Falco Resources Ltd. (TSX.V: FPC) (" Falco " or the " Company ") welcomes the report of the Bureau d'audiences publiques sur l'environnement (BAPE), in which the commission of inquiry brings to the attention of the relevant decision-making bodies various elements that require commitments, actions or modifications, with a view to issuing government authorizations. This commission examined the Falco Horne 5 mining project (the " Project ") from a sustainable development perspective, and, at this stage of the project's development, it is customary for the commission to request additional studies and analyses in order to clarify certain aspects of the Project. It is important to note that to date, more than 90% of the commission's opinions related to the Project have already been considered, planned or initiated. Falco has summarized its main findings in a summary of highlights .
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FALCO ANNOUNCES BROKERED PRIVATE PLACEMENT FOR GROSS PROCEEDS OF UP TO C$5.0 MILLION
Falco Resources Ltd. ( TSXV: FPC) ("Falco" or the "Corporation") is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Cantor Fitzgerald Canada Corporation to act as sole agent and sole bookrunner (the "Agent"), in connection with a "best efforts" private placement for aggregate gross proceeds of up to C$5,000,000 from the sale of units of the Corporation (the "Units") at a price of C$0.25 per Unit (the "Offering").
Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Corporation (each, a "Common Share") and one common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one Common Share (each, a "Warrant Share") at a price of C$0.35 at any time on or before that date which is 60 months after the closing date of the Offering.
The Corporation has granted the Agent an option, on the same terms and conditions as the Offering, exercisable until the second business day prior to the closing date of the Offering, to sell up to an additional C$1,000,000 in Units ("Agent's Option"). If the Agents' Option is exercised in full, the aggregate gross proceeds of the Offering would be C$6,000,000.
The Corporation intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of Units for the advancement of the Horne 5 Project and for working capital and general corporate purposes.
The Offering is anticipated to close on or about December 20, 2024 (the "Closing Date") and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.
The Units are being offered by way of private placement in all of the provinces of Canada to investors who qualify as "accredited investors" under Canadian securities legislation or who are otherwise exempt from prospectus delivery requirements. The Offering may also be offered in the United States to "accredited investors" (as defined in Rule 501(a) of Regulation D) pursuant to an exemption from registration under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and in such other jurisdictions outside of Canada in accordance with applicable law.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements thereunder.
The Common Shares issuable from the sale of Units to "accredited investors" in Canada or otherwise on a prospectus exempt basis will be subject to a hold period of four months plus one day from the date of issuance of the Units.
About Falco Resources Ltd.
Falco Resources Ltd. is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the Province of Québec, with extensive land holdings in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. Falco owns approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the entire camp and includes 13 former gold and base metal mine sites. Falco's principal asset is the Horne 5 Project located under the former Horne mine that was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp. is Falco's largest shareholder owning a 16.7% interest in the Corporation.
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 press release.
Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "seeks", "may", "should", "could", "will", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations including negative variations thereof of such words and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing statements, the Corporation meeting all conditions for a timely closing of the Offering, including obtaining all required approvals, and the proposed use of the proceeds of the Offering are forward-looking statements. Forward- looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, results, performance or achievements of Falco to differ materially from any future plans, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risk and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Falco's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Although Falco believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, Falco disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
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Falco Resources
Overview
Falco Resources (TSXV:FPC) is a Canadian company focused on developing gold and base metal projects in the Rouyn-Noranda region of Quebec. Rouyn-Noranda is an established mining camp with a long history of exploration and development. The Noranda mining camp has historically produced 19 million ounces (Moz) of gold and 2.9 billion pounds (Blbs) of copper, and yet it is still under-explored for gold.
Falcon’s principal property, Horne 5 project, holds 67,000 acres or nearly 67 percent of the total area of the entire mining camp and is located under the former Horne mine which produced 11.6 Moz of gold and 2.5 Blbs of copper. The 2021 feasibility study on the Horne 5 project suggests strong project economics with a total mine life of 15 years, after-tax NPV at 5 percent of US$761 million, and a payback period of 4.8 years, assuming gold prices at $1,600/oz. At the current gold prices of over $2,300/oz, the project economics will be even better.
Recent news flow including the operating lease and indemnity agreement (OLIA) with Glencore (LON:GLEN) and the Horne 5 project’s environmental impact assessment (EIA) admissibility are significant milestones in the advancement of the project towards construction. Falco is now aiming to proceed with the next steps related to obtaining government permits and financing for its Horne 5 project.
Falco Resources operating license and indemnity agreement (OLIA) with Glencore Canada will enable Falco to utilize a portion of Glencore's lands. The agreement entails establishing a technical committee comprising two representatives from Glencore and two from Falco, tasked with safeguarding the uninterrupted operations of Glencore’s Horne copper smelter. Additionally, a parallel strategic committee will be formed. Glencore will nominate one representative to join Falco's board of directors.
The successful completion of the OLIA, coupled with life-of-mine copper-zinc concentrate offtake agreements with Glencore, positions Falco to advance its Horne 5 project towards construction. The company is advancing with the permitting and financing processes for the project.
Company Highlights
- Falco Resources is a Canadian explorer of base and precious metals focused on developing its mineral properties in the Rouyn-Noranda region in Quebec, Canada.
- The company holds 67,000 acres of mining claims in the Rouyn-Noranda mining camp, accounting for nearly 67 percent of the entire mining camp.
- Rouyn-Noranda has a long history of mining and exploration. The area has established infrastructure and has been host to 50 former producers, including 20 base metal mines and 30 gold mines.
- Falco’s principal asset is the Horne 5 project which is a gold project with significant base metal by-products. It is located under the former Horne Mine which produced 11.6 Moz of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper.
- The Horne 5 is a world-class deposit containing 7.6 Moz gold equivalent in measured and indicated resources and 1.7 Moz gold equivalent in inferred resources.
- The Horne 5 project represents a robust, high-margin, 15-year underground mining project with attractive economics. The 2021 feasibility study indicates after-tax NPV at 5 percent of US$761 million and after-tax IRR of 18.9 percent.
- The operating lease and indemnity agreement (OLIA) with Glencore coupled with EIA admissibility receipt from the government body positions Falco to advance its Horne 5 project towards construction.
Key Project
Horne 5 Project
The Horne 5 project is a world-class deposit located beneath the former Horne mine in the Rouyn -Noranda mining camp. Horne mine was operated by Noranda from 1926 to 1976 and produced 11.6 Moz of gold and 2.5 Blbs of copper. The Rouyn-Noranda mining camp has a rich exploration history having produced 19 Moz of gold and 2.9 Blbs of copper. The camp has hosted 50 producers including 20 base metal mines and 30 gold mines.
The Horne 5 is a world-class deposit containing 6.1 Moz gold equivalent in proven and probable reserves, 7.6 Moz gold equivalent in measured and indicated resources, and 1.7 Moz gold equivalent in inferred resources. The project boasts strong partners including Osisko Development, Osisko Gold Royalties, Glencore, and the Quebec Government. Osisko Development is a major shareholder in Falco Resources with a 17.3 percent stake, and the Quebec Government holds close to 8 percent stake in Falco.
Aside from gold, Horne 5 has significant base metal by-products. As per the feasibility study, precious metals (gold + silver) account for 75.6 percent of the mining revenue, while base metals (copper and zinc), account for 24.3 percent of the total mine revenue.
The 2021 updated feasibility study on the Horne 5 project indicates robust project economics. The feasibility study shows the project would generate an after-tax NPV at 5 percent of US$761 million and an after-tax IRR of 18.9 percent over the 15-year mine life. The production profile would average annual production of 220,300 oz gold over the life of the mine. Further, the study suggests significant copper and zinc by-product credits from the copper and zinc production, as well as the highly automated modern operations resulting in a low projected all-in sustaining cost (AISC) of $587/oz. Horne 5’s AISC is among the first quartile of global low-cost operations.
Recent news flows including the OLIA with Glencore and the Horne 5 project’s EIA admissibility are significant milestones in the advancement of the project towards construction.
Falco Resources’ OLIA with Glencore Canada enables Falco to utilize a portion of Glencore's lands. The agreement entails establishing a technical committee comprising two representatives from Glencore and two from Falco, tasked with safeguarding the uninterrupted operations of Glencore’s Horne copper smelter. Additionally, a parallel strategic committee will be formed. Glencore will nominate one representative to join Falco's board of directors.
The successful completion of OLIA coupled with life-of-mine copper-zinc concentrate offtake agreements with Glencore positions Falco to advance its Horne 5 project towards construction. Further, the receipt of confirmation of the admissibility of its EIA for the Horne 5 project from the Ministry of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks is a significant milestone. It provides a path forward for the advancement of the project.
The company is now advancing with the permitting and financing processes for the project. The construction of the Horne 5 mine could begin by February 2025.
Management Team
Luc Lessard – President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Luc Lessard brings over 30 years of experience in the design, construction, and operation of mines. Before joining Falco, he held senior executive positions at Osisko Gold Royalties, Canadian Malartic GP (a joint venture of Agnico Eagle Mines and Yamana Gold), and Osisko Mining Corporation. At Osisko Mining Corporation, he oversaw the design, construction, and commissioning of the Canadian Malartic gold mine. Lessard has been involved in numerous surface and underground mining projects throughout his career. Lessard holds a bachelor’s degree in mining engineering from Laval University.
Anthony Glavac – Chief Financial Officer
Anthony Glavac has 20 years of experience in financial reporting, including over 14 years in the mining industry. Before joining Falco, he served as the director of financial reporting and internal controls at Dynacor Gold Mines and as the interim chief financial officer at Alderon Iron Ore. Glavac was previously the senior manager at KPMG, where he worked with a diverse portfolio of public and private companies, offering services such as audit, taxation, strategic advisory, and assistance with public offerings. Glavac is also engaged with other public companies within the mining sector.
Helene Cartier – Vice-president Environment, Sustainable Development and Community Relations
Helene Cartier possesses over 20 years of expertise in the environmental field. She began her mining career as part of the Cambior team before transitioning to the role of vice-president of environmental services and sustainable development at Osisko Mining Corporation. There, she played a pivotal role in the development and commissioning phases of the Canadian Malartic gold mine. She has served on the board of directors of several public and private companies.
Mireille Tremblay – Vice-president Legal Affairs and Corporate Secretary
Mireille Tremblay possesses more than 25 years of experience in business law, primarily in securities, mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, and governance. Before joining Falco in January 2021 as the director of legal affairs, Tremblay served as a legal advisor to clients across diverse industries, including the mining sector. She advocated for companies and investors involved in mining transactions in Africa, notably during the construction of a gold mine in Burkina Faso and in negotiations with the Ivorian government. Additionally, she has represented numerous companies, underwriters, and investors in various contexts, including public offerings and private placement financings, both domestically and internationally. Tremblay holds a law degree from the University of Montreal.
Mario Caron – Independent Chair
Mario Caron possesses extensive expertise in the mining sector, accumulating over four decades of experience in senior executive and board roles. He has garnered this wealth of knowledge through engagements in underground and open pit operations, both domestically and abroad. Caron has served as CEO of public companies and has experience securing mining licenses and various permits in numerous jurisdictions. Caron earned his Bachelor of Engineering in mining, at McGill University.
Alexander Dann – Non-independent Director
Alexander Dann, a chartered professional accountant, has served with multinational public enterprises on financial operations and strategic planning. He brings more than 25 years of experience within the mining and manufacturing domains. He was chief financial officer of The Flowr Corporation, where he led the company towards its public listing on the TSXV. He also served as the CFO of Avion Gold and Era Resources, contributing significantly until their acquisitions by Endeavour Mining and The Sentient Group, respectively. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from L’Universite Laval in Quebec City.
Claude Dufresne – Independent Director
Claude Dufresne has over three decades of experience in the mining industry. He has served in leadership roles at companies such as Niobay Metals and IAMGOLD. He was the founder of a metals company, Camet Metallurgy, which specialized in the sale and marketing of various metals. He obtained a diploma in mining engineering with a specialty in mineral processing from Universite Laval in 1991.
Paola Farnesi – Independent Director
Paola Farnesi has over 30 years of experience in corporate finance, financial reporting, M&A, and risk management. She is currently vice-president and treasurer of Domtar Corporation. Before this, she held various senior executive positions at Domtar including vice-president, internal audit. Before joining Domtar, Farnesi worked at Ernst & Young. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Graduate degree in Public Accountancy from McGill University. She is a member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Quebec and has earned the ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.
Chantal Sorel – Independent Director
Chantal Sorel is a corporate director with over 30 years' experience in general management with full profit & loss responsibility, project financing, project management, operations, strategic development, business development, mergers and acquisitions. She was executive vice-president and managing director at Capital at SNC-Lavalin from 2014 to 2019, where she over saw multibillion dollar projects. Since April 2020, Sorel has served as an advisor to the Montréal Aeroport for the development and delivery of the city's projects’ portfolio valued at $2.5 billion. Sorel has a degree in architecture from Université de Montréal and a master's degree in project management from Université du Québec à Montréal.
This article was written in collaboration with Couloir Capital.
Falco Horne 5 Mining Project Bape Report
In addition, more than 50% of the commission's opinions suggested updating various existing studies. Falco wishes to reiterate that these updates and analyses are already included in its project planning and will be submitted to government authorities at the appropriate time, as part of the Quebec regulatory process for the Falco Horne 5 project.
In terms of content, the report:
- Sheds light on Rouyn-Noranda's current specific socio-community and health context.
- States that the methodology and the various approaches used to produce the predictive model are appropriate and comply with best practices in the field, and that the estimates of seismic potential are therefore fully adequate.
- Emphasizes that the Project would contribute to the Plan québécois pour la valorisation des minéraux critiques et stratégiques 2020-2025 and, in a real but moderate way, to Quebec's energy transition and decarbonization.
- Acknowledges that the Project could significantly stimulate and strengthen the regional and provincial mining industry, and notes that it could also stimulate innovation and consolidate the activities of both regional and Quebec companies.
Application of the precautionary principle: at the heart of the commission's opinions
Falco welcomes the continued application of the precautionary principle in the report's conclusions and sees this as an opportunity to further improve the Project, by continuing the work already begun, in close collaboration with stakeholders, local communities and the relevant authorities.
Falco would also like to point out that many of the recommendations made by the commission in its report are also addressed to the Quebec government, the City of Rouyn-Noranda and other partners, and that more than a third of the recommendations offer avenues of reflection for the mining industry as a whole, which could contribute to its evolution in a more sustainable development perspective. With the start-up anticipated for 2030, Falco has the time it needs to meet the expectations expressed.
Health and safety: a priority
With the health and safety of Rouyn-Noranda's citizens at the heart of Falco's priorities, a committee of experts will be set up in January 2025 to determine the acceptable parameters and operating conditions to ensure the cohabitation of the Project and the Radio-Oncology Center of the Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux de l'Abitibi-Témiscamingue (CISSSAT).
Several discussion groups have been or are in the process of being set up. These consultation mechanisms will give the community the opportunity to actively participate in the search for appropriate solutions. The commission also recommended that the Minister include in his decree the Integrity Program - residences and infrastructures , a Falco initiative that was presented to the public in the fall of 2024.
Hélène Cartier, Vice-President, Environment, Sustainable Development and Community Relations, commented: " Given the project's stage of development, we expected the findings of the commission and fully accept the challenge of integrating its main conclusions, which reflect the input of the groups participating in the hearings. These high expectations also reflect our own commitment to environmental and social excellence. Our vision has always been to seamlessly integrate our project into the community. We will work with the Ministère de l'Environnement, de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs (MELCCFP) to complete the environmental analysis in order to obtain the decree. "
Luc Lessard, President and Chief Executive Officer added: " In light of the BAPE report, we will continue our efforts to improve the Horne 5 project so that it meets the public's expectations. We are convinced of the lasting and significant benefits for the entire region. We will take the time to analyze the report in detail with our experts, but we are pleased to have passed one of the last stages of the environmental assessment process. BAPE's contribution is just one of the elements intended to inform the recommendation that the Minister of the MELCCFP will make to the Council of Ministers. "
Falco is confident that, with appropriate adjustments and ongoing collaboration with stakeholders over the next few years, solutions can be found that will ultimately enable the Project to be completed while meeting environmental and social expectations.
About Falco Resources
Falco is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the province of Quebec, with an extensive portfolio of properties in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue greenstone belt. Falco holds rights to approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the camp as a whole and includes 13 former gold and base metal mining sites. Falco's main asset is the Horne 5 project located beneath the former Horne mine, which was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp. is Falco's largest shareholder, with a 16% interest in the Company.
For more information, please contact:
Hélène Cartier
Vice-President, Environment, Sustainable Development and Community Relations
514-216-8611
hcartier@falcores.com
Luc Lessard
President and Chief Executive Officer, Falco Resources
514 261-3336
info@falcores.com
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "seeks", "may", "should", "could", "will", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations including negative variations thereof of such words and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing statements, the Corporation obtaining all required governmental and regulatory approvals, are forward-looking statements. Forward- looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, results, performance or achievements of Falco to differ materially from any future plans, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risk and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Falco's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Although Falco believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, Falco disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
FALCO ANNOUNCES CLOSING OF BROKERED PRIVATE PLACEMENT
/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES /
TSXVÂ - FPC
Falco Resources Ltd. (TSXV: FPC) (" Falco " or the " Corporation ") is pleased to announce the closing of its previously announced "best efforts" brokered private placement (the " Offering ") with Cantor Fitzgerald Canada Corporation, acting as sole agent and sole bookrunner (the " Agent "). Pursuant to the Offering, Falco has issued an aggregate of 24,000,000 units of the Corporation (the " Units ") at a price of C$0.25 per Unit, for aggregate gross proceeds of C$6,000,000 .
Each Unit consists of one common share (each, a " Common Share ") of the Corporation and one common share purchase warrant (each, a " Warrant "). Each Warrant is exercisable to acquire one Common Share at a price of C$0.35 at any time on or before that date which is 60 months after the closing date of the Offering.
