Victory Battery Metals (CSE:VR,FWB:VR61,OTCPINK:VRCFF) pivots to battery metals with a focus on its flagship project, Smokey Lithium situated very close to the only lithium-producing silver mine in North America. The company also maintains five other projects: Stingray Lithium Array in James Bay, Quebec; Georgia Lake Lithium property, Ontario; Tahlo Lake, in the Babine Copper-Gold Porphyry District, British Columbia; Saguenay Nickel Project, Quebec; and Black Diablo Copper and Manganese in Nevada.
These projects’ strategic locations in mining-friendly and infrastructure-ready jurisdictions position Victory to not only explore new sources of critical battery metals required to meet the growing demand but also help disrupt the currently unbalanced supply chain, with China dominating roughly 70 percent of global lithium production despite the fact it only supplies 13 percent of the world's lithium.
Given China's questionable mining practices and propensity for leveraging the global supply chain as a political weapon, the status quo is far from ideal. Unsurprisingly, many countries — Canada and the United States among them — are investing heavily into establishing a domestic lithium supply chain. Victory Battery Metals is ideally positioned to take advantage of these investment efforts.
This Victory Battery Metalsprofile is part of a paid investor education campaign.*
Victory Battery Metals CORP. (CSE:VR)(OTC PINK:VRCFF)(FWB:VR6) is pleased to announce that its board of directors now consist of Gerald Tritt, David Stadnyk and George Tsafalas, all of Vancouver, BC. David Stadnyk has assumed the role of president and CEO. The Company intends to close its recently announced Yellow Chief Uranium acquisition in the next 10 days
The Company wishes to thank Mark Ireton for his service to the company and wishes him well in his future endeavors.
About Victory Battery Metals Corp.
Victory Battery Metals CORP. (CSE:VR) is a publicly traded diversified investment corporation with mineral interests in North America. The company is also actively seeking other exploration opportunities.
For further information, please contact:
David Stadnyk, President
Telephone: TOLL FREE 1 (855) 665-GOLD (4653)
E-mail: info@victorybatterymetals.com
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.
SOURCE: Victory Battery Metals Corp.
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Victory Battery Metals Corp. (CSE:VR)(OTC PINK:VRCFF)(FWB:VR6) welcomes Gary Musil as a director of the Company, effective July 1, 2024. Gary Musil has more than 35 years of management and financial consulting experience and has served as an officer and director on numerous public companies since 1988. This experience has resulted in his overseeing the financial aspects and expenditures on exploration projects in Peru, Chile, Eastern Europe (Slovak Republic), and British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan and New Brunswick (Canada). Prior to his public company work, he was employed for 15 years with Dickenson Mines Ltd. and Kam-Kotia Mines Ltd., as the Controller for their producing silverleadzinc mine in the interior of British Columbia
Mr. Musil replaces David Lane, who has resigned from the Company's Board of Directors. Victory Battery Metals would like to thank Mr. Lane for his contribution to the Company and wish him the best in his future endeavors.
The company also announces today that it will undertake a non-brokered private placement of up to $675,000 by the issuance of 20,454,545 units at $0.033, each unit consisting of one share and one half a warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder to additional share for 2 years at a price of $0.10.
In connection with the Offering, the Company may pay finder's fees in cash or securities or a combination of both, as permitted by the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "CSE") and applicable securities laws. The common shares and warrants comprising the Units will be subject to a four-month and one-day hold period.
The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the offering for working capital requirements and other general corporate purposes.
About Victory Battery Metals
Victory is a publicly traded diversified investment corporation with mineral interests in North America. The Company's head office is located at 1780-355 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC, V6C 2C8, and its Common Shares are currently listed on the CSE.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information
Statements in this press release regarding the Company which are not historical facts are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking information can be generally identified by terms such as "may", "expect", "estimate", "anticipate", "intend", "believe", and "continue" or the negative thereof or similar variations. Since forward-looking statements address future events and conditions, by their very nature, they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. The Company provides forward-looking statements for the purpose of conveying information about current expectations and plans relating to the future, and readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. By its nature, this forward-looking information is subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific and which give rise to the possibility that expectations, forecasts, predictions, projections or conclusions may not prove to be accurate, that assumptions may not be correct, and that objectives, strategic goals and priorities may not be achieved. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to those identified and reported under the Company's disclosure documents available on its SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.com.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact:
Mark Ireton, President
Phone: +1 (236) 317-2822 or toll-free +1 (855) 665-GOLD (4653)
E-mail: info@victorybatterymetals.com
www.victorybatterymetals.com
Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.
SOURCE: Victory Battery Metals Corp.
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Victory Battery Metals CORP. (CSE:VR)(OTC PINK:VRCFF)(FRA:VR6) is pleased to announce that it has significantly expanded it's focus on uranium, with the acquisition of the Yellow Chief uranium property in Utah, and a portfolio of four uranium properties in Saskatchewan. When combined with the previously announced Chariot River property in Saskatchewan, the companies holdings comprise 3,643 hectres
Terms of the Option Agreement are:
The Option Agreement dated June 26, 2024, subject to CSE approval, provides Victory the sole exclusive right to acquire 100% interest in the Property in accordance with the following terms: by making aggregate cash payments of $200,000 to Yellow Chief, issuing an aggregate of 16,000,000 common shares to Yellow Chief and incurring aggregate exploration expenditures of $500,000 on the Property as follows:
(a) Paying $200,000 in cash to Yellow Chief as follows: |
(i) $100,000 within 14 days of signature; |
(ii) $50,000 on the first anniversary of the initial payment; |
(iii) $50,000 on the second anniversary date; |
(b) Issuing 16,000,000 common shares of Victory Battery Metals Corp as follows: |
(i) 8,000,000 common shares upon signature of the Agreement; |
(ii) 4,000,000 common shares on or before the 1st anniversary of the Effective Date; |
(iii) 4,000,000 common shares of on or before the 2nd anniversary of the Effective Date; |
c) Incurring aggregate exploration expenditures of $600,000 on the Property as follows |
(i) $100,000 on or before the first anniversary date of the Agreement |
(ii) an aggregate of $200,000 on or before the second anniversary date of the Agreement |
(iii) an aggregate of $300,000 on or before the third anniversary date of the Agreement. |
YELLOW CHIEF URANIUM PROPERTY - Located in mining-friendly Juab County in western Utah, the Yellow Chief property comprises 28 claims covering 130 hectares. Juab county is an active exploration and mining area, with beryllium produced by Materion from the Spor Mountain mine, gold exploration and production at the Tintic mine by Osisko Development Corp, and drilling and exploration at the Tintic project by Ivanhoe Electric (Utah Geological Survey Circular 134, 37 pages).
The property covers the northern portion of the past producing open pit, and prospective volcanic tuff units trending to the northeast of the pit. The Yellow Chief Mine was developed from 1959 to 1962 as an open pit,
" …..which reached horizontal dimensions of 1,200 by 300-500 feet (366 m by 91-152 m) and a depth of 100-150 feet (30-46 m). Approximately 100,000 tons (90,700 metric tons) of 0.20-0.23 percent uranium ore was produced from the deposit (Bowyer, 1963)." * |
* As reported in; (URANIUM MINERALIZATION IN FLUORINE-ENRICHED VOLCANIC ROCKS, Burt, D. M. et. Al, 1980, prepared for the U. S. Department of Energy. Subcontract No. 79-270-E)
"Uranium mineralization at the Yellow Chief mine occurs as lenses of disseminated secondary uranium minerals (mostly beta-uranophane) in a 100-to 120-foot (30-37 m) thick sequence of conglomerate and tuffaceous sandstone that directly underlies the "beryllium tuff member" of the Spor Mountain Formation." ** |
** As reported in; (URANIUM POTENTIAL IN UTAH, Gloyn, R. W. and Krahulec, K, 2004, UTAH GEOLOGICAL SURVEY)
The Yellow Chief uranium mine is only 6 kilometers east of Materion Corp.'s open pit operations for beryllium (Be) ore. Beryllium is a high-value, essential, light metal with wide applications in the aerospace, computer, telecommunications, electronics, medical, satellite and defence sectors. The Spor Mountain operations are the largest source of beryllium in the United States, accounting for approximately 63 per cent of the world's annual production in 2020.
Little information is available regarding previous exploration programs in the area. The Company will conduct mapping and sampling of the open pit sites, with a focus on planning a drill program to test for the favorable uranium (+/- Be) units, North and Northeast of a mapped East to North-East trending fault mapped in the pit.
PK Property - The PK property covers 1 claim comprising 1090.0 hectares located northeast of the Athabasca Basin, within the Charlebois-Higginson uranium district. Also known as the "Pinkham East" property, the claims were last explored in the late 1970's. Assessment reports indicate the PK property high (to 100 times background) radioactivity in pegmatite. Radioactivity is reported to be associated with a coarse-grained, off-white leucocratic pegmatite. This rock contains white feldspar and local large biotite books. The pegmatite may extend along strike more than 1700 m. Only limited sampling (3 samples) was completed with uranium values of up to 0.035% U3O8.
Fine-grained, reddish brown sandstone boulders cover the grid area of the PK property with boulders reported up 1 metre in diameter and friable, that are unlikely to have survive glacial ice transport over large distances. It was interpreted that they may be sourced from an outlier of the Athabasca Formation. If found insitu, this would be the furthest north occurrence of Athabasca Formation and the unconformity would be an attractive target for uranium mineralization.
Mozzie Halo East and Mozzie Halo West Properties - This package comprises three blocks of claims, located around the core Mozzie East and West Properties. The Mozzie East and West Properties are held by other land owners. Combined the Company's three properties total 445 hectares with two blocks adjacent to the Mozzie West property, and one claim adjacent to the Mozzie East property. The Mozzie West and East properties were previously held by Pegasus Resources Ltd. (refer to Pegasus Press Release, October 20, 2021):
"The Mozzie Lake property consists of two claim blocks that are situated approximately 25 and 40 km northeast of the edge of the Athabasca basin. It is located within the Charlebois-Higgingson Lake uranium district. Highlights: - Historical resource estimate at the 20A zone with 204,200 tons at 0.119 per cent triuranium octoxidem at an average width of 15.8 feet (4.8 metres), containing 535,718 pounds of uranium*; |
The mineralization is hosted within pegmatite intrusions. The pegmatite deposits of the Charlebois-Higgingson Lake uranium district have remained largely dormant since it was first explored in the 1940s to 1960s era. There are historical references to rare-earth-element-(REE)-bearing minerals in the region, including at the Pinkham Lake prospects on the Mozzie Lake property. The company believes that a re-evaluation of the district with respect to REE mineralization should be conducted to potentially bolster the uranium potential of the project(s). |
*The historical resource estimate was completed by Trigg, Woollett & Associates Ltd. on behalf of King Resources Company in 1968 (Sask. assessment report 74P07-0043). The historical mineral resource estimates listed above either use categories that are not compliant with National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and cannot be compared to NI 43-101 categories, or are not current estimates as prescribed by NI 43-101, and therefore should not be relied upon. A qualified person has not done sufficient work to classify the estimates as current resources and Pegasus is not treating the estimates as a current resource estimate." |
Mr. Mark Ireton, Victory President and CEO noted "Victory is pleased to advise having enhanced the property portfolio with the addition of these uranium properties bringing total uranium holdings to 12,815 Ha including Sept Ilse Uranium, Quebec with 9,042 Ha, 130 Ha in Juab County, Utah and 3,643 Ha in Saskatchewan. Uranium focus comes with geographic diversity and encouraging property advancement potential given results, features and findings from past work programs on all properties prior to their acquisition by Victory."
Scientific and technical information contained in this press release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Helgi Sigurgeirson (P.Geo. with EGBC) and a "qualified person" under NI 43-101 and Consultant to Victory Battery Metals Corp.
About Victory Battery Metals Corp.
Victory Battery Metals CORP. (CSE:VR) is a publicly traded diversified investment corporation with mineral interests in North America. The company is also actively seeking other exploration opportunities.
For further information, please contact:
Mark Ireton, President
Telephone: +1 (236) 317 2822 or TOLL FREE 1 (855) 665-GOLD (4653)
E-mail: info@victorybatterymetals.com
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.
SOURCE:Victory Battery Metals Corp.
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Victory Battery Metals Corp. (CSE:VR)(FWB:VR61)(OTC PINK:VRCFF) ("Victory" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its sale of its Tahlo Lake, British Columbia property to a private company, Trimera Metals Corp., of Vancouver, British Columbia
Highlights of the Tahlo Lake Sale:
Mark Ireton, Victory CEO and Director noted: "The recent announcement of our option agreement to acquire 100% interest in the Kachiwiss Uranium Project in Quebec is indicative of renewed strategic focus for the Company. The Kachiwiss Uranium deposit has significant historical reports, defining a zone of interest1 that represents the best application of our resources, with the aim to return benefits to Victory shareholders in the shorter term. Selling Tahlo Lake at this time serves our renewed strategic focus."
1 Kachiwiss Uranium Project Historical Findings:
2Quebec Government Sigeom - Lac Kachiwiss File CGM 22J/01.001 - Oct 21/2011.
Scientific and technical information contained in this press release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Réjean Girard, Quebec Geologist, P.Geo (OGQ 521) and a "qualified person" under NI 43-101.
