Assay results are pending, and the Company is fully funded for 2022 exploration
Silver Dollar Resources Inc. (CSE: SLV) (OTCQB: SLVDF) ("Silver Dollar" or the "Company") is pleased to report that a total of 2,424 metres of core drilling has been completed through eleven holes at the La Joya Silver Project (the "Property") located in the state of Durango, Mexico (See Figure 1).
The initial drilling program is focused on the Noria portion of the Property with an emphasis on target development and testing for possible structural extensions of known mineralized zones identified in historical drilling. Drill core sample results are pending for all holes and drilling is now on standby until we receive and interpret assay results.
Figure 1: Click on the image above to view a two-minute video introducing the La Joya Project
The Company has experienced multiple missed deadlines for the sample assay results. This was due to issues with the original accredited lab apparently related to Omicron, prep lab back logs, personnel changes, and internal operational issues. Upon learning of the most recent delay, the Company has taken immediate action and within 48-hours has now moved the drill core sample pulps to another accredited lab who have promised the analytical results in a shorter time frame.
"Delays with the original lab were beyond our control and we have now taken steps to mitigate the issue," said Mike Romanik, president of Silver Dollar. "Additionally, Versa Perforaciones has left their drill rig onsite so we can resume exploration drilling as soon as we have interpreted the initial drill results and plotted our next set of drill holes."
Mike Kilbourne, P.Geo., an independent Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the contents of this news release on behalf of the Company.
About the La Joya Property
The La Joya Property is situated approximately 75 kilometres directly southeast of the state capital city of Durango in a prolific mineralized region with past-producing and operating mines including Grupo Mexico's San Martin Mine, Industrias Penoles's Sabinas Mine, Pan American Silver's La Colorada Mine, and First Majestic's La Parrilla and Del Toro Silver Mines. Access and infrastructure near the property are considered excellent with a highway and power lines nearby.
Silver Dollar is a mineral exploration company that completed its initial public offering in May 2020 and is fully funded for 2022 with approximately $9 million in the treasury. The Company's projects are located in two of the prolific mining jurisdictions in the world and include the advanced exploration and development stage La Joya Silver Project in the state of Durango, Mexico; and the discovery-stage Pakwash Lake and the Longlegged Lake properties in the Red Lake Mining District of Ontario, Canada. The Company has an aggressive growth strategy and is actively reviewing potentially accretive acquisitions with a focus on drill-ready projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions internationally.
For additional information, you can download our latest presentation by clicking here and you can follow us on Twitter by clicking here.
This news release may contain "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.
Phase II drilling continues, and the Company is fully funded for 2022
Silver Dollar Resources Inc. (CSE: SLV) (OTCQX: SLVDF) ("Silver Dollar" or the "Company") is pleased to report the initial assay results from the Phase II drilling ongoing at the underexplored Noria portion of the La Joya Silver Project (the "Property") located in the state of Durango, Mexico.
Key Highlight:
Hole NOR-22-013 returned the highest grades to date at the new Brazo Discovery, intersecting 815 grams per tonne (g/t) silver equivalent (AgEQ) over 5 metres (m) within a broader interval of 363 g/t AgEQ over 19.35 m starting at 86.4 m downhole.
Phase I drilling consisted of 2,424 metres of drilling completed over 11 holes with analytical results previously reported (See news releases of March 24, 2022 and May 4, 2022).
A total 1,899 metres of drilling over 10 holes have been completed to date in Phase II drilling (See drill plan map). Drill core logging and sampling of all holes is ongoing with samples being submitted in batches for analysis. The results reported below are for the first four holes of the Phase II program.
Phase II Drilling Objectives and Discussion
Hole NOR-22-012 was a 30 m step back targeting the gold zone identified in NOR-22-009 (0.66 g/t gold (Au) over 58.84 m from 75.83 m downhole). Mineralization encountered included an intercept with 1.00 g/t Au over 26.85 m from 131.78 m downhole. While the interval in NOR-22-012 is approximately half the width of the interval in NOR-22-009 it is 42% higher in grade, (See: cross-section).
Hole NOR-22-013 was a -20° steeper inclined hole beneath the silver-zinc (Ag-Zn) zone identified in NOR-22-008 (89.59 g/t AgEQ over 125.3 m from surface including 267.56 g/t AgEq over 10.47 m from 70.53 m downhole), with NOR-22-013 targeting the higher-grade mineralization 35 m further down dip. The high-grade polymetallic mineralization of note begins with 363.29 g/t AgEQ over 19.35 m from 86.4 m downhole (See: cross-section).
Hole NOR-22-014 was a 32 m step back from NOR-22-013 that returned mineralization of lesser grade and width than at higher elevations in the section; however, the results do indicate a continuation of the mineralizing event that remains open at depth and along strike (See: cross-section).
Hole NOR-22-015 was drilled in the 100 m gap between the Au and Ag-Zn zones to establish continuity between the zones and better understand the zonation. While the mineral distribution in this hole is intermittent, it shows characteristics of the gold-rich zone to the south and the Ag-Zn mineralization to the north (See: cross-section).
Table 1: A summary of downhole drill intersection results for the first four holes of the Phase II program.
Drill Hole #
From (m)
To (m)
Length1 (m)
Ag (g/t
Au (g/t)
Cu %
Pb %
Zn %
AgEQ2 (g/t)
NOR-22-012
110.34
111.94
1.60
37.8
0.43
0.16
0.02
0.15
101
"
131.78
158.63
26.85
4.5
1.0
0.06
-
0.01
92
Including
145.30
157.35
12.05
4.0
1.22
0.03
-
-
106
NOR-21-013
2.30
19.35
17.05
6.0
0.03
0.02
0.04
0.99
58
NOR-21-013
31.16
41.06
9.90
3.0
0.03
0.02
0.01
0.93
51
NOR-21-013
55.50
64.63
9.13
7.0
0.03
0.01
0.06
0.74
48
NOR-21-013
86.40
129.52
43.12
90.0
0.41
0.08
0.45
1.0
198
Including
86.40
105.75
19.35
192.0
0.27
0.06
1.0
2.2
363
"
92.75
97.75
5.00
451.0
0.62
0.07
2.3
4.6
815
NOR-22-014
122.57
127.50
4.93
120.5
0.09
0.05
0.76
0.84
203
NOR-21-015
2.80
5.80
3.00
73.9
0.05
0.02
0.61
2.20
207
NOR-21-015
58.61
64.40
5.79
114.1
0.18
0.09
0.36
1.72
235
NOR-21-015
76.30
80.73
4.43
23.2
0.26
0.07
0.03
5.64
319
NOR-21-015
86.04
99.67
13.63
14.0
0.30
0.07
0.02
0.07
50
True widths have yet to be determined.
AgEQ in results assume (USD) $1,750 Au and $22 Ag per/oz, and $4.30 Cu, $1.25 Pb, and $1.50 Zn per/lb, and 100% metallurgical recovery.
"Phase II drilling continues to test the extensions of the wide intervals of mineralization intersected in Phase I, with hole NOR-22-013 returning the highest grades to date at the new Brazo Discovery," said Mike Romanik, president of Silver Dollar. "Drilling is ongoing and additional results will be reported as received."
