Silvercorp Reports Net Income of $46.4 Million, $0.27 per Share, and Cash Flow From Operations of $85.9 Million for Fiscal 2021

Trading Symbol:  TSX:   SVM
  NYSE AMERICAN: SVM

Silvercorp Metals Inc. ("Silvercorp" or the "Company") (TSX: SVM) (NYSE American: SVM) reported its financial and operating results for the fourth quarter and twelve months ended March 31, 2021 ("Fiscal 2021). All amounts are expressed in US Dollars, and figures may not add due to rounding.

Silvercorp Metals Inc. (CNW Group/Silvercorp Metals Inc)

FISCAL YEAR 2021 HIGHLIGHTS

  • Mined 964,925 tonnes of ore and milled 967,581 tonnes of ore, up 9% and 8%, respectively, compared to the prior year, with silver and lead production meeting the production guidance and zinc production beating the production guidance;
  • Sold approximately 6.3 million ounces of silver, 4,700 ounces of gold, 67.1 million pounds of lead, and 27.9 million pounds of zinc, up 1%, 42%, 3%, and 10%, respectively, compared to the prior year;
  • Revenue of $192.1 million , up 21% or $33.3 million compared to $158.8 million in the prior year;
  • Net income attributable to equity shareholders of $46.4 million , or $0.27 per share, up 35% compared to $34.3 million , or $0.20 per share in the prior year;
  • Cash cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, of negative $1.80 compared to negative $1.91 in the prior year;
  • All-in sustaining cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, of $7.49 , compared to $6.86 in the prior year;
  • Cash flow from operations of $85.9 million , up 11% or $8.7 million compared to $77.2 million in the prior year;
  • Received $6.5 million ( CAD$9.0 million ) break fee from Guyana Goldfields Inc. ("Guyana Goldfields") and realized a gain of $15.4 million on disposal of the shares of Guyana Goldfields;
  • Paid $4.4 million of dividends to the Company's shareholders;
  • Invested $5.8 million in a private placement of New Pacific Metals Corp. ("NUAG") to maintain the Company's ownership interest;
  • Acquired a 26.99% interest in Whitehorse Gold Corp. ("WHG"), having a fair market value of $15.1 million as at March 31, 2021 , as a result of (a) receiving 5,740,285 WHG common shares under a spin-out transaction completed by NUAG, and (b) subscribing for 5,774,000 WHG common shares at total cost of $1.3 million under a private placement;
  • Won an online auction to acquire the exploration rights to the Zhonghe Silver Project from the Henan provincial government of China , with the mineral rights transfer contract pending the national security clearance by the related authorities;
  • Acquired a 43.8% interest in the La Yesca Silver Project in Mexico through a new corporate structure, New Infini Silver Inc. for approximately $9.1 million ; and
  • Strong balance sheet with $199.1 million in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, an increase of $56.6 million or 40% compared to $142.5 million as at March 31, 2020 . This does not include $212.1 million in total market value of investments in associates and equity investments in other companies as at March 31, 2021 .

HIGHLIGHTS FOR Q4 FISCAL 2021

  • Mined 163,072 tonnes of ore and milled 180,674 tonnes of ore, up 53% and 76%, respectively, compared to the prior year quarter;
  • Sold approximately 1.1 million ounces of silver, 700 ounces of gold, 10.9 million pounds of lead, and 4.6 million pounds of zinc, up 32%, 40%, 13%, and 50% respectively, compared to approximately 0.8 million ounces of silver, 500 ounces of gold, 9.7 million pounds of lead, and 3.1 million pounds of zinc in the prior year quarter;
  • Revenue of $35.7 million , up 89% or $16.8 million compared to $18.9 million in the prior year quarter;
  • Net income attributable to equity shareholders of $7.0 million , or $0.04 per share, compared to $3.2 million or $0.02 per share, in the prior year quarter;
  • Cash cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, of negative $0.39 compared to negative $0.85 in the prior year quarter;
  • All-in sustaining cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, of $12.55 , compared to $15.17 in the prior year quarter; and
  • Cash flow from operations of $2.2 million , compared to $6.3 million in the prior year quarter. The decrease was mainly due to $9.4 million use of cash from working capital changes. Before changes in non-cash working capital, cash flows provided by operating activities in the current quarter were $11.9 million , up $2.7 million compared to $9.2 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL RESULTS


Three months ended March 31,


Year ended March 31,


2021

2020

Changes


2021

2020

Changes

Financial








Revenue (in thousands of $)

$

35,732

$

18,859

89%


$

192,105

$

158,829

21%

Mine operating earnings (in thousands of $)

13,404

3,204

318%


84,162

59,374

42%

Net earnings attributable to equity shareholders

7,021

3,163

122%


46,376

34,274

35%

Earning per share - basic ($/share)

0.04

0.02

100%


0.27

0.20

35%

Net cash generated from operating activities (in thousands of $)

2,231

6,278

-64%


85,912

77,246

11%

Capitalized expenditures (in thousands of $)

10,115

3,917

158%


45,556

33,671

35%

Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments (in thousands of $)

199,092

142,519

40%


199,092

142,519

40%

Working capital (in thousands of $)

184,013

130,351

41%


184,013

130,351

41%

Metals sold








Silver (in thousands of ounces)

1,056

800

32%


6,315

6,257

1%

Gold (in thousands of ounces)

0.7

0.5

40%


4.7

3.3

42%

Lead (in thousands of pounds)

10,876

9,654

13%


67,118

65,344

3%

Zinc (in thousands of pounds)

4,580

3,059

50%


27,914

25,401

10%

Average Selling Price, Net of Value Added Tax and Smelter Charges








Silver ($/ounce)

20.11

12.29

64%


17.61

13.56

30%

Gold ($/ounce)

1,437

1,250

15%


1,430

1,185

21%

Lead ($/pound)

0.81

0.67

21%


0.75

0.80

-6%

Zinc ($/pound)

0.98

0.51

92%


0.78

0.62

26%

1.   Fiscal 2021 Financial Results

Net income attributable to equity shareholders of the Company in Fiscal 2021 was $46.4 million or $0 .27 per share, up 35% or $12.1 million , compared to $34.3 million or $0 .20 per share in Fiscal 2020.