The Corporation intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of Units for the advancement of the Horne 5 Project and for working capital and general corporate purposes.
In connection with the closing of the Offering, the Corporation paid the Agent a cash commission totaling C$324,000 and has issued the Agent 1,152,000Â non-transferrable compensation warrants (each, a " Broker Warrant "). Each Broker Warrant entitles the Agent to purchase one Common Share of the Corporation at an exercise price of C$0.25 per Broker Warrant at any time for a term of 24 months following the date of issuance.
All Common Shares and Warrants issued pursuant to the Offering are subject to a hold period of four months plus one day from the date of issuance of such securities under applicable securities laws in Canada .
A related party of the Corporation subscribed for 1,790,000 Units under the Offering. A transaction with a related party of the Corporation constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (" MI 61-101 "). The Corporation is relying on exemptions from the formal valuation requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to section 5.5(a) and the minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to section 5.7(1)(a) in respect of such related party participation as the fair market value of the transaction, insofar as it involves interested parties, does not exceed 25% of the Corporation's market capitalization. The Corporation did not file a material change report 21 days prior to closing of the Offering, as the related party's participation had not been confirmed at that time and the Company wished to close the transaction as soon as practicable for sound business reasons.
This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in the United States or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. The securities have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements thereunder.
About Falco
Falco Resources Ltd. is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the Province of Québec, with extensive land holdings in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. Falco owns approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the entire camp and includes 13 former gold and base metal mine sites. Falco's principal asset is the Horne 5 Project located under the former Horne mine that was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp. is Falco's largest shareholder owning a 16% interest in the Corporation.
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 press release .
Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect to anticipated business plans or strategies. Statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "seeks", "may", "should", "could", "will", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations including negative variations thereof of such words and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing statements, the proposed use of the proceeds of the Offering is a forward-looking statement. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual plans, results, performance or achievements of Falco to differ materially from any future plans, results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. These risk and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Falco's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca , as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Although Falco believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. Except where required by applicable law, Falco disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
SOURCE Falco Resources Ltd.
View original content: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/December2024/20/c9019.html
News Provided by Canada Newswire via QuoteMedia
Falco Announces Election of Directors and Closing of Its Senior Debt Transactions
Falco Resources Ltd. (TSX.V: FPC) (" Falco " or the " Corporation ") announces that the five (5) nominees listed in the management information circular dated November 4, 2024, were elected as directors of Falco.
Detailed results of the vote for the election of directors held at the annual and special meeting of shareholders on December 10, 2024, are set out below:
ITEM N o 1 Nominee | Votes Cast FOR | Percentage (%) of Votes Cast FOR | Votes AGAINST | Percentage (%) of Votes  AGAINST |
Mario Caron | 117,113,938 | 99.637 | 426,433 | 0.363 |
Alexander Dann | 109,446,599 | 93.114 | 8,093,772 | 6.886 |
Paola Farnesi | 117,103,520 | 99.628 | 436,851 | 0.372 |
Luc Lessard | 117,473,626 | 99.943 | 66,745 | 0.057 |
Chantal Sorel | 113,119,685 | 96.239 | 4,420,686 | 3.761 |
Appointment and Remuneration of Auditor
PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, was appointed as independent auditor of the Corporation for the ensuing year, with the following results:
ITEM N o 2 | Votes cast FOR | Percentage (%) of Votes Cast FOR | Votes WITHHELD | Percentage (%) of Votes  WITHHELD |
Appointment and Remuneration of Auditor | 122,925,232 | 99.311 | 852,564 | 0.689 |
Long-Term Incentive Plan Resolution
Shareholders approved the ordinary resolution with respect to the approval of the Corporation's existing rolling 10% long-term incentive plan (" LTIP "). The results are as follows:
ITEM N o 3 | Votes Cast FOR | Percentage (%) of Votes Cast FOR | Votes AGAINST | Percentage (%) of Votes  AGAINST |
Ordinary resolution to approve the LTIP | 101,288,332 | 86.173 | 16,252,039 | 13.827 |
Osisko Amendments Resolution
The majority of the disinterested shareholders approved the ordinary resolution with respect to the amendment of the Corporation's existing convertible secured senior loan (the " Osisko Loan ") with Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd (" Osisko ") and the issuance of 17,690,237 warrants of the Corporation to Osisko, each exercisable at any time from and after January 1, 2025 for one common share of Falco (each a " Common Share ") at an exercise price of $0.58 per Common Share and expiring on December 31, 2025 (the " Osisko  Warrants "). The results are as follows:
ITEM N o 4 | Votes Cast  FOR | Percentage (%) of Votes  Cast FOR | Votes AGAINST | Percentage (%) of Votes  AGAINST |
Ordinary resolution of disinterested shareholders to approve the amendment of the Osisko Loan and the issuance of the Osisko Warrants | 70,256,713 | 99.844 | 109,858 | 0.156 |
Closing of Senior Debt Transactions
The Corporation also confirms that the transactions previously announced on October 7, 2024, with each of Osisko and Glencore Canada Corporation (" Glencore ") have successfully closed on the date hereof and will be effective as of December 31, 2024 (the " Effective Date ")
Extension of the Maturity Date of the Osisko Loan
In consideration for the extension of the maturity date of the Osisko Loan, the Osisko Loan was amended with effect as of the Effective Date in order for (i) the accrued interest on the existing Osisko Loan up to the Effective Date to be capitalized such that the principal amount of the amended Osisko Loan is $23,881,821, (ii) the conversion price to be lowered from $0.50 to $0.45 per Common Share, and (iii) the interest rate to be increased from 8% to 9%. The 10,664,324 common share purchase warrants of the Corporation currently held by Osisko, each exercisable for one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.65 per Common Share, will remain outstanding in accordance with their terms until their expiry on December 31, 2024. In consideration for the extension of the maturity date of the Osisko Loan, the Corporation will issue to Osisko, on the Effective Date, 17,690,237 Osisko Warrants each exercisable at any time from and after January 1, 2025, for one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.58 per Common Share and expiring on December 31, 2025.
Extension of the Maturity Date of the Glencore Debenture
In consideration for the extension of the maturity date of the Corporation's existing senior secured convertible debenture entered into with Glencore (the " Glencore Debenture "), the Glencore Debenture was amended with effect as of the Effective Date (the " Amended Glencore Debenture ") in order for (i) the accrued interest on the existing Glencore Debenture up to the Effective Date to be capitalized such that the principal amount of the Amended Glencore Debenture is $13,985,960, (ii) the conversion price to be increased from $0.36 to $0.37 per Common Share, and (iii) the interest rate to be increased from 9% to 10%. The 15,061,158 common share purchase warrants currently held by Glencore will remain outstanding in accordance with their terms until their expiry on December 31, 2024. In consideration for the extension of the maturity date of the Glencore Debenture, the Corporation will issue to Glencore, on the Effective Date, 19,424,944 common share purchase warrants (the " New Glencore Warrants "), each exercisable at any time from and after January 1, 2025, at an exercise price of (i) $0.38 per Common Share for 15,061,158 of the New Glencore Warrants and (ii) $0.42 per Common Share for the remaining 4,363,786 New Glencore Warrants, with the New Glencore Warrants expiring on December 31, 2025.
The New Glencore Warrants and the Amended Glencore Debenture will provide that unless shareholder approval from disinterested shareholders of the Corporation has been obtained in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws and TSX Venture Exchange policies, the holder of the New Glencore Warrants and Amended Glencore Debenture will not be permitted to exercise any portion of the New Glencore Warrants or convert any portion of the Amended Glencore Debenture if, following such exercise or conversion, as applicable, the holder thereof and its affiliates would own, directly or indirectly, more than 19.9% of the outstanding Common Shares.
The Common Shares issuable upon conversion of the Osisko Loan and the Glencore Debenture will be subject to a hold period of four months from the Effective Date, in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws. The Osisko Warrants and the New Glencore Warrants (and the underlying Common Shares issuable pursuant thereto) will be subject to a hold period of four months from the Effective Date, in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws.
About Falco
Falco Resources Ltd. is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the Province of Québec, with extensive land holdings in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. Falco owns approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the entire camp and includes 13 former gold and base metal mine sites. Falco's principal asset is the Falco Horne 5 Project located under the former Horne mine that was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp is Falco's largest shareholder owning a 16.7% interest in the Corporation.
For further information, please contact:
Luc Lessard
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
514-261-3336
info@falcores.com
Anthony Glavac
Chief Financial Officer
514-604-9310
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 press release.
Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "seeks", "may", "should", "could", "will", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations including negative variations thereof of such words and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. These statements are made as of the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Falco's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Although the Corporation believes the forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations and assumptions in such statements will prove to be correct. Consequently, the Corporation cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Corporation are not guarantees of future results or performance and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements.
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Falco Advances Towards Development of the Horne 5 Project
Falco Resources Ltd. (TSX.V:FPC) (" Falco " or the " Corporation ") is pleased to provide a corporate update on its flagship Horne 5 Project located in Rouyn-Noranda, Québec (the " Falco Horne 5 Project " or the " Project "). Following the completion of the public hearing process with the Office of Public Hearings on the Environment (" BAPE "), Falco continues to file documentation and provide responses to the BAPE, in view of the completion of its report, which is due for submission to the Minister of the Environment, the Fight Against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks by December 26, 2024. Also, with the continued strength in gold and copper, Falco will work towards updating the 2021 Feasibility Study, which utilized a gold price of US$1,600 and a copper price of US$3.25lb, with targeted completion for H1-2025.
Mr. Luc Lessard, President and Chief Executive Officer commented: " 2024 has been extraordinary for Falco, commencing early in the year with the execution of the Operating License and Indemnity Agreement (" OLIA ") with Glencore, followed in short order by the admissibility of the Project's Environmental Impact Assessment which provided the path forward for the advancement of the Project. The Corporation expects to obtain a ministerial decree authorizing the Project in H1-2025, which would put Falco in the enviable position of having one of the few permitted large-scale polymetallic gold projects ready to be developed in North America."
Mr. Lessard added: " Since 2015, Falco has delineated a reserve of over 6.1M oz AuEq with an additional 3.2M oz AuEq in resource (all categories), making it one of the largest gold resources in Québec not controlled by a producer. The 2021 Feasibility Study, while benefiting from significant economic returns, does not capture the rapidly changing gold, copper and zinc environment. The planned update for H1-2025 will provide a much clearer picture as to the full potential of the Project."
FALCO HORNE 5 PROJECT OVERVIEW
World-Class Deposit
- Massive sulphide polymetallic deposit (Au, Ag, Cu, Zn)
- High-volume underground mining favoring the best modern extraction technologies
- Annual production (approximately 220,000 oz Au / 330,000 oz AuEq) over a 15-year mine life
- 2021 Feasibility Study reflects robust financial parameters based on a gold price of US$1,600/oz and is highly sensitive to the gold price:
- Each increase in the gold price by US$100/oz provides an approximate increase of US$100 million in the after-tax net present value (" NPV ") of the Project ( see sensitivity tables included in the 2021 Feasibility Study )
- The 2021 Feasibility Study will be updated in H1-2025 to reflect the full potential of the Project in this dynamic gold environment
- Poised to be a low-cost gold producer, with all-in sustaining costs (" AISC ") below US$600/oz (net of by-product credits)
- Meaningful critical minerals exposure: Falco will be one of the largest producers of copper (247M lbs) and zinc (1,190M lbs) in Québec
- Significant high potential exploration upside with +67,000 ha owned around the Project
Real Infrastructure Advantage
- Significant infrastructure in Rouyn-Noranda, including roads, railways, hydro-electric power distribution system and qualified mining labor expertise & supplier base
- Adjacent to the Project is a copper smelting facility owned by Glencore Canada Corporation (" Glencore ")
- Opportunity to leverage existing infrastructure, including the former Quemont shaft
Strong Stakeholder Relationships
- Strong partners and positive stakeholder relations
- A silver stream agreement with Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd to help fund Project capex (up to C$180 million with C$35 million drawn)
- OLIA with Glencore sets out the terms upon which Falco can utilize a portion of Glencore's lands to develop and operate the Project
- Life of mine copper and zinc concentrate offtake agreements with Glencore
About Falco
Falco Resources Ltd. is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the Province of Québec, with extensive land holdings in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. Falco owns approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the entire camp and includes 13 former gold and base metal mine sites. Falco's principal asset is the Falco Horne 5 Project located under the former Horne mine that was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp is Falco's largest shareholder owning a 16.7% interest in the Corporation.
For further information, please contact:
Luc Lessard
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director
514-261-3336
info@falcores.com
Anthony Glavac
Chief Financial Officer
514-604-9310
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 press release.
Cautionary  Statement  on  Forward-Looking  Information
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws in particular Falco's ability to obtain receipt of permits and approvals required to develop the Horne 5 Project and the ability of Falco to efficiently develop and operate the Horne 5 Project based on the terms of the Operating License and Indemnity Agreement concluded with Glencore Canada Corporation. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "seeks", "may", "should", "could", "will", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations including negative variations thereof of such words and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. These statements are made as of the date of this news release. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing statements, forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding the projections and assumptions of the 2021 Feasibility Study, including, without limitation: estimated annual production, NPV, AISC, resources and reserves, mine life and potential production from the Horne 5 Property as envisioned by the mine plan; economic assumptions and sensitivities and other operational and economic projections with respect to the Horne 5 Project. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the risk factors set out in Falco's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca, as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Although the Corporation believes the forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations and assumptions in such statements will prove to be correct. Consequently, the Corporation cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Corporation are not guarantees of future results or performance and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements.
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Falco Announces Extension of Its Senior Debts
Falco Resources Ltd. (TSX.V: FPC) (" Falco " or the " Corporation ") is pleased to announce that the Corporation has entered into binding agreements (i) with Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd (" Osisko ") in order to extend the maturity date of the Corporation's existing convertible secured senior loan (the " Osisko Loan ") from December 31, 2024 to December 31, 2025; and (ii) with Glencore Canada Corporation (" Glencore ") in order to extend the maturity date of the Corporation's existing senior secured convertible debenture (the " Glencore Debenture ") from December 31, 2024 to December 31, 2025.
Luc Lessard, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Corporation commented: " The concurrent extensions of the Corporation's senior debts demonstrate the strong relationship and long-standing support of Osisko and Glencore to Falco and the development of the Horne 5 Project. Such extensions provide the Corporation with additional flexibility to pursue the permitting and development of this project".
Amendments to  the  Osisko  Loan
In consideration for the extension of the maturity date of the Osisko Loan, the Osisko Loan will also be amended effective as of December 31, 2024 in order for (i) the accrued interest on the existing Osisko Loan to be capitalized such that the principal amount of the amended Osisko Loan will be approximately $23,881,821, (ii) the conversion price to be lowered from $0.50 to $0.45 per Common Share, and (iii) the interest rate to be increased from 8% to 9% (collectively, the " Osisko  Loan  Amendments "). The 10,664,324 warrants of the Corporation currently held by Osisko (the " Existing Osisko Warrants "), each exercisable for one common share of Falco (the " Common Shares ") at an exercise price of $0.65 per Common Share, will remain outstanding in accordance with their terms until their expiry on December 31, 2024. In consideration for the extension of the maturity date of the Osisko Loan, the Corporation will issue to Osisko, on December 31, 2024, 17,690,237 warrants (the " New Osisko Warrants "), each exercisable at any time from and after January 1, 2025, for one Common Share at an exercise price of $0.58 per Common Share and expiring on December 31, 2025.
Amendments to  the  Glencore  Debenture
In consideration for the extension of the maturity date of the Glencore Debenture, the Glencore Debenture will also be amended effective as of December 31, 2024 (the " Amended Glencore Debenture ") in order for (i) the accrued interest on the existing Glencore Debenture up to December 31, 2024 to be capitalized such that the principal amount of the amended Glencore Debenture will be approximately $13,985,960, (ii) the conversion price to be increased to $0.37 per Common Share (from $0.36), and (iii) the interest rate to be increased from 9% to 10% (collectively, the " Glencore Debenture Amendments "). The 15,061,158 warrants of the Corporation currently held by Glencore (the " Existing Glencore Warrants ") will remain outstanding in accordance with their terms until their expiry on December 31, 2024. In consideration for the extension of the maturity date of the Glencore Debenture, the Corporation will issue to Glencore, on December 31, 2024, 19,424,944 warrants (the " New Glencore Warrants "), each exercisable at any time from and after January 1, 2025, at an exercise price of (i) $0.38 per Common Share for 15,061,158 of the New Glencore Warrants and (ii) $0.42 per Common Share for the remaining 4,363,786 New Glencore Warrants, and expiring on December 31, 2025.
The New Glencore Warrants and the Amended Glencore Debenture will provide that unless shareholder approval from disinterested shareholders of the Corporation has been obtained in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws and TSX Venture Exchange policies, the holder of the New Glencore Warrants and Amended Glencore Debenture will not be permitted to exercise any portion of the New Glencore Warrants or convert any portion of the Amended Glencore Debenture if, following such exercise or conversion, as applicable, the holder thereof and its affiliates would own, directly or indirectly, more than 19.9% of the outstanding Common Shares.
The Osisko Loan Amendments and the issuance of the New Osisko Warrants (the " Osisko Transactions ") are considered "related party transactions" under Regulation 61-101 respecting Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (" Regulation 61-101 "). The Osisko Transactions are exempt from the requirements to obtain a formal valuation pursuant to section 5.5(b) of Regulation 61-101. However, Falco is required to obtain minority approval for the Osisko Transactions as none of the exemptions contained under Regulation 61-101 are currently available to the Corporation.
Closing of the Osisko Transactions is conditional upon (i) obtaining minority approval of the shareholders of the Corporation, excluding the Common Shares held by Osisko Development Corp., to be sought at the special meeting of shareholders of the Corporation to be held on December 10, 2024 (the " Shareholders' Meeting "), (ii) approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, and (iii) concurrent closing of the Glencore Debenture Amendments and the issuance of the New Glencore Warrants on the terms described herein.