Table 2: Drillhole Details
Drill Hole #
Target Area
Planned Depth (m)
X Collar
Y Collar
Azimuth
Dip
Hole Length (m)
NOR-22-012
Noria
250
608205
2640722
45
-65
177
NOR-22-013
Noria
200
608178
2640835
90
-65
156
NOR-22-014
Noria
175
608143
2640835
180
-65
180
NOR-22-015
Noria
150
608197
2640783
65
-45
123
Procedure, Quality Assurance / Quality Control, and Data Verification
The diamond drill core (HQ size) was geologically logged, photographed, and marked for sampling. Core designated for sampling was sawn in half with a diamond blade core saw. One-half of the core was sealed in plastic bags and shipped for analysis. The remaining half portion was returned to the core trays for storage and/or for metallurgical test work.
The sealed and tagged sample bags were transported to the ActLabs facility in Zacatecas, Mexico where the samples were crushed and 200-300-gram pulp samples prepared with ninety percent passing Tyler 150 mesh (106μm). The pulps were assayed for gold using a 30-gram charge by fire assay (Code 1A2 and/or FA450) and over limits greater than 10 grams per tonne were re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code 1A3 and/or FA550). Silver and multi-element analysis was completed using total digestion (Code 1F2 Total Digestion ICP). Over limits greater than 100 grams per tonne silver were re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code 8-Ag FA-GRAV Ag).
Quality assurance and quality control ("QA/QC") procedures monitor the chain of custody of the samples and include the systematic insertion and monitoring of appropriate reference materials (certified standards, blanks, and duplicates) into the sample strings. The results of the assaying of the QA/QC material included in each batch were tracked to ensure the integrity of the assay data. All results stated in this announcement have passed Silver Dollar's QA/QC protocols.
Mike Kilbourne, P.Geo., an independent Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release on behalf of the Company.
About the La Joya Project
The La Joya Property is situated approximately 75 kilometres directly southeast of the state capital city of Durango in a prolific mineralized region with past-producing and operating mines including Grupo Mexico's San Martin Mine, Industrias Penoles's Sabinas Mine, Pan American Silver's La Colorada Mine, and First Majestic's La Parrilla and Del Toro Silver Mines. For additional information on the Property click on the image below to watch the two-minute video.
Figure 1: Click on the image above to view a two-minute video introducing the La Joya Project
Silver Dollar is a mineral exploration company that completed its initial public offering in May 2020 and is fully funded for 2022 with approximately $8.5 million in the treasury. The Company's projects are located in two of the prolific mining jurisdictions in the world and include the advanced exploration and development stage La Joya Silver Project in the state of Durango, Mexico; and the discovery-stage Pakwash Lake and the Longlegged Lake properties in the Red Lake Mining District of Ontario, Canada. The Company has an aggressive growth strategy and is actively reviewing potentially accretive acquisitions with a focus on drill-ready projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions internationally.
For additional information, you can download our latest presentation by clicking here and you can follow us on Twitter by clicking here.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
Signed "Michael Romanik"
Michael Romanik, President, CEO & Director Silver Dollar Resources Inc. Direct line: (204) 724-0613 Email: mike@silverdollarresources.com 179 - 2945 Jacklin Road, Suite 416 Victoria, BC, V9B 6J9
Forward-Looking Statements:
This news release may contain "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.
Initial Phase 1 results included 2,369 g/t (83.6 oz/ton) AgEq over 1.01 m within a broader intercept of 361.8 g/t (12.76 oz/t) AgEq over 8.37 m in Hole NOR-21-004
Silver Dollar Resources Inc. (CSE: SLV) (OTCQX: SLVDF) ("Silver Dollar" or the "Company") is pleased to report that Phase 2 exploration drilling is underway at the La Joya Silver Project (the "Property") located in the state of Durango, Mexico.
Figure 1: Drilling in progress at the La Joya Project on hole NOR 22-012
Phase 2 drilling will remain focused on the underexplored Noria portion of the Property and new targets that were identified in the results received to date from the Phase 1 drilling program.
As previously reported, a new discovery that is of primary interest is a shallow high-grade gold zone that was unexpectedly hit in hole NOR-21-004. The hole, which deviated significantly to the south of the intended target, encountered high-grade gold in multiple intervals that included 19.2 grams per tonne (g/t) (0.677 oz/ton) gold (Au) over 3.00 metres (m) starting from a depth of 126 m downhole and 29.0 g/t (1.023 oz/ton) Au over 1.01 m starting from a depth of 164.61 m downhole.
The Phase 1 program consisted of 11 holes for a total of 2,424 m of drilling. Sample assay results for the first seven holes were reported on March 24, 2022 (See news release), and results for the remaining holes are expected shortly. For Phase 1 drill hole collar locations, see plan map.
"We are fully funded for Phase 2 drilling and excited to commence follow up on the new gold discovery," said Mike Romanik, president of Silver Dollar. "We are expecting the balance of the Phase 1 drill results shortly and will tailor and expand the program as additional targets become more clearly defined."
Mike Kilbourne, P.Geo., an independent Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release on behalf of the Company.
Figure 2: Click on the image above to view a two-minute video introducing the La Joya Project
The La Joya Project is situated approximately 75 kilometres directly southeast of the state capital city of Durango in a prolific mineralized region with past-producing and operating mines including Grupo Mexico's San Martin Mine, Industrias Penoles's Sabinas Mine, Pan American Silver's La Colorada Mine, and First Majestic's La Parrilla and Del Toro Silver Mines. For additional information on the Project click on the satellite map above to watch a two-minute video.
Silver Dollar is a mineral exploration company that completed its initial public offering in May 2020 and is fully funded for 2022 with approximately $9 million in the treasury. The Company's projects are located in two of the prolific mining jurisdictions in the world and include the advanced exploration and development stage La Joya Silver Project in the state of Durango, Mexico; and the discovery-stage Pakwash Lake and the Longlegged Lake properties in the Red Lake Mining District of Ontario, Canada. The Company has an aggressive growth strategy and is actively reviewing potentially accretive acquisitions with a focus on drill-ready projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions internationally.
For additional information, you can download our latest presentation by clicking here and you can follow us on Twitter by clicking here.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
Signed "Michael Romanik" Michael Romanik, President, CEO & Director Silver Dollar Resources Inc. Direct line: (204) 724-0613 Email: mike@silverdollarresources.com 179 - 2945 Jacklin Road, Suite 416 Victoria, BC, V9B 6J9
Forward-Looking Statements:
This news release may contain "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.
Additional assay results are pending, and the Company is fully funded for 2022
Silver Dollar Resources Inc. (CSE: SLV) (OTCQX: SLVDF) ("Silver Dollar" or the "Company") is pleased to report initial exploration results for the fall and winter drilling program completed at the La Joya Silver Project (the "Property") located in the state of Durango, Mexico (See Figure 1).
Highlights include:
Hole NOR-21-002 that returned 131.2 grams per tonne (g/t) silver equivalent (AgEq) over 5.37 metres (m); and
Hole NOR-21-004 that returned 1,590 g/t AgEq over 3.00 m, and 2,369 g/t AgEq over 1.01m within a broader intersection of 361.8 g/t AgEq over 8.37 m.
