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Interview with Nolas Paterson, CEO of Atlas Salt Inc.Recording date: 8th July 2025Atlas Salt (TSXV: SALT) presents a compelling value proposition for investors seeking exposure to North America's critical infrastructure mineral supply deficit through a strategically positioned, environmentally sustainable industrial mineral project. Under new CEO Nolan Peterson's leadership, the company is advancing the Great Atlantic Salt project in Newfoundland to address the continent's persistent 10-12 million ton annual deicing salt import dependency.The investment opportunity centers on Atlas Salt's unique positioning to capture market share in a $1.5-2.5 billion annual market characterized by exceptional stability and predictable demand growth. Unlike volatile commodity markets, deicing salt demonstrates consistent 2% annual price appreciation tracking inflation, with periodic 4-5% increases during severe winters that establish new pricing floors. Municipal customers cannot defer winter road maintenance, creating recession-resistant demand that positions salt as an essential infrastructure commodity rather than a cyclical material.The Great Atlantic Salt project's competitive advantages stem from superior geological and geographical positioning. The shallow 200-meter deposit depth enables cost-effective drift mining with conveyor systems, contrasting sharply with competing projects requiring expensive shaft mining at 500-600 meter depths. This fundamental advantage positions Atlas Salt at the lower end of the cost curve while foreign competitors face 3-4x longer shipping timeframes and associated logistics costs that erode their competitive positioning.Project economics demonstrate infrastructure-grade investment characteristics with 34+ years of production generating over $100 million annual free cash flow after tax. The 18.5% after-tax IRR and sub-five-year payback period reflect conservative modeling using bulk deicing salt pricing, providing upside potential through higher-margin retail applications and production optimization initiatives. When contextualized against gold equivalent metrics, the resource represents a 25-35 million ounce deposit, highlighting the project's substantial scale.Environmental leadership distinguishes Atlas Salt within the mining sector through 100% battery electric operations eliminating diesel usage, chemical processing, water consumption, and tailings generation. The operation will produce greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to just four Newfoundland households annually, positioning the company to benefit from increasing ESG investment focus while delivering superior returns through operational efficiency.Strategic infrastructure positioning provides additional competitive moats. Located 3km from deep-water port facilities on the Trans-Canada Highway, the project enables efficient distribution to major northeastern US and eastern Canadian markets. The proximity advantage becomes particularly pronounced during severe weather periods when import logistics face maximum constraints.The financing strategy leverages the project's industrial mineral characteristics to access infrastructure-focused debt providers typically unavailable to traditional mining projects. With total capital requirements of $480 million, Atlas Salt is engaging sovereign wealth funds and institutional lenders attracted to long-term, stable cash flow profiles. The phased development approach mitigates near-term financing pressure while enabling progressive project derisking.Market entry timing provides exceptional opportunity as no new North American salt mines have been constructed in 25-30 years despite growing import dependence. The 2.5 million ton production target represents approximately 25% of current import volumes, positioning Atlas Salt as a meaningful market participant without threatening established supply relationships.Advanced permitting status further derisks the investment proposition. The project has completed environmental assessment approval, eliminating a primary risk factor in Canadian mining development while benefiting from strong community support that reduces regulatory and social license risks.Atlas Salt represents a distinctive opportunity to participate in addressing North America's critical infrastructure mineral deficit while capturing stable, long-term cash flows characteristic of essential industrial minerals. The convergence of market necessity, strategic positioning, environmental leadership, and proven economics creates compelling investment dynamics rarely available in commodity markets.View Atlas Salt's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/atlas-saltSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Nurexone Biologic Inc (OTCQB: NRXBF) is a TSXV, OTCQB, and Frankfurt-listed biotech company focused on developing regenerative exosome-based therapies for central nervous system injuries. Lior Shaltiel, CEO of Nurexone Biologic, joins us today to share and explain Nurexone's innovative and promising research on its lead candidate, XOP10. View Podcast Transcript
Interview with Troy Boisjoli, CEO of ATHA Energy Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/atha-energy-tsxvsask-district-scale-uranium-discovery-potential-in-untested-basin-7260Recording date: 27th June 2025ATHA Energy Corp. (TSXV: SASK) has delivered significant exploration results from its Angilak Uranium Project in Nunavut, Canada, marking a pivotal breakthrough for the uranium exploration company. The results from the first two drill holes of their 2025 exploration program demonstrate both new discovery potential and continued expansion of their established resource base.The company's maiden drill hole at the KU Discovery Target successfully intersected uranium mineralization within the previously undrilled Angikuni Basin, validating years of systematic geological work. The hole intersected 7.1 meters of composite mineralization, including 0.7 meters of high-grade uranium with radioactivity readings reaching 18,490 counts per second. CEO Troy Boisjoli emphasized the significance: "First hole along a 31 km long trend across a basin with no drilling in it and we hit mineralization in the first hole."Concurrent with the new discovery, ATHA successfully extended mineralization at their flagship Lac 50 deposit, which hosts a historic resource of 43 million pounds of uranium at 0.69% grade. The drilling extended mineralization approximately 100 meters down-dip, demonstrating the deposit remains open and unconstrained.The geological features encountered bear striking similarities to the world-class Athabasca Basin, home to some of the highest-grade uranium deposits globally. The drill hole intersected a 23-meter-wide graphitic fault zone with approximately 90 meters of structural offset, conditions historically associated with significant uranium deposits.ATHA's management team brings proven uranium development experience from Cameco and NexGen operations, providing execution capability for advancing projects through development stages. The exploration success occurs against strengthening uranium market fundamentals, with CEO Boisjoli noting: "The absolute reality is that we do not have enough pounds at a significant scale to meet demand."The 2025 exploration program comprises approximately 10,000 meters of diamond drilling, focusing on expanding the Lac 50 footprint while systematically testing regional targets along the 31-kilometer trend.View ATHA Energy's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/atha-energySign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with William Sheriff, Executive Chairman of enCore Energy Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/encore-energy-tsxv-eu-uranium-production-reset-sparks-opportunity-6905Recording date: 27th June 2025enCore Energy Corp (TSXV:EU), the leading in-situ recovery uranium producer in the United States, has achieved a dramatic operational transformation following a strategic reorganization implemented in March 2025. The company has nearly doubled its daily uranium extraction rates from below 2,000 pounds to over 3,700 pounds per day while simultaneously reducing production costs by 20%.The production surge resulted from accelerated drilling operations and expanded capacity. enCore increased its active drilling rigs from approximately 12-14 to 24 rigs while cutting well installation timelines in half. Executive Chairman William Sheriff emphasized that drilling efficiency represents "the single most important metric in terms of our production," as wells generate the uranium-bearing fluid processed at company facilities.Alongside production gains, enCore achieved significant cost optimization, reducing cash costs from approximately $40.80 per pound to $32 per pound in the latest quarter. Management targets further reductions to the low-$30s range, with an ultimate goal of $30 per pound. However, Sheriff acknowledged inherent economic limitations, noting the company has "a finite ability to go below a certain level" around the $30 range.The company strengthened its financial position through strategic asset sales, most notably divesting Anfield Energy shares for nearly $20 million during a cash-constrained period. This divestiture provided crucial liquidity to support operational expansion while maintaining contract fulfillment capabilities.enCore's growth trajectory continues with the Upper Spring Creek satellite facility, which recently received its radioactive materials license and began construction. The facility is expected to commence production by late 2025 or early 2026, significantly expanding the company's capacity beyond current Rosita and Alta Mesa plant operations.The operational improvements position enCore advantageously within the uranium sector, which faces supply constraints amid growing nuclear energy demand. As one of few active U.S. producers, the company benefits from domestic supply priorities while avoiding the capital intensity of greenfield development projects.Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/encore-energySign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Elaine Ellingham, President & CEO of Omai Gold Mines Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/omai-gold-mines-tsxvomg-drill-program-reveals-high-grade-gold-6891Recording date: 27th June 2025Omai Gold Mines (TSXV:OMG) is advancing the development of what was once South America's largest primary gold producer, leveraging significant resource expansion and high-grade discoveries to transform the economics of the historic Guyana operation. The company has established a substantial foundation with 2 million ounces indicated and 2.3 million inferred resources, while 30,000 meters of additional drilling since the last estimate positions the project for significant resource growth.The most compelling development has been the discovery of high-grade zones that substantially exceed historical production grades. Recent drilling has intersected 4.5 g/t over 57 meters and 3.16 g/t over 68 meters, representing a dramatic improvement over the historical reconciled grade of 1.67 g/t. CEO Elaine Ellingham characterized these discoveries as "having a mine within your mine," with systematic grade increases at depth that could fundamentally improve project economics.Omai's dual development strategy maximizes resource value through both open-pit mining of the Wenot shear deposit and underground mining of the Gilt Creek deposit. Production capacity could scale from the previous 9,000 tons per day assumption to as high as 15,000 tons per day, supported by the expanded resource base and brownfield infrastructure advantages.The company benefits from significant regulatory progress, having received an interim environmental permit within six months of completing its preliminary economic assessment. The brownfield status provides cleared environmental conditions and established community support, while proximity to major transportation corridors reduces development costs.With $22 million in cash and recent financing demonstrating strong market confidence, Omai is well-positioned for its near-term catalysts. The updated resource estimate is expected within 6-8 weeks, followed by an enhanced preliminary economic assessment incorporating both deposits and higher throughput scenarios. Trading up 600% since early 2024, the company represents compelling exposure to large-scale gold development in a mining-friendly jurisdiction during a favorable precious metals environment.View Omai Gold Mines' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/omai-gold-minesSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Hugh Agro, President & CEO of Revival Gold Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/gold-copper-developers-disciplined-approach-to-project-advancement-7086Recording date: 25th June 2025Revival Gold (TSXV:RVG) is accelerating development of its Mercur gold project in Utah, positioning itself as a near-term producer in response to favorable market conditions and regulatory advantages. The company's strategic decision to prioritize Mercur over its larger Beartrack Arnett asset in Idaho centers on the Utah project's location on private land, which enables a faster two-year permitting timeline compared to federal land requirements.The Mercur project targets 100,000 ounces of annual gold production through open-pit heap leach operations, with construction planned for early 2028. CEO Hugh Agro emphasized the project's advantages, noting existing infrastructure proximity to a 40,000-person town eliminates the need for worker camps while providing immediate road access and office facilities.Revival Gold has launched an aggressive 13,000-meter drilling program to convert 40% of Mercur's inferred resources to measured and indicated categories while exploring expansion opportunities. The deposit represents a historically significant Carlin-type system, the first identified in the United States, with artisanal mining previously producing one million ounces at seven grams per ton.The company's valuation proposition appears compelling, trading at 0.15 times price-to-net asset value with Mercur alone carrying $750 million NAV at $3,000 gold. This represents substantial upside potential, with historical precedent suggesting developer valuations can reach 60-80 cents per dollar of underlying NAV once in production.Revival Gold's broader strategy encompasses a 6 million ounce resource base across both Utah and Idaho projects, offering organic growth