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After-Tax NPV(8%) of $473M and IRR of 49% at USD $1,000/mtu WO3; Fully funded 20,000m Drill Program Underway to Expand Scale of the Borralha Project

Key Highlights:

  • Robust Economics: After-tax NPV(8%)1 of $473.4 million (USD $346.6 million) and IRR2 of 48.8% at USD $1,000/mtu WO₃3.

  • Capital Efficient Development: Initial capital4 of approximately $124.2 million (USD $91 million) with 4.2-year payback5.

  • Strong Base Case: After-tax IRR2 of 27.2% and NPV(8%)1 of $182.7 million (USD $134.0 million) at ~USD $704/mtu WO₃ (Argus long-term forecast).

  • Significant Upside Leverage: After-tax IRR2 of 78.4% and NPV(8%)1 of $963.8 million (USD $706.4 million) at USD $1,500/mtu WO₃.

  • Resource Growth Just Beginning: Fully funded 20,000-metre drill program underway at the Borralha Project targeting resource expansion and potential mine life extension well beyond the initial 11-year mine plan.

All amounts in Canadian dollars unless stated otherwise.

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – March 2, 2026) – Allied Critical Metals Inc. (CSE: ACM,OTC:ACMIF) (OTCQB: ACMIF) (FSE: 0VJ0) (‘Allied‘ or the ‘Company‘) is pleased to announce the results of its initial Preliminary Economic Assessment (‘PEA‘) for its 100%-owned Borralha Tungsten Project (‘Borralha‘ or the ‘Project‘) in northern Portugal.

‘The completion of the PEA marks another important milestone for the Company. In addition to the significant tailwinds provided by the significant increase in the price of tungsten, which has surged to more than USD $1,900/mtu [Source: Fastmarkets], we are very pleased to see have been able to receive support from idD Portugal Defence, the Portuguese public entity overseeing the nation’s Defence Industry, which has endorsed the Borralha Project as a strategic initiative of national importance. We have also received a favourable Environmental Impact Declaration, subject to standard regulatory conditions (Declaração de Impacte Ambiental Favorável Condicionada – ‘DIA’) from the Portuguese Environment Agency (Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente, I.P. – APA),’ commented Roy Bonnell, CEO and Director of Allied. ‘We could not be more pleased with the considerable advancement of the Borralha Project and look forward to continuing to more progress at the Borralha Project and the Vila Verde Project, which are both strategic critical mineral tungsten assets well positioned within the EU.’

The PEA outlines a technically robust and capital-efficient underground tungsten development project within the European Union, delivering strong economics across a range of pricing assumptions. Importantly, the study reflects only the Santa Helena Breccia deposit and an initial 11-year mine plan. The Company is committed to long term expansion of the current resource estimate and as such has recently commenced a fully funded 20,000-metre drill program designed to expand the current resource and enhance long-term project scale.

Initial PEA Economic Summary (After-Tax) for the Borralha Project

Medium Case – USD $1,000/mtu WO₃
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$473.4 million4 48.8% 4.2 years
(USD$ 346.6 million)
Base Case – Argus Long-Term Forecast (US$677 to $763/mtu WO₃; ~USD $704/mtu WO₃ Average)
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$182.7 million4 27.2% 5.8 years
(USD$ 134.0 million)
High Case – USD $1,500/mtu WO₃
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$963.8 million4 78.4% 3.2 years
(USD$ 706.4 million)

 

Notes:
1. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV.
2. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
3. Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.
4. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.

Mine design and cut-off grade selection were developed using a conservative USD $659/mtu WO₃ assumption. Recent reported tungsten market prices have reached approximately USD $1,998/mtu [Source: Fastmarkets; February 27, 2026], demonstrating meaningful leverage to current market conditions.

Initial Mine Plan – Strong Base with Expansion Potential

  • Mine life: 11 years

  • Average annual production: ~1,708 tonnes WO₃

  • Peak annual production: 2,388 tonnes WO₃

  • Processing rate: 1.4 million tonnes per annum

  • Average mill feed grade: 0.20% WO₃

  • All-in sustaining cost (AISC)6 estimate: ~USD $303/mtu WO₃ (CAD $413.84/mtu WO₃)

The PEA mine plan incorporates Measured, Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources from the Santa Helena Breccia deposit. Mineralization remains open along strike and at depth.