Correcting statement:
On April 18, 2024, VBM announced entering into an option agreement dated April 11, 2024 to acquire 100% interest in four claim groupings in the Sept Iles region of Quebec from GLOBEX MINING ENTERPRISES INC. (GMX - Toronto Stock Exchange, G1MN - Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Berlin, Munich, Tradegate, Lang & Schwarz, LS Exchange, TTMzero, Düsseldorf and Quotrix Düsseldorf Stock Exchanges and GLBXF - OTCQX International in the US). The press release stated terms of payment to include the issuance of 1.5 million shares to Globex Mining Enterprises Inc. over 3 years. The actual amount of shares to be issued is 1,250,000.
For further information, please contact:
Mark Ireton, President
Telephone: +1 (236) 317 2822 or TOLL FREE 1 (855) 665-GOLD (4653)
E-mail: info@victorybatterymetals.com
About Victory Battery Metals Corp.
Victory Battery Metals CORP. (CSE:VR) is a publicly traded diversified investment corporation with mineral interests in North America. The company is also actively seeking other exploration opportunities.
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward-Looking Statements
Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.
SOURCE: Victory Battery Metals Corp.
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Victory Battery Metals CORP. (CSE:VR)(OTC PINK:VRCFF)(FWB:VR6) is pleased to announce that it has entered into an option agreement dated April 11, 2024 to acquire 100% interest in four claim groupings in the Sept Iles region of Quebec. These claims are being optioned from GLOBEX MINING ENTERPRISES INC. (GMX - Toronto Stock Exchange, G1MN - Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Berlin, Munich, Tradegate, Lang & Schwarz, LS Exchange, TTMzero, Düsseldorf and Quotrix Düsseldorf Stock Exchangesand GLBXF - OTCQX International in the US). Under terms of the agreement Victory will pay to Globex $400,000 in cash and 1,500,000 Victory shares over 3 years. In addition, Victory commits to execute a work program of a minimum of $3,000,000 on the claims over a 4-year period
The claims cover the Kachiwiss Uranium deposit with a reported historical, 1978 non-Ni 43-101, compliant, non-classified resource of 16,598,000 tonnes grading 0.016% U3O8 within a pegmatic dyke oriented NW45o. The zone, as currently defined, measures 975 metres long by 610 metres to 760 metres wide and is open. Historical metallurgical test work suggested recoveries of up to 92.9% can be achieved 1. The same report mentions the presence of thorium in the region, In addition to the Kachiwiss deposit, the option includes a large package of claims covering lake bottom sediment sample uranium anomalies farther to the north. In total, 156 mining claims make up the package with Globex retaining a 10-kilometre area of mutual interest surrounding the current claim blocks.
Under the agreement, Globex also retains a 3% Gross Metal Royalty on all metals, minerals, elements or compounds including but not limited to uranium, thorium or any other marketable product from the claims. Victory may, at anytime, purchase 1% GMR from Globex for a single cash payment of $1,000,000.
Mr. Mark Ireton, Victory President and CEO noted "This is the first meaningful uranium acquisition of such that will position the company in both battery metals and energy metals spaces. We at Victory Battery Metals are excited by the potential this property holds. Uranium is a proven source of clean cheap power and advanced research into thorium is emerging a primary source of power for the future Located in the mining friendly province of Quebec, the project is in a region known for its deep-water port, its excellent infrastructure, and a labor pool strongly rooted in the mining industry."
Scientific and technical information contained in this press release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Réjean Girard, Quebec Geologist, P.Geo (OGQ 521) and a "qualified person" under NI 43-101.
About Victory Battery Metals Corp.
Victory Battery Metals CORP. (CSE: VR) is a publicly traded diversified investment corporation with mineral interests in North America. The company is also actively seeking other exploration opportunities.
For further information, please contact:
Mark Ireton, President
Telephone: +1 (236) 317 2822 or TOLL FREE 1 (855) 665-GOLD (4653)
E-mail: info@victorybatterymetals.com
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward Looking Statements
Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.
SOURCE:Victory Battery Metals Corp.
News Provided by ACCESSWIRE via QuoteMedia
Company Overview on La Colorada:
| Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5.0% Discount Rate (US$M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
| 2,000 1 | 54.92 | 25.93 | 11.9 | 2.2 | 1.4 |
| 2,600 2 | 158.32 | 110.03 | 34.7 | 1.4 | 2.3 |
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Company Overview on San Agustin:
| Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5.0% Discount Rate (US$M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
| 2,100 1 | 14.83 | 12.67 | 156.1 | 0.8 | 1.1 |
| 2,600 2 | 28.84 | 25.22 | 365.0 | 0.3 | 2.2 |
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Company Overview on San Antonio:
| Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5% Discount Rate (US$M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
| 1,900 1 | 651.21 | 398.66 | 40.7 | 2.0 | 5.2 |
| 2,600 2 | 1,135.42 | 715.05 | 58.8 | 1.5 | 8.3 |
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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - January 13, 2025) - Heliostar Metals Ltd. (TSXV: HSTR) (OTCQX: HSTXF) (FSE: RGG1) ("Heliostar" or the "Company") advises that it has filed technical reports on the La Colorada Operations, the San Agustin Operations and the San Antonio Project. The technical reports were prepared on material projects acquired in 2024.
The technical reports are available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and on the Company's website (www.heliostarmetals.com).
Heliostar CEO, Charles Funk, commented "Heliostar has filed technical reports for three of its recently acquired Mexican projects. At La Colorada, we have restarted production this month with 2025 focused on the newly defined Junkyard Stockpile and then expanding to over 50,000 ounces of gold per year with the El Crestón expansion. At San Agustin, the Phase 4 Permit area can generate strong cash flow and reduce closure costs. More importantly receiving expansion permits will provide the trigger to restart drilling, targeting further mine life expansion at the mine which has upside oxide and sulphide potential. The PEA at San Antonio demonstrates a rare, 1.0 Au g/t heap leach deposit with low CAPEX, low ASIC and a long mine life. It provides attractive optionality for our long-term growth. The combined projects have positive economics at conservative gold prices and significantly stronger returns at today's gold prices. In 2025, the Company will focus on reducing front-end capital requirements for El Crestón to improve the project economics for the expansion decision and will continue to advance Ana Paula through its Feasibility Study."
LA COLORADA MINE
Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates and a life-of-mine (LOM) plan were completed for the 100% owned La Colorada Operations (La Colorada) located in the state of Sonora, Mexico. The LOM plan in the La Colorada technical report is based on continued production from three sequentially-staged deposits: the Junkyard Stockpile (La Chatarrera), the El Crestón pit expansion (El Crestón), and the Veta Madre pit expansion (Veta Madre). The La Colorada technical report that is the subject of this news release supersedes a technical report that was prepared on the La Colorada Mine by Argonaut Gold Inc., which had an effective date of October 1, 2021.
The La Colorada technical report includes first-time disclosure of a Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimate for the Junkyard and updated Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates for El Crestón and Veta Madre. The LOM plan indicates a Probable Mineral Reserve of 377k ounces of gold exploited with two years of pre-strip and 4.1 years of mine life, from the effective date of the La Colorada technical report, at production rates up to the 13,000 t/d nameplate throughput capacity of the mine at an all-in sustaining capital cost of US$1,763/oz Au.
Key Highlights
| La Colorada - Mineral Reserve & Production Highlights | |
| Mineral Reserves (kt) 1 | 18,159 |
| Gold Grade (g/t Au) | 0.65 |
| Contained Gold (koz Au) | 377 |
| Processing Rate (t/d average) 2 | 8,292 |
| Life of Mine (years) 3 | 4.1 |
| Annual Production (oz Au per year, 2026) | 14,564 |
| Annual Production (oz Au per year, average 2027-2030) | 64,309 |
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| La Colorada - Financial Highlights | |
| Average Cash Costs (US$ per oz AuEq) 1 | 1,549 |
| Average AISC (US$ per oz AuEq) 1 | 1,763 |
| Total Initial Capital Cost (US$M) 2 | 53.9 |
| Total Sustainable Capital Cost (US$M) | 9.8 |
| Total LOM Capital Cost (US$M ) | 63.7 |
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| Â La Colorada Return Estimates based on Gold Price1 | ||
| Â | Â US$2,000/oz 2 | Â US$2,600/oz 3 |
| Â IRR (%) | Â 11.9 | Â 34.7 |
| Â NPV @ 5.0% discount (US$M) | Â 25.9 | Â 110.0 |
| Â NPV @ 7.5% discount (US$M) | Â 15.0 | Â 91.2 |
| Â Payback (years) | Â 2.2 | Â 1.4 |
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La Colorada Mineral Resource Estimates
Mineral Resources were estimated at La Colorada for three deposits: El Crestón, Veta Madre and the Junkyard, and are summarized in the following tables by deposit.
El Crestón Mineral Resource Statement
| Category | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t) | Silver Grade (g/t) | Gold Contained Metal (koz) | Silver Contained Metal (koz) |
| Indicated | 12,393 | 0.91 | 11.94 | 364 | 4,758 |
| Inferred | 202 | 0.70 | 6.07 | 5 | 39 |
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Notes to accompany El Crestón Mineral Resource table:
Veta Madre Mineral Resource Statement
| Category | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t) | Silver Grade (g/t) | Gold Contained Metal (koz) | Silver Contained Metal (koz) |
| Indicated | 2,724 | 0.73 | 3.5 | 64 | 309 |
| Inferred | 77 | 0.53 | 2.5 | 1 | 6 |
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Notes to accompany Veta Madre Mineral Resource table:
La Chatarrera Mineral Resource Statement
| Category | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t) | Silver Grade (g/t) | Gold Contained Metal (koz) | Silver Contained Metal (koz) |
| Indicated | 3,504 | 0.20 | 6.8 | 23 | 763 |
| Inferred | 1,220 | 0.41 | 33.29 | 16 | 1,305 |
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Notes to accompany the Junkyard Stockpile Mineral Resource table:
La Colorada Mineral Reserve Estimates
Mineral Resources were converted to Mineral Reserves for El Crestón, Veta Madre and the Junkyard.
The Mineral Reserve estimate is based on operation of the existing crusher and conveyor system having a nameplate throughput capacity of about 13,000 t/d, and continued operation of the heap leach and carbon-in-circuit (CIC) process circuit and refinery to process ore from the three deposits. The Mineral Reserve estimate is presented in the following table.
Mineral Reserves Statement
| Classification | Zone | AuEq Cut-off (g/t) | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Silver Grade (g/t Ag) | Contained Gold (koz) | Contained Silver (koz) |
| Probable | El Crestón | 0.160 | 12,841 | 0.76 | 10.1 | 312 | 4,181 |
| Veta Madre | 0.175 | 1,905 | 0.70 | 3.1 | 43 | 189 | |
| La Chatarrera | 0.164 | 3,413 | 0.20 | 6.4 | 22 | 704 | |
| Total | 18,159 | 0.65 | 8.69 | 377 | 5,074 |
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Notes to accompany Mineral Reserves table:
The LOM plan outlines sequential exploitation of the three deposits with two years of pre-production from the Junkyard (2025) and from near-surface ore extracted during pre-stripping (2026), before a production LOM of 4.1 years.
Figure 1 - Ore Mined by Pit Phase
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7729/237102_heliostar1.jpg
Note: Figure prepared by Hard Rock Consulting, 2024
La Colorada Operating Cost Estimates
The existing mining and process circuit at the La Colorada Mine remains unchanged for the proposed LOM plan in the La Colorada technical report, with exploitation of the three deposits benefitting from the installed capacity. The expected operating performance and operating cost forecasts were compiled with the benefit of benchmarking historical performance at La Colorada and the input of seasoned professionals knowledgeable of the conventional technologies being used at La Colorada, the expected consumption quantities of key supplies, and commercial pricing for goods and services in Mexico.
Total Operating Cost Summary
| Operating Costs | Operating Cost ($/oz AuEq) | Operating Cost ($/t ore) | Operating Cost ($/t mined) |
| Total mining | 1,038.63 | 17.02 | 2.06 |
| Total processing | 368.21 | 6.04 | |
| Total site general and administrative | 68.40 | 1.12 | |
| Refinery and transport | 26.37 | 0.43 | |
| Cash operating costs | 1,501.61 | 24.61 | |
| Production taxes | 27.14 | 0.44 | |
| Royalties | 20.00 | 0.33 | |
| Total cash costs | 1,548.74 | 25.39 | |
| Capital costs | 214.11 | 3.51 | |
| Total AISC | 1,762.86 | 28.90 |
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La Colorada Capital Cost Estimates
The Junkyard only requires working capital to bring the deposit into production.
The initial capital cost for El Crestón is estimated at US$54.0M, including US$9.0M capital for pad expansion and US$43.4M mining pre-stripping costs until first production. A significant pre-strip is required to fully exploit the El Crestón deposit, comprising both capitalized and expensed pre-stripping costs.
The LOM plan includes US$6.8M for reclamation work at the end of the mine life.
