Interview with Tim Moody, CEO of Pan Global Resources (TSX-V: PGZ)

Our previous interview: https://youtu.be/DywHWoLRKA4

Recording date: 6th July 2023

Pan Global is an exploration company primarily focused on discovering copper, tin, and other metal deposits in southern Spain. Their flagship project, the Escacena Copper Project, is located in the Iberian Pyrite Belt near Seville, an internationally recognized volcanic-hosted massive sulphide district. Spanning approximately 5,800 hectares, Escacena is the centerpiece of their operations.

Additionally, Pan Global is actively engaged in exploration activities at the Aguilas Project, situated near Cordoba in northern Andalucia. Covering an area of around 16,000 hectares, Aguilas represents another significant area of interest for the company.

Recording date: 28th June 2023

In this insightful discussion, Hayden Locke, CEO of Marimaca Copper, sheds light on the contrasting properties of oxides and sulfides within the copper industry. They explain that copper mineralization initially begins as primary sulfide mineralization, which is present in geological deposits. As meteoric surface water interacts with these minerals, they undergo transformation and become oxides. Oxides are typically found closer to the surface or in near-surface locations, although they can also exist undercover in large deposits. The distinguishing factor between oxides and sulfides lies in their processing methods and eventual utilization.

Oxide copper species, for the most part, are leachable and can be dissolved using acid or weak acid solutions, resulting in efficient recovery of copper ions. Conversely, sulfides do not leach easily, necessitating a different treatment approach. The sulfide minerals need to be ground and separated from other minerals to produce a concentrate. Another significant disparity lies in the final products of these processes. Oxide projects yield high-purity copper cathodes, while sulfide operations generate concentrates that are subsequently sent to smelters for further processing into various copper products.

Marimaca Copper's CEO further discusses the presence of secondary sulfide minerals such as chalcopyrite and covellite within their deposits. These materials can undergo a longer leaching cycle, resulting in lower recovery rates. While oxide deposits can be relatively large, their economic viability and scale differ from sulfide projects due to variations in capital costs. Overall, understanding the differences between oxides and sulfides is crucial for effectively navigating the copper industry and optimizing resource utilization.

Interview with Gerard O'Donovan, CEO of Battery Age Minerals (ASX: BM8)

Recording date: 5th July 2023

Battery Age Minerals is a company with a focus on battery minerals, aiming to generate increased shareholder value through the rapid growth of its primary Falcon Lake Lithium Project located in Ontario, Canada.

The company is also seeking opportunities for growth in its battery metal portfolio through the acquisition of other tenements worldwide related to batteries.

Furthermore, Battery Age Minerals recognizes the significance of diversification into downstream lithium processing as a means to secure value along the supply chain. The company is actively exploring available opportunities surrounding its Ontario asset in order to establish a presence in the chemicals industry.

Battery Age Minerals places strong emphasis on sustainable development across all of its assets. It considers the protection of the environment through effective management and governance as a key factor in contributing to the global energy transition.

Interview with Mike Struthers, CEO of Luca Mining (TSX-V: LUCA)

Recording date: 5th July 2023

Luca Mining (LUCA) is a gold mining company with operations in Mexico. They have been in the mining industry since 2009 and currently have an operating mine as well as a second project that is under construction. Recently, the company achieved a significant milestone by announcing a production capacity of 500 tons per day at their Tahuehueto gold mine. This achievement was made possible through organizational changes and the addition of construction management expertise to streamline operations. Luca Mining is now focused on further increasing their production to reach a target of 1,000 tons per day by the end of the year. With a commitment to delivering on their promises, Luca Mining aims to build a strong reputation in the market and capitalize on the favorable precious metal prices and their extensive resource base. The company sees opportunities for growth and expansion both within their immediate mine area and across their concession or license area, indicating potential upside and attractive prospects for the future.

Interview with James Sykes, CEO of Metal Energy (TSX:MERG)

Our previous interview: https://youtu.be/mZCaJpOIaa4

Recording date: 5th July 2023

Metal Energy (MERG) is a company that is venturing into the lithium market with its new project, SourceRock, located in Northwestern Ontario. Led by CEO James Sykes, the company aims to capitalize on the growing demand for lithium, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) industry.

Previously focused on nickel, Metal Energy recognized the subdued state of the nickel market and the potential of lithium as a long-term investment. The company decided to shift its focus to lithium, considering its promising future and the increasing valuation of lithium assets.

The SourceRock project was discovered by a prospector who identified the presence of salty water, indicating potential lithium brines. Metal Energy staked a significant area within the Sibley basin, a sedimentary basin with favorable geological conditions for lithium deposits.