The ongoing 20,000-metre drill program is targeting:

  • Expansion of the current 13.0 Mt Measured & Indicated resource

  • Conversion of Inferred resources into higher-confidence categories

  • Potential extension of mine life beyond 11 years

  • Evaluation of throughput optimization and scale growth

The Company views this initial PEA as a foundational step in what is expected to be a multi-stage growth strategy at the Borralha Project.

Roy Bonnell, CEO & Director commented, ‘This initial PEA confirms the Borralha Project as a high-return, capital-efficient tungsten development project in a Tier-1 European jurisdiction. At USD $1,000 per mtu (significantly below current reported market pricing) the Borralha Project generates a 48.8% after-tax IRR with modest initial capital of approximately USD $91 million.

Importantly, this PEA reflects only the Santa Helena Breccia and an initial 11-year mine plan. With future exploration work and the 20,000 meters of drilling currently underway, we are focused on expanding resources, extending mine life and enhancing overall project scale. We believe we are at the beginning of unlocking the Borralha Project’s full potential.

Combined with a favourable Environmental Impact Declaration, we believe that this PEA opens the door to project level financing for both our industrial scale plant and our pilot plant at the Vila Verde Project.’

Introduction

This initial PEA contemplates development of an underground mining operation at the Santa Helena Breccia deposit within Borralha with a nominal processing capacity of 1.4 million tonnes per annum, utilizing conventional crushing, grinding and gravity concentration to produce a saleable Wolframite concentrate grading approximately 65% WO₃.

The Borralha Project has received a favourable Environmental Impact Declaration (‘DIA’), materially advancing permitting and reducing development risk relative to many global tungsten projects.

Economic Summary

This initial PEA was developed using three pricing frameworks: (i) Low/Base Case: Argus long-term forecast (variable annually) averaging approx. USD $704 per mtu WO₃; (ii) USD $1,000 per mtu WO₃; and (iii) USD $1,500 per mtu WO₃.

Mine design and cut-off grade selection were developed using a conservative price assumption of USD $659 per mtu WO₃.

Table 1 — Economic Results (After-Tax)

Scenario Price1 NPV (8%)2 IRR3 Payback4
Medium $1,365/mtu
(USD $1,000/mtu)
$473.4M
(USD $346.6M)
48.8% 4.2 years
Base $962/mtu
(USD $704/mtu)
$182.7M
(USD $134.0M)
27.2% 5.8 years
High $2,049/mtu
(USD $1,500/mtu)
$963.8M
(USD $706.4M)
78.4% 3.2 years

 
Notes:
1. Prices based on Argus Media Group price forecasts. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.
2. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV. M = million.
3. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
4. Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.

The results highlight significant sensitivity to tungsten price while maintaining positive economics under conservative long-term assumptions.

For reference, current reported tungsten market prices are materially above the $1,365 per mtu (USD $1,000 per mtu) sensitivity case presented herein, reaching recently $2,729 per mtu (USD $1,998 per mtu) as at February 27, 2026 [Source: Fastmarkets.]

1. Project Overview

The Borralha Tungsten Project is located in the parish of Salto, municipality of Montalegre, district of Vila Real, Portugal. The project comprises a continuous exploitation concession area of approximately 382.48 hectares (3.82 km²).

This initial PEA has been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (‘NI 43-101‘) and is based on the updated Mineral Resource Estimate for the Santa Helena Breccia, effective December 30, 2025. See Company’s current technical report on Borralha (the ‘Technical Report‘) entitled ‘Technical Report on the Borralha Property, Parish of Salto, District of Vila Real, Portugal’, dated effective December 30, 2025, which is published on the Company’s website at www.alliedcritical.com and under its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Borralha represents one of the largest undeveloped tungsten resources within the European Union and benefits from gravity-dominant processing, reducing metallurgical risk relative to flotation-dependent systems. The project aligns with European critical raw material supply objectives.

2. Mineral Resource Estimate

This initial PEA is based on the updated Mineral Resource Estimate (‘MRE‘ or ‘2025 MRE‘) for the Santa Helena Breccia, which were presented in accordance with NI 43-101 in the Company’s current Technical Report.

Mineral Resources are reported in situ and undiluted and do not incorporate modifying factors such as mining dilution, mining recovery, metallurgical recovery, capital costs, operating costs, or economic analysis. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.

