Zak Mir talks to Howard White, Interim Chairman, Hydrogen Utopia, as the pioneer in transforming non-recyclable mixed waste into clean hydrogen, announces that it has now signed a binding outline agreement with InEnTec Inc. covering the MENA region.

Hydrogen Utopia’s journey has not been without hurdles. Initially, the company followed the European Union’s ambitious hydrogen initiatives, investing heavily in technology development. However, as Howard White explains, the EU’s regulatory environment proved restrictive and slow-moving, with limited progress despite substantial efforts and resources. White reflects on this experience candidly, acknowledging the shared sacrifices made by shareholders and leadership alike.

 “When you bang your head against the wall long enough and it hurts, you stop banging your head against the wall and you look for something else.”

This realization led Hydrogen Utopia to refocus on the MENA region, particularly the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where governments are eager to invest in proven, scalable solutions. Unlike the EU, these countries prioritize technologies with demonstrated operational success, ready to back large-scale projects with billions of dollars in funding.

A major milestone for Hydrogen Utopia is its partnership with InEnTec Inc., a company with a fully operational, full-scale system running in the United States for over 13 years. This technology, which converts mixed waste into hydrogen at high temperatures (around 2,500°C), offers a tangible, low-risk solution that GCC nations can confidently adopt.

White emphasizes the importance of this technology readiness level 9 (TRL9) status, explaining that it allows Hydrogen Utopia to present not just a concept but a working model to potential clients, significantly reducing investment risk.

 “They want to see something that works. They want to go and look at it and then they want to put the money in it.”

This readiness is critical in a region where timeframes for project approval and construction are much shorter than in Europe, enabling rapid deployment and operation.

One of the most promising applications for Hydrogen Utopia’s technology lies in the decarbonization of the construction industry, which is booming in the MENA region. Cement production, a major source of CO2 emissions, traditionally relies on coal, natural gas, and waste materials such as tires and plastics as fuel sources. Hydrogen Utopia’s solution offers a way to replace these carbon-intensive fuels with clean hydrogen produced locally, right next to cement plants.

White highlights the scale of this opportunity:

Producing hydrogen onsite avoids the high costs and inefficiencies associated with transporting hydrogen from distant solar-powered electrolysis plants, which can more than double the price. Hydrogen Utopia’s approach can deliver low-carbon hydrogen at approximately $4.50 to $5 per kilogram, making it economically competitive.

Moreover, the technology can process challenging waste streams such as tires and plastics by breaking them down to their molecular components. This process not only generates hydrogen but also produces clean CO2 suitable for carbon capture utilization and sequestration (CCUS).

Hydrogen Utopia’s system includes a gas water shift process that doubles hydrogen output while producing pure CO2. This CO2 can be used in enhanced oil recovery (EOR), a technique where CO2 is injected into depleted oil fields to extract remaining oil and simultaneously trap the CO2 underground, effectively sequestering it.

Such CCUS applications are a key part of the UAE’s and Saudi Arabia’s environmental strategies, aligning with their ambitions to lead in carbon reduction technologies.

Plastic waste, which is projected to increase from 400 million tons per year today to 1.5 billion tons by 2050, presents a significant environmental challenge. Traditional recycling methods are energy intensive and do not eliminate plastic pollution but merely repurpose it.

Hydrogen Utopia’s technology offers a solution by destroying plastic waste at the molecular level, converting it into clean hydrogen and CO2, thereby removing plastic from the environment rather than recycling it into new products.

The response from cement producers and other industrial clients in the GCC has been overwhelmingly positive. White notes that many companies recognize Hydrogen Utopia’s solution as the only viable decarbonization path currently available to them.

With a working system already operational in the US, potential clients can verify the technology firsthand, which significantly accelerates decision-making and project financing.

Funding for projects will typically be structured through special purpose vehicles (SPVs), with offtake agreements securing the sale of hydrogen before construction begins. This model reduces financial risk and streamlines investment, especially given the scale of potential customers, some valued at tens of billions of dollars.

Howard White candidly addresses the skepticism around hydrogen investments, acknowledging past disappointments but emphasizing Hydrogen Utopia’s relatively short history of just over four years in a challenging market environment.

