figure 1).
Gumsberg Project, Central Sweden: The Gumsberg project encompasses multiple past-producing mining areas, some of which operated throughout the Medieval period (see Figure 2). The Östersilvberg silver mine operated as early as the 13th century with peak silver production taking place between 1300 and 1590 and was Sweden’s largest silver producer prior to the discovery of the nearby silver deposits at Sala. Recent drilling at Östersilvberg (2016-2019) led to the discovery of a newly recognized lens of silver-rich polymetallic mineralization south of the historic mine workings, which remains open in multiple directions. Importantly, reinterpretation of the styles of volcanogenic massive sulfide (“VMS”) mineralization at Östersilvberg have demonstrated that VMS mineralization occurred at multiple stratigraphic levels and include high-grade zones of tectonically remobilized silver-lead-zinc mineralization as well as copper and gold enriched “feeder” type structures. These new interpretations will provide vectors toward new targets at Östersilvberg.
Also present at Gumsberg are bedded “exhalative” type zinc-lead-silver deposits at Fredikssongruvan and Vallberget-Loberget that were intersected in 2017-2020 drill programs. The bedded zinc-lead-silver mineralization at the historic Fredikssongruvan mine shows clear evidence for “Broken Hill” style mineralization and is contained within a thick sequence of manganiferous chemical sediment that has not been explored along strike. Exhalative-style polymetallic mineralization is also developed along a multi-kilometer trend around the historic Vallberget and Loberget mines, which has been cut by high-grade “veins” of tectonically remobilized mineralization. Both styles of mineralization were mined historically at Vallberget and Loberget.
EMX and Alpha are looking forward to commencing work on the project and following up on the recent drill successes.
This transaction is another example of the execution of EMX’s business model in providing turn-key and drill ready exploration projects to its partner companies in exchange for royalty interests.
Nearby Mines and Deposits. The mines and deposits discussed in this news release provide context for EMX’s projects, which occur in similar geologic settings, but this is not necessarily indicative that the Company’s projects host similar tonnages or grades of mineralization.
Dr. Eric P. Jensen, CPG, a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and 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 and base 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”. Please see www.EMXroyalty.com for more information.
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
Forward-Looking Statements 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” 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 June 30, 2024 (the “MD&A”), and the most recently filed Annual Information Form (“AIF”) for the year ended December 31, 2023, 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.sedarplus.ca and on the SEC’s EDGAR website at www.sec.gov.
TORONTO – (NewMediaWire) – October 17, 2024 – Silver Crown Royalties Inc. (“Silver Crown”, “SCRi”, the “Corporation”, or the “Company”) (Cboe: SCRI; OTCQX: SLCRF; FRA: QS0) is excited to announce the appointment of Salman Partners as a Strategic Advisor to the Company.
CEO of Salman Partners, industry icon Terry Salman raised over $20 billion for over 400 exploration and mining companies. His 35+ year portfolio of experience includes executive roles at Nesbitt Thomson (acquired by BMO) where he was instrumental in forming the mining team and its mining conference in the 1990s.
Adding to his mining legacy is his dynamic public service presence, recently appointed to the Order of Canada for his contributions to mining exploration and for his generous philanthropy and community activism. He served with the United States Marine Corps and is a Vietnam veteran. Mr. Salman received an MBA from the University of Hartford. You can read about Mr. Salman’s life’s work in his recently published book “What We Give: From Marine to Philanthropist: A Memoir,” available at https://www.whatwegivebook.com/.
Mr. Salman remarked: “I am intrigued by this appointment as Strategic Advisor to Silver Crown Royalties. Silver Crown’s unique royalty model offers investors a new approach to silver investing. I look forward to an interesting and progress driven working relationship.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Terry Salman to our team as advisor. Terry’s decades of experience in mining finance combined with his deep industry insights and strong leadership make him an invaluable asset to our team. Terry’s commitment to excellence and his proven track record in the sector will be instrumental as we continue to grow and achieve our strategic objectives”, commented Peter Bures CEO of Silver Crown Royalties
ABOUT SALMAN PARTNERS
Salman Partners is an independent advisory firm with a distinguished 30-year history in the financial services industry. Since its incorporation in September 1994, the firm has evolved from its origins as a licensed broker-dealer in Canada and the United States to become a trusted advisor in the resource sector. Throughout its extensive history, Salman Partners has provided expert guidance to over 400 companies, maintaining a rich tradition of excellence and integrity in financial advisory services.
