Interview with Gwen Preston, VP Investor Relations of West Red Lake Gold Mines Ltd.

Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/west-red-lake-gold-mines-tsxvwrlg-near-term-gold-production-6264

Recording date: 19th December 2024

West Red Lake Gold Mines (WRLG) is on the cusp of reviving the historic Madsen gold mine in the renowned Red Lake district of Ontario, Canada. The company acquired the previously producing high-grade asset out of bankruptcy and has spent the last 18 months aggressively de-risking and advancing it back towards production.

The flagship Madsen project boasts a robust indicated resource of 1.7 million ounces grading 7.4 g/t gold, with the potential for further growth. WRLG's phased restart plan centers on initially mining the easily-accessible high-grade Upper 8 Zone deposit. A new Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS), due out in early 2025, is expected to showcase an operation producing 60-65,000 ounces of gold annually. At current gold prices, this should generate significant free cash flow.

Over the past year, WRLG has checked off several key de-risking milestones at Madsen. This includes completing over 80,000 meters of infill drilling to better define resources, developing additional underground access to support future mining, and finishing key surface infrastructure projects. The company also constructed a new Connector Drift which will allow for ore and waste haulage from the larger West Portal, greatly enhancing operational efficiency.

Looking ahead, major upcoming catalysts for WRLGM include the PFS in early 2025, processing of an 8,000 tonne bulk sample to confirm grade continuity, and a construction decision underpinned by a recently secured $35M project debt facility. Madsen benefits from extensive existing infrastructure and a relatively modest go-forward capex profile.

From a macro perspective, gold looks poised for a strong run in 2025 as the U.S. dollar weakens, real rates remain in negative territory, and safe haven demand picks up steam. This should provide a favorable backdrop for advancing assets like Madsen. Many analysts see the yellow metal retesting its all-time high above $2,000 per ounce in the coming year.

Despite its advanced stage and near-term path to production, WRLG still trades at a discount to peer gold developers. However, this valuation gap is expected to close as Madsen hits key de-risking milestones in 2025 and the market gains confidence in the company's ability to execute. With a market capitalization of over C$150 million, WRLG looks to have ample room to re-rate higher as it transitions into the producer ranks.

In a precious metals bull market, single-asset developers in premium jurisdictions with near-term growth tend to command premium valuations. WRLG has positioned itself to join this club in 2025 through the disciplined advancement of the Madsen gold project. With a clear path to first production, a robust high-grade resource base, and multiple exploration targets, WRLG offers a compelling opportunity for investors seeking gold exposure via an emerging Canadian producer.

View West Red Lake Gold Mines' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/west-red-lake-gold-mines-inc

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