without external acquisitions. The management team brings extensive mining experience from major companies including Hecla and Eldorado, with a demonstrated track record of delivering projects on time and budget.The favorable gold price environment, driven by central bank diversification away from US dollar reserves, provides additional support for the company's development timeline and project economics as it advances toward production.View Revival Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/revival-gold-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Christopher Taylor, Chairman, and Claudia Tornquist, President & CEO ,of Kodiak Copper Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/kodiak-copper-tsxvkdk-bc-porphyry-explorer-advances-from-discovery-to-resource-stage-in-2025-6573Recording date: 25th June 2025Kodiak Copper Corp (TSXV: KDK) has announced a significant milestone with its maiden mineral resource estimate for the MPD copper-gold project in British Columbia, marking the culmination of six years of systematic exploration. The resource encompasses four of seven identified mineralized zones, revealing 300 million tons of mineralization grading 0.42% copper equivalent for indicated resources and 0.33% for inferred resources.The scale of the discovery positions MPD among British Columbia's significant copper deposits. Founder and Chairman Christopher Taylor noted that using equivalent cutoff grades to nearby mines, the project contains "between 2 and 3 billion pounds of copper equivalent roughly, and that's worth more than $10 billion in the ground in resource." This substantial resource base provides the foundation for what could become a major mining operation in the region.Despite the impressive resource scale, Kodiak trades at approximately $50 million market capitalization, presenting what management views as a significant valuation disconnect. President and CEO Claudia Tornquist highlighted this opportunity, noting that comparable British Columbia copper companies with established resources "trade at 150 million, 200 million or more."The timing appears strategically advantageous given the global copper supply shortage. Tornquist emphasized that "the pipeline of projects, of exploration projects, development projects in the copper sector are at an all-time low," while demand accelerates from AI infrastructure and renewable energy transitions.Looking ahead, Kodiak expects to complete its full seven-zone resource estimate by year-end, with the remaining southern zones containing significant near-surface, high-grade mineralization. The company has secured funding for 5,500 meters of additional drilling, with results expected through autumn.Given the project's scale and characteristics, management anticipates eventual acquisition by a major mining company, as porphyry projects of this magnitude typically require major company involvement for development. The maiden resource provides the concrete numbers necessary for institutional evaluation and potential merger and acquisition discussions.View Kodiak Copper's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/kodiak-copper-corpSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Barry O'Shea, CEO, Highland CopperRecording date: 18th June, 2025Highland Copper Company emerges as one of the most compelling investment opportunities in the U.S. critical minerals sector, operating a fully permitted copper development project positioned to address America's growing strategic mineral shortage. Led by CEO Barry O'Shea, who brings 15 years of mining finance expertise including successful value creation at Fiore Gold, the company's Copperwood project in Michigan's Upper Peninsula represents a rare construction-ready copper mine in domestic U.S. markets.The project's economics demonstrate exceptional leverage to copper prices. At $4 per pound copper, Copperwood delivers $170 million NPV with 18% IRR, but at $5 copper, NPV jumps dramatically to $510 million—a 300% increase from just 25% higher copper prices. This sensitivity positions Highland Copper to benefit significantly from ongoing copper market tightness and the metal's critical role in electrification and defense applications.Highland Copper's competitive advantage extends beyond economics to its regulatory position. Unlike competitors facing years of permitting uncertainty, Copperwood holds all seven required Michigan state permits and operates on private land, eliminating federal NEPA process delays. This fully permitted status, combined with 22 formal government resolutions of support and a proposed $50 million state grant, creates unprecedented government backing for a private mining venture.The company's capital structure reflects institutional confidence, anchored by Orion Mine Finance's 28% equity stake, which provides both patient capital and a clear path to construction financing. With targeting a construction decision by first half 2026 and an 11-year initial mine life producing 30,000 tons of copper annually, Highland Copper addresses the urgent need for domestic copper production.As O'Shea emphasizes, "What the US needs now is projects that can be built and not ones that are sitting at first drill hole." This construction-ready status positions Highland Copper as a strategic play on America's industrial renaissance and energy security objectives, making it a standout opportunity in the critical minerals space.Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/highland-copperSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Tim Moody, President & CEO of Pan Global Resources Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/pan-global-resources-tsxvpgz-advancing-towards-maiden-copper-resource-7130Recording date: 20th June 2025Pan Global Resources (TSXV:PGZ) has delivered impressive operational and market performance in 2025, with CEO Tim Moody reporting a 50% share price increase driven by significant exploration breakthroughs at the company's Spanish copper-gold projects. The Vancouver-based mining company has strategically positioned itself in Spain's prolific Iberian Pyrite Belt, where recent drilling results are reshaping investor perceptions of the portfolio's potential.The company's most notable achievement centers on the Cármenes project in northern Spain, where initial drilling at the Providencia target has uncovered previously unknown gold mineralization extending well beyond historical mining operations. The discovery includes impressive intersections of 46 meters at 1.1 grams per tonne gold, alongside high-grade copper-cobalt-nickel zones approaching 3% copper equivalent over 4-meter intervals."All three holes have hit gold, which wasn't known before, wasn't extracted before, but over quite wide intervals," Moody explained, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the discovery. The geological system appears to be extensive, with one intersection spanning 110 meters of consistent gold mineralization, indicating significant scale potential for future resource development.Pan Global has dramatically expanded its exploration opportunity through helicopter-borne geophysical surveys, identifying 20-30 additional targets across a 3-4 kilometer area around the initial discovery. This systematic approach has multiplied the company's prospects at minimal incremental cost, creating a robust pipeline for continued exploration.Meanwhile, the flagship Escacena copper project continues advancing toward a maiden resource estimate in the second half of next year. The project offers superior metallurgical characteristics compared to regional peers, with higher recoveries and concentrate grades translating to enhanced per-unit value.The company's strategic positioning has been further validated by the recent mining permit approval for neighboring Grupo Mexico's project, reinforcing Spain's supportive regulatory environment. With multiple near-term catalysts including drilling results expected within 6-8 weeks, Pan Global appears well-positioned to capitalize on favorable copper market fundamentals and European Union strategic mineral initiatives.View Pan Global Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/pan-global-resourcesSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Keith Boyle, CEO of New Found GoldRecording date: 13th June, 2025New Found Gold Corporation has undergone significant leadership changes and adopted a development-focused approach under new management. The company appointed Keith Boyle as CEO in January 2025, following a complete board changeover in December 2024. Boyle brings four decades of mining experience and a track record of developing eight previous projects, describing his team as "mine builders."The company's flagship asset spans 110 kilometers in Newfoundland, containing 1.4 million ounces of indicated gold resources and 600,000 ounces of inferred resources. What sets this deposit apart is its exceptional grade distribution, with 75% of ounces concentrated in just 25% of the tonnage. This characteristic enables selective mining approaches that can prioritize high-grade material early in the mine life, supporting rapid cash flow generation.New Found Gold recently secured $63 million through a bought-deal financing led by major shareholder Eric Sprott, who maintained his 19% stake and committed an additional $20 million. This financial backing provides adequate capital to advance through development studies and supports the company's 80/20 capital allocation strategy - directing 80% toward project advancement and 20% toward high-grade exploration targets.The company benefits from strong government support, with Newfoundland targeting five new mines by 2030, and enjoys robust community backing through quarterly stakeholder meetings. Located just 15 kilometers from Gander, the project has access to skilled labor, with 80,000 people living within an hour's drive, many of whom are experienced mining professionals currently working fly-in/fly-out rotations elsewhere.A preliminary economic assessment due by June 2025 will provide the first comprehensive economic evaluation, examining various development scenarios including toll milling arrangements and optimal mine sequencing. The deposit's surface accessibility and visible high-grade zones reduce geological uncertainty, while multiple vein clusters offer flexibility in development approaches. This combination of proven management, high-grade accessible resources, and supportive operating environment positions New Found Gold to capitalize on favorable gold sector dynamics.Learn more: https://cruxinvestor.com/companies/new-found-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Mark Selby, CEO, Canada NickelOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/nickel-market-shows-signs-of-strength-after-period-of-volatility-7156Recording date: 17th June, 2025Canada Nickel Company has successfully upsized its brokered private placement from C$8 million to C$11 million, pricing units at $0.85 with half-warrants exercisable at $1.20. CEO Mark Selby attributed the strong institutional investor interest to the strategic value of the company's flagship Crawford Nickel Sulphide Project, despite ongoing market volatility from shorting activity affecting the broader sector.The Crawford project represents a substantial $2.5 billion development opportunity, with financing structured to minimize dilutive equity requirements. The comprehensive funding package includes $1.5 billion in debt financing, with Export Development Canada serving as mandated lead arranger, and $600 million in government tax credits covering 60% of equity requirements. Samsung SDI holds an option to acquire 10% of the project for $100 million US, while multiple government funding mechanisms provide additional support.Beyond Crawford, Canada Nickel continues expanding across the Timmins district, with Mann West delivering over one billion tons of initial resource containing two million tons of nickel. The company plans to publish nine separate resources by year-end, targeting development of what could become the world's largest nickel sulfide district. Selby emphasized the scalability potential: "Being able to take what we build at Crawford and simply cut and paste it four or five times."The company's accelerated development timeline significantly outpaces industry standards, targeting federal permit approval within six years of the fifth drill hole and production by 2027-2028, compared to typical 17-25 year development cycles. This acceleration benefits from favorable infrastructure conditions and supportive local communities.Selby presented a contrarian outlook on Indonesian market dynamics, suggesting the dominant producer will transition from market disruptor to price supporter, acting as "OPEC of nickel" through production controls. Recent ore price strength in Southeast Asia supports this thesis, potentially catalyzing broader sector rerating as supply discipline takes effect across global nickel markets.Learn more: https://cruxinvestor.com/companies/canada-nickelSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Colin Healey, CEO, Premier American UraniumOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/premier-american-uranium-tsxvpur-on-uraniums-future-in-powering-the-clean-energy-transition-6793Recording date: 17th June, 2025Premier American Uranium has announced a transformative acquisition of Nuclear Fuels, expected to close in mid-to-late August 2025, that more than doubles the company's Wyoming exploration footprint and positions it as a major pure-play uranium exploration company focused on US assets. The strategic combination creates 20-42 million pounds of combined exploration targets, representing a 150-250% increase in the company's resource potential.The acquisition brings together complementary assets with significant operational synergies. Nuclear Fuels' flagship Kaycee property contains 12-30 million pounds of exploration targets, while Premier's Great Divide Basin Cyclone project holds 8-12 million pounds. Both properties benefit from strategic positioning near existing processing facilities, including proximity to Ur-Energy's Lost Creek project and Energy Fuels' Nichols Ranch, enabling potential toll processing agreements once critical mass of 7-10 million pounds is achieved.A unique aspect of the transaction is the existing enCore Energy buyback option on the Kaycee project. Once Premier delivers a 15 million pound measured and indicated resource, enCore can acquire 51% of the resource for 2.5 times exploration costs, providing attractive downside protection. CEO Colin Healey noted that with an estimated $20 million exploration cost, the reimbursement would be "$50 million for 51% of 15 million pounds - an extremely attractive takeout valuation."The combined entity will exceed $100 million market capitalization, qualifying for major US exchange listing and URA ETF inclusion, significantly enhancing market access and liquidity. With Nuclear Fuels already conducting 100,000 feet of drilling at Kaycee ($3-4 million budget) and Premier planning 20,000 feet at Cyclone ($750,000), the companies maintain a healthy combined cash position supporting multi-year exploration programs.This acquisition comes amid unprecedented bipartisan US government support for domestic uranium production, with federal goals including quadrupling nuclear capacity by 2050 and adding 10 new reactors by 2030, creating a favorable backdrop for US-focused uranium developers.Learn more: https://cruxinvestor.com/companies/premier-american-uraniumSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Arturo Préstamo Elizondo, Executive Chairman & CEO of Santacruz Silver Mining Ltd.