ABOUT SILVER CROWN ROYALTIES INC.
Founded by industry veterans, SCRi is a publicly traded, revenue-generating silver-only royalty company focusing on silver as byproduct credits. SCRi aims to minimize the economic impact on mining projects while maximizing returns for shareholders. SCRi presently has two sources of revenue and continues to build on this foundation, targeting additional operational silver-producing projects.
For further information, please contact:
Silver Crown Royalties Inc.
Peter Bures
Chairman and CEO
Telephone: (416) 481-1744
Email: pbures@silvercrownroyalties.com
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This release contains certain “forward-looking statements” and certain “forward-looking information” as defined under applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “plans” or similar terminology. The forward-looking information contained herein is provided for the purpose of assisting readers in understanding management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to statements with respect to SCRi’s ability to achieve its strategic objectives in the future and its ability to target additional operational silver-producing projects. 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 information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual actions, events or results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: the impact of general business and economic conditions; the absence of control over mining operations from which SCRi will purchase gold and other metals or from which it will receive royalty payments and risks related to those mining operations, including risks related to international operations, government and environmental regulation, delays in mine construction and operations, actual results of mining and current exploration activities, conclusions of economic evaluations and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; SCRi’s ability to enter into definitive agreements and close proposed royalty transactions; the inherent uncertainties related to the valuations ascribed by SCRi to its royalty interests; problems inherent to the marketability of gold and other metals; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; industry conditions, including fluctuations in the price of the primary commodities mined at such operations, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and fluctuations in interest rates; government entities interpreting existing tax legislation or enacting new tax legislation in a way which adversely affects SCRi; stock market volatility; regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, the potential impact of epidemics, pandemics or other public health crises on SCRi’s business, operations and financial condition, loss of key employees. SCRi has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. SCRi undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking information represents management’s best judgment based on information currently available.
This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities of the Company in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. Any such offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein will be made only pursuant to subscription documentation between the Company and prospective purchasers. Any such offering will be made in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus and registration requirements under applicable securities laws, pursuant to a subscription agreement to be entered into by the Company and prospective investors. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.
CBOE CANADA DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.
Kelowna, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – October 16, 2024) – F3 Uranium Corp. (TSXV: FUU) (OTCQB: FUUFF) (“F3 Uranium” or the “Company“) announces that it has revised the pricing of its previously announced private placement for gross proceeds of C$7,000,000 (the “Underwritten Offering“). Under the revised Underwritten Offering, the Underwriters (as defined herein) have agreed to purchase for resale 6,562,500 federal flow-through units of the Company (the “FFT Units“) at a price of C$0.375 per FFT Unit (the “FFT Offering Price“) and 10,937,500 Saskatchewan flow-through units of the Company (the “SFT Units“, and together with the FFT Units, the “FT Units“) at a price of C$0.415 per SFT Unit (the “SFT Offering Price“) on a “bought deal” basis. An aggregate of 17,500,000 FT Units of the Company will be sold at a blended price of C$0.40 per FT Unit. Red Cloud Securities Inc. is acting as the lead underwriter and sole bookrunner on behalf of a syndicate of underwriters (collectively, the “Underwriters“).
Each Charity FT Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (each, a “Common Share“) to be issued as a “flow-through share” within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a “FT Share“) and one half of one Common Share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a “Warrant“). Each whole Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one Common Share (each, a “Warrant Share“) at a price of C$0.40 at any time on or before that date which is 24 months after the Closing Date (as herein defined).
