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VVC Exploration Corporation, dba VVC Resources, ("VVC"), (TSX-V:VVC and OTCQC:VVCVF) announces the following:
Appointment of Officers
VVC Resources Investor Kit
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VVC Resources
Investor Insight
With a growing list of natural resources assets vital to growing global demand in the healthcare and technology sectors, VVC Resources presents an investment opportunity for investors looking to diversify their portfolios.
Overview
The global helium market is expected to increase from $4.45 billion in 2022 to $5.03 billion in 2023 at a compound annual growth rate of 12.9 percent driven by the growing demand for helium from the healthcare industry. Helium is important in medicine because this rare element is used in various ways, one of which is as a refrigerant capable of cooling the superconducting magnets in MRI scanners. This non-reactive, non-corrosive, non-flammable noble gas is not only used in diagnosis equipment but also as an adjunct therapy for certain diseases like COPD, asthma and bronchiolitis.
Although helium is the second most common element on earth, global helium supplies are running low. Resource companies that supply industries dependent on helium should explore potential helium reserves and evaluate data to come up with a unique strategy for increasing helium production.
VVC Resources (TSXV:VVC;OTCQB:VVCVF) engages in the exploration, development and management of natural resources - specializing in scarce and increasingly valuable materials needed to meet the growing, high-tech demands of industries such as manufacturing, technology, medicine, space travel and the expanding green economy.
The company’s portfolio includes a diverse set of assets and high-growth projects, comprising: helium and industrial gas production in the western US; copper and associated metals operations in northern Mexico; and strategic investments in carbon sequestration and other green energy technologies.
VVC currently targets helium reserves in the US by reactivating old gas wells and drilling new wells. In January 2022, the company engaged Foreland Operating to manage the day-to-day helium operations going forward. In March 2022, VVC announced the successful completion and connection of its first helium well in the Syracuse Project. The well, known as the Levens #2, was connected to Tumbleweed Midstream’s Ladder Creek Pipeline, which transports gas to the Ladder Creek Helium Processing Plant in Cheyenne Wells, Colorado. VVC further confirmed the presence of helium up to 1.14 percent from its second drilled well in the Syracuse Project.
VVC also acquired the Monarch Project to further capitalize on the growing demand for helium due to increased global usage. The Monarch Project consists of more than 1,700 acres of gas leases located in Greely County, Kansas with six existing wells. Minor repairs were made to five of the six wells, restoring electric power service, and began generating revenue from the natural gas and helium at low volumes. The focus of this project is the 14 additional potential well locations which are conveniently located for connection to the Tumbleweed pipeline.
VVC’s helium portfolio reached another significant milestone with the installation of 14 miles of its internal gathering system pipeline in the Syracuse Project. The major infrastructure will seamlessly transport gas produced by the company’s helium and natural gas wells to a nearby processing plant. The milestone increases the pipeline’s length from 7 to 14 miles and the project’s capacity from 50 to 100 wells.
VVC is advancing its Gloria copper property in Mexico towards production. The 4,055-acre Gloria property is situated in the northern part of Mexico’s Chihuahua state in the Sierra Madre region 60 kilometers southwest of El Paso, Texas. The project is also supported by infrastructure including an access road and an available mining workforce.
VVC Exploration is led by a management team with a wealth of mining experience and is supported by a board of directors with significant influence in both the mining and financial industries. The management and board are also notably invested in the company, with the CEO, members of management and the board of directors listed as top investors. As a whole, the company has a tight share structure with over 90 million shares held by the top 25 investors.
Company Highlights
Helium, Natural Gas & Other Industrial Gases
- A growing portfolio of helium and NG projects with the acquisition of Plateau Helium, currently comprising 69 leases covering 16,400 acres known as the Syracuse Kansas project, 1,600 acres in the Monarch property, Stockholm project (3,000 acres), Johnson-Moore project (6,000 acres), LF project (5,000 acres) and State Line project (6,000 acres).
- The Colorado project, located in Eastern, Colorado, comprises 23,000 acres of gas leases and leasing continuing, with a total of 26 historical wells that were previously drilled flowing gas that tested helium above 3 percent.
- Six wells connected and producing, two ready to complete in the Syracuse KS project (as of December 2024).
- One well drilled and completed, producing into tanks in the Stockholm KS project. Connection line to processing plant in process. Helium, natural gas and oil sales expected in January 2025, additional well sites identified (as of December 2024).
- The initial well of the Kansas Oil project has begun producing. The company is currently in the planning phase for additional wells in the area.
- Installed 14 miles of internal gathering system pipeline to transport helium and natural gas wells to a nearby processing facility.
- Installed a 15-mile water disposal system.
Copper, Base & Precious Metals
- VVC’s near-production Gloria copper property, located in Mexico, has an indicated copper resource of 59.4 million pounds and 89.33 million pounds of inferred copper.
Strategic Investments
Energy Transition & Carbon Capture
- Strategic investment in Proton Green as part of its carbon capture venture. Proton Green’s focus project, the St. John’s Field, contains 33 billion cubic feet of helium and the ability to inject up to 22 million metric tons of CO2 per year at its primary basin
- Helium production began August 30, 2023.
- Food grade CO2 production is expected to begin in 2025.
Helium & Natural Gas
- Strategic investment in the PHC South Africa project, located in the Free State, Republic of South Africa East of Welcome and South of Kroonstad 147 miles southwest of Johannesburg (152,000 acres).
Key Projects
Helium Portfolio
As of Dec 2024
Plateau Helium Corporation
In January 2021, VVC Exploration acquired Plateau Helium Corporation (PHC), a Wyoming Corporation focused on helium exploration and development, primarily in the western US. PHC’s initial target project is located in Kansas and currently comprises 69 leases covering 16,371 acres known as the Syracuse Helium Project.
Plateau Helium Corporation engaged Foreland Operating to manage the company’s helium production. Foreland Operating is a Texas-based upstream oil and gas operating company with a long-tenured team that has been operating in many of the premiere US basins including the Barnett Shale, the Marcellus Shale and the Permian Basin.
Syracuse
Syracuse is VVC’s helium project with 16,400 acres of contiguous oil and gas leases. The company has identified 16 identified well sites in the area with internal estimates of a future resource of 75 Bcf of gas. Currently, Syracuse has 22 well sites permitted or currently being permitted, each with the potential to produce over 1 billion cubic feet of gas.
In 2022, the company announced it successfully completed and connected its first helium well to the project. The well is known as the Levens #2 and was connected to Tumbleweed Midstream’s Ladder Creek Pipeline allowing the transport of gas to the Ladder Creek Helium Processing Plant in Cheyenne Wells, Colorado. The Levens #2 was successfully drilled to a depth of 2,478 feet and encountered multiple gas zones.
As of Dec 2024
Monarch Lease
VVC purchased the Monarch Lease in April 2021, bolstering VVC’s ability to capitalize on the growing demand for helium, driven by increased global usage. The Monarch Lease is a 1,720-acre property that is located in the Byerly Field in Greely County, Kansas and includes six formerly producing gas wells that are still connected to the Tumbleweed Midstream pipeline. All wells produced both methane and helium. There is additional potential in the deeper zones of this property which VVC will explore.
Stockholm Project
The Stockholm project is VVC’s top drilling priority project in Wallace Kansas in an area with significant natural gas potential. Stockholm spans 3,000 acres of permitted jurisdiction targeted for helium, natural gas and hydrogen. VVC has commenced drilling activities at the Josephine Mack 1-18 well, marking the initiation of the company's first test well within the Stockholm project.The Josephine Mack 1-18 well is VVC's strategic entry into this geologically promising region which evaluates the hydrocarbon potential of the Morrow Zone. The Stockholm project shows potential for oil production as well.