In Fiscal 2021, the Company's consolidated financial results were mainly impacted by i) an increase of 1%, 42%, 3%, and 10%, respectively, in silver, gold, lead and zinc sold; ii) an increase of 30%, 21%, and 26%, respectively, in the realized selling prices for silver, gold and zinc; iii) a $7.7 million gain on equity investment; offset by iv) a decrease of 6% in the realized selling price for lead, and v) a $7.7 million foreign exchange loss.

Revenue in Fiscal 2021 was $192.1 million , up 21% or $33.3 million compared to $158.8 million in Fiscal 2020. The increase was mainly due to i) an increase of $5.9 million arising from the increase in the quantities of metal sold; ii) an increase of $30.2 million arising from the increase in the realized selling price for silver, gold, and zinc; offset by iii) a decrease of $2.8 million arising from the decrease in the realized selling price for lead. Revenues from silver, gold, and base metals were $111.2 million , 6.7 million, and $74.2 million , respectively, up 31%, 72%, and 6%, respectively, compared to $84.9 million , $3.9 million , and $70.0 million in Fiscal 2020. Revenue from the Ying Mining District was $157.3 million , up 20% compared to $131.4 million in Fiscal 2020. Revenue from the GC Mine was $33.3 million , up 21% compared to $27.4 million in Fiscal 2020.

Income from mine operations in Fiscal 2021 was $84.2 million , up 42% compared to $59.4 million in Fiscal 2020. Income from mine operations at the Ying Mining District was $74.2 million , up 37% compared to $54.1 million in Fiscal 2020. Income from mine operations at the GC Mine was $9.8 million , up 72% compared to $5.7 million in Fiscal 2020.

Cash flow provided by operating activities in Fiscal 2021 was $85.9 million , up 11% compared to $77.2 million in Fiscal 2020.

The Company ended the fiscal year with $199.1 million in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, up 40% or $56.6 million , compared to $142.5 million as at March 31, 2020 .

Working capital as at March 31, 2021 was $184.0 million , up 41% or $53.6 million , compared to $130.4 million as at March 31, 2020 .

2.   Q4 Fiscal 2021 Financial Results

Net income attributable to equity shareholders of the Company in Q4 Fiscal 2021 was $7.0 million , or $0.04 per share, up 122% or $3.9 million , compared to $3.2 million , or $0.02 per share in the three months ended March 31, 2020 ("Q4 Fiscal 2020").

Compared to the prior year quarter, the Company's consolidated financial results in Q4 Fiscal 2021 were mainly impacted by the following: i) an increase of 32%, 40%, 13%, and 50%, respectively, in silver, gold, lead and zinc sold; ii) an increase of 64%, 15%, 21%, and 92%, respectively, in the realized selling prices for silver, gold, lead, and zinc; offset by iii) a $0.8 million foreign exchange loss, and iv) a $1.1 million loss on equity investments.

Revenue in Q4 Fiscal 2021 was $35.7 million , up 89% or $16.8 million , compared to $18.9 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020. The increase was mainly due to i) an increase of $7.7 million arising from the increase in the quantities of metal sold; and ii) an increase of $9.1 million arising from the increase in the realized selling prices. Revenue from silver, gold, and base metals was $21.2 million , 1.0 million, and $13.5 million , respectively, up 116%, 61%, and 61%, respectively, compared to $9.8 million , $0.6 million , and $8.4 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020. Revenue from the Ying Mining District was $29.5 million , up 88% compared to $15.7 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020. Revenue from the GC Mine was $6.3 million , up 97% compared to $3.2 million in Fiscal 2020.

Income from mine operations in Q4 Fiscal 2021 was $13.4 million , up 319% compared to $3.2 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020. Income from mine operations at the Ying Mining District was $11.8 million , compared to $3.0 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020. Income from mine operations at the GC Mine was $1.6 million , compared to $0.2 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020.

Cash flows provided by operating activities in Q4 Fiscal 2021 were $2.2 million , compared to $6.3 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020. The decrease was mainly due to $9.4 million use of cash from working capital changes. Before changes in non-cash working capital, cash flows provided by operating activities in the current quarter were $11.9 million , up $2.7 million compared to $9.2 million in Q4 Fiscal 2020.

CONSOLIDATED   OPERATIONAL RESULTS


Three months ended March 31,


Year ended March 31,


2021

2020

Changes


2021

2020

Changes

Ore Production (tonne)








Ore mined

163,072

106,595

53%


964,925

885,830

9%

Ore milled

180,674

102,431

76%


967,581

892,215

8%

Metal Production








Silver (in thousands of ounces)

1,195

696

72%


6,330

6,291

1%

Gold (in thousands of ounces)

0.3

0.2

50%


3.5

3.3

6%

Lead (in thousands of pounds)

12,156

7,772

56%


68,430

67,373

2%

Zinc (in thousands of pounds)

4,672

3,276

43%


28,012

25,581

10%

Cash Costs








Cash cost per ounce of Silver, net of by-product credits ($)

(0.39)

(0.85)

54%


(1.80)

(1.91)

6%

All-in sustaining cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits ($)

12.55

15.17

-17%


7.49

6.86

9%

Cash production cost per tonne of ore processed ($)

85.70

68.93

24%


72.71

68.91

6%

All-in sustaining cost per tonne of ore processed ($)

156.36

188.57

-17%


128.20

125.29

2%

1.   Fiscal 2021 Operational Results

In Fiscal 2021, on a consolidated basis, the Company mined 964,925 tonnes of ore, up 9% or 79,095 tonnes, compared to 885,830 tonnes in Fiscal 2020. Ore milled in Fiscal 2021 was 967,581 tonnes, up 8% or 75,367 tonnes, compared to 892,215 tonnes in Fiscal 2020.

The Company produced approximately 6.3 million ounces of silver, 3,500 ounces of gold, 68.4 million pounds of lead, and 28.0 million pounds of zinc, up 1%, 6%, 2%, and 10%, respectively, compared to 6.3 million ounces of silver, 3,300 ounces of gold, 67.4 million pounds of lead, and 25.6 million pounds of zinc in Fiscal 2020.

