Tartisan Nickel Corp. (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: A2D) ("Tartisan" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has closed $1,797,000.00 in flow-through financing. This was comprised of 5,615,625 flow-through units of the Company at the price of $0.32 per unit for an aggregate subscription price of $1,798.000. Each unit comprises one flow-through share and one-half of one warrant. Each full warrant will entitle the holder thereof to acquire one additional common share of the Company exercisable at a price of $0.70 per warrant share for a period of 18 months from the Closing date. A finder's commission of 6% cash and 6% brokers warrants was paid to eligible agents including but not limited to GloRes Securities Limited. The units issued under the flow-through financing are subject to a hold period expiring four months and one day from the closing date.
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![Tartisan Nickel Corp. Completes High Resolution Airborne MAG Survey at Its Sill Lake Lead-Silver Property, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario](https://investingnews.com/media-library/image.png?id=33802055&width=1200&height=800)
Tartisan Nickel Corp. Completes High Resolution Airborne MAG Survey at Its Sill Lake Lead-Silver Property, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Tartisan Nickel Corp. (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: 8TA)("Tartisan", or the "Company") is pleased to report the airborne high resolution MAG Survey for the Company's 100% owned Sill Lake Lead-Silver Property has been completed. The high-res MAG survey covered approximately 297-line kms and used a 50-meter line spacing. The Sill Lake Project is in Van Koughnet Township, about 30 km north of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario and consists of 57 single cell mining claims covering some 1260.77 hectares.
Tartisan CEO Mark Appleby, states, "We are pleased with the results of the high resolution airborne magnetic survey. The Sill Lake Deposit is associated with a northwest-southeast trending magnetic low feature in the survey data. Interpretation of the data suggests the structure which hosts the known Sill Lake Ag-Pb resource extends approximately 2 kilometers to the southeast and appears to be extending to the northeast offset by a series of interpreted faults. A two-kilometer extension is exciting and worthy of follow up and potentially a new exploration and drill program." (See Figures 1 and 2).
Lead-silver mineralization was originally discovered at Sill Lake in 1892, when a 30m adit was driven to a 17m internal shaft, with approximately 40m of lateral development to exploit a lead-silver vein. The Sill Lake Lead-Silver Property was later defined by explorers who conducted a 3750-meter diamond drill program along a defined steeply dipping mineralized trend some 850m in length, with mineralized widths varying between 1.5m and 4.5m. The Sill Lake Lead-Silver Property has seen two distinct periods of underground development and production and it is estimated that 7,000 tonnes of ore containing lead and silver were mined. In 2010, a historical NI 43-101 Technical Report gave a measured and indicated mineral resource of 112,751 tonnes at 134 g/t silver; 0.62% lead, and 0.21% zinc. The historical resource estimate used a silver cutoff grade of 60 g/t; but no cutoff grade for the base metal content was used.
An updated Technical NI 43-101 Report dated May 9, 2021, was prepared for Tartisan Nickel Corp. by SMX International Corporation (SMX) as an update to work previously done by Chemrox Technologies LLC from 2008-2010, an SMX predecessor company. The Sill Lake Lead-Silver Property NI 43-101 Technical Report is on SEDAR.
Fig 1: Tartisan property position over the Sill Lake area outlining extent of high resolution airborne magnetic survey. First Vertical Derivative and Tilt processing of the data highlights an extension of the structure hosting Sill Lake Ag-Pb for approximately 2 km to the southeast. Possible faulted extension is also interpreted to the northwest.
Fig 2: Tartisan property position illustrating general geology and location of historical diamond drill holes (source MNDM drill hole database).
Dean MacEachern P.Geo. is the Qualified Person under NI 43-101 and has read and approved the technical content of this News Release.
About Tartisan Nickel Corp.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. is a Canadian based battery metals and mine development company whose flagship asset is the Kenbridge Nickel Deposit located in northwestern Ontario. Tartisan also owns; the Sill Lake Lead- Silver Property in Sault St. Marie, Ontario, and the Don Pancho Manganese-Zinc-Lead-Silver Project in Peru. Tartisan Nickel Corp. owns equity stakes in: Class 1 Nickel & Technologies Corp. and Peruvian Metals Corp.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. common shares are listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: 8TA). There are currently 113,105,328 shares outstanding (126,147,159 fully diluted).
For further information, please contact Mark Appleby, President & CEO, and a Director of the Company, at 416-804-0280 (info@tartisannickel.com). Additional information about Tartisan can be found at the Company's website at www.tartisannickel.com or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.
The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. Closes $1,798,000 Flow-Through Financing at $0.32 per Unit
The proceeds from the flow-through financing are being used to fund the exploration, development, advancement and feasibility of the Company's flagship Kenbridge Nickel Project, Atikwa Lake Area, Kenora Mining District, Ontario. The Company has commenced the work program as outlined in the July 2022 P.E.A (SEDAR).
About Tartisan Nickel Corp.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. is a Canadian based mineral exploration and development company which owns; the Kenbridge Nickel Project in northwestern Ontario; the Sill Lake Silver Property in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario as well as the Don Pancho Manganese-Zinc-Lead-Silver Project in Peru. The Company has an equity stake in; Eloro Resources Limited, Class 1 Nickel and Technologies Limited, Peruvian Metals Corp. and Silver Bullet Mines Inc.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. common shares are listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: A2D). There are 114,538,128 shares outstanding after this current issuance.
For further information, please contact Mark Appleby, President & CEO, and a Director of the Company, at 416-804-0280 (info@tartisannickel.com). Additional information about Tartisan Nickel Corp. can be found at the Company's website at www.tartisannickel.com or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.
The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/146020
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Tartisan Nickel Corp. Files Preliminary Economic Assessment of the Kenbridge Nickel Project, Northwestern Ontario, on SEDAR
Tartisan Nickel Corp. (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: 8TA) ("Tartisan", or the "Company") is pleased to announce the completion and filing of the Preliminary Economic Assessment(" PEA") for the 100% owned Kenbridge Nickel Project, Northwestern Ontario (SEDAR August 26, 2022). The Kenbridge Nickel Project is in the Kenora Mining District, Northwestern Ontario. The property is covered by patented and unpatented mining claims totalling 4,108.42 ha. Since 1937, 665 surface and underground drill holes totalling 99,741 meters have been completed on the property. Kenbridge has an existing shaft to a depth of 2,042 ft (622 m), with 13 level stations at 150 ft. (46 m) intervals below the shaft collar and two levels developed at 350 ft (107 m) and 500 ft (152 m) below the shaft collar.
The PEA was independently prepared by P&E Mining Consultants Inc. ("P&E") of Brampton, Ontario under the supervision of Eugene J. Puritch, P.Eng., FEC, CET.
Highlights of the PEA (All currency is $CDN unless stated otherwise)
This PEA is focused solely on underground mining of the Mineral Resources at the Kenbridge Nickel Project and provides a solid base case for moving the Kenbridge Nickel Project forward. The PEA indicates a 9-year mine plan based on a 1,500 tonne per day underground mining and processing operation, which would have the capacity and could potentially accelerate to 2,000 t.p.d. The mine plan assumes the potentially extractable tonnage of Measured, Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources which assumes overall dilution of 47% (18% internal dilution from stope designs plus 29% external dilution) and a 94% mine recovery factor. Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources represent 3,445,000 tonnes at 0.97% Ni, 0.52% Cu and 0.013% Co (74 Mlb Ni, 39.1 Mlb Cu). Inferred Mineral Resources represent 1,014,000 tonnes at 1.47% Ni, 0.67% Cu and 0.011% Co (32.7 Mlb Ni, 14.9 Mlb Cu). Metal prices are based on long-term industry consensus forecast with nickel representing the primary contribution to revenues. USD metal prices used in the PEA were USD$10/lb Ni, USD$4/lb Cu and USD$26/lb Co. A $USD:$CDN exchange rate of 0.78 is applied.
LOM revenues from net smelter returns are estimated at $837 million. LOM operating costs are estimated at $292 million. Mining costs are estimated at $38.93per tonne mined, processing costs are $17.74 per tonne and G&A costs are $7.96 per tonne. Cash operating costs are estimated at US$3.76/lb NiEq and all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") are US$4.99/lb NiEq. LOM capital costs are estimated at $227 million and include pre-production capital costs of $133.7-million. Pre-tax Net Present Value ("NPV") is estimated at $182.5 million using a 5% discount rate. Pre-tax Internal Rate of Return ("IRR") is 26%. Payback period is 3.5 years on an after-tax basis.
Mark Appleby President and CEO of Tartisan states: "The Kenbridge Nickel Project PEA is focused solely on the current underground Mineral Resource. There is excellent potential to increase and upgrade the quality of the near surface mineralization at Kenbridge thereby adding additional years of production or providing the basis for an increase in annual throughput. The PEA provides compelling evidence to move into Pre-Feasibility and for the Kenbridge Nickel Project to move into a production scenario. The Company has commenced the necessary baseline studies and has undertaken additional studies which are essential and necessary in Project Permitting. The Company continues to upgrade the access road to site with completion anticipated in late September, October 2022.