He critiques the confusing “color” coding of hydrogen—green, gray, blue, turquoise—as marketing jargon that obscures the real issue, which is the carbon intensity of production. In the MENA region, the focus is simply on low-carbon hydrogen, regardless of color.

 “Hydrogen actually is colorless. It’s all the same color.”

White remains optimistic about the company’s trajectory, comparing Hydrogen Utopia’s turnaround to McLaren’s dramatic improvement in Formula 1 racing. He stresses that with proven technology, a receptive market, and supportive regional governments, the company is poised for rapid growth and multiple project sales in the near future.

Hydrogen Utopia’s innovative approach to producing clean hydrogen from mixed waste positions it as a key player in the MENA region’s energy transition. By leveraging proven technology, aligning with regional economic visions, and addressing critical environmental challenges such as cement industry emissions and plastic waste, the company offers a compelling solution with significant commercial potential.

As governments in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Gulf countries accelerate their decarbonization efforts, Hydrogen Utopia’s model of localized, low-carbon hydrogen production could become a blueprint for sustainable industrial growth in the region and beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates as Hydrogen Utopia moves forward with its ambitious projects and partnerships, driving real-world change in the clean energy landscape.

Zak Mir talks to Cameron Pearce, Executive Chairman of Blencowe Resources, as the company reports the successful completion of three deep drill holes at the Northern Syncline, following the recent success at the Beehive target. The Northern Syncline drilling complements earlier results from Beehive.

It reinforces the potential for a materially larger resource base at depth, supporting longer mine life and an expanded valuation in the Company's upcoming Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS).

Blencowe Resources holds an extraordinary graphite resource, boasting over two billion tons of graphite. Yet, the company’s market cap, at roughly thirteen million, does not yet reflect the massive potential of this asset. Cameron Pierce acknowledges this disparity and believes the completion of the DFS will be a defining moment, bridging the gap between the project’s scale and its market valuation.

"We have got a project of global significance here, and we're getting lots of interest. I think the penny is starting to drop," Pierce said, highlighting the anticipation surrounding the DFS.

One of the standout developments for Blencowe Resources is its partnership with the US Development Finance Corporation (DFC), which has invested $5 million in the company. This partnership is not only a substantial financial boost but also a strategic endorsement, as the DFC typically invests only in companies with assets critical to US interests.

Pierce expressed his excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing the credibility it brings to Blencowe Resources:

"We are thrilled to have a fit in the US government as our partner... They frankly are loving everything we're doing."

The DFC’s involvement includes multiple grants, with more funding anticipated as Blencowe progresses towards completing its DFS. This support plays a crucial role in advancing the project and demonstrates confidence in Blencowe’s strategic value.

Addressing common concerns in the small-cap market about continuous funding needs, Cameron Pierce reassures stakeholders that Blencowe Resources is well-positioned financially. The company has structured its funding carefully, utilizing warrants and strategic partnerships to ensure it is fully funded to complete the DFS and beyond.

Pierce shared his outlook on future financing:

"I fully suspect that I will have more money than I need sooner rather than later... I don't lose any sleep over concerns about financing."

This financial confidence is essential, as it allows the team to focus on delivering results and advancing the project without the distractions of funding uncertainties.

The DFS is a pivotal milestone for Blencowe Resources. It will provide a detailed assessment of the project’s viability and potential scale, increasing investor confidence and likely boosting the company’s market capitalization.

Currently, the DFS covers about two percent of the project area, with ongoing drilling extending the known mineralization deeper and wider. Recent drilling results at the Northern Syncline, alongside previous success at the Beehive target, suggest the resource base could be materially larger than initially estimated.

Pierce described the excitement around the drilling results and their implications:

"We've drilled a hundred meters and got mineralization the whole way down... this is probably one of the best graphite assets on the planet."

Blencowe Resources' graphite project is located in a highly prospective East African belt, comparable to some of the best-known graphite projects globally. Geological experts on the company’s board, including Alex Bassmore, have praised the asset’s quality and potential.

According to Pierce, the project’s scale and quality make it a rare find:

"If you don't take this project, you are mad... it is an amazing asset."