Copper and Associated Metals
VVC’s current copper focus project is Gloria in Northern Mexico which is a host to oxide copper mineralization with a copper resource of 59.4 million pounds, indicated (9.6 million tonnes grading 0.28 percent copper) and 89.33 million pounds, inferred (14.4 million tonnes grading 0.28 percent copper). The property spans 4,055 acres in Chihuahua State and drilling over the past two years has defined a significant copper mineralized zone over a 15-kilometer strike.
Gloria provides VVC with a unique exposure to the copper market. Approximately 100,000 tons of artisanal ore piles on site that have been high graded, hand cobbed (sorted), and can be utilized for pilot/test mining.
Located in Central Sonora Mexico is VVC’s 16,622-acre Cumeral gold/copper exploration project. Cumeral covers an epithermal style, mineralized gold/silver zone at least 3.6 kilometers long with geological structure and surface sampling suggest the potential for multi-million ounce gold deposit.
Carbon Capture
Proton Green
VVC recently made a strategic investment in Proton Green, an energy transition company poised to become one of the leading helium producers and carbon sequestration hubs in North America.
Proton Green, LLC, is a producer of helium and hydrogen and is building out its position as a large carbon sequestration operator in North America. With operating control over the St. Johns Field, a 152,000-acre property in Apache County, Arizona, Proton Green controls a helium reservoir and carbon storage basin.
Proton Green’s initial project is the St. Johns Field. The St. Johns Field is a massive helium reservoir and immense carbon storage basin located in Apache County, Arizona. Extensive third-party geological studies performed on the property indicate reserves of up to 33 billion cubic feet of helium in shallow, easily accessible reservoirs. Capable of producing one billion cubic feet of helium per year, it will be among the most prolific helium production sites in the world.
It is also projected to be among the largest carbon capture companies in North America, with 22 million metric tons of carbon sequestration per year, and a total storage capacity of over 1 billion metric tons.
Management Team
Terrence Martell - Chairman of the Board
Dr. Terrence Martell is the director of the Weissman Center for International Business at Baruch College and the Saxe Distinguished Professor of Finance where he oversees a myriad of international education programs and projects. He is also the chairperson of the University Faculty Senate and an ex-officio member of the board of trustees at The City University of New York. His area of expertise and research is international commodity markets.
He is a director of the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) where he serves on the audit committee and has many roles. He serves on the board of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce and is a member of their executive committee. He is also a member of the New York City District Export Council of the US Department of Commerce and a member of the Reuters/Jefferies CRB Index Oversight Committee. Dr. Martell received his BA in Economics from Iona College and his PhD in Finance from the Pennsylvania State University.
James (Jim) Culver - President, CEO and Director
Dr. James Culver has spent over 40 years in the fields of commodities, international trade and trade finance, holding posts in government, academia and the private sector. For the last 20 years, he has focused on commodity finance and commodity project finance, primarily in mining and metals and agricultural products. He spent 22 years working in New York City where he most recently managed two private commodity asset-based lending companies and developed hedge funds to support their lending activities.
Previously, Dr. Culver served as chief economist and director of the Economics and Education Division for the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. He was responsible for market surveillance and new product approvals. He also served for five years on the staff of the Committee on Agriculture of the US House of Representatives. In addition, Culver has been an active participant in a family-owned and operated business, The Parsons Group International Education Inc., a for-profit educational services company. He earned his B.Sc. at the University of Tennessee Martin and his MSc. and PhD degrees from the University of Tennessee Knoxville.
Andre St-Michel - Senior Consultant, Mexican Operations
A Canadian mining engineer and geologist residing in Chihuahua, Mexico, Andre St-Michel has over 30 years of experience in the mining business with a focus on mine development, mill operation, administration and finance. He has spent the last 10 years working in Mexico where he currently serves as President and CEO of Freyja Resources.
From 2003 to 2008, he was a senior executive of Dia Bras (now Sierra Metals), responsible for its exploration programs and the start-up of its Bolivar copper and zinc mine. From the initial start-up of the mine in 2005, production reached 450 tons per day in 2006 with annual projected revenues of approximately $27 million and cash flows of approximately $10 million. Prior to 2003, he served as president of ECU Silver Mining, developing programs and properties in the US, Brazil and Mexico. He holds a degree from the Laval University Engineering School and a Master’s degree in Project Management from University du Quebec. He is a professional engineer.
Michael Lafrance - Director and Secretary-Treasurer
Michael Lafrance has been VVC Exploration’s secretary and treasurer and geological consultant since December 2012. Since 1980, he has served in similar roles with many other publicly-traded exploration companies. He is also the corporate secretary of POET Technologies Inc. (formerly Opel Technologies), a pioneer in the field of integrated circuits. He is a graduate of the University of Ottawa.
Kevin Barnes - CFO
Kevin Barnes has served as the corporate controller and CFO of various public and private companies over the last 12 years. He also served in the role of IT manager and senior accountant with Duguay and Ringler Corporate Services, a firm which provides corporate accounting and secretarial services to publicly-traded companies. He served as the controller of Canada’s Choice Spring Water, one of Canada’s first publicly traded bottled water companies.
He currently serves as CFO of Poet Technologies, a pioneer in the field of integrated circuits and Controller of an international training institute with revenues of $100 million. Barnes received a computer operations diploma from the Careers Development Institute and has a Certified Management Accountant designation from the ICMA Australia. In 2006, he became a member of the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Canada.
Peter Dimmell - Director
Peter Dimmell is a geologist and prospector who has been involved in mineral exploration in Canada, the United States and overseas for 38 years. He is experienced in all aspects of the mining industry and has guided on-site operations from exploration through to production. He is a past president of the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC), a director and former chairman of the Newfoundland and Labrador Chamber of Mineral Resources and a councilor and member of the Geological Association of Canada. He sits on the Board of Directors of four other public companies: Arehada Mining, Linear Gold, Pele Mountain Resources and Silver Spruce Resources, for which he also serves as CEO.
Bruno Dumais - Director
Bruno Dumais is vice-president of finance, for BroadSign International, a Montreal-based provider of digital signage solutions. He possesses over 20 years of experience in financial, forecast and strategic planning and is responsible for overseeing global financial activities. Before joining BroadSign, he was the chief financial officer, vice-president of finance and a consultant at Mitec Telecom for seven years. He has also held senior level positions in companies crossing a variety of sectors, such as Gestion Exponent, Nortel Networks and Premier Tech. Dumais is a chartered professional accountant and holds both a Bachelor in Business Administration from the University of Quebec in Rimouski and an International MBA from the University of Ottawa.
Patrick Fernet - Director
Patrick Fernet is a legal, operations, and corporate governance expert with more than twelve years’ experience in Canadian small-cap public corporations. He serves as a consultant to VVC on a variety of corporate matters. He has more than 15 years of governance experience with small-cap Canadian corporations.
Scott Hill - Director
Scott Hill has served as chief financial officer of Intercontinental Exchange Inc (ICE) since May 2007. He is responsible for all aspects of ICE’s finance and accounting functions, treasury, tax, audit and controls, business development, human resources and investor relations. Hill also oversees ICE’s global clearing operations. Prior to joining ICE, Hill was assistant controller for Financial Forecasts and Measurements at IBM, where he oversaw worldwide financial performance and worked with all global business units and geographies. Hill began his career at IBM and held various accounting and financial positions in the US, Europe, and Japan, including vice-president and controller of IBM Japan, and assistant controller, financial strategy and budgets..
