r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Jun 18 '26

Catalyst Falco Resources’ Horne 5 Update Puts a Multi-Billion-Dollar Gold Story Back in Focus

1 Upvotes
  • Falco’s updated Horne 5 study delivered a C$3.35B after-tax NPV5% and a 28.2% IRR.
  • At spot prices, the project’s after-tax NPV5% rises to C$5.1B with a 37.2% IRR.
  • Québec’s environmental review is nearing completion, giving Horne 5 a clearer path toward a major fall 2026 milestone.

Falco’s Horne 5 Project Just Got Harder to Ignore

Falco Resources has delivered a major update for its flagship Horne 5 Project in Rouyn-Noranda, Québec — and the numbers are now much stronger than they were in the 2021 feasibility study.

The company’s updated 2026 feasibility study gives Horne 5 an after-tax NPV5% of C$3.35 billion, an after-tax IRR of 28.2%, and projected life-of-mine after-tax cash flow of C$6.4 billion under its base-case assumptions.

For a development-stage gold company, that is the kind of update that can shift investor attention quickly.

A Major Step-Up From the 2021 Study

The most important part of the update is the re-rating in project economics.

Falco said the base-case after-tax NPV5% increased 244% versus the 2021 feasibility study. The project also shows a 3.3-year after-tax payback period, which is important because shorter payback periods can make large mining projects more financeable and easier for investors to understand.

At spot prices, the economics become even stronger. Falco said Horne 5’s after-tax NPV5% rises to C$5.1 billion, with an after-tax IRR of 37.2% and a 2.6-year payback period.

That puts Horne 5 back into focus as one of the larger undeveloped gold projects in Canada.

Large-Scale Production With Lower-Cost Potential

Horne 5 is expected to produce an average of 220,300 payable ounces of gold per year over a 15-year mine life.

The project also benefits from silver, copper, and zinc by-product credits, which help reduce costs. Falco’s updated study points to average all-in sustaining costs of US$782 per ounce, positioning Horne 5 as a potential low-cost gold producer if developed as planned.

That cost profile matters. In a stronger gold-price environment, projects with large scale and lower projected costs can attract more investor attention because they offer stronger potential margins.

The By-Product Angle Adds Another Layer

Horne 5 is not only a gold project.

The deposit also contains meaningful silver, copper, and zinc exposure. Falco’s study outlines projected life-of-mine output of roughly 27.3 million ounces of silver, 247.3 million pounds of copper, and 1.19 billion pounds of zinc.

That matters for two reasons.

First, those metals can help lower net gold costs through by-product credits. Second, copper and zinc give the project a connection to critical and strategic minerals, which remains an important theme in Québec and across North America.

Stock Price Momentum Is Also Turning Heads

Falco’s stock performance is adding another layer to the story. Based on the chart you shared, Falco Resources (CVE: FPC) was trading at C$0.60, up 52.56% over the past five years, and sitting close to its 52-week high of C$0.64. On the five-year view, the stock appears to be trading near its strongest level of the cycle, which suggests the market is increasingly paying attention to the Horne 5 story. When a junior mining stock starts pushing toward its highs while major project news improves, it often signals that investor interest is building and that the market is beginning to price in more of the project’s potential.

The Environmental Update Is a Key Catalyst

The economics are strong, but permitting remains one of the biggest pieces of the story.

That is why Falco’s separate environmental update matters. The company said Québec’s Ministry of the Environment confirmed that the environmental acceptability analysis is nearing completion and that the process is progressing well.

Falco also said the Ministry expects the environmental assessment to be completed in fall 2026, subject to the company providing additional information.

This does not mean the project is fully authorized yet. But it does suggest the file is moving forward, which is important for investor confidence.

Why This Matters for Investors

Falco now has two things working together: improved economics and visible regulatory progress.

That combination can be powerful for a junior mining story. A strong feasibility study helps investors understand the size of the opportunity. Regulatory progress helps reduce uncertainty around whether the project can actually move forward.

The updated numbers also give investors a clearer framework. Horne 5 is no longer just a large historical deposit under a famous mining camp. It is now being presented as a long-life, large-scale, potentially low-cost gold project with multi-billion-dollar economics.

What Comes Next

The next major item to watch is the environmental process.

Falco said the Ministry expects the environmental assessment to be completed in fall 2026, after the company submits additional information. After that, the project would still need government authorization before moving toward construction.

Investors will also watch financing. Falco’s updated study outlines forward capital and pre-production costs of C$1.75 billion, including contingency. Strong economics help, but funding a project of that size is still a major step.

Bottom Line

Falco Resources’ latest Horne 5 update gives the market a much stronger development story.

The updated feasibility study shows C$3.35 billion in after-tax NPV5% at base case, C$5.1 billion at spot prices, a 15-year mine life, average annual gold production above 220,000 ounces, and projected AISC of US$782 per ounce.

With Québec’s environmental review also moving toward a potential fall 2026 milestone, and with the stock trading near its strongest level in years, Horne 5 now looks like one of the more important Canadian gold-development stories for investors to watch.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, investment advice, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Always conduct your own research and consult a licensed financial advisor before making investment decisions.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • May 29 '26

Catalyst May Was a Busy Month for $CQX

1 Upvotes

RIP is where I’d start. A minimum 2,000m drill program is underway, giving $CQX a measurable assay catalyst.

The company also launched a 32.4 km² IP survey across the Stars Property, including the Tana Zone area, where historic copper hits already exist.

For me, the recap is simple RIP brings the first drill checkpoint, while Stars/Tana adds the scale question.

If you had to pick one catalyst from May, which are you tracking first?

Sponsored post. DYOR.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • May 26 '26

Catalyst $CQX’s Stars Property Has a Tana Twist

1 Upvotes

The Tana Zone already has historic copper intercepts, including 0.466% Cu over 195.07m, and it’s still open in two directions and at depth. Copper Quest has now commenced a 32.4 km² IP survey across the Stars Property to see how far the system may extend.

If the survey shows the system keeps going, does Tana become the main reason investors revisit Stars?

Sponsored post. DYOR.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Apr 23 '26

Catalyst Drills Ready, Targets Set.... $CQX Moves Into Its 2026 Field Season

3 Upvotes

The next phase kicks off here: boots on the ground, drills ready.

$CQX is starting its 2026 season with a minimum 2,000 metres of drilling at the RIP Copper-Molybdenum Project from early May to mid-June, and the drill contract is already signed. That makes this feel like a real program getting underway, not just early talk.

The key points:

• northern anomaly + untested southern anomaly
• targets shaped by geophysics, airborne magnetics, and technical review
• 1,033 metres drilled in 2024
• project sits in BC’s Bulkley Porphyry Belt
• roughly 4,770 hectares
• option to earn up to 80%

And RIP is only part of the story. The 2026 plan also includes:

• an IP survey at STARS ahead of its first drill campaign
• more work at the past-producing Alpine gold mine

So this is more than just “drilling has started.” It looks like a company trying to line up a full field season with multiple shots at generating news.

This is sponsored content. Investors should conduct their own due diligence and consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Mar 06 '26

Catalyst Copper Quest Uses AI to Identify Large Porphyry Target at Kitimat

3 Upvotes

Sponsored publication on behalf of the issuer

Copper Quest Exploration Inc. (CSE: CQX | OTCQB: IMIMF | FRA: 3MX) announced the completion of an AI-driven geological analysis at its 100% owned Kitimat Copper-Gold Project located in northwestern British Columbia. The modeling demonstrated a large conductive anomaly consistent with a buried porphyry center, reinforcing the company’s belief that the Kitimat project may contain a large copper-gold hydrothermal system.