Drilling focused on the underexplored Noria portion of the Property and was successful in identifying possible structural extensions of the known mineralized zones as well as the discovery of a new shallow high-grade gold zone. The next phase of drilling will focus on these new targets and is expected to commence before month-end.
Drill core samples from all 11 holes completed over a total of 2,424 metres of drilling were submitted for analysis, and the results reported below are for the first seven holes.
Holes NOR-21-001 and NOR-21-002 targeted possible westward and downward extensions of the mineralization related to the past-producing Embotelladora mine, one of the historic artisanal mines on the Property.
Hole NOR-21-001intercepted the Embotelladora structure and 27 m of anomalous copper (Cu) and silver (Ag) values which graded 10.7 g/t Ag and 674 ppm Cu starting at 66 m downhole. This hole was successful in confirming the extension of the mineralized structure.
Hole NOR-21-002 intersected the downdip extension of the Embotelladora structure with an intercept of 110 g/t Ag over 5.37 m from a depth of 118.62 m downhole.
Hole NOR-21-003 targeted a historic gold intercept excluded from the database with a short 69 m hole but did not return any significant results.
Hole NOR-21-004 was drilled to test the deep high-grade "San Martin" type mineralization intercepted in historical hole LB96-04. This hole deviated significantly to the south and failed to intercept mineralization at the target depth. However, the hole did encounter unexpected high-grade gold in multiple intervals that have been verified by check assays including 19.2 g/t Au over 3.00 m starting from a depth of 126 m downhole and 29.0 g/t gold over 1.01 m starting from a depth of 164.61 m downhole. This shallow gold zone will be a primary target going forward.
Hole NOR-21-005 was planned to target an extension of mineralization associated with the western intrusive contact of Coloradito. While it failed to reach the contact, it did intercept high percentages of pyrite and 40.44m of 0.28% Zinc (Zn).
Holes NOR-22-006 and NOR-22-007 were drilled outside of the focus area to test conceptual geophysical targets and did not return any significant results.
For a planview of phase 1 drill hole collar locations see Figure 2.
"We are encouraged by these initial results and eagerly await the remaining assays, particularly for the wide interval of 40+ metres of visible sulphide mineralization in hole NOR-22-008. Drill core from this hole, that targeted mineralization along the contact between carbonate rocks and a felsic intrusive, looks very promising," said Mike Romanik, president of Silver Dollar. "The drill rig was left on site, and we expect the next phase of drilling to resume before month-end."
Table 1: A summary of downhole drill intersections received to date.
Drill Hole #
From (m)
To (m)
Length1 (m)
Ag (g/t
Au (g/t)
Cu %
Pb %
Zn %
AgEQ2 (g/t)
NOR-21-001
66
93
27
10.7
0.05
0.07
-
0.02
16.6
NOR-21-002
118.62
123.99
5.37
110.5
0.19
0.04
0.25
0.28
131.2
Including
121.14
123.99
2.85
141.3
0.06
0.04
0.42
0.44
161.1
NOR-21-003
No significant values
NOR-21-004
78
84
6.00
2.8
0.21
0.06
0.01
0.02
21.6
"
126
129
3.00
49
19.2
0.48
-
0.03
1,590
"
157.25
165.62
8.37
16.9
4.3
0.10
-
0.01
361.8
Including
164.61
165.62
1.01
58
29.0
0.15
-
0.01
2,369
"
204
213
9.00
5.5
0.21
0.11
-
0.02
25.3
NOR-21-005
9
49.44
40.44
4.4
0.02
0.01
0.02
0.28
9.8
NOR-21-005
144.57
157.11
12.54
16
0.06
0.11
0.15
25.5
NOR-22-006
No significant values
NOR-22-007
No significant values
True widths have yet to be determined.
AgEq in results above assumes US$1,750 Au and US$22 Ag per/oz, and US$4.30 Cu, US$1.25 Pb, and US$1.50 Zn per/lb, and 100% metallurgical recovery.
Table 2: La Joya Drillhole Details
Drill Hole #
Target Area
Target Depth (m)
X Collar
Y Collar
Azimuth
Dip
Hole Length (m)
NOR-21-001
Noria
120
609670
2640835
35
-45
150.0
NOR-21-002
Noria
225
609671
2640834
60
-45
198.0
NOR-21-003
Noria
69
609695.5
2641043
30
-60
69
NOR-21-004
Noria
500
609603.1
2641251
60
-75
558.0
NOR-21-005
Noria
150
608177.2
2640832
45
-45
159
NOR-22-006
Noria
145
608317
2641033
150
-50
168
NOR-22-007
Noria
125
608310
2641290
025
-65
150
Procedure, Quality Assurance / Quality Control, and Data Verification
The diamond drill core (HQ size) was geologically logged, photographed, and marked for sampling. Core designated for sampling was sawn in half with a diamond blade core saw. One-half of the core was sealed in plastic bags and shipped for analysis. The remaining half is returned to the core trays for storage and/or for metallurgical test work.
The sealed and tagged sample bags were transported to either the ActLabs facility in Zacatecas, Mexico, or the Bureau Veritas facility in Durango, Mexico where the samples were crushed and 200-300-gram pulp samples prepared with ninety percent passing Tyler 150 mesh (106μm). The pulps are assayed for gold using a 30-gram charge by fire assay (Code 1A2 and/or FA450) and over limits greater than 10 grams per tonne are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code 1A3 and/or FA550). Silver and multi-element analysis is completed using total digestion (Code 1F2 Total Digestion ICP). Over limits greater than 100 grams per tonne silver are re-assayed using a gravimetric finish (Code 8-Ag FA-GRAV Ag).
Quality assurance and quality control ("QA/QC") procedures monitor the chain-of-custody of the samples and include the systematic insertion and monitoring of appropriate reference materials (certified standards, blanks, and duplicates) into the sample strings. The results of the assaying of the QA/QC material included in each batch are tracked to ensure the integrity of the assay data. All results stated in this announcement have passed Silver Dollar's QA/QC protocols.
Mike Kilbourne, P.Geo., an independent Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical contents of this news release on behalf of the Company.
About the La Joya Project
The La Joya Project is situated approximately 75 kilometres directly southeast of the state capital city of Durango in a prolific mineralized region with past-producing and operating mines including Grupo Mexico's San Martin Mine, Industrias Penoles's Sabinas Mine, Pan American Silver's La Colorada Mine, and First Majestic's La Parrilla and Del Toro Silver Mines. For additional information on the Project click on the image below to watch a two-minute video.
Figure 1: Click on the image above to view a two-minute video introducing the La Joya Project
Silver Dollar is a mineral exploration company that completed its initial public offering in May 2020 and is fully funded for 2022 with approximately $9 million in the treasury. The Company's projects are located in two of the prolific mining jurisdictions in the world and include the advanced exploration and development stage La Joya Silver Project in the state of Durango, Mexico; and the discovery-stage Pakwash Lake and the Longlegged Lake properties in the Red Lake Mining District of Ontario, Canada. The Company has an aggressive growth strategy and is actively reviewing potentially accretive acquisitions with a focus on drill-ready projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions internationally.
For additional information, you can download our latest presentation by clicking here and you can follow us on Twitter by clicking here.
This news release may contain "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.