Capital Cost Summary
| Capital Costs | Initial (US$ M) | Sustaining (US$ M) | Total LOM (US$ M) |
| Mine pre-production development | 43.40 | 0.00 | 43.40 |
| Contractor mobilization | 0.21 | 0.00 | 0.21 |
| Slope radar system | 0.00 | 0.50 | 0.50 |
| Leach pad expansion | 8.97 | 2.13 | 11.10 |
| Total direct costs | 52.58 | 2.63 | 55.21 |
| Owner costs and reclamation | 0.00 | 6.80 | 6.80 |
| Indirects and contingency | 1.35 | 0.37 | 1.72 |
| Total indirect costs | 1.35 | 7.17 | 8.52 |
| Total | 53.93 | 9.80 | 63.73 |
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La Colorada Economic Analysis
The financial analysis shows an after-tax net present value at a discount rate of 5% of US$25.9 M, an after-tax internal rate of return of 11.9%, and a payback period of 2.2 years. The forecast total lifespan of the Project is 4.1 years with two years of pre-production, although some metals production is planned in these two years. Approximately 377,000 oz of gold is projected to be mined, with 287,000 oz of gold recovered and produced for sale.
Summary Economic Results
| Project Valuation Overview | Units | After Tax | Before Tax |
| Total cashflow | US$ M | 54.92 | 86.51 |
| NPV @ 5.0% (base case) | US$ M | 25.93 | 49.77 |
| NPV @ 7.5%; | US$ M | 14.99 | 35.82 |
| NPV @ 10.0%; | US$ M | 5.90 | 24.14 |
| Internal rate of return | % | 11.9 | 17.2 |
| Payback period | Years | 2.15 | 2.04 |
| Payback multiple | 1.35 | 1.55 | |
| Total initial capital | US$ M | 53.93 | 53.93 |
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Metal Prices
The La Colorada technical report includes a sensitivity analysis for key parameters impacting the forecast economic returns for La Colorada. The LOM plan and Mineral Reserves estimates are most sensitive to changes in the gold price, and gold grade. Since silver is projected to contribute only about 4% to the revenues. LOM variations in the silver price have limited impact on the cashflow forecast. The LOM plan and Mineral Reserves estimates are less sensitive to operating cost changes, and least sensitive to changes in capital costs.
Gold Price Sensitivity Analysis
| Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$ M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5.0% Discount Rate (US$ M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
| 1,000 | -235.88 | -203.08 | - | 0.0 | 0.0 |
| 1,200 | -167.30 | -149.64 | - | 0.0 | 0.2 |
| 1,400 | -99.10 | -96.46 | -31.1 | 0.0 | 0.5 |
| 1,600 | -30.90 | -43.29 | -7.0 | 0.0 | 0.8 |
| 1,800 | 19.43 | -3.17 | 4.2 | 2.7 | 1.1 |
| 2,000 | 54.92 | 25.93 | 11.9 | 2.2 | 1.4 |
| 2,200 | 89.39 | 53.96 | 19.4 | 1.8 | 1.6 |
| 2,400 | 123.85 | 82.00 | 27.0 | 1.6 | 1.9 |
| 2,600 | 158.32 | 110.03 | 34.7 | 1.4 | 2.3 |
| 2,800 | 192.79 | 137.88 | 42.3 | 1.2 | 2.7 |
| 3,000 | 227.26 | 165.60 | 49.7 | 1.1 | 3.2 |
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Commentary by the Company on Relevant Matters
The results from ongoing drilling and other technical studies being performed at El Crestón are excluded from the La Colorada technical report but will be incorporated into a mineral resource model and will support a Mineral Reserve update that will be published with an updated technical report in mid-2025.
A total initial capital of $53.9M is a required, predominantly from waste stripping prior to the reaching the life-of-mine strip ratio. Further stripping is required after reaching the life-of-mine strip ratio and a maximum negative cash flow of US$139 million is projected at the base assumptions used in the La Colorada technical report (US$117M at US$2,600 gold).
The La Colorada technical report presents cash flows based on the base gold price used. With exploitation of the Junkyard starting this month, the project will generate revenues from sales based on current gold prices which are expected to be higher than the base gold price used in the La Colorada technical report.
The gold market has experienced significant upward price movement in the past few years and, considering that the gold price at the effective date of the La Colorada technical report is about 34% above the base gold price used in the La Colorada technical report. The sensitivity analysis presents gold price scenarios up to US$3,000/oz Au to understand the potential impact. From the base case price of $2,000/oz (years 2026-2031), a change in the average gold price of US$200/oz Au would change the NPV at a 5% discount rate by 108%, or approximately $28.0 M
Commentary by the Company on Next Steps and Permitting
Restart of mining activities at La Colorada has commenced at the Junkyard this month. The Company will provide production and cost guidance for 2025 later in January.
The Company will be continuing the current drill program and conducting other technical programs at El Crestón and plans to complete updated technical study in mid-2025.
The drill program includes shallow infill drilling designed to support short-term mine planning, and a program of infill and expansion drilling deeper in the pit to include in the future update to Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimate.
Some ancillary permitting work is planned at El Crestón and is expected to be completed by mid-2025. A change of land use permit is required to enable exploitation of Veta Madre.
Since the development plan for La Colorada represents a continuation of the historical operations, minimal capital investment is required for new equipment and facilities; however, pre-stripping at El Crestón and Veta Madre will need to be financed. Subject to satisfactory conclusion of the planned work programs and arranging financing, the Company is anticipating making an investment decision at El Crestón in 2H 2025.
Qualified Persons
The technical report for the La Colorado Mine was prepared for Heliostar Metals Inc. by Mr. Todd Wakefield, RM SME, Mr. David Thomas, P.Geo., Mr. Jeffrey Choquette, P.E., Mr. Carl Defilippi, RM SME, and Ms. Dawn Garcia, CPG. Each of these Qualified Persons has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release that was abstracted from the La Colorada technical report in their area of expertise and are independent of the Company.
SAN AGUSTIN MINE
Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates and a LOM plan were completed for the 100% owned San Agustin Operations (San Agustin) located in the state of Durango, Mexico. The LOM plan in the San Agustin technical report is based on an expansion of the existing open pit. The San Agustin technical report that is the subject of this news release supersedes a technical report that was prepared on the San Agustin Mine by Florida Canyon Gold Inc., which had an effective date of June 20, 2024.
The San Agustin technical report includes an updated Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimate. The LOM plan indicates that a Probable Mineral Reserve of 68k ounces of gold can be exploited based on 1.2 years of mine life at an all-in sustaining capital cost of US$1,990/oz Au.
Key Highlights
| San Agustin - Mineral Reserve & Production Highlights | |
| Mineral Reserves (kt) 1 | 7,358 |
| Grade (g/t Au) | 0.29 |
| Contained Gold (koz Au) | 68 |
| Processing Rate (t/d) 2 | 17,100 |
| Life of Mine (years) 3 | 1.2 |
| Annual Production (oz Au per year, average 2026-2027) 4 | 19,091 |
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| San Agustin - Financial Highlights | |
| Average Unit Costs (US$ per oz AuEq) 1 | 1,605 |
| Average AISC (US$ per oz AuEq) 1, 2 | 1,990 |
| Total Initial Capital Cost (US$M) | 4.2 |
| Total Sustainable Capital Cost (US$M) 2 | 14.3 |
| Total LOM Capital Cost (US$M) | 18.5 |
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| San Agustin Return Estimates based on Gold Price 1 | ||
| US$2,100/oz 2 | US$2,600/oz 3 | |
| IRR (%) | 156.1 | 365.0 |
| NPV @ 5.0% discount (US$M) | 12.7 | 25.2 |
| NPV @ 7.5% discount (US$M) | 11.7 | 23.6 |
| Payback (years) | 0.8 | 0.3 |
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San Agustin Mineral Resource Estimates
Mineral Resources were estimated for San Agustin as summarized in the following table.
Mineral Resource Statement
| Material Type | AuEq Cutoff (g/t AuEq) | Confidence Classification | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Silver Grade (g/t Ag) | Contained Gold (koz) | Contained Silver (koz) |
| Oxide | 0.14 | Indicated | 17,154 | 0.30 | 11.5 | 165 | 6,333 |
| Transitional | 0.27 | 700 | 0.44 | 17.4 | 10 | 391 | |
| Sulphide argillic | 0.41 | 5,348 | 0.80 | 14.0 | 138 | 2,403 | |
| Sulphide silicified | 0.60 | 427 | 0.90 | 7.4 | 12 | 102 | |
| Total | 23,629 | 0.43 | 12.2 | 325 | 9,229 | ||
| Oxide | 0.14 | Inferred | 1,273 | 0.29 | 9.2 | 12 | 378 |
| Transitional | 0.27 | 5 | 0.32 | 25.6 | 0 | 4 | |
| Sulphide argillic | 0.41 | 121 | 0.64 | 9.6 | 2 | 38 | |
| Sulphide silicified | 0.60 | 2 | 0.68 | 6.0 | 0 | 0 | |
| Total | 1,401 | 0.32 | 9.4 | 14 | 421 | ||
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Notes to accompany San Agustin Mineral Resource table:
San Agustin Mineral Reserve Estimates
The Mineral Reserve estimate at San Agustin is based on operation of the existing crusher and conveyor system having a nameplate throughput capacity of about 30,000 t/d and continued operation of the heap leach and CIC process circuit to processing ore from the expanded open pit. The Mineral Reserve estimate is presented in the following table.
Mineral Reserve Statement
| Classification | Material Type | AuEq Cut-off (g/t AuEq) | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (Au g/t) | Silver Grade (Ag g/t) | Contained Gold (koz) | Contained Silver (koz) |
| Probable | Oxide | 0.156 | 7,281 | 0.29 | 16.24 | 67 | 3,803 |
| Transition | 0.310 | 77 | 0.39 | 31.39 | 1 | 77 | |
| Total | 7,358 | 0.29 | 16.40 | 68 | 3,880 |
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Notes to accompany Mineral Reserves table:
Figure 2 - Ore Mined by Pit Phase
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7729/237102_212c8174c412ca9e_004full.jpg
Note: Figure prepared by Hard Rock Consulting, 2024
San Agustin Operating Cost Estimates
The existing mining and process circuit at San Agustin remains unchanged for the proposed LOM plan in the San Agustin technical report, with exploitation of the ore from the expanded open pit benefitting from the installed capacity. The expected operating performance and operating cost forecasts were compiled with the benefit of benchmarking historical performance at San Agustin and the input of seasoned professionals knowledgeable of the conventional technologies being used at San Agustin, the expected consumption quantities of key supplies, and commercial pricing for goods and services in Mexico.
Total Operating Cost Summary
| Operating Costs | Operating Cost (US$/oz AuEq) | Operating Cost (US$/t ore) | Operating Cost (US$/t mined) |
| Total mining | 681.41 | 4.44 | 2.36 |
| Total processing | 699.96 | 4.56 | |
| Total site general and administrative | 123.57 | 0.80 | |
| Refinery and transport | 38.47 | 0.25 | |
| Cash operating costs | 1,543.41 | 10.05 | |
| Production taxes | 40.10 | 0.26 | |
| Royalties | 21.00 | 0.14 | |
| Total cash costs | 1,604.51 | 10.45 | |
| Capital costs | 385.59 | 2.51 | |
| Total AISC | 1,990.09 | 12.96 |
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San Agustin Capital Cost Estimates
The initial capital cost is estimated at US$4.2M, including US$2.7M capital for Owner's costs and US$0.6M for an in-fill drill program.
The LOM plan includes US$13.6M for reclamation work at the end of the mine life.
Capital Cost Summary
| Capital Costs | Initial (US$ M) | Sustaining (US$ M) | Total LOM (US$ M) |
| Definition drilling Phase 4 Pit | 0.60 | 0.00 | 0.60 |
| Mine contractor mobilization and demobilization | 0.15 | 0.05 | 0.20 |
| Leach pad expansion | 0.00 | 0.61 | 0.61 |
| Total direct costs | 0.75 | 0.66 | 1.41 |
| Owner Costs and reclamation | 3.40 | 13.57 | 16.97 |
| Indirects and contingency | 0.00 | 0.09 | 0.09 |
| Total indirect costs | 3.40 | 13.67 | 17.07 |
| Total | 4.15 | 14.33 | 18.48 |
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San Agustin Economic Analysis
The financial analysis in the San Agustin technical report shows an after-tax net present value at a discount rate of 5% of US$12.7 million, an after-tax internal rate of return of 156%, and a payback period of 0.8 years. The forecast total lifespan of the Project is 1.2 years with 0.8 years of residual leaching. Approximately 67,800 oz of gold is projected to be mined, with 44,500 oz of gold recovered and produced for sale.
Summary Economic Results
| Project Valuation Overview | Units | After Tax | Before Tax |
| Total cashflow | US$ M | 14.83 | 19.69 |
| NPV @ 5.0% (base case) | US$ M | 12.67 | 19.46 |
| NPV @ 7.5% | US$ M | 11.74 | 18.10 |
| NPV @ 10.0% | US$ M | 10.88 | 16.86 |
| Internal rate of return | % | 156.1 | 218.9 |
| Payback period | Years | 0.79 | 0.59 |
| Payback multiple | 1.09 | 1.66 | |
| Total initial capital | US$ M | 4.15 | 4.15 |
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Metal Prices
The San Agustin technical report includes a sensitivity analysis for key parameters impacting the forecast economic returns for San Agustin. The LOM plan and Mineral Reserves estimates are most sensitive to gold price and gold grade. Since silver is projected to contribute only about 9% to the San Agustin revenues, variations in the silver price have a small impact on the cashflow forecast. The LOM plan and Mineral Reserves estimates are less sensitive to operating cost changes, and least sensitive to changes in capital costs.