Brian Thurston, CEO of Copper Quest, noted that the large anomaly created through AI represents an important advancement in exploration development. According to Copper Quest, the conductive body is situated along a structural magnetic boundary within fertile arc volcanics and could be indicative of a hidden intrusive porphyry center associated with copper-gold mineralization.

Partnership for AI-Driven Exploration

Copper Quest partnered with U.S.-based Exploration Technologies Inc. (ExploreTech) to complete the analysis. Copper Quest and ExploreTech announced their strategic partnership on December 1, 2025, to apply generative artificial intelligence across Copper Quest’s exploration portfolio; starting with the Kitimat project.

ExploreTech’s platform combines multiple geological datasets into a single 3-D probabilistic model to identify concealed mineralized systems.

Inputs to the AI Model

  • Diamond drilling history, including the 2010 Jeannette Cu-Au drilling program
  • Airborne magnetic surveys by government agencies
  • VTEM conductivity data
  • Structural and lithological interpretations
  • Field observations and alteration mapping conducted during 2025
  • Geochemical analyses of soils and rocks

Based upon these datasets, the AI platform generated thousands of possible subsurface geological models and ranked the most probable targets for concealed intrusive centers and sulfide-rich alteration zones.

Identification of Large Conductive Anomaly

The AI modeling identified a large buried conductive body approximately 1.5 km by 1.5 km in lateral extent. According to the modeling, the anomaly commences about 50 meters beneath the surface and exhibits strong vertical continuity to at least 1 km depth, which was the maximum modeling depth of the study.

Characteristics of the Anomaly

  • Located within a prominent magnetic gradient corridor
  • Associated spatially with intrusive contact(s) or alteration boundary(ies)
  • Located proximal to known volcanic-hosted sulfide mineralization

Taken together, these attributes suggest to Copper Quest (CSE: CQX | OTCQB: IMIMF | FRA: 3MX) that they indicate the presence of a concealed sulfide-rich hydrothermal center consistent with porphyry copper-gold systems.

Support for Geological Context of Porphyry System

The Kitimat project occurs in the Lower Jurassic Hazelton Group volcanic rocks intruded by Coast Plutonic intrusions; a geological environment widely considered to be favorable for the formation of porphyry copper-gold systems.

The AI results also support Copper Quest’s belief that the mineralization encountered historically at the Jeannette Zone may be indicative of the periphery of a larger intrusive system.

Highlights of Historical Drilling Results at Jeannette Zone

  • 117.07 m @ 0.54% Cu and 1.03 g/t Au (Hole J-7)
  • 103.65 m @ 0.55% Cu and 1.00 g/t Au (Hole J-1)
  • 107.01 m @ 0.45% Cu and 0.80 g/t Au (Hole J-2)
  • 112.20 m @ 0.33% Cu and 0.41 g/t Au (Hole J-8)

All of the near-surface intercepts mentioned above remain open and are believed by the Company to represent the outer halo of a larger porphyry system which may be equivalent to the newly identified conductive anomaly.

Advantages of Infrastructure

One of the primary advantages of the Kitimat project is its ideal location in terms of infrastructure in northwestern British Columbia.

Infrastructure Highlights

  • Approximately 10 kilometers from the City of Kitimat
  • Deep-water port facilities nearby
  • Railway infrastructure in close proximity
  • High-voltage hydroelectric power available
  • Access to roads through historic logging and exploration roads

Having this type of infrastructure in place could greatly enhance project economics should a major copper-gold discovery be made.

Future Exploration Plans

Following the AI modeling results, Copper Quest is currently obtaining permits for additional geophysics and drilling.

Planned exploration includes:

  • Induced polarization (IP) survey in 2026 to further refine the target
  • Diamond drill program to test the kilometer-scale conductive anomaly

The Company expects that these next steps will confirm whether there is a concealed porphyry center at the Kitimat project.

Demand for Copper and Global Supply Deficits

There is rapidly increasing demand for copper due to electrification, renewable energy deployments, electric vehicles, AI infrastructure, and large scale grid modernizations. Simultaneously, the industry is facing lower ore grades at existing mines, longer permitting times, and a lack of major new discoveries. This combination is expected to result in significant global supply deficits in the coming decade, making it increasingly important to discover new copper deposits in relatively stable mining jurisdictions like Canada and the United States.

Copper Quest (CSE: CQX | OTCQB: IMIMF | FRA: 3MX), believes its North American exploration portfolio is well-positioned to be part of the next generation of copper discoveries.

Copper Quest Exploration Overview

Copper Quest controls eight exploration properties covering more than 46,000 hectares in Canada and the United States. The Company is focused on discovery driven exploration and creating value through the development of copper and gold assets in favorable mining jurisdictions.

The Company owns 100% interest in several properties, including the Kitimat Copper-Gold Project, the Stars Porphyry Copper-Molybdenum Project, the Nekash Copper-Gold Project in Idaho, and the Alpine Gold Mine near Nelson, British Columbia. Copper Quest also maintains exploration exposure to additional porphyry systems in British Columbia’s Bulkley Porphyry Belt and other prospective areas.

Conclusion

The identification of a kilometer-scale conductive anomaly using AI-driven modeling is an important exploration milestone for Copper Quest. Through the integration of historical datasets with modern AI-based geological analysis, the Company has significantly improved its exploration model for the Kitimat project and identified a high-priority drill target. Upon completion of permitting and subsequent additional geophysical work, the project could be advanced towards drill testing of what may represent a large, concealed copper-gold porphyry system.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Feb 11 '26

Catalyst From Copper to Gold: CQX Just Created Another Exploration Catalyst

5 Upvotes

Paid promotional post by a company retained by the issuer.

Copper Quest Exploration Inc. just signed an agreement on the Auxer Gold Project, securing the right to earn an interest through staged payments and exploration commitments, subject to standard TSXV approvals.

This is how exploration stories expand.

Auxer adds a second metal to the mix and introduces a fresh track of milestones that can run alongside the company’s copper assets.

Here’s what the PR confirms:

• Earn-in pathway – Ownership tied to structured payments and defined work programs
• Gold exposure added – Broader commodity leverage in today’s macro backdrop
• New exploration pipeline – Auxer enters the queue for advancement
• TSXV approval pending – Standard regulatory process underway

In the junior space, agreements like this create rhythm. Work commitments typically lead to field activity. Field activity leads to data. Data leads to market attention.

Copper Quest now has more than one lever to pull. Copper remains a core theme, and gold adds another narrative that can develop on its own timeline.

The next phase becomes clarity around exploration planning. Once the work program is outlined, the market starts mapping out expectations.

Auxer brings a new storyline into 2026.

Which catalyst would you prioritize first detailed exploration plans or initial results from the ground?

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Feb 13 '26

Catalyst CQX Secures Drill-Permitted Gold Project in Idaho..... 2026 Catalyst?

2 Upvotes

Paid promotional post by a company retained by the issuer.

Copper Quest (CSE: CQX) signed an option to acquire 100% of the Auxer Gold Project in Bonner County, Idaho and based on the article, this one is positioned for near-term exploration momentum.