Cautionary Statement - The reader is advised that the PEA summarized in this news release is intended to provide only an initial, high-level review of the project potential and design options. The PEA mine plan and economic model include numerous assumptions and the use of Inferred Mineral Resources. Inferred Mineral Resources are considered to be too speculative to be used in an economic analysis except as allowed by NI 43-101 in PEA studies. There is no guarantee the project economics described herein will be achieved.
About Tartisan Nickel Corp.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. is a Canadian based mineral exploration and mine development company whose flagship asset is the Kenbridge Nickel-Copper Project located in the Kenora Mining District, Northwestern Ontario. Tartisan also owns; the Sill Lake Silver Property in Sault St. Marie, Ontario as well as the Don Pancho Manganese-Zinc-Lead-Silver Project in Peru.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. common shares are listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: 8TA). Currently, there are 108,922,503 shares outstanding (120,218,018 fully diluted).
Dean MacEachern P.Geo. and Eugene Puritch, P.Eng, FEC, CET are the respective Company and independent Qualified Persons under NI 43-101 and have read and approved the technical content of this News Release.
The Company has filed the PEA on SEDAR at www.sedar.com in accordance with NI 43-101.
For further information, please contact Mark Appleby, President & CEO, and a Director of the Company, at 416-804-0280 (info@tartisannickel.com). Additional information about Tartisan Nickel Corp. can be found at the Company's website at www.tartisannickel.com or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.
The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/135205
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VOX PROVIDES GOLD ROYALTY DEVELOPMENTS AND EXPLORATION UPDATES
Vox Royalty Corp. (TSXV: VOX) (OTCQX: VOXCF) (" Vox " or the " Company ") a returns focused precious metals royalty company, is pleased to provide recent development and exploration updates from royalty operating partners Norton Gold Fields Pty Ltd. (" Norton Gold "), Northern Star Resources Limited (ASX: NST) (" Northern Star "), Black Cat Syndicate Limited (ASX: BC8) (" Black Cat "), Norwest Minerals Limited (ASX: NWM) (" Norwest "), and Tartisan Nickel Corp. (CSE: TN) (" Tartisan ").
Kyle Floyd , Chief Executive Officer stated: "The past two months have seen material progress on certain Vox gold royalty assets, with the opening of the Binduli North gold mine, ongoing construction at the Otto Bore gold mine by Northern Star and meaningful pre-production planning at the Bulong and Bulgera gold toll-treatment projects. This progress continues to support Vox management expectations of organic growth from 6 to 10 or more producing royalties by late 2023 and further revenue growth."
- Official opening of the Binduli North heap leach mine covered by the Janet Ivy gold royalty, released by Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd.'s (HKSE: 2899) (" Zijin Mining ") subsidiary, Norton Gold ;
- Construction update for the Otto Bore gold mine by Northern Star;
- Final high grade drilling results at the Myhree gold deposit by Black Cat, which is covered by the Bulong royalty;
- Development of pit designs, completion of a potential site layout and preparations for Mining Lease application at the Bulgera gold deposit by Norwest; and
- Completion of a Preliminary Economic Assessment (" PEA ") and permitting update on the Kenbridge nickel project by Tartisan, indicating a potential 9-year mine life with a goal of production in approximately 3 years.
- Vox holds an uncapped A$0.50 /tonne production royalty over the Janet Ivy gold mine in Western Australia ;
- In March 2022 , Zijin Mining filed a mining proposal for the Binduli North 5Mtpa heap leach gold project, which was further described in Vox's operator update released on June 9, 2022 ;
- On July 8, 2022 , the Western Australian State Government announced :
- "The McGowan Government has congratulated Norton Gold Fields for officially opening its A$278 million Binduli North heap leach project;
- The project created 300 jobs during construction and will employ 200 workers during production; and
- The operation has an estimated 10-year life span and is expected to produce an average of 75,000 ounces of gold per year."
- Vox Management Summary: The official opening of the Binduli North mine is a major growth milestone for Vox and expected to unlock annual royalty revenues of A$2M – A$2.5M over the mine's ~10-year life. This expansion was the key potential catalyst that supported Vox management's decision to acquire the Janet Ivy royalty for ~A$5.5M in March 2021 .
- Vox holds a 2.5% net smelter return royalty (between 42koz – 100koz cumulative production) over the Otto Bore gold project in Western Australia , acquired in conjunction with the producing Janet Ivy / Binduli North gold royalty in March 2021 ;
- On July 20, 2022 , Northern Star announced :
- At Thunderbox, open pit mining continued with D Zone pre-strip and the installation of key infrastructure at Otto Bore to support open pit mining operation;
- 12% of Northern Star's A$650M group growth capex in FY23 is to be spent at Yandal hub on:
- Completion of the Thunderbox mill expansion, which is on track and on budget for commissioning and ramp up in the first half of 2023;
- Establishment of the Otto Bore mine; and
- New tailings dam.
- Vox Management Summary: Otto Bore is expected to become Vox's seventh producing royalty asset, commencing in the second half of 2022. Northern Star are developing this new gold mine as a feed source for the low-cost Thunderbox mill ahead of Vox management expectations.
- Vox holds an uncapped 1% net smelter royalty over part of the Bulong gold project in Western Australia ;
- On July 29, 2022 , Black Cat announced :
- Final Reverse Circulation (" RC ") grade control drilling at Myhree was undertaken in June 2022 . The first half of assay results have been returned and reinforced the high-grade open pit Ore Reserve of 0.6Mt @ 2.4 g/t Au for 46koz (1) ;
- Results include:
- 5m @ 19.63 g/t Au from 33m (22MYGC037);
- 7m @ 7.36 g/t Au from 30m (22MYGC038);
- 3m @ 7.29 g/t Au from 18m and 6m @ 13.91 g/t Au from 32m (22MYGC022);
- 4m @ 12.38 g/t Au from 37m (22MYGC036);
- 7m @ 4.89 g/t Au from 8m (22MYGC031);
- 3m @ 8.21 g/t Au from 6m (22MYGC032);
- 2m @ 10.24 g/t Au from 5m (22MYGC033);
- 4m @ 6.36 g/t Au from 27m (22MYGC039);
- 3m @ 11.12 g/t Au from 27m (22MYGC040);
- All grade control drilling at Myhree is now complete and remaining assays are expected in August 2022 ;
- Myhree open pit is fully approved and mining can commence once an ore processing solution is secured, discussions with interested parties are ongoing; and
- Black Cat's Managing Director, Gareth Solly , said, "Myhree was Black Cat's first discovery in 2018 and it is satisfying to know it has the potential to be our first producing mine. With the final results due within weeks, Myhree is now ready for production, subject to securing a processing solution for the high-grade ore."
- Vox Management Summary: Since Vox acquired the Bulong gold royalty from an Australian automotive group in September 2020 , the project has been aggressively advanced by Black Cat and is progressing closer to production. Black Cat is guiding towards potential commencement of toll-treated production from October 2022 onwards.
- Vox acquired the uncapped 1% NSR royalty over the Bulgera gold project in Western Australia for A$225k in March 2021 ;
- On July 29, 2022 , Norwest announced :
- Economic pit optimisation shells were developed into proper pit designs for the Bulgera, Mercuiri and Price deposits and a site layout completed;
- The company is compiling information and taking steps required to lodge an application for converting the project exploration license to a mining license;
- The application is currently being compiled and submission to the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) in Western Australia is expected next quarter;
- Discussions to toll treat Bulgera gold resources continue with the local gold plant operator; and
- A program of drilling 15 x 200m RC holes to the west and east along strike from the Bulgera open cut has been approved and the commencement of this drill program is planned for 2023.
- Vox Management Summary: The Bulgera royalty was acquired for A$225k less than 18 months ago and is rapidly being fast-tracked towards a development decision with a mining license application expected next quarter. We look forward to the outcomes of ongoing discussions with the local gold plant operator regarding potential toll treatment.
- Vox holds an uncapped 1% net smelter return royalty on part of the Kenbridge nickel-copper project in Canada , which is subject to a full buyback right for C$1.5M in favour of Tartisan. Vox's 1% NSR royalty was originally created in January 2018 as part of a debt settlement between former Kenbridge project operator Canadian Arrow Mines Limited and Breakwater Resources Limited (as a subsidiary of Nyrstar);
- On July 12, 2022 , Tartisan announced the completion of a positive PEA for the Kenbridge Nickel Project (2) , with the following highlights:
- A 9-year mine plan based on a 1,500 tonne per day underground mining and processing operation;
- Life of mine revenues from net smelter returns are estimated at C$837 million (assuming USD metal prices of USD$10 /lb Ni, USD$4 /lb Cu and USD$26 /lb Co and a USD:CAD exchange rate of 0.78);
- Measured and Indicated mineral resources represent 3,508,000 tonnes at 0.70% Ni, 0.35% Cu and 0.01% Co (54 Mlb Ni, 27 Mlb Cu); and
- Inferred mineral resources represent 1,013,000 tonnes at 1.21% Ni, 0.56% Cu and 0.01% Co (27 Mlb Ni, 13 Mlb Cu).