This endorsement reflects the company’s confidence in the project's long-term value and strategic importance.

With the global focus on critical minerals intensifying, particularly amid geopolitical tensions and supply chain concerns, Blencowe Resources is well-positioned as a key player. Graphite is essential for numerous high-tech applications, including electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy technologies.

Pierce highlights how the current environment favors companies like Blencowe:

"The focus on critical minerals is at its height. I could not be more excited for the rest of the years ahead."

As governments and industries seek secure, sustainable sources of critical materials, Blencowe’s strategic assets and partnerships place it firmly in the spotlight.

In the near term, investors and stakeholders can look forward to several key developments:

These milestones will be critical in unlocking the full potential of Blencowe Resources and elevating its market presence.

Blencowe Resources stands at a pivotal moment in its journey, with a world-class graphite resource, strong strategic partnerships, and a soon-to-be-completed DFS that promises to redefine the company’s valuation and market perception. Cameron Pierce’s leadership and vision underscore the company’s commitment to delivering value and capitalizing on the growing demand for critical minerals.

As the global economy shifts towards sustainable technologies, Blencowe Resources is uniquely positioned to be a key supplier of essential graphite, making it a compelling story to watch in the mining sector.

Zak Mir talks to Greg Martyr, Executive Chairman, Capital Metals, in the wake of the mineral sands company approaching mine development stage at the high-grade Taprobane Minerals Project in Sri Lanka, updating on drilling within the northern EL168 area, focusing on the Initial Mining Area of the existing 17.2 Mt Mineral Resource.

Greg Martr opened by reflecting on a particularly active six months for Capital Metals. Since their last update, the company has made significant strides, including a successful transaction with the Ambient Group. Greg expressed enthusiasm about the new doors this partnership has opened, emphasizing that the collaboration is already proving valuable, despite being only two weeks in.

Capital Metals also recently completed a rapidly oversubscribed fundraising round, which was closed early to avoid excessive dilution at the 2.5p share price level. Greg noted the strong support from shareholders and hinted at ongoing discussions regarding the potential exercise of options, signaling healthy interest and confidence in the company’s trajectory.

One of the most anticipated updates concerned Capital Metals’ drilling program within the northern EL168 area, focusing on the Initial Mining Area of the existing 17.2 million tonnes mineral resource. Greg reported the completion of the first phase with 170 holes drilled, totaling just over 1,500 meters. This drilling effort marks a substantial increase in depth compared to the 2016 resource calculations, which averaged only 1.6 meters, whereas the recent drilling averaged about 9 meters per hole, with some extending as far as 15 meters.

What stands out in this phase is the continuation of mineralization down to the basement rock in certain locations. While this extended mineralization is not uniform across all holes, the encouraging results point to the potential for a more substantial resource than previously understood. Assay results are expected shortly, which will provide further clarity on the resource’s quality and extent.

Greg highlighted the initiation of research coverage by Hannam & Partners, a respected name in mining research known for their rigorous analysis. This development represents a significant endorsement for Capital Metals, often seen as a “gold standard” in the sector. The research team’s detailed review of Capital Metals’ financial models has already led to improvements in the Net Present Value (NPV) calculations, with an updated model currently being finalized.

The company’s relatively low capital expenditure (capex) requirements further enhance its appeal. As mineralization increases, the economics of the project improve, making it more cost-effective to extract the resources. This combination of low capex and growing resource size is a powerful advantage as Capital Metals moves toward its investment decision.

Discussing the broader market context, Greg noted that the project’s sector is largely insulated from the ongoing tariffs and export restrictions affecting other industries, particularly Sri Lanka’s garment sector. While the garment industry faces uncertainty, the resource sector is gaining increasing importance for foreign investment in Sri Lanka. This shift benefits Capital Metals by positioning it favorably in the eyes of investors and policymakers alike.

Despite the complexities of the market, Capital Metals’ shares have shown remarkable strength, rising nearly 80% so far this year. Greg acknowledged that while the market can be volatile with limited sellers, the goal is to attract more professional investors. The backing of Hannam & Partners is expected to bring in this new wave of buyers, helping to stabilize and potentially increase the share price further.