The Company will grant to the Underwriters an option, exercisable up to 48 hours prior to the Closing Date, to purchase for resale up to an additional [937,500] FFT Units at the FFT Offering Price and up to an additional 1,562,500 SFT Units at the SFT Offering Price for additional gross proceeds of up to C$1,000,000 (the “Over-Allotment Option“, and together with the Underwritten Offering, the “Offering“). If the Over-Allotment Option is exercised in full, the total gross proceeds of the Offering will be C$8,000,000.
The Company will have the right to include a list of subscribers to purchase up to 1,250,000 FT Units under the Offering (the “President’s List“). The President’s List will be allocated under the Over-Allotment Option and, for greater certainty, all purchasers under the Over-Allotment Option will receive Non-LIFE FT Units (as defined herein) on the terms of the Offering and subject to certain resale restrictions as described below.
Up to 12,500,000 FT Units to be sold pursuant to the Underwritten Offering (the “LIFE FT Units“), representing gross proceeds of up to C$5,000,000, will be offered by way of the “listed issuer financing” exemption under Part 5A under National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106“) in all the provinces of Canada with the exception of Québec (the “Selling Jurisdictions“). The FT Shares and Warrant Shares issuable pursuant to the sale of the LIFE FT Units are expected to be immediately freely tradeable under applicable Canadian securities legislation if sold to purchasers’ resident in Canada. The remaining 5,000,000 FT Units to be sold pursuant to the Underwritten Offering as well as the FT Units that may be sold under the Over-Allotment Option (collectively, the “Non LIFE FT Units“), which includes the FT Units to be sold under the President’s List, will be offered by way of the “accredited investor” and “minimum amount investment” exemptions under NI 45-106 in the Selling Jurisdictions. The FT Shares and Warrant Shares issuable from the sale of Non-LIFE FT Units will be subject to a restricted period in Canada ending on the date that is four months plus one day following the closing of the Offering as defined in Subsection 2.5(2) of Multilateral Instrument 45-102 – Resale of Securities.
The Offering is expected to close on October 31, 2024 (the “Closing Date“). The proceeds of the Offering will be used by the Company to fund the exploration of the Company’s projects in the Athabasca Basin.
There is an offering document related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Company’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca and at the Company’s website at www.f3uranium.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.
F3 Uranium also announces that it has signed a marketing agreement with Apaton Finance of Hannover, Germany. F3 Uranium will pay Apaton €20,000 from October 31, 2024 to January 31, 2025. Apaton will write articles, conduct interviews and distribute them online in German and English via renowned and established major financial media, making them accessible to the target group.
Apaton Finance GmbH does not have any direct or indirect interest in F3 or its securities and no incentive stock options have been granted
About F3 Uranium Corp.
F3 Uranium is a uranium exploration company advancing its newly discovered high-grade JR Zone and exploring for additional mineralized zones on its 100%-owned Patterson Lake North (PLN) Project in the southwest Athabasca Basin. PLN is accessed by Provincial Highway 955, which transects the property, and the new JR Zone discovery is located ~25km northwest of Fission Uranium’s Triple R and NexGen Energy’s Arrow high-grade uranium deposits. This area is poised to become the next major area of development for new uranium operations in northern Saskatchewan. The PLN project is comprised of the PLN, Minto and Broach properties. The Broach property incorporates the former PW property which was obtained from CanAlaska as a result of a property swap.
The TSX Venture Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this press release, and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
F3 Uranium Corp. 750-1620 Dickson Avenue Kelowna, BC V1Y9Y2
Contact Information Investor Relations Telephone: 778 484 8030 Emaill: ir@f3uranium.com
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
“Dev Randhawa” Dev Randhawa, CEO
Cautionary Statement:F3 Uranium Corp.
