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Corazon takes full control of the Miriam Nickel Sulphide Project
Corazon Mining Limited (ASX: CZN) (Corazon or Company) is pleased to announce it has further progressed its rights to acquire 100% of the Miriam Nickel Sulphide Project (Miriam or Project) near Coolgardie in Western Australia’s Goldfields minerals district.
Previously, the Company announced it had entered into an agreement with Limelight Industries Pty Ltd (Vendor) to acquire 100% of the Miriam Project (ASX announcements 26 July and 15 October 2021); the Company is now pleased to advise it has successfully completed Stage 2 of the acquisition. Corazon will acquire a 100% interest in the Project (and take control and management of the Project) in consideration of the payment to the Vendors of $400,000 and a 2% net smelter return royalty, pursuant to the Option Agreement, details of which are included in this ASX announcement.
The completion of Stage 2 sees Corazon being entitled to 100% of the Project and taking sole control and management of the Project, on behalf of all parties, with the Vendor retaining the right to mine mullock dumps (for gold mineralisation) and to metal detect on the area for the first three (3) years post grant of the relevant tenure.
Miriam is a highly prospective nickel exploration project that represents a strategic addition to Corazon’s portfolio of nickel sulphide assets. The Project is located approximately 10 kilometres south-southwest of Coolgardie on an ultramafic trend, which also hosts Auroch Minerals’ (ASX: AOU) Nepean Nickel Deposit.
Corazon is enthusiastic about the Project’s exploration potential. Drilling undertaken predominantly in the 1960s and 1970s at the Miriam Nickel Deposit intersected ‘high nickel tenor’ massive and disseminated sulphides. Corazon has highlighted extensions to areas of known mineralisation as the initial priority exploration focus.
Highlights
- Stage 2 in the acquisiton process for the Miriam Nickel Sulphide Project has been completed
- Corazon has assumed sole management of the Project and is progressing the grant of tenure as a priority
- Work programs under development will focus on modern, high-powered geophysics to test areas of known mineralisation for follow-up drilling
About the Miriam Project
The Miriam Project is located approximately 10 kilometres south-southwest of Coolgardie on a trend of ultramafics best identified by the Miriam and Nepean nickel deposits (Auroch Minerals, ASX: AOU).
The Miriam Project covers an area of about 6 kilometres by 1.5 kilometers and comprises five Prospecting Licence applications (P15/6135 to P15/6139 inclusive).
In 1969, Anaconda Australia Limited discovered the Miriam Deposit, located within the Project, and conducted most of the known nickel exploration during the late 1960s and early 1970s. This work defined the core of the Miriam Deposit over a strike of about 150 meters and to a depth of at least 150 metres below surface. In places, subsequent drilling extended the drilled depth to about 300 metres below surface.
Referenced open-file documents (ASX announcement, 26 July 2021) detailing historical work defines a nickel-copper endowment for the Miriam Deposit. This work is not compliant with current JORC standards, and further drilling is required for the definition of a JORC resource estimate at Miriam.
Much of the historical drilling, which tested the ultramafic sequence north and south of the Miriam Deposit, was shallow percussion drilling that did not penetrate the overlying oxidised zone, and many of the holes did not reached the ultramafic footwall target. There is extensive untested opportunity to target nickel sulphide mineralisation at depth and along strike from previous drilling.
Click here for the full ASX Release
This article includes content from OCorazon Mining Limited , licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
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Corazon Mining
Investor Insight
Corazon Mining Ltd. presents a distinctive investment case, enhanced by their shift towards high-grade base and precious metals. Spotlighting the MacBride Project reflects Corazon’s growing demand for copper, zincand gold, while concurrently maintaining the Lynn Lake project as a significant, strategic nickel asset for the future.
Overview
Corazon Mining Ltd. (ASX:CZN) is an Australian junior exploration company focused on unlocking value in high-quality copper, zinc, gold and nickel projects in Canada and Australia.
While nickel remains a critical battery metal, Corazon sees the immediate opportunity in the broader base and precious metals sector and is concentrating its resources on the newly acquired MacBride base and precious metals project located in the Lynn Lake District in Manitoba, Canada.
The market for critical minerals is evolving, with investors looking for high-value projects in secure, first world regions. Corazon is strategically placed to capitalize on rising demand for battery and base metals, as global supply chains seek to secure stable sources of copper, zinc and nickel. With significant exploration potential, high-quality assets and a strong management team, Corazon is positioned to deliver shareholder value through discovery and project development.