Closing of the Glencore Debenture Amendments and the issuance of the New Glencore Warrants is conditional upon (i) approval of the TSX Venture Exchange, and (ii) concurrent closing of the Osisko Transactions on the terms described herein. Subject to satisfaction of such conditions, closing of the Osisko Loan Amendments and the Glencore Debenture Amendments, and closing of the Osisko Transactions is expected to occur concurrently on December 31, 2024. Additional information will be included in the management proxy circular to be filed at www.sedarplus.ca.
Prior to the transactions contemplated by this press release, Osisko held the Osisko Loan in the principal amount of $20,484,195, which is convertible into 40,968,390 Common Shares and also held 10,664,324 Existing Osisko Warrants, representing approximately 15.6% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially diluted basis assuming the conversion in full of the Osisko Loan and the exercise in full of the 10,664,324 Existing Osisko Warrants. Immediately following closing, on a partially diluted basis assuming the conversion in full of the Osisko Loan and the exercise in full of the New Osisko Warrants, Osisko would have beneficial ownership of, or control and direction over 70,760,950 Common Shares, representing approximately 20.2% of the Common Shares issued and outstanding. Osisko holds approximately 40% of the issued and outstanding equity interests of Osisko Development Corp, which has beneficial ownership of, or control and direction over 46,885,240 Common Shares and 8,802,222 warrants of the Corporation, representing approximately 19.3% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially diluted basis assuming the exercise in full of the 8,802,222 warrants.
About  Falco
Falco Resources Ltd. is one of the largest mineral claim holders in the Province of Québec, with extensive land holdings in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt. Falco owns approximately 67,000 hectares of land in the Noranda Mining Camp, which represents 67% of the entire camp and includes 13 former gold and base metal mine sites. Falco's principal asset is the Falco Horne 5 Project located under the former Horne mine that was operated by Noranda from 1927 to 1976 and produced 11.6 million ounces of gold and 2.5 billion pounds of copper. Osisko Development Corp is Falco's largest shareholder owning a 16.7% interest in the Corporation.
For  further  information,  please  contact:
Luc Lessard
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director 514-261-3336
info@falcores.com
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in  the  policies  of  the  TSX  Venture  Exchange)  accepts  responsibility  for  the  adequacy  or  accuracy of this press release.
Cautionary  Statement  on  Forward-Looking  Information
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (together, "forward looking statements")  within  the  meaning  of  applicable  securities  laws.  Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as "plans", "expects", "seeks", "may", "should", "could", "will", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", or variations including negative variations thereof of such words and phrases that refer to certain actions, events or results that may, could, would, might or will occur or be taken or achieved. These statements are made as of the date of this news release. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing statements, the statements relating to the Osisko  Loan  Amendments,  the  Glencore  Debenture  Amendments,  as  well  as  the issuance of the New Glencore Warrants and New Osisko Warrants are forward-looking statements and will not be completed until approved by the TSX Venture Exchange and until appropriate shareholder approval is obtained with respect to Osisko Loan Amendments and the issuance of the Osisko Warrants. There is no assurance that the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange to such transactions  will  be  obtained  nor  that  shareholder  approval  with  respect  to  Osisko  Loan  Amendments  and  the  issuance of the  Osisko  Warrants  will  be  obtained.  Forward-looking  statements  involve known and unknown  risks,  uncertainties  and  other  factors  which may cause the actual results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied  by  such  forward-looking  statements.  These  risks  and  uncertainties  include,  but  are  not  limited  to,  the  risk  factors set out in Falco's annual and/or quarterly management discussion and analysis and in other of its public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca , as well as all assumptions regarding the foregoing. Although the Corporation believes the forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, it can give no assurance that the expectations and assumptions in such statements will prove to be correct. Consequently, the Corporation cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Corporation are not guarantees of future results or performance and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements.
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Heliostar Files Technical Reports on Mines and Development Project Recently Acquired in Mexico
Company Overview on La Colorada:
- La Colorada Operations show US$25.9M NPV5, 11.9% IRR, US$53.9M CAPEX and 287k total ounces produced at a US$2,000/oz gold price
- New mineral reserve at Junkyard Stockpile supports restart of mining at La Colorada that has commenced this month
- El Crestón expansion at La Colorada is expected to produce over 50,000 ounces of gold per year
- Current drill program (five drill rigs) is targeting lower CAPEX and increased production for updated technical report planned for mid-2025
Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5.0% Discount Rate (US$M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
2,000 1 | 54.92 | 25.93 | 11.9 | 2.2 | 1.4 |
2,600 2 | 158.32 | 110.03 | 34.7 | 1.4 | 2.3 |
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- Base Gold Price assumption used in the La Colorada technical report.
- Comparison gold price.
Company Overview on San Agustin:
- San Agustin Operations show US$12.7M NPV5, 156.1% IRR, US$4.2M CAPEX and 45k total ounces produced at a US$2,100/oz gold price
- Receiving the Phase 4 Permit will allow for strong cash flow generation from San Agustin including funding San Agustin rehabilitation costs
- Upon receipt of permit, expected in 2025, the Company will undertake drilling to potentially extend the mine life from oxide gold production and is reviewing the projects sulphide potential
Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5.0% Discount Rate (US$M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
2,100 1 | 14.83 | 12.67 | 156.1 | 0.8 | 1.1 |
2,600 2 | 28.84 | 25.22 | 365.0 | 0.3 | 2.2 |
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- Base Gold Price assumption used in the San Agustin technical report..
- Comparison gold price.
Company Overview on San Antonio:
- San Antonio Project Preliminary Economic Assessment( PEA) shows US$398.7M NPV5, 40.7% IRR, US$131.3M CAPEX and 1.1 million total ounces produced at a US$1,900/oz gold price
- Mineral resource of 1.6 million ounces of gold at San Antonio project creates attractive optionality with high grade, low CAPEX, sub-US$1,100/oz ASIC and long mine life
Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5% Discount Rate (US$M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
1,900 1 | 651.21 | 398.66 | 40.7 | 2.0 | 5.2 |
2,600 2 | 1,135.42 | 715.05 | 58.8 | 1.5 | 8.3 |
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- Base Gold Price assumption used in the San Antonio technical report..
- Comparison gold price.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 13, 2025) - Heliostar Metals Ltd. (TSXV: HSTR) (OTCQX: HSTXF) (FSE: RGG1) ("Heliostar" or the "Company") advises that it has filed technical reports on the La Colorada Operations, the San Agustin Operations and the San Antonio Project. The technical reports were prepared on material projects acquired in 2024.
The technical reports are available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and on the Company's website (www.heliostarmetals.com).
Heliostar CEO, Charles Funk, commented "Heliostar has filed technical reports for three of its recently acquired Mexican projects. At La Colorada, we have restarted production this month with 2025 focused on the newly defined Junkyard Stockpile and then expanding to over 50,000 ounces of gold per year with the El Crestón expansion. At San Agustin, the Phase 4 Permit area can generate strong cash flow and reduce closure costs. More importantly receiving expansion permits will provide the trigger to restart drilling, targeting further mine life expansion at the mine which has upside oxide and sulphide potential. The PEA at San Antonio demonstrates a rare, 1.0 Au g/t heap leach deposit with low CAPEX, low ASIC and a long mine life. It provides attractive optionality for our long-term growth. The combined projects have positive economics at conservative gold prices and significantly stronger returns at today's gold prices. In 2025, the Company will focus on reducing front-end capital requirements for El Crestón to improve the project economics for the expansion decision and will continue to advance Ana Paula through its Feasibility Study."
LA COLORADA MINE
Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates and a life-of-mine (LOM) plan were completed for the 100% owned La Colorada Operations (La Colorada) located in the state of Sonora, Mexico. The LOM plan in the La Colorada technical report is based on continued production from three sequentially-staged deposits: the Junkyard Stockpile (La Chatarrera), the El Crestón pit expansion (El Crestón), and the Veta Madre pit expansion (Veta Madre). The La Colorada technical report that is the subject of this news release supersedes a technical report that was prepared on the La Colorada Mine by Argonaut Gold Inc., which had an effective date of October 1, 2021.
The La Colorada technical report includes first-time disclosure of a Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimate for the Junkyard and updated Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates for El Crestón and Veta Madre. The LOM plan indicates a Probable Mineral Reserve of 377k ounces of gold exploited with two years of pre-strip and 4.1 years of mine life, from the effective date of the La Colorada technical report, at production rates up to the 13,000 t/d nameplate throughput capacity of the mine at an all-in sustaining capital cost of US$1,763/oz Au.
Key Highlights
La Colorada - Mineral Reserve & Production Highlights | |
Mineral Reserves (kt) 1 | 18,159 |
Gold Grade (g/t Au) | 0.65 |
Contained Gold (koz Au) | 377 |
Processing Rate (t/d average) 2 | 8,292 |
Life of Mine (years) 3 | 4.1 |
Annual Production (oz Au per year, 2026) | 14,564 |
Annual Production (oz Au per year, average 2027-2030) | 64,309 |
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- Probable Mineral Reserve.
- Processing throughput rates vary over the Life of Mine, up to the nameplate capacity of about 13,000 t/d.
- Excludes 2 years of metals production from the Junkyard (2025) and from near-surface ore extracted during pre-stripping (2026).
La Colorada - Financial Highlights | |
Average Cash Costs (US$ per oz AuEq) 1 | 1,549 |
Average AISC (US$ per oz AuEq) 1 | 1,763 |
Total Initial Capital Cost (US$M) 2 | 53.9 |
Total Sustainable Capital Cost (US$M) | 9.8 |
Total LOM Capital Cost (US$M ) | 63.7 |
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- Non-International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) measures. All-in sustaining costs (AISC) were first issued by the World Gold Council (WGC) in 2013. In light of new accounting standards and to support further consistency of application, the WGC published an updated Guidance note in 2018.
- Reflects capital investment before first metals production from El Crestón. Further expenditure will be required after first metals production for pre-stripping. A maximum negative cash flow of US$139 million is projected at the base assumptions used in the La Colorada technical report.
 La Colorada Return Estimates based on Gold Price1 | ||
 |  US$2,000/oz 2 |  US$2,600/oz 3 |
 IRR (%) |  11.9 |  34.7 |
 NPV @ 5.0% discount (US$M) |  25.9 |  110.0 |
 NPV @ 7.5% discount (US$M) |  15.0 |  91.2 |
 Payback (years) |  2.2 |  1.4 |
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- All other key parameters set at base assumptions, including the 5% discount rate used. More detailed analysis is presented in the La Colorada technical report.
- Base Gold Price assumption used in the La Colorada technical report.
- Comparison gold price with reference to US$2,687.45 London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) PM gold price on trading day January 10, 2025.
La Colorada Mineral Resource Estimates
Mineral Resources were estimated at La Colorada for three deposits: El Crestón, Veta Madre and the Junkyard, and are summarized in the following tables by deposit.
El Crestón Mineral Resource Statement
Category | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t) | Silver Grade (g/t) | Gold Contained Metal (koz) | Silver Contained Metal (koz) |
Indicated | 12,393 | 0.91 | 11.94 | 364 | 4,758 |
Inferred | 202 | 0.70 | 6.07 | 5 | 39 |
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Notes to accompany El Crestón Mineral Resource table:
- Mineral Resources are reported insitu, using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards, and have an effective date of 31 October 2024. The Qualified Person for the estimate is Mr. David Thomas, P.Geo., Associate Mineral Resource Estimator with Mine Technical Services.
- Mineral Resources are reported inclusive of Mineral Reserves. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.
- Mineral Resource estimates use the end of month October 2024 topography.
- Mineral Resources are constrained by a conceptual pit shell using the following assumptions: a gold price of US$2,150/oz Au; a silver price of US$26/oz Ag; rock mining cost of US$2.66/t mined; backfill mining cost of US$2.0/t mined; crushing and conveying cost of US$1.33/t processed; process and leaching cost of US$4.54/t processed; general and administrative cost of US$1.15/t processed; selling cost of US$0.66/t processed; gold metallurgical recovery of 79%; silver metallurgical recovery of 13%; and pit slope angles from 22º (pad), 35-42º (pit).
- Mineral Resources are reported at a gold equivalent cut-off of 0.14 g/t AuEq, using AuEq = (Au + Ag/equivalency factor), where equivalency factor = ((Au price in US$/g * Au recovery) / (Ag price in US$/g * Ag recovery)). This results in a Au:Ag ratio of 1:502.51.
- Totals may not sum due to rounding.
Veta Madre Mineral Resource Statement
Category | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t) | Silver Grade (g/t) | Gold Contained Metal (koz) | Silver Contained Metal (koz) |
Indicated | 2,724 | 0.73 | 3.5 | 64 | 309 |
Inferred | 77 | 0.53 | 2.5 | 1 | 6 |
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Notes to accompany Veta Madre Mineral Resource table:
- Mineral Resources are reported insitu, using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards, and have an effective date of 31 October, 2024. The Qualified Person for the estimate is Mr. David Thomas, P.Geo., Associate Mineral Resource Estimator with Mine Technical Services.
- Mineral Resources are reported inclusive of Mineral Reserves. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.
- Mineral Resource estimates use the end of month October 2024 topography.
- Mineral Resources are constrained by a conceptual pit shell using the following assumptions: a gold price of US$2,150/oz Au; a silver price of US$26/oz Ag; mining rock costs of US$2.55/t mined; crushing and conveying cost of US$1.33/t processed; process and leaching cost of US$4.54/t processed; general and administrative cost of US$1.15/t processed; selling cost of US$0.66/t processed; gold metallurgical recovery of 72%; silver metallurgical recovery 9.0%; and pit slope angles averaging 45º.
- Mineral Resources are reported at a gold equivalent cut-off of 0.15 g/t AuEq, using AuEq = (Au + Ag/equivalency factor), where equivalency factor = ((Au price in US$/g * Au recovery) / (Ag price in US$/g * Ag recovery)). This results in a Au:Ag ratio of 1:661.54.
- Totals may not sum due to rounding.
La Chatarrera Mineral Resource Statement
Category | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t) | Silver Grade (g/t) | Gold Contained Metal (koz) | Silver Contained Metal (koz) |
Indicated | 3,504 | 0.20 | 6.8 | 23 | 763 |
Inferred | 1,220 | 0.41 | 33.29 | 16 | 1,305 |
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Notes to accompany the Junkyard Stockpile Mineral Resource table:
- Mineral Resources are reported in stockpiles, using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards, and have an effective date of 31 October, 2024. The Qualified Person for the estimate is Mr. David Thomas, P.Geo., of Mine Technical Services.
- Mineral Resources are reported inclusive of Mineral Reserves. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.
- Mineral Resource estimates use the end of month October 2024 topography.
- Mineral Resources are reported using the following assumptions: a gold price of US$2,150/oz Au; a silver price of US$26/oz Ag; a stockpile rehandle cost of US$1.30/t mined; crushing and conveying cost of US$1.72/t processed; process and leaching cost of US$3.10/t processed; general and administrative cost of US$1.15/t processed; selling cost of US$0.66/t processed; gold metallurgical recovery of 66%; and a silver metallurgical recovery of 27%.
- Mineral Resources are reported at a gold equivalent cut-off of 0.17 g/t AuEq, using AuEq = (Au + Ag/equivalency factor), where equivalency factor = ((Au price in US$/g * Au recovery) / (Ag price in US$/g * Ag recovery)). This results in a Au:Ag ratio of 1:202.14.
- Totals may not sum due to rounding.
La Colorada Mineral Reserve Estimates
Mineral Resources were converted to Mineral Reserves for El Crestón, Veta Madre and the Junkyard.
The Mineral Reserve estimate is based on operation of the existing crusher and conveyor system having a nameplate throughput capacity of about 13,000 t/d, and continued operation of the heap leach and carbon-in-circuit (CIC) process circuit and refinery to process ore from the three deposits. The Mineral Reserve estimate is presented in the following table.
Mineral Reserves Statement
Classification | Zone | AuEq Cut-off (g/t) | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Silver Grade (g/t Ag) | Contained Gold (koz) | Contained Silver (koz) |
Probable | El Crestón | 0.160 | 12,841 | 0.76 | 10.1 | 312 | 4,181 |
Veta Madre | 0.175 | 1,905 | 0.70 | 3.1 | 43 | 189 | |
La Chatarrera | 0.164 | 3,413 | 0.20 | 6.4 | 22 | 704 | |
Total | 18,159 | 0.65 | 8.69 | 377 | 5,074 |
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Notes to accompany Mineral Reserves table:
- Mineral Reserves are reported at the point of delivery to the process plant, using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards.
- Mineral Reserves have an effective date of 30 November 2024. The Qualified Person for the estimate is Mr. Jeffrey Choquette, P.E., of Hard Rock Consulting.
- A 0.16 g/t AuEq cut-off is used for reporting the Mineral Reserves at El Crestón, and a 0.175 g/t AuEq cut-off is used for reporting Mineral Reserves at Veta Madre. Cut-offs were calculated based on a gold price of US$1,900/oz Au, silver price of US$23/oz Ag, processing costs of US$5.87/t, general and administrative costs of US$1.15/t, refining and selling costs of US$0.66/t, gold recovery of 79% for El Crestón and 72% for Veta Madre and a silver recovery of 13% for El Crestón and 9% for Veta Madre. The AuEq cut-off for the Junkyard Stockpile is 0.164 g/t AuEq based on metal prices of US$1,900/oz Au, and US$23/oz Ag, processing costs of US$4.82/t, general and administrative costs of US$1.15/t, refining and selling costs of US$0.66/t, gold recovery of 66% and a silver recovery of 27%. The AuEq calculation uses the formula AuEq = (Au + Ag/equivalency factor) where equivalency factor = ((Au price in US$/g * Au recovery) / (Ag price in US$/g * Ag recovery)).
- Mineral Reserves are reported within the ultimate reserve pit design. An external dilution factor of 10% and a metal loss of 5% were factored into the Mineral Reserves estimates.
- Tonnage and grade estimates are in metric units.