- On August 16, 2022 , Tartisan announced that:
- Initial environmental baseline studies have concluded;
- "Phase 2" environmental baseline studies have commenced and are outlined as follows:
- Bathymetry for receiving waterbodies/Lakes surrounding the project;
- Fisheries Studies on creeks and lakes surrounding the project;
- Surface water quality sampling, stream flow monitoring and data download, and groundwater quality sampling from spring 2022 installed monitoring stations;
- Water Quality Profiling and Sampling from receiving waterbodies;
- Stage 1 Archeology Assessment;
- Stage 1 Geochemistry Assessment; and
- Tartisan's CEO Mark Appleby commented, " Baseline studies continue at the Kenbridge Nickel Project and signify the Company's commitment to an approximate three years to production timeline. The Company is continuing to review and implement all necessary steps in the permitting and mining approval process. The recently announced PEA results outlined robust economics and significant value of the Kenbridge Nickel Project. The full PEA Report will be available on SEDAR shortly ".
- Vox Management Summary: The Kenbridge royalty rights were acquired as part of the Nyrstar/Breakwater Resources portfolio of royalties in January 2021 and the project operator is now guiding towards potential first production in approximately three years. As a past-producing underground nickel-copper mine with an existing 609m shaft, this project has potential to be fast-tracked back into production.
Timothy J. Strong , MIMMM, of Kangari Consulting LLC and a "Qualified Person" under NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this press release.
Vox is a returns focused precious metals royalty company with a portfolio of over 50 royalties and streams spanning eight jurisdictions. The Company was established in 2014 and has since built unique intellectual property, a technically focused transactional team and a global sourcing network which has allowed Vox to target the highest return on invested capital in the royalty sector. Since the beginning of 2020, Vox has announced over 20 separate transactions to acquire over 50 royalties.
Further information on Vox can be found at www.voxroyalty.com .
This news release contains certain forward-looking statements. Any statements 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" or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate" "plans", "estimates" or "intends" or stating that certain actions, events or results " may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be "forward-looking statements".
The forward-looking statements and information in this press release include, but are not limited to, summaries of operator updates provided by management and the potential impact on the Company of such operator updates, statements regarding expectations for the timing of commencement of development, construction at and/or resource production from various mining projects, expectations regarding the size, quality and exploitability of the resources at various mining projects, future operations and work programs of Vox's mining operator partners, the receipt of future royalty payments derived from various royalty assets of Vox, anticipated future cash flows and future financial reporting by Vox, and requirements for and operator ability to receive regulatory approvals.
Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking statements and information are subject to various known and unknown risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the ability of Vox to control or predict, that may cause Vox's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from those expressed or implied thereby, and are developed based on assumptions about such risks, uncertainties and other factors set out herein, including but not limited to: the requirement for regulatory approvals and third party consents, the impact of general business and economic conditions, the absence of control over the mining operations from which Vox will receive royalties, including risks related to international operations, government relations and environmental regulation, the inherent risks involved in the exploration and development of mineral properties; the uncertainties involved in interpreting exploration data; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities; the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with Vox's expectations; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; fluctuating metal prices; unanticipated costs and expenses; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, commodity price fluctuations; currency fluctuations; regulatory restrictions, including environmental regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, loss of key employees and other related risks and uncertainties.
Vox has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Vox as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. Readers should not place undue importance on forward looking information and should not rely upon this information as of any other date. While Vox may elect to, it does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.
Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Except where otherwise stated, the disclosure in this press release is based on information publicly disclosed by project operators based on the information/data available in the public domain as at the date hereof and none of this information has been independently verified by Vox. Specifically, as a royalty investor, Vox has limited, if any, access to the royalty operations. Although Vox does not have any knowledge that such information may not be accurate, there can be no assurance that such information from the project operators is complete or accurate. Some information publicly reported by the project operators may relate to a larger property than the area covered by Vox's royalty interests. Vox's royalty interests often cover less than 100% and sometimes only a portion of the publicly reported mineral reserves, mineral resources and production from a property.
(1) | The Myhee drilling results and information in Black Cat's 29 July 2022 announcement that relates to geology, and planning was complied by Mr. Iain Levy, who is a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists. See https://www.asx.com.au/asxpdf/20220729/pdf/45c9knjl083f5m.pdf . |
(2) | Tartisan's press release titled, "Tartisan Nickel Corp. Provides Positive Preliminary Economic Assessment For The Kenbridge Nickel Project, Kenora Mining District, Northwestern Ontario" dated 12 July 2022. Dean MacEachern, P.Geo. and Eugene Puritch, P.Eng, FEC, CET are the respective Tartisan and independent Qualified Persons under NI 43-101. See https://tartisannickel.com/tartisan-nickel-corp-provides-positive-preliminary-economic-assessment-for-the-kenbridge-nickel-project-kenora-mining-district-northwestern-ontario/ . |
SOURCE Vox Royalty Corp.
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Tartisan Nickel Corp.: Environmental Baseline Studies Enter Second Phase at the Kenbridge Nickel Project, Northwestern Ontario
Tartisan Nickel Corp. (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: 8TA) ("Tartisan", or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the initial environmental baseline studies have concluded, and that "Phase 2" environmental baseline studies have commenced at the Kenbridge Nickel Project, Kenora Mining District, Northwestern Ontario.
Tartisan had previously announced that Knight Piesold Consulting ("KP") and Blue Heron Environmental ("BH") have been retained to carry out these various time sensitive environmental baseline studies (SEDAR). Environmental baseline studies are critical in the permitting and approvals process and overall advancement of the Kenbridge Nickel Project. The Company is taking the necessary steps to advance the Kenbridge Nickel Project with the goal of nickel-copper production in approximately three years.
Work in "Phase 2" is outlined as follows:
- - Bathymetry for receiving waterbodies/Lakes surrounding the project
- - Fisheries Studies on creeks and lakes surrounding the project
- - Surface Water Quality Sampling from spring 2022 installed monitoring stations
- - Water Quality Profiling and Sampling from receiving waterbodies
- - Stream Flow Monitoring and data download from spring 2022 installed monitoring stations
- - Groundwater Quality Sampling from spring 2022 installed monitoring stations
- - Stage 1 Archeology Assessment
- - Stage 1 Geochemistry Assessment
Tartisan Nickel Corp. CEO Mark Appleby commented, "Baseline studies continue at the Kenbridge Nickel Project and signify the Company's commitment to an approximate three years to production timeline. The Company is continuing to review and implement all necessary steps in the permitting and mining approval process. The recently announced PEA results outlined robust economics and significant value of the Kenbridge Nickel Project. The full PEA Report will be available on SEDAR shortly."
The Kenbridge Nickel Project is located via the Trans-Canada Highway, 10.2 km from the township of Sioux Narrows. The Kenbridge Nickel Project has a Mineral Resource Estimate (SEDAR: June 1, 2021), a 622-meter three compartment shaft with two underground level workstations and has never been mined. As previously announced, Tartisan has retained P & E Mining Consultants Inc. to update the historic Preliminary Economic Assessment ("PEA") on the Kenbridge Nickel Project. The full Kenbridge Nickel Project PEA Report will be filed on SEDAR.
About Tartisan Nickel Corp.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. is a Canadian based mineral exploration and mine development company whose flagship asset is the Kenbridge Nickel Deposit located in northwestern Ontario. Tartisan also owns; the Sill Lake Silver Property in Sault St. Marie, Ontario as well as the Don Pancho Manganese-Zinc-Lead-Silver Project in Peru amongst other assets.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. common shares are listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: 8TA). Currently, there are 108,922,503 shares outstanding (120,218,018 fully diluted).
Dean MacEachern P. Geo. is the Qualified Person under NI 43-101 and has read and approved the technical content of this News Release.
For further information, please contact Mark Appleby, President & CEO, and a Director of the Company, at 416-804-0280 (info@tartisannickel.com). Additional information about Tartisan Nickel Corp. can be found at the Company's website at www.tartisannickel.com or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements. The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/133963
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Tartisan Nickel Corp. Provides Positive Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Kenbridge Nickel Project, Kenora Mining District, Northwestern Ontario
Tartisan Nickel Corp. (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: 8TA) ("Tartisan", or the "Company") is pleased to announce the completion of a positive Preliminary Economic Assessment(" PEA") for the 100% owned Kenbridge Nickel Project. The Kenbridge Nickel Project is in the Kenora Mining District, Northwestern Ontario. Kenbridge has an existing shaft to a depth of 2,042 ft (622 m), with level stations at 150 ft. (45 m) intervals below the shaft collar and two levels developed at 350 ft (107 m) and 500 ft (152 m) below the shaft collar.
The PEA was independently prepared by P&E Mining Consultants Inc. ("P&E") of Brampton, Ontario under the supervision of Eugene J. Puritch, P.Eng., FEC, CET.