Leon Vijay Shivamber - Director
Leon Shivamber is a transformation leader with more than three decades of successful transformations under his belt. He learned about strategy and business integrity during his years at McKinsey & Company, change management, and rapid transformation during his New York Consulting Partners years and high-performance acquisitions during his years at Arrow Electronics. He spent five years leading the prize-winning supply chain and operations transformation at the then Harris Corporation (now L3 Harris Technologies). For three years after that role, Leon extended and applied his transformation experience as a leader and general manager building an international joint venture in the Middle East.
Thereafter, Leon spent three years as CEO leading the vibrant UAE headquartered Atlas Group with strategic businesses in communications, defense, energy, food, healthcare, hospitality, public safety, and security. He also spent two additional years advising Atlas Group and other Middle-East-based corporations on their transformation efforts. Since that time, Leon has returned to the United States and has been acting as a senior advisor to several corporate transformations. He is a fellow, Life Management Institute (FLMI), and a trustee of the board of directors of Baruch College Fund.
Engaging in the exploration, development, and management of natural resources
VVC Appoints New President & Grants Options
The Directors appointed Mr. Bill Kerrigan as President and Chief Operating Officer of VVC. Mr. Kerrigan will continue to be President of Plateau Helium Corporation. Mr. James A. Culver will remain as CEO of VVC.
VVC Chairman, Terrence Martell, commented, " As a representative of Management and the Board, I extend heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Culver for his years of service as President. I also welcome Mr. Kerrigan to his new role as President and I am confident that he will provide positive momentum for VVC."
Option Grant
The Directors also granted incentive stock options under its stock option plan, to officers, directors and consultants of the Company, to purchase up to an aggregate of 15,700,000 common shares, representing 2.74% of the outstanding shares of the Company. The stock options are exercisable at a price of CA$0.05 per share expiring March 17, 2035. 25% of the options granted will vest immediately with the remaining vesting at 25% every six months. The exercise price was fixed at the minimum allowable price by the TSX Venture Exchange policies. The options, granted in accordance with the provisions of the Company's stock option plan, are subject to the TSX Venture Exchange policies and the applicable securities laws. Of the Options granted, 41.1% were to Directors, 30.3% to Officers and 28.7% to Employees/Consultants of the Company.
About VVC Resources
VVC engages in the exploration, development, and management of natural resources - specializing in scarce and increasingly valuable materials needed to meet the growing, high-tech demands of industries such as manufacturing, technology, medicine, space travel, and the expanding green economy. Our portfolio includes a diverse set of multi-asset, high-growth projects, comprising: Helium & industrial gas production in western U.S.; Copper & associated metals operations in northern Mexico; and Strategic investments in carbon sequestration and other green energy technologies. VVC is a Canada-based, publicly-traded company on the TSXV (TSX-V:VVC). To learn more, visit our website at: www.vvcresources.com .
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Michel J. Lafrance, Secretary-Treasurer
For further information, please contact:
Patrick Fernet - (514) 631-2727
E-mail: pfernet@vvcexploration.com
Emily Bigelow - (615) 504-4621
E-mail: emily@vvcresources.com
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
Update on Syracuse Project and Spudding of Josephine Mack 1-18 Well
VVC Exploration Corporation, dba VVC Resources, ("VVC") or (the "Company"), (TSX-V:VVC and OTCQC:VVCVF) announces the completion of Levens 4-31 well in the Syracuse Project as well as the commencement of drilling activities at the Josephine Mack 1-18 well, marking the initiation of the Company's first test well within the Stockholm Project located in Wallace County, Kansas.
Progress In Syracuse Project With Completion of Levens 4-31
The Company has finished the completion work of Levens 4-31, bringing the total number of producing wells in the Syracuse Project to five. The Company is committed to completing three more wells in Syracuse.
Spudding of Josephine Mack 1-18 Well
On May 31st, drilling crews broke ground with the spudding of Josephine Mack 1-18. Spudding is the process of beginning to drill a well in the oil and gas industry, marking the start of the actual drilling operation. This well represents the first exploratory effort under the Stockholm Project's scope, targeting the Morrow Zone at a proposed depth of 5,300 feet. This initiative underscores VVC's strategic entry into this geologically promising region. The Company has positioned the Josephine Mack 1-18 to thoroughly evaluate the hydrocarbon potential of the Morrow Zone.
Exploration Strategy and Economic Significance
The Company's Stockholm Project is in the Morrow Zone, known for its stratigraphy and potential as a hydrocarbon reservoir. The data from the Josephine Mack 1-18 well will help determine the feasibility of further development in this area. This project is located an hour north of the Syracuse Project, which will allow the Company to utilize existing relationships with favorable vendors and operators.
Jim Culver, CEO & President of VVC, stated, "The initiation of drilling at the Josephine Mack 1-18 well is the logical next step in broadening our operational footprint, particularly within the promising economic Morrow Zone of Kansas."
A Continued Commitment to Sustainable Practices
VVC remains dedicated to environmentally responsible practices. The Company's operations are conducted with the utmost regard to ensuring sustainability, minimal environmental impact and adherence to the highest industry standards and best practices.
About VVC Resources
VVC engages in the exploration, development, and management of natural resources - specializing in scarce and increasingly valuable materials needed to meet the growing, high-tech demands of industries such as manufacturing, technology, medicine, space travel, and the expanding green economy. Our portfolio includes a diverse set of multi-asset, high-growth projects, comprising: Helium & industrial gas production in western U.S.; Copper & associated metals operations in northern Mexico; and Strategic investments in carbon sequestration and other green energy technologies. VVC is a Canada-based, publicly-traded company on the TSXV (TSX-V:VVC) and on the OTC Market (OTCQB:VVCVF). To learn more, visit our website at: www.vvcresources.com .
| On behalf of the Board of Directors | |
| Michel J. Lafrance, Secretary-Treasurer | |
| For further information, please contact: | |
| Patrick Fernet - (514) 631-2727 (FR) | or Emily Bigelow - (615) 504-4621 (EN) |
| E-mail: pfernet@vvcexploration.com | E-mail: info@vvcresources.com |
| Emily@VVCResources.com |
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
2369 Kingston Road, PO Box 28059 Terry Town, Scarborough, ON M1N 4E7 – Tel: 416-619-5304
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
Rework of a Pre-Existing Oil Well in Southwest Kansas
VVC Exploration Corporation, dba VVC Resources, ("VVC") or (the "Company"), (TSX-V:VVC and OTCQC:VVCVF) announces the rework of a pre-existing oil well in southwest Kansas as a test for oil production in the region.
Initiation of Ardery Oil Well Rework
Building on its experience in natural resource management, especially recent work in Kansas, VVC has leveraged its subsurface mineral rights to examine the feasibility of oil production in an area where the Company is already involved in helium and natural gas production. Through geological due diligence, VVC has confirmed the potential for oil production within the area. This confirmation aligns with historic data indicating over 12 million barrels of oil production directly north of Ardery well site.
Operational Strategy and Zonal Potential
The Ardery test is distinguished by its multi-zone production potential, comprising the Morrow Sandstone and the underlying St. Louis Limestone "B" & "C" zones. This project, if successful will enhance the economic outlook of VVC's Kansas projects.
Jim Culver, CEO & President of VVC, stated, "The initiation of the Ardery oil well rework offers significant opportunity for VVC to test the potential for oil production in the areas where the Company is involved with helium and natural gas exploration and production at a relatively low cost."
A Continued Commitment to Sustainable Practices
VVC remains dedicated to environmentally responsible practices. The Company's operations are conducted with the utmost regard to ensuring sustainability, minimal environmental impact and adherence to the highest industry standards and best practices.