The Company is fully funded for 2022 exploration and is currently drilling its flagship La Joya Silver Project in Durango, Mexico
Silver Dollar Resources Inc. (CSE: SLV) (OTCQX: SLVDF) ("Silver Dollar" or the "Company") is pleased to report its common shares have qualified to be upgraded from the OTCQB Venture Market® to the OTCQX Best Market®.
The Company's common shares will continue to trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the symbol "SLV" and commence trading today on the OTCQX under the symbol "SLVDF". U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the Company on www.otcmarkets.com.
"Graduating to the OTCQX is anticipated to provide improved liquidity, an enhanced trading experience for our U.S. shareholders and potential U.S. investors, and expose the company to a broader market audience," said Michael Romanik, president of Silver Dollar. "The Company is fully funded for 2022 exploration, and we are currently drilling our flagship La Joya Silver Project in Durango, Mexico."
About the OTCQX Best Market
The OTCQX Best Market is the highest tier of over-the-counter markets and is designed for established, investor-focused U.S. and global companies. To qualify for the OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws. The companies found on OTCQX are distinguished by the integrity of their operations and the diligence with which they convey their qualifications.
Silver Dollar is a mineral exploration company that completed its initial public offering in May 2020 and is fully funded for 2022 with approximately $9 million in the treasury. The Company's projects are located in two of the prolific mining jurisdictions in the world and include the advanced exploration and development stage La Joya Silver Project in the state of Durango, Mexico; and the discovery-stage Pakwash Lake and the Longlegged Lake properties in the Red Lake Mining District of Ontario, Canada. The Company has an aggressive growth strategy and is actively reviewing potentially accretive acquisitions with a focus on drill-ready projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions internationally.
For additional information, you can download our latest presentation by clicking here and you can follow us on Twitter by clicking here.
ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD
Signed "Michael Romanik" Michael Romanik, President, CEO & Director Silver Dollar Resources Inc. Direct line: (204) 724-0613 Email: mike@silverdollarresources.com 179 - 2945 Jacklin Road, Suite 416 Victoria, BC, V9B 6J9
Forward-Looking Statements:
This news release may contain "forward-looking statements." Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this news release and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise.
OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of financial markets for over 11,000 U.S. and global securities, today announced Silver Dollar Resources Inc. ("Silver Dollar" or the "Company") (CSE: SLV; OTCQX: SLVDF), a mineral exploration company, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Silver Dollar Resources Inc. upgraded to OTCQX from the OTCQB® Venture Market.
Silver Dollar's common shares will continue to trade on the Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") under the symbol "SLV" and begin trading today on OTCQX under the symbol "SLVDF." U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the Company on www.otcmarkets.com .
The OTCQX Market is designed for established, investor-focused U.S. and international companies. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.
"Graduating to the OTCQX is anticipated to provide improved liquidity, an enhanced trading experience for our current U.S. shareholders and potential U.S. investors, and expose the company to a broader market audience," said Michael Romanik, president of Silver Dollar. "The Company is fully funded for 2022 exploration and we are currently drilling our flagship La Joya Silver Project in Durango, Mexico."
Silver Dollar is a mineral exploration company that completed its initial public offering in May 2020 and is fully funded for 2022 with approximately $9 million in the treasury. The Company's projects are located in two of the prolific mining jurisdictions in the world and include the advanced exploration and development stage La Joya Silver Project in the state of Durango, Mexico; and the discovery-stage Pakwash Lake and the Longlegged Lake properties in the Red Lake Mining District of Ontario, Canada. The Company has an aggressive growth strategy and is actively reviewing potentially accretive acquisitions with a focus on drill-ready projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions internationally. For additional information, you can download Silver Dollar's latest presentation by clicking here and you can follow Silver Dollar on Twitter by clicking here .
About OTC Markets Group Inc. OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates the OTCQX ® Best Market, the OTCQB ® Venture Market and the Pink ® Open Market for over 11,000 U.S. and global securities. Through our regulated OTC Link ® Alternative Trading Systems, the Company connects a diverse network of broker-dealers that provide liquidity and execution services. We enable investors to easily trade through the broker of their choice and empower companies to improve the quality of information available for their investors.
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Silver Elephant Mining (TSX:ELEF,OTCQB:SILEF) has announced plans to appeal the termination of its Pulacayo mining production contract (MPC) by Bolivia’s state-owned mining authority.
The company received a notice of cancelation on Tuesday (December 31) from Corporacion Minera de Bolivia (Comibol), which says the MPC was revoked due to alleged illegal mining activities within the contract area.
Silver Elephant maintains that its operations have been fully compliant with Bolivian regulations and that all required authorizations for mining activities in the Pulacayo area were properly secured.
The company has also denied knowledge of any unauthorized third-party mining activities within the MPC area.
The Pulacayo MPC was originally signed on October 3, 2019, and it granted Silver Elephant's Bolivian subsidiary the right to explore and mine select Comibol concessions in Pulacayo and Paca for up to 30 years. The agreement remained subject to ratification by Bolivia’s congress, a requirement for formalizing mining production contracts in the country.
Despite the setback, Silver Elephant said in Tuesday's press release that the notice from Comibol will not affect its Apuradita mining concession, which lies adjacent to the Paca concessions.
Apuradita is directly registered under the company’s Bolivian subsidiary and does not fall under Comibol’s jurisdiction. Development activities, including tunnel construction targeting silver sulfide deposits, are currently ongoing at the site.
Comibol, which operates under Bolivia’s Ministry of Mining and Metallurgy, oversees about 163 mining concessions.
In response to the contract termination, Silver Elephant said it plans to pursue an appeal under Bolivian law and in accordance with the dispute resolution mechanisms outlined in the MPC.
Until the dispute is resolved, mining operations within the MPC area are suspended.
The company also emphasized its longstanding engagement with local communities in Pulacayo and Paca, describing its community relations as a critical component of its decade-long presence in Bolivia.
Silver Elephant acquired Pulacayo, which was previously owned by Apogee Silver, in 2016. The project is estimated to contain a silver resource of approximately 100 million ounces, making it a key asset for the company.
The company has not provided a timeline for the appeal process, but indicated that it will continue to update stakeholders as the situation develops.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
In a game-changing move, Boab Metals (ASX:BML) has locked in crucial funding for its Sorby Hills Project, a significant lead-silver resource nestled in Australia. This financial boost not only fortifies the company's position but also lessens its dependence on equity markets. It's a pivotal stride towards the project's Final Investment Decision (FID), which is on the horizon for late 2025.
Key Financial Highlights
Financing Structure: The deal comes with attractive terms - a SOFR + 5 percent interest rate spanning five years, kicking off with an 18-month interest-only period.
FEED Study Results: The recent Front-End Engineering & Design (FEED) study unveiled some eye-catching figures:
C1 operating cost: A lean US$0.36 per pound of payable lead
Net Present Value (NPV8): A whopping AU$411 million
Internal Rate of Return (IRR): An impressive 37 percent
Strategic Acquisition: Boab is upping the ante, set to snag an extra 25 percent stake in Sorby Hills from its joint venture partner for AU$23 million, showcasing its faith in the project's potential.
Investment Potential
Market watchers are buzzing about Boab Metals, and here's why it's catching their eye:
Rock-Solid Fundamentals: The FEED study's results paint a picture of a project with robust profit potential and promising returns.
