Interview with Paul Barrett, CEO of Pathfinder Minerals/Rome Resources

Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/rome-resources-tsxvrmr-reverse-takeover-of-high-grade-tin-5717

Recording date: 16th October 2024

Rome Resources, a junior mining company, is making significant strides in its exploration for tin and copper in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The company's recent activities and market conditions present an intriguing opportunity for investors interested in the critical minerals sector.

Currently, Rome Resources is executing an ambitious drilling program in the DRC. CEO Paul Barrett reports that initial results are encouraging, with one hole showing "good indications" that warrant further investigation. The company has rapidly scaled up its operations, now operating four drilling rigs on site. This expansion demonstrates Rome's commitment to accelerating its exploration efforts and maximizing the potential of its concessions.

The drilling program initially targeted 3,000 meters across two main areas: the Kalayi Project (approximately 1,000 meters drilled) and the Mont Agoma Project (over 330 meters drilled). However, management is considering extending the program beyond this target, capitalizing on the established logistics and operational efficiencies.

Investors should note the company's adept handling of logistical challenges in the DRC. Despite the remote location requiring helicopter access, Rome Resources has successfully established a fully operational camp and supply bases. This infrastructure not only supports current operations but also provides a foundation for potential expansion.

Market conditions for tin, one of Rome's primary target minerals, appear favorable. Tin prices are holding steady at around $32,500 per ton, with potential for upward pressure due to supply constraints and increasing demand. Barrett draws a compelling comparison to a nearby operation that achieves a net revenue of $20,000 per ton at current prices, illustrating the potential profitability of successful discoveries in the region.

The company is also exploring for copper, a metal crucial for the global transition to clean energy and advanced technologies. This dual focus provides potential diversification benefits and exposure to two critical metals with strong long-term demand fundamentals.

Investors can expect a steady flow of news in the coming months, with assay results anticipated in November 2023. These results will provide crucial insights into the potential scale and quality of Rome Resources' mineral assets.

However, potential investors should be aware of the risks associated with early-stage exploration companies. Rome Resources has yet to define a resource or reserve, and there's no guarantee that the current drilling program will result in an economically viable deposit. Additionally, operating in the DRC carries geopolitical risks that must be considered.

Despite these challenges, Rome Resources presents an opportunity for investors seeking early-stage exposure to critical minerals in a promising geological setting. The company's experienced management team, led by CEO Paul Barrett, demonstrates operational competence and a clear strategy for advancing its exploration projects.

The macro environment for tin and copper remains supportive, with both metals playing crucial roles in the ongoing global transition to clean energy and advanced technologies. This backdrop could potentially lead to sustained high prices and increased investment in the sector.

In conclusion, Rome Resources offers investors a chance to participate in the early stages of what could become a significant tin and copper play. While the risks are substantial, as with any junior explorer, the potential rewards of a major discovery in the current market environment are equally considerable. Investors should conduct thorough due diligence and carefully consider their risk tolerance before making any investment decisions.

View Rome Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/rome-resources

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