About VVC Resources
VVC engages in the exploration, development, and management of natural resources - specializing in scarce and increasingly valuable materials needed to meet the growing, high-tech demands of industries such as manufacturing, technology, medicine, space travel, and the expanding green economy. Our portfolio includes a diverse set of multi-asset, high-growth projects, comprising: Helium & industrial gas production in western U.S.; Copper & associated metals operations in northern Mexico; and Strategic investments in carbon sequestration and other green energy technologies. VVC is a Canada-based, publicly-traded company on the TSXV (TSX-V:VVC) and on the OTC Market (OTCQB:VVCVF). To learn more, visit our website at: www.vvcresources.com .
| On behalf of the Board of Directors | |||
| Michel J. Lafrance, Secretary-Treasurer | |||
| For further information, please contact: | |||
| Patrick Fernet - (514) 631-2727 (FR) | or | Emily Bigelow - (615) 504-4621 (EN) | |
| E-mail: pfernet@vvcexploration.com | E-mail: info@vvcresources.com | ||
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
2369 Kingston Road, PO Box 28059 Terry Town, Scarborough, ON M1N 4E7 – Tel: 416-619-5304
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
Update on Syracuse Gas Gathering & Saltwater Disposal System
VVC Exploration Corporation, dba VVC Resources, ("VVC") or (the "Company"), (TSX-V:VVC and OTCQC:VVCVF) announces the following update on its ongoing Syracuse HeliumNatural Gas Project in Kansas:
Completion and Operational Status of Syracuse Gas Gathering System
The Company has completed and is operating its Syracuse Gas Gathering system. This state-of-the-art pipeline infrastructure is designed to service the entire 16,000-acre project and is pivotal in the Company's ability to efficiently market its natural gas. Now that the core system is in place, only lateral lines will need to be added to this system. The system facilitates a robust connection to the Tumbleweed pipeline, where the Company has secured a sale contract for helium, natural gas, and other valuable natural gas liquids. The operationalization of this system underscores the Company's commitment to leveraging advanced technologies for optimized resource management and market responsiveness.
Completion of Saltwater Disposal System and Enhancement of Economics
Furthering its dedication to sustainable and economical operations, the Company is pleased to report the completion of its saltwater disposal system. This system represents a significant step forward in the Company's natural gas development strategy. This saltwater disposal system results in a higher profitability per well and reflects the Company's approach in ensuring economic efficiency in its operations.
VVC President Jim Culver commented, "The operational commencement of the Syracuse Gas Gathering System and the completion of our saltwater disposal system are key drivers in bolstering VVC's Syracuse Project profitability. These advancements significantly reduce operational expenses and enhance potential profitability of the Syracuse Project, underpinning VVC's strategy. "
Addition of John Virgil to the Leadership Team
VVC Resources has announced the appointment of John Virgil to direct all helium and natural gas project engineering. John Virgil brings a wealth of experience and expertise in project management and will play a crucial role in steering the Syracuse Project and the success of additional projects in Western Kansas. John will report to Bill Kerrigan, who will now be able to focus on the development of VVC's additional helium and natural gas projects, further strengthening our project portfolio and driving our strategic objectives forward.
A Continued Commitment to Sustainable Practices
VVC remains dedicated to environmentally responsible practices. The Company's operations are conducted with the utmost regard to ensuring sustainability, minimal environmental impact and adherence to the highest industry standards and best practices.
About VVC Resources
VVC engages in the exploration, development, and management of natural resources - specializing in scarce and increasingly valuable materials needed to meet the growing, high-tech demands of industries such as manufacturing, technology, medicine, space travel, and the expanding green economy. Our portfolio includes a diverse set of multi-asset, high-growth projects, comprising: Helium & industrial gas production in western U.S.; Copper & associated metals operations in northern Mexico; and Strategic investments in carbon sequestration and other green energy technologies. VVC is a Canada-based, publicly-traded company on the TSXV (TSX-V:VVC) and on the OTC Market (OTCQB:VVCVF). To learn more, visit our website at: www.vvcresources.com .
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Michel J. Lafrance, Secretary-Treasurer
| For further information, please contact: | ||||
| Patrick Fernet - (514) 631-2727 | or | Emily Bigelow - (615) 504-4621 | ||
| E-mail: pfernet@vvcexploration.com | E-mail: info@vvcresources.com | |||
Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
2369 Kingston Road, PO Box 28059 Terry Town, Scarborough, ON M1N 4E7 – Tel: 416-619-5304
News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia
Update on Syracuse Helium/Natural Gas Project
VVC Exploration Corporation, dba VVC Resources, ("VVC") or (the "Company"), (TSX-V:VVC and OTCQC:VVCVF) announces the following update on its ongoing Syracuse HeliumNatural Gas Project in Kansas:
Successful Production Commencement at Durler 2-21
Following our previous announcement on November 16, 2023, we are pleased to report that the Durler 2-21 well has transitioned from successful completion to active production. This milestone signifies a stable economic output, marking Durler 2-21 a key contributor in the Company's portfolio. The well's performance continues to be closely monitored and adjusted to optimize its output and efficiency. The objective of the optimization is to reach the maximum stable production level without negatively impacting total production of the well. The gas quality is as expected: helium content is 1.2%, natural gas content is 35.949%, with a heat content of 438 BTU.
Hodgson 1-17 & C Double D 1-16: Completion and Analysis Phase
The Hodgson 1-17 & C Double D 1-16 wells are now completed and producing. These two wells are in the output analysis phase. This stage is crucial for understanding the wells' production capacities, optimal settings for both immediate and long-term production and potential contributions to the overall project.
Preparations Complete for Levens 4-31, Weaver 1-15, T Spiker 1-7
The team has also readied the Levens 4-31, Weaver 1-15, and T Spiker 1-7 wells for completion. Next steps for these wells await the analysis of the Durler, Hodgson and C Double wells. Each helium/natural gas project has its idiosyncrasies and every time a new well is completed, introduced into production, and optimized, the more information the team has for the next wells. This thorough preparatory plan and step by step optimization of these wells increases the probability for successful integration into the production line-up, at the most reasonable cost, underscoring the team's commitment to thoughtful strategic growth and resource optimization.
VVC President Jim Culver commented, "While the process may seem unusually deliberate, every time a well is drilled, perforated, or completed in the Syracuse Project, the more information the team gains about how to succeed with the next well or wells. This knowledge gives us a better chance of optimum success for the whole project."
A Continued Commitment to Sustainable Practices
VVC remains dedicated to environmentally responsible practices. The Company's operations are conducted with the utmost regard to ensuring sustainability, minimal environmental impact and adherence to the highest industry standards and best practices.
About VVC Resources
VVC engages in the exploration, development, and management of natural resources - specializing in scarce and increasingly valuable materials needed to meet the growing, high-tech demands of industries such as manufacturing, technology, medicine, space travel, and the expanding green economy. Our portfolio includes a diverse set of multi-asset, high-growth projects, comprising: Helium & industrial gas production in western U.S.; Copper & associated metals operations in northern Mexico; and Strategic investments in carbon sequestration and other green energy technologies. VVC is a Canada-based, publicly-traded company on the TSXV (TSX-V:VVC) and on the OTC Market (OTCQB:VVCVF). To learn more, visit our website at: www.vvcresources.com .
| On behalf of the Board of Directors | ||
| Michel J. Lafrance, Secretary-Treasurer | ||
| For further information, please contact: | ||
| Patrick Fernet - (514) 631-2727 | or | Emily Bigelow - (615) 504-4621 |
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Osisko Metals
Investor Insight
Osisko Metals’ high-quality copper and zinc assets present a compelling investment opportunity amid a rapidly expanding critical and base metals market. North America is continuing to prioritize domestic mineral supply chains, and Osisko Metals is well-positioned with its two brownfield, past-producing assets in Canada: the Gaspé Copper project and the Pine Point zinc-lead project.