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/santacruz-silver-tsxvscz-strengthened-financial-position-deleveraged-and-developing-6319Recording date: 16th June 2025Santacruz Silver Mining (TSXV:SCZ) has reported exceptional Q1 2025 financial results, demonstrating the success of its operational turnaround strategy. The multi-metal producer generated revenues north of $70 million with EBITDA of $27 million, representing a dramatic gross profit increase of nearly 7,000% year-over-year.Executive Chairman Arturo Préstamo Elizondo attributed the strong performance to multiple factors, including favorable metal prices, strategic investments in mining operations, and beneficial currency movements in Bolivia. "Metal prices is helping us indeed, and also we have a few things that contribute to our gross margins. One has been the result of previous year's investments into our mines which have improved our margins," Préstamo explained.The company has made significant progress reducing its debt obligations, paying down $17.5 million of its Glencore consideration. With $22.5 million remaining to be paid in three monthly installments of $7.5 million each, the final payment is scheduled for late October 2025. The company maintains a strong treasury position with over $60 million in cash reserves.Strategic capital investments have focused on the Mexican Zimapán mine, particularly the development of Level 960, which management considers "the future of this mine." The company has acquired over 15 pieces of underground equipment over the past 18 months, with Level 960 now contributing 40,000 tons monthly out of the mine's total 75,000 tons per month throughput.While these investments temporarily elevated all-in sustained cash costs to $34.32 per silver equivalent ounce in Q1, management expects costs to normalize to $22-23 per ounce by Q4 2025 as operations transition from development ore to more efficient stope mining.The company maintains its commitment to community investment, allocating approximately $4 million annually to development programs while focusing on operational excellence rather than acquisitions for 2025.View Santacruz Silver's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/santacruz-silver-miningSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Marco Roque, President & CEO of Cassiar Gold Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/cassiar-gold-tsxvgldc-defining-a-5-million-ounce-gold-district-scale-opportunity-in-bc-canada-5923Recording date: 12th June 2025Cassiar Gold (TSXV:GLDC) has emerged as one of North America's most compelling exploration stories, delivering substantial resource growth while maintaining a disciplined approach to development at their flagship project in northern British Columbia. The company recently expanded its mineral resource estimate to 1.93 million ounces inferred plus 410,000 ounces indicated, representing a significant increase from the previous 1.4 million ounces.What distinguishes Cassiar from typical exploration projects is its unique infrastructure advantage. The company owns fully permitted mill and mining facilities, along with mining permits for five past-producing mines within their expansive 590 square kilometer land package. President and CEO Marco Roque emphasized this positioning: "Most exploration projects don't have access, most exploration projects don't have infrastructure and most exploration projects do not have fully owned permitted mill and mining permits. We have all of the above."Management has set an ambitious target of reaching 5 million ounces before considering production or potential acquisition by major producers. This confidence stems from the early-stage nature of exploration, with drilling covering less than 0.3% of their total land package. Notably, 48% of current resources lie within 50 meters of surface, providing significant advantages for future mining economics.The project features dual mining optionality through both bulk tonnage disseminated gold averaging 1.4+ grams per ton and high-grade underground veins carrying 10-20 grams per ton, with intercepts reaching up to 270 grams per ton. Recent completion of 70 square kilometers of geophysical surveys has identified multiple anomalous areas for follow-up exploration.Operating in northern British Columbia's tier-one jurisdiction provides political stability and excellent infrastructure access. With approximately $5 million in cash and drilling operations set to commence, Cassiar is positioned to capitalize on the growing disconnect between producer valuations and junior exploration companies as the gold sector recovery unfolds.View Cassiar Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/cassiar-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Blaine Monaghan, President & CEO of Pacific Ridge Exploration Ltd.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/pacific-ridge-exploration-tsxvpex-tapping-into-bcs-copper-gold-amid-global-demand-surge-5754Recording date: 11th June 2025Pacific Ridge Exploration Limited (TSXV:PEX) has undergone a significant strategic transformation, joining the prestigious Fiore Group while pivoting from planned US expansion back to its core British Columbia copper-gold portfolio. Under CEO Blaine Monaghan's leadership, the company now controls 100% of five promising projects in BC's emerging critical minerals landscape.The partnership with the Fiore Group represents a major validation of Pacific Ridge's asset quality, bringing strategic advisors Rob McLeod and Ryan Waymark alongside crucial capital access and M&A expertise. "I think I found most gratifying over this past year where it's been really really hard to access capital in the market and you begin to question and wonder if your projects are as good as you think you are and that was really validation," Monaghan explained.The company's flagship Kliyul project has attracted significant investment, with over $14 million spent and 19,000 meters of drilling completed since 2021. Management targets an inaugural resource estimate of minimum 250 million tons, with recent geophysical surveys suggesting the majority of the system remains untested. Highlight intercepts exceed 300 meters of 0.8% copper equivalent, with mineralization extending to 600 meters depth.Pacific Ridge's RDP project presents exceptional high-grade potential, building on Antofagasta Minerals' discovery of 110 meters grading 1.4% copper equivalent - one of BC's best intervals in 2022. The upcoming $1.5 million drill program will test expansion potential from this discovery, with geological interpretation indicating a steeply dipping pipe system leading to deeper mineralization.The company's tight capital structure of only 19 million shares outstanding provides significant leverage to drilling success, particularly given the high-grade nature of targets in the increasingly active Stikine terrain. With regional momentum building around discoveries like Amarc's nearby Joy project and government support for critical minerals development, Pacific Ridge is positioned to capitalize on both local and global copper market dynamics.View Pacific Ridge Exploration's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/pacific-ridge-explorationSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Sam Lee, President & CEO of NorthIsle Copper & Gold Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/northisle-copper-gold-tsxvncx-long-life-high-margin-canadian-project-6739Recording date: 5th June 2025Northisle Copper & Gold is positioning itself as a premier copper-gold development story, combining exceptional project economics with strategic board additions that signal institutional credibility. Led by President and CEO Sam Lee, the company has assembled a world-class team to advance what it characterizes as an extraordinary project trading at significant discount to its underlying value.The company's preliminary economic assessment reveals compelling fundamentals: a CAD$2 billion NPV after tax with 45% internal rate of return over 29 years at conservative metal prices. At current spot prices of $4.60 copper and $2,900 gold, the economics expand to a remarkable CAD$3.7 billion NPV. Despite these metrics, Northisle trades at approximately $250 million market capitalization, representing just 0.1 times net asset value.Strategic board appointments underscore the project's institutional appeal. Alex Davidson, a 30-year Barrick Gold executive vice president instrumental in identifying major global gold projects, brings unparalleled operational expertise. "If there's a major gold project in this world, Alex has touched it somehow," Lee noted. Complementing Davidson's experience, Dr. Pablo Mejia, former VP of Exploration at Ero Copper, contributes AI-driven geological analysis capabilities to unlock value from the project's extensive 60-year database.The company has engineered a phased development strategy that prioritizes high-grade, high-margin zones delivering 70% EBITDA margins. This approach, following the successful Teck Resources model, uses early gold production of 200,000 ounces annually to fund broader district development across a 35-kilometer porphyry system.Northisle's systematic exploration approach has delivered consistent results, with four consecutive phases generating a 3:1 return ratio—each $7 million drilling program translating to $25-30 million market capitalization increases. This disciplined execution, combined with strong political support for Canadian critical mineral development and strategic tidewater access on Vancouver Island, positions Northisle as a compelling investment opportunity in an increasingly strategic sector.View NorthIsle Copper & Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/northisle-copper-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Michael Rowley, President & CEO of Stillwater Critical MineralsOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/group-ten-metals-pge-pges-nickel-and-copper-time-to-reward-patient-investors-343Recording date: 5th June 2025Stillwater Critical Minerals has positioned itself as a leading domestic critical minerals investment opportunity, combining substantial polymetallic resources with strategic institutional backing and favorable policy tailwinds. The company's recent transformation from Group 10 Metals reflects management's conviction in their Montana asset, which sits within America's most established platinum group element mining district.The investment proposition centers on a significant resource base containing 1.6 billion pounds of nickel, copper, and cobalt alongside 3.8 million ounces of platinum group elements and gold. This polymetallic endowment addresses multiple critical mineral supply chains simultaneously, providing natural commodity diversification and reducing single-metal price risk. The resource represents a potential 10-20 year mine life operation with bulk tonnage scenarios exceeding $50 per ton gross value.Glencore's strategic 15.4% investment provides crucial institutional validation and operational expertise. The global commodity giant has made two separate investments and secured board representation, indicating serious commercial interest beyond passive investment. This partnership brings established market access, technical knowledge, and potential development capital to advance the project through feasibility studies.The project's location within Montana's Stillwater Complex offers significant operational advantages. Positioned within 500 meters of Sibanye-Stillwater's active East Boulder mine, the company can potentially leverage existing infrastructure, processing facilities, and skilled workforce. This proximity reduces development capital requirements and project execution risk compared to greenfield opportunities in remote locations.Management has assembled proven technical expertise through recruitment from Ivanhoe Mines, bringing direct experience developing complex polymetallic deposits. The team's geological model applies successful Bushveld Complex strategies to similar rock formations, reducing exploration risk and accelerating resource definition. Their reinterpretation of 40,000 meters of historical and recent drilling data has identified previously unrecognized economic potential within the lower Stillwater Complex.Federal policy alignment creates exceptional development opportunities. The project directly addresses U.S. critical mineral security objectives, with potential access to Defense Production Act funding and regulatory support. Montana's pro-mining jurisdiction and established permitting frameworks provide additional development advantages, while congressional support has been demonstrated through direct engagement with the state's delegation.The development timeline offers near-term catalysts for value recognition. Management expects to complete a Preliminary Economic Assessment by Q3 2026, following additional drilling and resource modeling work. This milestone will provide crucial economic validation and establish the foundation for advanced feasibility studies and potential strategic partnerships.Market dynamics strongly favor domestic critical mineral development. Supply chain vulnerabilities, energy transition demand, and strategic stockpiling trends create sustained growth drivers across Stillwater's commodity portfolio. The company's polymetallic approach provides exposure to multiple market segments while reducing dependence on individual commodity cycles. Strategic