MRE Cut-off Grade: 0.09% WO₃

The cut-off grade was selected based on reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction under conceptual underground mining and gravity-dominant processing assumptions, including a very conservative tungsten price of USD$ 550/mtu WO₃ and assumed recovery of approximately 80% (for MRE cut-off determination only). The 2025 MRE reflects a material increase in tonnage and geological confidence relative to the previous mineral resource estimate published in March 2024.

Under the 2025 MRE, the Santa Helena Breccia has been tested by 41 drill holes and surface trenching over approximately 400 meters of strike length and to depths exceeding 350 meters below surface. Mineralization remains open along strike and at depth.

Table 2 — 2025 MRE for Borralha (see also Technical Report for further details)

Classification Tonnes (Mt) Grade (% WO3)
Measured + Indicated 13.0 0.21
Inferred 7.7 0.18

 

3. Mining Method and Production Plan

3.1 Selected Mining Method

The planned mining method for the Santa Helena Breccia involves using mostly long-hole open stoping with cemented paste backfill. This method was selected based on: (i) steeply dipping geometry of the breccia-hosted mineralization; (ii) demonstrated geological continuity; (iii) favorable rock mass conditions; (iv) productivity and operating cost advantages; and (v) reduced surface footprint.

Drift-and-fill mining is incorporated locally in narrower high-grade zones to enhance resource recovery. Open-pit mining and alternative underground methods were evaluated during the conceptual study stage and were not selected due to environmental constraints, scale suitability, and relative operating efficiency.

3.2 Mine Production Schedule

Key operating parameters:

  • Nominal processing rate: 1.4 million tonnes per annum
  • Estimated mine life: approximately 11 years
  • Total life-of-mine processed tonnes: approximately 13.4 million tonnes
  • Average life-of-mine mill feed grade: approximately 0.20% WO₃

The production schedule supports consistent mill feed and stable concentrate production throughout the mine life.

Table 3 — LoM Totals and Averages

Item Amount
Mine life (production years shown) 11 years (2028–2039)
Total ore processed 13,436,040 t
Weighted average WO₃ grade 0.203% WO₃ (≈0.20%)
Total contained WO₃ 27,332 t
Total recovered WO₃ @ 75% 20,499 t
Average annual recovered WO₃ @ 75% ~1,708 t/y

 

Table 4 — Life-of-Mine Schedule Summary

Year Ore Processed (t) Avg. WO₃ Grade (%) Recovered WO₃ (t)
2028 876,304 0.19 1,249
2029 988,042 0.20 1,482
2030 1,387,624 0.18 1,873
2031 1,339,273 0.19 1,908
2032 1,362,177 0.18 1,839
2033 1,373,856 0.23 2,370
2034 1,444,646 0.21 2,275
2035 1,447,061 0.22 2,388
2036 1,236,886 0.20 1,855
2037 1,226,553 0.20 1,840
2038 585,701 0.26 1,142
2039 167,917 0.22 277

 

3.3 Dilution and Recovery Assumptions

The mine plan incorporates Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Mineral Resources within a stope optimization framework consistent with long-hole open stoping methods.

Applied modifying factors include:

  • Mining dilution: approximately 8% (average between primary and secondary stopes)
  • Mining recovery: approximately 89%
    • ~90% for primary stopes
    • ~88% for secondary stopes
  • Drift-and-fill: approximately 7.5% dilution and 95% recovery

After application of these factors, the projected average life-of-mine mill feed grade is approximately 0.20% WO₃.

The PEA includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. There is no certainty that the results of the PEA will be realized.

Inferred material represents less than approximately 40% of the life-of-mine stope inventory on a volumetric basis and is predominantly located along the margins and outer extents of the deposit.

4. Metallurgy and Processing

4.1 Metallurgical Test Work

Metallurgical test work completed to date indicates that Santa Helena Breccia mineralization is amenable to gravity-dominant processing.

The initial metallurgical program (2023–2024) evaluated crushing, grinding, sulfide flotation, gravimetric concentration, and magnetic separation. Subsequent optimization reduced reliance on flotation by incorporating dense media separation (‘DMS‘) pre-concentration and enhanced gravity recovery.

