Interview with Peter Akerley, President & CEO of Erdene Resources Development Corp.

Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/erdene-resource-development-tsxerd-mongolia-gold-developer-to-pour-first-gold-by-q3-2025-6815

Recording date: 27th June 2025

Erdene Resource Development (TSX:ERD) is on the verge of becoming Mongolia's newest gold producer, with construction at its flagship Bayan Khundii project reaching 98-99% completion and first gold production targeted for early-to-mid September 2025. The company expects to achieve commercial production by mid-November, marking a significant milestone in Mongolia's emerging mining sector.

The project represents a compelling investment opportunity with projected annual production of 85,000 ounces at 4 grams per ton head grade and 90-95% recovery rates. At current gold prices, management forecasts approximately $200 million CAD in annual after-tax free cash flow, providing substantial returns for investors.

Erdene's financial position remains robust despite total project costs reaching $115 million USD, 15% above the initial $100 million target. The company maintains $45 million in undrawn facilities, creating a comfortable buffer through the transition to cash flow generation. Management plans aggressive debt repayment within 14 months of achieving steady-state production.

Perhaps most attractive for long-term investors is the significant expansion potential within what management characterizes as a new high-grade gold district. Recent drilling has identified exceptional intersections including 40 meters of 7 grams per ton just 200 meters west of the current pit. The company has allocated $10 million annually for exploration to develop multiple targets that could extend mine life beyond 10 years.

Strategic infrastructure investments, including a 240-kilometer transmission line to the Chinese border and comprehensive operational facilities, position Erdene for district-wide development. The company recently completed a 6:1 share consolidation to attract larger institutional investors, coinciding with increased marketing efforts as production approaches.

With proven management execution, strong local partnerships through Mongolian Mining Corporation, and a 5% net smelter royalty providing additional upside from year five, Erdene represents a rare opportunity to invest in an emerging gold producer with significant expansion potential in an underexplored jurisdiction.

View Erdene Resource Development's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/erdene-resource-development

Sign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com