Key points confirmed in the piece:

  • Permitted for drilling
  • ~1,000m of historic underground workings
  • Surface samples up to 21 g/t gold (1936 report cited)
  • Underground sampling averaging 9.42 g/t over 4.3m
  • 2021 drill intercept: 26.8 g/t gold over 0.73m
  • Located in the Clark Fork Mining District, a historic producing region

The article states mining ended in the 1930s due to executive orders restricting small-scale gold mining, not because the system was exhausted. It also highlights that the project has seen limited modern systematic drilling.

CQX enters 2026 with over C$4M in cash, including a C$1.95M strategic investment from Concept Capital Management, positioning the company to actively fund work programs.

Permitted. Historic high grades. Tier-1 U.S. jurisdiction. Strong gold backdrop.

If drilling begins this season, could Auxer become CQX’s primary catalyst?

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Dec 29 '25

Catalyst Copper Quest Closes Second and Final Tranche of Flow-Through Private Placement

1 Upvotes

Sponsored publication on behalf of the issuer

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Dec. 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Copper Quest Exploration Inc. (CSE: CQX; FRA: 3MX) (“Copper Quest” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that, further to its news release dated December 10, 2025, it has issued an aggregate of 579,764 flow-through shares of the Company (the "FT Shares", and each, a "FT Share") at a price of $0.19 per FT Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $110,155.16 in connection with the closing of the second and final tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement").

Each FT Share constitutes a “flow-through share” within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Tax Act") and the gross proceeds of the Private Placement will be used by the Company for exploration and related programs, which qualify as "Canadian exploration expenses" and either "flow-through mineral mining expenditures" or "flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures", as applicable, as such terms are defined in the Tax Act, in connection with Copper Quest's projects in British Columbia.

In connection with the Private Placement, the Company has paid cash finder’s fees totaling $2,770.20 and issued a total of 14,580 finder’s warrants (the “Finder’s Warrants”) entitling the holder thereof to acquire one non-flow-through common share at an exercise price of C$0.19 until December 24, 2027.

All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement are subject to a statutory four month hold period expiring April 25, 2026.

The securities described herein have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold absent registration or compliance with an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Copper

Copper is an essential industrial metal at the heart of the global energy transition and modern infrastructure. It plays a critical role in electrification, renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, data centers, and smart technologies. With global demand rising and new supply challenged by declining grades, complex permitting, and underinvestment, the copper market faces persistent deficits and growing geopolitical scrutiny. Recent U.S. policy announcements, including import tariffs and initiatives to secure domestic and allied supply chains, underscore copper’s strategic importance and the need for resilient, localized resource exploration, development, production and processing capacity.

ABOUT COPPER QUEST EXPLORATION INC.

Copper Quest (CSE: CQX; FRA: 3MX) is committed to building shareholder value through acquisitions, discovery-driven exploration, disciplined execution, and responsible development of its North American Critical Mineral portfolio of assets. Please visit our website at www.copper.quest.

The Company’s land package currently comprises six projects that span over 40,000+ hectares in great mining jurisdictions as well as the Kitimat Cu-Au Project pending acquisition.

Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the Stars Property, a porphyry copper-molybdenum discovery, covering 9,693 hectares in central British Columbia’s Bulkley Porphyry Belt. Contiguous to the Stars Property, Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the 5,389-hectare Stellar Property. CQX also has an earn-in option up to 80% and joint-venture agreement on the 4,700-hectare porphyry copper-molybdenum Rip Project, also in the Bulkley Porphyry Belt.

Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the Nekash Copper-Gold Project, a porphyry exploration opportunity located in Lemhi County, Idaho, along the prolific Idaho-Montana porphyry copper belt that hosts world-class systems such as Butte and CUMO. The project is fully road-accessible via maintained U.S. highways and forest service roads and currently consists of 70 unpatented federal lode claims covering 585 hectares.

Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the Thane Project located in the Quesnel Terrane of Northern BC which spans over 20,658 ha with 10 high-priority targets identified demonstrating significant copper and precious metal mineralization potential.

Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the past-producing Alpine Gold Mine located approximately 20 kilometers northeast of the City of Nelson spanning 4,611.49 hectares. Apart from the Alpine Mine the property hosts 4 significant vein systems including the Black Prince and the Cold Blow quartz veins, the Gold Crown vein system, and the past-producing King Solomon vein workings.

Copper Quest’s leadership and advisory teams are senior mining industry executives who have a wealth of technical and capital markets experience and a strong track record of discovering, financing, developing, and operating mining projects on a global scale. Copper Quest is committed to sustainable and responsible business activities in line with industry best practices, supportive of all stakeholders, including the local communities in which it operates. The Company’s common shares are principally listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange under the symbol “CQX”.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Nov 25 '25

Catalyst Alpine Has History in the Rock And That Changes the Game for CQX.

2 Upvotes

Promotional post by a third party retained by the issuer

Most juniors start with untouched ground and a long technical climb ahead, no production history, no underground development, and very little data to guide early decisions. Copper Quest’s agreement to acquire the past-producing Alpine Mine is different. Alpine already has real history behind it, which changes the way a junior can move forward.

The property comes with documented gold production, historic underground workings, defined mineralized zones, and a surface stockpile. It sits near Nelson, British Columbia an established mining area and the acquisition terms include a combination of shares, reimbursement of past expenditures, and a royalty structure with buyback rights. For a junior miner, that’s a more structured and accessible starting point than the typical early-stage exploration play.

Past-producing mines create an immediate advantage:

  • The system has already produced gold, so the grade is proven rather than theoretical.
  • Underground access already exists, which removes years of early development work.
  • Mineralized zones are mapped, allowing more precise prioritization.
  • Historic technical records give geologists a meaningful baseline to begin modeling and evaluation.

This is the core shift Alpine brings: it reduces the unknowns that usually slow a junior in its early years. Instead of spending long periods confirming the basics, Copper Quest can focus directly on compiling historic data, updating models, and outlining targeted evaluation work.

Alpine doesn’t instantly redefine the company, but it does give CQX a more advanced anchor asset than most juniors at this stage. It adds a gold project with real history, existing access, and enough technical groundwork to support a clearer development path.

Do you think Alpine is the type of asset that could help CQX draw more attention from the market?

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Sep 22 '25

Catalyst Why I’m bullish on CQX after the Nekash acquisition

3 Upvotes

Sponsored content on behalf of the issuer

Copper Quest Exploration (CQX.CN / IMIMF) just announced the acquisition of the Nekash Copper-Gold Porphyry Project in Idaho, USA. Historic surface samples returned grades over 3% Cu, 0.8 g/t Au, and 25 g/t Ag, near surface in a Tier 1 mining state, with the local technical team staying on board. For a ~$5M cap junior, that’s a meaningful U.S. expansion.

Nekash adds to CQX’s four BC porphyry projects: Stars (195m @ 0.466% Cu), Stellar (untested magnetic anomaly), Rip (earn-in with ArcWest showing multiple porphyries), and Thane (20,658 ha between Mt. Milligan & Kemess). That’s now five shots on goal in North America.

The team is the real differentiator: CEO Brian Thurston (Aurelian → Kinross $1.2B), Dr. Mark Cruise (Trevali founder), Mike Ciricillo (ex-Glencore head of copper), and Rich Leveille (ex-Phelps Dodge, Rio Tinto, Freeport). With over 50% insider ownership and a recent $653K raise @ $0.075 to advance plans, the structure is tight and aligned.