In Fiscal 2021, the consolidated cash production cost per tonne of ore processed in Fiscal 2021 was $72.71 , up 6% compared to $68.91 in Fiscal 2020, in line with the Company's annual guidance. The consolidated all-in sustaining production cost per tonne of ore processed was $128.20 , an increase of 2% compared to $125.29 in Fiscal 2020, also in line with the Company's annual guidance.

The consolidated cash cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, was negative $1.80 , compared to negative $1.91 in the prior year. The increase was mainly due to an increase of 6% in cash production cost per tonne of ore processed, offset by an increase of $0.99 in by-product credits per ounce of silver. Sales from lead and zinc in Fiscal 2021 amounted to $72.3 million , up 7% or $4.6 million , compared to $67.7 million in Fiscal 2020.

The consolidated all-in sustaining cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, was $7.49 , compared to $6.86 in Fiscal 2020. The increase was mainly due to an increase of 2% in all-in sustaining production cost per tonne of ore processed, offset by an increase of $0.99 in by-product credits per ounce of silver.

In Fiscal 2021, on a consolidated basis, a total of 254,900 metres or $8.7 million worth of diamond drilling were completed (Fiscal 2020 – 108,156 metres or $3.5 million ), of which approximately 196,320 metres or $5.0 million worth of underground drilling were expensed as part of mining costs (Fiscal 2020 – 108,156 metres or $3.5 million ) and approximately 58,580 metres or $3.7 million worth of surface drilling were capitalized (Fiscal 2020 – nil). Mining preparation tunnelling of 34,637 metres that costed $8.9 million was completed and expensed as part of mining costs (Fiscal 2020 – 38,403 m or $10.3 million ), and 85,221 metres or $31.5 million worth of tunnels, raises, ramps and declines (Fiscal 2020 – 73,567 metres or $26.3 million ) were completed and capitalized.

2.   Q4 Fiscal 2021 Operational Results

In Q4 Fiscal 2021, the Company mined 163,072 tonnes of ore, up 53% or 56,477 tonnes, compared to 106,595 tonnes in Q4 Fiscal 2020. Ore milled in Q4 Fiscal 2021 was 180,674 tonnes, up 76% or 78,243 tonnes, compared to 102,431 tonnes in Q4 Fiscal 2020. The increase was mainly due to an extra month's operational shutdown due to COVID-19 in Q4 Fiscal 2020.

The Company produced approximately 1.2 million ounces of silver, 300 ounces of gold, 12.2 million pounds of lead, and 4.7 million pounds of zinc, up 72%, 50%, 56%, and 43%, respectively, compared to approximately 0.7 million ounces of silver, 200 ounces of gold, 7.8 million pounds of lead, and 3.3 million pounds of zinc in Q4 Fiscal 2020.

In Q4 Fiscal 2021, the consolidated cash production cost per tonne of ore processed was $85.70 , up 24% compared to $68.93 in Q4 Fiscal 2020. The increase was mainly due to certain fixed overhead costs related to mining operations expensed directly as mine general and administrative expense during the extra month operational shut-down in Q4 Fiscal 2020. The consolidated all-in sustaining production cost per tonne was $156.36 , down 17% compared to $188.57 in Q4 Fiscal 2020.The decrease was mainly due to higher production resulting in lower per tonne fixed costs allocation.

In Q4 Fiscal 2021, the consolidated cash cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, was negative $0.39 , compared to negative $0.85 in Q4 Fiscal 2020. The increase was mainly due to the increase in per tonne cash production cost as discussed above, offset by an increase of $2.44 in by-product credits per ounce of silver.

In Q4 Fiscal 2021, the consolidated all-in sustaining cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, was $12.55 , compared to $15.17 in Q4 Fiscal 2020. The decrease was mainly due to the decrease in per tonne all-in sustaining production cost as discussed above and an increase of $0.18 in all-in sustaining costs per ounce of silver.

In Q4 Fiscal 2021, on a consolidated basis, a total of 49,459 metres or $1.6 million worth of diamond drilling were completed (Q4 Fiscal 2020 – 14,612 metres or $0.5 million ), of which approximately 41,572 metres or $0.8 million worth of underground drilling were expensed as part of mining costs (Q4 Fiscal 2020 – 14,612 metres or $0.5 million ), and approximately 7,887 metres or $0.8 million worth of surface drilling) were capitalized (Q4 Fiscal 2020 – nil. Mining preparation tunnelling of 7,015 metres that costed $1.5 million was completed and expensed as part of mining costs (Q4 Fiscal 2020 – 2,163 metres or $0.7 million ), and 10,803 metres or $4.7 million worth of tunnels, raises, ramps and declines were completed and capitalized (Q4 Fiscal 2020 – 9,830 metres or $4.3 million ).

INDIVIDUAL MINE OPERATING PERFORMANCE

Ying Mining District

Q4 2021

Q3 2021

Q2 2021

Q1 2021

Q4 2020


Year ended Mar 31,


March 31, 2021

December 31, 2020

September 30, 2020

June 30, 2020

March 31, 2020


2021

2020

Ore Production (tonne)









Ore mined

112,561

182,268

181,020

174,176

69,379


650,025

598,197

Ore milled

131,725

162,905

179,083

177,689

69,188


651,402

601,605

Head grades









Silver (gram/tonne)

280

297

288

293

297


290

309

Lead (%)

3.9

4.3

4.4

4.6

4.6


4.3

4.6

Zinc (%)

0.8

0.8

0.7

0.8

1.0


0.8

0.9

Recovery rates









Silver (%)

93.7

93.9

94.4

94.7

95.3


94.2

96.0

Lead (%)

95.1

96.4

96.1

96.2

95.7


96.0

95.9

Zinc (%)

65.0

63.3

57.9

63.8

67.7


62.4

63.2

Cash Costs









Cash cost per ounce of Silver, net of by-product credits ($)

1.20

(1.12)

(0.14)

(0.87)

0.30


(0.39)

(1.18)

All-in sustaining cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits ($)

10.00

5.24

6.63

4.14

11.86


6.09

5.49

Cash production cost per tonne of ore processed ($)

98.13

83.09

80.06

76.21

83.59


83.01

77.08

All-in sustaining cost per tonne of ore processed ($)

155.14

133.07

132.36

116.99

195.78


132.54

132.52

Metal Production









Silver (in thousands of ounces)