Overview
Osisko Metals (TSXV:OM,OTC:OMZNF,FRANKFURT: 0B51) is an exploration and development company focusing on two base metal assets in Canada – Gaspé Copper and Pine Point – targeting copper and zinc, both critical minerals necessary for the global transition to clean energy. These assets are past-producing, brownfield projects of significant potential for future production.
The Gaspé Copper project in Québec has a rapid development plan to begin mining the indicated resource of 824 million tons (Mt) of ore grading 0.34 percent copper equivalent. As the gap between available copper supply and growing demand widens, Osisko Metals is well-positioned to help create and strengthen a domestic supply chain for the North American market.
The company’s Pine Point zinc-lead project in the Northwest Territories contains an indicated mineral resource estimate of 49.5 Mt at 4.22 percent zinc and 1.49 percent lead, in addition to significant inferred resources. Zinc is a necessary mineral for the clean energy transition and has important applications throughout the manufacturing industry. This widespread use of zinc has analysts cautioning about a looming supply shortage.
A preliminary economic assessment (PEA) completed in 2022 indicates the Pine Point project has the potential to become a world-class, high-grade zinc asset, with an after-tax net present value (NPV) of C$602 million and internal rate of return (IRR) of 25 percent. A feasibility study is now fully underway, and is expected to be completed in 2025.
In February 2023, Osisko Metals announced a C$100-million investment agreement with Appian Natural Resources Fund III for a joint venture on the Pine Point project. The agreement includes C$75.3 million of funding for the project and up to C$24.7 million in cash payments to Osisko Metals. In February 2024, Osisko Metals sold an additional 5 percent ownership interest in Pine Point Mining to a subsidiary of Appian for approximately C$8.33 million. Appian now has the right to earn up to 65 percent of the project, with Osisko Metals retaining 35 percent.
Pine Point Mining and the Town of Hay River have also signed a memorandum of understanding to seize opportunities for long-term sustainable growth for Hay River through the development and operations of the Pine Point mining project.
Led by a management team with a wide range of expertise throughout the natural resources industry and experience in geology, exploration, corporate finance and corporate administration, Osisko Metals is well-poised to become a world-class supplier of base metals.
Company Highlights
- Osisko Metals (OM) is focused on becoming a significant base metals producer by bringing two past-producing Canadian brownfield assets back into production: the Gaspé Copper project in Québec and the Pine Point zinc-lead project in the Northwest Territories.
- OM’s 100-percent-owned Gaspé Copper project is advancing rapidly with a fully funded 110,000-metre 2025 drill program and the goal of converting and expanding its large-scale NI 43-101 resource base.
- Copper Mountain hosts the largest undeveloped copper asset in Eastern North America, with an in-pit indicated resource of 824 million tonnes (Mt) grading 0.34 percent copper equivalent (CuEq) and an inferred resource of 670 Mt grading 0.38 percent CuEq. The resource contains 4.91 billion pounds of copper, 274 million pounds of molybdenum, and 46 million ounces of silver.
- The Pine Point project has the potential to become a top-ten global zinc producer, supported by updated 2024 resource estimates and a positive PEA. It is operated through a joint venture with Appian Natural Resources Fund III, which has the right to earn up to 65 percent of the project.
- A C$100-million investment agreement with Appian includes C$75.3 million in project funding and allows for a staged increase in Appian’s ownership. Osisko Metals retains a 35 percent interest.
- The 2022 PEA for Pine Point returned an after-tax IRR of 25 percent and an NPV (8 percent) of C$602 million, with clean, high-grade zinc and lead concentrates appealing to global smelters.
- Osisko Metals is backed by strategic and institutional shareholders including Glencore, Appian, Franco-Nevada, Gold Fields, CDPQ and a major Canadian mining company.
- A highly experienced management team with a successful track record of discovery, development and value creation is leading Osisko Metals’ transformation into a leading North American base metals developer.
Key Projects
Gaspé Copper Project
The Gaspé Copper project in Québec is among the most significant copper development projects in eastern North America. Osisko Metals completed the 100-percent acquisition of Gaspé Copper in July 2023 and has since launched a fully funded, 110,000-metre drill program. Québec is consistently ranked as a top-tier mining jurisdiction with supportive permitting processes and access to infrastructure.
Project Highlights:
- Significant Mineral Resource Estimate: The current NI 43-101 mineral resource estimate (effective November 2024) outlines an in-pit indicated resource of 824 Mt grading 0.34 percent copper equivalent and an inferred resource of 670 Mt grading 0.38 percent copper equivalent. Contained metals include 4.91 billion pounds of copper, 274 million pounds of molybdenum, and 46 million ounces of silver.
- Promising Metallurgy: Metallurgical testing demonstrates copper recoveries of 92 to 94 percent and molybdenum recoveries of 65 to 70 percent. The copper concentrate grades range from 24 to 28 percent, while molybdenum concentrate grades reach 59 percent. Payable silver credits are included in the copper concentrate. Osisko Metals has a copper offtake agreement in place with Glencore.
- Prolific Past Production: The historic Gaspé mine produced more than 141 Mt at 0.9 percent copper between 1955 and 1999 through both underground and open-pit mining. The site has undergone over C$150 million in reclamation, creating a well-positioned brownfield development opportunity.
- Robust Infrastructure: The site benefits from year-round road access, on-site hydroelectric power, proximity (under 100 km) to a deep-sea port in Gaspé, and remaining legacy infrastructure, including oxide stockpiles, administration buildings and a water treatment facility.
- 2025 Drill Program: The 110,000-metre drill campaign initiated in February 2025 targets both infill and expansion zones. Goals include upgrading inferred resources, extending mineralization up to 250 meters below the current pit shell, testing areas toward Needle East Mountain, and better delineating high-grade skarn zones (grading 0.5 to 3.0 percent copper). Recent results include:
- Drill hole 30-1090 – 279.0 meters averaging 0.49 percent copper and 108.0 meters averaging 0.84 percent copper
Drill hole 30-1075 – 258.0 meters averaging 0.33 percent copper including 15.6 meters averaging 1.47 percent copper
- Drill hole 30-1090 – 279.0 meters averaging 0.49 percent copper and 108.0 meters averaging 0.84 percent copper
- Wide zones of new mineralization intersected southeast of the Copper Mountain pit, including skarn-hosted copper zones supporting potential for future resource expansion
- Copper Mountain Updated MRE: The latest resource estimate (Fall 2024) reflects a 53 percent increase in copper-equivalent content in the indicated category and a 100-fold increase in the inferred category compared to prior reports. A high-grade sub-resource of 520 Mt grading 0.54 percent copper equivalent has also been identified at higher cut-off grades.
- 2025–2028 Work Program: The plan includes the ongoing drill campaign, environmental and socio-economic impact assessments, a PEA in 2026, and a feasibility study in 2027. Permitting and public hearings are targeted for 2029, followed by financing and construction in 2030–2031, and potential production start-up in 2032.
- Acquisition of New Claims: In December 2024, Osisko Metals acquired 199 additional mineral claims adjacent to the Gaspé Copper property, expanding the project’s exploration footprint in a highly prospective area.
Pine Point Zinc-Lead Project
The Pine Point asset in the Northwest Territories is a brownfield site with legacy infrastructure and a clear path toward redevelopment. The site is supported by an on-site hydroelectric substation, paved access roads, and proximity to rail and port infrastructure.