Looking ahead, Greg remains optimistic about ticking all the necessary boxes leading up to a final investment decision by the end of the year. The company is focused on continued progress and delivering results that will pave the way for mine development.

Capital Metals is clearly on an exciting path as it advances the Taprobane Minerals Project. With strong drilling results, strategic partnerships, and a favorable investment climate, the company is building momentum toward its goal of becoming a significant player in Sri Lanka’s resource sector. Stakeholders and observers alike will be watching closely as Capital Metals moves through the next critical phases of development.

For more updates and in-depth interviews on mining and resource projects, follow Zak Mir’s ongoing coverage and insights.

In a recent conversation with renowned investor Jim Mellon, Zak Mir delved deep into the state of the financial markets as we reach the midpoint of 2025. Jim, known as one of the UK’s largest and most astute investors, shared his candid views on the evolving global economic landscape, highlighting key opportunities and risks for investors today. 

So far this year, the markets have experienced significant turbulence, exemplified by what Jim refers to as the “tariff dip” — a sharp market decline triggered by renewed tariff tensions and geopolitical uncertainties. However, rather than retreating, Jim and his team saw this as a buying opportunity, particularly focusing on regions outside the United States.

While many investors were fixated on the US market, Jim emphasized that his portfolio strategy deliberately concentrated on Europe, the UK, and Asia, with a selective approach to US stocks. This regional focus has paid off well, as these markets have demonstrated resilience amid global headwinds.

One of the major themes Jim highlighted was the precarious fiscal position of the United States. He pointed out that the US economy is taxed at approximately 30%, but government spending sits at 38%, creating a widening fiscal gap that poses serious risks. This imbalance, he warned, could trigger severe disruptions in the US bond market and a significant depreciation of the US dollar over the next year.

Given these risks, Jim advises investors to generally avoid the US market, except for a few select stocks. Instead, he advocates for increased exposure to the UK, Europe, Asia, and emerging markets, which he believes will be the primary beneficiaries of the challenges facing the US economy.

Read More https://www.share-talk.com/interview-with-jim-mellon-insights-on-the-2025-market-landscape-and-investment-strategies/

Great Southern Copper plc (LSE: GSCU) continues to make exciting strides at its Cerro Negro project in Chile, particularly at the Mustasa Mine. The recent Phase 2 drilling campaign has delivered spectacular assay results, confirming the presence of high-grade copper and silver mineralization and setting the stage for an ambitious Phase 3 drilling program.

As we delve deeper into the findings, it becomes clear that this project holds tremendous promise, driven by a combination of thorough exploration, advanced geophysical surveys, and a dedicated on-site team committed to unlocking the full potential of the deposit.

The Mustasa Mine, a core asset within the Cerro Negro project, has been the focus of Great Southern Copper’s exploration efforts. The Phase 2 drilling program, recently completed, has yielded impressive results that have energized both the on-site team and shareholders alike. One of the standout drill holes, CNG25-DD013, intersected a 5-meter zone grading 3.04% copper (Cu) and a remarkable 322.4 grams per tonne (g/t) silver (Ag) within a broader 13.9-meter interval averaging 1.74% Cu and 153.4 g/t Ag. These numbers are not just encouraging—they are spectacular and underscore the high-grade nature of the mineralization at Mustasa.

Additionally, drillhole DD012 confirmed mineralization located 500 meters south of the mine, extending the known footprint of the deposit and highlighting the potential for further discoveries beyond the immediate mining area. This southern extension is particularly exciting as it suggests that the mineralized system is more extensive than initially thought, offering a larger resource base to explore and develop.

https://www.share-talk.com/sam-garrett-chief-executive-officer-of-great-southern-copper-talking-with-andrew-scott/

Zak Mir talks to Howard White, Chairman of Hydrogen Utopia, a company specialising in turning non-recyclable mixed waste plastic into hydrogen. 

This interview with Howard White, Chairman of Hydrogen Utopia, sheds light on the company’s groundbreaking partnership with InEnTec Inc., a firm renowned for its advanced waste-to-hydrogen plasma technology. Together, they aim to revolutionise the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region’s approach to sustainable energy and waste management.