4.2 Process Flow Sheet

The proposed process plant includes:

  • Three-stage crushing to approximately 6 mm
  • DMS pre-concentration on the 6–2 mm fraction (rejecting approximately 40% of mass)
  • Grinding of DMS product and -2 mm fraction to 1 mm
  • Gravimetric concentration using spirals and shaking tables
  • Magnetic and electrostatic separation for final concentrate upgrading
  • Flotation circuit for copper and tin recovery
  • Filtered tailings with dewatering and partial paste backfill return underground

4.3 Recovery and Concentrate Grades

Preliminary metallurgical recovery estimates:

  • Tungsten: 75%
  • Copper: ~60%
  • Tin: 30%

Expected concentrate specifications:

  • Tungsten concentrate: ~65% WO₃
  • Copper concentrate: ~21% Cu
  • Tin concentrate: ~50% Sn

Silver credits may partially report to the copper concentrate, subject to further test work confirmation.

5. Infrastructure and Site Requirements

The Borralha Project benefits from:

  • Regional road access
  • Grid power availability
  • Underground mining configuration minimizing surface disturbance
  • Filtered dry-stack tailings concept
  • Closed-loop water management system

6. Environmental and Permitting

In January 2026, the Portuguese Environment Agency issued a Favourable Environmental Impact Declaration (‘DIA‘) for the Borralha Project, subject to standard regulatory conditions.

This milestone confirms environmental acceptability of the proposed development and enables progression to the RECAPE stage and subsequent construction permitting.

The Borralha Project aligns with European Union critical raw material strategy and contributes to regional economic development objectives.

7. Economic Framework

7.1 Pricing Framework

The life-of-mine design, cut-off grade selection and production schedule were developed using a conservative tungsten price assumption of USD $659 per metric tonne unit (‘mtu‘) WO₃, consistent with the Argus long-term base case forecast. The Base Case economic model applies the Argus high-case long-term forecast on a year-by-year basis, ranging from approximately USD $763 per mtu in 2028 and gradually declining toward approximately USD $677 per mtu by 2040, for an average price of approximately USD $704 per mtu. [Source: Argus Media Group.]

This approach maintains a conservative technical design basis while allowing the economic analysis to reflect updated long-term market expectations without re-optimizing mine geometry.

Flat price sensitivity scenarios at USD $1,000/mtu and USD $1,500/mtu WO₃ are presented for comparative purposes.

7.2 Operating Cost Summary

The Borralha Project is based on conventional underground mining and gravity-dominant processing, resulting in a competitive cost structure.

Life-of-mine average operating costs7 are estimated at:

  • US$49 per tonne processed
  • Equivalent to approximately USD $245 per mtu WO₃ produced (based on a 0.20% average mill feed grade and 75% metallurgical recovery)

Operating cost components include:

  • Underground mining
  • Processing and plant operations
  • General and administrative costs
  • Site services and infrastructure support

The cost structure incorporates modifying factors of approximately 8% mining dilution, 89% mining recovery, and 75% metallurgical recovery.

7.3 All-In Sustaining Cost (AISC)

The Project’s estimated all-in sustaining cost8, inclusive of sustaining capital and site-level costs, is approximately: USD $303 per mtu WO₃.

This positions the Borralha Project competitively within the global tungsten cost curve.

7.4 Capital Costs

The PEA estimates capital costs9 as follows:

  • Initial capital cost: approximately USD $91 million (CAD $124.3 million)
  • Sustaining capital: approximately USD $87 million (CAD $118.8 million)
  • Total life-of-mine capital: approximately USD $178 million (CAD $243.1 million)

Capital estimates are preliminary in nature and carry an accuracy range of ±35%, consistent with PEA-level studies.

7.5 Economic Metrics (After-Tax)

Medium Case – USD $1,000/mtu WO₃
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$473.4 million 48.8% 4.2 years
(USD$ 346.6 million)
Base Case – Argus Long-Term Forecast (US$677 to $763/mtu WO₃; ~USD $704/mtu WO₃ Average)
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$182.7 million 27.2% 5.8 years
(USD$ 134.0 million)
High Case – USD $1,500/mtu WO₃
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$963.8 million 78.4% 3.2 years
(USD$ 706.4 million)

 

Notes:
1. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV.
2. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
3. Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.
4. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.

Mine design and cut-off grade selection were developed using a conservative USD $659/mtu WO₃ assumption. Recent reported tungsten market prices have reached approximately USD $1,998/mtu [Source: Fastmarkets; February 27, 2026], demonstrating meaningful leverage to current market conditions.