- Mineral Reserve tonnage and contained metal have been rounded to reflect the accuracy of the estimate, and numbers may not add due to rounding.
The LOM plan outlines sequential exploitation of the three deposits with two years of pre-production from the Junkyard (2025) and from near-surface ore extracted during pre-stripping (2026), before a production LOM of 4.1 years.
Figure 1 - Ore Mined by Pit Phase
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7729/237102_heliostar1.jpg
Note: Figure prepared by Hard Rock Consulting, 2024
La Colorada Operating Cost Estimates
The existing mining and process circuit at the La Colorada Mine remains unchanged for the proposed LOM plan in the La Colorada technical report, with exploitation of the three deposits benefitting from the installed capacity. The expected operating performance and operating cost forecasts were compiled with the benefit of benchmarking historical performance at La Colorada and the input of seasoned professionals knowledgeable of the conventional technologies being used at La Colorada, the expected consumption quantities of key supplies, and commercial pricing for goods and services in Mexico.
Total Operating Cost Summary
Operating Costs | Operating Cost ($/oz AuEq) | Operating Cost ($/t ore) | Operating Cost ($/t mined) |
Total mining | 1,038.63 | 17.02 | 2.06 |
Total processing | 368.21 | 6.04 | |
Total site general and administrative | 68.40 | 1.12 | |
Refinery and transport | 26.37 | 0.43 | |
Cash operating costs | 1,501.61 | 24.61 | |
Production taxes | 27.14 | 0.44 | |
Royalties | 20.00 | 0.33 | |
Total cash costs | 1,548.74 | 25.39 | |
Capital costs | 214.11 | 3.51 | |
Total AISC | 1,762.86 | 28.90 |
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La Colorada Capital Cost Estimates
The Junkyard only requires working capital to bring the deposit into production.
The initial capital cost for El Crestón is estimated at US$54.0M, including US$9.0M capital for pad expansion and US$43.4M mining pre-stripping costs until first production. A significant pre-strip is required to fully exploit the El Crestón deposit, comprising both capitalized and expensed pre-stripping costs.
The LOM plan includes US$6.8M for reclamation work at the end of the mine life.
Capital Cost Summary
Capital Costs | Initial (US$ M) | Sustaining (US$ M) | Total LOM (US$ M) |
Mine pre-production development | 43.40 | 0.00 | 43.40 |
Contractor mobilization | 0.21 | 0.00 | 0.21 |
Slope radar system | 0.00 | 0.50 | 0.50 |
Leach pad expansion | 8.97 | 2.13 | 11.10 |
Total direct costs | 52.58 | 2.63 | 55.21 |
Owner costs and reclamation | 0.00 | 6.80 | 6.80 |
Indirects and contingency | 1.35 | 0.37 | 1.72 |
Total indirect costs | 1.35 | 7.17 | 8.52 |
Total | 53.93 | 9.80 | 63.73 |
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La Colorada Economic Analysis
The financial analysis shows an after-tax net present value at a discount rate of 5% of US$25.9 M, an after-tax internal rate of return of 11.9%, and a payback period of 2.2 years. The forecast total lifespan of the Project is 4.1 years with two years of pre-production, although some metals production is planned in these two years. Approximately 377,000 oz of gold is projected to be mined, with 287,000 oz of gold recovered and produced for sale.
Summary Economic Results
Project Valuation Overview | Units | After Tax | Before Tax |
Total cashflow | US$ M | 54.92 | 86.51 |
NPV @ 5.0% (base case) | US$ M | 25.93 | 49.77 |
NPV @ 7.5%; | US$ M | 14.99 | 35.82 |
NPV @ 10.0%; | US$ M | 5.90 | 24.14 |
Internal rate of return | % | 11.9 | 17.2 |
Payback period | Years | 2.15 | 2.04 |
Payback multiple | 1.35 | 1.55 | |
Total initial capital | US$ M | 53.93 | 53.93 |
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Metal Prices
The La Colorada technical report includes a sensitivity analysis for key parameters impacting the forecast economic returns for La Colorada. The LOM plan and Mineral Reserves estimates are most sensitive to changes in the gold price, and gold grade. Since silver is projected to contribute only about 4% to the revenues. LOM variations in the silver price have limited impact on the cashflow forecast. The LOM plan and Mineral Reserves estimates are less sensitive to operating cost changes, and least sensitive to changes in capital costs.
Gold Price Sensitivity Analysis
Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$ M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5.0% Discount Rate (US$ M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
1,000 | -235.88 | -203.08 | - | 0.0 | 0.0 |
1,200 | -167.30 | -149.64 | - | 0.0 | 0.2 |
1,400 | -99.10 | -96.46 | -31.1 | 0.0 | 0.5 |
1,600 | -30.90 | -43.29 | -7.0 | 0.0 | 0.8 |
1,800 | 19.43 | -3.17 | 4.2 | 2.7 | 1.1 |
2,000 | 54.92 | 25.93 | 11.9 | 2.2 | 1.4 |
2,200 | 89.39 | 53.96 | 19.4 | 1.8 | 1.6 |
2,400 | 123.85 | 82.00 | 27.0 | 1.6 | 1.9 |
2,600 | 158.32 | 110.03 | 34.7 | 1.4 | 2.3 |
2,800 | 192.79 | 137.88 | 42.3 | 1.2 | 2.7 |
3,000 | 227.26 | 165.60 | 49.7 | 1.1 | 3.2 |
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Commentary by the Company on Relevant Matters
The results from ongoing drilling and other technical studies being performed at El Crestón are excluded from the La Colorada technical report but will be incorporated into a mineral resource model and will support a Mineral Reserve update that will be published with an updated technical report in mid-2025.
A total initial capital of $53.9M is a required, predominantly from waste stripping prior to the reaching the life-of-mine strip ratio. Further stripping is required after reaching the life-of-mine strip ratio and a maximum negative cash flow of US$139 million is projected at the base assumptions used in the La Colorada technical report (US$117M at US$2,600 gold).
The La Colorada technical report presents cash flows based on the base gold price used. With exploitation of the Junkyard starting this month, the project will generate revenues from sales based on current gold prices which are expected to be higher than the base gold price used in the La Colorada technical report.
The gold market has experienced significant upward price movement in the past few years and, considering that the gold price at the effective date of the La Colorada technical report is about 34% above the base gold price used in the La Colorada technical report. The sensitivity analysis presents gold price scenarios up to US$3,000/oz Au to understand the potential impact. From the base case price of $2,000/oz (years 2026-2031), a change in the average gold price of US$200/oz Au would change the NPV at a 5% discount rate by 108%, or approximately $28.0 M
Commentary by the Company on Next Steps and Permitting
Restart of mining activities at La Colorada has commenced at the Junkyard this month. The Company will provide production and cost guidance for 2025 later in January.
The Company will be continuing the current drill program and conducting other technical programs at El Crestón and plans to complete updated technical study in mid-2025.
The drill program includes shallow infill drilling designed to support short-term mine planning, and a program of infill and expansion drilling deeper in the pit to include in the future update to Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimate.
Some ancillary permitting work is planned at El Crestón and is expected to be completed by mid-2025. A change of land use permit is required to enable exploitation of Veta Madre.
Since the development plan for La Colorada represents a continuation of the historical operations, minimal capital investment is required for new equipment and facilities; however, pre-stripping at El Crestón and Veta Madre will need to be financed. Subject to satisfactory conclusion of the planned work programs and arranging financing, the Company is anticipating making an investment decision at El Crestón in 2H 2025.
Qualified Persons
The technical report for the La Colorado Mine was prepared for Heliostar Metals Inc. by Mr. Todd Wakefield, RM SME, Mr. David Thomas, P.Geo., Mr. Jeffrey Choquette, P.E., Mr. Carl Defilippi, RM SME, and Ms. Dawn Garcia, CPG. Each of these Qualified Persons has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release that was abstracted from the La Colorada technical report in their area of expertise and are independent of the Company.
SAN AGUSTIN MINE
Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates and a LOM plan were completed for the 100% owned San Agustin Operations (San Agustin) located in the state of Durango, Mexico. The LOM plan in the San Agustin technical report is based on an expansion of the existing open pit. The San Agustin technical report that is the subject of this news release supersedes a technical report that was prepared on the San Agustin Mine by Florida Canyon Gold Inc., which had an effective date of June 20, 2024.
The San Agustin technical report includes an updated Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimate. The LOM plan indicates that a Probable Mineral Reserve of 68k ounces of gold can be exploited based on 1.2 years of mine life at an all-in sustaining capital cost of US$1,990/oz Au.
Key Highlights
San Agustin - Mineral Reserve & Production Highlights | |
Mineral Reserves (kt) 1 | 7,358 |
Grade (g/t Au) | 0.29 |
Contained Gold (koz Au) | 68 |
Processing Rate (t/d) 2 | 17,100 |
Life of Mine (years) 3 | 1.2 |
Annual Production (oz Au per year, average 2026-2027) 4 | 19,091 |
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- Probable Mineral Reserve.
- Processing throughput rates will vary over the Life of Mine, up to the nameplate capacity of about 30,000 t/d.
- Excludes one year of metals production from ongoing re-leaching of heap leach piles.
- Gold production in 2026 is 32,625 ounces.
San Agustin - Financial Highlights | |
Average Unit Costs (US$ per oz AuEq) 1 | 1,605 |
Average AISC (US$ per oz AuEq) 1, 2 | 1,990 |
Total Initial Capital Cost (US$M) | 4.2 |
Total Sustainable Capital Cost (US$M) 2 | 14.3 |
Total LOM Capital Cost (US$M) | 18.5 |
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- Non-IFRS measures. AISC were first issued by the WGC in 2013. In light of new accounting standards and to support further consistency of application, the WGC published an updated Guidance note in 2018.
- Includes reclamation costs for San Agustin mine.
San Agustin Return Estimates based on Gold Price 1 | ||
US$2,100/oz 2 | US$2,600/oz 3 | |
IRR (%) | 156.1 | 365.0 |
NPV @ 5.0% discount (US$M) | 12.7 | 25.2 |
NPV @ 7.5% discount (US$M) | 11.7 | 23.6 |
Payback (years) | 0.8 | 0.3 |
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- All other key parameters set at base assumptions, including the 5% discount rate used. More detailed analysis is presented in the LSan Agustin technical report.
- Base Gold Price assumption used in the San Agustin technical report.
- Comparison gold price with reference to US$2,687.45 LBMA PM gold price on trading day January 10, 2025.
San Agustin Mineral Resource Estimates
Mineral Resources were estimated for San Agustin as summarized in the following table.
Mineral Resource Statement
Material Type | AuEq Cutoff (g/t AuEq) | Confidence Classification | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Silver Grade (g/t Ag) | Contained Gold (koz) | Contained Silver (koz) |
Oxide | 0.14 | Indicated | 17,154 | 0.30 | 11.5 | 165 | 6,333 |
Transitional | 0.27 | 700 | 0.44 | 17.4 | 10 | 391 | |
Sulphide argillic | 0.41 | 5,348 | 0.80 | 14.0 | 138 | 2,403 | |
Sulphide silicified | 0.60 | 427 | 0.90 | 7.4 | 12 | 102 | |
Total | 23,629 | 0.43 | 12.2 | 325 | 9,229 | ||
Oxide | 0.14 | Inferred | 1,273 | 0.29 | 9.2 | 12 | 378 |
Transitional | 0.27 | 5 | 0.32 | 25.6 | 0 | 4 | |
Sulphide argillic | 0.41 | 121 | 0.64 | 9.6 | 2 | 38 | |
Sulphide silicified | 0.60 | 2 | 0.68 | 6.0 | 0 | 0 | |
Total | 1,401 | 0.32 | 9.4 | 14 | 421 |
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Notes to accompany San Agustin Mineral Resource table:
- Mineral Resources are reported insitu, using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards, and have an effective date of 30 November, 2024. The Qualified Person for the estimate is Mr. David Thomas, PGeo., Associate Mineral Resource Estimator with Mine Technical Services.
- Mineral Resources are reported inclusive of Mineral Reserves. Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.
- Mineral Resource estimates are defined by end of month July 2024 topography.
- Mineral Resources are constrained by a conceptual pit shell using the following assumptions: a gold price of $2,150/oz Au; a silver price of $26.0/oz Ag; mining cost of $2.0/t mined; oxide process and leaching cost of $4.23/t processed; transition process and leaching cost of $5.14/t processed; sulphide argillic process and leaching cost of $5.36/t processed; sulphide silicic process and leaching cost of $4.94/t processed; general and administrative cost of $1.4/t processed; selling cost of $0.66/t processed; gold metallurgical recoveries from 17-66%; silver metallurgical recoveries from 9-10%; and pit slope angles of 45º.
- Totals may not sum due to rounding.
San Agustin Mineral Reserve Estimates
The Mineral Reserve estimate at San Agustin is based on operation of the existing crusher and conveyor system having a nameplate throughput capacity of about 30,000 t/d and continued operation of the heap leach and CIC process circuit to processing ore from the expanded open pit. The Mineral Reserve estimate is presented in the following table.
Mineral Reserve Statement
Classification | Material Type | AuEq Cut-off (g/t AuEq) | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (Au g/t) | Silver Grade (Ag g/t) | Contained Gold (koz) | Contained Silver (koz) |
Probable | Oxide | 0.156 | 7,281 | 0.29 | 16.24 | 67 | 3,803 |
Transition | 0.310 | 77 | 0.39 | 31.39 | 1 | 77 | |
Total | 7,358 | 0.29 | 16.40 | 68 | 3,880 |
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Notes to accompany Mineral Reserves table:
- Mineral Reserves are reported at the point of delivery to the process plant, using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards.
- Mineral Reserves have an effective date of 30 November 2024. The Qualified Person for the estimate is Mr. Jeffrey Choquette, PE, of Hard Rock Consulting, LLC.
- A 0.156 g/t AuEq cut-off is used for reporting the Mineral Reserves in oxide, and a 0.310 g/t AuEq cut-off is used for reporting Mineral Reserves in transitional material. Cut-offs were calculated based on a gold price of US$1,900/oz Au, silver price of US$23/oz Ag, processing costs of US$4.23/t for oxide, processing costs of US$5.14/t for transitional, general and administrative costs of US$1.40/t, refining and selling costs of US$0.66/t, gold recovery of 66% for oxide and 38% for transitional and a silver recovery of 10% for oxide and transitional. The AuEq calculation uses the formula AuEq = (Au + Ag/equivalency factor) where equivalency factor = ((Au price in US$/g * Au recovery) / (Ag price in US$/g * Ag recovery)).
- Mineral Reserves are reported within the ultimate reserve pit design. An external dilution factor of 5% and a metal loss of 3% have been factored into the Mineral Reserve estimate.
- Tonnage and grade estimates are in metric units.
- Mineral Reserve tonnage and contained metal have been rounded to reflect the accuracy of the estimate, and numbers may not add due to rounding
Figure 2 - Ore Mined by Pit Phase
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7729/237102_212c8174c412ca9e_004full.jpg
Note: Figure prepared by Hard Rock Consulting, 2024
San Agustin Operating Cost Estimates
The existing mining and process circuit at San Agustin remains unchanged for the proposed LOM plan in the San Agustin technical report, with exploitation of the ore from the expanded open pit benefitting from the installed capacity. The expected operating performance and operating cost forecasts were compiled with the benefit of benchmarking historical performance at San Agustin and the input of seasoned professionals knowledgeable of the conventional technologies being used at San Agustin, the expected consumption quantities of key supplies, and commercial pricing for goods and services in Mexico.
Total Operating Cost Summary
Operating Costs | Operating Cost (US$/oz AuEq) | Operating Cost (US$/t ore) | Operating Cost (US$/t mined) |
Total mining | 681.41 | 4.44 | 2.36 |
Total processing | 699.96 | 4.56 | |
Total site general and administrative | 123.57 | 0.80 | |
Refinery and transport | 38.47 | 0.25 | |
Cash operating costs | 1,543.41 | 10.05 | |
Production taxes | 40.10 | 0.26 | |
Royalties | 21.00 | 0.14 | |
Total cash costs | 1,604.51 | 10.45 | |
Capital costs | 385.59 | 2.51 | |
Total AISC | 1,990.09 | 12.96 |
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San Agustin Capital Cost Estimates
The initial capital cost is estimated at US$4.2M, including US$2.7M capital for Owner's costs and US$0.6M for an in-fill drill program.
The LOM plan includes US$13.6M for reclamation work at the end of the mine life.
Capital Cost Summary
Capital Costs | Initial (US$ M) | Sustaining (US$ M) | Total LOM (US$ M) |
Definition drilling Phase 4 Pit | 0.60 | 0.00 | 0.60 |
Mine contractor mobilization and demobilization | 0.15 | 0.05 | 0.20 |
Leach pad expansion | 0.00 | 0.61 | 0.61 |
Total direct costs | 0.75 | 0.66 | 1.41 |
Owner Costs and reclamation | 3.40 | 13.57 | 16.97 |
Indirects and contingency | 0.00 | 0.09 | 0.09 |
Total indirect costs | 3.40 | 13.67 | 17.07 |
Total | 4.15 | 14.33 | 18.48 |
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San Agustin Economic Analysis
The financial analysis in the San Agustin technical report shows an after-tax net present value at a discount rate of 5% of US$12.7 million, an after-tax internal rate of return of 156%, and a payback period of 0.8 years. The forecast total lifespan of the Project is 1.2 years with 0.8 years of residual leaching. Approximately 67,800 oz of gold is projected to be mined, with 44,500 oz of gold recovered and produced for sale.