Project Highlights:
- Joint Venture: Pine Point Mining, the project operator, is governed under a joint venture between Osisko Metals and Appian Natural Resources Fund III. The C$100-million agreement includes C$75.3 million in project funding and additional cash payments. In February 2024, Osisko Metals sold an additional 5 percent interest to Appian for C$8.33 million. Appian may earn up to 65 percent ownership; Osisko Metals retains 35 percent.
- High-grade Clean Concentrates: The project is expected to produce exceptionally clean zinc and lead concentrates, as confirmed by recent metallurgical testing. XRT sorting and flotation achieved recoveries of 87 percent for zinc and 93 percent for lead. Low deleterious element levels make Pine Point’s product highly attractive to smelters seeking premium concentrates.
- Promising Economics: The 2022 PEA outlines an average annual life-of-mine production of 329 million pounds of zinc and 141 million pounds of lead. It projects an after-tax NPV (8 percent) of C$602 million and an IRR of 25 percent. Estimated dewatering volumes were reduced by 30 percent compared to the 2020 PEA.
- 2024 Updated Mineral Resource Estimate:
- Indicated: 49.5 Mt grading 4.22 percent zinc and 1.49 percent lead (5.52 percent zinc equivalent), containing 4.6 billion lbs of zinc and 1.6 billion lbs of lead
- Inferred: 8.3 Mt grading 4.18 percent zinc and 1.69 percent lead (5.64 percent zinc equivalent), containing 0.7 billion lbs of zinc and 0.3 billion lbs of lead
- East Mill, Central, and North zones collectively hold ~36.2 Mt of indicated resources grading 5.22 percent zinc equivalent
- Community Support: Pine Point Mining Limited has secured support through collaboration agreements with Deninu K’ue First Nation and the Northwest Territory Métis Nation, and continues to work under a 2017 exploration agreement with K’atl’odeeche First Nation. A memorandum of understanding was signed in November 2024 with the Town of Hay River to promote long-term economic benefits and local participation.
Management Team
Robert Wares – Chief Executive Officer
A professional geologist with over 35 years of experience, Robert Wares co-founded Osisko Mining and led the discovery of the Canadian Malartic mine. He is a co-recipient of the PDAC’s “Prospector of the Year” (2007) and serves on the board of Brunswick Exploration.
John Burzynski – Executive Chairman
John Burzynski was CEO of Osisko Mining and led the discovery and sale of the Windfall project to Gold Fields for C$2.2 billion. He also co-founded Osisko Gold Royalties and helped develop Canadian Malartic. He is a fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, and is a co-recipient of the PDAC’s “Prospector of the Year” (2007)
Don Njegovan – President
Don Njegovan has over 30 years of experience in mining and capital markets. Formerly COO at Osisko Mining, he has also served as managing director, global mining at Scotiabank, and sits on the board of Cornish Metals.
Blair Zaritsky – Chief Financial Officer
BA CPA with over 20 years of experience, Blair Zaritsky was previously CFO of Osisko Mining. He has extensive audit and financial management experience with public companies listed on Canadian exchanges.
Amanda Johnston – Vice-president, Finance
Amanda Johnston is a CPA with more than two decades in the mining and audit sectors. She previously served as VP finance at Osisko Mining and is currently a director of Metalla Royalty & Streaming.
Alexandria Marcotte – Vice-president, Exploration
A registered P.Geo. in Ontario, Alexandria Marcotte has 15+ years of international experience in senior geological roles. She holds an Honours B.Sc. in Geology and an MBA from Schulich School of Business and currently serves as a director of Angel Wing Metals.
Lili Mance – Vice-president & Corporate Secretary
Lili Mance has 30 years of legal, compliance, and governance experience in the resource and financial sectors. She served as corporate secretary at Osisko Mining and is a long-standing member of the Governance Professionals of Canada.
Ann Lamontagne – Vice-president, Environment & Sustainable Development
A civil engineer with a Ph.D. in mining environment, Ann Lamontagne brings over 25 years of environmental consulting and permitting expertise, including work with Nouveau Monde Graphite and Troilus Gold.
Killian Charles – Strategic Advisor
President and CEO of Brunswick Exploration, Killian Charles previously led corporate development at Osisko Metals and worked as a mining analyst. He holds a degree in Earth & Planetary Sciences from McGill University.
Luc Lessard – Technical Advisor
Luc Lessard is a mining engineer with over 30 years of experience in construction and operation of major mines. He is CEO of Falco Resources and COO of Osisko Development, and played key roles in building Canadian Malartic.
What Was the Highest Price for Copper?
Why is copper so expensive in 2025? Higher copper prices over the past few years have largely been attributed to a widening supply/demand gap. The already tenuous copper supply picture was made worse by COVID-19 lockdowns, and as the world's largest economies seemingly began to emerge from the pandemic, demand for the metal picked up once again. Copper mining and refining activities simply haven’t kept up with the rebound in economic activity.
Now, global copper mine supply is tightening at a time when US President Donald Trump's tariffs are placing further strains on copper supply. In response, a new copper all time high was reached in July 2025. But what was the highest price for copper? The Investing News Network (INN) will answer that question, but first let’s take a deeper look at what factors drove the price of copper higher, as well as historical movements in the price of copper.
In this article
What key factors drive the price of copper?
Robust demand has long been one of the strongest factors driving copper prices. The ever-growing number of copper uses in everyday life — from building construction and electrical grids to electronic products and home appliances — make it the world’s third most-consumed metal.
Copper’s anti-corrosive and highly conductive properties are why it’s the go-to metal for the construction industry, and it's used in products such as copper pipes and copper wiring. In fact, construction is responsible for nearly half of global copper consumption. Rising demand for new homes and home renovations in both Asian and Western economies is expected to support copper prices in the long term.
In recent decades, copper price spikes have been strongly tied to rising demand from China as the economic powerhouse injects government-backed funding into new housing and infrastructure. Industrial production and construction activity in the Asian nation have been like rocket fuel for copper prices.
Additionally, copper’s conductive properties are increasingly being sought after for use in renewable energy applications, including thermal, hydro, wind and solar energy.
However, the biggest driver of copper consumption in the renewable energy sector is rising global demand for electric vehicles (EVs), EV charging infrastructure and energy storage applications. As governments push forward with transportation network electrification and energy storage initiatives as a means to combat climate change, copper demand from this segment is expected to surge.
New energy vehicles use significantly more copper than internal combustion engine vehicles, which only contain about 22 kilograms of copper. In comparison, hybrid EVs use an average of 40 kilograms, plug-in hybrid EVs use 55 kilograms, battery EVs use 80 kilograms and battery electric buses use 253 kilograms.
In 2024, EV sales worldwide increased by 25 percent over 2023 to come in at about 17.1 million units, and analysts at Rho Motion expect that trend to continue in the coming years despite some headwinds in the near-term. Already in the first five months of 2025, EV sales were up 28 percent over the same period in the previous year.
On the supply side of the copper market, the world’s largest copper mines are facing depleting high-grade copper resources, while over the last decade or more new copper discoveries have become few and far between.
The pandemic made the situation worse as mining activities in several top copper-producing countries faced work stoppages and copper companies delayed investments in further exploration and development — a challenging problem considering it can take as many as 10 to 20 years to move a project from discovery to production. In addition, delayed investments amid the pandemic will also have long-term repercussions for copper supply.
There have also been ongoing production issues at major copper mines, most notably the shutdown in late 2023 of First Quantum Minerals' (TSX:FM,OTC Pink:FQVLF) Cobre Panama mine, which accounted for about 350,000 MT of the world's annual copper production.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) is forecasting a 30 percent shortfall in the amount of copper needed to meet demand by 2035. “This will be a major challenge. It’s time to sound the alarm,” IEA Executive Director Fatih Birol said.