Gold Price Sensitivity Analysis
| Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$ M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5% (US$ M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
| 1,000 | -34.64 | -31.50 | - | - | - |
| 1,200 | -24.16 | -22.18 | - | - | - |
| 1,400 | -13.69 | -12.86 | - | - | - |
| 1,600 | -3.22 | -3.53 | -19.6 | - | - |
| 1,800 | 4.75 | 3.62 | 38.2 | 1.6 | 0.4 |
| 2,000 | 12.03 | 10.16 | 119.8 | 1.1 | 0.9 |
| 2,100 | 14.83 | 12.67 | 156.1 | 0.8 | 1.1 |
| 2,200 | 17.63 | 15.18 | 194.8 | 0.6 | 1.3 |
| 2,400 | 23.23 | 20.20 | 277.4 | 0.4 | 1.8 |
| 2,600 | 28.84 | 25.22 | 365.0 | 0.3 | 2.2 |
| 2,800 | 34.44 | 30.23 | 455.6 | 0.2 | 2.7 |
| 3,000 | 40.05 | 35.25 | 548.3 | 0.2 | 3.2 |
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Commentary by the Company on Relevant Matters
The San Agustin technical report presents cash flows based on the base gold price used. With exploitation of the Mineral Reserve as presented in the San Agustin technical report, the project will generate revenues from sales which may be higher than the base gold price used in the San Agustin technical report.
The gold market has experienced significant upward price movement in the past few years and, considering the gold price at the effective date of the San Agustin technical report is about 34% above the base gold price used in the San Agustin technical report. The sensitivity analysis presents gold price scenarios up to US$3,000 per ounce to understand the potential impact. From the base case price of $2,100/oz, a 10% change in the average gold price (or US$210/oz Au) would change the NPV at a 5% discount rate by 42%, or approximately $5.3 M.
Commentary by the Company on Next Steps and Permitting
Although mining activities at San Agustin ceased in August 2024, the Company is continuing re-leaching activities. The Company will provide production and cost guidance for 2025 later in January.
A change of land use permit is required to enable exploitation of the Mineral Reserve at San Agustin. Subject to obtaining the permit, the Company plans to conduct a small, in-fill drill program to provide geotechnical information and support short-term mine planning, and to complete other preparation work needed to restart the mining activities. These activities are expected to require 4-6 months to complete from permit approval.
Qualified Persons
The technical report for the San Agustin Mine was prepared for Heliostar Metals Inc. by Mr. Todd Wakefield, RM SME, Mr. David Thomas, P.Geo., Mr. Jeffrey Choquette, P.E., Mr. Carl Defilippi, RM SME, and Ms. Dawn Garcia, CPG. Each of these Qualified Persons has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release that was abstracted from the San Agustin technical report in their area of expertise and are independent of the Company.
SAN ANTONIO PRELIMINARY ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT
A Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) based on Mineral Resource estimates was completed for the 100% owned San Antonio Project (San Antonio Project technical report) located in the state of Baja California Sur, Mexico. The study considers construction and operation of a greenfield open pit and heap leach-CIC mine operation. The San Antonio Project technical report that is the subject of this news release supersedes a technical report that was prepared on the San Antonio Project by Argonaut Gold Inc., which had an effective date of 1 September, 2012.
The PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves, and there is no certainty that the preliminary economic assessment will be realized.
Key Highlights
| San Antonio PEA - Resource & Production Highlights | |
| Mineral Resource within PEA mine plan | |
| Indicated Mineral Resources (kt) | 49,410 |
| Grade (g/t Au) | 1.00 |
| Contained Gold (koz Au) | 1,590 |
| Inferred Mineral Resources (kt) | 5,397 |
| Grade (g/t Au) | 0.47 |
| Contained Gold (koz Au) | 82 |
| Processing Rate (t/d) | 10,960 |
| Life of Mine (years) | 13.7 |
| Average recovery rate (% Au) | 65.8 |
| Annual Production (oz Au per year, average) | 80,268 |
| Life of Mine Production (Moz Au) | 1.10 |
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| Â San Antonio PEA - Financial Highlights | |
| Â Average Unit Cash Costs (US$ per oz Au)1 | Â 898 |
| Â Average AISC (US$ per oz Au)1 | Â 1,063 |
| Â Total Initial Capital Cost (US$M) | Â 131.3 |
| Â Total Sustainable Capital Cost (US$M) | Â 48.6 |
| Â Total LOM Capital Cost (US$M) | Â 179.9 |
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| San Antonio Return Estimates based on Gold Price 1 | ||
| US$1,900/oz 2 | US$2,600/oz 3 | |
| IRR (%) | 40.7 | 58.8 |
| NPV @ 5.0% discount (US$M) | 398.7 | 715.1 |
| NPV @ 7.5% discount (US$M) | 315.1 | 575.9 |
| Payback (years) | 2.0 | 1.5 |
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San Antonio Mineral Resource Estimates
Mineral Resources were estimated for San Antonio Project as summarized in the following table.
Mineral Resource Statement
| Confidence Classification | Area | Oxidation State | Cut-off Grade (g/t Au) | Tonnage (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Contained Metal (koz Au) |
| Indicated | Los Planes | Oxide and transition | 0.095 | 15,839 | 0.91 | 461.2 |
| Sulphide | 0.156 | 26,607 | 1.10 | 943.7 | ||
| Intermediate | Oxide, transition, and sulphide | 0.150 | 5,239 | 0.87 | 146.3 | |
| Las Colinas | Oxide and transition | 0.184 | 1,430 | 0.69 | 31.9 | |
| Sulphide | 0.199 | 6,407 | 0.77 | 158.1 | ||
| Total | Oxide, transition, and sulphide | 0.095-1.99 | 55,522 | 0.98 | 1,741.3 | |
| Inferred | Los Planes | Oxide and transition | 0.095 | 5,479 | 0.34 | 59.1 |
| Sulphide | 0.156 | 1,319 | 0.71 | 30.2 | ||
| Intermediate | Alluvium, oxide, transition, and sulphide | 0.150 | 660 | 0.43 | 9.2 | |
| Las Colinas | Alluvium, oxide, and transition | 0.184 | 689 | 0.49 | 10.9 | |
| Sulphide | 0.199 | 579 | 0.59 | 11.0 | ||
| La Colpa | Alluvium, oxide, and transition | 0.120 | 4,635 | 0.29 | 43.9 | |
| Sulphide | 0.194 | 1,597 | 0.39 | 19.9 | ||
| Total | Alluvium, oxide, transition, and sulphide | 0.095-1.99 | 14,957 | 0.38 | 184.4 |
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Notes to Accompany Mineral Resource Table:
San Antonio Mineral Resources Scheduled Within PEA Mine Plan
A mine plan was prepared based on an open pit and heap leach-CIC mine operation, with mineralized material processed sequentially and concurrently from three distinct mineral zones within the San Antonio deposit.
Mineral Resource Scheduled Within PEA Mine Plan
| Material Type | Indicated | Inferred | ||||
| Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Contained Gold (koz Au) | Tonnes (kt) | Gold Grade (g/t Au) | Contained Gold (koz Au) | |
| Los Planes; oxide, mixed | 15,566 | 0.92 | 458.0 | 3,569 | 0.40 | 46.3 |
| Los Planes; sulphide | 25,276 | 1.13 | 918.9 | 968 | 0.76 | 23.7 |
| Intermediate; oxide, mixed | 478 | 0.58 | 8.9 | 204 | 0.40 | 2.6 |
| Intermediate; sulphide | 3,242 | 0.88 | 91.3 | 120 | 0.44 | 1.7 |
| Las Colinas; oxide, mixed | 1,275 | 0.69 | 28.3 | 313 | 0.42 | 4.2 |
| Las Colinas; sulphide | 3,574 | 0.74 | 84.8 | 223 | 0.42 | 3.0 |
| Total | 49,410 | 1.00 | 1,590.2 | 5,397 | 0.47 | 81.6 |
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Figure 3 - Mineralization Mined by Pit Phase
To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/7729/237102_212c8174c412ca9e_005full.jpg
San Antonio Operating Cost Estimates
The operating costs in the San Antonio Project technical report were estimated for mining, processing, and general administration activities for an open pit and heap leach-CIC mine operation.
Total Operating Cost Estimate
| Operating Costs | Operating Cost (US$/oz Au) | Operating Cost (US$/t mineralized material) | Operating Cost (US$/t mined) |
| Total mining | 522.78 | 10.40 | 2.06 |
| Total processing | 204.24 | 4.06 | |
| Total site general and administrative | 59.26 | 1.18 | |
| Refinery and transport | 16.85 | 0.34 | |
| Cash operating costs | 803.13 | 15.97 | |
| Production taxes | 76.22 | 1.52 | |
| Royalties | 19.00 | 0.38 | |
| Total cash costs | 898.34 | 17.87 | |
| Capital costs | 165.04 | 3.28 | |
| Total AISC | 1,063.39 | 21.15 |
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San Antonio Capital Cost Estimates
The initial capital cost including contingency was estimated at US$131.8M, with a 2-year pre-production phase for construction of the greenfield mine.
Total LOM Capital Costs
| LOM Capital Costs | Initial (US$M) | Sustaining (US$M) | Total LOM (US$M) |
| Mine area | 4.36 | 5.00 | 9.36 |
| General and administrative infrastructure | 72.26 | 20.50 | 92.76 |
| Processing | 12.81 | 0.00 | 12.81 |
| Total direct costs | 89.43 | 25.50 | 114.93 |
| Owner costs and reclamation | 5.00 | 17.31 | 22.31 |
| Project indirect costs | 16.51 | 0.00 | 16.51 |
| Contingency | 20.35 | 5.80 | 26.16 |
| Total indirect costs | 41.86 | 23.11 | 64.97 |
| Total | 131.28 | 48.62 | 179.90 |
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San Antonio Economic Analysis
The financial analysis in the San Antonio Project technical report shows an after-tax net present value at a discount rate of 5% of US$399M, an after-tax internal rate of return of 40.7%, and a payback period of 2.1 years. The forecast total lifespan is 14 years. Approximately 1.67 M ounces of gold is projected to be mined, with 1.10 M ounces of gold forecast to be recovered and produced for sale.
Summary Economic Results
| Project Valuation Overview | Units | After Tax | Before Tax |
| Total cashflow | US$ M | 651.21 | 1,013.36 |
| NPV @ 5.0% (base case) | US$ M | 398.66 | 635.33 |
| NPV @ 7.5% | US$ M | 315.09 | 509.96 |
| NPV @ 10.0% | US$ M | 250.14 | 412.36 |
| Internal rate of return | % | 40.7 | 53.7 |
| Payback period | Years | 2.05 | 1.71 |
| Payback multiple | 5.24 | 7.65 | |
| Total initial capital | US$ M | 138.59 | 138.59 |
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Metal Prices
The San Antonio Project technical report includes a sensitivity analysis for key parameters impacting the cashflow forecast. The PEA LOM plan that is based on Mineral Resources is most sensitive to gold price and gold grade. It is less sensitive to operating cost changes, and least sensitive to changes in capital costs.
Gold Price Sensitivity Analysis
| Au Price (US$/oz Au) | Net Cash Flow (US$ M) | After-Tax NPV @ 5% (US$ M) | IRR (%) | Payback Period (years) | Payback Multiple |
| 1,000 | 11.34 | -20.14 | 1.5 | 5.3 | 1.1 |
| 1,200 | 162.93 | 78.70 | 15.0 | 3.5 | 2.0 |
| 1,400 | 303.75 | 171.10 | 23.8 | 2.8 | 3.0 |
| 1,600 | 443.11 | 262.51 | 31.2 | 2.4 | 3.9 |
| 1,800 | 582.04 | 353.46 | 37.7 | 2.2 | 4.8 |
| 1,900 | 651.21 | 398.66 | 40.7 | 2.0 | 5.2 |
| 2,000 | 720.38 | 443.86 | 43.5 | 2.0 | 5.7 |
| 2,200 | 858.73 | 534.26 | 49.0 | 1.8 | 6.6 |
| 2,400 | 997.07 | 624.66 | 54.0 | 1.7 | 7.5 |
| 2,600 | 1,135.42 | 715.05 | 58.8 | 1.5 | 8.3 |
| 2,800 | 1,273.76 | 805.45 | 63.4 | 1.5 | 9.2 |
| 3,000 | 1,412.10 | 895.85 | 67.8 | 1.4 | 10.1 |
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Commentary by the Company on Relevant Matters
The gold market has experienced significant upward price movement in the past few years and considering gold price at the effective date of the San Antonio technical report is about 41% above the base gold price used in the San Agustin Project technical report. The sensitivity analysis presents gold price scenarios up to US$3,000 per ounce to understand the potential impact. From the base case price of US$1,900/oz Au, a change in the average gold price of US$200/oz Au would change the NPV at a 5% discount rate by 22.7%, or approximately $90.4 M.
Commentary by the Company on Next Steps and Permitting
The Project requires further development planning and engineering. All major environmental and other permits will need to be obtained before an investment decision can be considered by Heliostar.