optionality enhances investment appeal through multiple potential development pathways. These include strategic partnerships with neighboring operators, infrastructure sharing agreements, independent development scenarios, or potential acquisition by major mining companies seeking domestic critical mineral exposure.With approximately $15 million invested against a current market capitalization of C$63 million, Stillwater represents compelling value creation potential. The combination of substantial resources, institutional backing, policy support, and proven management positions the company to capitalize on America's critical mineral security imperative while delivering significant investor returns through systematic project advancement and strategic value realization.View Stillwater Critical Minerals' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/stillwater-critical-mineralsSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with George Salamis, President & CEO of Integra Resources Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/integra-resources-tsxvitr-developer-transforms-into-cash-flowing-gold-producer-7094Recording date: 9th June 2025Integra Resources has successfully completed its transformation from a gold developer to a cash-flowing producer, marking a pivotal shift in the company's eight-year trajectory. The Nevada-focused mining company now operates the Florida Canyon mine, which began production six months ago and serves as the financial engine for developing two additional projects in the state's prolific Great Basin region.President and CEO George Salamis emphasizes that many institutional investors still perceive Integra as a developer rather than a producer. "The concept of Integra actually producing gold and having cash flow is new," he explains. "About two-thirds of the funds that we're meeting this week don't know Integra as a gold producer - they know Integra as a gold developer."The company controls a substantial 10 million ounce portfolio across three Nevada projects, targeting 300,000 ounces annually when all assets reach production. This scale would position Integra among mid-tier gold producers, representing a significant step-change from typical junior developer models.Florida Canyon's restart has generated impressive financial results, with $60 million in treasury and cash margins of approximately $1,000 per ounce. This financial strength enables self-funded development of the DeLamar and Nevada North projects without dilutive equity financing. "Six months ago we would have been not contemplating going fast this year on Nevada North," Salamis notes. "Now with the cash balance that we have and the money that we're generating from Florida Canyon, we can afford to go much faster."The company benefits from favorable regulatory tailwinds under the current US administration, which has designated gold as a critical mineral and promised 30-day permitting turnarounds. Integra sits among the top three projects in the US permitting queue, positioning it advantageously in a sector with limited new development opportunities.Despite operational progress, Integra trades below typical producer multiples, creating a valuation gap that management expects to close through consistent quarterly performance and market education efforts.View Integra Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/integra-resourcesSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Troy Boisjoli, CEO, ATHA EnergyOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/atha-energy-tsxvsask-up-to-47-grades-defining-mineralized-potential-6890Recording date: 4 May 2025ATHA Energy emerges as a compelling uranium investment opportunity amid unprecedented nuclear expansion policies and shifting global supply dynamics. The Canadian exploration company controls significant uranium assets positioned to benefit from US executive orders targeting a quadrupling of nuclear power capacity from 50 million to 200 million pounds per annum.The company's flagship Angilak project holds a 43 million pound historic resource at an exceptional 0.69% U3O8 grade, comparable to world-class deposits. ATHA's 2024 drilling program achieved a remarkable 100% success rate across 25 drill holes, demonstrating the scale and continuity of mineralization. CEO Troy Boisjoli notes this success rate is "uncommon" in uranium exploration, indicating substantial metal endowment potential.Beyond the established historic resource, ATHA controls the entire unexplored Angikuni basin, spanning 31 kilometers of mineralized structural trend comparable to the Athabasca basin. This district-scale opportunity presents discovery potential analogous to early Athabasca exploration in the 1960s, with surface mineralization up to 30% uranium and historical drilling results showing grades up to 5.6%.The company's exploration program is led by Cliff Revering, former chief geologist responsible for bringing Cigar Lake into production. The concurrent drill programs target both additional work at established projects, as well as new discoveries.Market fundamentals support uranium price appreciation, with current conditions mirroring the 2006-2007 period that saw prices rise from the mid-$30s to $135-138 per pound. Boisjoli describes market tension as "a spring that's being coiled very very tight," driven by constrained global supply chains and accelerating demand from both traditional utilities and technology companies requiring nuclear power for data centers.Canada's strategic position as a stable uranium supplier becomes increasingly valuable as global supply chains fragment, with significant Kazakhstani production committed to China and Russia, creating what Boisjoli terms a "bifurcated uranium market."Learn More: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/atha-energySign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Simon Marcotte, President & CEO of Northern Superior Resources Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/northern-superior-resources-tsxvsup-consolidating-12moz-resource-base-7148Recording date: 7th June 2025Northern Superior Resources (TSXV: SUP) has reported exceptional drilling results at its flagship Philibert project in Quebec's Chibougamau Gold Camp, delivering what CEO Simon Marcotte describes as "probably the best drilling results we've seen" at the property. The discovery of high-grade underground mineralization directly beneath the existing open-pit resource fundamentally transforms the project's development profile and economic potential.The latest drilling campaign intersected remarkable grades including 21.6 metres at 4.82 g/t Au with 7.0 metres at 11.86 g/t Au, and 22.2 metres at 2.09 g/t Au including 10.0 metres at 3.54 g/t Au. These results extend a new high-grade discovery zone over 200 metres of strike length with more than 150 metres of vertical extent.The strategic significance lies in the underground mineralization's position beneath the planned open pit, enabling a phased development approach that generates cash flow during the transition to underground operations. "If it's under an open pit, then you mine the open pit first and then you access the high-grade with a ramp," Marcotte explained. "So in other words, you're making money while accessing the high-grade at depth."This discovery strengthens Northern Superior's broader consolidation strategy in the Chibougamau Gold Camp, where the company and IAMGOLD now control 12.4 million ounces of defined resources. The camp's simple metallurgy, with 93-95% recovery rates, supports optimization opportunities across multiple deposits through a hub-and-spoke processing strategy.With strong gold prices creating favorable market conditions and Northern Superior maintaining an active exploration pipeline across its 62,000-hectare land package, the company appears well-positioned to capitalize on what Marcotte believes will be "the next big camp to take off globally."View Northern Superior Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/northern-superior-resources-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Jason Jessup, CEO of Magna Mining Inc.Our previous interview: Recording date: 4th June 2025Magna Mining. presents a compelling investment opportunity as one of the few junior mining companies delivering immediate copper production with clear pathways to operational scaling. Following the February 2025 acquisition of the McCreedy West mine in Ontario's Sudbury basin, the company generated positive cash flow of $300,000 in its first operational month while producing 790,000 pounds of copper equivalent—results that exceeded management expectations during what was effectively a three-week transition period.The company's operational success validates its production-focused strategy in a market where most copper juniors remain years away from meaningful revenue generation. CEO Jason Jessup, who previously operated McCreedy West during peak production periods exceeding 2,500 tons daily, brings proven expertise to optimize operations. The company has already implemented operational improvements including expanded shift schedules and contractor-supported development work to increase production capacity and workplace access.Magna Mining's recent $33.5 million financing round, comprising $23.5 million in convertible debentures and $10 million equity secured, provides working capital for operational optimization and growth initiatives. The company plans to invest $5-10 million this year in capital development at McCreedy West, focusing on sustainable expansion rather than short-term cash maximization. This disciplined approach positions the company for long-term value creation while maintaining financial flexibility.The company's competitive advantage extends beyond current production to include four additional fully permitted past-producing mines with combined NI 43-101 resources exceeding 50 million tons of copper, nickel, and PGM mineralization. The adjacent Levack mine offers particular near-term growth potential with recent drilling revealing high-grade copper zones of 24% copper plus PGMs within 200 meters of surface in previously unmined areas. An internal restart study for Levack is expected in Q4 2025, with a new resource estimate anticipated by end of Q3 2025.Magna Mining's bootstrap growth model differentiates it from capital-intensive development projects requiring multi-billion dollar investments and multi-year construction timelines. The company can fund expansion through operating cash flow, minimizing shareholder dilution while maintaining control over development timing. This approach appeals to institutional investors seeking copper exposure without the execution risks associated with large-scale development projects.The Sudbury jurisdiction provides additional competitive advantages including stable regulatory framework, established infrastructure, and access to skilled labor from the region's 180,000-person population with extensive mining experience. Established customer relationships with Vale and Glencore ensure secure off-take arrangements and predictable revenue streams.Strong institutional backing supports the investment thesis, with over 50% institutional ownership including 21% held by Dundee Corp, whose leader Jonathan Goodman serves on Magna Mining's board. Management and board retain approximately 10% ownership, aligning interests with shareholders.As CEO Jessup noted, "No one has what we got like we have a producing mine in the best jurisdiction I would say in North America for copper and nickel mining and four other fully permitted past producing mines." This unique combination of immediate production, scalable growth opportunities, and reduced development risk positions Magna Mining as an attractive copper investment in a supply-constrained market where traditional development projects face increasing capital and execution challenges.With $38 million cash on hand and clear catalysts including quarterly production reports and the upcoming Levack study results, Magna Mining offers investors a de-risked pathway to copper sector exposure with multiple value creation opportunities.View Magna Mining's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/magna-miningSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Terry Lynch, CEO of Power Metallic MinesOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/power-metallic-tsxvpnpn-charges-ahead-with-rare-nickel-copper-pgm-mega-discovery-6787Recording date: 4th June 2025Power Metallic Mines presents a compelling investment opportunity at the intersection of exceptional geology and transformative geopolitical dynamics. The company's NISK project in Quebec has delivered extraordinary drill results, including 12.5 meters grading 11% combined nickel-copper-platinum group elements—grades that CEO Terry Lynch described as requiring investors to "pinch yourself" due to their exceptional nature.The discovery's significance extends beyond impressive intercepts to encompass massive scale potential. Lynch estimates current resources could expand from 15-20 million tons to 45 million tons by year-end, with ultimate potential reaching 140 million tons comparable to world-class deposits like Voisey's Bay. This growth trajectory reflects the deposit's orthomagmatic system characteristics, which typically feature multiple high-grade pipes or zones that Lynch compared to fingers extending from a palm-shaped source.Power Metallic has secured strategic positioning through sophisticated capital allocation and timing. The company raised $50 million to fund a comprehensive 100,000-meter drilling program through 2026, eliminating near-term dilution risk while supporting aggressive exploration that Lynch noted would typically only be affordable to major mining companies. The funding demonstrates global investor confidence, sourced equally from Australia (50%), Europe (25%), and America (25%), with minimal Canadian participation reflecting the company's international appeal.Management's strategic approach centers on maintaining auction dynamics for maximum value realization. Lynch emphasized their deliberate avoidance of industry investors, stating "we want to push this as long as possible with the financial players because you want this to be an auction at the end of the day." This strategy preserves optionality between outright sale to majors—Lynch noted "nine times out of ten" such discoveries are sold—and joint venture structures that could retain upside exposure while funding development.The investment thesis gains substantial support from evolving geopolitical dynamics. The Trump administration's "Fortress America" approach to critical minerals has fundamentally altered market dynamics, prioritizing supply chain security over pure price considerations. Lynch has witnessed this transformation firsthand through direct engagement with the U.S. Department of Defense and Department of Energy, observing that "they definitely are going to be less reliant on price and more reliant on guaranteed supply."This policy shift has attracted unprecedented investor interest. Lynch noted, "Ultra high net worth investors looking at investing tens and hundreds of millions of dollars in the space. We were not having these conversations a year ago. The billionaires have realized there's going to be something happening in critical minerals and they want to be part of it."Market fundamentals provide additional support through projected supply deficits. By 2034, nickel is expected to face a deficit of 839,000 tonnes—nearly seven times larger than today's surplus—while the battery metals sector requires approximately $514 billion in investment by 2030, with nickel alone needing $66 billion. Power Metallic's polymetallic nature enhances economic attractiveness through exceptional recovery potential. Lynch referenced comparable operations achieving "high 80s, low 90s" recoveries, supporting projections of one-year payback periods that enable rapid development timelines.The investment case represents a rare convergence of world-class geology in a tier-one jurisdiction, backed by substantial funding and experienced management, positioned to benefit from the transformation of critical minerals markets from commodity-driven to strategy-driven pricing during a generational supply-demand rebalancing.View Power Metallic's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/power-nickelSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Jon Bey, CEO of Standard Uranium Ltd.