1,083

1,464

1,525

1,544

614


5,615

5,592

Gold (in thousands of ounces)

0.3

0.9

1.1

1.2

0.2


3.5

3.3

Lead (in thousands of pounds)

10,504

14,361

16,080

16,941

6,573


57,886

56,436

Zinc (in thousands of pounds)

1,496

1,857

1,643

1,920

999


6,916

7,337

In Fiscal 2021, a total of 208,904 metres or $6.9 million worth of diamond drilling (Fiscal 2020 – 85,643 metres or $2.5 million ) were completed at the Ying Mining District, of which a total of 150,324 metres or $3.2 million worth of underground diamond drilling (Fiscal 2020 – 85,643 or $2.5 million ) were expensed as part of mining costs and a total of 58,580 metres or $3.7 million worth of surface drilling (Fiscal 2020 – nil) were capitalized. In addition, mining preparation tunnelling of 22,918 metres that costed $6.7 million were completed and expensed as mining preparation costs (Fiscal 2020 – 19,088 metres or $5.7 million ), and approximately 73,350 metres or $27.4 million worth of horizontal tunnels, raises, ramps and declines were completed and capitalized (Fiscal 2020 – 70,240 metres or $23.9 million ).

GC Mine

Q4 2021

Q3 2021

Q2 2021

Q1 2021

Q4 2020


Year ended Mar 31,


March 31, 2021

December 31, 2020

September 30, 2020

June 30, 2020

March 31, 2020


2021

2020

Ore Production (tonne)









Ore mined

50,511

97,177

86,833

80,379

37,216


314,900

287,633

Ore milled

48,949

97,743

84,850

84,637

33,243


316,179

290,610

Head grades









Silver (gram/tonne)

87

82

81

93

94


85

97

Lead (%)

1.7

1.4

1.8

1.9

1.8


1.7

1.9

Zinc (%)

3.3

3.5

3.4

3.4

3.5


3.4

3.3

Recovery rates









Silver (%)

81.9

82.6

82.5

82.8

80.7


82.5

77.4

Lead (%)

89.7

89.6

89.2

89.8

90.4


89.6

89.3

Zinc (%)

88.2

89.7

87.3

87.3

87.7


88.2

86.0

Cash Costs









Cash cost per ounce of Silver, net of by-product credits ($)

(12.80)

(14.43)

(12.70)

(6.59)

(10.03)


(11.48)

(7.65)

All-in sustaining cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits ($)

0.52

(1.05)

(1.78)

2.41

8.31


-

0.77

Cash production cost per tonne of ore processed ($)

58.56

54.07

48.47

47.08

41.94


51.44

51.91

All-in sustaining cost per tonne of ore processed ($)

87.69

78.63

69.07

65.84

88.18


74.09

69.33

Metal Production









Silver (in thousands of ounces)

112

212

182

209

82


716

699

Lead (in thousands of pounds)

1,652

2,750

3,006

3,136

1,199


10,544

10,937

Zinc (in thousands of pounds)

3,176

6,816

5,490

5,613

2,277


21,096

18,244

In Fiscal 2021, approximately 45,996 metres or $1.8 million worth of underground diamond drilling (Fiscal 2020 – 22,513 metres or $1.0 million ) and 11,719 metres or $2.2 million worth of tunnelling (Fiscal 2020 – 19,315 metres or $4.6 million ) were completed and expensed as mining preparation costs at the GC Mine. In addition, approximately 11,871 metres or $3.9 million of horizontal tunnels, raises, ramps, and declines (Fiscal 2020 – 3,327 metres or $2.4 million ) were completed and capitalized.

U PDATE ON MINING CONTRACTS RENEWAL AT THE YING MINING DISCTRICT

The Company updates that the Company has successfully negotiated and renewed contracts with all mining contractors at the Ying Mining District, except one that worked at the LME mine. The renewed contracts with terms of two to three years represent an overall 14.5% increase compared to previous contracts, reflecting i) increased social welfare contribution for the contractors' workers; ii) increased insurance coverage for contractors' workers; and iii) increases in the prices per tonne ore mined and per meter of tunneling developed by contractors. Based on the renewed contracts and assuming the same work done in Fiscal 2021, the total annual increase is estimated at $5.0 million ; however, this is expected to be offset by reduced tunneling going forward as recent drilling activities in previously mining areas has defined resources that require minimal development.

The previous mining contractor at the LME mine was terminated as no agreement was able to reach. The Company has hired most of the previous workers to work at the mine as internal contractors.

CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS

A conference call to discuss these results will be held tomorrow, Friday, May 21 , at 9:00 am PDT ( 12:00 pm EDT ). To participate in the conference call, please dial the numbers below.

Canada / USA TF: 888-664-6383

International Toll: 416-764-8650

Conference ID: 57492576

Participants should dial-in 10 – 15 minutes prior to the start time. A replay of the conference call and transcript will be available on the Company's website at www.silvercorp.ca .

Mr. Guoliang Ma , P.Geo., Manager of Exploration and Resources of the Company, is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and has reviewed and given consent to the technical information contained in this news release.

This earnings release should be read in conjunction with the Company's Management Discussion & Analysis ("MD&A"), Financial Statements and Notes to Financial Statements for the corresponding period, which have been posted on SEDAR under the Company's profile at   www.sedar.com and are also available on the Company's website at www.silvercorp.ca . This earnings release refers to various alternative performance (non-IFRS) measures, such as cash cost and all-in sustaining cost per ounce of silver, net of by-product credits, cash production cost and all-in sustaining production cost per tonne of ore processed, and working capital. These measures are widely used in the mining industry as a benchmark for performance, but do not have standardized meanings under IFRS as an indicator of performance, and may differ from methods used by other companies with similar description. Accordingly, to facilitate a better understanding of these measures as calculated by the Company, please refer to section 12 of the corresponding MD&A for detailed description and reconciliation.

About Silvercorp

Silvercorp is a profitable Canadian mining company producing silver, lead and zinc metals in concentrates from mines in China . The Company's goal is to continuously create healthy returns to shareholders through efficient management, organic growth and the acquisition of profitable projects. Silvercorp balances profitability, social and environmental relationships, employees' wellbeing, and sustainable development. For more information, please visit our website at www.silvercorp.ca .