Company Highlights
- Corazon’s exploration focus is on its recently acquired MacBride Project, which has proven prospectivity for high-grade copper-zinc-gold-silver.
- MacBride is located in the Lynn Lake District of Manitoba, Canada, where Corazon also owns 100 percent of the entire historic Lynn Lake nickel-copper-cobalt sulphide camp.
- Lynn Lake provides a unique opportunity for the creation of a large-scale, polymetallic-processing hub, with established beneficial infrastructure, including low-cost renewable hydroelectric power.
- Corazon’s assets are positioned in a historically productive district, where large-scale deposits have been previously mined. MacBride’s proximity to other major deposits supports its potential for a new, large-scale discovery.
- With a small market cap and large, high-quality assets, Corazon offers a compelling investment opportunity. Though its nickel sulphide resources rival those of larger competitors, Corazon remains significantly underappreciated in the market.
- Lynn Lake’s location in a mining-friendly jurisdiction, with access to hydroelectric power, road and rail infrastructure, enhances project economics and accelerates development timelines.
Key Projects
MacBride Project (Flagship)
Corazon’s newest acquisition, the MacBride project is the company’s primary focus due to its high-grade, near-surface mineralisation. The project holds drill-defined, high-grade copper-zinc-gold deposits, with multiple geophysical anomalies that indicate significant exploration upside.
Project Highlights:
- Historical High-grade Deposits: Previous drilling has defined a historical metal endowment over an approximately 230 metres strike, largely down to about 200 metres depth. While not yet JORC-compliant, the historic endowment indicates strong mineralisation potential and establishes the MacBride deposit as a priority target for additional resource definition drilling.
- District-scale Potential: MacBride sits within a region that has historically produced world-class base and precious metal deposits. The presence of multiple mineralised zones within the project area indicates the potential for a significant new discovery.
- Exploration Upside: Extensive recently completed geophysical surveys have identified multiple conductive bodies (anomalies) on trend with known deposits sulphide deposits. Corazon’s ongoing work will focus on drill testing these targets, with the goal of establishing a camp of base and precious metal massive sulphide deposits at MacBride.
- Strategic Location: Located just 60 kilometres from Lynn Lake, MacBride benefits from the infrastructure and logistical advantages of the established mining district.
Lynn Lake Project – A Strategic Nickel Asset
Lynn Lake continues to stand as a valuable nickel-copper-cobalt sulphide project, offering strategic, long-term benefits.
Project Highlights:
- JORC-compliant Resource: Lynn Lake holds one of the largest nickel sulphide resources in Canada, with 116,000 tons of nickel metal, along with copper and cobalt.
- Future Development Potential: While market conditions for nickel are currently challenging, the project represents a significant long-term strategic asset that can be activated when demand increases.
- Infrastructure and Support: Lynn Lake is fully permitted and benefits from access to hydroelectric power, a mining-friendly jurisdiction, and existing road and rail networks.
Development Plans
The MacBride Project is an exciting exploration play. The outcropping high-grade MacBride massive sulphide deposit is on trend from multiple priority un-tested conductive bodies.
Corazon is committed to advancing the MacBride project and solidifying its position as a leading high-grade base and precious metals exploration company. Corazon’s forward-looking plans include:
- Expanding Exploration at MacBride: Corazon plans to conduct additional geophysical surveys and drilling campaigns to further define the scale and grade of mineralisation.
- Testing Priority Drill Targets: Several high-priority geophysical anomalies will be drill-tested, building on the existing resource base and potentially uncovering new deposits.
- Optimising Lynn Lake’s Value: While exploration at MacBride remains the primary focus, Corazon will continue to evaluate strategic opportunities for its Lynn Lake project, including potential partnerships and project financing to bring the asset closer to development.
- Engaging with Strategic Investors: Corazon is actively seeking investment and funding opportunities to accelerate exploration and development activities. The company is open to joint ventures geared towards fast-tracking the advancement of its projects.
- Enhancing Market Positioning: By continuing to demonstrate the significant value of its assets, Corazon aims to improve its market perception and increase shareholder returns.
Management Team
Brett S. Smith – Executive Managing Director
Brett Smith has been with Corazon since 2011, bringing over 35 years of experience in exploration and corporate management. He has a robust track record in advancing mining projects from exploration through to development.
Kristie Young – Interim Chairperson
Appointed in September 2023, Kristie Young is a mining engineer with extensive experience in project evaluation, business development and corporate governance. She has held various leadership roles across the mining sector.