Highlights of the PEA (All currency is $CDN unless stated otherwise)
This PEA is focused solely on mining of the Mineral Resources at the Kenbridge Nickel Project underground mine and provides a solid base case for moving the Kenbridge Project forward. The PEA indicates a 9-year mine plan based on a 1,500 tonne per day underground mining and processing operation. The mine plan assumes the potentially extractable tonnage of Measured, Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources which assumes overall dilution of 47% (18% internal dilution from stope designs plus 29% external dilution) and a 94% mine recovery factor. Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources represent 3,508,000 tonnes at 0.70% Ni, 0.35% Cu and 0.01% Co (54 Mlb Ni, 27 Mlb Cu). Inferred Mineral Resources represent 1,013,000 tonnes at 1.21% Ni, 0.56% Cu and 0.01% Co (27 Mlb Ni, 13 Mlb Cu). Metal prices are based on long-term industry consensus forecast with nickel representing the primary contribution to revenues. USD metal prices used in the PEA were USD$10/lb Ni, USD$4/lb Cu and USD$26/lb Co. A $USD:$CDN exchange rate of 0.78 is applied. Life of mine ("LOM") processing recovers 200,900 tonnes of nickel concentrate at 15% Ni and 66,900 tonnes of copper concentrate at 24% Cu. This results in 52.6 million lbs of payable Ni and 30.7 million lbs of payable Cu.
LOM revenues from net smelter returns are estimated at $837 million. LOM operating costs are estimated at $292 million. Mining costs are estimated at $38.94 per tonne mined, processing costs are $17.74 per tonne and G&A costs are $7.96 per tonne. Cash operating costs are estimated at US$3.76/lb NiEq and all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") are US$4.99/lb NiEq. LOM capital costs are estimated at $227 million and include pre-production capital costs of $134 million. Pre-tax Net Present Value ("NPV") is estimated at $183 million using a 5% discount rate. Pre-tax Internal Rate of Return ("IRR") is 26%.
Net cash flow of $837 million less operating costs of $292 million less royalties of $22 million less closure costs of $10 million less capital expenditures of $227 million less taxes of $105 million results in an after-tax cash flow of $180 million. After-tax NPV using a 5% discount rate is estimated at $109 million and after-tax IRR is estimated at 20%. Financial highlights are shown in Tables 1 and 2 below.
Mark Appleby, President and CEO of Tartisan, states: "We are extremely pleased with the results of the PEA which is focused solely on the current underground Mineral Resource. There remains excellent potential to increase and upgrade the quality of the near surface mineralization at Kenbridge thereby adding additional years of production or providing the basis for an increase in annual throughput. By adjusting the mining plan to be an underground operation it allows Tartisan to utilize the existing shaft infrastructure thereby accessing higher grades of mineralization early in the proposed mine life. The PEA provides compelling evidence to move towards Feasibility and for the Kenbridge Nickel Project to move into production. The Company has commenced the necessary baseline studies which are essential and necessary in Project Permitting and is upgrading the access road to site with completion anticipated in September 2022. Tartisan continues to develop positive relationships with its surrounding First Nations through its First Nation consulting partner Talon Resources and Community development Inc. Every effort is being made for the Tartisan Kenbridge Project to become a part of the nickel supply chain this decade!"
Table 1: Net Present Value and Internal Rate of Return Calculations
Pre-Tax | After Tax | |
Undiscounted NPV ($M) | 286 | 181 |
NPV (5%) ($M) | 183 | 109 |
IRR (%) | 26 | 20 |
Payback (years) | 3.4 | 3.5 |
Table 2: PEA Financial Highlights
General | Value | |
Nickel Price (US$/lb) | 10 | |
Copper Price (US$/lb) | 4 | |
Cobalt Price (US$/lb) | 26 | |
Exchange Rate (US$:C$) | 0.78 | |
LOM (years) | 9.0 | |
Production | ||
Ni Production (Mlb) | 52.6 | |
Cu Production (Mlb) | 30.7 | |
NiEq Mine Production (Mlb) | 65.3 | |
Average NiEq Annual Production (Mlb) | 7.3 | |
Operating Costs | ||
Mining Cost ($/t Mined) | 38.93 | |
Processing Cost ($/t Processed) | 17.74 | |
G&A Cost ($/t Processed) | 7.96 | |
Total Operating Costs ($/t Processed) | 64.64 | |
NSR Royalty after 1.5% buyback (%) | 2.50 | |
Cash Costs (US$/lb NiEq) | 3.76 | |
AISC (US$/lb NiEq) | 4.99 | |
Capital Costs | ||
Initial Capital ($M) | 133.7 | |
Sustaining Capital ($M) | 93.1 | |
Closure Costs ($M) | 10.0 | |
Financials | Pre-Tax | After-Tax |
NPV (5%) ($M) | 182.5 | 109.1 |
IRR (%) | 26 | 20 |
Payback (years) | 3.4 | 3.5 |
The previous Mineral Resource Estimate on the Kenbridge Project was disclosed on September 2, 2020, and was based on a combination of pit-constrained and out-of-pit Mineral Resources. There has since been 10 holes drilled in 2021. Updated engineering studies have indicated that potential pit-constrained Mineral Resources are less economic than out-of-pit Mineral Resources. Therefore, the new drill holes have been incorporated into an updated Mineral Resource Estimate based on a potential underground mining operation, as presented in Table 3 below. The effective date of the Mineral Resource is July 6, 2022.
Table 3 Mineral Resource Estimate(1-4) | |||||||||
Class | Cut-off NSR C$/t | Tonnes (k) | Ni (%) | Ni (Mlb) | Cu (%) | Cu (Mlb) | Co (%) | Co (Mlb) | NSR (C$/t) |
Measured | 100 | 1,867 | 0.99 | 41.0 | 0.50 | 20.6 | 0.017 | 0.7 | 184.40 |
Indicated | 100 | 1,578 | 0.95 | 33.0 | 0.53 | 18.5 | 0.009 | 0.3 | 180.26 |
Meas+Ind | 100 | 3,445 | 0.97 | 74.0 | 0.52 | 39.1 | 0.013 | 1.0 | 182.51 |
Inferred | 100 | 1,014 | 1.47 | 32.7 | 0.67 | 14.9 | 0.011 | 0.2 | 263.38 |
Note: Ni =Nickel Cu = Copper, Co = Cobalt, NSR = Net Smelter Return.
1. Mineral Resources which are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.
2. The estimate of Mineral Resources may be materially affected by environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues.
3. The Inferred Mineral Resource in this estimate has a lower level of confidence than that applied to an Indicated Mineral Resource and must not be converted to a Mineral Reserve. It is reasonably expected that the majority of the Inferred Mineral Resource could be upgraded to an Indicated Mineral Resource with continued exploration.
4. The Mineral Resources were estimated using the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM), CIM Standards on Mineral Resources and Reserves, Definitions and Guidelines (2014) and Best Practices Guidelines (2019) prepared by the CIM Standing Committee on Reserve Definitions and adopted by the CIM Council.
5. The Mineral Resource Estimate is based on US$ metal prices of $8.25/lb Ni, $4.00/lb Cu, $26/lb Co. The US$:CDN$ exchange rate used was 0.76.
6. The NSR estimate uses flotation recoveries of 75% for Ni, 77% for Cu, 40% for Co and smelter payables of 92% for Ni, 96% for Cu, 50% for Co.
7. Mineral Resources were determined to be potentially extractable with the longhole mining method based on an underground mining cost of $77/t mined, processing of $19/t and G&A costs of $4/t.
Cautionary Statement - The reader is advised that the PEA summarized in this news release is intended to provide only an initial, high-level review of the project potential and design options. The PEA mine plan and economic model include numerous assumptions and the use of Inferred Mineral Resources. Inferred Mineral Resources are considered to be too speculative to be used in an economic analysis except as allowed by NI 43-101 in PEA studies. There is no guarantee the project economics described herein will be achieved.
About Tartisan Nickel Corp.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. is a Canadian based mineral exploration and development company whose flagship asset is the Kenbridge Nickel-Copper Project located in the Kenora Mining District, Northwestern Ontario. Tartisan also owns; the Sill Lake Silver Property in Sault St. Marie, Ontario as well as the Don Pancho Manganese-Zinc-Lead-Silver Project in Peru.
Tartisan Nickel Corp. common shares are listed on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE: TN) (OTCQX: TTSRF) (FSE: 8TA). Currently, there are 108,922,503 shares outstanding (120,218,018 fully diluted).
Dean MacEachern, P.Geo. and Eugene Puritch, P.Eng, FEC, CET are the respective Company and independent Qualified Persons under NI 43-101 and have read and approved the technical content of this News Release.
The Company will file the PEA on SEDAR at www.sedar.com in accordance with NI 43-101 within 45 days of this news release.
For further information, please contact Mark Appleby, President & CEO, and a Director of the Company, at 416-804-0280 (info@tartisannickel.com). Additional information about Tartisan Nickel Corp. can be found at the Company's website at www.tartisannickel.com or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
This news release may contain forward-looking statements including but not limited to comments regarding the timing and content of upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt of property titles, potential mineral recovery processes, etc. Forward-looking statements address future events and conditions and therefore, involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated in such statements.
The Canadian Securities Exchange (operated by CNSX Markets Inc.) has neither approved nor disapproved of the contents of this press release.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/130620
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Eastern Metals Granted $910,750 in Junior Minerals Exploration Incentive Tax Credits
Refundable tax offsets / franking credits available for potential distribution to eligible shareholders for the 2024-25 financial year
Eastern Metals Ltd (ASX: EMS) (“Eastern Metals” or “the Company”) is pleased to advise that it has been successful in its application to participate in the Australian Government’s Junior Minerals Exploration Incentive (“JMEI”) for the 2024-25 income tax year, and has been awarded an allocation of $910,750 in exploration credits.