7.6 Sensitivity Analysis

Sensitivity analysis demonstrates that Project economics are most sensitive to: (i) tungsten price; (ii) capital costs; (iii) operating costs; and (iv) metallurgical recovery.

The Project retains positive economics across a range of tungsten price assumptions. At the Base Case price assumption, the Project generates robust operating margins, with significant leverage to higher tungsten price scenarios.

The Project demonstrates strong leverage to tungsten price. The following sensitivity analysis illustrates the post-tax IRR and NPV (8%) across a flat tungsten price range of USD $500 to USD $1,700 per mtu WO₃.

Figure 1 — After-Tax NPV (8%) and IRR Sensitivity to Tungsten Price

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11632/285820_ede9ceca64ea6a8e_001full.jpg

Notes: IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV.

8. Growth and Expansion Opportunities

Mineralization at the Santa Helena Breccia remains open along strike and at depth, providing potential for future Mineral Resource expansion through additional drilling. The current underground mine design is based on the defined Mineral Resource; however, further infill and step-out drilling may support resource conversion and potential extension of mine life. The process plant has been designed at a nominal throughput of 1.4 Mtpa. Subject to further engineering studies and market conditions, the plant layout may allow for future throughput expansion. Selective mining and continued geological refinement may enhance grade control and support optimization of the life-of-mine grade profile.

9. Strategic Positioning

The Borralha Project represents one of the largest undeveloped tungsten resources within the European Union and is positioned to contribute to European supply chain security for this designated critical raw material. The combination of underground mining, gravity-dominant processing and significant permitting advancement materially reduces technical and development risk relative to many global tungsten development projects.

The favourable Environmental Impact Declaration (DIA) provides regulatory clarity and supports advancement toward the next stage of engineering and feasibility.

10. Project Risks and Uncertainties

This initial PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. There is no certainty that the results of the PEA will be realized.

Key risks and uncertainties include:

  • Inclusion of Inferred Mineral Resources within the mine plan
  • Variability in tungsten price and foreign exchange rates
  • Capital cost escalation and schedule risk
  • Metallurgical recovery variability
  • Underground geotechnical and hydrogeological conditions
  • Regulatory and permitting timelines
  • Availability of equipment and human resources

11. Recommended Work Program

The Company intends to advance Borralha toward the next stage of engineering through:

  • Infill drilling to upgrade Inferred Mineral Resources to higher confidence categories
  • Step-out drilling to expand Mineral Resources and potentially extend mine life.
  • Additional metallurgical optimization and variability testing
  • Detailed geotechnical and hydrogeological investigations
  • Engineering advancement toward a Pre-Feasibility Study
  • Ongoing permitting and RECAPE progression

These activities are intended to further de-risk the Borralha Project and support advancement toward a Feasibility Study.

12. Quality Control

The Company has implemented a comprehensive and well-documented quality assurance and quality control (‘QA/QC‘) program consistent with industry best practices. Drill core and reverse circulation samples were prepared at ISO-accredited ALS Global facilities in Seville, Spain, and analyzed at ALS Global’s certified laboratory in Loughrea, Ireland, using XRF methods for tungsten (W-XRF05 and W-XRF10), with routine internal laboratory QA/QC procedures including pulp duplicates. The Company inserted certified reference materials (‘CRMs‘), blank samples, and field duplicates into the sample stream at regular intervals, including one CRM every 20 routine samples and two blanks per analytical batch.

Five independent CRMs covering multiple grade ranges were used. Samples exceeding ±3 standard deviations from expected CRM values, or blanks exceeding three times detection limits, triggered re-assay of the affected batch. Reverse circulation samples were weighed to monitor recovery and reject materials were securely stored. Independent verification sampling by a Qualified Person confirmed the reliability of the analytical database. The Qualified Persons are satisfied that the QA/QC procedures and resulting analytical data are appropriate for use in the Mineral Resource Estimate and the PEA.