Dr. Mark Yumin Qiu – Non-executive Director
Serving on the board since 2017, Dr. Mark Yumin Qiu has been instrumental in project generation and corporate transactions, including the $2.5 billion sale of Sino Gold to Eldorado Gold.
Andrew Strickland – Non-executive Director
Appointed in September 2023, Andrew Strickland brings experience in project development, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic partnerships within the mining industry.
Robert Orr – Company Secretary and Chief Financial Officer
Robert Orr manages Corazon's financial operations and corporate governance, ensuring compliance and effective financial management.
Base and precious metals development in the historic Lynn Lake mining district of Manitoba, Canada.
Corazon Mining: Base and Precious Metals Development in the Historic Lynn Lake Mining District
Corazon Mining (ASX:CZN) unlocks value in high-quality base and precious metals projects in Canada and Australia. Focusing on the MacBride Project reflects Corazon’s growing demand for copper, zincand gold, while concurrently maintaining the Lynn Lake project as a significant, strategic nickel asset for the future.
The MacBride project is Corazon Mining's recent acquisition exemplifying high-grade, near-surface mineralisation. MacBride holds drill-defined, high-grade copper-zinc-gold deposits, with multiple geophysical anomalies that indicate significant exploration upside.
Located just 60 kilometres from Lynn Lake, MacBride benefits from the infrastructure and logistical advantages of the established mining district. Corazon’s ongoing work will focus on drill testing these targets, to establish a camp of base and precious metal massive sulphide deposits at MacBride.
Company Highlights
- Corazon’s exploration focus is on its recently acquired MacBride Project, which has proven prospectivity for high-grade copper-zinc-gold-silver.
- MacBride is located in the Lynn Lake District of Manitoba, Canada, where Corazon also owns 100 percent of the entire historic Lynn Lake nickel-copper-cobalt sulphide camp.
- Lynn Lake provides a unique opportunity for the creation of a large-scale, polymetallic-processing hub, with established beneficial infrastructure, including low-cost renewable hydroelectric power.
- Corazon’s assets are positioned in a historically productive district, where large-scale deposits have been previously mined. MacBride’s proximity to other major deposits supports its potential for a new, large-scale discovery.
- With a small market cap and large, high-quality assets, Corazon offers a compelling investment opportunity. Though its nickel sulphide resources rival those of larger competitors, Corazon remains significantly underappreciated in the market.
- Lynn Lake’s location in a mining-friendly jurisdiction, with access to hydroelectric power, road and rail infrastructure, enhances project economics and accelerates development timelines.
This Corazon Mining profile is part of a paid investor education campaign.*
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Lynn Lake Nickel Sulphide Project Update
Key Highlights
- Exploration drilling continuing at Fraser Lake Complex testing geophysical anomalies within the Motriuk ultramafic intrusion - encouraging nickel and copper sulphide mineralisation intersected
- New detailed geological modelling underway at the Lynn Lake Mining Centre to identify additional near surface resource potential not included in previous resource estimates or mining studies
- Metallurgical testwork on lower-grade mineralisation from the mining centre is underway – incorporating innovative “ore-sorting” technology as an upgrading option
Corazon’s ongoing focus is the pursuit of the potential redevelopment of Lynn Lake’s historical nickel sulphide Mining Centre towards production, and the targeted exploration for new nickel-copper-cobalt sulphide deposits within the Project area.
At the Mining Centre, the Company is assessing the potential to benefit from the extensive low-grade sulphide mineralisation surrounding known deposits and identifying relatively untested extensions to the current resources (within the upper levels of the mine surrounds).
Metallurgical testwork on lower grade material is currently underway and new 3D models of structure, rock type and geophysical surveys for the A-Plug Mining Centre (Figure 1) are being utilised to define potential areas for exploration and resource definition drilling.
Exploration drilling is ongoing at the Fraser Lake Complex (FLC) (Figure 1), testing geophysical targets (ASX announcement 11 April 2022). Encouraging nickel and copper sulphide mineralisation has been intersected at the Motriuk intrusion (ASX announcement 7 June 2022). The existence of visible pentlandite (nickel sulphide) in blebs and the potential for these sulphides to accumulate at depth, provide a compelling target for the drilling currently in progress.
Figure 1 – Lynn Lake Project - MobileMT survey magnetic susceptibility inversion depth slice at 50m below surface - over a GeoTem total-field regional aeromagnetic image, with the area of the gravity high target outlined.