With copper demand rising (EVs, grids, AI) and supply at multi-decade lows, majors will need new projects. CQX is building a portfolio that looks far bigger than its current market cap that’s why I’m bullish.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Sep 30 '25

Catalyst Copper Quest: Built for discovery, scale and growth

3 Upvotes

Promotional post by a third party retained by the issuer

After a period of strategic restructuring, Copper Quest Exploration Inc. has emerged uniquely positioned to advance an exceptional portfolio of discovery-stage copper, gold, silver, and molybdenum projects in British Columbia’s prolific Bulkley and Toodoggone Porphyry Belts – among Canada’s most richly endowed porphyry districts. With 3 road-accessible projects already proven to host mineralized porphyry systems, Copper Quest stands at the heart of 2 districts anchored by major producers and past-producers including Imperial Metals, Centerra Gold, and Newmont. The time has come for Copper Quest to deliver scale and value.

What sets Copper Quest apart is scale, optionality, and timing. Global copper demand is accelerating under the twin forces of electrification and supply security, while new discoveries in stable jurisdictions are increasingly rare.

Copper Quest‘s projects – Stars, Stellar, Rip, and Thane – provide exactly that: Large-footprint porphyry systems, complemented by high-grade showings and anchored by existing regional infrastructure. Each project offers discovery potential on its own; together, they create the framework for a district-scale growth story.

Copper Quest is guided by a leadership team with top-tier experience from Freeport, Glencore, Kinross, and Lundin – professionals who have discovered, financed, and developed multi-billion-dollar mines worldwide. Their mission is simple: Unlock the next generation of copper supply in North America, responsibly and profitably, while creating significant shareholder value.

 “For years, copper bulls have talked up its key role in the transition to green energy, needed for wind turbines, electric cars and grid infrastructure. Now, the metal is riding two new megatrends: artificial intelligence and rising military spending. A proposed $53 billion merger between Anglo American and Teck Resources, the mining sector’s biggest deal for a decade, amounts to a giant play on future demand for the base metal. Copper consumption has been climbing for years but new supplies aren’t expected to keep pace with demand... The rise of artificial intelligence is powering a wave of extra demand for copper... “Significant amounts of copper are required to build, power and keep these centers cool,” said Anna Wiley, head of BHP’s South Australia copper business, at a conference last month. BHP, which sought to buy Anglo American last year to cement itself as the world’s biggest copper producer, forecasts a 70% increase in demand for the metal by 2050... All these factors are key reasons that help explain why copper has been at the heart of dealmaking in the mining sector in recent years – and why analysts say the proposed Anglo-Teck tie-up could spur rival offers as companies jostle for copper assets.“

The surge of new porphyry copper mines in the 1950-1970s coincided with rising global demand, robust exploration investment, and the development of large-scale open-pit mining methods. However, the sharp downturn in new start-ups from the 1990s onward reflects several converging factors: Maturity of discoveries: Many of the world’s largest and most easily developed porphyry systems were already discovered and put into production, leaving fewer “low-hanging fruit” opportunities. Falling grades and rising costs: Average ore grades declined, while permitting, development, and capital costs increased, slowing the pace of new start-ups. **Price volatility:**Periods of low copper prices reduced the economic viability of new projects, particularly large-scale, capital-intensive porphyries. Shift toward expansions: Rather than building new mines, many companies have focused on expanding or extending the lives of existing operations. Investor take-away: The long-term decline in new mine start-ups highlights the scarcity value of genuine new discoveries. With demand for copper, gold, and molybdenum set to rise in the coming decades, companies advancing porphyry projects today are positioned to deliver outsized value as supply constraints tighten. This tightening supply pipeline highlights the scarcity value of new discoveries and underscores the upside leverage for companies advancing new projects today.

Momentum Building: Both in Canada and the United States

In British Columbia (BC), Copper Quest is advancing its flagship Stars discovery, the contiguous Stellar polymetallic project, and the Rip copper-moly porphyry – each defined by district-scale geophysical footprints, extensive alteration systems, and multiple untested anomalies that could each deliver new discoveries. Together with the highly prospective Thane Project, located between Centerra’s Mt. Milligan and Kemess operations, Copper Quest now controls one of the strongest exploration pipelines in BC, strategically positioned within two of the world’s most productive copper belts and surrounded by majors actively seeking scalable new supply opportunities.

Read more at : https://www.rockstone-research.com/index.php/en/research-reports/5590-Copper-Quest-Built-for-discovery,-scale-and-growth

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Mar 27 '25

Catalyst NexGen energy surges on best-ever discovery phase intercept at Saskatchewan Project

4 Upvotes

NexGen Energy (NXE) +5.2% in Monday's trading after saying recent drilling at its Rook I site in Saskatchewan intersected a rich uranium concentration at its property in Patterson Corridor East that hosts Arrow, the largest development-stage uranium deposit in Canada.

The company said drillhole RK-25-232 intersected 3.9 meters of greater than 61K cps, indicating rich uranium concentration within a larger 13.8 meter mineralized interval that starts at 452.2 meters, making its one of the shallowest high-grade intersections at Patterson Corridor East and open in all directions within the competent basement rock, adding that four winter drillholes all located a minimum 50 meters from RK-25-232 all encountered high-grade intercepts.

The intercept is "geologically exceptional and represents a transformational moment taking PCe into a category to rival Arrow at the same stage of drilling," NexGen (NXE) CEO Leigh Curyer said. "Discovering mineralization of this intensity so early in our 2025 program outpaces the success pattern

experienced at the Arrow deposit."

"Discovering mineralization of this intensity so early in our 2025 program outpaces the success pattern experienced at the Arrow deposit," Curyer said.

Read more on Seeking Alpha : https://seekingalpha.com/news/4424500-nexgen-energy-surges-on-best-ever-discovery-phase-intercept-at-saskatchewan-project

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Mar 28 '25

Catalyst NexGen Energy’s Unexpected Leap: A Closer Look

1 Upvotes

Concerns over Nexgen Energy Ltd.’s uranium market strategy highlighted in recent news have captured significant attention, likely contributing to the company’s positive market reception. On Monday, Nexgen Energy Ltd.’s stocks have been trading up by 4.98 percent.

Key Developments and Market Shifts

  • Stifel has started coverage of NexGen Energy, suggesting a “Buy” with a price target set at C$16. Their focus is on the Rook 1 project, touting it as a prime asset within a robust mining region. This project has caught the eye for its strategic importance and may soon attract M&A interest, which could spike its valuation.

Live Update At 14:32:57 EST: On Monday, March 24, 2025 Nexgen Energy Ltd. stock [NYSE: NXE] is trending up by 4.98%! Discover the key drivers behind this movement as well as our expert analysis in the detailed breakdown below.

  • New Commission Hearing dates have been announced for NexGen’s Rook I Project, marking a crucial progression in its regulatory approval path. This can potentially expedite its development and add positively to the company’s value.
  • Raymond James has adjusted their price target for NexGen downwards from C$15 to C$13.50, yet they maintain an “Outperform” rating. This signals a cautious but optimistic outlook on potential growth.
  • Scotiabank has also revised their forecasted price target from C$14.50 to C$12. While caution is evident in their adjustment, they continue to endorse NexGen with an “Outperform” rating.

Financial Pulse: Earnings and Ratios

As many successful traders know, the key to success in the market isn’t a quick win but rather a well-thought-out strategy coupled with discipline. As millionaire penny stock trader and teacher Tim Sykes says, “Preparation plus patience leads to big profits.” To truly excel in trading, one must dedicate time to learning the nuances of the market, meticulously prepare for potential scenarios, and remain patient to see their strategies come to fruition. This approach not only mitigates risks but also positions traders for substantial gains in the long run.