- Eastern Metals has been successful in its application for the Australian Government's Junior Minerals Exploration Incentive scheme for the 2024-25 income tax year.
- Eastern Metals has received an allocation of $910,750 in refundable tax offsets and franking credits, available for potential distribution to Eligible Shareholders for the 2024-25 income tax year.
The JMEI scheme encourages investment in small, Australian exploration companies that carry out greenfields mineral exploration and allows those companies to convert a portion of their tax losses into credits (franking or offset) to be passed on to “Eligible Shareholders”.
Eligible Shareholders are entitled to receive JMEI credits and must be Australian resident shareholders who invest, for cash, in newly issued Eastern Metals shares (for example, in a Placement Offer, Entitlement Offer or Share Purchase Plan) between 1 July 2024 and 30 June 2025.
Individual shareholders, trusts or superannuation funds will be entitled to refundable tax offsets, and in the case of corporate investors, franking credits. JMEI credits are distributed to all Eligible Shareholders on a pro-rata basis.
Should an Eligible Shareholder receive newly issued EMS shares in the 2024-25 tax year, Eastern Metals encourages individuals and entities to seek their own tax advice. Further information can be found on the Australian Taxation Office’s (“ATO”) webpage ‘What to do if you receive exploration credits’, here.
The maximum amount of exploration credits for an income year, is the lesser of the following:
- The Company’s actual greenfields exploration expenditure for the income year, multiplied by the Company’s corporate tax rate for the income year.
- The Company’s actual tax loss for the income year, multiplied by the Company’s corporate tax rate.
- The amount of credits the ATO allocated to the Company ($910,750 for the Company during the year ended 30 June 2025), plus any unused portion of the Company’s exploration credits allocation relating to the preceding income year (currently $nil for Eastern Metals).
Further information about the Federal Government's JMEI scheme can be found here.
Eastern Metals would like to thank the Australian Government for its support, and the Association of Mining and Exploration Companies for its advocacy on behalf of junior exploration companies in relation to the JMEI scheme.
Click here for the full ASX Release
This article includes content from Eastern Metals, licensed for the purpose of publishing on Investing News Australia. This article does not constitute financial product advice. It is your responsibility to perform proper due diligence before acting upon any information provided here. Please refer to our full disclaimer here.
Lobo Tiggre: Shopping for Silver Stocks, Watching "Powerful" Gold Mover
Lobo Tiggre, CEO of IndependentSpeculator.com, shared his updated thoughts on gold, silver and uranium.
When it comes to gold, he pointed to a "powerful mover" that he thinks could be in play — a change in global portfolio allocations to the yellow metal. Historically the allocation has been 2 percent, but more recently it's been 0.5 percent.
"I think that what we're seeing is that changing. And maybe it doesn't go back to 2 percent, but if it just goes back to 1 percent, that doubles the investment demand for gold from where we are now," he said.
Looking at silver, he said lately it's correlated more closely to copper than to gold; however, that dynamic now seems to be changing. "I think it's fantastic — not just good — I think it's fantastic news for silver ... that it's acting as a monetary metal should," he said at the Rule Symposium, held last week in Boca Raton, Florida.
With that in mind, Tiggre and his team are on the lookout for stocks that meet his criteria. One of those is jurisdiction — while he's seen strong discoveries in places like Mexico, the political risk is too high for him to be interested.
Watch the interview above for more from Tiggre on gold and silver, as well uranium.
You can also click here to view the Investing News Network's Rule Symposium playlist on YouTube. Recorded presentations from the Rule Symposium are available here.
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.
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Silver Crown Royalties Receives Conditional Approval to Trade on Cboe
Silver Crown Royalties Inc. (“Silver Crown”, “SCRi”, the “Corporation”, or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the Cboe Canada Inc. stock exchange (“Cboe Canada”) has granted conditional approval of the Company's listing application and that the common shares of the Company will be listed and commence trading on Cboe Canada at the open of the market on Thursday, July 25, 2024.
Peter Bures, Silver Crown’s Chief Executive Officer, commented: “We are thrilled to announce our conditional approval to list on Cboe Canada. Having a target listing date of July 25 for a pure silver equity vehicle is truly special and the culmination of several years of hard work for our team. This milestone marks a significant step forward for Silver Crown and should provide us with increased visibility as well as access to a broader investor base. The listing should also lower our cost of equity capital, enabling us to accelerate growth, expand our market presence, and deliver greater value to our shareholders with less dilution.”
ABOUT CBOE CANADA
Cboe Canada is Canada's Tier 1 stock exchange for the purpose-driven Innovation Economy, providing a best-in-class listing experience for issuers that are shaping the economies of tomorrow. Fully operational since 2015, Cboe Canada lists investment products and companies seeking an internationally recognized stock exchange that enables investor trust, quality liquidity, and broad awareness including unfettered access to market data.
Cboe Canada is part of the Cboe Global Markets network, leveraging deep international expertise, industry-leading market intelligence and technology, and unparalleled service to deliver what stakeholders and the world need now, and for the future.
ABOUT SILVER CROWN ROYALTIES INC.
Founded by industry veterans, SCRi is a pre-IPO stage revenue-generating silver-only royalty company focusing on silver as byproduct credits. SCRi aims to minimize the economic impact on mining projects while maximizing returns for shareholders. SCRi presently has two sources of revenues and continues to build on this foundation, targeting additional operational silver-producing projects.
For further information, please contact:
Silver Crown Royalties Inc.Peter BuresChairman and CEO Email: pbures@silvercrownroyalties.com
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This release contains certain “forward looking statements” and certain “forward-looking information” as defined under applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may”, “will”, “should”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “plans” or similar terminology. The forward-looking information contained herein is provided for the purpose of assisting readers in understanding management’s current expectations and plans relating to the future. Readers are cautioned that such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements and information include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the listing of the Common Shares on Cboe and the completion of the Subsequent Offering. Forward-looking statements and information are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions that, while believed by management to be reasonable, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual actions, events or results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: the impact of general business and economic conditions; the absence of control over mining operations from which SCRi will purchase gold and other metals or from which it will receive royalty payments and risks related to those mining operations, including risks related to international operations, government and environmental regulation, delays in mine construction and operations, actual results of mining and current exploration activities, conclusions of economic evaluations and changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; accidents, equipment breakdowns, title matters, labor disputes or other unanticipated difficulties or interruptions in operations; SCRi’s ability to enter into definitive agreements and close proposed royalty transactions; the inherent uncertainties related to the valuations ascribed by SCRi to its royalty interests; problems inherent to the marketability of gold and other metals; the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; industry conditions, including fluctuations in the price of the primary commodities mined at such operations, fluctuations in foreign exchange rates and fluctuations in interest rates; government entities interpreting existing tax legislation or enacting new tax legislation in a way which adversely affects SCRi; stock market volatility; regulatory restrictions; liability, competition, the potential impact of epidemics, pandemics or other public health crises on SCRi’s business, operations and financial condition, loss of key employees. SCRi has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. SCRi undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information except as required by applicable law. Such forward-looking information represents management's best judgment based on information currently available.
This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities of the Company in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. Any such offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein will be made only pursuant to subscription documentation between the Company and prospective purchasers. Any such offering will be made in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus and registration requirements under applicable securities laws, pursuant to a subscription agreement to be entered into by the Company and prospective investors.
First Majestic Produces 5.3 Million AgEq Oz in Q2 2024 Consisting of 2.1 Million Silver Ounces and 39,339 Gold Ounces; Announces Updated 2024 Production and Cost Guidance and Conference Call Details
First Majestic Silver Corp. (NYSE: AG) (TSX: AG) (FSE: FMV) (the "Company" or "First Majestic") announces that total production in the second quarter of 2024 from the Company's three producing mines in Mexico, the Santa Elena SilverGold Mine, the San Dimas SilverGold Mine, and the La Encantada Silver Mine, reached 5.3 million silver equivalent ("AgEq") ounces, consisting of 2.1 million silver ounces and 39,339 gold ounces. The Company's financial results for the second quarter of 2024 are scheduled to be released on Thursday, August 1, 2024.
Q2 2024 HIGHLIGHTS
Increased Production: Total production in Q2 2024 consisted of 2,104,181 silver ounces and 39,339 gold ounces, representing a 7% and 9% increase, respectively, when compared to Q1 2024. Silver equivalent production for the quarter was 5.3 million ounces, representing a 2% increase compared to Q1. The silver equivalent (Silver:Gold) ratio in Q2 2024 decreased 10% to 81:1 compared to 88:1 in Q1 2024 due to the silver price outperforming the gold price. While higher silver prices positively impact revenue, the reported silver equivalent production is impacted when silver outperforms gold.
La Encantada Increased Production: Since successfully identifying a water source in Q1 2024, water inventory and processing rates at La Encantada have increased significantly leading to a 28% increase in silver production through the second quarter. Plant ore throughput rates are expected to return to targeted levels of approximately 3,000 tonnes per day ("tpd") in Q3 2024.