Smart Positioning: By beefing up its ownership in Sorby Hills, Boab is doubling down on a project that's ripe with growth opportunities.
Market Sweet Spot: The Sorby Hills Project is perfectly poised to ride the wave of growing global demand for lead and silver.
Green Credentials: The project's sustainable metal production aligns with eco-friendly trends, potentially drawing in environmentally conscious investors.
Project Development Progress
Securing this funding is more than just a financial win - it's a crucial stepping stone towards the Sorby Hills Project's Final Investment Decision. This progress speaks volumes about Boab Metals' commitment and savvy ability to navigate the tricky terrain of resource development.
Conclusion
Boab Metals' recent triumphs with the Sorby Hills Project - from bagging favorable funding to stellar FEED study results - position it as a tantalizing prospect in the mining sector. The project's blend of sustainable metal production, robust economics, and strategic importance suggests that Boab Metals could be a goldmine for investors looking to dip their toes in the lead and silver markets.
As with any investment, it's crucial to do your homework and weigh the risks before taking the plunge. That said, the recent developments at Boab Metals are certainly turning heads in the resource sector, making it a company worth keeping on your radar.
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Silver saw ups and downs in 2024, but as the year draws to a close the metal is set to end substantially higher than where it began. Find out what trends have moved the market over the last 12 months.
The silver price put on a strong performance in 2024, hitting highs not seen in over a decade.
Despite some volatility, factors like increasing industrial demand, safe-haven buying from investors and weakening mining supply all came together during the year to support gains in the price.
All told, silver is up nearly 35 percent since the start of 2024, outperforming gold's 32 percent gain.
Silver price in Q4
Silver began Q4 on a strong note, reaching US$31.37 per ounce on October 1 and climbing to US$32.18 on October 4; it then slipped to US$30.49 on October 9. However, the white metal's price didn’t remain low for long. It surged to its year-to-date high of US$34.72 on October 22, also reaching its highest level in 12 years.
The most significant tailwinds for silver came from geopolitical tensions, with what appeared to be a greater likelihood of the Israel-Palestine conflict spilling over into a broader regional war in October. Israel’s attacks on Lebanon, Syria and Iran saw more investors seek the haven of precious metals, benefiting silver.
As November began, the price of silver was again in retreat, trading at US$30.24 by November 15.
Silver faced headwinds following the US presidential election on November 5, losing nearly 5 percent in a single day as some investors fled to interest-bearing assets. However, the metal's losses were somewhat softened after the US Federal Reserve made a 25 basis point cut to its benchmark rate on November 7.
As the month worse on, silver saw volatility, spiking to US$31.34 on November 22. The rise came as safe-haven investors flocked to the metal following an escalation in the war between Russia and Ukraine. The US, UK and France said they would allow the use of long-range missiles by Ukraine to attack military targets inside Russia.
Previously, Ukraine had only been allowed to use the missiles to strike targets along the border.
The response from Russia was a policy change that would permit the use of nuclear weapons against countries supported by nuclear powers. Following the move, Russia launched a test of an intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear payload on a target within Ukraine.
Silver fell to a quarterly low of US$30.11 on November 27, but since then the precious metal has regained some ground. As of December 11, it was trading at US$31.88.
The next Fed meeting is set to run from December 17 to 18. Most analysts expect the central bank to make one last 25 basis point cut before pausing in 2025.
Silver started the year on a low note as its lackluster performance from 2023 carried over.
However, rate cut expectations added momentum to silver at the end of February and the beginning of March, which pushed the price up from the US$22 range to above US$25.
At the time, Peter Krauth, editor of Silver Stock Investor, told the Investing News Network (INN), “Silver also typically lags gold, then catches up and surpasses it. We’re starting to see that happen in spades right now. Since the end of February, gold is up about 15 percent, while silver has been up about 22 percent.”
Krauth also mentioned declining aboveground silver inventories.
“I think there may be 12 to 24 months left before they run out,” he said.
The big news from the second quarter was silver breaking through the US$30 barrier.
The price continued to be fueled by rate cut speculation, but also saw support from industrial segments as demand from India soared. The country imported more silver during the first four months of 2024 than all of 2023.
India is typically known for its strong precious metals jewelry demand, but Silver Institute President and CEO Michael DiRienzo told INN that it was also benefiting from “firmer electrical and electronics demand, thanks to the continued strength in India’s real estate market and rising investment in local infrastructure construction.”
Industrial segments, particularly photovoltaics production, have been a driver of Indian demand as the country works to build up its domestic solar supply chain through its approved list of models and manufacturers.
Silver didn’t see much upward momentum through most of the third quarter.
Instead, it saw a significant retreat toward US$26. Still, by the end of the quarter, a Fed rate cut had provided a substantial tailwind for silver, sending it above the US$32 mark by the end of September.
The quarter also saw First Majestic Silver (TSX:AG,NYSE:AG) announce on September 5 that it would purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares of Gatos Silver (TSX:GATO,NYSE:GATO) in a US$970 million transaction.
The deal will give First Majestic a 70 percent stake in the Cerro Los Gatos mine in Northern Mexico. The combined entity's anticipated annual production is 30 million to 32 million silver equivalent ounces.
This was followed on October 4 by Coeur Mining's (NYSE:CDE) agreement to acquire SilverCrest Metals (TSX:SIL,NYSE:SILV) for US$1.7 billion. The deal will create one of the world's largest silver producers, with annual output of 21 million ounces of the white metal projected by 2025.
The deal will give Coeur 100 percent ownership of the recently opened Las Chispas mine in Sonora, Mexico, which is projected to sell 9.8 million to 10.2 million silver equivalent ounces this year.
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.
Silver Price Forecast: Top Trends That Will Affect Silver in 2025
Silver reached highs not seen since 2012 this past year. What trends will drive the white metal in 2025, and will its price gains continue?
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 continues to hold a tremendous value proposition for investors. The market has not kept up with the gains in the commodity, and I think that provides investors with a great opportunity.
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.
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.
David Morgan: Silver to US$40 in 2025, Then Blow-off Top in 2026?
David Morgan, publisher of the Morgan Report, shared his outlook for silver in 2025 and beyond, saying that the white metal may reach US$40 per ounce next year with the possibility of a blow-off top in 2026 or so.
He also discussed his ongoing concerns about central bank digital currencies, both in the US and globally.
"If you could use one word to define my purpose, the way I see it, it's 'freedom.' I like the silver and the gold, and all the stories behind them and the monetary purposes thereof," Morgan said.
"But when it gets down to it, the way the system's going, the amount of gold and silver you have is going to be pretty much meaningless if you do not fit into the social credit system like the Chinese (have)."
Watch the interview above for more from Morgan on silver, as well as gold and the overall market. You can also click here to view the Investing News Network's New Orleans Investment Conference playlist on YouTube.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, 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.
Which Canadian silver stocks are the best performers so far in 2024? We break down our list of the top TSX, TSXV and CSE silver stocks to guide investors.
Silver saw strong gains in 2024, breaching US$32 per ounce in H1 and then US$34 in October.
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.
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 December 10, 2024, and all companies listed had market caps over C$10 million at that time.