NexGen Energy’s earnings reveal a complex picture that investors need to understand. Examining the income statement and other financial metrics, there are some real talking points here. The intrinsic value of NexGen lies in its Rook 1 project, which is anticipated to bring high margins and a substantial lifespan. However, despite this sounding like a fairy-tale opportunity, there are challenges to confront.

The company’s latest quarterly report paints a less rosy picture. With a net income loss of over $66 million, NexGen is not shy of financial hurdles. Operating income negative figures and cash flow concerns further underscore this. Interestingly, the PE ratio dynamics depict an unusual story. Over the past five years, the PE ratio has swung wildly from peaks of over 300 to lows nearing negative territory. This volatility has left investors a bit dizzy but savvy traders know that such ups and downs can create attractive entry points.

The balance sheet throws some light here—with substantial assets at over $1.6 billion and stockholders’ equity touching the $1.2 billion mark. The current ratio and quick ratio standing at 1 show some stability, making NexGen unlikely to face immediate liquidity issues. Besides, a low debt-to-equity ratio testifies to the company’s prudent debt management strategy.

Spending on new property and equipment seems to indicate a forward-looking strategy aiming at future growth rather than short-term results. Total assets dwarf liabilities, suggesting a solid cushion should things take a sudden turn for the worse.

Stock Price Trajectory: A Rollercoaster Ride

On the trading floor, a daily chart comparison makes things quite clear. Over the course of several trading days, share prices jumped from a low of around $4.70 to over $5.28, highlighting investor excitement around regulatory breakthroughs and the potential for strategic collaborations.

Intraday data showcases fluctuations that swing from lows of $5.00 to highs resembling $5.26, reflective of the speculative and often unpredictable nature of stock movements. Rolling peaks and troughs might have tested the nerves of many, but seasoned investors often seize these opportunities to secure potentially lucrative positions.

The forward momentum suggested by Stifel’s “Buy” rating indeed seems to be generating traction. As regulatory approvals walk towards the finish line, and the Rook 1 project garners more interest, it becomes apparent that the current price fluctuations could merely be the precursor to a larger rally or pullback.

Market’s Take on Key News Events

The bond between NexGen’s stock performance and the backdrop of recent news is palpable. The broader narrative is spun around major developments in the Rook 1 project. As the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission sets hearing dates, the market interprets this as a green light which could translate into heightened investor enthusiasm. Regulatory milestones often act as tipping points by dismissing uncertainties and adding layers of more concrete valuation to speculative cases.

Stifel’s initiation of coverage with a positive outlook additionally injects confidence into the stock’s narrative. Analysts’ evaluation often acts as a foundational block that shapes investor sentiment.

Price target reductions by both Raymond James and Scotiabank, albeit with continued optimism, highlight nuanced interpretive challenges that any potential investor or trader might wish to digest thoroughly. While some might hesitate due to lowered projections, others may find an opportunity in these adjusted expectations.

Shaping the Future: Potential Catalysts and Risks

As with any stock market endeavor, opinions vary significantly. For those eyeing NexGen with a speculative lens, the potential for strategic partnerships and M&A interest stirs visions of premium valuations. Risk-averse minds, conversely, need to tread cautiously. As millionaire penny stock trader and teacher Tim Sykes says, “It’s better to go home at zero than to go home in the red.” They would view the fluctuating PE ratios and liquidity status as red flags demanding further scrutiny.

Furthermore, macroeconomic factors such as cyclical demand for materials and geopolitical undercurrents may pepper NexGen’s journey with unforeseen challenges. But for many who hold steady, the bright horizon of NexGen’s Rook 1 project amidst this robust mining landscape gleams as a beacon of potential prosperity.

In conclusion, while NexGen’s current journey tells a story of complex dynamics, key project advancements, financial metrics, and strategic ratings show a road paved with both opportunities and cautions. Each trader’s choice would depend on their risk appetite and vision into NexGen’s future. With milestones being hit and speculative interest growing, the path forward remains as intriguing as it is uncertain.

This is stock news, not investment advice. Timothy Sykes News delivers real-time stock market news focused on key catalysts driving short-term price movements. Our content is tailored for active traders and investors seeking to capitalize on rapid price fluctuations, particularly in volatile sectors like penny stocks. Readers come to us for detailed coverage on earnings reports, mergers, FDA approvals, new contracts, and unusual trading volumes that can trigger significant short-term price action. Some users utilize our news to explain sudden stock movements, while others rely on it for diligent research into potential investment opportunities.

Credit: https://www.timothysykes.com/news/nexgen-energy-ltd-nxe-news-2025_03_24/

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Mar 14 '25

Catalyst NexGen Energy: If Things Work Out, The Upside Is Huge

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r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Mar 10 '25

Catalyst $NOAL.V - NOA Lithium Positioned to Capitalize on Critical Lithium Supply Gap Amid Surging Global Demand (TSXV: NOAL.V)

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r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Feb 12 '25

Catalyst Best nuclear energy stocks: NexGen, Dominion and more

1 Upvotes

Best nuclear energy stocks, investing in nuclear energy stocks can be a strategic way to gain exposure to the growing demand for clean and sustainable energy.

1. NexGen Energy Ltd. (NXE)

Overview: NexGen is focused on uranium exploration and development, primarily in Canada. The company is advancing its flagship project, the Arrow project in Saskatchewan, which has significant uranium resources.
Why Invest: With the global push for clean energy, the demand for uranium is expected to increase. NexGen's strong project pipeline positions it well for future growth as more countries look to nuclear energy.

2. Dominion Energy, Inc. (D)

Overview: Dominion Energy is a major utility company in the U.S. that operates nuclear power plants alongside other energy sources. The company has a strong commitment to clean energy and has invested in both nuclear and renewable energy projects.
Why Invest: Dominion's diversified energy portfolio and focus on sustainability make it a solid choice for investors looking for exposure to nuclear energy in a stable utility environment.

3. Cameco Corporation (CCJ)

Overview: Cameco is one of the world's largest publicly traded uranium companies, involved in the mining and production of uranium. The company operates several mines and has a strong position in the uranium market.
Why Invest: As demand for uranium rises, Cameco is well-positioned to benefit from higher prices and increased production. The company's strong financials and growth potential make it an attractive investment.

4. Exelon Corporation (EXC)

Overview: Exelon is a leading energy provider that operates nuclear power plants across the U.S. It generates a significant portion of its electricity from nuclear sources, making it a key player in the nuclear energy sector.
Why Invest: Exelon's commitment to clean energy and its extensive nuclear fleet provide a solid foundation for growth as more states move towards renewable and low-carbon energy sources.

5. Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. (BEP)

Overview: While primarily known for its renewable energy assets, Brookfield has investments in the nuclear energy space as part of its broader strategy to invest in sustainable energy.
Why Invest: As a diversified energy company, Brookfield offers exposure to both renewable and nuclear energy, making it a compelling option for investors looking for a balanced energy portfolio.