Santa Elena's Robust Production Continues: Production during the second quarter at Santa Elena totaled 2.6 million AgEq ounces, representing a 13% increase compared to Q1 and is on track to exceed the Company's original annual production guidance plan (see updated guidance section below).
Conversion to Liquefied Natural Gas ("LNG") at San Dimas: To provide an additional, more reliable and lower carbon emission power option at San Dimas, management has launched a process at San Dimas to replace the diesel backup power generation plant with LNG. The main source of power at San Dimas remains cost efficient hydroelectricity sourced from Las Truchas, the Company's 100%-owned and operated hydroelectric power generation facility.
Safety Performance: In Q2 2024, the consolidated Total Reportable Incident Frequency Rate ("TRIFR") remained strong at 0.48, well below the Company's target key performance indicator ("KPI") of
2023 Sustainability Report: The Company released its third Sustainability Report, accompanied by the Company's first analyst-focused Sustainability Data Download containing detailed quantitative data, allowing investors to easily compare First Majestic's key sustainability metrics across time periods.
Sustainability: Continued improvement in the Company's ESG ratings with ISS ESG, achieving performance in the top 40% of the industry in both Environmental and Social categories, reflecting our carbon footprint reduction and community involvement initiatives.
Up to 22 Active Drill Rigs: The Company completed a total of 47,447 metres ("m") of drilling across its mines in Mexico during the second quarter, representing a 31% increase compared to the previous quarter. Throughout the second quarter, up to 22 drill rigs were active consisting of 13 rigs at San Dimas, eight rigs at Santa Elena and one rig at La Encantada.
"Consistent with our plans, our operations delivered a robust quarter, and we are well-positioned for a strong second half of 2024", said Keith Neumeyer, First Majestic's President & CEO. "We are extremely pleased with the production trajectory at Santa Elena, allowing us to revise our guidance upwards on the back of increased throughput and significantly higher gold grades. Additionally, production ramp up at La Encantada demonstrated that the water issues are now behind us with production in H2 expected to return to historical levels."
Production Details Table:
Q2 2024 | Q2 2023 | Y/Y Change | Consolidated Production Results | Q1 2024 | Q/Q Change |
674,570 | 733,170 | (8)% | Ore processed/tonnes milled | 588,651 | 15% |
5,289,439 | 6,320,971 | (16)% | Total production - Silver equivalent ounces | 5,162,283 | 2% |
2,104,181 | 2,633,411 | (20)% | Silver ounces produced | 1,975,176 | 7% |
39,339 | 45,022 | (13)% | Gold ounces produced | 35,936 | 9% |
Quarterly Mine-by-Mine Production Table:
Mine | Ore Processed | Tonnes per Day | Ag Grade (g/t) | Au Grade (g/t) | Ag Recovery | Au Recovery | Ag Oz Produced | Au Oz Produced | AgEq Oz Produced | |
Santa Elena | 256,427 | 2,818 | 69 | 3.52 | 66% | 94% | 376,947 | 27,176 | 2,580,497 | |
San Dimas | 183,188 | 2,013 | 210 | 2.15 | 92% | 95% | 1,141,906 | 12,043 | 2,114,072 | |
La Encantada | 234,955 | 2,582 | 129 | 0.01 | 60% | 90% | 585,329 | 46 | 589,060 |
- Certain amounts shown may not add exactly to the total amount due to rounding differences.
- The Ag:Au ratio used in the calculation of silver equivalent ounces was 81:1.
Santa Elena Silver/Gold Mine:
Santa Elena produced 2.6 million AgEq ounces, consisting of 376,947 silver ounces and 27,176 gold ounces, representing an increase of 6% and 25%, respectively, when compared to the previous quarter. The strong increase in production is primarily due to an increase in ore processed rates and higher gold grades.
The mill processed a total of 256,427 tonnes of ore, a 14% increase compared to the previous quarter, containing average silver and gold head grades of 69 g/t and 3.52 g/t, respectively.
Silver and gold recoveries averaged 66% and 94%, respectively, during the quarter. Metallurgical recoveries remained strong due to the continuous operational optimization of the new dual-circuit plant, enabling higher throughput in the mill while maintaining strong metal recoveries.
During the quarter, a total of eight drill rigs consisting of six surface rigs and two underground rigs completed 15,591 metres of drilling on the property, representing a 57% increase when compared to the prior quarter (9,911 metres).
San Dimas Silver/Gold Mine:
San Dimas produced 2.1 million AgEq ounces during the quarter, consisting of 1,141,906 silver ounces and 12,043 gold ounces, representing a decrease of 2% and 11%, respectively, when compared to Q1 2024. The decrease in production is primarily due to a decrease in fresh ore processed largely as a result of the ongoing labour relations negotiations that the Company is actively conducting with the unionized workers. Management is optimistic about reaching an agreement in the near-term and expects production at San Dimas to increase once that agreement has been reached.
The mill processed a total of 183,188 tonnes of ore with average silver head grades of 210 g/t and gold head grades of 2.15 g/t, representing a decrease of 5% and 12%, respectively, when compared to the previous quarter.
Silver and gold recoveries during the second quarter averaged 92% and 95%, respectively, consistent with the prior quarter.
The Central Block and Sinaloa Graben areas contributed approximately 78% and 22%, respectively, of the total production during the quarter.
During the quarter, a total of 13 drill rigs, consisting of three surface rigs and 10 underground rigs, completed 31,249 metres of drilling on the property, representing a 19% increase when compared to Q1 2024 (26,363 metres).
The results of resource conversion and expansion drilling at San Dimas, published in Q2 2024, continued to delineate and further define known mineralization, and highlight the presence of new silver and gold mineralization (see the Company's News Release dated June 13, 2024).
La Encantada Silver Mine:
During the quarter, La Encantada produced 585,329 silver ounces, representing a 28% increase compared to Q1 2024, primarily due to the identification of a new, reliable water source leading to an increase in ore processed for the quarter.
The mill processed a total of 234,955 tonnes of ore with an average silver grade of 129 g/t, an increase of 27% and 5%, respectively, compared to Q1 2024.
Silver recovery for the quarter achieved 60%, slightly lower from 62% in Q1 2024.
Stope production from the new Beca Zone contributed 26,910 tonnes with average silver grades of 106 g/t.
During the quarter, the 2024 exploration program commenced after securing the new water source with one surface drill rig completing 607 metres of drilling on the property.
OUTLOOK
The Company is updating its full year 2024 guidance to reflect the following changes:
Improved metal price environment: the revised silver and gold price assumptions for the second half of 2024 are $28.00 and $2,300 per ounce.
Strong production forecast at Santa Elena: management is increasing the Santa Elena production forecast to 9.2 to 9.6 million silver equivalent ounces, an increase of 14% (mid-point) compared to the original guidance.
New water source at La Encantada: increased production forecast at La Encantada, with H2 production guidance forecasted to be 38% higher than H1 actuals, based on the mid-point of the updated guidance.
Labour negotiations at San Dimas: management is assuming labour inefficiencies to continue throughout Q3 while negotiations are ongoing with the unionized workers and is planning for normalized production rates at San Dimas in Q4 2024.
As a result of these adjustments, our 2024 consolidated production guidance remains relatively unchanged at 21.4 to 22.6 (mid-point: 22.0) million AgEq ounces compared to the prior guidance of 21.1 to 23.5 (mid-point: 22.3) million AgEq ounces, with a slight increase in silver production offset by a slight decrease in gold production on a consolidated basis.
The Company is also providing updated guidance on a mine-by-mine basis for the second half of 2024.
GUIDANCE FOR SECOND HALF 2024
Silver Oz (M) | Gold Oz (k) | Ag/Eq Oz (M) | Cash Cost | AISC | |
Operation: | ($ per AgEq Oz) | ($ per AgEq Oz) | |||
Santa Elena, Mexico | 0.6 - 0.7 | 45 - 50 | 4.3 - 4.8 | 12.71 - 13.33 | 15.55 - 16.42 |
San Dimas, Mexico | 2.9 - 3.2 | 30 - 34 | 5.3 - 6.0 | 12.46 - 13.21 | 16.35 - 17.47 |
La Encantada, Mexico | 1.4 - 1.5 | - | 1.4 - 1.5 | 19.54 - 20.62 | 23.83 - 25.36 |
Operations Total: | 4.8 - 5.4 | 75 - 84 | 11.0 - 12.2 | 13.41 - 14.15 | 18.54 - 19.79 |
Corporate: | ($ per AgEq Oz) | ($ per AgEq Oz) | |||
Corporate Charges | - | - | - | - | 0.51 - 0.58 |
Total: | ($ per AgEq Oz) | ($ per AgEq Oz) | |||
Consolidated | 4.8 - 5.4 | 75 - 84 | 11.0 - 12.2 | 13.41 - 14.15 | 19.05 - 20.35 |
GUIDANCE FOR FULL YEAR 2024
Silver Oz (M) | Gold Oz (k) | Ag/Eq Oz (M) | Cash Cost | AISC | |
Operation: | ($ per AgEq Oz) | ($ per AgEq Oz) | |||
Santa Elena, Mexico | 1.3 - 1.4 | 94 - 99 | 9.2 - 9.6 | 12.45 - 12.73 | 15.25 - 15.64 |
San Dimas, Mexico | 5.2 - 5.5 | 56 - 59 | 9.8 - 10.4 | 14.17 - 14.69 | 18.69 - 19.45 |
La Encantada, Mexico | 2.4 - 2.5 | - | 2.4 - 2.5 | 21.52 - 22.26 | 26.17 - 27.18 |
Operations Total: | 8.9 - 9.5 | 150 - 158 | 21.4 - 22.6 | 14.25 - 14.68 | 19.73 - 20.45 |
Corporate: | ($ per AgEq Oz) | ($ per AgEq Oz) | |||
Corporate Charges | - | - | - | - | 0.63 - 0.67 |
Total: | ($ per AgEq Oz) | ($ per AgEq Oz) | |||
Consolidated | 8.9 - 9.5 | 150 - 158 | 21.4 - 22.6 | 14.25 - 14.68 | 20.36 - 21.12 |
- Certain amounts shown may not add exactly to the total amount due to rounding differences.