13. Qualified Persons

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by the following Qualified Persons, as defined under NI 43-101:

J. Douglas Blanchflower, P.Geo.

Mr. Blanchflower is an independent Qualified Person under NI 43-101 and was retained by Allied Critical Metals Inc. to prepare the NI 43-101 Technical Report dated effective December 30, 2025. He has overall responsibility for the 2025 MRE and the Technical Report. Mr. Blanchflower is a Registered Professional Geoscientist in good standing with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (No. 19086) and has more than five decades of experience in mineral exploration, resource estimation, and technical reporting. Mr. Blanchflower has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release relating to the mineral resource estimate.

David Castro López, BSc, MIMMM, QMR

Mr. Castro López is a Mining Engineer and a Professional Member (MIMMM #685484) and Qualified for Minerals Reporting (QMR) of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). He is independent of the Company and the Borralha Project. Mr. Castro López contributed to the metallurgical review and process design considerations supporting the PEA and takes responsibility for the metallurgical and mineral processing information contained herein. Mr. López has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release relating to the metallurgical and mineral processing information contained herein.

Miguel Cabal, EurGeol, Licensed Geologist

Mr. Cabal is a licensed geologist with the European Federation of Geologists (EuroGeol #1439) with over 28 years of experience in mineral exploration, resource evaluation and mine development. He is Managing Director of Geomates (Spain) and has contributed to multiple NI 43-101 and JORC-compliant technical reports, including PEA, PFS and feasibility studies. Mr. Cabal is independent of Allied Critical Metals Inc. and the Borralha Project and has reviewed and approved the mining and economic components of the PEA. Mr. Cabal has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release relating to the mining and economic components of this news release.

Vítor Arezes, BSc, MIMMM, QMR

Mr. Arezes is Vice President Exploration of Allied Critical Metals Inc. and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. He is not independent of the Company due to his role as an officer. Mr. Arezes has extensive experience in tungsten and polymetallic mineral systems and has conducted multiple site visits to the Borralha Project, including during the 2025 drilling campaign. He contributed to geological interpretation, exploration oversight, and technical review supporting the PEA. He is a member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (MIMMM #703197) and a Qualified Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves Professional (QMR), and by reason of education, professional experience, and accreditation, meets the definition of a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101. Mr. Arezes has reviewed and approved all of the scientific and technical information in this news release.

Figure 2 — South – North longitudinal section on mine design at Sta. Helena Breccia

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11632/285820_ede9ceca64ea6a8e_002full.jpg

Figure 3 — East – West transversal section on mine design at Sta. Helena Breccia

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11632/285820_ede9ceca64ea6a8e_003full.jpg

About Allied Critical Metals Inc.

Allied Critical Metals Inc. is a Canadian-based mining company focused on the advancement and revitalization of its 100%-owned Borralha Tungsten Project and the Vila Verde Tungsten Project in northern Portugal.

The Borralha Project is one of the largest undeveloped tungsten resources within the European Union and benefits from a favourable Environmental Impact Declaration (DIA), positioning the Project for advancement toward feasibility and development. Vila Verde represents additional exploration upside within the same strategic jurisdiction.

Tungsten has been designated a critical raw material by the United States and the European Union due to its strategic importance in defense, aerospace, manufacturing, automotive, electronics and energy applications. Currently, China, Russia and North Korea account for approximately 87% of global tungsten supply and reserves, highlighting the importance of secure western sources.

Further details regarding the Borralha Project are available in the Company’s NI 43-101 Technical Report dated December 30, 2025, filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at www.alliedcritical.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

‘Roy Bonnell’
CEO and Director

Additional information is also available by contacting the Company:

Dave Burwell
Vice President, Corporate Development
daveb@alliedcritical.com
Tel:403-410-7907
Toll Free: 1-800-221-0915

Please also visit our website at www.alliedcritical.com.

Also visit us at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/allied-critical-metals-inc/
X: https://x.com/@alliedcritical/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alliedcriticalmetals/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliedcriticalmetals/

The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (‘FLI‘). FLI in this release includes, without limitation, statements regarding: (A) the PEA results and economic indicators (e.g., NPV, IRR, payback and related sensitivities); (B) the conceptual mine plan and operating framework (mining approach, processing rates, production profiles, cost ranges and schedules); (C) the technical basis and process assumptions (cut-off approach, flowsheet concept and anticipated concentrate specifications); (D) the status and trajectory of permitting and approvals, infrastructure access and other site requirements; (E) market-related assumptions and the Project’s sensitivity and leverage to commodity pricing; (F) growth, conversion and expansion opportunities, including planned drilling and other technical programs; (G) the anticipated sequence of future studies, potential financing pathways and indicative timelines; and (H) the Project’s strategic positioning relative to regional and policy objectives. Such FLI is identified by, among other things, words such as ‘plans’, ‘expects’, ‘is expected’, ‘aims’, ‘budget’, ‘scheduled’, ‘estimates’, ‘forecasts’, ‘intends’, ‘anticipates’, ‘potential’, ‘target’, ‘opportunity’, ‘may’, ‘could’, ‘would’, ‘might’, ‘will’ and similar terminology, as well as statements regarding outcomes that ‘will’, ‘should’ or ‘would’ occur.