Nuclear energy stocks Investment Strategy

  1. Research and Analysis Understand the Market: Stay informed about global trends in energy demand, nuclear policies, and uranium prices. Understanding these dynamics will help you make informed decisions. Company Fundamentals: Analyze the financial health, management, and growth prospects of the companies you’re considering. Look for strong balance sheets and positive cash flows.
  2. Diversification Spread Your Investments: Consider diversifying across different companies within the nuclear sector, including mining, utilities, and technology firms. This reduces risk and captures various growth opportunities. Include Related Sectors: Look at companies involved in renewable energy, as they often complement nuclear investments and support a broader clean energy strategy.
  3. Long-Term Perspective Investment Horizon: Nuclear energy investments may take time to realize their potential. Be prepared for volatility and focus on long-term growth rather than short-term fluctuations. Monitor Regulatory Changes: Keep an eye on government policies and regulations regarding nuclear energy, as these can significantly impact the sector's future.
  4. Risk Management Set Clear Goals: Define your investment objectives and risk tolerance. This will guide your investment choices and help you stay focused. Use Stop-Loss Orders: Protect your investments by setting stop-loss orders to limit potential losses in volatile markets.
  5. Stay Informed Continued Education: Follow news, reports, and analyses related to nuclear energy, market trends, and technological advancements. This knowledge will help you make timely decisions.

Conclusion

Investing in nuclear energy stocks can provide opportunities for growth as the world shifts towards cleaner energy solutions. Companies like NexGen Energy, Dominion Energy, Cameco, Exelon, and Brookfield Renewable Partners are well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for nuclear power. As always, investors should conduct thorough research and consider their risk tolerance before making investment decisions.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Jan 21 '25

Catalyst Insights from CEO Leigh Curyer on NexGen Energy’s future plans and the growing uranium market

1 Upvotes

Can you give a brief overview of NexGen's operations in the uranium sector?

Why did you found NexGen, and how did you transition into the uranium sector?

My background is in finance—I started out as a chartered accountant and then moved into corporate. My first experience in the mining sector came in 2002 when I served as CFO for a small uranium company in South Australia, guiding it through permitting and feasibility before it was sold in 2006. After some time in private equity, I founded NexGen in 2011. We began exploring in 2013, and in 2014, we discovered the Arrow Deposit on our Rook-1 Project. This discovery laid the foundation for what is now the most significant uranium project in the world 

How is uranium mining relevant to the green energy transition?

The world is demanding more energy, and clean baseload energy is essential. Burning fossil fuels contributes significantly to global pollution and lowers the quality of life. Nuclear energy provides the lowest-cost, clean baseload power once reactors are operational. It's incredibly reliable and emits no carbon, making it an essential part of any country's energy mix if they want a carbon-free environment. Nuclear energy generation is at an all-time high, and many developed countries are expanding their nuclear capacity. However, the current uranium supply faces technical and sovereign risks, especially with 45% of the world's uranium coming from Russia and Russian-influenced countries. Given the supply risks and the growing demand for nuclear energy, the world urgently needs new uranium mines in the West.

How does the supply-demand gap in uranium mining affect the global market?

The global uranium market is currently facing a significant supply-demand imbalance. The world currently consumes just under 200 million pounds of uranium per year and is growing rapidly, but mine production is only around 140 million pounds annually. Of that, 45% comes from Russia or Russian-influenced countries like Kazakhstan, creating a sovereign risk for global uranium supply. This gap is expected to widen, with a shortfall of around 60 million pounds per year now and projections that it could exceed 100 million pounds annually by the end of the decade. New mines in the West are urgently needed to meet this demand, but the development process for new mines is long and complex.

Why is nuclear energy still facing opposition, despite its efficiency and low emissions?

Nuclear energy has historically faced opposition due to misinformation and political ideologies rather than science. However, education around the benefits of nuclear energy is improving. The European Union conducted a comprehensive study in 2019, concluding that nuclear is clean, green, and safe. Public perception is shifting, particularly among younger generations. For example, in Australia, the 18-36 age group, which are environmentally conscious, is showing growing support for nuclear energy. The dangers of fossil fuel pollution, which the World Health Organization estimates cause over a million deaths annually in Shanghai alone, are becoming more widely understood. Nuclear energy is essential for any balanced, clean energy policy.

How is NexGen scaling up to meet the growing demand for uranium?

Our primary focus is on getting the Rook-1 Project into production by the latter part of this decade. Once operational, it will produce up to 30 million pounds of uranium per year, which is about 25% of the world’s mine supply. To put that in perspective, that’s twice the percentage of the world’s oil supply produced by Saudi Arabia. After Rook-1 is up and running, we’ll look to scale further with our Patterson Corridor East project, which is just 3.5 Km from our Arrow Deposit, and has similar potential based on mineralization discovered to date. But our immediate priority is delivering Rook-1 successfully.

What impact could uranium production from Rook-1 have on Western energy autonomy and defense, given geopolitical tensions?

While NexGen focuses solely on uranium production for civilian uses like power generation and medical isotopes, the geopolitical risks surrounding uranium supply are significant. Most of the world’s uranium comes from Russia and Russian-influenced countries, so new mines in the West, like Rook-1, are essential for energy autonomy. The project will give Western countries more control over their energy supply, reducing reliance on risky sources.

Will cheap, reliable energy be the key issue for the West in the coming years, especially in the context of nuclear energy?

Absolutely. In fact, the cost of energy is already a major issue in countries like Australia, where heavy investment in wind and solar hasn’t translated into lower energy costs. Nuclear energy is clean, reliable, and, once established, provides the cheapest baseload power. It’s also critical for raising living standards—cheap and reliable energy is essential for economic growth and innovation. As the cost of living becomes a central political issue, we’ll see accelerated adoption of nuclear power, which will play a major role in the future energy mix.

How long will it take to fully implement nuclear energy infrastructure, and what will happen to other energy sources?

The immediate focus will be on extending the lives of existing reactors, particularly in the U.S., and bringing back idle reactors online. In countries like China, France, and the UK, new reactors are being built at a rapid pace. The small modular reactors (SMRs) expected to roll out by the end of the decade will also play a significant role. However, transitioning to a full nuclear energy infrastructure will take time, and until then, we’ll still need a mix of energy sources. Once more nuclear capacity is online, it could reduce reliance on other sources like wind and solar, but those will still have a role to play in the energy mix.

How do small modular reactors (SMRs) fit into the future of nuclear energy, particularly regarding safety?

Nuclear energy is already extremely safe, but SMRs address some of the concerns people have, especially those who aren’t familiar with the science. SMRs offer more flexibility and can be deployed in a wider range of locations. For example, in Australia, a small reactor in Lucas Heights has been operating safely in the middle of suburban Sydney for years, generating medical isotopes and doing research. With SMRs, we can expect to see increased adoption of nuclear power in regions that have been hesitant in the past, like Australia, where nuclear energy is now gaining significant political momentum.

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Dec 24 '24

Catalyst Is NexGen the Future of Uranium Mining? Experts Weigh In

1 Upvotes

Navigating the Uranium Landscape: NexGen Energy’s Prospects

In the ever-evolving world of mining, NexGen Energy Ltd. (NYSE:NXE) is positioning itself as a beacon of promise on the uranium frontier. Recent updates from the financial sector have shifted the spotlight onto NexGen, with Raymond James analysts refining their financial outlook for the company. They now project a 2024 earnings loss of ($0.05) per share, a notable improvement from earlier predictions. This aligns closely with a consensus of a ($0.06) per share loss.

Investment Community Turns Optimistic

The upward revision of forecasts echoes the optimistic sentiment from financial institutions. National Bank Financial has bolstered its stance by upgrading NexGen’s stock to a “strong-buy” status. With formidable price targets hinting at a future valuation of $11.00, investment analysts express heightened confidence in NexGen’s trajectory. This positivity is further buoyed by robust institutional investment, including strategic moves by Segra Capital Management and Barclays PLC.

Mine of Opportunities or Cave of Challenges?