Summary Economic Results
Project Valuation Overview | Units | After Tax | Before Tax |
Total cashflow | US$ M | 14.83 | 19.69 |
NPV @ 5.0% (base case) | US$ M | 12.67 | 19.46 |
NPV @ 7.5% | US$ M | 11.74 | 18.10 |
NPV @ 10.0% | US$ M | 10.88 | 16.86 |
Internal rate of return | % | 156.1 | 218.9 |
Payback period | Years | 0.79 | 0.59 |
Payback multiple | 1.09 | 1.66 | |
Total initial capital | US$ M | 4.15 | 4.15 |
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Metal Prices
The San Agustin technical report includes a sensitivity analysis for key parameters impacting the forecast economic returns for San Agustin. The LOM plan and Mineral Reserves estimates are most sensitive to gold price and gold grade. Since silver is projected to contribute only about 9% to the San Agustin revenues, variations in the silver price have a small impact on the cashflow forecast. The LOM plan and Mineral Reserves estimates are less sensitive to operating cost changes, and least sensitive to changes in capital costs.
Gold Price Sensitivity Analysis
Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$ M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5% (US$ M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
1,000 | -34.64 | -31.50 | - | - | - |
1,200 | -24.16 | -22.18 | - | - | - |
1,400 | -13.69 | -12.86 | - | - | - |
1,600 | -3.22 | -3.53 | -19.6 | - | - |
1,800 | 4.75 | 3.62 | 38.2 | 1.6 | 0.4 |
2,000 | 12.03 | 10.16 | 119.8 | 1.1 | 0.9 |
2,100 | 14.83 | 12.67 | 156.1 | 0.8 | 1.1 |
2,200 | 17.63 | 15.18 | 194.8 | 0.6 | 1.3 |
2,400 | 23.23 | 20.20 | 277.4 | 0.4 | 1.8 |
2,600 | 28.84 | 25.22 | 365.0 | 0.3 | 2.2 |
2,800 | 34.44 | 30.23 | 455.6 | 0.2 | 2.7 |
3,000 | 40.05 | 35.25 | 548.3 | 0.2 | 3.2 |
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Commentary by the Company on Relevant Matters
The San Agustin technical report presents cash flows based on the base gold price used. With exploitation of the Mineral Reserve as presented in the San Agustin technical report, the project will generate revenues from sales which may be higher than the base gold price used in the San Agustin technical report.
The gold market has experienced significant upward price movement in the past few years and, considering the gold price at the effective date of the San Agustin technical report is about 34% above the base gold price used in the San Agustin technical report. The sensitivity analysis presents gold price scenarios up to US$3,000 per ounce to understand the potential impact. From the base case price of $2,100/oz, a 10% change in the average gold price (or US$210/oz Au) would change the NPV at a 5% discount rate by 42%, or approximately $5.3 M.
Commentary by the Company on Next Steps and Permitting
Although mining activities at San Agustin ceased in August 2024, the Company is continuing re-leaching activities. The Company will provide production and cost guidance for 2025 later in January.
A change of land use permit is required to enable exploitation of the Mineral Reserve at San Agustin. Subject to obtaining the permit, the Company plans to conduct a small, in-fill drill program to provide geotechnical information and support short-term mine planning, and to complete other preparation work needed to restart the mining activities. These activities are expected to require 4-6 months to complete from permit approval.
Qualified Persons
The technical report for the San Agustin Mine was prepared for Heliostar Metals Inc. by Mr. Todd Wakefield, RM SME, Mr. David Thomas, P.Geo., Mr. Jeffrey Choquette, P.E., Mr. Carl Defilippi, RM SME, and Ms. Dawn Garcia, CPG. Each of these Qualified Persons has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release that was abstracted from the San Agustin technical report in their area of expertise and are independent of the Company.
SAN ANTONIO PRELIMINARY ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT
A Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) based on Mineral Resource estimates was completed for the 100% owned San Antonio Project (San Antonio Project technical report) located in the state of Baja California Sur, Mexico. The study considers construction and operation of a greenfield open pit and heap leach-CIC mine operation. The San Antonio Project technical report that is the subject of this news release supersedes a technical report that was prepared on the San Antonio Project by Argonaut Gold Inc., which had an effective date of 1 September, 2012.
The PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves, and there is no certainty that the preliminary economic assessment will be realized.
Key Highlights
San Antonio PEA - Resource & Production Highlights | |
Mineral Resource within PEA mine plan | |
Indicated Mineral Resources (kt) | 49,410 |
Grade (g/t Au) | 1.00 |
Contained Gold (koz Au) | 1,590 |
Inferred Mineral Resources (kt) | 5,397 |
Grade (g/t Au) | 0.47 |
Contained Gold (koz Au) | 82 |
Processing Rate (t/d) | 10,960 |
Life of Mine (years) | 13.7 |
Average recovery rate (% Au) | 65.8 |
Annual Production (oz Au per year, average) | 80,268 |
Life of Mine Production (Moz Au) | 1.10 |
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 San Antonio PEA - Financial Highlights | |
 Average Unit Cash Costs (US$ per oz Au)1 |  898 |
 Average AISC (US$ per oz Au)1 |  1,063 |
 Total Initial Capital Cost (US$M) |  131.3 |
 Total Sustainable Capital Cost (US$M) |  48.6 |
 Total LOM Capital Cost (US$M) |  179.9 |
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- Non-IFRS measures. AISC were first issued by the WGC in 2013. In light of new accounting standards and to support further consistency of application, the WGC published an updated Guidance note in 2018. Gold Price used in La Colorada technical report
San Antonio Return Estimates based on Gold Price 1 | ||
US$1,900/oz 2 | US$2,600/oz 3 | |
IRR (%) | 40.7 | 58.8 |
NPV @ 5.0% discount (US$M) | 398.7 | 715.1 |
NPV @ 7.5% discount (US$M) | 315.1 | 575.9 |
Payback (years) | 2.0 | 1.5 |
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- All other key parameters set at base assumptions, including the 5% discount rate used. More detailed analysis is presented in the San Antonio technical report.
- Base Gold Price assumption used in Technical Report.
- Comparison gold price with reference to US$2,687.45 LBMA PM gold price on trading day January 10, 2025.
San Antonio Mineral Resource Estimates
Mineral Resources were estimated for San Antonio Project as summarized in the following table.
Mineral Resource Statement
Confidence Classification | Area | Oxidation State | Cut-off Grade (g/t Au) | Tonnage (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Contained Metal (koz Au) |
Indicated | Los Planes | Oxide and transition | 0.095 | 15,839 | 0.91 | 461.2 |
Sulphide | 0.156 | 26,607 | 1.10 | 943.7 | ||
Intermediate | Oxide, transition, and sulphide | 0.150 | 5,239 | 0.87 | 146.3 | |
Las Colinas | Oxide and transition | 0.184 | 1,430 | 0.69 | 31.9 | |
Sulphide | 0.199 | 6,407 | 0.77 | 158.1 | ||
Total | Oxide, transition, and sulphide | 0.095-1.99 | 55,522 | 0.98 | 1,741.3 | |
Inferred | Los Planes | Oxide and transition | 0.095 | 5,479 | 0.34 | 59.1 |
Sulphide | 0.156 | 1,319 | 0.71 | 30.2 | ||
Intermediate | Alluvium, oxide, transition, and sulphide | 0.150 | 660 | 0.43 | 9.2 | |
Las Colinas | Alluvium, oxide, and transition | 0.184 | 689 | 0.49 | 10.9 | |
Sulphide | 0.199 | 579 | 0.59 | 11.0 | ||
La Colpa | Alluvium, oxide, and transition | 0.120 | 4,635 | 0.29 | 43.9 | |
Sulphide | 0.194 | 1,597 | 0.39 | 19.9 | ||
Total | Alluvium, oxide, transition, and sulphide | 0.095-1.99 | 14,957 | 0.38 | 184.4 |
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Notes to Accompany Mineral Resource Table:
- Mineral Resources are reported insitu, using the 2014 CIM Definition Standards.
- Mineral Resources have an effective date of 30 November, 2024. The Qualified Person for the estimate is Mr. Richard Schwering, RM SME, a Hard Rock Consulting employee.
- Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.
- Mineral Resources are constrained within a conceptual open pit shell that used the following input parameters: gold price of US$2,150/oz; a mining cost of US$2/t mined, incremental mining cost of US$0.017/t mined for each 6 m depth; variable processing costs by oxidation state, ranging from US$3.84-5.26/t processed; general and administrative costs of US$1.00/t processed; finishing and selling costs of US$0.75/t processed; variable metallurgical recoveries by oxidation state, ranging from 44-86%; and variable pit slope angles ranging from 35-45º. Mineral Resources are reported above variable cut-off grades, ranging from 0.095-1.99 g/t Au.
- Numbers have been rounded.
San Antonio Mineral Resources Scheduled Within PEA Mine Plan
A mine plan was prepared based on an open pit and heap leach-CIC mine operation, with mineralized material processed sequentially and concurrently from three distinct mineral zones within the San Antonio deposit.
Mineral Resource Scheduled Within PEA Mine Plan
Material Type | Indicated | Inferred | ||||
Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Contained Gold (koz Au) | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Contained Gold (koz Au) | |
Los Planes; oxide, mixed | 15,566 | 0.92 | 458.0 | 3,569 | 0.40 | 46.3 |
Los Planes; sulphide | 25,276 | 1.13 | 918.9 | 968 | 0.76 | 23.7 |
Intermediate; oxide, mixed | 478 | 0.58 | 8.9 | 204 | 0.40 | 2.6 |
Intermediate; sulphide | 3,242 | 0.88 | 91.3 | 120 | 0.44 | 1.7 |
Las Colinas; oxide, mixed | 1,275 | 0.69 | 28.3 | 313 | 0.42 | 4.2 |
Las Colinas; sulphide | 3,574 | 0.74 | 84.8 | 223 | 0.42 | 3.0 |
Total | 49,410 | 1.00 | 1,590.2 | 5,397 | 0.47 | 81.6 |
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Figure 3 - Mineralization Mined by Pit Phase
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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San Antonio Operating Cost Estimates
The operating costs in the San Antonio Project technical report were estimated for mining, processing, and general administration activities for an open pit and heap leach-CIC mine operation.
Total Operating Cost Estimate
Operating Costs | Operating Cost (US$/oz Au) | Operating Cost (US$/t mineralized material) | Operating Cost (US$/t mined) |
Total mining | 522.78 | 10.40 | 2.06 |
Total processing | 204.24 | 4.06 | |
Total site general and administrative | 59.26 | 1.18 | |
Refinery and transport | 16.85 | 0.34 | |
Cash operating costs | 803.13 | 15.97 | |
Production taxes | 76.22 | 1.52 | |
Royalties | 19.00 | 0.38 | |
Total cash costs | 898.34 | 17.87 | |
Capital costs | 165.04 | 3.28 | |
Total AISC | 1,063.39 | 21.15 |
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San Antonio Capital Cost Estimates
The initial capital cost including contingency was estimated at US$131.8M, with a 2-year pre-production phase for construction of the greenfield mine.
Total LOM Capital Costs
LOM Capital Costs | Initial (US$M) | Sustaining (US$M) | Total LOM (US$M) |
Mine area | 4.36 | 5.00 | 9.36 |
General and administrative infrastructure | 72.26 | 20.50 | 92.76 |
Processing | 12.81 | 0.00 | 12.81 |
Total direct costs | 89.43 | 25.50 | 114.93 |
Owner costs and reclamation | 5.00 | 17.31 | 22.31 |
Project indirect costs | 16.51 | 0.00 | 16.51 |
Contingency | 20.35 | 5.80 | 26.16 |
Total indirect costs | 41.86 | 23.11 | 64.97 |
Total | 131.28 | 48.62 | 179.90 |
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San Antonio Economic Analysis
The financial analysis in the San Antonio Project technical report shows an after-tax net present value at a discount rate of 5% of US$399M, an after-tax internal rate of return of 40.7%, and a payback period of 2.1 years. The forecast total lifespan is 14 years. Approximately 1.67 M ounces of gold is projected to be mined, with 1.10 M ounces of gold forecast to be recovered and produced for sale.
Summary Economic Results
Project Valuation Overview | Units | After Tax | Before Tax |
Total cashflow | US$ M | 651.21 | 1,013.36 |
NPV @ 5.0% (base case) | US$ M | 398.66 | 635.33 |
NPV @ 7.5% | US$ M | 315.09 | 509.96 |
NPV @ 10.0% | US$ M | 250.14 | 412.36 |
Internal rate of return | % | 40.7 | 53.7 |
Payback period | Years | 2.05 | 1.71 |
Payback multiple | 5.24 | 7.65 | |
Total initial capital | US$ M | 138.59 | 138.59 |
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Metal Prices
The San Antonio Project technical report includes a sensitivity analysis for key parameters impacting the cashflow forecast. The PEA LOM plan that is based on Mineral Resources is most sensitive to gold price and gold grade. It is less sensitive to operating cost changes, and least sensitive to changes in capital costs.
Gold Price Sensitivity Analysis
Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$ M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5% (US$ M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
1,000 | 11.34 | -20.14 | 1.5 | 5.3 | 1.1 |
1,200 | 162.93 | 78.70 | 15.0 | 3.5 | 2.0 |
1,400 | 303.75 | 171.10 | 23.8 | 2.8 | 3.0 |
1,600 | 443.11 | 262.51 | 31.2 | 2.4 | 3.9 |
1,800 | 582.04 | 353.46 | 37.7 | 2.2 | 4.8 |
1,900 | 651.21 | 398.66 | 40.7 | 2.0 | 5.2 |
2,000 | 720.38 | 443.86 | 43.5 | 2.0 | 5.7 |
2,200 | 858.73 | 534.26 | 49.0 | 1.8 | 6.6 |
2,400 | 997.07 | 624.66 | 54.0 | 1.7 | 7.5 |
2,600 | 1,135.42 | 715.05 | 58.8 | 1.5 | 8.3 |
2,800 | 1,273.76 | 805.45 | 63.4 | 1.5 | 9.2 |
3,000 | 1,412.10 | 895.85 | 67.8 | 1.4 | 10.1 |
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Commentary by the Company on Relevant Matters
The gold market has experienced significant upward price movement in the past few years and considering gold price at the effective date of the San Antonio technical report is about 41% above the base gold price used in the San Agustin Project technical report. The sensitivity analysis presents gold price scenarios up to US$3,000 per ounce to understand the potential impact. From the base case price of US$1,900/oz Au, a change in the average gold price of US$200/oz Au would change the NPV at a 5% discount rate by 22.7%, or approximately $90.4 M.
Commentary by the Company on Next Steps and Permitting
The Project requires further development planning and engineering. All major environmental and other permits will need to be obtained before an investment decision can be considered by Heliostar.
Based on the results from the San Antonio Project technical report, the Company will conduct a strategic Project review with the objective of identifying and evaluating the next development steps and challenges. The Company will also consider additional work programs and alternative business possibilities to potentially add Project value to the San Antonio Project as presented in the PEA. This strategic review is expected to require 3-4 months to complete.
Qualified Persons
The technical report for the San Antonio Project was prepared for Heliostar Metals Inc. by Mr. Todd Wakefield, RM SME, Mr. Richard Schwering RM SME, Mr. Jeffrey Choquette, P.E., Mr. Carl Defilippi, RM SME, and Ms. Dawn Garcia, CPG. Each of these Qualified Persons has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release that was abstracted from the San Antonio Project technical report in their area of expertise and are independent of the Company.
With respect to this News Release:
Qualified Persons for News Release
Sam Anderson, CPG, Gregg Bush, P.Eng. and Mike Gingles, MBA, the Company's Qualified Persons, as such term is defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, have reviewed the scientific and technical information not derived from the technical reports and included in this news release in the Company Overview, Commentary by the Company on Relevant Matters and Commentary by the Company on Next Steps and Permitting sections for each property and have approved the disclosure herein.
Data Verification
In addition, the Qualified Persons for each of the technical reports verified the data in the reports in their areas of expertise, and concluded that the information supported Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimation, and could be used in mine planning and economic analysis. The verification completed by each Qualified Person is discussed in each technical report and included site visits, and could include data audits, suitability of data for use in estimation and mine planning, quality assurance and quality control checks, review of available technical and economic study data, review of data collection and evaluation methods, review of production data including reconciliation where available, review of actual cost data for operations, and review of third-party inputs to forecasts.
The Company's Qualified persons verified the information that was not derived from the technical reports. The data verification included site visits, data audits, review of available study data, review of data collection and evaluation methods, review of production data including reconciliation where available, review of actual cost data for operations, and review of third-party inputs to forecasts, and consideration of the Company's plans for the projects.
About Heliostar Metals Ltd.
Heliostar aims to grow to become a mid-tier gold producer. The Company is focused on increasing production and developing new resources at the recently acquired La Colorada and San Agustin mines in Mexico, and on developing the 100% owned Ana Paula Project in Guerrero, Mexico.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Charles Funk
President and Chief Executive Officer
Heliostar Metals Limited
Email: charles.funk@heliostarmetals.com
Phone: +1 844-753-0045
Rob Grey
Investor Relations Manager
Heliostar Metals Limited
Email: rob.grey@heliostarmetals.com
Phone: +1 844-753-0045
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information
This news release includes certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information relate to, among other things, El Crestón expansion at La Colorada is expected to produce over 50,000 ounces of gold per year, Current drill program (five drill rigs) is targeting lower CAPEX and increased production for an updated technical report planned for mid-2025, Receiving the Corner Permit allow for strong cash flow generation from San Agustin including funding San Agustin rehabilitation costs, Upon receipt of permit, expected in 2025, the Company will undertake drilling to potentially extend mine life from oxide gold production and is reviewing the projects sulphide potential, Mineral resource of 1.6 million ounces of gold at San Antonio project creates attractive optionality with high grade, low CAPEX, sub-US$1,100/oz ASIC and long mine life, the combined projects have positive economics at conservative gold prices and significantly stronger returns at today's gold prices and In 2025, the Company will focus on reducing front-end capital requirements for El Crestón to improve the project economics for the expansion decision and will continue to advance Ana Paula through its Feasibility Study.
Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to the terms and completion of the Facility, any future mineral production, liquidity, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the receipt of necessary approvals, price of metals; no escalation in the severity of public health crises or ongoing military conflicts; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; and the Company's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms.