Based on the results from the San Antonio Project technical report, the Company will conduct a strategic Project review with the objective of identifying and evaluating the next development steps and challenges. The Company will also consider additional work programs and alternative business possibilities to potentially add Project value to the San Antonio Project as presented in the PEA. This strategic review is expected to require 3-4 months to complete.
Qualified Persons
The technical report for the San Antonio Project was prepared for Heliostar Metals Inc. by Mr. Todd Wakefield, RM SME, Mr. Richard Schwering RM SME, Mr. Jeffrey Choquette, P.E., Mr. Carl Defilippi, RM SME, and Ms. Dawn Garcia, CPG. Each of these Qualified Persons has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release that was abstracted from the San Antonio Project technical report in their area of expertise and are independent of the Company.
With respect to this News Release:
Qualified Persons for News Release
Sam Anderson, CPG, Gregg Bush, P.Eng. and Mike Gingles, MBA, the Company's Qualified Persons, as such term is defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, have reviewed the scientific and technical information not derived from the technical reports and included in this news release in the Company Overview, Commentary by the Company on Relevant Matters and Commentary by the Company on Next Steps and Permitting sections for each property and have approved the disclosure herein.
Data Verification
In addition, the Qualified Persons for each of the technical reports verified the data in the reports in their areas of expertise, and concluded that the information supported Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimation, and could be used in mine planning and economic analysis. The verification completed by each Qualified Person is discussed in each technical report and included site visits, and could include data audits, suitability of data for use in estimation and mine planning, quality assurance and quality control checks, review of available technical and economic study data, review of data collection and evaluation methods, review of production data including reconciliation where available, review of actual cost data for operations, and review of third-party inputs to forecasts.
The Company's Qualified persons verified the information that was not derived from the technical reports. The data verification included site visits, data audits, review of available study data, review of data collection and evaluation methods, review of production data including reconciliation where available, review of actual cost data for operations, and review of third-party inputs to forecasts, and consideration of the Company's plans for the projects.
About Heliostar Metals Ltd.
Heliostar aims to grow to become a mid-tier gold producer. The Company is focused on increasing production and developing new resources at the recently acquired La Colorada and San Agustin mines in Mexico, and on developing the 100% owned Ana Paula Project in Guerrero, Mexico.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Charles Funk
President and Chief Executive Officer
Heliostar Metals Limited
Email: charles.funk@heliostarmetals.com
Phone: +1 844-753-0045
Rob Grey
Investor Relations Manager
Heliostar Metals Limited
Email: rob.grey@heliostarmetals.com
Phone: +1 844-753-0045
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information
This news release includes certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target", "plan", "forecast", "may", "would", "could", "schedule" and similar words or expressions, identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information relate to, among other things, El Crestón expansion at La Colorada is expected to produce over 50,000 ounces of gold per year, Current drill program (five drill rigs) is targeting lower CAPEX and increased production for an updated technical report planned for mid-2025, Receiving the Corner Permit allow for strong cash flow generation from San Agustin including funding San Agustin rehabilitation costs, Upon receipt of permit, expected in 2025, the Company will undertake drilling to potentially extend mine life from oxide gold production and is reviewing the projects sulphide potential, Mineral resource of 1.6 million ounces of gold at San Antonio project creates attractive optionality with high grade, low CAPEX, sub-US$1,100/oz ASIC and long mine life, the combined projects have positive economics at conservative gold prices and significantly stronger returns at today's gold prices and In 2025, the Company will focus on reducing front-end capital requirements for El Crestón to improve the project economics for the expansion decision and will continue to advance Ana Paula through its Feasibility Study.
Forward-looking statements and forward-looking information relating to the terms and completion of the Facility, any future mineral production, liquidity, and future exploration plans are based on management's reasonable assumptions, estimates, expectations, analyses and opinions, which are based on management's experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the receipt of necessary approvals, price of metals; no escalation in the severity of public health crises or ongoing military conflicts; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; and the Company's ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms.
These statements reflect the Company's respective current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of other assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by management, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: precious metals price volatility; risks associated with the conduct of the Company's mining activities in foreign jurisdictions; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company's management team and outside contractors; risks regarding exploration and mining activities; the Company's inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; the ability of the communities in which the Company operates to manage and cope with the implications of public health crises; the economic and financial implications of public health crises, ongoing military conflicts and general economic factors to the Company; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company's interactions with surrounding communities; the Company's ability to successfully integrate acquired assets; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; lack of liquidity for shareholders of the Company; litigation risk; and the factors identified under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's public disclosure documents. Readers are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements or information, other than as required by applicable law.
This news release includes certain non-International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) measures. The Company has included these measures, in addition to conventional measures conforming with IFRS, to provide investors with an improved ability to evaluate the project and provide comparability between projects. The non-IFRS measures, which are generally considered standard measures within the mining industry albeit with non-standard definitions, are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. Cash costs (Cash Costs) are a common financial performance measure in the gold mining industry but with no standard meaning under IFRS. The Company believes that, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, certain investors use this information to evaluate each project's economic results in the technical reports and each project's potential to generate operating earnings and cash flow. All-in Sustaining Costs (AISC) more fully defines the total costs associated with producing precious metals. The AISC is calculated based on guidelines published by the World Gold Council (WGC), which were first issued in 2013. In light of new accounting standards and to support further consistency of application, the WGC published an updated Guidance Note in 2018. Other companies may calculate this measure differently because of differences in underlying principles and policies applied. Differences may also arise due to a different definition of sustaining versus growth capital. Note that in respect of AISC metrics within the technical reports because such economics are disclosed at the project level, corporate general and administrative expenses were not included in the AISC calculations.
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/237102
News Provided by Newsfile via QuoteMedia
B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) ("B2Gold" or the "Company") announces amendments to its shareholder returns strategy to increase financial flexibility as it completes its current phase of organic growth, including the anticipated commencement of initial production from Fekola Regional in Mali, the completion of construction of the Goose Mine in Nunavut, Canada, the development of the Antelope deposit at the Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, and de-risking activities at the Gramalote Project in Colombia. All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.
New Dividend Framework
Management and the Board of Directors (the "Board") of B2Gold have completed a comprehensive review of its existing dividend level and approved a change in its intended quarterly dividend rate from $0.04 per common share ($0.16 per common share on an annualized basis) to $0.02 per common share ($0.08 per common share on an annualized basis).
Since payment of its inaugural dividend in 2020, B2Gold has paid a sector-leading dividend, principally funded through the strong free cash flow generation from its three existing operating mines. Upon acquiring Sabina Gold & Silver Corp. in April 2023 (and the associated increase in B2Gold shares outstanding), the Company continued its quarterly dividend at the same $0.04 per common share level while investing significantly in organic production growth opportunities, primarily advancing construction of the Goose Mine and developing the infrastructure for Fekola Regional. In total, B2Gold has paid approximately $870 million in dividends to shareholders since 2020.
Based on the Company's funding requirements, including completing construction of the Goose Mine (which remains on schedule and on budget to the current timeline and total construction cost estimate as outlined in B2Gold's September 12, 2024 news release), advancing development of the Antelope deposit at the Otjikoto Mine, de-risking activities at the Gramalote Project in Colombia, combined with the upcoming delivery of approximately 265,000 gold ounces from July 2025 to June 2026 to satisfy its gold prepayment arrangement entered into in January 2024, the Company determined that modifying the quarterly dividend level to $0.02 per common share is commensurate to the current growth phase of the Company and provides additional financial flexibility to advance and complete its organic growth opportunities, while still providing shareholders with a sustainable dividend moving forward.
Returning capital to shareholders remains a foundational element of B2Gold's capital allocation philosophy. Under the amended dividend framework, the pro forma dividend yield as of December 31, 2024, would be 3.3%, remaining one of the highest dividend yields amongst the global precious metal producers.
Clive Johnson, President and Chief Executive Officer of B2Gold stated, "Since inception of our first common share dividend in 2020, B2Gold has paid approximately $870 million in dividends to shareholders, reflecting the strong free cash flow generation of our portfolio of operating assets over the past four years. As we enter an organic production growth phase, starting shortly with the anticipated commencement of gold production from both Fekola Regional and the Goose Mine, it is important to maintain our strong financial position as well as flexibility for internal growth projects moving forward. In conjunction with the revised dividend framework, we are announcing the intent to implement a normal course issuer bid, which will allow the Company to have increased flexibility with respect to returning capital to shareholders, as well as take advantage of periods of time when the market value of our shares do not properly reflect the underlying value of our business."
The declaration and payment of future dividends and the amount of any such dividends will be subject to the determination of the Board, in its sole and absolute discretion, taking into account, among other things, economic conditions, business performance, financial condition, growth plans, expected capital requirements, compliance with B2Gold's constating documents, all applicable laws, including the rules and policies of any applicable stock exchange, as well as any contractual restrictions on such dividends, including any agreements entered into with lenders to the Company, and any other factors that the Board deems appropriate at the relevant time. There can be no assurance that any dividends will be paid at the revised intended rate or at all in the future.
Intention to Implement Normal Course Issuer Bid
B2Gold intends to implement a normal course issuer bid (the "NCIB") to purchase, on the open market through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX"), NYSE American ("NYSE American"), other designated exchanges and/or alternative Canadian and U.S. trading systems or by such other means as may be permitted by applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws, up to 5% of the outstanding common shares of the Company ("Shares"), subject to the approval of the TSX. As at January 13, 2025, the Company had 1,318,040,605 Shares outstanding. The Company intends to file a notice of intention with the TSX in this regard.
Subject to the approval of the TSX, it is expected that the NCIB will begin later in the first quarter of 2025 and will end at the latest 12 months from the date of the implementation of the NCIB. Purchases made on the open market through the facilities of the TSX, the NYSE American and alternative trading systems will be made at the prevailing market price at the time of purchase, or such other price as may be permitted by the TSX and applicable U.S. securities laws. The Company may also purchase Shares pursuant to exemption orders from applicable securities regulatory authorities, and such purchases will be at a discount to the prevailing market price. The Shares purchased by B2Gold under the NCIB will be cancelled. The Company will only make purchases under the NCIB once all regulatory approvals are obtained.
The Company will retain discretion whether to make purchases under the NCIB, and to determine the timing, amount and acceptable price of any such purchases, subject at all times to applicable TSX, NYSE American and other regulatory requirements. However, the Company may enter into a pre-defined plan (a "Purchase Plan") on occasion with its broker to allow for the repurchase of Shares at times when the Company ordinarily would not be active in the market due to its pre-scheduled blackout periods. Such form of a Purchase Plan will be adopted in accordance with Canadian and U.S. securities laws and is subject to the approval of the TSX.
The Company's decision to approve the NCIB is consistent with its amended shareholder return strategy outlined in detail above, and reflective of the Company's belief that the market may undervalue the Shares of B2Gold from time to time and that the Shares may trade in a price range which may not adequately reflect the value of the Shares in relation to the business, assets, and prospects of B2Gold from time to time and that purchases of Shares pursuant to the NCIB may represent an appropriate and desirable use of the Company's capital.
The Company intends to announce when the NCIB has been approved by the TSX with additional details regarding the time frame allowed for the NCIB and details around the number of Shares available for the Company to purchase under the NCIB, in the aggregate and per trading day.
About B2Gold
B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Founded in 2007, today, B2Gold has operating gold mines in Mali, Namibia and the Philippines, the Goose Project under construction in northern Canada and numerous development and exploration projects in various countries including Mali, Colombia and Finland. B2Gold forecasts total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025.
ON BEHALF OF B2GOLD CORP.
"Clive T. Johnson"
President and Chief Executive Officer
Source: B2Gold Corp.
The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release.
Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 14, 2024 for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates.
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining) and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets on a consolidated and mine by mine basis; future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, gold recovery rates, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: remaining well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance in 2025; total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025; and certain statements related to the Company's intention to implement the NCIB, and the proposed terms thereof. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.
Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility and other studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines and Colombia and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; risks affecting Calibre having an impact on the value of the Company's investment in Calibre, and potential dilution of our equity interest in Calibre; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
For more information on B2Gold please visit the Company website at www.b2gold.com or contact: Michael McDonald VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Development +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com Cherry DeGeer Director, Corporate Communications +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) ("B2Gold" or the "Company") announces amendments to its shareholder returns strategy to increase financial flexibility as it completes its current phase of organic growth, including the anticipated commencement of initial production from Fekola Regional in Mali, the completion of construction of the Goose Mine in Nunavut, Canada, the development of the Antelope deposit at the Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, and de-risking activities at the Gramalote Project in Colombia. All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.
New Dividend Framework
Management and the Board of Directors (the "Board") of B2Gold have completed a comprehensive review of its existing dividend level and approved a change in its intended quarterly dividend rate from $0.04 per common share ($0.16 per common share on an annualized basis) to $0.02 per common share ($0.08 per common share on an annualized basis).
Since payment of its inaugural dividend in 2020, B2Gold has paid a sector-leading dividend, principally funded through the strong free cash flow generation from its three existing operating mines. Upon acquiring Sabina Gold & Silver Corp. in April 2023 (and the associated increase in B2Gold shares outstanding), the Company continued its quarterly dividend at the same $0.04 per common share level while investing significantly in organic production growth opportunities, primarily advancing construction of the Goose Mine and developing the infrastructure for Fekola Regional. In total, B2Gold has paid approximately $870 million in dividends to shareholders since 2020.