Fraser Lake Complex Exploration Drilling
Exploration drilling at the Fraser Lake Complex is continuing, following early encouraging results from drilling at the Motriuk Ultramafic (ASX announcement 7 June 2022).
Progress of the drilling has been slow, with the drilling contractor needing to revert to one shift per day, due to the limited availability of personnel. This is an industry-wide issue due to both the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and the seasonal demands for exploration personnel.
Currently, there is a 10-day scheduled break in drilling, which is due to recommence on the 22nd of July 2022. With an all-inclusive per-metre rate for this drilling program, Corazon bears no additional cost for drilling down-time or slow meterage.
In mid-June 2022, senior Company personnel traveled to site to review the progress of the drilling, including the sulphides intersected at Motriuk (ASX announcement 7 June 2022). While the amount of sulphide mineralisation reported was low (typically 1-5% of volume) and as such the expectations for the nickel content is also low, the existence of visible pentlandite is very encouraging. The Motriuk Complex historically has been considered nickel-deficient compared to the average for such ultramafic rock (pyroxenites and peridotites). It is assumed the nickel was extracted from the melt as sulphide (pentlandite) during the magma’s transportation to Motriuk, or in-situ.
The Motriuk Ultramafic body is “keel-like” in shape, with a base that has been defined by geophysics. The current drilling is targeting the base of this intrusion, which has a dense and magnetic geophysical signature.
Updates regarding this drilling will be provided in due course.
Click here for the full ASX release
This article includes content from Corazon Mining, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
Porphyry Copper Target Identified at Mt Gilmore Project
Key Highlights
- Initial mineral vectoring geochemical studies have been completed by CODES at the University of Tasmania on rock and drill core samples collected from the Mt Gilmore Project
- The studies show the Mt Gilmore Cu-Au-Co trend has a complex hydrothermal history and geochemical characteristics particular to known large porphyry Cu deposits
- Results are extremely encouraging – additional mineral studies and geophysics will assist the definition of targets expected to be easily testable with drilling.
The new porphyry copper target area has been generated from initial results of a mineral chemistry vectoring study conducted by the University of Tasmania. Based on the positive results of this work, Corazon plans to undertake a new phase of targeted fieldwork at the Mt Gilmore Project.
Corazon's Mt Gilmore Project is located within the New England Orogen of northeastern NSW (Figure 1). Geochemical and geophysical surveys completed by Corazon at Mt Gilmore have indicated the potential for concealed intrusion related or porphyry copper-gold hydrothermal systems. However, identifying precise drill targets has been difficult due to the size of the geochemical anomalies (i.e. main target area of ~8km x 2km – Figure 2), poor surface exposure and lack of historical drilling.
In recent years, significant research has been devoted to mineral chemistry studies to assist in the exploration for blind mineral deposits. Work by the Centre for Ore Deposit and Earth Sciences (CODES) at the University of Tasmania has included porphyry vectoring and fertility tools (PVFTs), which use the chemical compositions of hydrothermal minerals to predict the likely direction and distance to mineralised centres, and the potential metal endowment of a mineral district.
Such studies completed by CODES on samples from Mt Gilmore have delivered exceptional early results, supporting the Project’s prospectivity and strong porphyry copper potential.
Figure 1 – Mt Gilmore Project Location
Rationale for Mineral Chemistry Vectoring Studies
Exploration by Corazon at the Mt Gilmore Project has identified a very large copper-cobalt-gold-silver soil geochemical anomaly over the full 22-kilometre strike of exposed basement rocks (Figure 2). This soil geochemical anomalism is supported by high-grade rock-chip samples from outcrops throughout the Project (ASX announcement 5 February 2019).
Reconnaissance induced polarisation (IP) geophysical surveys over the three main anomalies at Gordonbrook Hill, Lantana and May Queen (Figure 2) (ASX announcement 23 July 2019) identified chargeability anomalism at all prospects. Subsequent drilling of the Gordonbrook Hill IP anomaly (ASX announcement 16 June 2021) supported that, despite no strong sulphide mineralisation being identified, the IP method was a very good mapper of alteration. The detail provided by the drilling contributed to conflicting models for the potential style of mineralisation at Gordonbrook Hill.
Advances in the understanding of using mineral chemistry to identify and vector towards porphyry related hydrothermal deposits, including successful case studies, provided the opportunity for Corazon to potentially:
- Define the type of hydrothermal system(s) present at Mt Gilmore and their occurrence in time (relative to other geological features);
- Define the possible size and fertility of any the mineralised system(s); and
- Identify the location(s) in three-dimensions of the heat source that caused the hydrothermal mineralisation.