Pantera Silver is focused on its Nuevo Taxco silver-gold project near Mexico City, Mexico.
The company signed an earn-in agreement with Impact Silver (TSX:IPT,OTCQB:ISVLF) for the 1,100 hectare property in October 2020. Though limited exploration has been carried out on the property, work done by Impact in 2013 identified 21 silver-bearing veins. Of the 395 rock samples collected at that time, three contained grades of over 1,000 grams per metric ton (g/t) silver. In a 2022 drill program, Pantera highlighted assay results of up to 225 g/t silver from 1.85 meters.
On October 20, explorer and developer Pantera provided a corporate update, saying it was looking at various options to restart exploration work that had previously been paused at Nuevo Taxco. In the announcement, Pantera said it was expecting to begin work in Q3 and would be focusing on sampling and mapping the Southwest zone of the project. The company has not provided any further updates regarding exploration work at Nuevo Taxco.
The most recent news from Pantera came on December 3, when the company announced it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a 100 percent stake in the Rakanco project. The property is composed of three mineral claims covering an area of 17,975 hectares in Southwest Bolivia.
Shares of Pantera reached a year-to-date high of C$0.46 on October 22 alongside a surging silver price.
Gatos Silver is a silver-focused production and exploration company. Its flagship asset is the Cerro Los Gatos mine and district, located south of Chihuahua City, Mexico.
The site consists of 14 predominantly silver, lead and zinc mineralization zones, and is a joint venture with Dowa Metals and Mining, which holds a 30 percent stake in the operation; Gatos owns the remaining 70 percent.
On February 21, the company released its full-year results for 2023, indicating it had produced 9.2 million ounces of silver, marking a decline from 10.3 million ounces produced in 2022. However, the company said it improved operational efficiencies to offset inflationary pressures, lowering all-in sustaining costs (AISC) to the lower end of 2023 guidance.
In the release, Gatos also said it was expecting similar production totals for 2024, with guidance of 8.4 million to 9.2 million ounces of silver at an AISC of US$9.50 to US$11.50 per payable ounce. The company said it was anticipating that exploration efforts at the South-East Deeps target would further extend the life of the mine.
On July 23, Gatos reported an update on regional exploration programs, saying that drilling at the South-East Deeps zone extension had resulted in a highlight of 214 g/t silver over 3.5 meters.
Additionally, results from its ongoing drilling at the Portigueño target included a highlight of 49 g/t silver over 1.6 meters, and results from two holes testing the depth of the San Luis target produced a highlighted intercept more than 150 meters below surface of 66 g/t silver over 8.9 meters, including 111 g/t silver over 2.5 meters.
On September 5, Gatos entered into a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by First Majestic Silver (TSX:AG,NYSE:AG). The transaction values Gatos at US$970 million and is expected to be completed in early 2025.
In a Q3 production update on October 9, Gatos reported that its silver equivalent production for the period had increased 11 percent year-on-year. Additionally, through the first nine months of 2024, Gatos produced 7.1 million ounces of silver, up from 6.65 million ounces in the same period in 2023. The higher figures allowed the company to increase its 2024 guidance to 9.2 million to 9.7 million ounces of silver, up from 8.4 million to 9.2 million ounces.
The company released its Q3 financial and operating results on November 11, saying that earnings per share were up 200 percent year-on-year to C$0.14. Net income increased to C$9.9 million from C$3.3 million.
Shares of Gatos reached a year-to-date high of C$27.85 on October 29.
GR Silver Mining is a small-cap explorer and developer that is working to advance its Rosario Mining District in Sinaloa, Mexico, to production. The district consists of three core mining areas: Plomosas, San Marcial and La Trinidad.
The company’s primary focus has been the development of Plomosas and neighboring San Marcial, a 9,764 hectare land package that hosts a past-producing silver, gold, lead and zinc underground mine.
In March 2023, the company released an updated resource estimate for Plomosas showing total indicated resources of 97 million silver equivalent ounces, with additional inferred resources of 53 million silver equivalent ounces.
Shares of GR Silver saw significant gains in the first quarter alongside a rising silver price and a March 4 announcement that GR had started small bulk sampling and test mining at Plomosas.
The company provided results from the sampling program in an update on June 27. In the report, GR Silver said it had completed 280 meters of underground development and processed 15,170 metric tons (MT) of material. Silver recovery rates from the samples were between 84 and 92 percent. Assays from channel sampling produced high grades, with one sample grading 1,625 g/t silver and 14.1 g/t gold over 2.5 meters.
On July 17, GR announced that it had completed its sale of Marlin Gold Mining to a private, arm’s-length company active in Mexico. Under the terms of the agreement, GR was to receive a 0.5 percent net smelter royalty on the concessions owned by Marlin subsidiary Oro Gold and a 10 year first right of refusal on any disposition of the concessions.
Since then, the company has spent time raising funds. Its most recent news came on September 27, when GR announced it had closed an oversubscribed private placement for C$2.37 million. The company said it intends to use the proceeds for exploration activities at its Plomosas project.
GR's share price reached a year-to-date high of C$0.295 on October 23.
Andean Precious Metals is a silver-focused company with a pair of operating assets in the Amercias.
Its primary silver-producing operation is the San Bartolome mine in the Potosi Department of Bolivia. The onsite processing facility has an annual ore capacity of 1.8 million MT.
A September 2023 mineral reserve statement demonstrates proven and probable quantities of silver at 6.85 million ounces from 21.01 million MT of ore with an average grade of 10.15 g/t.
Its other producing asset is the Golden Queen mine in Kern County, California, US. It hosts a 12,000 MT per day cyanide heap leach and Merril-Crowe processing facility. A mineral reserve statement shows measured and indicated silver values at 11.24 million ounces from 41.81 million MT with an average grade of 8.37 g/t. The company acquired Golden Queen from Auvergne Umbrella in November 2023 for total consideration of US$15 million.
On November 11, the company released its Q3 operating and financial results. Andean said that during the first nine months of the year, it produced 2.98 million ounces of silver at San Bartolomé, an 11 percent reduction from 2023. However, this was offset by production at Golden Queen, which generated 395,000 ounces of silver.
The most recent news from Andean came on December 5, when it announced it had received approval to be listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The company said the move reflects its commitment to delivering shareholder value and will enhance Andean’s visibility and ability to broaden its investor base.
Andean shares have positive momentum all year, but saw their biggest increase alongside a surge in silver and gold prices in September and into October. The company reached its year-to-date high of C$2.10 on October 22, the same day silver saw its highest price of the year.
Endeavour Silver is a silver company with two operating silver-gold mines in Mexico — Guanaceví and Bolañitos — plus the advanced-stage Terronera development project and several exploration properties.
Its primary focus for 2024 has been its Terronera project in Jalisco, Mexico, which is under construction. Once complete, the new mine will become the company’s flagship operation. According to a 2023 update to its 2021 feasibility report, Terronera will produce an estimated 4 million ounces of silver per year over a 10 year mine life.
On July 24, Endeavour announced that construction at the site had progressed, with surface construction achieving 77 percent completion. The company said it should be ready for dry commissioning during the third quarter, and that final earthworks and concrete pouring were also expected to take place during that time period.