CAUTIONARY DISCLAIMER - FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain of the statements and information in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian provincial securities laws (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Any statements or information that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects", "is expected", "anticipates", "believes", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategies", "targets", "goals", "forecasts", "objectives", "budgets", "schedules", "potential" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.  Forward-looking statements relate to, among other things: the price of silver and other metals; the accuracy of mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates at the Company's material properties; the sufficiency of the Company's capital to finance the Company's operations; estimates of the Company's revenues and capital expenditures; estimated production from the Company's mines in the Ying Mining District and the GC Mine; timing of receipt of permits and regulatory approvals; availability of funds from production to finance the Company's operations; and access to and availability of funding for future construction, use of proceeds from any financing and development of the Company's properties.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, risks relating to: global economic and social impact of COVID-19; fluctuating commodity prices; calculation of resources, reserves and mineralization and precious and base metal recovery; interpretations and assumptions of mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates; exploration and development programs; feasibility and engineering reports; permits and licences; title to properties; property interests; joint venture partners; acquisition of commercially mineable mineral rights; financing; recent market events and conditions; economic factors affecting the Company; timing, estimated amount, capital and operating expenditures and economic returns of future production; integration of future acquisitions into the Company's existing operations; competition; operations and political conditions; regulatory environment in China and Canada ; environmental risks; foreign exchange rate fluctuations; insurance; risks and hazards of mining operations; key personnel; conflicts of interest; dependence on management; internal control over financial reporting; and bringing actions and enforcing judgments under U.S. securities laws.

This list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the Company's forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements about the future and are inherently uncertain, and actual achievements of the Company or other future events or conditions may differ materially from those reflected in the forward-looking statements due to a variety of risks, uncertainties and other factors, including, without limitation, those referred to in the Company's Annual Information Form under the heading "Risk Factors". 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 as anticipated, estimated, described or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

The Company's forward-looking statements are based on the assumptions, beliefs, expectations and opinions of management as of the date of this news release, and other than as required by applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's assumptions, beliefs, expectations or opinions should change, or changes in any other events affecting such statements. For the reasons set forth above, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Cision View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/silvercorp-reports-net-income-of-46-4-million-0-27-per-share-and-cash-flow-from-operations-of-85-9-million-for-fiscal-2021--301296516.html

SOURCE Silvercorp Metals Inc

News Provided by PR Newswire via QuoteMedia

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Could the Silver Price Really Hit $100 per Ounce?

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Well-known figure Keith Neumeyer, CEO of First Majestic Silver (TSX:FR,NYSE:AG), has frequently said he believes the white metal could climb even further, hitting the US$100 mark or even reaching as high as US$130 per ounce.

Neumeyer has voiced this opinion often in recent years. He put up a US$130 price target in a November 2017 interview with Palisade Radio, and he also discussed it in an August 2022 interview with Wall Street Silver. He has reiterated his triple-digit silver price forecast in multiple interviews with Kitco over the years, including one in March 2023.

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Silver Outlook

Silver Price Forecast - What Happened And Where Do We Go From Here?

Silver Outlook

Thank you for requesting our exclusive Investor Report!

This forward-thinking document will arm you with the insights needed to make well-informed decisions for 2025 and beyond.

A Sneak Peek At What The Insiders Are Saying

"I'm looking for US$40 (per ounce) or so in 2025. It's really hard to predict because technically there's no resistance above US$35 or so”
— David Morgan, the Morgan Report

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Silver Price Forecast: Top Trends for Silver in 2025

The silver price reached highs not seen since 2012 this past year, supported by an ongoing deficit and increasing interest from investors as geopolitical concerns prompted safe-haven buying.

The white metal reached its highest point for the year in October, breaking through US$34 per ounce on the back of a shifting post-pandemic landscape and geopolitical tensions. However, Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential election just a few weeks later buoyed bond yields and the US dollar while weighing on silver and gold.

What will 2025 hold for silver? As the new year approaches, investors are closely watching how Trump's policies and actions could impact the precious metal, along with supply and demand trends in the space.

Here's what experts see coming for silver in 2025.

How will Trump's presidency impact silver?

As Trump's inauguration approaches, speculation is rife about how he could affect the resource industry.

The president-elect ran on a policy of “drill, baby, drill," and while his focus was largely on oil and gas companies, mining sector participants have taken it as a positive sign for exploration and development.

Trump's promise to reduce permitting timelines for anyone making an investment of US$1 billion or more in the US has excited sector members, and could end up being a boon to silver companies in the country.

However, part of the help Trump has promised to mining companies comes from reneging on environmental commitments, including the Paris Agreement. This could end up weighing on silver.

Current President Joe Biden's Inflation Reduction Act includes tax credits and deductions for solar projects, and there's some concern that the incoming administration and the new Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) could impose reversals or have the entire act gutted, hurting the solar market.

However, Peter Krauth, author of "The Great Silver Bull" and editor of the Silver Stock Investor, told the Investing News Network (INN) that Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) CEO Musk could end up keeping solar safe.

“Tesla bought SolarCity, which became Tesla Energy. They are an important provider of solar panels. Again, Musk’s new role heading DOGE and obvious close connection to Trump just might help mitigate risks to Tesla and its solar panel/power storage business. If that happens, in whatever form it may take, it could shelter solar panel production and sales in the US to a considerable degree,” Krauth explained via email.

He also noted that Trump's presidency isn't without risks and that much uncertainty still remains.

Mind Money CEO Julia Khandoshko also isn't worried about solar demand in the US.

“Rolling back ESG policies and returning to carbon-based technologies could slow the green energy transition in the US. However, Europe and China, the main drivers of the green transition, remain committed to clean energy, which increases silver demand. Thus, global trends will continue to support silver use in renewable energy technologies,” she told INN.

Silver deficit expected to continue

Industrial segments have been critical for silver demand in recent years.

As of November, the Silver Institute was forecasting total industrial demand of 702 million ounces of silver for 2024, an increase of 7 percent over the 655 million ounces recorded in 2023.

The institute attributes much of this increase to energy transition sectors, highlighting photovoltaics in particular.

However, these gains are coming alongside flat mine production, which is expected to grow only 1 percent to 837 million ounces during 2024. Once factored in, secondary supply from recycling pushes total supply of silver to 1.03 billion ounces for the year, a considerable gap from the 1.21 billion ounces of total demand.