Rock chip and drill core samples from the May Queen, Gordonbrook Hill and Cobalt Ridge prospects (Figure 2) were submitted to CODES for testwork, sampling a variety of mineralisation/alteration styles over a strike of ~16km within the Mt Gilmore Trend.
Figure 2 – Mt Gilmore Project interpreted geology with a copper in soils geochemical image over the sedimentary/volcaniclastic basement rocks, with mineral occurrences and prospect locations.
Click here for the full ASX release
This article includes content from Corazon Mining, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
Nickel Price Update: Q1 2025 in Review
What happened to the nickel price in Q1?
Nickel price, January 2 to April 22, 2025.
Chart via Trading Economics.
While nickel has trended down for the past year, 2025 began with upward momentum. It opened the year at US$15,040 on January 2 and rose to US$16,080 before declining to close out the month at US$15,230.
Nickel prices started to gain briefly at the beginning of February, increasing to US$15,875 on February 6 before experiencing volatility until the end of the month, finishing at US$15,590 on February 28.
The start of March saw upward movement, and nickel hit a year-to-date high of US$16,720 on March 12.
Prices for the base metal remained above the US$16,000 mark until the end of March, when substantial pressures caused levels to plunge to US$14,150 on April 8.
What factors impacted nickel in Q1?
Over the past several years, oversupply has presented a significant headwind for nickel prices.
Due to heavy investment from China, Indonesia has emerged as the world's dominant nickel supplier. However, even though its refined output has remained high, Indonesia has faced a tight nickel ore market because of reduced quotas, which have compelled smelters to import record volumes from the Philippines.
A recent Filipino government proposal to follow Indonesia’s lead in banning exports of raw nickel products could disrupt the situation and introduce further challenges for refiners, impacting global supply chains.
The proposal arose amid rumors of higher mining royalties that have circulated since the start of the year. This speculation boosted nickel prices as higher production costs started to be factored into prices.
The royalty hikes were approved on April 11, and will raise the current 10 percent rate to between 14 and 19 percent, depending on the nickel price. Lower-quality nickel mattes used in battery production will incur a 2 percent royalty.
Jason Sappor, senior analyst for metals and mining research at data provider S&P Global Commodity Insights, noted that the increase will pose another challenge for the industry.
“The hike in royalty tax rates on nickel products by Indonesia’s government represents another headwind for domestic nickel producers already under pressure from rising production costs due to elevated nickel ore prices stemming from tight ore availability,” he said in comments to the Investing News Network (INN).
Indonesian nickel miners previously asked the government to reconsider the change.
In a letter to government officials, industry stakeholders stated that the increases to mining royalty levels in the country are “unrealistic and do not reflect the current state of the industry.”
Another factor that impacted the nickel industry during the first quarter of the year was the threat and eventual implementation of US tariffs against China, the world’s largest consumer of nickel.
Ewa Manthy, commodities strategist with ING, suggested tariffs will further impact a beleaguered nickel market.
“London Metal Exchange (LME) nickel has been mostly rangebound amid heightened trade tensions," she said.
"We expect US trade tariffs will put pressure on manufacturing activity in China, the world’s largest primary nickel consumer," Manthey explained to INN. "This would put additional pressure on LME nickel prices, already weighed down by oversupply, rising exchange stocks and bearish investor sentiments."
Manthy’s prediction has held true so far, with nickel prices plummeting 11.5 percent in the week following US President Donald Trump’s tariff announcement on April 2. The move has sparked fears among investors who worry that the escalating trade war will push the world into a global recession.
Even though nickel rebounded after Trump put a pause on larger reciprocal tariffs, there is still a high level of uncertainty regarding nickel demand, especially as the effective tariff rates on China have grown to 145 percent.
Tariffs set to weigh on weak nickel demand
Tariffs are unlikely to affect nickel supply in the short term; however, they could significantly impact demand. The effects will be more pronounced in the US, as tariffs will more than double the costs of goods from China for importers.
The primary destination for nickel is the production of stainless steel.
While long-term global demand is expected to remain robust, with refined nickel projected to see a 4.6 percent compound annual growth rate between 2023 and 2035, there are more immediate headwinds.
Demand for stainless steel in China’s housing sector and slower growth in home appliances has dragged down overall nickel demand in the Asian nation. Although the overall effects could be worse, government policy and stimulus have only provided marginal support. Chinese stainless steel markets were also affected as new carbon tariffs and anti-dumping duties from Europe’s carbon border adjustment mechanism came into effect.