Howard White begins by expressing his heartfelt condolences over the loss of Simon Mann, a former chairman and a close friend, acknowledging the impact this has had on the company. Yet, amidst this sombre note, there is a palpable sense of optimism as Hydrogen Utopia announces a significant breakthrough. The company has signed heads of terms with InEnTec Inc. for exclusive access to ten licences of InEnTec’s TRL9 (Technology Readiness Level 9) plasma technology, marking a pivotal moment in their mission to convert waste into clean hydrogen.

This development is the culmination of relentless effort, particularly by the company’s CEO Alexandra, whose tireless work helped rekindle the connection with InEnTec, a technology that Howard first encountered back in 2008 during his tenure at AFC Energy. This plasma technology, initially designed for hazardous waste disposal, has evolved into an efficient method for producing clean syngas and subsequently hydrogen, providing a robust foundation for Hydrogen Utopia’s ambitious plans.

Plasma technology, often referred to as the fourth state of matter alongside solids, liquids, and gases, is essentially a controlled, continuous lightning bolt generated between two electrodes. This process breaks down waste materials at a molecular level, converting them into syngas—a mixture rich in hydrogen and carbon monoxide. Howard’s extensive experience with plasma projects, including collaborations in Thailand and with notable figures like Roman Abramovich, lends deep credibility to the technology’s potential.

What makes InEnTec’s plasma system particularly compelling is its ability to handle virtually any form of waste, including mixed plastics, tyres, and even turbine blades, transforming these materials into valuable outputs with minimal environmental impact. Initially, the technology operated on high gate fees for waste destruction, but advancements such as integrating a gas water shift process have doubled hydrogen production and generated food-grade CO2 as a byproduct.

https://www.share-talk.com/zak-mir-talks-to-howard-white-non-executive-chairman-of-hydrogen-utopia-intl/

Zak Mir talks to Greg Martyr, Executive Chairman, Capital Metals as the mineral sands company approaching mine development stage at the high-grade Taprobane Minerals Project in Sri Lanka, announces a strategic investment of US$2 million by Ambeon Capital PLC together with an option for a period of 45 days for it or its nominated investors to invest up to a further US$2 million.

In this detailed article, we delve into an insightful conversation with Greg Martr, the Executive Chairman of Capital Metals, a mineral sands company on the verge of mine development at the high-grade Taprobane Minerals Project in Sri Lanka.

This interview reveals exciting news about a strategic investment and the subsequent project development that is set to propel Capital Metals forward. Drawing from our discussion, I explore the significance of this investment, the partnership with a local fund group, the company's funding strategy, and the promising outlook for the project and its share price.

Capital Metals recently announced a strategic investment of US$2 million by Ambeon Capital PLC, a well-established fund group based in Sri Lanka, with an option to invest an additional US$2 million within 45 days. This development is a major milestone for Capital Metals as it nears the final investment decision (FID) stage for the Taprobane Minerals Project. The investment not only provides crucial funding but also brings on board a valuable local partner with deep commercial and mining sector experience.

Greg Martr shared that the relationship with Ambeon Capital was established through an interesting and somewhat serendipitous introduction last October. The three key principals of Ambeon were educated in Australia, have extensive funds under management, and returned to Sri Lanka about 15 years ago to establish their fund group. Their understanding of mining in Sri Lanka, though somewhat rare, made them an ideal partner for Capital Metals. Greg emphasised the smooth collaboration and mutual understanding that developed quickly between the two parties, which is critical for the joint venture’s success.

https://www.share-talk.com/greg-martr-the-executive-chairman-of-capital-metals-talks-to-zak-mir/

In a recent engaging conversation with Zak Mir, CEO of Roadside Real Estate, Charles Dixon shared valuable insights ahead of the company’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for mid-June. This interview provides a comprehensive look into Roadside Real Estate’s strategic direction, recent financial achievements, and plans to reward shareholders, including a significant share buyback proposal.

Last year marked a remarkable milestone for Roadside Real Estate, with its shares appreciating more than threefold. This achievement not only reflects the company’s robust business model but also the strategic decisions made by its leadership. Charles Dixon expressed his satisfaction with this performance and highlighted the potential for further share price appreciation.