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/standard-uranium-tsxvstnd-partnering-portfolio-to-fund-discoveries-5885Recording date: 3rd June 2025Standard Uranium (TSXV:STND) is emerging as a compelling investment opportunity in the uranium sector through its innovative dual business model that combines focused exploration with proven project generation capabilities. The Canadian company has demonstrated remarkable momentum, with its share price surging from 5 cents to 14 cents over the past month while successfully doubling its initial capital raise from $500,000 to $1 million.The company's flagship Davidson River project in Saskatchewan's Athabasca Basin remains the primary value driver, with CEO Jon Bey preparing to resume drilling activities in August-September 2025 after a strategic three-year hiatus. This measured approach reflects disciplined capital allocation, as the company used the interim period to enhance targeting precision through advanced geophysical technology partnerships with Australian firm Fleet Space.Standard Uranium's project generation model provides crucial financial stability and risk mitigation. The company earns $5-8 million per partnership deal by developing projects over 18 months, securing permits and First Nations agreements, then partnering with capital providers while retaining operational control. Importantly, if partners fail to complete their three-year earning requirements, Standard Uranium recovers 100% project ownership plus additional exploration data.Recent corporate restructuring through a partnership with Vancouver's Jasper Management and Advisory Corp has strengthened operational capabilities and capital markets access. The company benefits from experienced technical leadership, including lead geologist Sean Hillacre, who brings seven years of NextGen Energy experience and specialized knowledge of the neighboring Arrow deposit.Market dynamics strongly favor Standard Uranium's positioning. The Trump administration's commitment to quadrupling nuclear capacity by 2050, combined with growing technology company demand for nuclear power, creates supportive fundamentals. As Bey noted, "There's North America and then there's everyone else," highlighting the strategic value of domestic uranium assets amid global supply chain concerns.Standard Uranium's focused capital allocation strategy directs all equity raises toward Davidson River exploration while project generation partnerships cover operational expenses, positioning the company for potential discovery success in an increasingly favorable uranium market environment.View Standard Uranium's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/standard-uraniumSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Kiran Patankar – President, CEO & Director, Maple Gold Mines Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/maple-gold-mines-tsxvmgm-drill-results-show-path-to-5moz-resource-7008Recording date: 4 May 2025Maple Gold Mines has emerged as a compelling turnaround story in Quebec's premier Abitibi gold region, demonstrating how operational discipline and strategic partnerships can unlock value in today's elevated gold price environment. Under CEO Kiran Patankar's leadership over the past 18 months, the Canadian exploration and development company has transformed from what he describes as "a stagnant and somewhat bloated company" into an efficient operation positioned for growth.The operational restructuring has been dramatic. General and administrative costs have been slashed by 46%, with the company now operating on just $150,000 monthly cash burn while delivering improved exploration results. Drilling efficiency has improved 25%, reducing costs from $400 to $300 per meter and allowing expanded programs within existing budgets. These improvements have translated into renewed market interest, with daily trading volumes increasing from 150,000 to over 600,000 shares following recent drill results.Central to Maple Gold's value proposition is its strategic partnership with Agnico Eagle, one of Canada's premier gold producers and the company's largest shareholder. This relationship provides technical expertise, potential processing solutions, and validation of project quality. "It's a benefit to Maple and Maple shareholders to have the strong partnership that we have," Patankar noted, emphasizing the alignment of interests.The company owns 100% of 3 million ounces of gold resources across district-scale projects in Quebec's Abitibi region, representing a significant shift from previously owning only 50% of assets. Recent drilling has demonstrated expansion potential, with systematic exploration targeting both near-mine growth and district-scale discoveries.Perhaps most intriguingly, Maple Gold is pursuing a dual strategy of continued exploration alongside development studies for smaller-scale production scenarios of 100,000-150,000 ounces annually. This approach could generate cash flow to self-fund future exploration, breaking the traditional junior mining cycle of continuous dilution.Trading at $8 per ounce with a $40 million market cap despite gold prices above $3,300, Maple Gold appears significantly undervalued compared to historical metrics when the company traded at $150 million with only 50% asset ownership at $1,800 gold prices.Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/maple-gold-mines-ltdSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Sean Roosen, Founder & CEO of Osisko Development Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/osisko-development-tsxvodv-permitted-cariboo-project-towards-becoming-500000-oz-gold-camp-6379Recording date: 4th June 2025Osisko Development Corporation presents a compelling investment opportunity as one of only two fully permitted gold mines in Canada, positioning the company to capitalize on gold's strategic renaissance while benefiting from exceptional project economics and proven management execution.Project FundamentalsThe Cariboo Gold project in British Columbia represents a rare permitted asset in an increasingly constrained development environment. With construction permits secured in under 5 years compared to the industry average of 14 years, Osisko Development has overcome the primary hurdle facing gold developers. The project targets initial production of 200,000 ounces annually from a 5,000 ton per day operation, requiring $650 million capex versus competitors demanding $6.5 billion.The deposit contains 2 million ounces in reserves at 3.8 grams per ton, significantly exceeding comparable Canadian operations like Alamos' Young Davidson mine at 2.2 g/t and Agnico's Goldex at 1.52 grams. Cariboo's additional resources include 1.6 million ounces measured and indicated plus 1.8 million ounces inferred, spanning a 4.4 kilometer strike within a 50 kilometer mineralized trend under company control.Superior EconomicsProduction economics appear robust with costs targeting $1,157 per ounce, generating substantial margins at current gold prices exceeding $2,400. At these levels, the operation projects annual free cash flow of $457 million, providing significant financial flexibility.Construction activities are underway with 1,200 meters of underground development completed and critical equipment secured. The company has invested $700 million to date with over 700,000 meters of drilling, demonstrating development thoroughness that reduces execution risk.Proven Management Track RecordCEO Sean Roosen brings exceptional credibility through his track record building Canadian Malartic, which became Canada's largest gold mine. After selling that asset for $4.1 billion in 2014, now the mine represents $22 billion of Agnico Eagle's valuation. This value creation extends across the Osisko platform, including Osisko Mining's $2.16 billion sale to Gold Fields.Scaling and M&A PotentialThe project offers significant expansion potential through phased development, potentially reaching 500,000 ounces annually. Management envisions scaling from 5,000 to 15,000 tons per day processing rates, supported by the deposit's exceptional size. As Roosen noted, "You could put all three of those mines [Young Davidson, Goldex, and Landronne] in the footprint of this deposit and still have room for one more Young Davidson."The company operates with a $375 million market capitalization and benefits from strategic shareholder support, with investors holding 24% and 9.9% stakes respectively. Industry consolidation trends favor quality assets like Cariboo Gold, with management noting that "If I look at all the top 10 M&A ideas that come out, ODV is always on the list."Near-Term CatalystsProject financing announcements expected within two months should significantly de-risk the investment while potentially providing share price catalysts. The G Mining precedent, which achieved a $4.3 billion valuation after successful project development, demonstrates potential upside for executed development stories.Osisko Development represents leveraged exposure to gold's strategic importance through a rare permitted asset with superior economics, proven management, and multiple value creation pathways.View Osisko Development's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/osisko-developmentSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Philippe Cloutier, President & CEO of Cartier Resources Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/cartier-resources-tsxvecr-unlocking-15km-gold-corridor-in-quebec-4682Recording date: 3rd June 2025Cartier Resources (TSXV:ECR) has emerged as a compelling Quebec gold exploration opportunity following a strategic transformation that has positioned the company for what management believes could be a breakthrough 18-month period. Led by President and CEO Philippe Cloutier, the junior explorer has evolved from a multi-asset company into a focused, well-funded operation with a singular mission: proving the existence of a new gold mining camp.The company's flagship Cadillac project spans a 20-kilometer stretch along the highly prospective Cadillac fault, a geological structure that has historically produced over 100 million ounces of gold. Located just 30 minutes from Val-d'Or, the project places Cartier among established operations from major producers including Agnico Eagle and Eldorado, providing validation of the district's geological potential.Perhaps most significantly, Cartier has secured Agnico Eagle as a 27% shareholder, creating a strategic partnership that provides technical expertise while maintaining operational independence. "They have three mills to feed," Cloutier noted, highlighting natural synergies that could emerge from successful exploration. The partnership offers Cartier access to world-class guidance while providing Agnico Eagle exposure to potential discoveries in their operating district.The centerpiece of Cartier's strategy is an ambitious 100,000-meter diamond drilling program launching in August 2025. This 18-month campaign represents almost as much drilling as the company completed over the past decade, utilizing artificial intelligence-generated targets alongside traditional exploration methods. The program aims to expand the company's existing 2.3 million ounce resource estimate while establishing the "center of gravity" of the gold camp.With $12 million in funding providing full coverage for the drilling program, Cartier enters this critical phase well-positioned to execute its comprehensive exploration strategy. The company exemplifies the current disconnect between junior exploration fundamentals and market valuations, potentially creating opportunities for investors willing to participate in systematic camp-scale discovery efforts in one of Canada's premier mining jurisdictions.View Cartier Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/cartier-resources-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Guy Goulet, CEO & Steven Zadka, Executive Chairman, Cerro de Pasco Resources Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/cerro-de-pasco-csecdpr-advancing-the-worlds-largest-above-ground-mineral-resource-6795Recording date: 30 May 2025Cerro de Pasco Resources has positioned itself at the forefront of a revolutionary approach to mineral extraction, targeting what CEO Guy Goulet describes as "the largest above ground mineral resource on the planet." The company owns mineral rights to 75 million tons of tailings and stockpiles from a historic mine originally financed by JP Morgan in 1906, representing a unique opportunity to extract value from previously processed material using modern technology.The economic advantages are compelling. While traditional mining operations face costs of $50-250 per ton for underground extraction and $3-20 per ton for open pit operations, Cerro de Pasco can process tailings at just $1-2 per ton. This dramatic cost reduction, combined with grades averaging 4.3 ounces per ton silver equivalent, creates superior margin potential with minimal operational risk.Recent drilling results have exceeded expectations, revealing substantial gallium deposits averaging 53 grams per ton across 40 holes, with the latest southern holes showing 86 grams per ton. This discovery gains strategic significance amid Chinese export restrictions on gallium, a critical mineral essential for semiconductor manufacturing and defense applications.The project addresses significant environmental challenges affecting 67,000 local residents. The tailings currently produce acid water and pose health risks, making reprocessing the only viable path to environmental remediation. This creates strong community support and regulatory advantages rarely seen in traditional mining operations.Beyond base and precious metals extraction, the company has identified substantial value creation opportunities through pyrite processing, with potential NPVs of $8-9 billion from producing sulfuric acid, direct reduced iron, and green hydrogen. These initiatives align with global decarbonization trends and Peru's critical need for fertilizer production following the cessation of Russian imports.With Eric Sprott holding 22% ownership and sufficient capital to complete feasibility studies by mid-2026, Cerro de Pasco represents a de-risked entry into polymetallic extraction with multiple value creation pathways and strong ESG credentials.Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/cerro-de-pasco-resourcesSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Jonathan Egilo, President & CEO of AXO Copper Corp.Recording date: 30th May 2025Executive Summary for InvestorsAXO Copper presents a compelling investment opportunity in the high-grade copper space, combining proven mineralization with near-term development potential. The company is set to list , following successful completion of its IPO process, positioning investors to participate in a systematic resource definition program at the La Huerta Copper Project in Jalisco, Mexico.Production-Proven Asset BaseUnlike typical exploration stories, AXO's flagship project comes with established production history that significantly reduces geological and metallurgical risk. Locals successfully operated the deposit for three to four years using a 250-ton-per-day sulfide flotation plant, consistently mining ore grading 4-5% copper. This operational track record provides crucial validation of both ore continuity and processing characteristics that most junior companies lack during early development phases. President and CEO Jonathan Egilo emphasized this advantage: "They've effectively done a three or four year what I would consider like a bulk sample derisking process for us. And the next step is to see like what it should be kind of restarted up."Exceptional Grade Profile and Geological PotentialAXO's drilling program has confirmed the high-grade nature of the deposit with impressive intercepts including 9.4m grading 4.4% copper, with a subsection of 3.2m grading 21.4% copper. The mineralization extends across a 5-kilometer strike length, with drilling to date reaching only 200 meters below surface. The geological system consists of steeply-dipping copper sulfide dykes with high-grade cores of 3-6 meters surrounded by alteration halos, creating opportunities for both high-grade and bulk tonnage scenarios.The company has traced mineralization for 5 kilometers along surface, yet the family's original operation covered only 200 meters of strike length and extended just 40-50 meters depth. This limited exploitation of a much larger system presents significant expansion potential for systematic exploration.Strategic Acquisition and Capital StructureAXO secured roughly $9.5 million in 2023 which funded the first drill program, plus 5 million shares over five years with no ongoing royalties. This royalty-free structure enhances project economics by allowing AXO to capture full production value without perpetual payments. The company has raised more capital through pre-IPO financing rounds providing adequate financing for the planned 15,000-meter drilling program.Systematic Exploration StrategyThe upcoming drill program allocates 70% of 15,000 meters to a priority 1.5-kilometer zone, focusing on strike extension and depth testing to 350-400 meters below surface. The systematic approach targets resource definition while testing the hypothesis that current workings represent only the upper portion of a larger copper system. Regional targets provide additional upside potential with surface copper expressions grading up to 6% in different geological settings.Infrastructure and Development AdvantagesLocated within 7 kilometers of ArcelorMittal's major iron ore operation, the project benefits from established infrastructure, skilled labor, and supply chains. Access requires only 1.5 hours from Manzanillo port via paved highways, providing connectivity to Pacific shipping and Mexico's industrial centers.Management's development strategy focuses on building a project suitable for junior company advancement rather than requiring acquisition by major miners. Egilo noted: "One of our best differentiating factors here is, you know, I don't know what the scale of this should end up being, but you know, it's not going to be a $3 billion porphyry bill."Investment OutlookAXO Copper offers investors exposure to high-grade copper discovery with reduced geological risk, systematic exploration approach, and clear development pathway. The combination of production history, exceptional grades, excellent infrastructure, and experienced management team creates a compelling value proposition within the copper sector's favorable supply-demand dynamics.View AXO Copper's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/axo-copper-cSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Nick Appleyard, President & CEO of TriStar Gold Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/tristar-gold-tsxvtsg-moving-through-permitting-process-4713Recording date: 30th May 2025Tristar Gold (TSXV: TSG) has emerged as a compelling investment opportunity in Brazil's mining sector following the release of updated project economics and successful resolution of permitting challenges at its Castelo de Sonhos gold project. The company recently completed a $10 million financing round that will fund strategic drilling programs and advance the project toward feasibility study completion.The updated Preliminary Feasibility Study released in May 2025 demonstrates exceptional project economics with a 40% post-tax internal rate of return at $2,200 gold prices. With current gold trading around $3,200 per ounce, management estimates returns could exceed 70%, supported by over $1 billion in pre-tax cash flow generation and $600 million post-tax net present value. The project targets average annual production of 120,000 ounces over 11 years, with higher-grade output of 150,000 ounces during initial years.A significant milestone involved successfully defending the environmental permit against a public prosecutor challenge regarding indigenous consultation. Despite recommendations for suspension, the permit remained valid as multiple parties confirmed no impact on indigenous lands located hundreds of kilometers from the project site. This resolution strengthens Tristar's regulatory position and eliminates a key development risk.The company benefits from exceptional infrastructure advantages, sitting just 15 kilometers from a major highway with existing power lines and road access developed for the regional soybean industry. These factors support a sub-$300 million capital cost estimate while eliminating major infrastructure development requirements.Management has clearly articulated its strategy as a project developer rather than mine builder, actively seeking partnerships with established mining companies over the next 12 months. This approach recognizes that optimal value creation comes through partnering with experienced operators capable of funding and operating the project through production.The recent financing included participation from Eric Sprott, taking approximately 10% of the company, providing third-party validation of the investment opportunity. With permitting resolved and drilling programs commencing, Tristar expects improved news flow to drive valuation re-rating as the company advances toward strategic partnership.View Tristar Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/tristar-gold-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Alternative business models in mineral exploration and mining can build value for communities, benefit resource companies and influence perceptions in our industry. This episode highlights two innovative companies who are changing the business of mining: Nations Royalty and VRIFY. Nations Royalty, a TSXV-listed royalty company, is focused on creating royalty diversification for indigenous people. Kody Penner, VP of Corporate Development at Nations Royalty, joined host Halley Keevil to explain the background and the business model. First, he tells his own story as an indigenous person growing up surrounded by British Columbia's mining industry. The company, Nations Royalty, is the first indigenous-owned mining royalty company, and their indigenous ownership and management make them unique. He elaborates on how they balance corporate goals with indigenous goals and values, how they are creating wealth for indigenous groups, and what is next for the company in the future. Next, Steve de Jong, CEO of VRIFY, talks about the company's history and how they came to their current business model as an AI-focused mineral exploration and software service provider. Launching at PDAC in 2024 with just 4 clients, VRIFY now has 30 clients and gains 5-7 new clients per month. Steve discusses how their team of geoscientists and machine learning experts utilize every scrap of data from a company in order to build predictive models that deliver targets to their clients. He reviews the many ways in which VRIFY is unique in the industry, including the symbiotic relationship they have with clients, enabling them to use their proprietary software alongside the VRIFY team. He hints at some exciting current and future successes that the listener should stay tuned for. Steve believes we are about to enter into a period where AI will be ubiquitous in the mining industry, and VRIFY will be ahead of the game. Theme music is Confluence by Eastwindseastwindsmusic.com Come join us in Brisbane, Australia for SEG 2025, September 26-29th. This will be a dynamic conference with cutting edge science, new discoveries, technology and more. Opportunities for networking and learning include several workshops and field trips before and after the event, relaxed social events and of course the conference itself. See you there!
Interview with Alan Carter, President & CEO of Cabral Gold Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/cabral-gold-tsxv-cbr-near-term-production-pivot-advances-6950Recording date: 28th May 2025Cabral Gold Corp (TSXV:CBR) is positioning itself as a compelling transition story in the junior mining sector, advancing its Cuiú Cuiú gold project in northern Brazil from exploration toward near-term production through an innovative low-cost strategy. CEO Alan Carter has architected a development approach centered on extracting gold from saprolite—weathered rock material resembling mud—through heap leach processing, offering significant advantages over traditional hard rock mining.The company's starter operation targets a 60-meter thick saprolite layer requiring no drilling, blasting, or crushing, making it "an earth moving exercise basically, not a rock mining exercise," according to Carter. Metallurgical testing has yielded exceptional results, with 70% gold recovery achieved within 12 days compared to months typically required for heap leach operations. The September 2024 Preliminary Feasibility Study outlined $37 million USD in capital costs, generating a 47% post-tax Internal Rate of Return at $2,250 per ounce gold. With current gold prices around $3,250 per ounce, Carter projects approximately $2,300 per ounce profit margins.Beyond the starter operation lies significant district-scale potential. Historic placer production of 2 million ounces at Cuiú Cuiú compares to just 200,000 ounces at neighboring Tocantinzinho, which became a 2.5 million ounce deposit. Cabral's soil anomaly spans 7 kilometers versus 1.2 kilometers at Tocantinzinho, while the company has identified 50 exploration targets compared to six at the neighboring mine.Recent drilling has delivered impressive results, including 12 meters at 27 grams per tonne and 49 meters at 2 grams per tonne across multiple new discoveries. Following a successful $15 million CAD financing, the company has mobilized multiple drill rigs to advance various targets toward resource estimates.Carter has invested $2 million CAD personally, demonstrating management alignment while rejecting traditional dilutive financing models. The company expects a construction decision by mid-Q2 2025, with production targeted for mid-2026, positioning Cabral to generate cash flow for district-wide exploration while avoiding excessive shareholder dilution.View Cabral Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/cabral-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Jason Bontempo, Director & CEO of Gladiator MetalsRecording date: 28th May 2025Gladiator Metals (TSXV:GLAD) is positioning itself as a compelling copper exploration story in Canada's Yukon Territory, with CEO Jason Bontempo targeting significant value creation from the historically productive Whitehorse Copper Project. The company controls a 35-kilometer copper belt located adjacent to Whitehorse city, combining proven geological potential with exceptional infrastructure access that distinguishes it from typical remote mining ventures.The project carries substantial historical precedent, building on Hudbay Mining's successful operations from 1967 to 1982, which extracted 10.5 million tons at 1.5% copper and nearly one gram per ton of gold before closure due to copper price decline. Bontempo acquired the entire copper belt through his relationship with drilling contractors Jim and Rob Coyne of Kluane Drilling, providing Gladiator with unprecedented access to what he describes as the