This has led analysts to predict another year of surpluses in China’s stainless steel market, with production increasing by 10.6 percent year-on-year in the first quarter and March output coming to 3.58 million metric tons. Even so, stockpiles stand at 155,000 metric tons, down significantly from 333,000 metric tons in Q1 2024.
The size of the stainless steel market may help moderate a decline in demand from the electric vehicle battery market, which is another significant destination for nickel. According to an April 14 report from S&P Global, the fall in battery demand comes despite growing demand for electric vehicles in both China and Europe; this has been attributed to producers transitioning to nickel-free battery chemistries, particularly lithium-iron-phosphate.
Producers see a greater cost advantage in this composition, and the switch has caused demand for nickel-manganese-cobalt batteries to shrink by 19 percent from January to February.
Due to this fallout, battery precursor producer CNGR Advanced Material (SZSE:300919) said it would be pausing investment in its South Korean nickel smelting project.
The battery sector represented 11.5 percent of total nickel demand in 2024.
Nickel price forecast for 2025
The short term for nickel could very well hinge on how Trump’s tariffs affect the global economy.
“A slowdown in global economic activity would have a detrimental impact on China’s exports of nickel-containing consumer goods, denting global primary nickel demand in a market already grappling with oversupply due to expanding production in top primary nickel producers Indonesia and China,” Sappor said.
He added that weaker fundamentals will likely increase bearishness in the nickel market and ultimately work to further depress prices for the base metal on the LME.
“Considering these potential dynamics as well as further evolutions in the Trump administration’s trade tariff policies, we expect nickel prices to remain volatile in the near term,” Sappor stated.
Manthy is also pessimistic about a market turnaround in the near to medium term.
“The main downside risk to our supply and demand outlook is further downgrades to nickel demand from the electric vehicle sector, but this could be offset by no growth in Indonesian supply. The medium-term supply and demand balance is not supportive of a significant rise in nickel prices,” she said.
For investors, a bear market might provide opportunities, but the risk is that nickel prices may still have a ways to go before they bottom out. The next quarter could offer more certainty in global financial markets.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time news updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
Editorial Disclosure: The Investing News Network does not guarantee the accuracy or thoroughness of the information reported in the interviews it conducts. The opinions expressed in these interviews do not reflect the opinions of the Investing News Network and do not constitute investment advice. All readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence.
FPX Nickel
Investor Insight
As FPX Nickel strengthens its position in the critical metals space, it offers investors a compelling opportunity in the green energy transition, with the potential to be a low-cost, environmentally responsible nickel producer in a stable jurisdiction.
Overview
FPX Nickel (TSXV:FPX,OTCQB:FPOCF) is advancing its Baptiste Nickel Project in central British Columbia, targeting high-margin, long-life, low-carbon nickel production. The project offers flexibility to produce either a high-grade concentrate (60 percent nickel) for direct use in stainless steel or further refine it into battery-grade nickel sulphate, cobalt precipitate, and copper concentrate for the electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain.
Nickel is critical to EV battery production, with demand expected to grow at 5.1 percent annually through 2035, outpacing projected supply growth of 4.6 percent. With analysts forecasting a long-term supply gap due to declining output and limited new projects, FPX Nickel provides investors with exposure to a high-growth, low-carbon market with strong economic upside.
The 2023 Preliminary Feasibility Study (PFS) for Baptiste estimates an after-tax Net Present Value (NPV) of $2.01 billion and an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 18.6 percent, based on a 29-year mine life and an average annual production of 59,100 tonnes of nickel.
Baptiste’s awaruite mineralization enables a more efficient three-stage process for producing nickel sulphate, achieving over 98 percent nickel extraction in 60 minutes with lower operational costs and environmental impact compared to traditional methods. The company has published the results of its Awaruite Refinery Scoping Study, indicating strong economics with after-tax NPV (8 percent) of $445 million and IRR of 20 percent at $8.50 /lb nickel.
FPX Nickel is committed to carbon neutrality at Baptiste. The company co-founded a research program on carbon capture and storage (CCS) with Anglo-American’s DeBeers and the Government of Canada. Its subsidiary, CO2 Lock, has also achieved a breakthrough in CO2 mineralization technology at its SAM site in central British Columbia.
In January 2024, FPX Nickel secured a C$14.4 million strategic investment from Sumitomo Metal Mining to advance exploration, development, and environmental activities at Baptiste.