The supply shortage has increased the need for end users to turn to the copper scrap market to make up for the supply shortage. Sometimes referred to as “the world’s largest copper mine,” recycled copper scrap contributes significantly to supplying and balancing the copper market.
Eleni Joannides, Wood Mackenzie's research director for copper, told INN by email at the end of Q4 2024 that there is recognition of the underinvestment in copper exploration, but she sees a new dawn emerging for the sector.
“We are seeing signs this could change. Much of the growth over the last five years has come from brownfield expansions rather than greenfield/new discoveries," she said. "Technology will likely help increase the chance of discovery, and broadly I would say that policymakers are now more supportive of mineral exploration as the push to secure critical raw materials supply has moved up the agenda."
Joannides offered some examples of greenfield projects in the pipeline: Capstone Copper’s (TSX:CS,OTC Pink:CSCCF) Santo Domingo in Chile, Southern Copper’s (NYSE:SCCO) Tia Maria in Peru and Teck Resources' (TSX:TECK.A,TECK.B,NYSE:TECK) Zafranal in Peru.
How has the copper price moved historically?
Taking a look back at historical price action, the copper price has had a wild ride for more than two decades.
Sitting at US$1.38 per pound in late January 2005, the copper price followed global economic growth up to a high of US$3.91 in April 2008. Of course, the global economic crisis of 2008 soon led to a copper crash that left the metal at only US$1.29 by the end of year.
Once the global economy began to recover in 2011, copper prices posted a new record high of US$4.58 per pound at the start of the year. However, this high was short-lived as the copper price began a five year downward trend, bottoming out at around US$1.95 in early 2016.
Copper prices stayed fairly flat over the next four years, moving in a range of US$2.50 to US$3 per pound.
20 year copper price performance.
Chart via Macrotrends.
The pandemic’s impact on mine supply and refined copper in 2020 pushed prices higher despite the economic slowdown. The copper price climbed from a low of US$2.17 in March to close out the year at US$3.52.
In 2021, signs of economic recovery and supercharged interest in EVs and renewable energy pushed the price of copper to rally higher and higher. Copper topped US$4.90 per pound for the first time ever on May 10, 2021, before falling back to close at US$4.76.
Also affecting the copper price at that time was expectations for higher copper demand amid supply concerns out of two of the world’s major copper producers: Chile and Peru. In late April 2021, port workers in Chile called for a strike, while in Peru presidential candidate Pedro Castillo proposed nationalizing mining and redrafting the country’s constitution.
In early May 2021, news broke that copper inventories were at their lowest point in 15 years. Expert market watchers such as Bank of America commodity strategist Michael Widmer warned that further inventory declines into 2022 could lead to a copper market deficit.
After climbing to start 2022 at US$4.52, the copper price continued to spike on economic recovery expectations and supply shortages to reach US$5.02 per pound on March 6. Throughout the first quarter, fears of supply chain disruptions and historically low stockpiles amid rising copper demand drove prices higher.
However, copper prices pulled back in mid-2022 on worries that further COVID-19 lockdowns in China, as well as a growing mortgage crisis, would slow down construction and infrastructure activity in the Asian nation. Rising inflation and interest hikes by the Fed also placed downward pressure on a wide basket of commodities, including copper. By late July 2022, copper prices were trading down at nearly a two year low of around US$3.30.
In the early months of 2023 the copper price was trading over the US$4 per pound level after receiving a helpful boost from continuing concerns about low copper inventories, signs of rebounding demand from China, and news about the closure of Peru's Las Bambas mine, which accounts for 2 percent of global copper production.
However, that boost turned to a bust in the second half of 2023 as China continued to experience real estate sector issues, alongside the economic woes of the rest of the world. The price of copper dropped to a low for the year of US$3.56 per pound in mid October.
Elevated supply levels kept copper trading in the US$3.50 to US$3.80 range for much of Q1 2024 before experiencing strong gains that pushed the price of the red metal to US$4.12 on March 18.
Those gains were attributed to in part to tighter copper concentrate supply following the closure of First Quantum Minerals' Cobre Panama mine, guidance cuts from Anglo American (LSE:AAL,OTCQX:AAUKF) and declining production at Chile’s Chuquicamata mine. In addition, China’s top copper smelters announced production cuts after limited supply led to lower profits from treatment and refining charges.
BHP's (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BHP) attempted takeover of Anglo American also stoked fears of even tighter global copper mine supply. These supply-side challenges continued to juice copper prices in Q2 2024, causing a jump of nearly 29 percent from US$4.04 per pound on April 1 to a then all-time high of US$5.20 by May 20, 2024.
What was the highest price for copper ever?
The price of copper reached its highest recorded price of US$5.72 per pound, or US$12,610 per metric ton, on July 8, 2025. The red metal’s price surged more than 13 percent from July 7 to its new all time high. Read on to found out how the copper price reached those heights.
Why did the copper price hit an all-time high in 2025?
After starting 2025 at US$3.99 per pound, copper prices were lifted in Q1 by increasing demand from China’s economic stimulus measures, renewable energy and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies and stockpiling brought on by fear of US President Trump’s tariff threats.
At the time, Trump had said the US was considering placing tariffs of up to 25 percent on all copper imports in a bid to spark increased domestic production of the base metal.
In late February, he signed an executive order instructing the US Commerce Department to investigate whether imported copper poses a national security risk under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. The price of copper reached a new high price of US$5.24 per pound on March 26 as tariff tensions escalated.
Trump's tariff talk sparked yet another copper price rally to set its new record high price in early July when he announced he plans to impose a 50 percent tariff on all imports of the red metal.
Looking at the bigger picture, copper’s rally in recent years has encouraged bullish sentiment on prices looking ahead. In the longer term, the fundamentals for copper are expected to get tighter as demand increases from sectors such as EVs and energy storage. A May 2024 report from the International Energy Forum (IEF) projects that as many as 194 new copper mines may need to come online by 2050 to support massive demand from the global energy transition.
Looking over to renewable energy, according to the Copper Development Association, solar installations require about 5.5 MT of copper for every megawatt, while onshore wind turbines require 3.52 MT of copper and offshore wind turbines require 9.56 MT of copper.
The rise of AI technology is also bolstering the demand outlook for copper. Commodities trader Trafigura has said AI-driven data centers could add one million MT to copper demand by 2030, reports Reuters.
Where can investors look for copper opportunities?
Copper market fundamentals suggest a return to a bull market cycle for the red metal in the medium-term. The copper supply/demand imbalance also presents an investment opportunity for those interested in copper-mining stocks.
Are there any copper companies on your radar? If you’re looking for some inspiration, head on over to INN's articles on the top copper stocks on the TSX and TSXV, the biggest copper stocks on the ASX, and our list of 27 advanced US copper projects to watch.
If you're looking to diversify your portfolio with other investment options, check out copper ETFS and ETNs or copper futures contracts. Investor and author Gianni Kovacevic told INN in a December 2024 interview that one of the ways he is playing copper under Trump's second term is with copper stocks such as Coppernico Metals (TSX:COPR), Entree Resources (TSX:ETG,OTCQB:ERLFF) and Horizon Copper (TSXV:HCU,OTCQX:HNCUF).
This is an updated version of an article first published by the Investing News Network in 2021.
Don’t forget to follow us @INN_Resource for real-time news updates!
Securities Disclosure: I, Melissa Pistilli, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.