Based on the Company's funding requirements, including completing construction of the Goose Mine (which remains on schedule and on budget to the current timeline and total construction cost estimate as outlined in B2Gold's September 12, 2024 news release), advancing development of the Antelope deposit at the Otjikoto Mine, de-risking activities at the Gramalote Project in Colombia, combined with the upcoming delivery of approximately 265,000 gold ounces from July 2025 to June 2026 to satisfy its gold prepayment arrangement entered into in January 2024, the Company determined that modifying the quarterly dividend level to $0.02 per common share is commensurate to the current growth phase of the Company and provides additional financial flexibility to advance and complete its organic growth opportunities, while still providing shareholders with a sustainable dividend moving forward.
Returning capital to shareholders remains a foundational element of B2Gold's capital allocation philosophy. Under the amended dividend framework, the pro forma dividend yield as of December 31, 2024, would be 3.3%, remaining one of the highest dividend yields amongst the global precious metal producers.
Clive Johnson, President and Chief Executive Officer of B2Gold stated, "Since inception of our first common share dividend in 2020, B2Gold has paid approximately $870 million in dividends to shareholders, reflecting the strong free cash flow generation of our portfolio of operating assets over the past four years. As we enter an organic production growth phase, starting shortly with the anticipated commencement of gold production from both Fekola Regional and the Goose Mine, it is important to maintain our strong financial position as well as flexibility for internal growth projects moving forward. In conjunction with the revised dividend framework, we are announcing the intent to implement a normal course issuer bid, which will allow the Company to have increased flexibility with respect to returning capital to shareholders, as well as take advantage of periods of time when the market value of our shares do not properly reflect the underlying value of our business."
The declaration and payment of future dividends and the amount of any such dividends will be subject to the determination of the Board, in its sole and absolute discretion, taking into account, among other things, economic conditions, business performance, financial condition, growth plans, expected capital requirements, compliance with B2Gold's constating documents, all applicable laws, including the rules and policies of any applicable stock exchange, as well as any contractual restrictions on such dividends, including any agreements entered into with lenders to the Company, and any other factors that the Board deems appropriate at the relevant time. There can be no assurance that any dividends will be paid at the revised intended rate or at all in the future.
Intention to Implement Normal Course Issuer Bid
B2Gold intends to implement a normal course issuer bid (the "NCIB") to purchase, on the open market through the facilities of the Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX"), NYSE American ("NYSE American"), other designated exchanges and/or alternative Canadian and U.S. trading systems or by such other means as may be permitted by applicable Canadian and U.S. securities laws, up to 5% of the outstanding common shares of the Company ("Shares"), subject to the approval of the TSX. As at January 13, 2025, the Company had 1,318,040,605 Shares outstanding. The Company intends to file a notice of intention with the TSX in this regard.
Subject to the approval of the TSX, it is expected that the NCIB will begin later in the first quarter of 2025 and will end at the latest 12 months from the date of the implementation of the NCIB. Purchases made on the open market through the facilities of the TSX, the NYSE American and alternative trading systems will be made at the prevailing market price at the time of purchase, or such other price as may be permitted by the TSX and applicable U.S. securities laws. The Company may also purchase Shares pursuant to exemption orders from applicable securities regulatory authorities, and such purchases will be at a discount to the prevailing market price. The Shares purchased by B2Gold under the NCIB will be cancelled. The Company will only make purchases under the NCIB once all regulatory approvals are obtained.
The Company will retain discretion whether to make purchases under the NCIB, and to determine the timing, amount and acceptable price of any such purchases, subject at all times to applicable TSX, NYSE American and other regulatory requirements. However, the Company may enter into a pre-defined plan (a "Purchase Plan") on occasion with its broker to allow for the repurchase of Shares at times when the Company ordinarily would not be active in the market due to its pre-scheduled blackout periods. Such form of a Purchase Plan will be adopted in accordance with Canadian and U.S. securities laws and is subject to the approval of the TSX.
The Company's decision to approve the NCIB is consistent with its amended shareholder return strategy outlined in detail above, and reflective of the Company's belief that the market may undervalue the Shares of B2Gold from time to time and that the Shares may trade in a price range which may not adequately reflect the value of the Shares in relation to the business, assets, and prospects of B2Gold from time to time and that purchases of Shares pursuant to the NCIB may represent an appropriate and desirable use of the Company's capital.
The Company intends to announce when the NCIB has been approved by the TSX with additional details regarding the time frame allowed for the NCIB and details around the number of Shares available for the Company to purchase under the NCIB, in the aggregate and per trading day.
About B2Gold
B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Founded in 2007, today, B2Gold has operating gold mines in Mali, Namibia and the Philippines, the Goose Project under construction in northern Canada and numerous development and exploration projects in various countries including Mali, Colombia and Finland. B2Gold forecasts total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025.
ON BEHALF OF B2GOLD CORP.
"Clive T. Johnson"
President and Chief Executive Officer
Source: B2Gold Corp.
The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release.
Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 14, 2024 for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates.
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining) and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets on a consolidated and mine by mine basis; future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, gold recovery rates, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: remaining well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance in 2025; total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025; and certain statements related to the Company's intention to implement the NCIB, and the proposed terms thereof. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.
Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility and other studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines and Colombia and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; risks affecting Calibre having an impact on the value of the Company's investment in Calibre, and potential dilution of our equity interest in Calibre; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
For more information on B2Gold please visit the Company website at www.b2gold.com or contact: Michael McDonald VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Development +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com Cherry DeGeer Director, Corporate Communications +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com
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B2Gold Corp. (TSX: BTO, NYSE AMERICAN: BTG, NSX: B2G) ("B2Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to announce its gold production and revenue results for the fourth quarter and full year 2024, as well as its 2025 total gold production guidance and 2025 cost guidance for its current operating mines. All dollar figures are in United States dollars unless otherwise indicated.
Q4 and Full Year 2024 Highlights
2025 Guidance Highlights
Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Gold Production
Mine-by-mine production in the fourth quarter and full year 2024 was as follows:
| Gold Production (ounces) | |||
| Mine | Q4 2024 | FY 2024 | FY 2024 Revised Guidance |
| Fekola | 84,015 | 392,946 | 420,000 - 450,000 |
| Masbate | 49,534 | 194,046 | 175,000 - 195,000 |
| Otjikoto | 52,452 | 198,142 | 185,000 - 205,000 |
| Equity interest in Calibre ( 1 ) | - | 19,644 | 20,000 |
| Total | 186,001 | 804,778 | 800,000 – 870,000 |
(1 ) Subsequent to June 20, 2024, B2Gold no longer recorded attributable production for Calibre.
Fekola Mine – Mali
| Q4 2024 | |
| Tonnes of ore milled | 2,442,390 |
| Grade (grams/tonne) | 1.17 |
| Recovery (%) | 91.9 |
| Gold production (ounces) | 84,015 |
| Gold sold (ounces) | 86,453 |
The Fekola Mine in Mali (owned 80% by the Company and 20% by the State of Mali) produced 84,015 ounces in the fourth quarter, lower than anticipated largely due to delays experienced in accessing higher-grade ore in Fekola Phase 7, a result of lower realized mine production from the Fekola Phase 7 and Cardinal pits during the period. Damage to an excavator and the subsequent need for replacement equipment impacted equipment availability for the first nine months of 2024, reducing tonnes mined, which continued to affect the availability of higher-grade ore of Fekola Phase 7 during the fourth quarter of 2024 resulting in less higher-grade ore processed. Mining and processing of these higher-grade tonnes is now expected in 2025 as equipment availability had returned to full capacity and mining rates were at expected levels at the end of 2024. Despite short term variations, overall mined ore volumes and grades continue to reconcile relatively well with modelled values. The Fekola processing facilities continued to perform as expected with 2.4 million tonnes processed during the fourth quarter of 2024.
For the full year 2024, the Fekola Mine produced 392,946 ounces of gold, below the low-end of its revised annual guidance range of between 420,000 and 450,000 ounces due to the significant delays in accessing the higher-grade ore from Fekola Phase 7. At the end of 2024, equipment availability was at full capacity and mining rates were as expected, positioning Fekola for strong operational performance in 2025. The Fekola Mine and mill are operating without limitations and gold production is being exported for refining as per its regular planned schedule.
Masbate Mine – The Philippines
| Q4 2024 | |
| Tonnes of ore milled | 2,190,610 |
| Grade (grams/tonne) | 0.95 |
| Recovery (%) | 74.1 |
| Gold production (ounces) | 49,534 |
| Gold sold (ounces) | 51,010 |
The Masbate Mine in the Philippines continued its strong performance in the fourth quarter of 2024, producing 49,534 ounces of gold, ahead of expectations, as a result of higher than anticipated mill throughput and slightly higher ore grade than budgeted, partially offset by slightly lower than expected gold recovery.
For the full year 2024, the Masbate Mine produced 194,046 ounces of gold, at the upper end of its revised guidance range of between 175,000 and 195,000 ounces.
Otjikoto Mine – Namibia
| Q4 2024 | |
| Tonnes of ore milled | 788,536 |
| Grade (grams/tonne) | 2.10 |
| Recovery (%) | 98.6 |
| Gold production (ounces) | 52,452 |
| Gold sold (ounces) | 50,330 |
The Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, in which the Company holds a 90% interest, also had a strong performance, producing 52,452 ounces of gold in the fourth quarter of 2024, with production from the Wolfshag underground mine remaining consistent through the quarter.
For the full year 2024, the Otjikoto Mine produced 198,142 ounces of gold, near the mid-point of its revised guidance range of between 185,000 and 205,000 ounces.
Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Gold Revenue / Year-End 2024 Cash and Revolving Credit Facility Balance
For the fourth quarter of 2024, consolidated gold revenue was $500 million on sales of 187,793 ounces at an average realized gold price of $2,661 per ounce. For the full year 2024, consolidated gold revenue was $1.90 billion on sales of 801,524 ounces at an average realized gold price of $2,373 per ounce.
As of December 31, 2024, unaudited cash and cash equivalents totaled approximately $340 million and $400 million had been drawn on the Company's revolving credit facility, leaving $400 million available for future drawdowns, plus a $200 million accordion feature.
2025 Production and Cost Guidance
| Guidance (100% Basis) (1) | Fekola Complex (2) | Masbate | Otjikoto | Existing Operations Total | Goose | Other | Operations & Projects Total | |
| Period | Full Year | Full Year | Full Year | Full Year | H1 | H2 (3) | Full Year | Full Year |
| Gold Production (koz) | 515 – 550 | 170 - 190 | 165 – 185 | 850 - 925 | - | 120 - 150 | - | 970 – 1,075 |
| Cash Operating Costs  ($/oz produced) | 845 - 905 | 955 – 1,015 | 695 – 755 | 835 – 895 (4) | - | - | - | - |
| Sustaining Capital Expenditures ($M) | 77 | 22 | 13 | 112 | 8 | - | - | 120 |
| Deferred Stripping / Underground Development ($M) | 120 | 8 | 16 | 144 | - | - | - | 144 |
| Sustaining Mine Exploration Expenditures ($M) | 4 | - | - | 4 | - | 10 | - | 14 |
| General & Administrative (incl. Stock Based Compensation) ($M) | 15 | 7 | 6 | 28 | - | - | 66 | 94 |
| All-In Sustaining Costs ($/oz sold) | 1,550 – 1,610 | 1,310 – 1,370 | 980 – 1,040 | 1,460 – 1,520 (4) | - | - | - | - |
| Growth / Construction Capital Expenditures ($M) | 16 | 17 | - | 33 | 101 | - | 28 | 162 |
| Deferred Stripping / Underground Development ($M) | 21 | - | 10 | 31 | 69 | - | - | 100 |
| Growth Exploration Expenditures ($M) | 5 | 3 | 7 | 15 | 15 | 7 | 11 | 48 |
| Total Growth / Non-Sustaining Capital Expenditures ($M) | 42 | 20 | 17 | 79 | 185 | 7 | 39 | 310 |
(  1  )  Totals may not add due to rounding  . Estimates are based on a $2,250 gold price assumption for 2025.
 (2) The Fekola Complex comprises of the Fekola Mine (Medinandi permit hosting the Fekola and Cardinal pits and the Fekola underground) and Fekola Regional (Anaconda Area (Bantako, Menankoto and Bakolobi permits) and the Dandoko permit).
 (3) Goose Mine operating cash costs, all-in sustaining costs, and capital expenditures estimates for the second half of 2025 will be released in Q2 2025 after the release of  B2Gold's initial  Goose life of mine plan.
 (  4  ) Total cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs do not include estimates for the Goose Mine, which will be updated in Q2 2025 prior to commencement of initial  gold production at the Goose Mine  .
In 2025, B2Gold expects total gold production to be between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces, a significant increase from 2024 production levels primarily due to the scheduled mining and processing of higher-grade ore from the Fekola and Cardinal pits made accessible by the meaningful stripping campaign that was undertaken throughout 2024, the expected contribution from Fekola Regional, the commencement of mining of higher-grade ore at Fekola underground, and the commencement of gold production at the Goose Project by the end of the second quarter of 2025.