The company’s management team, led by Canadian Mining Hall of Fame member Dr. Peter Bradshaw and veteran geologist Rob Pease, brings a wealth of expertise to the project.
Company Highlights
- FPX Nickel is a Canadian resource company focused on exploring and developing its wholly owned advanced-development-stage Baptiste nickel project in the Decar Nickel District, central British Columbia.
- The company favorably leverages low-cost operations and mining best practices. It is advancing one of the few major nickel deposits in the mining-friendly jurisdiction of British Columbia.
- The Baptiste property is capable of producing high-grade, low-impurity nickel with minimal sulfides, making it well-suited for efficient processing. The resulting high-purity product has strong potential for direct use in both stainless steel and electric vehicle battery supply chains, supported by high projected recoveries and low estimated operating costs.
- FPX Nickel maintains a tight share structure, with strong insider alignment with management holding 14 percent of shares, and backing from three major strategic investors who collectively own 30 percent of the company.
- Baptiste offers a tremendous opportunity for lowering the carbon footprint of nickel.
- Preliminary feasibility study for Baptiste indicated an after-tax NPV of $2.01 billion and IRR of 18.6 percent at $ 8.75-pound nickel for a 29-year mine life producing an average of 59,100 tonnes per year of nickel.
- In early 2024, FPX Nickel closed a C$14.4 million private placement financing from Sumitomo Metal Mining Canada (SMCL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Metal Mining (TSE:5713)
- The company’s Awaruite Refinery Scoping Study confirmed awaruite concentrate as a highly promising feedstock for producing battery-grade nickel sulphate for the EV industry.
Key Project
Decar Nickel District - Baptiste Project
FPX Nickel’s 100 percent-owned Decar Nickel District spans over 410 square kilometers in central British Columbia, approximately 80 kilometers west of the Mt. Milligan mine. The district is home to the Baptiste project — one of the world’s largest undeveloped nickel deposits — with excellent infrastructure access, including paved and logging roads, rail, and nearby hydropower.
The Baptiste deposit contains nickel-iron alloy mineralization, hosting NI 43-101 compliant indicated resources of 2.3 billion tonnes at an average grade of 0.123 percent DTR nickel, and an additional 391 million tonnes of inferred resources at 0.115 percent DTR nickel.
In 2022, FPX completed a 2,504-meter step-out drill program at the Van target, located 6 km north of Baptiste, significantly expanding the known mineralization footprint and confirming large-scale nickel potential across the broader Decar District.
2023 Preliminary Feasibility Study (PFS)
The 2023 PFS outlined a phased development plan for Baptiste, with initial mill throughput of 108,000 tonnes per day in Phase 1, expanding to 162,000 tonnes per day in Phase 2. The project is expected to produce an average of 59,100 tonnes of nickel per year over a 29-year mine life, with a projected after-tax NPV of US$2.01 billion and an IRR of 18.6 percent at a nickel price of US$8.75/lb.
The Baptiste project is positioned as a future low-cost, low-carbon source of nickel suitable for stainless steel and battery markets. A simplified three-stage hydrometallurgical process using awaruite mineralization enables efficient production of high-grade nickel sulphate with recovery rates over 98 percent, while significantly reducing power, pressure, and reagent needs compared to traditional HPAL methods.
Downstream Integration and Refinery Study
In March 2025, FPX Nickel published the results of its Awaruite Refinery Scoping Study, outlining plans for North America’s largest nickel sulphate refinery. The proposed facility aims to produce 32,000 tonnes per year of battery-grade nickel sulphate, along with by-products including cobalt carbonate, copper cement, and ammonium sulphate.
Highlights of the study include:
- Compelling Economics: The refinery project delivers strong financial returns, with an after-tax NPV (8 percent) of $445 million and a 20 8 percent IRR at a nickel price of $8.50/lb.
- Large-Scale, Long-Life Operation: Designed for a 40-year operating life, the refinery will produce 32,000 tonnes per year of nickel in battery-grade nickel sulphate.
- High-Value Products: In addition to nickel sulphate for the EV sector, the refinery will generate valuable by-products including cobalt carbonate, copper cement, and ammonium sulphate — a key fertilizer for agriculture.
- Lowest-Decile Cost Structure: Estimated operating costs are $1,598/t Ni, or just $133/t Ni ($0.06/lb Ni) on a by-product credit basis. Total all-in production costs are projected at $8,290/t Ni ($3.76/lb Ni), placing the project in the lowest cost decile of global nickel sulphate producers.