first dedicated technical team and funding the project has received in 40 years.Chief Geologist Marcus Harden's due diligence revealed significant near-surface copper potential, with Bontempo noting "After due diligence, Marcus came back and said, hey I think I see around 15 to 20 million tons at 1.5% copper from the surface." The flagship Cowley Park prospect serves as the primary focus, with recent drilling intercepting impressive high-grade cores ranging from 15 to 30 meters running 2-8% copper.Gladiator maintains a strong financial foundation with C$15 million in cash treasury supporting a comprehensive 30,000-meter drilling program, while trading at a C$40 million market capitalization. The company has established community partnerships, signing a capacity funding agreement with the Kwanlin Dün (KDFN) First Nations in October 2024, with comprehensive partnership agreements expected by year-end.Bontempo targets over 100 million tons at above 1% copper across the belt, with plans to deliver a maiden resource estimate in Q1 2026. The company's strategic position near Whitehorse provides year-round operational capability and cost efficiencies, with drilling costs averaging C$200 per diamond meter—significantly below industry benchmarks for remote locations.View Gladiator Metals' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/gladiator-metalsSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Victor Cantore, President & CEO of Amex Exploration Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/amex-exploration-tsxvamx-quebec-gold-developer-evaluates-pfs-option-for-16moz-perron-project-6683Recording date: 28th May 2025AMEX Exploration Inc. (TSXV:AMX) has delivered a transformational resource upgrade that positions the company for rapid advancement to gold production in Quebec's prolific Abitibi Greenstone Belt. The updated mineral resource estimate reveals 1.615 million ounces in measured and indicated categories at 6.14 g/t, representing a remarkable 172% increase over the 2024 estimate with a 43% grade improvement.The flagship Champagne Zone forms the production core with 831,000 ounces at an exceptional 16.20 g/t, supported by an additional 128,000 inferred ounces at 9.83 g/t. This high-grade foundation enables CEO Victor Cantore's strategic pivot toward cash flow generation while maintaining exploration activities across 197 square kilometers of prospective land.AMEX's production strategy leverages unique advantages that distinguish it from typical development projects. Located near the historic mining town of Normétal, the project benefits from existing infrastructure, skilled workforce, and multiple toll milling options throughout the region. The underground mining approach requires minimal surface infrastructure, accelerating permitting timelines compared to open-pit operations.Management has outlined an aggressive two-year timeline to production, beginning with an updated preliminary economic assessment within 60 days, followed by a feasibility study focused on toll milling operations. This phased approach generates early cash flows while advancing full mine development, supporting Cantore's anti-dilutive growth model that minimizes shareholder dilution through operational cash flow rather than repeated equity raises.Strategic validation comes through Eldorado Gold's 9.9% ownership, providing technical expertise from their similar high-grade Lamaque operation. The partnership strengthens AMEX's transition from exploration to production while maintaining management independence.With total resources of 2.313 million ounces and exceptional grades enabling economic toll milling across wide geographic areas, AMEX exemplifies the industry trend toward high-grade, capital-efficient operations that maximize returns per ounce while building sustainable long-term cash flows.View AMEX Exploration's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/amex-explorationSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Shane Williams, President & CEO, West Red Lake Gold MinesOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/west-red-lake-gold-mines-tsxvwrlg-bulk-sample-results-validate-mine-restart-plan-7088Recording date: 23 May 2025West Red Lake Gold Mines has achieved a significant operational milestone with the successful restart of production at its flagship Madsen mine in Canada's prolific Red Lake mining district. Following an intensive 18-month preparation period, the company secured board approval after completing a comprehensive bulk sampling program that validated resource models and operational capabilities.The bulk sampling program delivered exceptional technical results, achieving 96% grade reconciliation across three mining areas and 94% mill recovery rates. These metrics exceeded industry standards and provided robust validation of the company's geological modeling, particularly impressive given the deposit's complex geology that had challenged previous operators. President and CEO Shane Williams emphasized that the program confirmed "the resource and the work we've done is fully into place as expected."Economic conditions have dramatically improved project viability, with current gold prices around $3,300 compared to the $1,600 used in original feasibility studies. This price environment has enabled the company to reduce cut-off grades to 1-2.5 grams, effectively doubling minable material and providing substantial operating margins. Williams noted that previous operators produced gold at just under $2,500 per ounce despite operational challenges, highlighting the significant margin potential at current prices.The operation benefits from scalable infrastructure, with mill capacity expandable from 800 to 1,200 tonnes per day through minimal modifications. Recent infrastructure improvements include shaft renovation, 24/7 underground hauling capabilities with larger trucks, and a connection drift linking mining portals that eliminates surface transportation constraints.Ongoing drilling programs have identified new high-grade zones, particularly in the South Austin area, enabling lateral expansion rather than expensive deep development. With 150,000 ounces of drill inventory providing two years of mine planning visibility, the company has established a solid foundation for sustained production growth in one of Canada's premier gold mining districts.Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/west-red-lake-gold-mines-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
In this episode, we have a returning guest who appeared in Jan 2025 (Episode 497), Juan Carlos, President and CEO of Canstar Resources, a TSX-Venture listed junior miner focused on mineral exploration in Newfoundland, Canada. Juan has 15 years of experience in executive management, capital markets, finance, and commercial and strategic development. Juan gives us an update on proceedings since we last spoke, their new JV agreement, VMS deposits, and why they are attractive propositions, their recently launched deep geophysics survey update, and discusses their unique board and what they bring to the company and much more. KEY TAKEAWAYS CanStar Resources has entered a significant joint venture with VMS Mining Corporation, which involves a phased investment totalling $11.5 million for a 60% ownership stake in CanStar's VMS assets. This structure is designed to be non-dilutive for existing shareholders. The Buckins District in Newfoundland is historically significant for its high-grade VMS deposits. CanStar's projects, Buckins and Mary March, are located in this area, which has seen limited exploration using modern geophysical techniques, suggesting substantial untapped potential. CanStar is also exploring its Golden Bay project, which has significant antimony potential. Antimony is critical for military and high-tech applications, and its rising demand presents a strategic opportunity for the company. CanStar plans to advance its exploration programs at both the Buckins and Mary March projects, with ongoing geophysical surveys and drilling activities. The company aims to execute its strategy efficiently in 2025, leveraging its partnerships and expertise to drive discoveries. BEST MOMENTS "CanStar Resources is a TSX-V listed junior that's focused on transforming neglected mineral systems into strategic assets for the next supercycle." "This joint venture... is non-dilutive and it's serious capital in the ground on an accelerated basis, really looking for a tier one discovery." "VMS deposits are very interesting in part because they're polymetallic... they give you economic flexibility and exposure to not only critical metals, but also precious metals." "The best place to look for a new deposit is in the shadow of the headframe." "Antimony is a mineral that is absolutely critical for military and high technology applications." VALUABLE RESOURCES Mail: rob@mining-international.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/ X: https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast Web: http://www.mining-international.org This episode is sponsored by Hawcroft, leaders in property risk management since 1992. They offer: Insurance risk surveys recognised as an industry standard Construction risk reviews Asset criticality assessments and more Working across over 600 sites globally, Hawcroft supports mining, processing, smelting, power, refining, ports, and rail operations. For bespoke property risk management services, visit www.hawcroft.com GUEST SOCIALS LinkedIn: ○ Canstar: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/canstar-resources ○ JCG: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcgironjr/ ○ Will Upshur: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willupshur/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/Canstar_Rox Contacts: JCG: jc@canstarresources.com Will: will@canstarresources.com https://www.canstarresources.com/ ABOUT THE HOST Rob Tyson is the Founder and Director of Mining International Ltd, a leading global recruitment and headhunting consultancy based in the UK specialising in all areas of mining across the globe from first-world to third-world countries from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. We source, headhunt, and discover new and top talent through a targeted approach and search methodology and have a proven track record in sourcing and positioning exceptional candidates into our clients' organisations in any mining discipline or level. Mining International provides a transparent, informative, and trusted consultancy service to our candidates and clients to help them develop their careers and business goals and objectives in this ever-changing marketplace. CONTACT METHOD rob@mining-international.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/ Podcast Description Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people’s experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/ This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
Interview with Pascal Hamelin, President & CEO of Abcourt Mines Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/abcourt-mines-tsxvabi-self-funded-high-grade-gold-mill-expands-4922Recording date: 20th May 2025Abcourt Mines (TSXV:ABI) is positioning itself as an emerging gold producer in Quebec, with plans to pour first gold from its 100%-owned Sleeping Giant mine in the second half of 2025. Led by President and CEO Pascal Hamelin, the company has transformed its strategy over the past three years, shifting focus from its unprofitable Elder mine to the high-grade Sleeping Giant project.The Sleeping Giant mine boasts approximately 400,000 ounces of gold resources at an impressive grade of 8 g/t, split evenly between indicated and inferred categories. With significant exploration potential to the east and at depth, Abcourt aims to expand this resource to one million ounces over the next two years using three drill rigs currently operating at the site.Financially, the company has secured an $8 million USD loan from Nebari and is finalizing additional equity financing to complete its funding requirements. Initial production is targeted at 10,000 ounces in the first year, ramping up to 30,000 ounces annually over a six-year mine life. With all-in costs projected at $1,400 USD per ounce, the operation promises substantial margins in the current gold price environment.The project benefits from existing infrastructure, including an operational mill that will initially run at only 40% capacity, creating future expansion opportunities. Multiple mining stopes are already prepared for immediate production once financing is finalized and workers are hired.Abcourt's strategy prioritizes extending the mine life before expanding production. As Hamelin explained: "Our focus will be 80% of the free cash flow, we'll go on Sleeping Giant to make sure that we're extending the life of mine."Beyond Sleeping Giant, the company holds a 500-square-kilometer land package with several earlier-stage assets that could eventually provide additional mill feed. With its modest market capitalization of approximately C$40 million, Abcourt presents a potential re-rating opportunity as it executes its transition to producer status during a favorable gold price environment.View Abcourt Mines' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/abcourt-mines-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Simon Marcotte, President & CEO of Northern Superior Resources Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/northern-superior-resources-tsxvsup-consolidating-next-big-gold-camp-6910Recording date: 15th May 2025Northern Superior Resources (SUP) presents a compelling investment opportunity through its strategic consolidation of the Chibougamou Gold Camp in Quebec. The company has successfully transformed what was once five separate companies into a two-player district alongside major partner IAMGold, creating critical mass around a combined 12.4 million ounce resource base.The investment thesis centers on Northern Superior's superior asset quality at Filibert, which offers 15-18% higher grades (1.1 g/t) compared to IAMGold's flagship Nelligan deposit (0.95 g/t). More importantly, optimization analysis demonstrates that minor cut-off adjustments could improve Filibert's grade by 40% while retaining 90% of the ounces. This grade advantage becomes crucial for bulk tonnage operations where early cash flow determines project viability and payback periods.Recent exploration success reinforces the value proposition. Northern Superior's latest discovery of 18 meters grading 2.5 g/t gold, including 5 meters at 7 g/t, opens significant underground potential beneath existing open pit resources. This follows the successful model at Detour Lake, where underground expansion has delivered exceptional profitability through higher-grade material.The timing is optimal. IAMGold is approaching "cruise control" at their Côte Lake operation and management has indicated their focus will shift to Chibougamou development, targeting 15+ million ounces across the camp. With all assets within trucking distance and designed to feed a central processing facility, the camp's proximity economics create substantial synergies.Multiple value creation paths exist: organic development, optimization partnerships with IAMGold, or potential takeout as the camp advances toward development. Given junior gold stocks trading at historic lows relative to gold prices and the structural advantages Northern Superior has built within this emerging district, the company offers leveraged exposure to both the macro gold thesis and micro execution excellence.