- Cash Costs and AISC are non-GAAP measures and are not standardized financial measures under the Company's financial reporting framework. The Company calculates cash costs and consolidated AISC in the manner set out in the table below. These measures have been calculated on a basis consistent with historical periods (see "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" below).
For the full year of 2024, the Company now estimates silver production will range between 8.9 to 9.5 million ounces compared to the prior guidance of 8.6 to 9.6 million ounces, a 1% increase on the mid-point average. Additionally, gold production is estimated to range between 150,000 to 158,000 ounces compared to the prior guidance of 150,000 to 167,000, a 3% decrease based on the mid-point average.
Annual cash costs are now expected to be within the range of $14.25 to $14.68 per ounce, slightly higher than the previous guidance of $13.69 to $14.46 per ounce, primarily due to a stronger than budgeted Mexican Peso in H1 combined with lower production from San Dimas.
The Company is projecting its consolidated 2024 AISC to be within a range of $20.36 to $21.12 on a per consolidated payable AgEq ounce basis, slightly higher than the original guidance range of $19.25 to $20.57 due to higher cash costs. Excluding non-cash items, the Company anticipates its 2024 AISC to be within a range of $19.57 to $20.27 per payable AgEq ounce. An itemized AISC cost table is provided below:
All-In Sustaining Cost Calculation | FY 2024 ($ per AgEq Oz) | ||||
Total Cash Costs per Payable Equivalent Silver Ounce | 14.25 - 14.68 | ||||
General and Administrative Costs | 1.58 - 1.67 | ||||
Sustaining Development Costs | 1.38 - 1.42 | ||||
Sustaining Property, Plant and Equipment Costs | 0.81 - 0.85 | ||||
Profit Sharing | 0.87 - 0.92 | ||||
Lease Payments | 0.68 - 0.72 | ||||
Share-based Payments (non-cash) | 0.63 - 0.68 | ||||
Accretion of Reclamation Costs (non-cash) | 0.16 - 0.17 | ||||
All-In Sustaining Costs: (AgEq Oz) | 20.36 - 21.12 | ||||
All-In Sustaining Costs: (AgEq Oz excluding non-cash items) | 19.57 - 20.27 |
- AISC is a non-GAAP measure and is calculated based on the Company's consolidated operating performance. Other mining companies may calculate AISC differently as a result of differences in underlying accounting principles, the definition of "sustaining costs" and the distinction between sustaining and expansionary capital costs.
- For further details of these measures, including equivalent historical information, please see "Non-GAAP Measures" on pages 36-43 of the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis for the first quarter of 2024, available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.
UPDATED CAPITAL BUDGET
In 2024, the Company now plans to invest a total of $136.4 million on capital expenditures consisting of $49.5 million for sustaining activities and $87.1 million for expansionary projects. This represents a 9% increase compared to the original 2024 capital expenditures guidance and is aligned with the Company's future growth strategy of increasing exploration and development activities at Santa Elena, San Dimas and Jerritt Canyon.
2024 Capital Guidance ($ Millions) | Sustaining | Expansionary | Total |
Underground Development | 31.2 | 43.3 | 74.5 |
Exploration | - | 37.6 | 37.6 |
Property, Plant and Equipment | 17.7 | 4.1 | 21.8 |
Corporate Projects | 0.6 | 2.1 | 2.7 |
Total | 49.5 | 87.1 | 136.4 |
- Certain amounts shown may not add exactly to the total amount due to rounding differences.
Under the updated 2024 budget, the Company is planning to complete a total of approximately 34,304 metres of lateral underground development, representing an 11% increase on the original guidance. In addition, the Company is now planning to complete a total of approximately 211,600 metres of exploration drilling in 2024, representing a 12% increase compared to the original guidance. In the first half of 2024, the Company completed 14,836 metres of underground development drilling and 83,721 metres of exploration drilling.
CONFERENCE CALL DETAILS
The Company will host a conference call and webcast on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. (PT) / 11:00 a.m. (ET) to provide investors and analysts with a business update and to discuss its second quarter production results and updated 2024 guidance.
To participate in the conference call, please use the following dial-in numbers:
Canada & USA Toll-Free: +1-844-763-8274
Outside of Canada & USA: +1-647-484-8814
Toll-Free Germany: +49-69-17415718
Toll-Free UK: +44-20-3795-9972
Participants should dial in at least 10 minutes prior to the start of the call to ensure placement into the conference on time.
A live webcast of the call will be accessible through the "July 18, 2024 Webcast Link" on the First Majestic home page at www.firstmajestic.com. A webcast archive will be available approximately one hour after the end of the event and will be accessible for three months through the same link as the live event.
A recording of the conference call will be available for telephone replay approximately one hour after the end of the event by calling:
USA Toll-Free: +1-877-344-7529
Canada Toll-Free: +1-855-669-9658
Outside of Canada & USA: +1-412-317-0088
Access Code: 5667555#
The telephone audio replay will be available for seven days following the end of the event.
Q2 2024 EARNINGS AND DIVIDEND ANNOUNCEMENT
The Company is planning to release its second quarter 2024 unaudited financial results, and announce the second quarter dividend payment, shareholder record, and payable dates on August 1, 2024.
ABOUT THE COMPANY
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.
For further information, visit our website at www.firstmajestic.com. You can contact us by e-mail at info@firstmajestic.com, or by telephone at 1.866.529.2807.
FIRST MAJESTIC SILVER CORP.
"signed"
Keith Neumeyer, President & CEO
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
This news release includes reference to certain financial measures which are not standardized measures under the Company's financial reporting framework. These measures include cash costs per silver equivalent ounce and all-in sustaining cost (or "AISC") per silver equivalent ounce. The Company believes that these measures, together with measures determined in accordance with IFRS, provide investors with an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. These measures are widely used in the mining industry as a benchmark for performance but do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore they may not be comparable to similar measures disclosed by other companies. The data is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. For a complete description of how the Company calculates such measures and a reconciliation of certain measures to GAAP terms please see "Non-GAAP Measures" in the Company's most recent management discussion and analysis filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and EDGAR at www.sec.gov and which is incorporated by reference herein.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements
This news release contains "forward‐looking information" and "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws (collectively, "forward‐looking statements"). These statements relate to future events or the Company's future performance, business prospects or opportunities that are based on forecasts of future results, estimates of amounts not yet determinable and assumptions of management made 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: the assumptions used by the Company for its updated 2024 production guidance; timing for the release of the Company's Q2 2024 unaudited financial results; timing for the announcement of the Company's second quarter dividend payment and the shareholder record and payable dates in connection with such dividend payment; future planning processes; commercial mining operations; budgets; the timing and amount of estimated future production, AISC and cash costs; costs and timing of development at the Company's projects; and; capital projects and exploration activities for 2024 and their possible results. 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. 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: the duration and effects of the coronavirus and COVID-19, and any other pandemics on our operations and workforce, and the effects on global economies and society; general economic conditions including inflation risks; actual results of exploration activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; commodity prices; variations in ore reserves, grade or recovery rates; actual performance of plant, equipment or processes relative to specifications and expectations; accidents; labour relations; relations with local communities; changes in national or local governments; changes in applicable legislation or application thereof; delays in obtaining approvals or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities; exchange rate fluctuations; requirements for additional capital; government regulation; environmental risks; reclamation expenses; outcomes of pending litigation; limitations on insurance coverage as well as those factors discussed in the section entitled "Description of the Business - Risk Factors" in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities under the Company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca, and in the Company's Annual Report on Form 40-F for the year ended December 31, 2023 filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar. 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.
The Company 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. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/216951
News Provided by Newsfile via QuoteMedia
Avino Boosts Q2 Silver Production; Gold Output Holds Steady and Copper Slips
Mexico-focused mining company Avino Silver & Gold (TSX:ASM,NYSEAMERICAN:ASM) reported a year-on-year increase in silver production in its second quarter results for 2024.
In a Tuesday (July 16) press release, the company reported total production of 616,571 silver equivalent ounces from its Avino and La Preciosa mines in Mexico, marking a 5 percent increase compared to the same quarter in 2023.