- Ultra-Low Carbon Profile: Refining operations are projected to emit just 0.2 t CO₂/t Ni, with total cradle-to-gate emissions of 1.4 t CO₂/t Ni — dramatically lower than conventional sulphate production pathways.
Path of Awaruite nickel units from mine to EV battery
The study further highlights the opportunity to develop an integrated, low-cost, low-carbon mine-to-battery solution in Canada, with awaruite concentrate as a strategic feedstock for domestic and allied EV battery markets.
FPX also signed a non-binding MOU with JOGMEC and Prime Planet Energy & Solutions (a JV between Toyota and Panasonic) to explore collaboration on integrating Baptiste’s production with downstream processing for EV battery materials.
Pilot-Scale Success and Government Support
In early 2024, FPX completed pilot-scale hydrometallurgical testing, producing battery-grade nickel sulphate. The program, partially funded by Natural Resources Canada’s Critical Minerals R&D program, marked a key milestone in demonstrating the project’s readiness for commercialization and alignment with Canada’s strategic critical minerals priorities.Management Team
Martin Turenne – President, CEO and Director
Martin Turenne is a seasoned executive with over 15 years in the commodities sector, including significant leadership experience in mining. His expertise spans strategic management, capital markets, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance. He previously served as CFO of First Point Minerals and held roles at KPMG LLP and Methanex Corporation. Turenne is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and a member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants.
Andrew Osterloh – Vice President, Projects
Andrew Osterloh brings over two decades of experience in process engineering, metallurgy, and project management. Formerly a project director at Fluor Canada, he led feasibility studies for major base metal projects across the Americas, including work for Glencore, Teck, Newmont, and Freeport-McMoRan. He holds a BASc in Mineral Process Engineering from UBC and is a member of the Association of Professional Engineers of British Columbia.
Tim Bekhuys – SVP, Sustainability and External Relations
Tim Bekhuys is a mining sustainability expert with 40+ years of experience in environmental permitting, community engagement, and ESG leadership. He was VP of sustainability at SSR Mining and held senior roles at New Gold, successfully advancing projects like the Blackwater gold project. He has served on the boards of AME BC, the Mining Association of BC, and the Mining Association of Canada.
Felicia de la Paz – CFO and Corporate Secretary
Felicia de la Paz is a CPA with deep expertise in corporate finance and systems implementation. She started her career at KPMG, rising to senior manager, before joining Equinox Gold as corporate controller, where she led post-acquisition financial integration. She later served as VP of finance at Vida Carbon and now advises public mining companies on financial and operational systems. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from UBC.
Dr. Peter M.D. Bradshaw – Chairman
Dr. Peter Bradshaw is a renowned geologist with over 45 years of global mineral exploration experience and a member of the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame. He has played key roles in several major discoveries, including the Porgera, Kidston, and Misima gold mines, and co-founded the UBC Mineral Deposit Research Unit. Bradshaw’s past roles include senior positions at Barringer Research, Placer Dome, and Orvana Minerals.
Peter Marshall – Director
Peter Marshall is a mining engineer with 30 years of experience in mine development. Formerly VP of project development at New Gold and SVP at Terrane Metals, he played key roles in major BC projects including the feasibility and early construction of the Mt. Milligan copper-gold mine and the Blackwater gold project.
Anne Currie – Director
Anne Currie is a leading expert in mining permitting and regulatory processes in Canada, with more than 30 years of private and public sector experience. She was BC’s chief gold commissioner and a senior partner at Environmental Resources Management. Currie has guided permitting for major projects including KSM, Brucejack, Kemess Underground, and Blackwater.
James S. Gilbert – Director
James Gilbert has over 30 years of experience in investment banking and corporate strategy, with two decades focused on mining and metals. He has held senior roles at Rothschild, Gerald Metals, and Minera S.A., and has deep expertise in M&A, project finance, off-take agreements, and strategic marketing. He was a director of AQM Copper, acquired by Teck in 2016.
Kim Baird – Director
Kim Baird is a strategic advisor with deep experience in Indigenous relations, governance, and treaty implementation. As former elected Chief of the Tsawwassen First Nation, she negotiated and implemented BC’s first urban treaty, securing land and resource governance for her community. She now advises governments, businesses, and Indigenous groups across Canada.
Rob Pease – Director
Rob Pease is a geologist with more than 30 years in exploration, mine development, and corporate leadership. He was CEO of Terrane Metals and a director of Richfield Ventures—both acquired for over C$500 million. He currently serves on the boards of Pure Gold Mining and Liberty Gold.
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