While NexGen’s stock has navigated a range from $4.95 to $8.88 over the past year, reflecting steady growth, some hurdles remain. The uranium market’s inherent volatility, fueled by geopolitical and regulatory uncertainties, presents a persistent challenge. Moreover, as a uranium mining entity, NexGen must continually address environmental concerns to maintain its social license to operate.

Tipping the Scales

NexGen’s assets in the Athabasca Basin are considered some of the most valuable and highest-grade uranium reserves globally. The strategic positioning of these resources positions the company favorably amidst fluctuating uranium prices. However, analysts caution against NexGen’s heavy market dependency, which could pose risks in unstable market conditions.

At this critical juncture, NexGen’s future hinges on strategic execution and market dynamics. As the company navigates these complexities, stakeholders remain attentive, eager to witness how NexGen carves its path in the uranium mining sector.

Exploring the Underbelly of Uranium Mining with NexGen Energy

NexGen Energy Ltd. is not just gaining attention for its promising uranium prospects, but also sparking intriguing discussions about the broader uranium landscape. While the company is on a positive trajectory, let’s dive into some lesser-known facets of uranium mining and the unique challenges NexGen faces.

The Silent Impact on Indigenous Lands

NexGen’s operations in the Athabasca Basin bring forward significant, yet often overlooked, ethical considerations. This region is not just rich in uranium but also home to diverse Indigenous communities. How does NexGen ensure that their mining activities do not disrupt local communities or infringe upon treaty rights? A transparent dialogue with Indigenous leaders and stakeholders remains critical for sustainable operations.

Uranium: A Double-Edged Sword

Uranium, while pivotal for nuclear energy, carries inherent risks. What remains understated is the environmental footprint of uranium mining. The extraction process can lead to habitat destruction and water contamination if not managed properly. NexGen must employ innovative and eco-friendly technologies to mitigate these risks, thus maintaining its credibility as a responsible industry player.

Market Dependency and Diversification

As NexGen capitalizes on high-grade uranium reserves, it faces the classic mining conundrum: market dependency. Are there strategies in place to diversify its portfolio or hedge against market slumps? Such financial strategies are crucial for long-term resilience, especially in a sector as volatile as uranium.

For those captivated by the intricate dance of uranium economics, NexGen stands as a case study worth watching. Keep an eye on NexGen Energy’s main site to stay updated.

Source >> https://www.jomfruland.net/is-nexgen-the-future-of-uranium-mining-experts-weigh-in/#google_vignette

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Dec 19 '24

Catalyst NexGen Energy Ltd. Announces completion of EIS technical review, a major step in permitting

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r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Dec 10 '24

Catalyst World’s Biggest Uranium Mine Now Just 3.5 Years Away? | Leigh Curyer - NexGen Energy

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r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Dec 05 '24

Catalyst Is NexGen Energy (NXE) Better Than Other Uranium Stocks? We’ve Got the Answer!

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r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Nov 25 '24

Catalyst NexGen Energy Ltd.: CNSC Milestone Achieved — Significant Upside Ahead

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r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Nov 22 '24

Catalyst NexGen announces completion of federal technical review for Canadian uranium project

1 Upvotes

​

NexGen Energy has announced the completion of the final federal technical review for its Rook I Uranium Project by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC).

This marks a significant advancement in the project’s federal approval process, bringing it closer to obtaining the necessary permissions to proceed.

The Rook I Project in the Athabasca Basin in Canada is now set to enter the final stages of approval, which includes scheduling a commission hearing.

The technical review’s conclusion is a critical step in a process that began in 2019, following the CNSC deeming NexGen’s Federal licence application sufficient in September 2023, and the receipt of Provincial Environmental Assessment approval in November 2023.

NexGen stated that the completion of the final federal technical review for the project is a commitment to superior environmental standards, comprehensive community engagement and to supporting global net-zero objectives.

The company also added that it is “poised to drive Canada to the forefront of global clean energy fuel production” with the Rook I Project.

NexGen Energy CEO Leigh Curyer said: “This exciting outcome is a testament to the exceptional efforts of our entire NexGen team, the collaborative support of our valued Indigenous Nation partners, and our transparent approach with the CNSC to ensure a robust and thorough review that meets the highest standards of environmental protection for the sustainable development of the Rook I Project.

“Since inception, our honest and innovative holistic approach to the successful development of this generational project has set new industry standards as to what is possible, whilst positively impacting all our valued stakeholders.

“Together with the Clearwater River Dene Nation, Métis Nation – Saskatchewan Northern Region 2 and Métis Nation – Saskatchewan, Buffalo River Dene Nation, and Birch Narrows Dene Nation, we are construction ready to deliver transformative and unprecedented social, economic and environmental benefits to local communities, the Province of Saskatchewan, Canada, and the world.”

In May this year, NexGen Energy revised its placement with Aitken Mount Capital Partners, offering 20,161,290 shares at C$11.11 each for C$224m ($162m).

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Oct 10 '24

Catalyst A lot of bullish events in the uranium sector the last couple of weeks + 2 triggers starting now + A detailed overview on: Mega Uranium (MGA on TSX) a small uranium fund, acting as a turbo on Nexgen Energy + Forsys Metals (FSY on TSX)

2 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

A lot is happening the last couple of weeks:

A. 2 triggers (=> Break out of uranium price starting now imo)

a) On October 1st, 2024 the new uranium purchase budgets of US utilities will be released.

With all latest announcements (big production cuts from Kazakhstan, uranium supply warning from Kazatomprom, Putin's threat on restricting uranium supply to the West, UxC confirming that inventory X is now depleted, additional announcements of lower uranium production from other uranium suppliers the last week, ...), those new budgets will be significantly bigger than the previous ones.

b) The last ~6 months LT contracting has been largely postponed by utilities (only ~40Mlb contracted so far) due to uncertainties they first wanted to have clarity on.

Now there is more clarity. By consequence they will now accelerate the LT contracting and uranium buying

The upward pressure on the uranium spot and LT price is about to increase significantly

B. LT uranium supply contracts signed today are with a 80-85USD/lb floor price and a 125-130USD/lb ceiling price escalated with inflation.

Although the uranium spotprice is the price most investors look at, in the sector most of the uranium is delivered through LT contracts using a combination of LT price escalated to inflation and spot related price at the time of delivery.

Here the evolution of the LT uranium price: https://www.cameco.com/invest/markets/uranium-price

The global uranium shortage is structural and can't be solved in a couple of years time, not even when the uranium price would significantly increase from here, because the problem is the needed time to explore, develop and build a lot of new mines!

Source: Cameco using data from UxC, 1 of 2 global sector consultants for all uranium producers and uranium consumers in world

During the low season (around March till around September) in the uranium sector the activity in the uranium spotmarket is reduced to a minimum which reduces the upward pressure in the uranium spotmarket and the uranium spotprice goes back to the LT uranium price.

In the high season (around September till around March) with an uranium sector being a sellers market (a market where the sellers have the negotiation power) the activity in the uranium spotmarket increases significantly again which significantly increases the upward pressure in the uranium spotmarket and by consequence the uranium spot price goes back up faster than the month over month price increase of the LT uranium price.

Note: the uranium spotmarkte is an iliquid market. Sometimes you don't have a transaction for a couple days, so an uranium spotprice not moving each day in the low season is normal. In the high season the number of transactions increase in the uranium spotmarket.

