Interview with Lee Barker, President & CEO of Sparton Resources Inc.

Recording date: 30th September 2024

Sparton Resources Inc. (TSXV:SRI) presents a unique investment opportunity in the junior resource sector, offering exposure to both critical minerals exploration and advanced energy storage technology. Led by industry veteran Lee Barker, the company leverages decades of experience in mineral discovery and development.

At the core of Sparton's value proposition is its stake in VRB Energy, a developer of vanadium redox flow batteries. Recent developments in this investment could prove transformative. VRB Energy has formed a joint venture in China, with a major Chinese conglomerate taking a 51% stake. This partnership includes a $55 million investment and plans for two new battery manufacturing facilities in China. VRB Energy is also spinning out VRB USA, which will focus on developing battery manufacturing capabilities in the United States. This move addresses geopolitical concerns and opens up new market opportunities. There's potential for a liquidity event through a possible public listing of VRB USA, which could allow Sparton to monetize its investment.

On the exploration front, Sparton maintains a diversified portfolio of projects.  A drilling program is set to begin soon, supported by government funding, on the Pense-Montreuil Critical Metals Project in Ontario, targeting copper, zinc, nickel, and cobalt. The Bruell Gold Property, a joint venture with Eldorado Gold. Negotiations are underway to potentially sell Sparton's remaining 25% stake or exchange it for other exploration assets. The Oakes Gold Property, located near producing mines, with five untested drill targets and potential for both gold and copper mineralization.

Sparton employs several strategies to manage its cash position, including securing government grants, forming joint ventures with major mining companies, and generating revenue through its wholly-owned drilling subsidiary, EDCOR Drilling.

The company is well-positioned to benefit from macro trends driving demand for critical minerals and energy storage solutions, including the electrification of transportation, integration of renewable energy, and global decarbonization efforts.

However, investors should be aware of the risks inherent in junior mining stocks, including market volatility, exploration uncertainties, and financing challenges. The path from exploration to production is long and uncertain, and the energy storage space is highly competitive.

Key catalysts to watch include:
Updates on the VRB Energy joint venture and VRB USA spin-out
Results from the upcoming drilling program at the Pense property
Outcome of negotiations with Eldorado Gold regarding the Brébeuf property

Sparton Resources trades at a market capitalization that may not fully reflect the potential value of its VRB Energy stake and exploration assets. As CEO Lee Barker notes, "We believe that over time there'll be some value recognized." For investors with a tolerance for risk and a long-term perspective, Sparton offers exposure to critical sectors of the new energy economy.

View Sparton Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/sparton-resources-inc

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