This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws, which is based upon the Company’s current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. The forward-looking information included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the Company’s expectations with respect to the Offering; the use of proceeds of the Offering; completion of the Offering and the date of such completion. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information relate to future events and future performance and include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information often, but not always, 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 forward-looking information are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties relating to: general business and economic conditions; regulatory approval for the Offering; completion of the Offering; changes in commodity prices; the supply and demand for, deliveries of, and the level and volatility of the price of uranium and other metals; changes in project parameters as exploration plans continue to be refined; costs of exploration including labour and equipment costs; risks and uncertainties related to the ability to obtain or maintain necessary licenses, permits or surface rights; changes in credit market conditions and conditions in financial markets generally; the ability to procure equipment and operating supplies in sufficient quantities and on a timely basis; the availability of qualified employees and contractors; the impact of value of the Canadian dollar and U.S. dollar, foreign exchange rates on costs and financial results; market competition; exploration results not being consistent with the Company’s expectations; changes in taxation rates or policies; technical difficulties in connection with mining activities; changes in environmental regulation; environmental compliance issues; and other risks of the mining industry. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that could cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. For more information on the Company and the risks and challenges of its business, investors should review the Company’s annual filings that are available atwww.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and F3 Uranium Corp. disclaim any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities legislation.
Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – October 16, 2024) – Riverside Resources Inc. (TSXV: RRI) (OTCQB: RVSDF) (FSE: 5YY)(“Riverside” or the “Company”), is pleased to announce that its 100% owned subsidiary, Blue Jay Resources, has completed a Light Detection and Ranging (“LiDAR”) airborne geophysical survey at the Duc Project, 50 kms southwest of the town of Kapuskasing, Ontario as part of the conclusion of a successful summer field program. Exploration work of sampling, mapping and now LiDAR provides expanded targeting and also improved definition of the surface projection of east-west Abitibi greenstone style shears and second order ENE cross structures which typically occur in this western part of the Wawa-Abitibi along the major gold-bearing breaks that host significant gold resources in the Timmins Camp.
“Our exploration team recently received the detailed LiDAR survey which now is part of our wrapping up the successful summer exploration program on the Duc Project in Ontario and we look forward to following up with the further interpretations and targeting using the LiDAR survey and Orthophoto,” stated John-Mark Staude, CEO of Riverside Resources. “The project is situated within the Wawa Greenstone Belt which hosts high-grade gold in large district structures such as Hemlo Mining Camp which has produced over 30M Oz Au (Barrick annual reports), and we believe that further exploration at Duc, in anticipation of a drill program, continues to show growing discovery potential.”
“Precious metals, and in particular gold, have seen significant investment interest and subsequent price increases this year,” added Staude. “We have a strong property portfolio in the important gold producing province of Ontario and are excited to push forward on further exploration efforts in this very supportive gold price environment.”
Highlighted Results of the Completed LiDAR Survey:
The survey provides new Geo-referenced 3D map and point cloud of the area ≥100 points/m2 making a detailed surface map useful for tracking sampling, field work and structural geologic interpretations.
A ≤20 cm digital surface model (DSM)
An accurate digital elevation model (DEM)
An accurate ground surface contour map
An accurate Hill Shade Bare Earth map
Combining LiDAR with the Orthophoto and heli-mag provides the framework for the next phase of Duc exploration work going into the winter season.
LiDAR is a very useful, relatively new technology whereby surface outcrop patterns suggestive of underlying geology and structure can be identified including subtle aspects and seeing through the surface trees and plant cover that can hide surface details. This survey which distinguishes down to the multi-centimeter scale was also coupled with orthophotography remote sensing images and techniques. This combination of LiDAR and orthophoto combined relies on rigorous, high-quality data collected under strict QA/QC standards and is most useful for delineating linear features such as faults or resistant rock types such as silicification. LiDAR helps with structural geological interpretation, outcrop mapping and accurately identifying areas of past work which in turn helps design sampling and mapping programs that focus on geological contacts, shear zones and faults. Through this LiDAR survey at Duc old workings and diggings have been identified which were not previously noted due to tree and plant cover. The past excavations and the airborne geophysics completed by Riverside will help to focus field follow up sampling programs.