Both Krauth and Khandoshko think the gap between silver supply and demand will continue.

Krauth suggested that companies have been dipping into aboveground inventories to narrow the gap, which has helped to keep the price of silver from exploding over the past year. "That supply is quickly drying up, so I expect to see renewed upward price pressure since silver miners are unable to grow output," he told INN.

Khandoshko expressed a similar sentiment, saying demand is likely to keep outpacing supply.

However, she also sees geopolitics and a global macroeconomic situation that could constrain both demand and supply growth in 2025. For example, economic difficulties in Europe and China could slow energy transition demand.

"The problem is that silver production is mainly concentrated in geopolitically challenging areas, such as Russia and Kazakhstan, where securing funding for supply expansion is quite difficult" — Julia Khandoshko, Mind Money

When it comes to supply, Khandoshko told INN that she sees a different scenario.

“The problem is that silver production is mainly concentrated in geopolitically challenging areas, such as Russia and Kazakhstan, where securing funding for supply expansion is quite difficult," she explained.

"These factors limit silver’s growth potential compared to gold, which in turn benefits from its role as a safe-haven asset during times of economic uncertainty."

Silver M&A set to heat up in 2025

As silver supply becomes increasingly stressed, experts are eyeing projects that are ramping up.

Krauth highlighted Aya Gold and Silver’s (TSX:AYA:OTCQX:AYASF) Zgounder mine expansion. Its first pour was at the end of November, and it is expected to ramp up to full annual output of 8 million ounces in 2025.

Endeavour Silver’s (TSX:EDR,NYSE:EXK) Terronera mine is also nearing completion. Once complete, the operation is expected to produce 15.5 million silver equivalent ounces per year.

For its part, Skeena Resources (TSX:SKE,NYSE:SKE) is working to develop its Eskay Creek project. It is set to come online in 2027, and is expected to bring 9.5 million ounces of silver per year to market in its first five years.

Krauth said a rising silver price is likely good news for mergers and acquisitions in 2025.

“Higher prices, since they translate into higher share prices, meaning acquirers can use their more valuable shares as a currency to acquire others … I think 2024 will bring deals between mid-tiers and between juniors," he said.

Krauth added, "The truth is that many mid-tier producers have not been spending on exploration. Something has to give, so I think we’ll see this space heat up."

Investor takeaway

Khandoshko and Krauth have similar silver outlooks for 2025, suggesting a possible pullback.

“Due to supply shortages and increasing demand in the coming months, silver is expected to reach US$35. After this, a slight pullback to US$30 would be possible,” Khandoshko said.

However, after that happens she projects another rise, with silver potentially passing US$50.

Krauth was looking for silver to reach US$35 in 2024, which happened in Q4. Looking forward to 2025, he thinks the white metal will revisit that level in the first quarter, with US$40 or more possible later in the year.

However, he suggested that investors should be cautious of wider economic trends affecting silver.

“There is a serious risk of significant correction in the broader markets and of a recession. A broad market selloff could bleed into silver stocks, even if only temporarily,” Krauth said.

In the case of a recession, a lack of industrial demand could create headwinds for silver. Still, Krauth thinks that could be tempered by government stimulus efforts for green energy and infrastructure.

Overall, 2025 could be a significant year for silver investors. However, geopolitical and economic instability may provide headwinds across the resource sector and could stymie silver's upward momentum.

Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Editorial Disclosure: Prismo Metals is a client of the Investing News Network. This article is not paid-for content.

The Investing News Network does not guarantee the accuracy or thoroughness of the information reported in the interviews it conducts. The opinions expressed in these interviews do not reflect the opinions of the Investing News Network and do not constitute investment advice. All readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence.

Silver Price Update: Q1 2025 in Review

Gold may be grabbing headlines with record-breaking highs in 2025, but silver is quietly making its own impressive climb, rising 17 percent since the start of the year.

Long supported by industrial demand, the silver market is also benefiting from its reputation as a safe-haven asset. However, mounting economic uncertainty has rattled investors in recent months.

While there are many driving forces behind this uncertainty, the ongoing tariff threats from US President Donald Trump and his administration have spooked equity markets worldwide.

What happened to the silver price in Q1?

After reaching a year-to-date high of US$34.72 per ounce in October 2024, the price of silver spent the rest of the year in decline, bottoming out at US$28.94 on December 30.

A momentum shift at the start of the year caused it to rise. Opening at US$29.53 on January 2, silver quickly broke through the US$30 barrier on January 7, eventually reaching US$31.28 by January 31.

Silver price, January 2 to April 4, 2025

Silver price, January 2 to April 4, 2025

Chart via Trading Economics.

Silver's gains continued through much of February, with the white metal climbing to US$32.94 on February 20 before retreating to US$31.13 on February 28. Silver rose again in March, surpassing the US$32 mark on March 5 and closing above US$32 on March 12. It peaked at its quarterly high of US$34.43 on March 27.

Heading into April, silver slumped back to US$33.67 on the first day of the month; it then declined sharply to below US$30 following Trump's tariff announcements on April 2.

Tariff fears lift silver, but industrial demand uncertainty looms

Precious metals, including silver, have benefited from the volatility created by the Trump administration’s constant tariff threats since the beginning of the year. These threats have caused chaos throughout global equity and financial markets, prompting more investors to seek safe-haven assets to stabilize their portfolios.

However, there are concerns that the threat of tariffs could weaken industrial demand, which could cool price gains in the silver market. In an email to the Investing News Network (INN), Peter Krauth, editor of the Silver Stock Investor and author of "The Great Silver Bull," said it's too soon to tell how tariffs may affect silver.

“We don’t really have any indication yet that industrial demand has weakened. There is, of course, a lot of concern regarding industrial demand, as tariffs could cause demand destruction as costs go up,” he said.

Krauth noted that for solar panels there is an argument that tariffs could positively affect industrial demand if countries have a greater desire for self-sufficiency and reduced reliance on energy imports.

He referenced research by Heraeus Precious Metals about a possible slowdown in demand from China, which accounts for 80 percent of solar panel capacity. However, any slowdown would coincide with a transition from older PERC technology to newer TOPCon cells, which require significantly more silver inputs.