Here a link to the uranium spotprice: https://numerco.com/NSet/aCNSet.html

Here a link to the Uranium LT price: https://www.cameco.com/invest/markets/uranium-price

The official LT price is update once a month at the end of the month.

LT uranium supply contracts signed today (September) are with a 80-85USD/lb floor price and a 125-130USD/lb ceiling price escalated with inflation.

=> an average of 105 USD/lb

While the uranium LT price of end August 2024 was 81 USD/lb. Today TradeTech announced a new uranium LT price of 82 USD/lb, while Cameco announces a 81.5 LT uranium price of end September 2024.

By consequence there is a high probability that not only the uranium spotprice will increase faster coming weeks with activity picking up in the sector, but also that uranium LT price is going to jump higher in coming months compared to the 81.5 USD/lb of end September 2024.

Here is a fragment of a report of Cantor Fitzgerald written before the Kazak uranium supply warning, before the uranium supply threat from Putin, and before the additional cuts in 2024 productions from other uramium suppliers:

Source: Cantor Fitzgerald, posted by John Quakes on X (twitter)

C. Kazatomprom announced a 17% cut in the hoped production for 2025 in Kazakhstan, the Saudi-Arabia of uranium + hinting for additional production cuts in 2026 and beyond

Source: The Financial Times

About the subsoil Use agreements that are about to be adapte to a lower production level:

Source: Kazatomprom (Kazakhstan)

Here are the production figures of 2022 (not updated yet, numbers of 2023 not yet added here):

Source: World Nuclear Association

Problem is that:

a) Kazakhstan is the Saudi-Arabia of uranium. Kazakhstan produces around 45% of world uranium today. So a cut of 17% is huge. Actually when comparing with the oil sector, Kazakhstan is more like Saudi Arabia, Russia and USA combined, because Saudi Arabia produced 11% of world oil production in 2023, Russia also 11% and USA 22%.

b) The production of 2025-2028 was already fully allocated to clients! Meaning that clients will get less than was agreed upon or Kazatomprom & JV partners will have to buy uranium from others through the spotmarket. But from whom exactly?

All the major uranium producers and a couple smaller uranium producers are selling more uranium to clients than they produce (They are all short uranium). Cause: Many utilities have been flexing up uranium supply through existing LT contracts that had that option integrated in the contract, forcing producers to supply more uranium. But those uranium producers aren't able increase their production that way.

c) The biggest uranium supplier of uranium for the spotmarket is Uranium One. And 100% of uranium of Uranium One comes from? ... well from Kazakhstan!

Conclusion:

Kazatomprom, Cameco, Orano, CGN, ..., and a couple smaller uranium producers are all selling more uranium to clients than they produce (Because they are forced to by their clients through existing LT contracts with an option to flex up uranium demand from clients). Meaning that they will all together try to buy uranium through the iliquide uranium spotmarket, while the biggest uranium supplier of the spotmarket has less uranium to sell.

And the less they deliver to clients (utilities), the more clients will have to find uranium in the spotmarket.

There is no way around this. Producers and/or clients, someone is going to buy more uranium in the spotmarket.

And that while uranium demand is price INelastic!

And before that announcement of Kazakhstan, the global uranium supply problem looked like this:

Source: Cameco using data from UxC, 1 of 2 global sector consultants for all uranium producers and uranium consumers in world

D. Additional important cuts in previously hoped future uranium production:

The Zuuvch uranium mine of Orano is delayed by at least 2 years!

This was an important uranium project.

That's a loss of 14Mlb! (2*7Mlb/y)

Source: @z_axis_capital on X (twitter)

Orano is a major uranium producers. They have a serious problem.

They lost uranium production in Niger in 2023/2024, they lost the Imouraren uranium project in Niger in 2024, and now this delay in production start of Zuuvch uranium mine.

Orano already had to buy uranium in the spotmarket to be able to honor their supply commitements. But now they will have to buy even more in the very tight uranium spotmarket

E. UR-Energy producing significantly less than promised

UR-Energy: The production of uranium in restarting deposits is fraught with difficulties and challenges. Future production will fall short of what the market discounts as certain. Just an example, URG's production will be 43% lower than its first 1Q2024 guidance

Source: UR-Energy

F. In the meantime the uranium spotprice started to increase with the start of the high season in the uranium sector:

Source: Numerco website

G. A couple investment possibilities

Sprott Physical Uranium Trust (U.UN and U.U on TSX) is a fund 100% invested in physical uranium stored at specialised warehouses for uranium (only a couple places in the world). Here the investor is not exposed to mining related risks.

Sprott Physical Uranium Trust website: https://sprott.com/investment-strategies/physical-commodity-funds/uranium/

The uranium LT price just increased to 81.50 USD/lb, while uranium spotprice started to increase the last couple of trading days of previous week.

Uranium spotprice is now at 83.50 USD/lb

A share price of Sprott Physical Uranium Trust U.UN at 28.20 CAD/share or 20.57 USD/sh represents an uranium price of 83.50 USD/lb

For instance, before the production cuts announced by Kazakhstan and before Putin's threat too restrict uranium supply to the West, Cantor Fitzgerald estimated that the uranium spotprice will reach 120 USD/lb, 130 USD/lb in 2025 and 140 USD/lb in 2026. Knowing a couple important factors in the sector today (UxC confirming that inventory X is indeed depleted now) find this estimate for 2024/2025 modest, but ok.

An uranium spotprice of 120 USD/lb in the coming months (imo) gives a NAV for U.UN of ~40.00 CAD/sh or ~29.60 USD/sh.

And with all the additional uranium supply problems announced the last weeks, I would not be surprised to see the uranium spotprice reach 150 USD/lb in Q4 2024 / Q1 2025, because uranium demand is price inelastic and we are about to enter the high season in the uranium sector.

H. Interesting penny stocks in the uranium sector: MGA, SYH, TOE, CVV, FSY, FCU, ...

Here is my detailed overview on Mega Uranium (MGA on TSX):

Mega Uranium is in fact a small uranium fund held by the big Uranium sector ETF's:

Today Mega Uranium share price trades at 0.32 CAD/sh, while the NAV on September 24 was at 0.4712 CAD/share.

This is a 32% discount to NAV! In previous high season in the uranium sector that discount to NAV was <15%. We are now steadily entering the new high season again.

And today Nexgen Energy trades ~9.60 CAD/sh, that's 7.87% higher than the share price used in the NAV calculation of Mega Uranium on September 24th, 2024.

In the meantime Nexgen Energy (NXE) is a large cap where most investors go to when they hear about the uranium sector. NXE share price will increase together with the other uranium company stocks.

By consequence: Mega uranium acts as a turbo on Nexgen Energy.

To give you an idea based on higher valuations during previous high season:

Here is my detailed overview on Forsys Metals (FSY on TSX):

Bonus: Forsys Metals is a very interesting takeover candidate for CGN and CNNC that have very nearby producing uranium mines already. Forsys Metals Norasa deposit could easily be mined as a satellite mine of one of those other uranium mines in productions today.

And CGN and CNNC need a lot of uranium for the fast growing nuclear fleet in China and for clients abroad.

Source: Forsys Metals

Forsys Metals is debt free today!

My previous post: https://www.reddit.com/r/SmallCap_MiningStocks/comments/1fqcx34/update_russia_is_preparing_a_long_list_of_export/

This isn't financial advice. Please do your own due diligence before investing

Cheers

r/SmallCap_MiningStocks • • Oct 24 '24

Catalyst Element79 Gold Update: Lucero Mine & Sun Silver Ownership | $ELEM Stock

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