The LiDAR methods are very useful for modelling faults subject to hydrothermal alteration which could host gold mineralization and are one of the main gold target types for Duc. The faults from the past field mapping were primarily tracked using the helicopter airborne magnetics and processed images from this data. But now with LiDAR and orthophoto thus combining the three surveys the Duc fault structures and generational sequence is more clearly decipherable with attention to potential mineralization corridors, fold noses, structural intersections that are generally gold exploration targets. This data accentuates the NE fabric and the intersecting N-S and NW off sets which could be post the main mineralization thus with the LiDAR the Company can potentially define more extensive offset gold zones
About the Duc Project
The Duc Project is located in the Porcupine Mining Division, approximately 50 km southwest of Kapuskasing, Ontario. Covering 580 hectares, it sits within the highly prospective Kapuskasing Structural Zone, near the open-pit phosphate mine of Agrium Ltd. The property is underlain by a mix of metasedimentary and metavolcanic rocks, with potential for gold and rare earth element (REE) mineralization. Recent exploration, including a 2023 helicopter magnetics survey, has confirmed key structural elements and identified promising areas for follow-up targeting work.
The Company is leading exploration efforts at Duc, focusing on gold mineralization and potential platinum group metals (PGMs). Historical drilling and geophysical data suggest significant gold and nickel potential, while current geophysical surveys have highlighted new targets. Planned work includes further integration of the new geophysical surveys, geochemical analysis, and then drilling to refine these targets and advance the project towards more detailed exploration.
Qualified Person & QA/QC:
The scientific and technical data contained in this news release pertaining to the Duc Project was reviewed and approved by Freeman Smith, P.Geo, a non-independent qualified person to Riverside Resources who is responsible for ensuring that the information provided in this news release is accurate and who acts as a “qualified person” under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.
About Riverside Resources Inc.:
Riverside is a well-funded exploration company driven by value generation and discovery. The Company has over $5M in cash, no debt and less than 75M shares outstanding with a strong portfolio of gold-silver and copper assets and royalties in North America. Riverside has extensive experience and knowledge operating in Mexico and Canada and leverages its large database to generate a portfolio of prospective mineral properties. In addition to Riverside’s own exploration spending, the Company also strives to diversify risk by securing joint-venture and spin-out partnerships to advance multiple assets simultaneously and create more chances for discovery. Riverside has properties available for option, with information available on the Company’s website at www.rivres.com.
ON BEHALF OF RIVERSIDE RESOURCES INC.
“John-Mark Staude”
Dr. John-Mark Staude, President & CEO
For additional information contact:
John-Mark Staude President, CEO Riverside Resources Inc. info@rivres.com Phone: (778) 327-6671 Fax: (778) 327-6675 Web: www.rivres.com
Eric Negraeff Investor Relations Riverside Resources Inc. Phone: (778) 327-6671 TF: (877) RIV-RES1 Web: www.rivres.com
Certain statements in this press release may be considered forward-looking information. These statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology (e.g., “expect”,” estimates”, “intends”, “anticipates”, “believes”, “plans”). Such information involves known and unknown risks — including the availability of funds, the results of financing and exploration activities, the interpretation of exploration results and other geological data, or unanticipated costs and expenses and other risks identified by Riverside in its public securities filings that may cause actual events to differ materially from current expectations. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
LAKE KARIBA, Zambia (AP) — Tindor Sikunyongana is trying to run a welding business which these days means buying a diesel generator with costly fuel he can’t always afford.
Like everyone in Zambia, Sikunyongana is facing a daily struggle to find and afford electricity during a climate-induced energy crisis that’s robbed the southern African country of almost all its power.
“Only God knows when this crisis will end,” said Sikunyongana. His generator ran out of diesel and spluttered to a halt as he spoke. “You see what I mean?” he said.
Zambia’s worst electricity blackouts in memory have been caused by a severe drought in the region that has left the critical Kariba dam, the source of Sikunyongana’s woes, with insufficient water to run its hydroelectric turbines. Kariba is the largest man-made lake in the world by volume and lies 200 kilometers (125 miles) south of Lusaka on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe.
The massive dam wall was built in the 1950s and more than 80 workers died during construction. It was meant to revolutionize the countries’ energy supplies by trapping the water of the Zambezi River, turning a valley into a huge lake and providing an endless supply of renewable hydroelectric power.
That’s not the case anymore as months of drought brought by the naturally occurring El Nino weather pattern and exacerbated by warming temperatures have put Zambia’s hydroelectric station on the brink of completely shutting down for the first time.