“This, along with the gradual replacement of older PERC solar panels with TOPCon panels, should support silver demand at or near recent levels,” Krauth said.

Recession could provide headwinds

Another potential headwind for silver is the looming prospect of a recession in the US.

At the beginning of 2024, analysts had largely reached a consensus that some form of recession was inevitable.

While real GDP in the US rose 2.8 percent year-on-year for 2024, data from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s GDPNow tool shows a projected -2.8 percent growth rate for the first quarter.

The Bureau of Economic Analysis won't release official real GDP figures until April 30, but the Atlanta Fed’s numbers suggest a troubling fall in GDP that could signal an impending recession.

In comments to INN, Mind Money CEO Julia Khandoshko indicated that a recession may negatively impact the silver market due to the growing demand for silver from energy transition markets.

“When the economy slows down, demand for manufactured goods, including silver, decreases, which means that buying in the next six months is unlikely to be a wise decision,” she said.

Solar panels account for significant demand, with considerable amounts also used in electric vehicles. Tariffs on US vehicle imports and a possible recession could create added pressure for silver.

"In my view, there’s a strong possibility of witnessing a shock from a severe supply shortage in the silver market within the next six months or so" — Peter Krauth, Silver Stock Investor

“Another important factor is silver’s connection to the electric vehicle market. Previously, this sector supported demand for the metal, but now its growth has slowed down. In Europe and China, interest in electric cars is no longer so active, and against the background of economic problems, sales may even decline,” Khandoshko said.

Silver demand from solar panel production stands at 232 million ounces annually, with an additional 80 million ounces used by the electric vehicle sector. A recession could lead consumers to postpone major purchases, such as home improvements or new vehicles, particularly if coupled with the extra costs of tariffs.

Although the impact of tariffs on the economy — and ultimately demand for silver — remains uncertain, the Silver Institute’s latest news release on March 3 indicates a fifth consecutive annual supply deficit.

Silver price forecast for 2025

“I think silver will hold up well and rise on balance over the rest of this year,” Krauth said.

He also noted that, like gold, there have been shipments of physical silver out of vaults in the UK to New York as market participants try to avoid any direct tariffs that may be coming.

“In my view, there’s a strong possibility of witnessing a shock from a severe supply shortage in the silver market within the next six months or so,” Krauth explained to INN.

Khandoshko suggested silver's outlook is more closely tied to consumer sentiment. “The situation may also change when the news stops discussing the high probability of a recession in the US,” she remarked.

With Trump announcing a sweeping 10 percent global tariff along with dozens of specific reciprocal tariffs on April 2, there appears to be more instability and uncertainty ahead for the world’s financial systems.

This uncertainty has spread to precious metals, with silver trading lower on April 3 and retreating back toward the US$31 mark. Investors might be taking profits, but it could also be a broader pullback as they determine how to respond in a more aggressively tariffed world. In either scenario, the market may be nearing opportunities.

“There is some risk that we could see a near-term correction in the silver price. I don’t see silver as currently overbought, but gold does appear to be. I think we could get a correction in the gold price, which would likely pull silver lower. I could see silver retreating to the US$29 to US$30 level. That would be an excellent entry point. In that scenario, I’d be a buyer of both the physical metal and the silver miners,” Krauth said.

With increased industrial demand and its traditional safe-haven status, silver may present a more ideological challenge for investors in 2025 as competing forces exert their influence. Ultimately, supply and demand will likely be what drives investors to pursue opportunities more than its safe-haven appeal.

Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Editorial Disclosure: The Investing News Network does not guarantee the accuracy or thoroughness of the information reported in the interviews it conducts. The opinions expressed in these interviews do not reflect the opinions of the Investing News Network and do not constitute investment advice. All readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence.

Top 5 Canadian Silver Stocks of 2025

Silver-mining companies and juniors have seen support from a strong silver price in 2025. Since the start of the year, the price of silver has increased by over 11 percent as of April 11, and it reached a year-to-date high of US$34.38 per ounce on March 27.

Silver’s dual function as a monetary and industrial metal offers great upside. Demand from energy transition sectors, especially for use in the production of solar panels, has created tight supply and demand forces.

Demand is already outpacing mine supply, making for a positive situation for silver-producing companies.

So far, aboveground stockpiles have been keeping the price in check, but the expectation is those stocks will be depleted in 2025 or 2026, further restricting the supply side of the market.

How has silver's price movement benefited Canadian silver stocks on the TSX, TSXV and CSE? The five companies listed below have seen the best performances since the start of the year. Data was gathered using TradingView's stock screener on February 12, 2025, and all companies listed had market caps over C$10 million at that time.

1. Discovery Silver (TSX:DSV)

Year-to-date gain: 185.92 percent
Market cap: C$848.98 million
Share price: C$2.03

Discovery Silver is a precious metals development company focused on advancing its Cordero silver project in Mexico. Additionally, it is looking to become a gold producer with its recently announced acquisition of the producing Porcupine Complex in Ontario, Canada.

Cordero is located in Mexico’s Chihuahua State and is composed of 26 titled mining concessions covering approximately 35,000 hectares in a prolific silver and gold mining district.

A 2024 feasibility study for the project outlines proven and probable reserves of 327 million metric tons of ore containing 302 million ounces of silver at an average grade of 29 grams per metric ton (g/t) silver, and 840,000 ounces of gold at an average grade of 0.08 g/t gold. The site also hosts significant zinc and lead reserves.

The report also indicated favorable economics for development. At a base case scenario of US$22 per ounce of silver and US$1,600 per ounce of gold, the project has an after-tax net present value of US$1.18 billion, an internal rate of return of 22 percent and a payback period of 5.2 years.

Discovery's shares gained significantly on January 27, after the company announced it had entered into a deal to acquire the Porcupine Complex in Canada from Newmont (TSX:NGT,NYSE:NEM).

The Porcupine Complex is made up of four mines including two that are already in production: Hoyle Pond and Borden. Additionally, a significant portion of the complex is located in the Timmins Gold Camp, a region known for historic gold production.

Discovery anticipates production of 285,000 ounces of gold annually over the next 10 years and has a mine life of 22 years. Inferred resources at the site point to significant expansion, with 12.49 million ounces of gold, from 254.5 million metric tons of ore with an average grade of 1.53 g/t.