The Company's full year total cash operating costs for the Fekola Complex, Masbate, and Otjikoto are forecast to be between $835 and $895 per ounce and total AISC are forecast to be between $1,460 and $1,520 per ounce. Operating cost guidance for the Goose Project will be released in the second quarter of 2025 (prior to the commencement of initial production), after publication in the first quarter of 2025 of B2Gold's initial Goose Project life of mine plan based on updated Mineral Reserves.
The Company's total gold production is expected to be significantly higher in the second half of 2025, with the commencement of gold production from Fekola Regional and Fekola underground in mid-2025, and the commencement of gold production at the Goose Project expected by the end of the second quarter of 2025.
Fekola Complex – Mali
The Fekola Complex comprises of the Fekola Mine (Medinandi permit hosting the Fekola and Cardinal pits and Fekola underground) and Fekola Regional (Anaconda Area (Bantako, Menankoto, and Bakolobi permits) and the Dandoko permit). The Fekola Complex's total 2025 gold production is anticipated to increase significantly relative to 2024, predominantly due to the contribution of higher-grade ore from Fekola Regional and Fekola underground in mid-2025. Fekola Regional is anticipated to contribute between 20,000 and 25,000 ounces of additional gold production in 2025 through the trucking of open pit ore to the Fekola mill, and between 25,000 and 35,000 ounces of gold production is expected from the mining of higher-grade ore at Fekola underground, with production expected to commence in mid-2025.
The development of Fekola Regional will enhance the overall Fekola Complex life of mine production profile and is expected to extend the mine life of the Fekola Complex. Fekola Regional is anticipated to contribute approximately 180,000 ounces of additional annual gold production in its first four full years of production from 2026 through 2029. Significant exploration potential remains across the Fekola Complex to further extend mine life.
At the Fekola Mine, ore will continue to be mined from the Fekola and Cardinal pits with production of higher-grade ore at Fekola underground expected to commence in mid-2025. Mining and trucking operations at Fekola Regional will commence following the expected receipt of the exploitation license in the first quarter of 2025, with initial gold production expected in mid-2025.
The Fekola Complex is projected to process 9.56 million tonnes of ore during 2025 at an average grade of 1.84 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold with a process gold recovery of 93.4%. Gold production is expected to be weighted approximately 40% to the first half of 2025 and 60% to the second half of 2025.
Capital expenditures in 2025 at Fekola are expected to total approximately $234 million, nearly a $75 million reduction from total estimated capital expenditures in 2024. Approximately $197 million would be classified as sustaining capital expenditures and $37 million would be classified as growth capital expenditures. Sustaining capital expenditures are expected to include approximately:
Growth capital expenditures are expected to include approximately:
Masbate Mine – The Philippines
Gold production at Masbate is expected to be relatively consistent throughout 2025. Masbate is projected to process 8.0 million tonnes of ore at an average grade of 0.88 g/t gold with a process gold recovery of 79.9%. Mill feed will be a blend of mined fresh ore from the Main Vein pit and low-grade ore stockpiles.
Capital expenditures for 2025 at Masbate are expected to total $47 million, similar to total estimated capital expenditures in 2024. Approximately $30 million would be classified as sustaining capital expenditures and $17 million would be classified as growth capital expenditures. Sustaining capital expenditures are expected to include approximately:
Growth capital expenditures are expected to include approximately $13 million for Pajo pit land acquisition and $4 million for Pajo development.
Otjikoto Mine – Namibia
Gold production at Otjikoto will be weighted towards the first half of 2025 due to the conclusion of open pit mining activities in the third quarter of 2025. For the full year 2025, Otjikoto is projected to process a total of 3.4 million tonnes of ore at an average grade of 1.63 g/t gold with a process gold recovery of 98.0%. Processed ore will be sourced from the Otjikoto pit and the Wolfshag underground mine, supplemented by existing ore stockpiles. Open pit mining operations are scheduled to conclude in the third quarter of 2025, while underground mining operations at Wolfshag are expected to continue into 2027. Exploration results received to date indicate the potential to extend underground production at Wolfshag past 2027, supplementing the processing operations into 2032 when economically viable stockpiles are forecast to be exhausted.
Following the 2024 release of an initial Inferred Mineral Resource Estimate for the Springbok Zone, the southernmost shoot of the recently discovered Antelope deposit, located approximately three km south of the Otjikoto Phase 5 open pit at the Otjikoto Mine in Namibia, the Company commenced a PEA which is expected to be completed early in the first quarter of 2025. Subject to receipt of a positive PEA and necessary permits and approvals, mining of the Springbok Zone could begin to contribute to gold production at Otjikoto as early as 2028. An initial budget of up to $10 million has been approved to de-risk the Antelope deposit development schedule by advancing early work planning, project permits and long lead orders. Exploration of the greater Antelope deposit has the potential to supplement the processing of ore stockpiles at the Otjikoto Mine, with an initial goal of adding between 80,000Â and 90,000 ounces of additional gold production per year from 2029 through 2032, with potential to extend mine life further through additional drilling at the Springbok and Oryx Zones at the Antelope deposit.
Capital expenditures in 2025 at Otjikoto are expected to total $39 million, a small increase from total estimated capital expenditures in 2024. Approximately $29 million would be classified as sustaining capital expenditures and $10 million would be classified as growth capital expenditures. Sustaining capital expenditures are expected to include approximately:
Growth capital expenditures are expected to include approximately $10 million to initiate Antelope deposit development.
Goose Project – Canada
The Back River Gold District consists of eight mineral claims blocks along an 80 km belt. Construction is underway at the most advanced project in the district, the Goose Project, and has been de-risked with significant infrastructure currently in place.
B2Gold recognizes that respect and collaboration with the Kitikmeot Inuit Association ("KIA") is central to the license to operate in the Back River Gold District and will continue to prioritize developing the project in a manner that recognizes Inuit priorities, addresses concerns, and brings long-term socio-economic benefits to the Kitikmeot Region. B2Gold looks forward to continuing to build on its strong collaboration with the KIA and Kitikmeot Communities.
All planned construction activities in 2024 were completed and project construction and development continue to progress on track for first gold pour at the Goose Project in the second quarter of 2025 followed by ramp up to commercial production in the third quarter of 2025. The Company continues to estimate that gold production in calendar year 2025 will be between 120,000 and 150,000 ounces and that average annual gold production for the six year period from 2026 to 2031 inclusive will be approximately 310,000 ounces per year, with the latest published Mineral Reserves supporting a long mine life beyond 2031. The Company remains on track to complete B2Gold's initial Goose Project life of mine plan based on updated Mineral Reserves by the end of the first quarter of 2025.
Following the successful completion of the 2024 sea lift, the construction of the WIR is well underway and expected to be completed on schedule and fully operational before March 2025, allowing for the transportation of all materials from the MLA to the Goose Project site by the end of May 2025.
Development of the open pit and underground remain the Company's primary focus to ensure that adequate material is available for mill startup and that the Echo pit is available for tailings placement. Mining of the Echo pit continues to meet production targets and is anticipated to be ready to receive tailings when the mill starts. The Umwelt underground development remains on schedule for commencement of production by the end of the second quarter of 2025.
As of September 30, 2024, C$1,176 million of construction and mine development cash expenditures (or 76% of the total estimated cash expenditures) had been incurred. Based on its unaudited November 2024 cost report, the Company estimates that approximately 83% of the total estimated cash expenditures to first gold had been incurred as of November 30, 2024. Reconciled total cash expenditures as of December 31, 2024, will be published with the Company's year-end financial statements to be released in February 2025. Based on the construction and mine development cash expenditures incurred to date, combined with the estimated expenditures to be incurred through to the first gold pour in the second quarter of 2025, the Company reiterates the total Goose Project construction and mine development cash expenditure estimate of C$1,540 million, as announced on September 12, 2024.
Gramalote Project – Colombia
On June 18, 2024, the Company announced the results of a positive PEA on its 100% owned Gramalote Project located in the Department of Antioquia, Colombia. The PEA outlines a significant production profile of 234,000 ounces of annual gold production for the first five years, with average annual gold production of 185,000 ounces over a 12.5 year project life with a low-cost structure and favorable metallurgical characteristics. Additionally, the PEA outlines strong project economics with an after-tax NPV 5% of $778 million and an after-tax internal rate of return of 20.6%, with a project payback on pre-production capital of 3.1 years at a long-term gold price of $2,000 per ounce.
The pre-production capital cost for the project was estimated to be $807 million (including approximately $93 million for mining equipment and $63 million for contingency). A robust amount of historical drilling and engineering studies have been completed on the Gramalote Project, which significantly de-risks future project development. Based on the positive results from the PEA, B2Gold believes that the Gramalote Project has the potential to become a medium-scale, low-cost open pit gold mine.
B2Gold has commenced feasibility work with the goal of completing a feasibility study in mid-2025. Due to the work completed for previous studies, the work remaining to finalize a feasibility study for the updated medium-scale project is not expected to be extensive. The main work programs for the feasibility study include geotechnical and environmental site investigations for the processing plant and waste dump footprints, as well as capital and operating cost estimates. Those work programs, as well as processing engineering and site infrastructure design, are underway and the study is on schedule.
The Gramalote Project will continue to advance resettlement programs, establish coexistence programs for small miners, work on health, safety and environmental projects and continue to work with the government and local communities on social programs.
Due to the desired modifications to the processing plant and infrastructure locations, a Modified Environment Impact Study is required. B2Gold has commenced work on the modifications to the Environment Impact Study and expect it to be completed and submitted shortly following the completion of the feasibility study. If the final economics of the feasibility study are positive and B2Gold makes the decision to develop the Gramalote Project as an open pit gold mine, B2Gold would utilize its proven internal mine construction team to build the mine and mill facilities.
Capital expenditures in 2025 at Gramalote are expected to be relatively stable throughout the year, totaling $28 million related primarily to feasibility study costs and ongoing care and maintenance.
Exploration
B2Gold is planning another year of extensive exploration in 2025 with a budget of approximately $61 million. A significant focus will be on exploration at the Back River Gold District, with the goal of enhancing and growing the significant resource base at the Goose Project and surrounding regional targets. In Namibia, the exploration program at the Otjikoto Mine will be focused on enhancing and increasing the resources at the Antelope deposit. In Mali, an ongoing focus will be on discovery of additional high-grade, sulphide mineralization across the Fekola Complex. In the Philippines, the exploration program at Masbate will continue to focus on new targets located south of the Masbate Mine infrastructure. Early stage exploration programs will continue in the Philippines, Cote d'Ivoire and Kazakhstan in 2025. Finally, the search for new joint ventures and strategic investment opportunities will continue, building on existing equity investments in Snowline Gold Corp., Founders Metals Inc., AuMEGA Metals Ltd., and Prospector Metals Corp.
Canada Exploration
A total of $32 million is budgeted for exploration at the Back River Gold District in 2025, of which $21 million is planned for the more advanced Goose Project. A total of 12,000 meters ("m") of drilling will target extensions of the Llama and Umwelt deposits, the largest and highest-grade resources at the Goose Project. In addition, follow up drilling of significant results returned at the Nuvuyak, Mammoth and Hook targets are planned.
Regional exploration including geophysics, mapping, prospecting and till sampling will be undertaken on the George, Boot, Boulder, Del, Beech and Needle projects. This regional work will also include an estimated 13,000 m of diamond drilling to follow up drill ready targets defined during the 2024 summer regional exploration program. A significantly increased budget of $11 million is being allocated for the regional projects.
Mali Exploration
A total of $9 million is budgeted for exploration in Mali in 2025 with an ongoing focus on discovery of additional high-grade, sulphide mineralization across the Fekola Complex to supplement feed to the Fekola mill. A total of 16,000 m of diamond and reverse circulation drilling is planned for Mali in 2025.
Namibia Exploration
A total of $7 million is budgeted for exploration at Otjikoto in 2025. The focus of the exploration program will be drilling to expand and refine the recently discovered Antelope deposit, located approximately 3 km south of Phase 5 of the Otjikoto open pit, with a total of 44,000 m of drilling planned.
The Philippines Exploration
The total budget for the Philippines in 2025 is approximately $5 million, of which the Masbate exploration budget is $3 million, including approximately 4,200 m of drilling. The 2025 exploration program will continue to focus on exploration of new regional targets located south of the main mine infrastructure at Masbate.
An additional $2 million will be allocated to targeting new regional projects in highly prospective areas in the Philippines, leveraging off B2Gold's presence and operational experience in the country. A total of 2,000 m is allocated to testing new projects.
Grassroots Exploration
B2Gold has allocated approximately $9 million to other grassroots exploration projects in 2025. This includes $2 million (7,200 m) in Kazakhstan, $2 million in Finland, and $1 million (1,000 m) in Cote d'Ivoire. In addition to the defined programs noted above, the Company has allocated approximately $4 million for the generation and evaluation of new greenfield targets.
About B2Gold
B2Gold is a low-cost international senior gold producer headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Founded in 2007, today, B2Gold has operating gold mines in Mali, Namibia and the Philippines, the Goose Project under construction in northern Canada and numerous development and exploration projects in various countries including Mali, Colombia and Finland. B2Gold forecasts total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025.
Qualified Persons
Bill Lytle, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information related to operations matters contained in this news release.
Andrew Brown, P. Geo., Vice President, Exploration, a qualified person under NI 43-101, has approved the scientific and technical information related to exploration and mineral resource matters contained in this news release.