Its silver production saw a 26 percent hike year-on-year to reach 292,946 ounces of the white metal.
In contrast, Avino's copper production was down 10 percent year-on-year, with 1.3 million pounds produced. Its gold production remained steady at 1,514 ounces, while mill throughput decreased by 10 percent to 140,934 dry metric tons.
The Avino mine processed 130,983 dry metric tons of material, from which it produced 262,861 ounces of silver, 1,456 ounces of gold and 1.3 million pounds of copper. Meanwhile, the company’s La Preciosa mine processed 9,951 dry metric tons, yielding 30,085 ounces of silver and 58 ounces of gold in comparison.
The quarterly comparison also showed improvements in several areas. Feed grades for silver and gold increased by 42 and 9 percent respectively, along with a slight 4 percent uptick for copper.
Avino's recovery rate for silver remained consistent at 87 percent, while gold and copper recovery rates improved, with gold up by 3 percent to reach the 70 percent mark and copper up 4 percent to 88 percent recovery.
David Wolfin, president and CEO of Avino, said processing surface stockpile material from La Preciosa was a factor in the company's significant increase in silver production during the second quarter.
He also highlighted the anticipation of receiving environmental permits for La Preciosa. “La Preciosa is an integral piece of our 5-year plan and will deliver economic growth and benefit to the local communities in Durango. With the price of silver gaining momentum, we remain focused on delivering organic growth for all stakeholders,” he commented.
Avino is on track to meet its full-year production target of 2.5 million to 2.8 million silver equivalent ounces.
The company faced some production challenges in the latter part of Q2 due to repairs on a cone crusher. However, a smaller crusher was used to minimize downtime, and full mill capacity is expected to be restored soon.
Avino's Q2 earnings call is scheduled for August 10. During that time, the company will provide detailed analysis of its quarterly production and financial performance.
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.
Silver Price Update: Q2 2024 in Review
The silver price saw significant gains through the first half of 2024, hitting levels not seen in over a decade.
After starting the year trading in the US$22 per ounce range, the price of silver saw little change until March, when the white metal began to gain momentum following a US Federal Reserve meeting.
While the Fed left interest rates steady at that time, dovish language provided critical support for silver as investors pushed the price above US$25. Silver continued its upward trend through April and into May, when it climbed above US$32 for the first time since November 2012 and set a year-to-date high of US$32.07 on May 27.
Silver price breaks important US$30 level
A number of factors have been driving the price of silver upward in 2024.
Even though rate cuts from the Fed have yet to materialize, softening interest rates and slowing economic growth have led to greater speculation that at least one reduction will come in the second half of the year.
Silver was initially followed gold higher in the March to May period. However, the gains in silver have outpaced gold nearly two to one in 2024. To date, silver has risen nearly 30 percent, while gold has only gained 15 percent.
Silver price, January 1, 2024, to July 16, 2024.
Chart via Trading Economics.
The pace of these gains has led to improving sentiment among investors. As of April, managed money positions in silver had climbed to their highest level since May 2022, and exchange-traded product holdings rose to their highest since July 2023, as outlined in the Silver Institute’s 2024 World Silver Survey presentation and report.
In an email to the Investing News Network (INN), Silver Institute President and CEO Michael DiRienzo said that the close link between silver and gold has led some investors to use it as a leverage play to gain exposure to gold.
“In addition, silver’s low unit cost and lower entry level have also made it more attractive to retail investors with a limited investment budget,” DiRienzo explained.
This was a point echoed by IndependentSpeculator.com CEO Lobo Tiggre in an interview with INN that took place on July 9. He suggested that even though silver has acted more like an industrial metal over the last several years, 2024 has seen investors once again looking at it for its value as a precious metal.
“That market dynamic has changed, and it’s moving more strongly with gold again as a monetary metal should … I think it's fantastic news for silver — and long-suffering silver bulls out there,” he said.
Industrial silver demand continues climbing in India, China
Improved sentiment has coincided with heightened industrial demand, particularly in the Indian market. Overall, silver demand is projected to grow by 2 percent in 2024, with the Silver Institute forecasting that industrial demand will increase by 9 percent — photovoltaics alone are expected to see a 20 percent gain.
As mentioned, India in particular has upped its silver purchases in 2024. Its imports came to a record 2,295 metric tons of silver in February, nearly outstripping an entire month of global mine supply. Though purchases have waned as prices have risen, the first four months of the year saw India import more silver than it did for all of 2023.
DiRienzo said that while the primary silver demand in India continues to be from the production of jewelry, the precious metal has also benefited from “firmer electrical & electronics demand, thanks to the continued strength in India’s real estate market and rising investment in local infrastructure construction.”
Additionally, he noted that Indian manufacturing of solar cells received additional support as companies reduced their reliance on Chinese manufacturing and diversified their supply lines for solar panels.
India has been the biggest driver in the photovoltaics category as the country continues building up its domestic solar supply chain through efforts such as its Approved List of Models and Manufacturers, which consists wholly of domestic companies. After a pause due to supply concerns last year, the nation's government reinstated the mandate as of April 1 of this year — as a result, government-funded and subsidized solar projects in India must source their solar photovoltaic modules from one of the companies included on the list.
Even so, China remains the global leader in photovoltaics production. And with new N-Type TopCon panels — which require 50 percent more silver — set to become the industry standard, industrial demand is set to rise even further.
Last year, a flagging Chinese economy not only put base metals under pressure, but dragged on silver as well. According to DiRienzo, fiscal stimulus measures implemented by the Chinese government have provided crucial support.
“Expectations on further fiscal stimulus for the Chinese economy led to a sharp rebound in base metal prices during 2024-to-date, which has benefited silver,” he said.
New silver mine supply won't outweigh deficit
While both retail and industrial demand is growing, it’s not just demand driving prices.
Silver is also facing a severe supply crisis as a deficit that began to emerge in 2021 continues to widen, with the Silver Institute forecasting that the deficit will reach 215 million ounces by the end of 2024.
According to the Silver Institute, Mexico and Argentina had steep output declines in 2023, with production falling by 10.9 million ounces and 4.9 million ounces, respectively. The Silver Institute predicts that global production will fall further in 2024 to 823.5 million ounces due to the closure of several mines in Peru.
While it isn’t expected to eclipse these declines, new silver supply is coming online from various sources this year.
The Silver Institute forecasts an increase from Mexico this year now that Newmont’s (TSX:NGT,NYSE:NEM) Peñasquito mine is back at full operating capacity following a strike in 2023. Additionally, Endeavour Silver (TSX:EDR,NYSE:EXK) announced in April that its Terronera project was more than 50 percent complete and on schedule to begin production at the end of 2024. The mine will add 4 million ounces of silver supply to global markets annually.
The US is also increasing its silver output this year. Hecla Mining Company's (NYSE:HL) Lucky Friday mine in Idaho returned to full production in March, while the expansion at Coeur Mining’s (NYSE:CDE) Rochester silver-gold mine in Nevada entered commercial operation at the end of the first quarter. Once fully ramped up, it will be the largest domestic source of silver in the US, processing 32 million metric tons of ore per year.
Aya Gold and Silver (TSX:AYA,OTCQX:AYASF) provided an update on progress at its Zgounder mine expansion in Morocco on July 9, announcing it had made the first silver pour. The company said it remains on schedule for commercial production to begin in Q4. Once fully ramped up, the expanded mine is expected to produce 6.8 million ounces of silver per year, a significant increase from its 2023 output of 1.97 million ounces.
Despite these new and expanded mining operations bringing significant new silver supply to the market, it’s still a far cry from meeting the more than 200 million ounce deficit.
How high can the silver price rise in 2024?
While gold tends to garner more of the media attention, silver has already been a stronger performer in 2024. Since its move began this year, a variety of experts have suggested the white metal has further to go.
In an interview with INN on July 3, Chris Vermeulen, chief market strategist at TheTechnicalTraders.com, suggested that silver is at a multi-year consolidation. He thinks a run over the next few months to US$36 per ounce is a possibility.
Peter Krauth, editor of Silver Stock Investor, told INN on May 24 that silver might experience a slight pullback over the next couple of months, but would likely establish a new floor at US$30. This came to pass as silver traded in the US$29 range in June before stabilizing above US$30 through the first half of July.
“We still have the gold-to-silver ratio somewhere around 75; it's averaged about 55 or 60 over the last few decades, so just on that basis if gold were to stay put, silver has a lot higher to go,” Krauth said.
“Typically when you get the ratio running down, both metals do well, but silver continues to do even better … so look for this to be a really tremendous run over the next months and years," he added.
While this might not be good news for manufacturers that require silver and consumers who buy their products, it's positive news for existing silver investors and new market participants who are looking for opportunities for a safe-haven investment that doesn’t come with the high entry point of gold.
There are also opportunities in silver stocks, which have been undervalued in recent years — in fact, many silver stocks have already seen significant gains this year. For example, silver producer Endeavour Silver and advanced development-stage companies GR Silver Mining (TSXV:GRSL,OTCQB:GRSLF) and Defiance Silver (TSXV:DEF,OTCQX:DNCVF) have all gained more than 100 percent from the start of the year through July 9.
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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