Endeavour reported on August 19 that, following a failure that occurred at the primary ball mill trunnion on August 12, it had resumed processing at its Guanacevi mine site. However, the company noted that its processing capacity would be halved during a ramp up with temporary modifications. At the time, it stated that permanent repairs to return to regular capacity should take 16 weeks for fabrication and installation. The company estimated that silver production for the year would be 900,000 to 1.1 million ounces lower than previous guidance for that reason.
In its Q3 production results, released on October 8, Endeavour said the failure and temporary fix had reduced throughput at the mill to 565 MT per day, resulting in production of 847,717 ounces of silver, down 24 percent year-on-year. For the first nine months of the year, Endeavour produced 3.65 million ounces of silver, 15 percent lower year-on-year.
Endeavour expects Guanacevi to be back to full operation in December.
In a release on October 21, Endeavour provided a construction update from Terronera indicating that it had reached 77 percent completion. The company said it is on track to begin commissioning near the end of Q4.
Shares of Endeavour reached a year-to-date high of C$7.62 on October 29.
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Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
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.
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.
First Majestic Silver Corp. (NYSE: AG) (TSX: AG) (FSE: FMV) (the "Company" or "First Majestic") announces that Gatos Silver, Inc. ("Gatos") has advised the Company that it has amended and restated its agreements (the "Amended Agreements") with Dowa Metals & Mining Co., Ltd. ("Dowa") regarding the Los Gatos Joint Venture (the "LGJV"). The Amended Agreements, which become effective on January 1, 2025, expand Gatos' management rights within the LGJV and allow for the financial statements of the LGJV to be fully consolidated. For copies of the Amended Agreements, please see the Form 8-K filed by Gatos under its EDGAR profile at www.sec.govedgar. The Amended Agreements do not affect the respective ownership interests of Gatos and Dowa in the LGJV, which remain unchanged at 70% and 30%, respectively. Concurrent with this news release, the Company has filed a material change report dated December 19, 2024 (the "December Material Change Report") under its SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.com, with further details of the Amended Agreements.
As a result of the Amended Agreements, First Majestic has updated the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information (the "Pro Forma Financial Information") that was previously prepared by the Company and that was included in its management information circular (the "Circular") for the upcoming January 14, 2025 special meeting of First Majestic's shareholders (the "Special Meeting") to reflect full consolidation of the LGJV in the Pro Forma Financial Information (as opposed to accounting for Gatos' 70% interest in the LGJV using the equity method of accounting, which is reflected in the Pro Forma Financial Information set out in the Circular). The updated Pro Forma Financial Information based on fully consolidating the LGJV is attached to the December Material Change Report.
First Majestic's shareholders are encouraged to read the updated Pro Forma Financial Information in the December Material Change Report, together with the Circular and the other materials for the Special Meeting, when voting their shares in respect of the Special Meeting. Electronic versions of the materials for the Special Meeting are available at www.AGSpecialMeeting.com.
The Company would like to remind shareholders that the Special Meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. (Pacific Time) at the offices of Bennett Jones LLP, located at Suite 2500 - 666 Burrard Street, Vancouver, British Columbia V6C 2X8. Only First Majestic shareholders of record as of November 25, 2024 are entitled to vote at the Special Meeting. For further details regarding the Special Meeting, please see the Company's news release dated December 10, 2024.
First Majestic has retained Kingsdale Advisors ("Kingsdale") as a Strategic Advisor and to assist in the solicitation of proxies for the Special Meeting. Any shareholders who need assistance with voting their First Majestic Shares may contact Kingsdale by telephone at 1-866-851-3214 (toll-free in North America) or 1-647-577-3635 (text and call enabled outside North America), or by email at contactus@kingsdaleadvisors.com.
Gatos Stockholder Meeting
Holders of shares of Gatos common stock ("Gatos Shares") are also required to provide their approval of First Majestic's acquisition of all of the outstanding Gatos Shares (the "Transaction"), and accordingly, Gatos has announced that it will hold its stockholder meeting virtually on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. (Pacific Time), one hour prior to First Majestic's Special Meeting. Subject to the approval of First Majestic's shareholders and Gatos' stockholders and the satisfaction or waiver of other conditions precedent, it is anticipated that the Transaction will close in January 2025.
Important Information for Investors and Shareholders about the Transaction and Where to Find It
This news release is not intended to and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to subscribe for or buy or an invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities of First Majestic or Gatos or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction, nor shall there be any sale, issuance or transfer of securities of First Majestic or Gatos in any jurisdiction in contravention of applicable law. This news release may be deemed to be soliciting material relating to the Transaction.
In connection with the proposed transaction between First Majestic and Gatos pursuant to the Merger Agreement and subject to future developments, First Majestic has filed a registration statement on Form F-4 (the "Form F-4") with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which includes a proxy statement of Gatos that also constitutes a prospectus of First Majestic (the "Proxy Statement/Prospectus"). The Form F-4 was declared effective by the SEC on December 2, 2024. Gatos filed a Proxy Statement/Prospectus with the SEC on December 3, 2024, which it commenced mailing to its stockholders on December 6, 2024. First Majestic filed the Information Circular in connection with the proposed Transaction with applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities on December 10, 2024. This news release is not a substitute for any registration statement, proxy statement, prospectus or other document First Majestic or Gatos has filed or may file with the SEC or Canadian securities regulatory authorities in connection with the proposed Transaction. First Majestic commenced mailing the Meeting Materials to its shareholders on December 10, 2024. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF GATOS AND FIRST MAJESTIC ARE URGED TO READ THE PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND MANAGEMENT PROXY CIRCULAR, RESPECTIVELY, AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC OR CANADIAN SECURITIES REGULATORY AUTHORITIES CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY IF AND WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BEFORE MAKING ANY VOTING OR INVESTMENT DECISION WITH RESPECT TO THE TRANSACTION BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT FIRST MAJESTIC, GATOS, THE TRANSACTION AND RELATED MATTERS. Investors and security holders may obtain free copies of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus, the filings with the SEC that are incorporated by reference into the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC by First Majestic and Gatos containing important information about First Majestic or Gatos and the Transaction through the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Investors will also be able to obtain free copies of the management proxy circular and other documents filed with Canadian securities regulatory authorities by First Majestic, through the website maintained by the Canadian Securities Administrators at www.sedarplus.com. In addition, investors and security holders may obtain free copies of the documents filed by First Majestic with the SEC and Canadian securities regulatory authorities on First Majestic's website or by contacting First Majestic's investor relations team. Copies of the documents filed with the SEC by Gatos are available free of charge on Gatos' website at www.gatossilver.com or by contacting Gatos' investor relations team.
Participants in the Merger Solicitation
First Majestic, Gatos and certain of their respective directors, executive officers and employees may be considered participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed Transaction. Information regarding the persons who may, under the rules of the SEC, be deemed participants in the solicitation of the shareholders of First Majestic and the stockholders of Gatos in connection with the Transaction, including a description of their respective direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, is included in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus described above and other relevant documents when they are filed with the SEC and Canadian securities regulatory authorities in connection with the proposed Transaction. Additional information regarding First Majestic's directors and executive officers is also included in First Majestic's Notice of Annual Meeting of Shareholders and 2024 Proxy Statement, which was filed with the SEC and Canadian securities regulatory authorities on April 15, 2024, and information regarding Gatos' directors and executive officers is also included in Gatos' Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the SEC on February 20, 2024, as amended by Amendment No. 1 to such annual report filed with the SEC on May 6, 2024 and Gatos' 2024 Proxy Statement for its 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 25, 2024. These documents are available free of charge as described above.