The water level is so low that only one of the six turbines on Zambia’s side of the dam is able to operate, cutting generation to less than 10% of normal output. Zambia relies on Kariba for more than 80% of its national electricity supply, and the result is Zambians have barely a few hours of power a day at the best of times. Often, areas are going without electricity for days.
Edla Musonda is so exasperated that she’s taken to lugging her entire desktop computer — hard drive, monitor, everything — to a local cafe so she can work.
Musonda and others cram into the Mercato Cafe in the Zambian capital of Lusaka, not for the sandwiches or the ambiance but because it has a diesel generator. Tables are cluttered with power strips and cables as people plug in cell phones, laptops and in Musonda’s case, a home office. This is the only way her small travel business is going to survive.
Less than half of Zambia’s 20 million people had access to electricity before Kariba’s problems. Millions more have now been forced to adjust as mothers find different ways to cook for their families and children do their homework by candlelight. The most damaging impact is during the daylight hours when small businesses, the backbone of the country, struggle to operate.
“This is also going to increase poverty levels in the country,” said economist Trevor Hambayi, who fears Zambia’s economy will shrink dramatically if the power crisis is prolonged. It’s a warning call to the Zambian government and the continent in general about the danger to development of relying heavily on one source of energy that is so climate dependent.
The power crisis is a bigger blow to the economy and the battle against poverty than the lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Zambia Association of Manufacturers president Ashu Sagar.
Africa contributes the least to global warming but is the most vulnerable continent to extreme weather events and climate change as poor countries can’t meet the high financials costs of adapting. This year’s drought in southern Africa is the worst in decades and has parched crops and left millions hungry, causing Zambia and others to already declare national disasters and ask for aid.
Hydroelectric power accounts for 17% of Africa’s energy generation, but that figure is expected to rise to 23% by 2040, according to the International Energy Agency. Zambia is not alone in that hydroelectric power makes up over 80% of the energy mix in Mozambique, Malawi, Uganda, Ethiopia and Congo, even as experts warn it will become more unreliable.
“Extreme weather patterns, including prolonged droughts, make it clear that overreliance on hydro is no longer sustainable,” said Carlos Lopes, a professor at the Mandela School of Public Governance at the University of Cape Town in South Africa.
The Zambian government has urged people and businesses to embrace solar power. But many Zambians can’t afford the technology, while the government itself has turned to more familiar but polluting diesel generators to temporarily power hospitals and other buildings. It has also said it will increase its electricity from coal-fired stations out of necessity. While neighboring Zimbabwe has also lost much of its electricity generation from Kariba and blackouts there are also frequent, it gets a greater share of its power from coal plants.
At Kariba, the 128-meter-high (420-feet) dam wall is almost completely exposed. A dry, reddish-brown stain near the top marks where the water once reached in better times more than a decade ago.
Leonard Siamubotu, who has taken tourists on boat cruises on the picturesque lake for more than 20 years, has seen the change. As the water level dropped, it exposed old, dead trees that were completely submerged for years after the wall was built. “I’m seeing this tree for the first time,” he said of one that’s appeared in the middle of the lake.
The lake’s water level naturally rises and recedes according to the season, but generally it should go up by around six meters after the rains. It moved by less than 30 centimeters after the last rainy season barely materialized, authorities said. They hope this year’s rains, which should start in November, will be good. But they estimate that it’ll still take three good years for Kariba to fully recover its hydroelectric capability.
Experts say there’s also no guarantee those rains will come and it’s dangerous to rely on a changing climate given Zambia has had drought-induced power problems before, and the trend is they are getting worse.
“That’s not a solution … just to sit and wait for nature,” said Hambayi.
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Associated Press journalist Taiwo Adebayo in Abuja, Nigeria contributed to this report.
The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Gates Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
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The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
FILE PHOTO: A man walks in the Central Business District on a rainy day, in Beijing · Reuters
Fri, October 11, 2024 at 11:24 PM EDT
SINGAPORE (Reuters) – China said on Saturday it will “significantly increase” government debt issuance to offer subsidies to people with low incomes, support the property market and replenish state banks’ capital as it pushes to revive sputtering economic growth.