These statements reflect the Company's respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's mining activities in foreign jurisdictions; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; risks regarding exploration and mining activities; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; the ability of the communities in which the Company operates to manage and cope with the implications of public health crises; the economic and financial implications of public health crises, ongoing military conflicts and general economic factors to the Company; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; and the factors identified under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's public disclosure documents. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to 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 cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.
This news release includes certain non-International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) measures. The Company has included these measures, in addition to conventional measures conforming with IFRS, to provide investors with an improved ability to evaluate the project and provide comparability between projects. The non-IFRS measures, which are generally considered standard measures within the mining industry albeit with non-standard definitions, are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Cash costs (Cash Costs) are a common financial performance measure in the gold mining industry but with no standard meaning under IFRS. The Company believes that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use this information to evaluate each project's economic results in the technical reports and each project's potential to generate operating earnings and cash flow. All-in Sustaining Costs (AISC) more fully defines the total costs associated with producing precious metals. The AISC is calculated based on guidelines published by the World Gold Council (WGC), which were first issued in 2013. In light of new accounting standards and to support further consistency of application, the WGC published an updated Guidance Note in 2018. Other companies may calculate this measure differently because of differences in underlying principles and policies applied. Differences may also arise due to a different definition of sustaining versus growth capital. Note that in respect of AISC metrics within the technical reports because such economics are disclosed at the project level, corporate general and administrative expenses were not included in the AISC calculations.
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B2Gold Announces Amended Shareholder Return Strategy, including New Dividend Framework and Intention to Implement a Normal Course Issuer Bid
B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) ("B2Gold" or the "Company") announces amendments to its shareholder returns strategy to increase financial flexibility as it completes its current phase of organic growth, including the anticipated commencement of initial production from Fekola Regional in Mali, the completion of construction of the Goose Mine in Nunavut, Canada, the development of the Antelope deposit at the Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, and de-risking activities at the Gramalote Project in Colombia. All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.
New Dividend Framework
Management and the Board of Directors (the "Board") of B2Gold have completed a comprehensive review of its existing dividend level and approved a change in its intended quarterly dividend rate from $0.04 per common share ($0.16 per common share on an annualized basis) to $0.02 per common share ($0.08 per common share on an annualized basis).
Since payment of its inaugural dividend in 2020, B2Gold has paid a sector-leading dividend, principally funded through the strong free cash flow generation from its three existing operating mines. Upon acquiring Sabina Gold & Silver Corp. in April 2023 (and the associated increase in B2Gold shares outstanding), the Company continued its quarterly dividend at the same $0.04 per common share level while investing significantly in organic production growth opportunities, primarily advancing construction of the Goose Mine and developing the infrastructure for Fekola Regional. In total, B2Gold has paid approximately $870 million in dividends to shareholders since 2020.
Based on the Company's funding requirements, including completing construction of the Goose Mine (which remains on schedule and on budget to the current timeline and total construction cost estimate as outlined in B2Gold's September 12, 2024 news release), advancing development of the Antelope deposit at the Otjikoto Mine, de-risking activities at the Gramalote Project in Colombia, combined with the upcoming delivery of approximately 265,000 gold ounces from July 2025 to June 2026 to satisfy its gold prepayment arrangement entered into in January 2024, the Company determined that modifying the quarterly dividend level to $0.02 per common share is commensurate to the current growth phase of the Company and provides additional financial flexibility to advance and complete its organic growth opportunities, while still providing shareholders with a sustainable dividend moving forward.
Returning capital to shareholders remains a foundational element of B2Gold's capital allocation philosophy. Under the amended dividend framework, the pro forma dividend yield as of December 31, 2024, would be 3.3%, remaining one of the highest dividend yields amongst the global precious metal producers.
Clive Johnson, President and Chief Executive Officer of B2Gold stated, "Since inception of our first common share dividend in 2020, B2Gold has paid approximately $870 million in dividends to shareholders, reflecting the strong free cash flow generation of our portfolio of operating assets over the past four years. As we enter an organic production growth phase, starting shortly with the anticipated commencement of gold production from both Fekola Regional and the Goose Mine, it is important to maintain our strong financial position as well as flexibility for internal growth projects moving forward. In conjunction with the revised dividend framework, we are announcing the intent to implement a normal course issuer bid, which will allow the Company to have increased flexibility with respect to returning capital to shareholders, as well as take advantage of periods of time when the market value of our shares do not properly reflect the underlying value of our business."
The declaration and payment of future dividends and the amount of any such dividends will be subject to the determination of the Board, in its sole and absolute discretion, taking into account, among other things, economic conditions, business performance, financial condition, growth plans, expected capital requirements, compliance with B2Gold's constating documents, all applicable laws, including the rules and policies of any applicable stock exchange, as well as any contractual restrictions on such dividends, including any agreements entered into with lenders to the Company, and any other factors that the Board deems appropriate at the relevant time. There can be no assurance that any dividends will be paid at the revised intended rate or at all in the future.
Intention to Implement Normal Course Issuer Bid
B2Gold intends to implement a normal course issuer bid (the "NCIB") to purchase, on the open market through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX"), NYSE American ("NYSE American"), other designated exchanges and/or alternative Canadian and U.S. trading systems or by such other means as may be permitted by applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws, up to 5% of the outstanding common shares of the Company ("Shares"), subject to the approval of the TSX. As at January 13, 2025, the Company had 1,318,040,605 Shares outstanding. The Company intends to file a notice of intention with the TSX in this regard.
Subject to the approval of the TSX, it is expected that the NCIB will begin later in the first quarter of 2025 and will end at the latest 12 months from the date of the implementation of the NCIB. Purchases made on the open market through the facilities of the TSX, the NYSE American and alternative trading systems will be made at the prevailing market price at the time of purchase, or such other price as may be permitted by the TSX and applicable U.S. securities laws. The Company may also purchase Shares pursuant to exemption orders from applicable securities regulatory authorities, and such purchases will be at a discount to the prevailing market price. The Shares purchased by B2Gold under the NCIB will be cancelled. The Company will only make purchases under the NCIB once all regulatory approvals are obtained.
The Company will retain discretion whether to make purchases under the NCIB, and to determine the timing, amount and acceptable price of any such purchases, subject at all times to applicable TSX, NYSE American and other regulatory requirements. However, the Company may enter into a pre-defined plan (a "Purchase Plan") on occasion with its broker to allow for the repurchase of Shares at times when the Company ordinarily would not be active in the market due to its pre-scheduled blackout periods. Such form of a Purchase Plan will be adopted in accordance with Canadian and U.S. securities laws and is subject to the approval of the TSX.
The Company's decision to approve the NCIB is consistent with its amended shareholder return strategy outlined in detail above, and reflective of the Company's belief that the market may undervalue the Shares of B2Gold from time to time and that the Shares may trade in a price range which may not adequately reflect the value of the Shares in relation to the business, assets, and prospects of B2Gold from time to time and that purchases of Shares pursuant to the NCIB may represent an appropriate and desirable use of the Company's capital.
The Company intends to announce when the NCIB has been approved by the TSX with additional details regarding the time frame allowed for the NCIB and details around the number of Shares available for the Company to purchase under the NCIB, in the aggregate and per trading day.
About B2Gold
B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Founded in 2007, today, B2Gold has operating gold mines in Mali, Namibia and the Philippines, the Goose Project under construction in northern Canada and numerous development and exploration projects in various countries including Mali, Colombia and Finland. B2Gold forecasts total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025.
ON BEHALF OF B2GOLD CORP.
"Clive T. Johnson"
President and Chief Executive Officer
Source: B2Gold Corp.
The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release.
Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 14, 2024 for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates.
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining) and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets on a consolidated and mine by mine basis; future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, gold recovery rates, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: remaining well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance in 2025; total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025; and certain statements related to the Company's intention to implement the NCIB, and the proposed terms thereof. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.
Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility and other studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines and Colombia and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; risks affecting Calibre having an impact on the value of the Company's investment in Calibre, and potential dilution of our equity interest in Calibre; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
For more information on B2Gold please visit the Company website at www.b2gold.com or contact: Michael McDonald VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Development +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com Cherry DeGeer Director, Corporate Communications +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com
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B2Gold Announces Amended Shareholder Return Strategy, including New Dividend Framework and Intention to Implement a Normal Course Issuer Bid
B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) ("B2Gold" or the "Company") announces amendments to its shareholder returns strategy to increase financial flexibility as it completes its current phase of organic growth, including the anticipated commencement of initial production from Fekola Regional in Mali, the completion of construction of the Goose Mine in Nunavut, Canada, the development of the Antelope deposit at the Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, and de-risking activities at the Gramalote Project in Colombia. All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.
New Dividend Framework
Management and the Board of Directors (the "Board") of B2Gold have completed a comprehensive review of its existing dividend level and approved a change in its intended quarterly dividend rate from $0.04 per common share ($0.16 per common share on an annualized basis) to $0.02 per common share ($0.08 per common share on an annualized basis).
Since payment of its inaugural dividend in 2020, B2Gold has paid a sector-leading dividend, principally funded through the strong free cash flow generation from its three existing operating mines. Upon acquiring Sabina Gold & Silver Corp. in April 2023 (and the associated increase in B2Gold shares outstanding), the Company continued its quarterly dividend at the same $0.04 per common share level while investing significantly in organic production growth opportunities, primarily advancing construction of the Goose Mine and developing the infrastructure for Fekola Regional. In total, B2Gold has paid approximately $870 million in dividends to shareholders since 2020.
Based on the Company's funding requirements, including completing construction of the Goose Mine (which remains on schedule and on budget to the current timeline and total construction cost estimate as outlined in B2Gold's September 12, 2024 news release), advancing development of the Antelope deposit at the Otjikoto Mine, de-risking activities at the Gramalote Project in Colombia, combined with the upcoming delivery of approximately 265,000 gold ounces from July 2025 to June 2026 to satisfy its gold prepayment arrangement entered into in January 2024, the Company determined that modifying the quarterly dividend level to $0.02 per common share is commensurate to the current growth phase of the Company and provides additional financial flexibility to advance and complete its organic growth opportunities, while still providing shareholders with a sustainable dividend moving forward.
Returning capital to shareholders remains a foundational element of B2Gold's capital allocation philosophy. Under the amended dividend framework, the pro forma dividend yield as of December 31, 2024, would be 3.3%, remaining one of the highest dividend yields amongst the global precious metal producers.
Clive Johnson, President and Chief Executive Officer of B2Gold stated, "Since inception of our first common share dividend in 2020, B2Gold has paid approximately $870 million in dividends to shareholders, reflecting the strong free cash flow generation of our portfolio of operating assets over the past four years. As we enter an organic production growth phase, starting shortly with the anticipated commencement of gold production from both Fekola Regional and the Goose Mine, it is important to maintain our strong financial position as well as flexibility for internal growth projects moving forward. In conjunction with the revised dividend framework, we are announcing the intent to implement a normal course issuer bid, which will allow the Company to have increased flexibility with respect to returning capital to shareholders, as well as take advantage of periods of time when the market value of our shares do not properly reflect the underlying value of our business."
The declaration and payment of future dividends and the amount of any such dividends will be subject to the determination of the Board, in its sole and absolute discretion, taking into account, among other things, economic conditions, business performance, financial condition, growth plans, expected capital requirements, compliance with B2Gold's constating documents, all applicable laws, including the rules and policies of any applicable stock exchange, as well as any contractual restrictions on such dividends, including any agreements entered into with lenders to the Company, and any other factors that the Board deems appropriate at the relevant time. There can be no assurance that any dividends will be paid at the revised intended rate or at all in the future.
Intention to Implement Normal Course Issuer Bid
B2Gold intends to implement a normal course issuer bid (the "NCIB") to purchase, on the open market through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX"), NYSE American ("NYSE American"), other designated exchanges and/or alternative Canadian and U.S. trading systems or by such other means as may be permitted by applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws, up to 5% of the outstanding common shares of the Company ("Shares"), subject to the approval of the TSX. As at January 13, 2025, the Company had 1,318,040,605 Shares outstanding. The Company intends to file a notice of intention with the TSX in this regard.
Subject to the approval of the TSX, it is expected that the NCIB will begin later in the first quarter of 2025 and will end at the latest 12 months from the date of the implementation of the NCIB. Purchases made on the open market through the facilities of the TSX, the NYSE American and alternative trading systems will be made at the prevailing market price at the time of purchase, or such other price as may be permitted by the TSX and applicable U.S. securities laws. The Company may also purchase Shares pursuant to exemption orders from applicable securities regulatory authorities, and such purchases will be at a discount to the prevailing market price. The Shares purchased by B2Gold under the NCIB will be cancelled. The Company will only make purchases under the NCIB once all regulatory approvals are obtained.
The Company will retain discretion whether to make purchases under the NCIB, and to determine the timing, amount and acceptable price of any such purchases, subject at all times to applicable TSX, NYSE American and other regulatory requirements. However, the Company may enter into a pre-defined plan (a "Purchase Plan") on occasion with its broker to allow for the repurchase of Shares at times when the Company ordinarily would not be active in the market due to its pre-scheduled blackout periods. Such form of a Purchase Plan will be adopted in accordance with Canadian and U.S. securities laws and is subject to the approval of the TSX.
The Company's decision to approve the NCIB is consistent with its amended shareholder return strategy outlined in detail above, and reflective of the Company's belief that the market may undervalue the Shares of B2Gold from time to time and that the Shares may trade in a price range which may not adequately reflect the value of the Shares in relation to the business, assets, and prospects of B2Gold from time to time and that purchases of Shares pursuant to the NCIB may represent an appropriate and desirable use of the Company's capital.
The Company intends to announce when the NCIB has been approved by the TSX with additional details regarding the time frame allowed for the NCIB and details around the number of Shares available for the Company to purchase under the NCIB, in the aggregate and per trading day.
About B2Gold
B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Founded in 2007, today, B2Gold has operating gold mines in Mali, Namibia and the Philippines, the Goose Project under construction in northern Canada and numerous development and exploration projects in various countries including Mali, Colombia and Finland. B2Gold forecasts total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025.
ON BEHALF OF B2GOLD CORP.
"Clive T. Johnson"
President and Chief Executive Officer
Source: B2Gold Corp.
The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release.
Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 14, 2024 for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates.
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining) and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets on a consolidated and mine by mine basis; future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, gold recovery rates, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: remaining well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance in 2025; total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025; and certain statements related to the Company's intention to implement the NCIB, and the proposed terms thereof. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.
Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility and other studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines and Colombia and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; risks affecting Calibre having an impact on the value of the Company's investment in Calibre, and potential dilution of our equity interest in Calibre; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
For more information on B2Gold please visit the Company website at www.b2gold.com or contact: Michael McDonald VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Development +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com Cherry DeGeer Director, Corporate Communications +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com
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B2Gold Announces Total Consolidated Gold Production for 2024 of 804,778 oz, Within the Revised 2024 Guidance Range; Total Gold Production for 2025 Anticipated to be Between 970,000 and 1,075,000 oz; Goose Project Remains On Track for First Gold in Q2 2025 and Total Capital Estimate Remains at C$1,540 Million
B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) ("B2Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its gold production and revenue results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024, as well as its 2025 total gold production guidance and 2025 cost guidance for its current operating mines. All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.
Q4 and Full Year 2024 Highlights
- Total gold production of 186,001 ounces in Q4 2024: Total gold production in the fourth quarter of 2024 was 186,001 ounces. At the Fekola Mine, production was lower than expected due to the continued delays in accessing higher-grade ore from Fekola Phase 7, a result of lower realized mine production from the Fekola Phase 7 and Cardinal pits during the period. Mining and processing of these higher-grade tonnes is now expected in 2025 as equipment availability had returned to full capacity and mining rates were at expected levels at the end of 2024. The Fekola Mine and mill are operating without limitations and gold production is being exported for refining as per its regular planned schedule. Masbate and Otjikoto both continued to outperform expectations in the fourth quarter of 2024, which partially offset a portion of the lower than expected production levels at Fekola during the fourth quarter.
- Total annual consolidated gold production of 804,778 ounces: Total consolidated gold production for 2024 was 804,778 ounces (including 19,644 ounces of attributable production from Calibre Mining Corp. ("Calibre")), at the low end of the Company's revised 2024 guidance range.
- Strong quarterly gold revenue to finish 2024: Consolidated gold revenue in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $500 million on sales of 187,793 ounces at an average realized gold price of $2,661 per gold ounce. For the full year 2024, consolidated gold revenue was $1.90 billion on sales of 801,524 ounces at an average realized gold price of $2,373 per gold ounce.
- Re-affirm full year 2024 total consolidated cost guidance: Total consolidated cash operating costs ( see "Non-IFRS Measures") for the year (including attributable results for Calibre) are still expected to be at the upper end of the guidance range of between $835 and $895 per ounce and total consolidated all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") ( see "Non-IFRS Measures") for the year (including attributable results for Calibre) are still forecast to be at the upper end of the revised guidance range of between $1,420 and $1,480 per ounce.
- Achieved significant safety milestone of 6 years without a Lost Time Injury at Masbate: On November 17, 2024, the Masbate Mine, located in the Philippines, achieved a major safety milestone, six years without a Lost Time Injury ("LTI"). Further, Masbate has only seen one LTI in approximately the last ten years. B2Gold has a longstanding commitment to continuous safety improvement at all of its sites, and its goal of sending everyone home safe at each of its operations and projects.
- Renewed revolving credit facility in December 2024, increasing the total borrowing capacity to $800 million: On December 17, 2024, B2Gold completed the renewal of its revolving credit facility, increasing the total available amount from $700 million to $800 million, plus a $200 million accordion feature. The new revolving credit facility has a term until December 17, 2028. The revolving credit facility was completed with a syndicate of banks: Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, ING Bank N.V., The Bank of Nova Scotia, Bank of Montreal, National Bank of Canada, HSBC Bank USA, National Association and Citibank N.A., Canadian Branch.