Recording date: 28th June 2023

Mark Selby discusses multiple nickel projects and provides insights into the current state of the nickel market. According to Mark Selby, the nickel price has finally reached the anticipated level of $9 per pound ($20,000 per ton), although there are concerns about a potential slowdown in China and the impact of inflation on rate hikes. Despite these concerns, Mark Selby expects the battery metals sector, including nickel, to rebound as restocking and increased demand in the battery supply chain continue. The discussion also touches on the behavior of other battery metals, such as lithium, which has seen a decrease in prices but remains significantly higher than a few years ago.

Mark Selby highlights the impact of Russian nickel imports in relieving tight inventories in China, leading to a compression of premiums and a convergence of prices. Several nickel projects are mentioned, including Talon's permit application for a mine in Minnesota, Arava's drilling activities near the Kabanga deposit in Tanzania, Centaurus' acquisition of off-take rights for a nickel discovery in Brazil, FPX's progress in pre-feasibility studies, and Texmod's promising metallurgical results for their nickel project. Additionally, the discussion briefly touches on carbon capture and storage projects in Quebec, which have attracted interest from large companies seeking carbon storage solutions. Overall, Mark Selby provides a comprehensive overview of the nickel market and various projects making progress in the industry.

Mr. Brandon Munro and Matt discuss various developments in the uranium market and nuclear energy sector. They touch upon topics such as the recent performance of uranium spot prices, the strong performance of conversion and enrichment prices, and the significance of these trends for the overall fuel cycle. The conversation highlights the agreement between the Belgium government and Engie to restart nuclear reactors, emphasizing the positive impact on the nuclear industry in Europe. Sweden is recognized for its commitment to clean energy goals through nuclear power, setting an example for other countries. The discussion also briefly mentions the use of an ATM shelf prospectus for raising capital and its effectiveness in North America compared to the ASX. Overall, the conversation provides insights into market conditions, geopolitical influences, and notable developments in the nuclear energy sector.

Interview with Gregory Hall, CEO of Alligator Energy (ASX:AGE)

Our previous interview: https://youtu.be/SveIT6bOcdI

Recording date: 3rd July 2023

Alligator Energy Ltd is an Australian, ASX-listed, exploration company focused on uranium and energy related minerals, principally cobalt-nickel. Alligator’s Directors have significant experience in the exploration, development and operations of both uranium and nickel projects (both laterites and sulphides).

Recording date: 23rd June 2023

Geoff Atkins is the managing partner of Strategic Minerals Group, a consultancy company with a strong focus on the rare earth industry. With over 15 years of experience, Geoff and his team provide valuable guidance to companies in transitioning from development to operational phases. They apply their extensive knowledge to advise on supply chain sustainability, ESG provisions, and the importance of responsible mining practices.

During a recent meeting of rare earth companies in Barcelona, Geoff observed a diverse range of attendees representing different sectors of the supply chain. The discussions centered around the need for certainty in pricing and supply, as well as the significance of sustainable practices throughout the entire supply chain. OEMs emphasized traceability and stable pricing as vital factors for their ability to pass costs onto customers and maintain competitiveness.

Geoff's expertise lies in helping companies successfully enter the production phase. He understands the challenges faced by rare earth developers and stresses the importance of proving their ability to produce high-quality products that meet specifications. Additionally, Geoff recognizes the financial aspects involved in rare earth production, including securing financing for pilot and demonstration plants. His aim is to support companies in establishing reliable supply chains and delivering projects on time and within budget.

Interview with Jason Kosec, President & CEO of Integra Resources (TSX-V: ITR)

Our previous interview: https://youtu.be/4QEKz8cb4Xk

Recording date: 29th June 2023

Integra Resources is a precious metals development company that specializes in the exploration and extraction of near-surface heap leachable ounces, primarily in the Great Basin region. Led by Jason Kosec, the President, CEO, and Director, the company focuses on maximizing the value of their resource base while mitigating risks and obtaining permits efficiently.

The company recently released a positive preliminary economic assessment (PEA) for their Wildcat and Mountain View projects, surpassing market expectations. The PEA showcased impressive financial figures, including an after-tax net present value (NPV) of $310 million, an internal rate of return (IRR) of 37%, and sustainable operating costs.

Integra Resources prioritizes risk management and expedited permit acquisition to ensure timely project development. Their flagship project in Idaho holds a significant position in their strategic plans, with efforts focused on submitting a comprehensive mine plan to the government. The company emphasizes de-risking strategies, stakeholder engagement, and baseline studies to support the efficient progress of their projects.