Editorial Disclosure: The Investing News Network does not guarantee the accuracy or thoroughness of the information reported in the interviews it conducts. The opinions expressed in these interviews do not reflect the opinions of the Investing News Network and do not constitute investment advice. All readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence.
Empire Metals Limited Announces Team Expansion & Bulk Met Testing Commences
Highlights
- Strategic Appointments to Accelerate Development
Empire has appointed Mr. Alan Rubio as Study Manager and Mr. Pocholo Aviso as Hydro-metallurgist. These appointments are aligned with the Company's objective to evaluate mining scenarios, optimise product development, assess commercial process flowsheet options and progress the Project toward a feasibility study. - Mr. Alan Rubio, an engineer and seasoned Study and Project Manager with over 28 years' experience working within the resources sector developing and evaluating mining projects, will lead the assessment of mining, infrastructure and oversee key economic studies to deliver a robust project development plan.
- Mr. Pocholo Aviso, an experienced hydro-metallurgist with a background in the TiO₂ pigment industry (including roles at Tronox and BHP's Kwinana Nickel Refinery), will manage the titanium product development programme, focusing on product optimisation, process flowsheet designs and evaluating market pathways.
- Partnership with Strategic Metallurgy Pty Ltd:
Empire has also partnered with Strategic Metallurgy, a highly respected, Perth-based metallurgical consultancy. The firm will provide oversight of the metallurgical testwork programme and technical guidance to the Company's internal metallurgists and process design engineers, helping transition from bench-scale process development to pilot-scale testing.
- Bulk-Scale Testwork:
The Company has commenced bulk metallurgical testwork that will produce significant quantities of mineral concentrate to support large-scale beneficiation testing and, for the first time, enable the supply of bulk product samples to prospective end users. In addition, this testwork will provide critical technical information for the development of a commercial process flowsheet.
These key appointments advance the Company toward confirming project economics and assessing mine design, process flowsheets and product options-critical steps in the development pathway to commercial mine production.
Commenting on the announcement, Shaun Bunn, Managing Director, said:
"I am delighted to welcome Alan and Pocholo to our team. Their technical expertise will be invaluable as we move toward defining the economic potential and product strategy for Pitfield. Building a strong in-house team has been key to our progress so far, and these appointments mark an important next step.
"We are also very pleased to be working with Strategic Metallurgy, whose reputation and experience in process development will significantly strengthen our metallurgical programme. The timing is ideal, with large-scale metallurgical testing now underway, including ore scrubbing and spiral gravity separation, using bulk samples collected earlier this year."
Process Development Update
A large-scale metallurgical testwork programme, involving mineral separation techniques that require bulk feed samples, between approximately 0.5 to 1.5 tonnes each, has commenced using the material collected from the February 2025 Air Core drilling. The programme includes ore scrubbing, desliming and gravity spiral testwork. Alternative gravity separation unit processes, such as jigs and up-current classifiers, are also being evaluated.
Flotation testwork is also being carried out on the fines fraction, separated in the desliming step. As part of this programme, bulk mineral concentrates will be produced for downstream processing, testing both hydrometallurgical and product finishing flowsheet concepts. This will allow a consistent, common mineral concentrate stream to be assessed across the range of flowsheet options that are being considered downstream of the mineral separation step.
Figure 1. Photos of bulk testwork programme showing clockwise from bottom left: deslimed feed sample, wet scrubber unit, and gravity spirals .
This bulk testwork programme will produce significant volumes of concentrates which will feed into beneficiation testwork and result in larger product samples which can be delivered to potential end users for assessment for the first time.
In addition, this programme is designed to assess different types of process equipment and analyse a variety of flowsheet options, resulting in technical information necessary for developing a commercial process flowsheet.
About Strategic Metallurgy
Strategic Metallurgy Pty Ltd, established in 2010, is a metallurgical consulting company whose business model is to work with mining companies to develop their metallurgical strategy and ensure that it fits into their overall business plan. With a proven track record of providing expert consulting, process development, testwork management, feasibilities and strategic reviews Strategic Metallurgy has the extensive hands-on experience that Empire requires to progress the Pitfield Project through the metallurgical testing, process modelling, flowsheet design stages to pilot plant design and operation.
The Pitfield Titanium Project
Located within the Mid-West region of Western Australia, near the northern wheatbelt town of Three Springs, the Pitfield titanium project lies 313km north of Perth and 156km southeast of Geraldton, the Mid West region's capital and major port. Western Australia is ranked as one of the top mining jurisdictions in the world according to the Fraser Institute's Investment Attractiveness Index published in 2023, and has mining-friendly policies, stable government, transparency, and advanced technology expertise. Pitfield has existing connections to port (both road & rail), HV power substations, and is nearby to natural gas pipelines (refer Figure 2).
Figure 2. Pitfield Project Location showing the Mid-West Region Infrastructure and Services.
Competent Person Statement
The scientific and technical information in this report that relates to process metallurgy is based on information reviewed by Ms Narelle Marriott, an employee of Empire Metals Australia Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Empire. Ms Marriott is a member of the AusIMM and has sufficient experience relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the JORC Code 2012. Ms. Marriott consents to the inclusion in this announcement of the matters based on their information in the form and context in which it appears.
The technical information in this report that relates to the geology and exploration of the Pitfield Project has been compiled by Mr Andrew Faragher, an employee of Empire Metals Australia Pty Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Empire. Mr. Faragher is a member of the AusIMM and has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration and to the activity being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the JORC Code 2012. Mr Faragher consents to the inclusion in this release of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.
Market Abuse Regulation (MAR) Disclosure
Certain information contained in this announcement would have been deemed inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014, as incorporated into UK law by the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, until the release of this announcement.
**ENDS**
For further information please visit www.empiremetals.co.uk or contact:
About Empire Metals Limited
Empire Metals is an AIM-listed and OTCQB-traded exploration and resource development company (LON:EEE)(OTCQB:EPMLF) with a primary focus on developing Pitfield, an emerging giant titanium project in Western Australia.
The high-grade titanium discovery at Pitfield is of unprecedented scale, with airborne surveys identifying a massive, coincident gravity and magnetics anomaly extending over 40km by 8km by 5km deep. Drill results have indicated excellent continuity in grades and consistency of the in-situ mineralised beds and confirm that the sandstone beds hold the higher-grade titanium dioxide (TiO₂) values within the interbedded succession of sandstones, siltstones and conglomerates. The Company is focused on two key prospects (Cosgrove and Thomas), which have been identified as having thick, high-grade, near-surface, in-situ bedded TiO₂ mineralisation, each being over 7km in strike length.
An Exploration Target* for Pitfield was declared in 2024, covering the Thomas and Cosgrove mineral prospects, and was estimated to contain between 26.4 to 32.2 billion tonnes with a grade range of 4.5 to 5.5% TiO2. Included within the total Exploration Target* is a subset that covers the in-situ weathered sandstone zone, which extends from surface to an average vertical depth of 30m to 40m and is estimated to contain between 4.0 to 4.9 billion tonnes with a grade range of 4.8 to 5.9% TiO2.
The Exploration Target* covers an area less than 20% of the overall mineral system at Pitfield which demonstrates the potential for significant further upside.
Empire is now accelerating the economic development of Pitfield, with a vision to produce a high-value titanium metal or pigment quality product at Pitfield, to realise the full value potential of this exceptional deposit.
The Company also has two further exploration projects in Australia; the Eclipse Project and the Walton Project in Western Australia, in addition to three precious metals projects located in a historically high-grade gold producing region of Austria.
*The potential quantity and grade of the Exploration Target is conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient exploration to estimate a Mineral Resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the estimation of a Mineral Resource. See RNS dated 12 June 2024 for full details.
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