—View Nothern Superior Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/northern-superior-resources-incSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Malcolm Dorsey, President & CEO of Torr Metals Inc.Recording date: 13th May 2025Torr Metals (TSXV:TMET) is a Canadian exploration company preparing for its maiden drill program at the Kolos Project in southern British Columbia—a road-accessible copper-gold porphyry target located near major producing mines like New Afton and Highland Valley. With strong early indicators including high-grade surface samples and a 1,300m x 800m geophysical anomaly at the Bertha Zone, Torr is targeting up to 3,000 meters of drilling in 2025.The Kolos Project benefits from exceptional infrastructure: it lies along Highway 5, 30 minutes from a lab in Kamloops, and requires no seasonal camp. This accessibility dramatically reduces costs and supports fast assay turnaround. CEO Malcolm Dorsey emphasizes that Kolos exhibits “a very large zone of hydrothermal alteration and mineralization,” consistent with porphyry systems sought by major miners.Torr's land position is strategically located within a competitive mining district. Majors like Teck, New Gold, Hudbay, Fortescue, and Boliden have recently staked nearby, signaling rising interest in the area. With New Afton and Highland Valley approaching end-of-life within 6–15 years, a discovery at Kolos could serve as a future feedstock source for local mills.Beyond Kolos, Torr offers exploration optionality with two additional projects: the Filion Gold Project in Ontario, featuring high-grade historic samples, and the Latham copper-gold project in northern BC, both aligned with the company's low-cost, highway-accessible strategy.With just 42 million shares outstanding, a ~$6M market cap, and 25% insider ownership, Torr Metals provides investors with high-leverage exposure to copper-gold discovery. As electrification drives long-term copper demand and supply tightens, Torr is positioned as an emerging junior in a region that majors are watching closely.Sign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Juan Garcia Valledor, GM Spain of Pan Global Resources Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/pan-global-resources-tsxvpgz-poised-to-thrive-in-the-coming-copper-boom-6794Recording date: 13th May 2025Pan Global Resources (TSXV: PGZ) is making significant progress on its copper, tin, and gold exploration portfolio across Spain. Led by an experienced mine-building team, the company is advancing multiple promising projects with a clear development roadmap.The flagship La Romana deposit continues to expand, now extending 1.7 km in strike length with consistent copper and tin mineralization. With nearly 190 drill holes completed, Pan Global is approaching a maiden resource estimation expected in 2025, followed by a Preliminary Economic Assessment in 2026. Company leadership is confident that "La Romana is clearly in the way to be a mine."Recent drilling at La Pantoja, 500 meters west of La Romana, intersected high-grade copper (1.5%) and tin (0.1%), potentially extending the resource footprint. Meanwhile, exploration at the northern Cármenes and Profunda projects has revealed impressive gold values exceeding 3g/t over 37 meters and copper samples grading over 5%.Pan Global's strategic advantage comes from its location in Andalusia, one of Europe's most mining-friendly jurisdictions with supportive local communities and administration. The Spanish government is developing a new mining exploration framework, with Pan Global contributing to the process.The company's approach differs from typical grassroots explorers, with a management team that includes multiple mining engineers preparing for development phases. Environmental and social groundwork is already underway, reflecting the company's commitment to responsible practices.With 7,000 meters of drilling planned for 2025 and multiple high-potential targets within trucking distance of each other, Pan Global envisions potentially consolidating several deposits into a standalone mining operation, with alternative options including toll milling at nearby facilities.As Europe seeks secure sources of critical minerals for electrification and decarbonization, Pan Global's multi-metal portfolio in an EU-aligned jurisdiction offers a compelling investment case amid structural supply constraints for copper and increasing demand for tin in technology applications.View Pan Global Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/pan-global-resourcesSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Ian Harris, President & CEO of Outcrop Silver & Gold Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/outcrop-silver-tsxvocg-why-eric-sprott-holds-199-of-this-high-grade-silver-opportunity-6786Recording date: 12th May 2025Outcrop Silver & Gold (TSXV: OCG) is advancing one of the highest-grade primary silver projects globally, with CEO Ian Harris leading a disciplined approach to resource expansion and valuation growth.The company currently holds 37 million ounces of silver and aims to reach at least 60 million ounces in the near term, with ambitions to exceed 100 million ounces within the next 18-24 months. This expansion is supported by a fully-funded $12 million drill program, which has already delivered promising results including intercepts of "20 meters at 992 grams per tonne silver."Harris emphasizes a strategic approach that decouples valuation from volatile silver prices, focusing instead on creating measurable returns through resource expansion for every dollar invested. This disciplined stance aims to mitigate dilution risks while ensuring consistent growth regardless of market fluctuations.The company is pursuing a "starter-scale" development strategy, planning a smaller initial operation to reduce capital requirements and accelerate cash flow generation. This approach mirrors successful models in the gold sector, providing a more accessible pathway to production in today's challenging financial environment.The broader macroeconomic backdrop offers supporting factors for silver demand, including global debt accumulation and shifts away from the US dollar toward alternative assets. These trends potentially strengthen the fundamental case for silver investments over the medium-to-long term.In the current M&A landscape, Harris notes that acquisitions primarily reward producing assets rather than exploration-stage projects, underlining Outcrop's strategy to advance quickly toward initial production to enhance its strategic appeal.With strong exploration results underpinning near-term valuation catalysts and a clear pathway to growth, Outcrop Silver & Gold represents a disciplined approach to silver resource development in a market increasingly favorable to precious metals investments.View Outcrop Silver & Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/outcrop-silver-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with Mark Selby, CEO of Canada NickelOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/canada-nickel-tsxvcnc-crawford-project-advances-with-feed-completion-eyes-2025-construction-6791Recording date: 13th May 2025Canada Nickel Corporation (TSX: CNC) presents a compelling investment opportunity as it advances North America's most promising nickel project in the face of unprecedented government support and institutional capital returning to the mining sector. CEO Mark Selby's leadership has positioned the company to capitalize on what he describes as "the world's largest nickel sulfide district" in Timmins, Ontario, with the flagship Crawford project now approaching a construction decision after completing its FEED study and progressing through permitting.The company's innovative financing strategy has set it apart during challenging capital markets, executing its fourth successful bridge financing arrangement to avoid dilutive equity raises while maintaining project momentum. Recent financing totaling $39-40 million, including a groundbreaking partnership with TTN First Nation, demonstrates management's ability to access capital through non-traditional channels. This approach recognizes the fundamental shift in mining finance, where actively managed funds have "shrunk very dramatically over the last 15 years" and become concentrated in gold, copper, and silver.Political tailwinds have never been stronger for critical mineral projects in North America. The Trump administration's supply chain security focus, combined with Canada's new government under Carney promising to accelerate critical mineral development, creates multiple funding pathways for projects like Crawford. The Canadian government has established numerous funding programs worth billions, though deployment has been slow until now. With both governments prioritizing critical mineral security and upcoming USMCA renegotiations, Canada Nickel is positioned to benefit from what Selby describes as "monster bold steps forward" in government support.Unlike many nickel companies dependent solely on the EV market, Canada Nickel has strategically designed its operations for market flexibility. The company can direct 100% of production to the stainless steel and alloy markets, which continue to show strong growth (China's 300 series stainless production up 12% year-over-year), while maintaining optionality for EV sales through its Samsung SDI offtake agreement. This diversification provides crucial revenue stability as some automotive manufacturers, including Honda, reassess their EV timelines.Perhaps most significantly for near-term share price performance, generalist institutional investors are returning to mining after a decade-long absence. Selby reports that recent conferences included multiple meetings with generalist funds, representing a fundamental shift from resource-only investors. These funds see relative value in a sector trading at "5 and 10% of NPV" compared to broader markets at high multiples. When generalist capital moves from "0.05% of assets to 0.1% to 0.25%," it creates what Selby describes as "a tidal wave of capital."The company has outlined a comprehensive $3 billion funding package with multiple committed sources including $500 million from Export Development Canada, $600 million in refundable tax credits, $100 million from Samsung, and additional potential funding from European agencies and Canadian government programs. With permitting on track for year-end completion and detailed engineering advancing, Canada Nickel is positioned to make its final investment decision and benefit from first-mover advantage in one of the world's most promising nickel districts.For investors, Canada Nickel represents exposure to critical mineral supply chain security, innovative financing structures, and the convergence of government support with returning institutional interest—all while maintaining operational flexibility that provides downside protection in volatile markets.—View Canada Nickel's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/canada-nickelSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Interview with George Salamis, President & CEO of Integra Resources Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/integra-resources-tsxvitr-strong-q1-gold-production-61m-cash-position-7023Recording date: 8th May 2025Integra Resources is transforming from a development company into a U.S.-based gold producer following its acquisition of Nevada's Florida Canyon mine in late 2024. The company now balances a producing asset with two development-stage projects, including its flagship Delamar project in Idaho.At Florida Canyon, Integra has launched a strategic 10,000-meter drill program targeting mine life extension. The campaign focuses on previously underexplored areas including historical mine dumps, zones between existing pits, and lateral extensions. CEO George Salamis describes these targets as "low-hanging fruit" with potential to consolidate multiple smaller pits into larger operations.A key advantage in Integra's approach is self-funding exploration through operational cash flow from Florida Canyon, reducing dependency on capital markets and avoiding shareholder dilution. This financial independence allows the company to execute multi-phase exploration without needing additional equity raises.The current gold price environment creates opportunities to reprocess previously uneconomic low-grade material that was mined when gold traded at $1,000-$1,200 per ounce. Salamis believes the updated resource estimate expected by early 2026 could extend mine life from six to potentially eight or nine years.Beyond immediate operations, Integra controls a highly prospective 10-kilometer trend and plans to begin regional drilling in late 2025, synthesizing decades of historical data with expert input from former exploration managers.The company is benefiting from a favorable U.S. policy environment that increasingly views domestic gold production as strategically important. Salamis reports unprecedented regulatory support, with officials suggesting ways to accelerate permitting from "five to seven years" down to "a year or two."This dual approach of extending existing operations while exploring regional potential positions Integra to appeal to both production-focused investors seeking cash flow and margins, and exploration-oriented shareholders looking for discovery upside in a supportive regulatory environment.View Integra Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/integra-resourcesSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com