Without providing details on the size of the fiscal stimulus being prepared, Finance Minister Lan Foan told a news conference there will be more “counter-cyclical measures” this year.
Global financial markets have been keenly awaiting more details on China’s stimulus plans, fearing its 2024 economic growth target and longer-term growth trajectory may be at risk if more support is not announced soon.
Here are some comments from investors and analysts on the press briefing from China’s finance ministry:
RONG REN GOH, PORTFOLIO MANAGER, EASTSPRING INVESTMENTS, SINGAPORE
“Investors were hoping for fresh stimulus, accompanied by specific numbers, to be announced at the MOF presser, including the size of these commitments. From this perspective, it turned out to be somewhat of a damp squib given only vague guidance was provided.
“That said, there were meaningful measures announced. The MoF affirmed room for the central government to increase debt, more support for housing markets, and increased local government debt quotas to alleviate refinancing woes.
“However, with markets focused on ‘how much’ over ‘what’, they were invariably set up to be disappointed by this briefing.”
HUANG XUEFENG, CREDIT RESEARCH DIRECTOR, SHANGHAI ANFANG PRIVATE FUND CO, SHANGHAI
“The focus seems to be around funding the fiscal gap and solving local government debt risks, which far undershoots expectations that had been priced into the recent stock market jump. Without arrangements targeting demand and investment, it’s hard to ease the deflationary pressure.”
ZHAOPENG XING, SENIOR CHINA STRATEGIST, ANZ, SHANGHAI
“MOF focused more on derisking local governments. It will likely add new quotas of treasury and local bonds. We expect a 10 trillion yuan ($1.42 trillion) implicit debt swap in the next few years. Official deficit and local bond quotas may both increase to 5 trillion yuan going forward. But it looks (to be) not much this year. We expect 1 trillion ultra-long treasury and 1 trillion local bonds to be announced by NPC this month end.”
BRUCE PANG, CHIEF ECONOMIST CHINA, JONES LANG LASALLE, HONG KONG
“The message released from today’s press conference is actually quite in line with the expectations of those familiar with China’s policy-making process and state structure. The officials have given answers to questions of ‘how’ but no details of ‘when’, yet.
“I will expect more details and number of the previewed fiscal stimulus to be published only after the upcoming meeting of the NPCSC to approve a plan to increase treasury issuance and provide a mid-year revision to the national budget. And it would be reasonable and practical to keep room for policy manoeuvring to prepare for external shocks and uncertainties.”
CHRISTOPHER WONG, CURRENCY STRATEGIST, OCBC, SINGAPORE
“There was mention of 2.3 trillion yuan and some details on local bond issuance that can support housing … but it stopped short of a big surprise factor. That said, we shouldn’t lose sight of the bigger picture and that is policymakers acknowledged the issues and are putting in genuine effort to tackle those issues.
“More time may be needed for more thought-out and targeted measures. But those measures also need to come fast as markets are eagerly waiting for them. Over expectations vs under-delivery would result in disappointment and that can manifest itself into Chinese markets.”
TIANCHEN XU, SENIOR ECONOMIST, ECONOMIST INTELLIGENCE UNIT, BEIJING
“Our overall take is quite positive in that MoF is willing to tackle China’s many economic challenges by leveraging its borrowing room. The immediate benefits to the economy will be limited, as the MoF avoided large-scale direct cash handouts to households. However, its commitment to restoring local public finances through fiscal transfer and debt replacement is highly commendable.
“In the medium term, it will put an end to the aggressive deleveraging by local governments and ease the resulting deflationary pressure. And as their financial position stabilises, local governments will be better positioned to support the economy by providing public services and embark on public investments.
“The Chinese government’s determination to provide a backstop to the ailing property market and economy came through clearly in the press briefing by the MoF. However, specific numbers with regards to initiatives announced was lacking. The lack of a big headline figure may also disappoint some investors who were hoping for the government to announce a sizeable 2 trillion yuan in fresh fiscal stimulus to shore up the economy and boost confidence.