Central to the company’s plans is a proposed share buyback, which was subtly included in the recent AGM notice. This buyback allows the company to repurchase up to 10% of its ordinary share capital, a move that has already garnered shareholder support. The buyback strategy is driven by the proceeds from the company’s divestment activities, particularly from its stake in Cambridge Sleep Sciences (CSS).

“We wanted to be able to reward our shareholders but also provide liquidity to them,” Charles explained. This buyback not only signals confidence in the company’s future prospects but also offers shareholders a direct benefit, enhancing shareholder value without dilution.

https://www.share-talk.com/interview-roadside-real-estate-insights-from-ceo-charles-dixon/

In today’s feature, we delve deep into the exciting developments at Fulcrum Metals, a technology-led company focused on recovering precious metals from mine tailings in Canada. An insightful discussion inspires this article with Ryan Mee, CEO of Fulcrum Metals, hosted by Zak Mir.

Together, they explore a groundbreaking Master Licence Agreement signed with Extrakt Process Solutions LLC, positioning Fulcrum Metals at the forefront of tailings processing in some of Canada’s richest gold mining regions.

Mining tailings, often overlooked, represent a significant opportunity for precious metals recovery. These tailings are essentially mine waste left on the surface after primary extraction processes. Fulcrum Metals has identified a unique niche in processing these tailings, particularly in the prolific gold camps of Kirkland Lake and Timmins, Ontario.

Ryan Mee shared that the company’s recent exclusivity agreement with Extrakt Process Solutions is nothing short of a gamechanger. After a year and a half of negotiations, Fulcrum Metals secured exclusive licensing rights to Extrakt’s breakthrough technology for tailings processing. This exclusive partnership covers Canada’s top two gold camps—Kirkland Lake and Timmins—both renowned for their rich mining history and extensive tailings sites.

What makes this deal truly unique is its exclusivity. According to Ryan, “No one anywhere in the world has this type of deal with Extrakt.” This exclusivity provides Fulcrum Metals with a clear pathway to production and growth, leveraging over 700 million US dollars in situ estimated value across their projects. Considering the company’s market cap of just 2.5 million, this represents an extraordinary value proposition, especially when factoring in additional exploration assets and monetised portfolios such as uranium and the recently announced Tully deal.

https://www.share-talk.com/interview-fulcrum-metals-revolutionising-precious-metals-recovery-from-tailings-in-canada/

Zak Mir talks to Andy Carroll, CEO of Mosman Oil & Gas, in the wake of today’s news that the helium, hydrogen, and hydrocarbon exploration, development, and production company has announced the spudding of the first exploration well of a five-well programme in the Vecta Project, Las Animas County, Colorado, US.

·      | Drilling has commenced and surface casing set.

·      | The Barclay-TH 295 106A well will test the Lyons Sandstone formation at the Billy Goat lease area (“AMI”), with a planned total depth (“TD”) of circa 800ft in the Lyons Sandstone.

·      | Drilling will continue to determine top of Lyons formation, and then to TD.

·      | Gas will be tested to determine concentrations of gases, including helium.

·      | Wireline logging will be conducted at TD to determine the reservoir and gas/fluid properties.

Vecta Project (90% interest in Billy Goat, 20% working interest in other areas)

The Vecta Project is operated by Vecta and is located in Las Animas County, close to the Red Rocks helium producing field, and Blue Star Helium’s Galactica development project. Helium concentrations of up to 11% have been encountered in offset wells and fields in the area, with the closest well, Texaco Cynthia True-1, flowing 8.8% helium from the upper Lyons sandstone.

A total of five wells are planned to be drilled in this drilling campaign, testing five individual structural closures.

Andy Carroll, Chief Executive Officer of Mosman, said: “The drilling of this Billy Goat well is exciting given the excellent lease position in a proven area of helium development and production

“Each well location has been carefully selected by the very experienced team at Vecta and we believe each well has an excellent chance of discovering helium. The low-cost drilling of these wells enables data to be obtained at very reasonable cost.

“This location has good access to infrastructure including roads, pipelines and the Ladder Creek helium plant located at Cheyenne Wells, about 100 miles north of Billy Goat.”