2025 Guidance Highlights
- Total gold production is anticipated to be between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces: Total gold production for 2025 is expected to be between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces. The expected increase in gold production relative to 2024 is predominantly due to the scheduled mining and processing of higher-grade ore from the Fekola Phase 7 and Cardinal pits made accessible by the meaningful deferred stripping campaign that was undertaken throughout 2024, the expected contribution from Fekola Regional starting in mid-2025, the commencement of mining of higher-grade ore at Fekola underground, and the commencement of gold production at the Goose Project by the end of the second quarter of 2025, partially offset by the scheduled conclusion of open pit mining activities at the Otjikoto Mine in the third quarter of 2025.
- Total consolidated cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs remain stable: Total consolidated cash operating cost guidance ( see "Non-IFRS Measures") for the Fekola Complex, Masbate Mine, and Otjikoto Mine for 2025 of between $835 and $895 per gold ounce. Total all-in sustaining cost guidance ( see "Non-IFRS Measures") for the Fekola Complex, Masbate Mine, and Otjikoto Mine for 2025 of between $1,460 and $1,520 per gold ounce. Operating cost guidance for the Goose Project will be released in the second quarter of 2025 (prior to the commencement of initial production), after publication in the first quarter of 2025 of B2Gold's initial Goose Project life of mine plan based on updated Mineral Reserves.
- B2Gold's initial Goose Project life of mine plan to be released at the end of the first quarter of 2025 based on updated Mineral Reserves: The Company continues to estimate that gold production in calendar year 2025 will be between 120,000 and 150,000 ounces and that average annual gold production for the six year period from 2026 to 2031 inclusive will be approximately 310,000 ounces per year, with the latest published Mineral Reserves supporting a long mine life beyond 2031.
- Total Goose Project construction and mine development cash expenditure estimate before first production remains at C$1,540 million: As of September 30, 2024, C$1,176 million of construction and mine development cash expenditures (or 76% of the total estimated cash expenditures) had been incurred. Based on its unaudited November 2024 cost report, the Company estimates that approximately 83% of the total estimated cash expenditures to first gold had been incurred as of November 30, 2024. Reconciled total cash expenditures as of December 31, 2024, will be published with the Company's year-end financial statements to be released in February 2025. Based on the construction and mine development cash expenditures incurred to date, combined with the estimated expenditures to be incurred through to the first gold pour in the second quarter of 2025, the Company reiterates the total Goose Project construction and mine development cash expenditure estimate of C$1,540 million.
- Goose Project construction and development remains on schedule for first gold pour in the second quarter of 2025: All planned construction activities for 2024 were completed and project construction and development continue to progress on track to achieve first gold pour at the Goose Project in the second quarter of 2025. Following the successful completion of the 2024 sea lift, the construction of the 163 kilometer ("km") Winter Ice Road ("WIR") is well underway and expected to be completed on schedule and fully operational before March 2025, allowing for the transportation of all materials from the Marine Laydown Area ("MLA") to the Goose Project site by the end of May 2025.
- Mining and trucking operations anticipated to commence at Fekola Regional in 2025, with first gold production expected in mid-2025; initial gold production at Fekola underground also expected in mid-2025: Following the expected receipt of the exploitation license for Fekola Regional in the first quarter of 2025, mining and trucking operations will commence, with gold production expected in mid-2025. The contribution of higher-grade open pit ore from Fekola Regional, to be trucked to the Fekola mill, is anticipated to contribute between 20,000 and 25,000 ounces in 2025 with average contribution of approximately 180,000 ounces of additional annual gold production in its first four full years of production from 2026 through 2029. The approval of the exploitation phase to mine the higher-grade ore at Fekola underground is expected to be received in the second quarter of 2025 with initial gold production from Fekola underground expected in mid-2025. Significant exploration potential remains across the Fekola Complex to further extend mine life.
- Preliminary economic assessment(" PEA") on the Antelope deposit at Otjikoto expected early in the first quarter of 2025: Following the successful completion in 2024 of an initial Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate for the Springbok Zone, which is the southernmost shoot of the recently discovered Antelope deposit located approximately three km south of the Otjikoto Phase 5 open pit at the Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, the Company commenced a PEA which is expected to be completed early in the first quarter of 2025. Subject to receipt of a positive PEA and necessary permits and approvals, mining of the Springbok Zone could begin to contribute to gold production at Otjikoto as early as 2028. An initial budget of up to $10 million has been approved to de-risk the Antelope deposit development schedule by advancing early work planning, project permits and long lead orders. Exploration of the greater Antelope deposit has the potential to supplement the processing of low-grade stockpiles at Otjikoto, with an initial goal of adding between 80,000Â and 90,000 ounces of additional gold production per year from 2029 through 2032, with potential to extend mine life further through additional drilling at the Springbok and Oryx Zones at the Antelope deposit.
- Feasibility Study on the Gramalote Project in Colombia targeted for completion in mid-2025: The positive PEA results on the Company's 100% owned Gramalote Project, completed in the second quarter of 2024, outlined a significant production profile with average annual gold production of 234,000 ounces per year for the first five years of production, and strong project economics over a 12.5 year project life. As a result, B2Gold commenced work on a feasibility study with the goal of completion in mid-2025. Feasibility work including geotechnical investigation, processing design and site infrastructure design is underway and the study remains on schedule.
- Continued focus on exploration investment across B2Gold's prospective land packages: $61 million is budgeted for exploration in 2025 to support organic growth by advancing the Company's pipeline of development, brownfield and greenfield exploration projects, with a considerable portion allocated to continue the significant exploration campaign at the Back River Gold District.
Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Gold Production
Mine-by-mine production in the fourth quarter and full year 2024 was as follows:
Gold Production (ounces) | |||
Mine | Q4 2024 | FY 2024 | FY 2024 Revised Guidance |
Fekola | 84,015 | 392,946 | 420,000 - 450,000 |
Masbate | 49,534 | 194,046 | 175,000 - 195,000 |
Otjikoto | 52,452 | 198,142 | 185,000 - 205,000 |
Equity interest in Calibre ( 1 ) | - | 19,644 | 20,000 |
Total | 186,001 | 804,778 | 800,000 – 870,000 |
(1 ) Subsequent to June 20, 2024, B2Gold no longer recorded attributable production for Calibre.
Fekola Mine – Mali
Q4 2024 | |
Tonnes of ore milled | 2,442,390 |
Grade (grams/tonne) | 1.17 |
Recovery (%) | 91.9 |
Gold production (ounces) | 84,015 |
Gold sold (ounces) | 86,453 |
The Fekola Mine in Mali (owned 80% by the Company and 20% by the State of Mali) produced 84,015 ounces in the fourth quarter, lower than anticipated largely due to delays experienced in accessing higher-grade ore in Fekola Phase 7, a result of lower realized mine production from the Fekola Phase 7 and Cardinal pits during the period. Damage to an excavator and the subsequent need for replacement equipment impacted equipment availability for the first nine months of 2024, reducing tonnes mined, which continued to affect the availability of higher-grade ore of Fekola Phase 7 during the fourth quarter of 2024 resulting in less higher-grade ore processed. Mining and processing of these higher-grade tonnes is now expected in 2025 as equipment availability had returned to full capacity and mining rates were at expected levels at the end of 2024. Despite short term variations, overall mined ore volumes and grades continue to reconcile relatively well with modelled values. The Fekola processing facilities continued to perform as expected with 2.4 million tonnes processed during the fourth quarter of 2024.
For the full year 2024, the Fekola Mine produced 392,946 ounces of gold, below the low-end of its revised annual guidance range of between 420,000 and 450,000 ounces due to the significant delays in accessing the higher-grade ore from Fekola Phase 7. At the end of 2024, equipment availability was at full capacity and mining rates were as expected, positioning Fekola for strong operational performance in 2025. The Fekola Mine and mill are operating without limitations and gold production is being exported for refining as per its regular planned schedule.
Masbate Mine – The Philippines
Q4 2024 | |
Tonnes of ore milled | 2,190,610 |
Grade (grams/tonne) | 0.95 |
Recovery (%) | 74.1 |
Gold production (ounces) | 49,534 |
Gold sold (ounces) | 51,010 |
The Masbate Mine in the Philippines continued its strong performance in the fourth quarter of 2024, producing 49,534 ounces of gold, ahead of expectations, as a result of higher than anticipated mill throughput and slightly higher ore grade than budgeted, partially offset by slightly lower than expected gold recovery.
For the full year 2024, the Masbate Mine produced 194,046 ounces of gold, at the upper end of its revised guidance range of between 175,000 and 195,000 ounces.
Otjikoto Mine – Namibia
Q4 2024 | |
Tonnes of ore milled | 788,536 |
Grade (grams/tonne) | 2.10 |
Recovery (%) | 98.6 |
Gold production (ounces) | 52,452 |
Gold sold (ounces) | 50,330 |
The Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, in which the Company holds a 90% interest, also had a strong performance, producing 52,452 ounces of gold in the fourth quarter of 2024, with production from the Wolfshag underground mine remaining consistent through the quarter.
For the full year 2024, the Otjikoto Mine produced 198,142 ounces of gold, near the mid-point of its revised guidance range of between 185,000 and 205,000 ounces.
Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Gold Revenue / Year-End 2024 Cash and Revolving Credit Facility Balance
For the fourth quarter of 2024, consolidated gold revenue was $500 million on sales of 187,793 ounces at an average realized gold price of $2,661 per ounce. For the full year 2024, consolidated gold revenue was $1.90 billion on sales of 801,524 ounces at an average realized gold price of $2,373 per ounce.
As of December 31, 2024, unaudited cash and cash equivalents totaled approximately $340 million and $400 million had been drawn on the Company's revolving credit facility, leaving $400 million available for future drawdowns, plus a $200 million accordion feature.
2025 Production and Cost Guidance
Guidance (100% Basis) (1) | Fekola Complex (2) | Masbate | Otjikoto | Existing Operations Total | Goose | Other | Operations & Projects Total | |
Period | Full Year | Full Year | Full Year | Full Year | H1 | H2 (3) | Full Year | Full Year |
Gold Production (koz) | 515 – 550 | 170 - 190 | 165 – 185 | 850 - 925 | - | 120 - 150 | - | 970 – 1,075 |
Cash Operating Costs  ($/oz produced) | 845 - 905 | 955 – 1,015 | 695 – 755 | 835 – 895 (4) | - | - | - | - |
Sustaining Capital Expenditures ($M) | 77 | 22 | 13 | 112 | 8 | - | - | 120 |
Deferred Stripping / Underground Development ($M) | 120 | 8 | 16 | 144 | - | - | - | 144 |
Sustaining Mine Exploration Expenditures ($M) | 4 | - | - | 4 | - | 10 | - | 14 |
General & Administrative (incl. Stock Based Compensation) ($M) | 15 | 7 | 6 | 28 | - | - | 66 | 94 |
All-In Sustaining Costs ($/oz sold) | 1,550 – 1,610 | 1,310 – 1,370 | 980 – 1,040 | 1,460 – 1,520 (4) | - | - | - | - |
Growth / Construction Capital Expenditures ($M) | 16 | 17 | - | 33 | 101 | - | 28 | 162 |
Deferred Stripping / Underground Development ($M) | 21 | - | 10 | 31 | 69 | - | - | 100 |
Growth Exploration Expenditures ($M) | 5 | 3 | 7 | 15 | 15 | 7 | 11 | 48 |
Total Growth / Non-Sustaining Capital Expenditures ($M) | 42 | 20 | 17 | 79 | 185 | 7 | 39 | 310 |
(  1  )  Totals may not add due to rounding  . Estimates are based on a $2,250 gold price assumption for 2025.
 (2) The Fekola Complex comprises of the Fekola Mine (Medinandi permit hosting the Fekola and Cardinal pits and the Fekola underground) and Fekola Regional (Anaconda Area (Bantako, Menankoto and Bakolobi permits) and the Dandoko permit).
 (3) Goose Mine operating cash costs, all-in sustaining costs, and capital expenditures estimates for the second half of 2025 will be released in Q2 2025 after the release of  B2Gold's initial  Goose life of mine plan.
 (  4  ) Total cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs do not include estimates for the Goose Mine, which will be updated in Q2 2025 prior to commencement of initial  gold production at the Goose Mine  .
In 2025, B2Gold expects total gold production to be between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces, a significant increase from 2024 production levels primarily due to the scheduled mining and processing of higher-grade ore from the Fekola and Cardinal pits made accessible by the meaningful stripping campaign that was undertaken throughout 2024, the expected contribution from Fekola Regional, the commencement of mining of higher-grade ore at Fekola underground, and the commencement of gold production at the Goose Project by the end of the second quarter of 2025.
The Company's full year total cash operating costs for the Fekola Complex, Masbate, and Otjikoto are forecast to be between $835 and $895 per ounce and total AISC are forecast to be between $1,460 and $1,520 per ounce. Operating cost guidance for the Goose Project will be released in the second quarter of 2025 (prior to the commencement of initial production), after publication in the first quarter of 2025 of B2Gold's initial Goose Project life of mine plan based on updated Mineral Reserves.
The Company's total gold production is expected to be significantly higher in the second half of 2025, with the commencement of gold production from Fekola Regional and Fekola underground in mid-2025, and the commencement of gold production at the Goose Project expected by the end of the second quarter of 2025.
Fekola Complex – Mali
The Fekola Complex comprises of the Fekola Mine (Medinandi permit hosting the Fekola and Cardinal pits and Fekola underground) and Fekola Regional (Anaconda Area (Bantako, Menankoto, and Bakolobi permits) and the Dandoko permit). The Fekola Complex's total 2025 gold production is anticipated to increase significantly relative to 2024, predominantly due to the contribution of higher-grade ore from Fekola Regional and Fekola underground in mid-2025. Fekola Regional is anticipated to contribute between 20,000 and 25,000 ounces of additional gold production in 2025 through the trucking of open pit ore to the Fekola mill, and between 25,000 and 35,000 ounces of gold production is expected from the mining of higher-grade ore at Fekola underground, with production expected to commence in mid-2025.
The development of Fekola Regional will enhance the overall Fekola Complex life of mine production profile and is expected to extend the mine life of the Fekola Complex. Fekola Regional is anticipated to contribute approximately 180,000 ounces of additional annual gold production in its first four full years of production from 2026 through 2029. Significant exploration potential remains across the Fekola Complex to further extend mine life.
At the Fekola Mine, ore will continue to be mined from the Fekola and Cardinal pits with production of higher-grade ore at Fekola underground expected to commence in mid-2025. Mining and trucking operations at Fekola Regional will commence following the expected receipt of the exploitation license in the first quarter of 2025, with initial gold production expected in mid-2025.
The Fekola Complex is projected to process 9.56 million tonnes of ore during 2025 at an average grade of 1.84 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold with a process gold recovery of 93.4%. Gold production is expected to be weighted approximately 40% to the first half of 2025 and 60% to the second half of 2025.
Capital expenditures in 2025 at Fekola are expected to total approximately $234 million, nearly a $75 million reduction from total estimated capital expenditures in 2024. Approximately $197 million would be classified as sustaining capital expenditures and $37 million would be classified as growth capital expenditures. Sustaining capital expenditures are expected to include approximately:
- $106 million for deferred stripping;
- $44 million for new and replacement Fekola mining equipment;
- $15 million for tailings storage facility construction;
- $14 million for underground development;
- $7 million for other mining costs;
- $5 million for general site expenses;
- $4 million for powerhouse; and
- $2 million for process plant.
Growth capital expenditures are expected to include approximately:
- $21 million for underground development;
- $14 million for regional development; and
- $2 million for mining equipment.
Masbate Mine – The Philippines
Gold production at Masbate is expected to be relatively consistent throughout 2025. Masbate is projected to process 8.0 million tonnes of ore at an average grade of 0.88 g/t gold with a process gold recovery of 79.9%. Mill feed will be a blend of mined fresh ore from the Main Vein pit and low-grade ore stockpiles.
Capital expenditures for 2025 at Masbate are expected to total $47 million, similar to total estimated capital expenditures in 2024. Approximately $30 million would be classified as sustaining capital expenditures and $17 million would be classified as growth capital expenditures. Sustaining capital expenditures are expected to include approximately:
- $8 million for deferred stripping;
- $7 million for mining equipment rebuilds and replacements;
- $6 million for construction of a new solar plant;
- $5 million for tailings storage facility construction;
- $3 million for processing; and
- $1 million for general site expenses.
Growth capital expenditures are expected to include approximately $13 million for Pajo pit land acquisition and $4 million for Pajo development.
Otjikoto Mine – Namibia
Gold production at Otjikoto will be weighted towards the first half of 2025 due to the conclusion of open pit mining activities in the third quarter of 2025. For the full year 2025, Otjikoto is projected to process a total of 3.4 million tonnes of ore at an average grade of 1.63 g/t gold with a process gold recovery of 98.0%. Processed ore will be sourced from the Otjikoto pit and the Wolfshag underground mine, supplemented by existing ore stockpiles. Open pit mining operations are scheduled to conclude in the third quarter of 2025, while underground mining operations at Wolfshag are expected to continue into 2027. Exploration results received to date indicate the potential to extend underground production at Wolfshag past 2027, supplementing the processing operations into 2032 when economically viable stockpiles are forecast to be exhausted.
Following the 2024 release of an initial Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate for the Springbok Zone, the southernmost shoot of the recently discovered Antelope deposit, located approximately three km south of the Otjikoto Phase 5 open pit at the Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, the Company commenced a PEA which is expected to be completed early in the first quarter of 2025. Subject to receipt of a positive PEA and necessary permits and approvals, mining of the Springbok Zone could begin to contribute to gold production at Otjikoto as early as 2028. An initial budget of up to $10 million has been approved to de-risk the Antelope deposit development schedule by advancing early work planning, project permits and long lead orders. Exploration of the greater Antelope deposit has the potential to supplement the processing of ore stockpiles at the Otjikoto Mine, with an initial goal of adding between 80,000Â and 90,000 ounces of additional gold production per year from 2029 through 2032, with potential to extend mine life further through additional drilling at the Springbok and Oryx Zones at the Antelope deposit.