ABOUT FIRST MAJESTIC
First Majestic is a publicly traded mining company focused on silver and gold production in Mexico and the United States. The Company presently owns and operates the San Dimas Silver/Gold Mine, the Santa Elena Silver/Gold Mine, and the La Encantada Silver Mine as well as a portfolio of development and exploration assets, including the Jerritt Canyon Gold project located in northeastern Nevada, U.S.A.
First Majestic is proud to own and operate its own minting facility, First Mint, LLC, and to offer a portion of its silver production for sale to the public. Bars, ingots, coins and medallions are available for purchase online at www.firstmint.com, at some of the lowest premiums available.
This news release contains "forward‐looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which are intended to be covered by the safe harbor created by such sections and other applicable laws and "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws (collectively, "forward‐looking statements"). These statements relate to future events or the future performance, business prospects or opportunities of First Majestic and/or Gatos that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management of First Majestic and/or Gatos made in good faith in light of management's experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments. Forward‐looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: closing of the Transaction and the terms and timing related thereto; the anticipated timing of shareholder meetings; and the timing for the Amending Agreements becoming effective. Assumptions may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Consequently, guidance cannot be guaranteed. As such, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon guidance and forward‐looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, assumptions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward‐looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "forecast", "potential", "target", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward‐looking statements".
Actual results may vary from forward‐looking statements. Forward‐looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to materially differ from those expressed or implied by such forward‐looking statements, including but not limited to: satisfaction or waiver of all applicable closing conditions for the Transaction on a timely basis or at all including, without limitation, receipt of all necessary shareholder, stock exchange and regulatory approvals or consents and lack of material changes with respect to First Majestic and Gatos and their respective businesses, all as more particularly set forth in the Merger Agreement; the timing of the closing of the Transaction and the failure of the Transaction to close for any reason; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against First Majestic or Gatos and others related to the Transaction; and unanticipated difficulties or expenditures relating to the Transaction. First Majestic is not affirming or adopting any statements or reports attributed to Gatos (including prior mineral reserve and resource declaration) in this news release or made by Gatos outside of this news release. In addition, the failure of a party to comply with the terms of the Merger Agreement may result in that party being required to pay a fee to the other party, the result of which could have a material adverse effect on the paying party's financial position and results of operations and its ability to fund growth prospects and current operations. Although First Majestic has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward‐looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended.
First Majestic believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included herein should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date hereof. First Majestic does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, except as required by applicable laws.
The silver price put on a strong performance in 2024, hitting highs not seen in over a decade.
Despite some volatility, factors like increasing industrial demand, safe-haven buying from investors and weakening mining supply all came together during the year to support gains in the price.
All told, silver is up nearly 35 percent since the start of 2024, outperforming gold's 32 percent gain.
Silver price in Q4
Silver began Q4 on a strong note, reaching US$31.37 per ounce on October 1 and climbing to US$32.18 on October 4; it then slipped to US$30.49 on October 9. However, the white metal's price didn’t remain low for long. It surged to its year-to-date high of US$34.72 on October 22, also reaching its highest level in 12 years.
The most significant tailwinds for silver came from geopolitical tensions, with what appeared to be a greater likelihood of the Israel-Palestine conflict spilling over into a broader regional war in October. Israel’s attacks on Lebanon, Syria and Iran saw more investors seek the haven of precious metals, benefiting silver.
As November began, the price of silver was again in retreat, trading at US$30.24 by November 15.
Silver faced headwinds following the US presidential election on November 5, losing nearly 5 percent in a single day as some investors fled to interest-bearing assets. However, the metal's losses were somewhat softened after the US Federal Reserve made a 25 basis point cut to its benchmark rate on November 7.
As the month worse on, silver saw volatility, spiking to US$31.34 on November 22. The rise came as safe-haven investors flocked to the metal following an escalation in the war between Russia and Ukraine. The US, UK and France said they would allow the use of long-range missiles by Ukraine to attack military targets inside Russia.
Previously, Ukraine had only been allowed to use the missiles to strike targets along the border.
The response from Russia was a policy change that would permit the use of nuclear weapons against countries supported by nuclear powers. Following the move, Russia launched a test of an intermediate-range ballistic missile capable of carrying a nuclear payload on a target within Ukraine.
Silver fell to a quarterly low of US$30.11 on November 27, but since then the precious metal has regained some ground. As of December 11, it was trading at US$31.88.
The next Fed meeting is set to run from December 17 to 18. Most analysts expect the central bank to make one last 25 basis point cut before pausing in 2025.
Silver started the year on a low note as its lackluster performance from 2023 carried over.
However, rate cut expectations added momentum to silver at the end of February and the beginning of March, which pushed the price up from the US$22 range to above US$25.
At the time, Peter Krauth, editor of Silver Stock Investor, told the Investing News Network (INN), “Silver also typically lags gold, then catches up and surpasses it. We’re starting to see that happen in spades right now. Since the end of February, gold is up about 15 percent, while silver has been up about 22 percent.”
Krauth also mentioned declining aboveground silver inventories.
“I think there may be 12 to 24 months left before they run out,” he said.
The big news from the second quarter was silver breaking through the US$30 barrier.
The price continued to be fueled by rate cut speculation, but also saw support from industrial segments as demand from India soared. The country imported more silver during the first four months of 2024 than all of 2023.
India is typically known for its strong precious metals jewelry demand, but Silver Institute President and CEO Michael DiRienzo told INN that it was also benefiting from “firmer electrical and electronics demand, thanks to the continued strength in India’s real estate market and rising investment in local infrastructure construction.”
Industrial segments, particularly photovoltaics production, have been a driver of Indian demand as the country works to build up its domestic solar supply chain through its approved list of models and manufacturers.
Silver didn’t see much upward momentum through most of the third quarter.
Instead, it saw a significant retreat toward US$26. Still, by the end of the quarter, a Fed rate cut had provided a substantial tailwind for silver, sending it above the US$32 mark by the end of September.
The quarter also saw First Majestic Silver (TSX:AG,NYSE:AG) announce on September 5 that it would purchase all of the issued and outstanding shares of Gatos Silver (TSX:GATO,NYSE:GATO) in a US$970 million transaction.
The deal will give First Majestic a 70 percent stake in the Cerro Los Gatos mine in Northern Mexico. The combined entity's anticipated annual production is 30 million to 32 million silver equivalent ounces.
This was followed on October 4 by Coeur Mining's (NYSE:CDE) agreement to acquire SilverCrest Metals (TSX:SIL,NYSE:SILV) for US$1.7 billion. The deal will create one of the world's largest silver producers, with annual output of 21 million ounces of the white metal projected by 2025.
The deal will give Coeur 100 percent ownership of the recently opened Las Chispas mine in Sonora, Mexico, which is projected to sell 9.8 million to 10.2 million silver equivalent ounces this year.
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.
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