“Investors were hoping for more measures targeted at households instead of only the real estate sector. While today’s measures were focused on local governments and helping them to purchase unsold homes, it is unclear if this will translate into action as local governments have been reluctant so far to participate in the home purchase program for fear that home prices could fall further.
“Nevertheless, investors will take some comfort from the Finance Minister’s pronouncement that the central government has room to increase debt and the deficit, and that it has other tools in consideration to use in future. This offers hope that more can and will be done, although investors hoping for a big bang fiscal bazooka today will probably be disappointed.
($1 = 7.0666 Chinese yuan renminbi)
(Reporting by Asia markets team and China economics team; compiled by Ankur Banerjee; Editing by Kim Coghill)
Cycles surround us. In markets, astronomy, and our lives.
Every day is a circadian cycle for us all. Our bodies move through phases based on our exposure to light or darkness.
Markets are also remarkably cyclical, responding to the environment around them. Interest rates, regulation, monetary policy and investor psychology all play important roles.
Precious metals are no different. The sector’s performance ebbs and flows over time.
An even better example is from 1972 to 1980 when gold returned 1,256% to the S&P 500’s 97%.
Of course, stocks take their turn in the spotlight too.
From 2012 to 2021, stocks returned 336% vs gold’s 16%. And from 1980 to 1999, stocks were absolutely dominant as gold went dormant for nearly two decades.
Over the past few years, both have done well.
The point here is that it’s a cycle.
Just take a look at the chart below. It shows the ratio of S&P 500 performance vs gold through 2021.
I believe we switched back to precious metals mode at the beginning of this year. And if this is the beginning of a fresh cycle, we may be in for another 7-plus years of precious metals outperforming stocks.
Given the magnitude of what we’re facing, it could go on longer than that.
Catalysts and Causes
Periods where gold outperforms tend to be chaotic.
Past catalysts have included a crash at the end of a major bull market (1971 and 2000), and an inflationary shift in monetary policy (1971 and 2000).
Wars often play a part as well, as they did in the 1970s (Vietnam and others), and the early 2000s (War on Terror). Wars spike deficits and increase the monetary supply. They also drive safe-haven demand from both central banks and investors.
I believe our situation today fits the bill.
Stocks are still doing well, for now, but markets look expensive. The chart below, from Longview Economics, shows that 90% of U.S. stock sectors are in their top quartile (25%) of historical valuations.
Stocks are richly valued across almost the entire board. This tends to happen near market peaks. And I don’t see any positive catalysts hiding around the corner to drive sustainable real growth.
Of course, the broad bubble in U.S. stocks could go on for longer than we expect, but at this point, I’m more focused on precious metals and even certain foreign markets.
To be clear, I do own U.S. stocks and will continue to.
But during times like these, I lower that exposure and boost my allocation to alternatives, particularly gold and silver.
Macro Looks Bullish for Gold
The U.S. and many other countries are reaching a tipping point with debt. Total global debt just reached $315 trillion, which is 333% of global GDP.
The Federal Reserve just switched into easy-money mode and is likely to fire up formal QE in the near future. China’s central bank just injected massive liquidity to boost its sluggish economy. More countries will follow suit, and global liquidity is poised to surge.
In addition, we have multiple wars and conflicts raging in Yemen, Ukraine, Israel, Iran and beyond. Nascent proxy wars between the US and Russia are quietly breaking out in multiple African countries.
Military spending is booming, with Russia increasing its annual defense spending to 40% of its total budget. And China’s defense spending now rivals the U.S. in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP). Naturally, the U.S. is no slouch in this area and is also ramping up spending and production.
Durable Catalysts
The stage is set for a powerful precious metals bull market cycle. The problems facing the world are not going away anytime soon. Even if all the conflicts end tomorrow, and they won’t, we’re still facing a structural debt problem of unprecedented magnitude.
Further conflict and spending will just add gas to the fire.
For now, markets seem complacent that all is well with the economy. It won’t last forever. If we get a nice pullback in gold and silver here, and we may well, it’ll be an amazing opportunity to stack up. I will continue to buy on pullbacks.