Capital expenditures in 2025 at Otjikoto are expected to total $39 million, a small increase from total estimated capital expenditures in 2024. Approximately $29 million would be classified as sustaining capital expenditures and $10 million would be classified as growth capital expenditures. Sustaining capital expenditures are expected to include approximately:
- $16 million for underground development;
- $7 million for tailings storage facility construction; and
- $6 million for mining equipment replacement and rebuilds.
Growth capital expenditures are expected to include approximately $10 million to initiate Antelope deposit development.
Goose Project – Canada
The Back River Gold District consists of eight mineral claims blocks along an 80 km belt. Construction is underway at the most advanced project in the district, the Goose Project, and has been de-risked with significant infrastructure currently in place.
B2Gold recognizes that respect and collaboration with the Kitikmeot Inuit Association ("KIA") is central to the license to operate in the Back River Gold District and will continue to prioritize developing the project in a manner that recognizes Inuit priorities, addresses concerns, and brings long-term socio-economic benefits to the Kitikmeot Region. B2Gold looks forward to continuing to build on its strong collaboration with the KIA and Kitikmeot Communities.
All planned construction activities in 2024 were completed and project construction and development continue to progress on track for first gold pour at the Goose Project in the second quarter of 2025 followed by ramp up to commercial production in the third quarter of 2025. The Company continues to estimate that gold production in calendar year 2025 will be between 120,000 and 150,000 ounces and that average annual gold production for the six year period from 2026 to 2031 inclusive will be approximately 310,000 ounces per year, with the latest published Mineral Reserves supporting a long mine life beyond 2031. The Company remains on track to complete B2Gold's initial Goose Project life of mine plan based on updated Mineral Reserves by the end of the first quarter of 2025.
Following the successful completion of the 2024 sea lift, the construction of the WIR is well underway and expected to be completed on schedule and fully operational before March 2025, allowing for the transportation of all materials from the MLA to the Goose Project site by the end of May 2025.
Development of the open pit and underground remain the Company's primary focus to ensure that adequate material is available for mill startup and that the Echo pit is available for tailings placement. Mining of the Echo pit continues to meet production targets and is anticipated to be ready to receive tailings when the mill starts. The Umwelt underground development remains on schedule for commencement of production by the end of the second quarter of 2025.
As of September 30, 2024, C$1,176 million of construction and mine development cash expenditures (or 76% of the total estimated cash expenditures) had been incurred. Based on its unaudited November 2024 cost report, the Company estimates that approximately 83% of the total estimated cash expenditures to first gold had been incurred as of November 30, 2024. Reconciled total cash expenditures as of December 31, 2024, will be published with the Company's year-end financial statements to be released in February 2025. Based on the construction and mine development cash expenditures incurred to date, combined with the estimated expenditures to be incurred through to the first gold pour in the second quarter of 2025, the Company reiterates the total Goose Project construction and mine development cash expenditure estimate of C$1,540 million, as announced on September 12, 2024.
Gramalote Project – Colombia
On June 18, 2024, the Company announced the results of a positive PEA on its 100% owned Gramalote Project located in the Department of Antioquia, Colombia. The PEA outlines a significant production profile of 234,000 ounces of annual gold production for the first five years, with average annual gold production of 185,000 ounces over a 12.5 year project life with a low-cost structure and favorable metallurgical characteristics. Additionally, the PEA outlines strong project economics with an after-tax NPV 5% of $778 million and an after-tax internal rate of return of 20.6%, with a project payback on pre-production capital of 3.1 years at a long-term gold price of $2,000 per ounce.
The pre-production capital cost for the project was estimated to be $807 million (including approximately $93 million for mining equipment and $63 million for contingency). A robust amount of historical drilling and engineering studies have been completed on the Gramalote Project, which significantly de-risks future project development. Based on the positive results from the PEA, B2Gold believes that the Gramalote Project has the potential to become a medium-scale, low-cost open pit gold mine.
B2Gold has commenced feasibility work with the goal of completing a feasibility study in mid-2025. Due to the work completed for previous studies, the work remaining to finalize a feasibility study for the updated medium-scale project is not expected to be extensive. The main work programs for the feasibility study include geotechnical and environmental site investigations for the processing plant and waste dump footprints, as well as capital and operating cost estimates. Those work programs, as well as processing engineering and site infrastructure design, are underway and the study is on schedule.
The Gramalote Project will continue to advance resettlement programs, establish coexistence programs for small miners, work on health, safety and environmental projects and continue to work with the government and local communities on social programs.
Due to the desired modifications to the processing plant and infrastructure locations, a Modified Environment Impact Study is required. B2Gold has commenced work on the modifications to the Environment Impact Study and expect it to be completed and submitted shortly following the completion of the feasibility study. If the final economics of the feasibility study are positive and B2Gold makes the decision to develop the Gramalote Project as an open pit gold mine, B2Gold would utilize its proven internal mine construction team to build the mine and mill facilities.
Capital expenditures in 2025 at Gramalote are expected to be relatively stable throughout the year, totaling $28 million related primarily to feasibility study costs and ongoing care and maintenance.
Exploration
B2Gold is planning another year of extensive exploration in 2025 with a budget of approximately $61 million. A significant focus will be on exploration at the Back River Gold District, with the goal of enhancing and growing the significant resource base at the Goose Project and surrounding regional targets. In Namibia, the exploration program at the Otjikoto Mine will be focused on enhancing and increasing the resources at the Antelope deposit. In Mali, an ongoing focus will be on discovery of additional high-grade, sulphide mineralization across the Fekola Complex. In the Philippines, the exploration program at Masbate will continue to focus on new targets located south of the Masbate Mine infrastructure. Early stage exploration programs will continue in the Philippines, Cote d'Ivoire and Kazakhstan in 2025. Finally, the search for new joint ventures and strategic investment opportunities will continue, building on existing equity investments in Snowline Gold Corp., Founders Metals Inc., AuMEGA Metals Ltd., and Prospector Metals Corp.
Canada Exploration
A total of $32 million is budgeted for exploration at the Back River Gold District in 2025, of which $21 million is planned for the more advanced Goose Project. A total of 12,000 meters ("m") of drilling will target extensions of the Llama and Umwelt deposits, the largest and highest-grade resources at the Goose Project. In addition, follow up drilling of significant results returned at the Nuvuyak, Mammoth and Hook targets are planned.
Regional exploration including geophysics, mapping, prospecting and till sampling will be undertaken on the George, Boot, Boulder, Del, Beech and Needle projects. This regional work will also include an estimated 13,000 m of diamond drilling to follow up drill ready targets defined during the 2024 summer regional exploration program. A significantly increased budget of $11 million is being allocated for the regional projects.
Mali Exploration
A total of $9 million is budgeted for exploration in Mali in 2025 with an ongoing focus on discovery of additional high-grade, sulphide mineralization across the Fekola Complex to supplement feed to the Fekola mill. A total of 16,000 m of diamond and reverse circulation drilling is planned for Mali in 2025.
Namibia Exploration
A total of $7 million is budgeted for exploration at Otjikoto in 2025. The focus of the exploration program will be drilling to expand and refine the recently discovered Antelope deposit, located approximately 3 km south of Phase 5 of the Otjikoto open pit, with a total of 44,000 m of drilling planned.
The Philippines Exploration
The total budget for the Philippines in 2025 is approximately $5 million, of which the Masbate exploration budget is $3 million, including approximately 4,200 m of drilling. The 2025 exploration program will continue to focus on exploration of new regional targets located south of the main mine infrastructure at Masbate.
An additional $2 million will be allocated to targeting new regional projects in highly prospective areas in the Philippines, leveraging off B2Gold's presence and operational experience in the country. A total of 2,000 m is allocated to testing new projects.
Grassroots Exploration
B2Gold has allocated approximately $9 million to other grassroots exploration projects in 2025. This includes $2 million (7,200 m) in Kazakhstan, $2 million in Finland, and $1 million (1,000 m) in Cote d'Ivoire. In addition to the defined programs noted above, the Company has allocated approximately $4 million for the generation and evaluation of new greenfield targets.
About B2Gold
B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Founded in 2007, today, B2Gold has operating gold mines in Mali, Namibia and the Philippines, the Goose Project under construction in northern Canada and numerous development and exploration projects in various countries including Mali, Colombia and Finland. B2Gold forecasts total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025.
Qualified Persons
Bill Lytle, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information related to operations matters contained in this news release.
Andrew Brown, P. Geo., Vice President, Exploration, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information related to exploration and mineral resource matters contained in this news release.
ON BEHALF OF B2GOLD CORP.
"Clive T. Johnson"
President and Chief Executive Officer
Source: B2Gold Corp.
The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release.
Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 14, 2024 for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates.
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining) and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets on a consolidated and mine by mine basis; future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, gold recovery rates, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: remaining well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance in 2025; projected gold production, cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") on a consolidated and mine by mine basis in 2025 for the Fekola Complex, the Otjikoto Mine, the Masbate Gold Project and the Goose Project; total consolidated cash operating costs of between $835 and $895 per ounce and AISC of between $1,420 and $1,480 per ounce in 2024; total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025, with cash operating costs of between $835 and $895 per ounce and AISC of between $1,460 and $1,520 per ounce; B2Gold's continued prioritization of developing the Goose Project in a manner that recognizes Indigenous input and concerns and brings long-term socio-economic benefits to the area; the Goose Project capital cost being approximately C$1,190 million and the net cost of open pit and underground development, deferred stripping, and sustaining capital expenditures to be incurred prior to first gold production being approximately C$350 million and the cost for reagents and other working capital items being C$330 million; the Goose Project producing approximately 310,000 ounces of gold per year for the first six years; the potential for first gold production in the second quarter of 2025 from the Goose Project and the estimates of such production; trucking of selective higher-grade saprolite material from the Anaconda Area to the Fekola mill having the potential to generate approximately 80,000 to 100,000 ounces of additional gold production per year from Fekola Regional sources; the receipt of the exploitation permit for Fekola Regional and Fekola Regional production expected to commence in the second quarter of 2025; the receipt of a permit for Fekola underground and Fekola underground commencing operation in mid-2025; the potential for the Antelope deposit to be developed as an underground operation and contribute gold during the low-grade stockpile processing in 2029 through 2032; the results and estimates in the Gramalote PEA, including the project life, average annual gold production, processing rate, capital cost, net present value, after-tax net cash flow, after-tax internal rate of return and payback; the timing and results of a feasibility study on the Gramalote Project; the potential to develop the Gramalote Project as an open pit gold mine; and planned 2025 exploration budgets for Canada, Mali, Namibia, The Philippines, Finland, Cote D'Ivoire and other grassroots projects. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.
Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility and other studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines and Colombia and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; risks affecting Calibre having an impact on the value of the Company's investment in Calibre, and potential dilution of our equity interest in Calibre; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
Non-IFRS Measures
This news release includes certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), including "cash operating costs" and "all-in sustaining costs" (or "AISC"). Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The projected range of AISC is anticipated to be adjusted to include sustaining capital expenditures, corporate administrative expense, mine-site exploration and evaluation costs and reclamation cost accretion and amortization, and exclude the effects of expansionary capital and non-sustaining expenditures. Projected GAAP total production cash costs for the full year would require inclusion of the projected impact of future included and excluded items, including items that are not currently determinable, but may be significant, such as sustaining capital expenditures, reclamation cost accretion and amortization. Due to the uncertainty of the likelihood, amount and timing of any such items, B2Gold does not have information available to provide a quantitative reconciliation of projected AISC to a total production cash costs projection. B2Gold believes that this measure represents the total costs of producing gold from current operations, and provides B2Gold and other stakeholders of the Company with additional information of B2Gold's operational performance and ability to generate cash flows. AISC, as a key performance measure, allows B2Gold to assess its ability to support capital expenditures and to sustain future production from the generation of operating cash flows. This information provides management with the ability to more actively manage capital programs and to make more prudent capital investment decisions.
The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS and should be read in conjunction with B2Gold's consolidated financial statements. Readers should refer to B2Gold's Management Discussion and Analysis, available on the Websites, under the heading "Non-IFRS Measures" for a more detailed discussion of how B2Gold calculates certain such measures and a reconciliation of certain measures to IFRS terms.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Mineral Reserve and Resource Estimates
The disclosure in this news release was prepared in accordance with Canadian standards for the reporting of mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates, which differ in some material respects from the disclosure requirements of United States securities laws. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the terms "mineral reserve", "proven mineral reserve", "probable mineral reserve", "inferred mineral resources,", "indicated mineral resources," "measured mineral resources" and "mineral resources" used or referenced in this prospectus, any prospectus supplement and the documents incorporated by reference herein or therein are Canadian mineral disclosure terms as defined in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (the "CIM") - CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, adopted by the CIM Council, as amended (the "CIM Definition Standards"). The definitions of these terms, and other mining terms and disclosures, differ from the definitions of such terms, if any, for purposes of the SEC's disclosure rules the SEC for domestic United States Issuers (the "SEC Rules"), (the "Exchange Act"). Accordingly, mineral reserve and mineral resource information and other technical information contained in this news release may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by United States companies subject to the SEC's reporting and disclosure requirements for domestic United States issuers.
Historical results or feasibility models presented herein are not guarantees or expectations of future performance. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Due to the uncertainty of measured, indicated or inferred mineral resources, these mineral resources may never be upgraded to proven and probable mineral reserves. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves or recovered. In addition, United States investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of B2Gold's measured, indicated or inferred mineral resources constitute or will be converted into mineral reserves or are or will be economically or legally mineable without additional work.
For more information on B2Gold please visit the Company website at www.b2gold.com or contact: Michael McDonald VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Development +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com Cherry De Geer Director, Corporate Communications +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com
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Kinross to announce 2024 Q4/full-year results and 2025 guidance on February 12, 2025
Kinross Gold Corporation (TSX: K; NYSE: KGC) (the "Company") will release its 2024 fourth-quarter and full-year financial statements and operating results on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, after market close. The Company will also provide its full-year 2025 guidance, mineral reserve, and mineral resource statement as of December 31, 2024, and an exploration and project update. Kinross will hold a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET to present the results, followed by a question-and-answer session.
The call-in numbers for the conference call on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET are as follows:
Canada & US toll-free – +1 (888) 596-4144; Passcode: 8057299
Outside of Canada & US – +1 (646) 968-2525; Passcode: 8057299
Replay (available up to 14 days after the call):
Canada & US toll-free – +1 (800) 770-2030; Passcode: 8057299
Outside of Canada & US – +1 (647) 362-9199; Passcode: 8057299
You may also access the conference call on a listen-only basis via webcast at our website www.kinross.com . The audio webcast will be archived on www.kinross.com .
Kinross' quarterly reporting schedule for the remainder of 2025 will be as follows:
- Q1 2025 – Tuesday, May 6, 2025; financial statements and operating results will be released after market close. A conference call and audio webcast will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7:45 a.m. ET.
- Annual Meeting of Shareholders – Wednesday, May 7, 2025; the meeting will be held at 10 a.m. ET.
- Q2 2025 – Wednesday, July 30, 2025; financial statements and operating results will be released after market close. A conference call and audio webcast will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET.
- Q3 2025 – Tuesday, November 4, 2025; financial statements and operating results will be released after market close. A conference call and audio webcast will be held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET.
About Kinross Gold Corporation
Kinross is a Canadian-based global senior gold mining company with operations and projects in the United States, Brazil, Mauritania, Chile and Canada. Our focus is on delivering value based on the core principles of responsible mining, operational excellence, disciplined growth, and balance sheet strength. Kinross maintains listings on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol: K) and the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: KGC).
Media Contact
Victoria Barrington
Senior Director, Corporate Communications
phone: 289-455-1950
victoria.barrington@kinross.com
Investor Relations Contact
David Shaver
Senior Vice-President
phone: 416-365-2761
InvestorRelations@kinross.com
Source: Kinross Gold Corp.
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
Kinross to announce 2024 Q4/full-year results and 2025 guidance on February 12, 2025
Kinross Gold Corporation (TSX: K; NYSE: KGC) (the "Company") will release its 2024 fourth-quarter and full-year financial statements and operating results on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, after market close. The Company will also provide its full-year 2025 guidance, mineral reserve, and mineral resource statement as of December 31, 2024, and an exploration and project update. Kinross will hold a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET to present the results, followed by a question-and-answer session.
The call-in numbers for the conference call on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET are as follows:
Canada & US toll-free – +1 (888) 596-4144; Passcode: 8057299
Outside of Canada & US – +1 (646) 968-2525; Passcode: 8057299
Replay (available up to 14 days after the call):
Canada & US toll-free – +1 (800) 770-2030; Passcode: 8057299
Outside of Canada & US – +1 (647) 362-9199; Passcode: 8057299
You may also access the conference call on a listen-only basis via webcast at our website www.kinross.com . The audio webcast will be archived on www.kinross.com .
Kinross' quarterly reporting schedule for the remainder of 2025 will be as follows:
- Q1 2025 – Tuesday, May 6, 2025; financial statements and operating results will be released after market close. A conference call and audio webcast will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7:45 a.m. ET.
- Annual Meeting of Shareholders – Wednesday, May 7, 2025; the meeting will be held at 10 a.m. ET.
- Q2 2025 – Wednesday, July 30, 2025; financial statements and operating results will be released after market close. A conference call and audio webcast will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET.
- Q3 2025 – Tuesday, November 4, 2025; financial statements and operating results will be released after market close. A conference call and audio webcast will be held on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET.
About Kinross Gold Corporation
Kinross is a Canadian-based global senior gold mining company with operations and projects in the United States, Brazil, Mauritania, Chile and Canada. Our focus is on delivering value based on the core principles of responsible mining, operational excellence, disciplined growth, and balance sheet strength. Kinross maintains listings on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol: K) and the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: KGC).
Media Contact
Victoria Barrington
Senior Director, Corporate Communications
phone: 289-455-1950
victoria.barrington@kinross.com
Investor Relations Contact
David Shaver
Senior Vice-President
phone: 416-365-2761
InvestorRelations@kinross.com
Source: Kinross Gold Corp.
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
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