Upon the closing of the transaction, Discovery will pay Newmont US$200 million in cash and US$75 million in common shares, and US$150 million of deferred consideration will be paid in four payments beginning on December 31, 2027.

According to Discovery in its full-year 2024 financial results, the Porcupine acquisition will help support the financing, development and operation of Cordero. Discovery’s share price reached a year-to-date high of C$2.12 on March 31.

2. Almaden Minerals (TSX:AMM)

Year-to-date gain: 136.36 percent
Market cap: C$16.47 million
Share price: C$0.13

Almaden Minerals is a precious metals exploration company working to advance the Ixtaca gold and silver deposit in Puebla, Mexico. According to the company website, the deposit was discovered by Almaden’s team in 2010 and has seen more than 200,000 meters of drilling across 500 holes.

A July 2018 resource estimate shows measured resources of 862,000 ounces of gold and 50.59 million ounces of silver from 43.38 million metric tons of ore, and indicated resources of 1.15 million ounces of gold and 58.87 million ounces of silver from 80.76 million metric tons of ore with a 0.3 g/t cutoff.

In April 2022, Mexico’s Supreme Court of Justice (SCJN) ruled that the initial licenses issued in 2002 and 2003 would be reverted back to application status after the court found there had been insufficient consultation when the licenses were originally assigned.

Ultimately, the applications were denied in February 2023, effectively halting progress on the Ixtaca project. While subsequent court cases have preserved Almaden’s mineral rights, it has yet to restore the licenses to continue work on the project.

In June 2024, Almaden announced it had confirmed up to US$9.5 million in litigation financing that will be used to fund international arbitrations proceedings against Mexico under the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.

In a December update, the company announced that several milestones had been achieved, including the first session with the tribunal, at which the company was asked to submit memorial documents outlining its legal arguments by March 20, 2025. At that time, the company stated it would vigorously pursue the claim but preferred a constructive resolution with Mexico.

In its most recent update on March 21, the company indicated that it had submitted the requested documents, claiming US$1.06 billion in damages. The memorial document outlines how Mexico breached its obligations and unlawfully expropriated Almaden’s investments without compensation.

Shares in Almaden reached a year-to-date high of C$0.135 on February 24.

3. Avino Silver & Gold Mines (TSX:ASM)

Year-to-date gain: 98.43 percent
Market cap: C$373.48 million
Share price: C$2.52

Avino Silver and Gold Mines is a precious metals miner with two primary silver assets: the producing Avino silver mine and the neighboring La Preciosa project in Durango, Mexico.

The Avino mine is capable of processing 2,500 metric tons of ore per day ore, and according to its FY24 report released on January 21 the mine produced 1.1 million ounces of silver, 7,477 ounces of gold and 6.2 million pounds of copper last year. Overall, the company saw broad production increases with silver rising 19 percent, gold rising 2 percent and copper increasing 17 percent year over year.

In addition to its Avino mining operation, Avino is working to advance its La Preciosa project toward the production stage. The site covers 1,134 hectares, and according to a February 2023 resource estimate, hosts a measured and indicated resource of 98.59 million ounces of silver and 189,190 ounces of gold.

In a January 15 update, Avino announced it had received all necessary permits for mining at La Preciosa and begun underground development at La Preciosa. It is now developing a 350-meter mine access and haulage decline. The company said the first phase at the site is expected to be under C$5 million and will be funded from cash reserves.

The latest update from Avino occurred on March 11, when it announced its 2024 financial results. The company reported record revenue of $24.4 million, up 95 percent compared to 2023. Avino also reduced its costs per silver ounce sold.

Additionally, Avino reported a 19 percent increase in production in 2024, producing 1.11 million ounces of silver compared to 928,643 ounces in 2023. The company’s sales also increased, up by 23 percent to 2.56 million ounces of silver compared to 2.09 million ounces the previous year.

Avino's share price marked a year-to-date high of C$2.80 on March 27.

4. Highlander Silver (CSE:HSLV)

Year-to-date gain: 90 percent
Market cap: C$160.17 million
Share price: C$1.90

Highlander Silver is an exploration and development company advancing projects in South America.

Its primary focus has been the San Luis silver-gold project, which it acquired in a May 2024 deal from SSR Mining (TSX:SSRM,NASDAQ:SSRM) for US$5 million in upfront cash consideration and up to an additional US$37.5 million if Highlander meets certain production milestones.

The 23,098 hectare property, located in the Ancash department of Peru, hosts a historic measured and indicated mineral resource of 9 million ounces of silver, with an average grade of 578.1 g/t, and 348,000 ounces of gold at an average grade of 22.4 g/t from 484,000 metric tons of ore.

In July 2024, the company said it was commencing field activities at the project; it has not provided results from the program. In its December 2024 management discussion and analysis, the company stated it was undertaking a review of prior exploration plans and targets, adding that it believes there is exceptional growth potential.

Highlander's most recent news came on March 11, when it announced it had closed an upsized bought deal private placement for gross proceeds of C$32 million. The company said it will use the funding to further exploration activities at San Luis and for general working capital.

Shares in Highlander reached a year-to-date high of C$1.96 on March 31.

5. Santacruz Silver Mining (TSXV:SCZ)

Year-to-date gain: 85.45 percent
Market cap: C$192.16 million
Share price: C$0.51

Santacruz Silver is an Americas-focused silver producer with operations in Bolivia and Mexico. Its producing assets include the Bolivar, Porco and Caballo Blanco Group mines in Bolivia, along with the Zimapan mine in Mexico.

In a production report released on January 30, the company disclosed consolidated silver production of 6.72 million ounces, marking a 4 percent decrease from the 7 million ounces produced in 2023. This decline was primarily attributed to a reduction in average grades across all its mining properties.

In addition to its producing assets, Santacruz also owns the greenfield Soracaya project. This 8,325-hectare land package is located in Potosi, Bolivia. According to an August 2024 technical report, the site hosts an inferred resource of 34.5 million ounces of silver derived from 4.14 million metric tons of ore with an average grade of 260 g/t.

Shares in Santacruz reached a year-to-date high of C$0.59 on March 18.

Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time news updates!

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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