ON BEHALF OF B2GOLD CORP.
"Clive T. Johnson"
President and Chief Executive Officer
Source: B2Gold Corp.
The Toronto Stock Exchange and NYSE American LLC neither approve nor disapprove the information contained in this news release.
Production results and production guidance presented in this news release reflect total production at the mines B2Gold operates on a 100% project basis. Please see our Annual Information Form dated March 14, 2024 for a discussion of our ownership interest in the mines B2Gold operates.
This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation, including: projections; outlook; guidance; forecasts; estimates; and other statements regarding future or estimated financial and operational performance, gold production and sales, revenues and cash flows, and capital costs (sustaining and non-sustaining) and operating costs, including projected cash operating costs and AISC, and budgets on a consolidated and mine by mine basis; future or estimated mine life, metal price assumptions, ore grades or sources, gold recovery rates, stripping ratios, throughput, ore processing; statements regarding anticipated exploration, drilling, development, construction, permitting and other activities or achievements of B2Gold; and including, without limitation: remaining well positioned for continued strong operational and financial performance in 2025; projected gold production, cash operating costs and all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") on a consolidated and mine by mine basis in 2025 for the Fekola Complex, the Otjikoto Mine, the Masbate Gold Project and the Goose Project; total consolidated cash operating costs of between $835 and $895 per ounce and AISC of between $1,420 and $1,480 per ounce in 2024; total consolidated gold production of between 970,000 and 1,075,000 ounces in 2025, with cash operating costs of between $835 and $895 per ounce and AISC of between $1,460 and $1,520 per ounce; B2Gold's continued prioritization of developing the Goose Project in a manner that recognizes Indigenous input and concerns and brings long-term socio-economic benefits to the area; the Goose Project capital cost being approximately C$1,190 million and the net cost of open pit and underground development, deferred stripping, and sustaining capital expenditures to be incurred prior to first gold production being approximately C$350 million and the cost for reagents and other working capital items being C$330 million; the Goose Project producing approximately 310,000 ounces of gold per year for the first six years; the potential for first gold production in the second quarter of 2025 from the Goose Project and the estimates of such production; trucking of selective higher-grade saprolite material from the Anaconda Area to the Fekola mill having the potential to generate approximately 80,000 to 100,000 ounces of additional gold production per year from Fekola Regional sources; the receipt of the exploitation permit for Fekola Regional and Fekola Regional production expected to commence in the second quarter of 2025; the receipt of a permit for Fekola underground and Fekola underground commencing operation in mid-2025; the potential for the Antelope deposit to be developed as an underground operation and contribute gold during the low-grade stockpile processing in 2029 through 2032; the results and estimates in the Gramalote PEA, including the project life, average annual gold production, processing rate, capital cost, net present value, after-tax net cash flow, after-tax internal rate of return and payback; the timing and results of a feasibility study on the Gramalote Project; the potential to develop the Gramalote Project as an open pit gold mine; and planned 2025 exploration budgets for Canada, Mali, Namibia, The Philippines, Finland, Cote D'Ivoire and other grassroots projects. All statements in this news release that address events or developments that we expect to occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, although not always, identified by words such as "expect", "plan", "anticipate", "project", "target", "potential", "schedule", "forecast", "budget", "estimate", "intend" or "believe" and similar expressions or their negative connotations, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could", "should" or "might" occur. All such forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made.
Forward-looking statements necessarily involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond B2Gold's control, including risks associated with or related to: the volatility of metal prices and B2Gold's common shares; changes in tax laws; the dangers inherent in exploration, development and mining activities; the uncertainty of reserve and resource estimates; not achieving production, cost or other estimates; actual production, development plans and costs differing materially from the estimates in B2Gold's feasibility and other studies; the ability to obtain and maintain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for mining activities; environmental regulations or hazards and compliance with complex regulations associated with mining activities; climate change and climate change regulations; the ability to replace mineral reserves and identify acquisition opportunities; the unknown liabilities of companies acquired by B2Gold; the ability to successfully integrate new acquisitions; fluctuations in exchange rates; the availability of financing; financing and debt activities, including potential restrictions imposed on B2Gold's operations as a result thereof and the ability to generate sufficient cash flows; operations in foreign and developing countries and the compliance with foreign laws, including those associated with operations in Mali, Namibia, the Philippines and Colombia and including risks related to changes in foreign laws and changing policies related to mining and local ownership requirements or resource nationalization generally; remote operations and the availability of adequate infrastructure; fluctuations in price and availability of energy and other inputs necessary for mining operations; shortages or cost increases in necessary equipment, supplies and labour; regulatory, political and country risks, including local instability or acts of terrorism and the effects thereof; the reliance upon contractors, third parties and joint venture partners; the lack of sole decision-making authority related to Filminera Resources Corporation, which owns the Masbate Project; challenges to title or surface rights; the dependence on key personnel and the ability to attract and retain skilled personnel; the risk of an uninsurable or uninsured loss; adverse climate and weather conditions; litigation risk; competition with other mining companies; community support for B2Gold's operations, including risks related to strikes and the halting of such operations from time to time; conflicts with small scale miners; failures of information systems or information security threats; the ability to maintain adequate internal controls over financial reporting as required by law, including Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act; compliance with anti-corruption laws, and sanctions or other similar measures; social media and B2Gold's reputation; risks affecting Calibre having an impact on the value of the Company's investment in Calibre, and potential dilution of our equity interest in Calibre; as well as other factors identified and as described in more detail under the heading "Risk Factors" in B2Gold's most recent Annual Information Form, B2Gold's current Form 40-F Annual Report and B2Gold's other filings with Canadian securities regulators and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), which may be viewed at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov, respectively (the "Websites"). The list is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect B2Gold's forward-looking statements.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the applicable assumptions and factors management considers reasonable as of the date hereof, based on the information available to management at such time. These assumptions and factors include, but are not limited to, assumptions and factors related to B2Gold's ability to carry on current and future operations, including: development and exploration activities; the timing, extent, duration and economic viability of such operations, including any mineral resources or reserves identified thereby; the accuracy and reliability of estimates, projections, forecasts, studies and assessments; B2Gold's ability to meet or achieve estimates, projections and forecasts; the availability and cost of inputs; the price and market for outputs, including gold; foreign exchange rates; taxation levels; the timely receipt of necessary approvals or permits; the ability to meet current and future obligations; the ability to obtain timely financing on reasonable terms when required; the current and future social, economic and political conditions; and other assumptions and factors generally associated with the mining industry.
B2Gold's forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management and reflect their current expectations regarding future events and operating performance and speak only as of the date hereof. B2Gold does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's beliefs, expectations or opinions should change other than as required by applicable law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, these forward-looking statements. Accordingly, no assurance can be given that any events anticipated by the forward-looking statements will transpire or occur, or if any of them do, what benefits or liabilities B2Gold will derive therefrom. For the reasons set forth above, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.
Non-IFRS Measures
This news release includes certain terms or performance measures commonly used in the mining industry that are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), including "cash operating costs" and "all-in sustaining costs" (or "AISC"). Non-IFRS measures do not have any standardized meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore they may not be comparable to similar measures employed by other companies. The projected range of AISC is anticipated to be adjusted to include sustaining capital expenditures, corporate administrative expense, mine-site exploration and evaluation costs and reclamation cost accretion and amortization, and exclude the effects of expansionary capital and non-sustaining expenditures. Projected GAAP total production cash costs for the full year would require inclusion of the projected impact of future included and excluded items, including items that are not currently determinable, but may be significant, such as sustaining capital expenditures, reclamation cost accretion and amortization. Due to the uncertainty of the likelihood, amount and timing of any such items, B2Gold does not have information available to provide a quantitative reconciliation of projected AISC to a total production cash costs projection. B2Gold believes that this measure represents the total costs of producing gold from current operations, and provides B2Gold and other stakeholders of the Company with additional information of B2Gold's operational performance and ability to generate cash flows. AISC, as a key performance measure, allows B2Gold to assess its ability to support capital expenditures and to sustain future production from the generation of operating cash flows. This information provides management with the ability to more actively manage capital programs and to make more prudent capital investment decisions.
The data presented is intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS and should be read in conjunction with B2Gold's consolidated financial statements. Readers should refer to B2Gold's Management Discussion and Analysis, available on the Websites, under the heading "Non-IFRS Measures" for a more detailed discussion of how B2Gold calculates certain such measures and a reconciliation of certain measures to IFRS terms.
Cautionary Statement Regarding Mineral Reserve and Resource Estimates
The disclosure in this news release was prepared in accordance with Canadian standards for the reporting of mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates, which differ in some material respects from the disclosure requirements of United States securities laws. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the terms "mineral reserve", "proven mineral reserve", "probable mineral reserve", "inferred mineral resources,", "indicated mineral resources," "measured mineral resources" and "mineral resources" used or referenced in this prospectus, any prospectus supplement and the documents incorporated by reference herein or therein are Canadian mineral disclosure terms as defined in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (the "CIM") - CIM Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, adopted by the CIM Council, as amended (the "CIM Definition Standards"). The definitions of these terms, and other mining terms and disclosures, differ from the definitions of such terms, if any, for purposes of the SEC's disclosure rules the SEC for domestic United States Issuers (the "SEC Rules"), (the "Exchange Act"). Accordingly, mineral reserve and mineral resource information and other technical information contained in this news release may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by United States companies subject to the SEC's reporting and disclosure requirements for domestic United States issuers.
Historical results or feasibility models presented herein are not guarantees or expectations of future performance. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Due to the uncertainty of measured, indicated or inferred mineral resources, these mineral resources may never be upgraded to proven and probable mineral reserves. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part of mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves or recovered. In addition, United States investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of B2Gold's measured, indicated or inferred mineral resources constitute or will be converted into mineral reserves or are or will be economically or legally mineable without additional work.
For more information on B2Gold please visit the Company website at www.b2gold.com or contact: Michael McDonald VP, Investor Relations & Corporate Development +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com Cherry De Geer Director, Corporate Communications +1 604-681-8371 investor@b2gold.com
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Kinross Gold Corporation (TSX: K; NYSE: KGC) (the "Company") will release its 2024 fourth-quarter and full-year financial statements and operating results on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, after market close. The Company will also provide its full-year 2025 guidance, mineral reserve, and mineral resource statement as of December 31, 2024, and an exploration and project update. Kinross will hold a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET to present the results, followed by a question-and-answer session.
The call-in numbers for the conference call on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET are as follows:
Canada & US toll-free – +1 (888) 596-4144; Passcode: 8057299
Outside of Canada & US – +1 (646) 968-2525; Passcode: 8057299
Replay (available up to 14 days after the call):
Canada & US toll-free – +1 (800) 770-2030; Passcode: 8057299
Outside of Canada & US – +1 (647) 362-9199; Passcode: 8057299
You may also access the conference call on a listen-only basis via webcast at our website www.kinross.com . The audio webcast will be archived on www.kinross.com .
Kinross' quarterly reporting schedule for the remainder of 2025 will be as follows:
About Kinross Gold Corporation
Kinross is a Canadian-based global senior gold mining company with operations and projects in the United States, Brazil, Mauritania, Chile and Canada. Our focus is on delivering value based on the core principles of responsible mining, operational excellence, disciplined growth, and balance sheet strength. Kinross maintains listings on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol: K) and the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: KGC).
Media Contact
Victoria Barrington
Senior Director, Corporate Communications
phone: 289-455-1950
victoria.barrington@kinross.com
Investor Relations Contact
David Shaver
Senior Vice-President
phone: 416-365-2761
InvestorRelations@kinross.com
Source: Kinross Gold Corp.
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
Kinross Gold Corporation (TSX: K; NYSE: KGC) (the "Company") will release its 2024 fourth-quarter and full-year financial statements and operating results on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, after market close. The Company will also provide its full-year 2025 guidance, mineral reserve, and mineral resource statement as of December 31, 2024, and an exploration and project update. Kinross will hold a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET to present the results, followed by a question-and-answer session.
The call-in numbers for the conference call on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 8 a.m. ET are as follows:
Canada & US toll-free – +1 (888) 596-4144; Passcode: 8057299
Outside of Canada & US – +1 (646) 968-2525; Passcode: 8057299
Replay (available up to 14 days after the call):
Canada & US toll-free – +1 (800) 770-2030; Passcode: 8057299
Outside of Canada & US – +1 (647) 362-9199; Passcode: 8057299
You may also access the conference call on a listen-only basis via webcast at our website www.kinross.com . The audio webcast will be archived on www.kinross.com .
Kinross' quarterly reporting schedule for the remainder of 2025 will be as follows:
About Kinross Gold Corporation
Kinross is a Canadian-based global senior gold mining company with operations and projects in the United States, Brazil, Mauritania, Chile and Canada. Our focus is on delivering value based on the core principles of responsible mining, operational excellence, disciplined growth, and balance sheet strength. Kinross maintains listings on the Toronto Stock Exchange (symbol: K) and the New York Stock Exchange (symbol: KGC).
Media Contact
Victoria Barrington
Senior Director, Corporate Communications
phone: 289-455-1950
victoria.barrington@kinross.com
Investor Relations Contact
David Shaver
Senior Vice-President
phone: 416-365-2761
InvestorRelations@kinross.com
Source: Kinross Gold Corp.
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