Material assumptions underlying the FLI include, but are not limited to: the accuracy of the 2025 MRE; geological continuity; the PEA-level capital/operating cost estimates (with typical PEA accuracy ranges); metallurgical recoveries and process performance consistent with test results to date; availability of labour, equipment and consumables at quoted/priced levels; access to grid power and water on contemplated terms; the ability to obtain land access, permits and approvals (including RECAPE) in a timely manner; tungsten pricing consistent with Argus long-term forecasts or stated sensitivity cases; foreign exchange and inflation consistent with study inputs; and availability of financing on acceptable terms. The Company believes these assumptions are reasonable as of the date hereof, but no assurance can be given that they will prove correct.

The PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. There is no certainty that the PEA results will be realized. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Any reference to potential production, mine life, NPV, IRR, payback, costs, recoveries, or other economic or technical parameters is preliminary and conceptual.

Key risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the FLI include, but are not limited to: (i) exploration, geological, modelling and grade-continuity risks, including the risk that further work does not confirm Inferred material or resource extensions; (ii) risks that metallurgical performance, WO₃ recoveries, concentrate quality or processing costs differ from test work and assumptions; (iii) capital cost escalation, schedule delays, contractor availability and supply-chain constraints; (iv) operating cost inflation (power, reagents, labour, transportation); (v) commodity price and FX volatility (including sustained periods below the Argus long-term or sensitivity prices assumed); (vi) permitting, environmental, social, community, land access and regulatory risks in Portugal (including RECAPE outcomes and permit conditions); (vii) water, tailings and geotechnical/hydrogeological risks inherent in underground operations; (viii) offtake, marketing and market-access risks for tungsten concentrates; (ix) availability and cost of equity, debt or project finance on acceptable terms; (x) changes in laws, regulations, taxes, royalties, or government policies; and (xi) other risks described under ‘Business Risks’ in the Company’s most recent MD&A and in other continuous disclosure filings available on SEDAR+. Readers are urged to carefully review those risk factors, which are expressly incorporated by reference into this cautionary note.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The Company has included certain non-GAAP financial measures in this press release. These financial measures are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS‘) and should not be considered in isolation. The Company believes that these financial measures, together with financial measures determined in accordance with IFRS, provide investors with an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. The inclusion of these financial measures is meant to provide additional information and should not be used as a substitute for performance measures prepared in accordance with IFRS. These financial measures are not necessarily standard and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers.

Net Present Value (NPV) – is the present value calculation of net profit from operations determined using a particular discount rate. All NPV values stated herein are on an after tax basis.

Internal Rate of Return (IRR) – is a financial metric used to assess an investment’s profitability by calculating the annual rate of return that makes the NPV of all cash flows (both positive and negative) equal to zero.

Payback – is calculated in years as the length of time that it takes to pay off the capital costs from annual net profit expected from operations at the Borralha Project.

Initial capital – is the initial capital cost amount required to be expended to construct the mine and tungsten concentrator process equipment and buildings to begin processing mineralized material into saleable tungsten concentrate at commercial quantities according to the life of mine plan at the Borralha Project. This is an estimate accurate to +/-35%.

Sustaining capital – is a supplementary financial measure which reflects cash basis expenditures which are expected to maintain operations and sustain production levels at the Borralha Project.

Capital costs – include the Initial capital and the sustaining capital.

Operating costs – are the costs required to process mineralized material into saleable tungsten concentrate at the Borralha Project. This includes: underground mining; processing and plant operations; general and administrative costs; and site services and infrastructure support. This can be calculated on the unit basis per mtu WO3 produced.

All-In Sustaining Costs (AISC) – are comprised of sustaining capital expenditures and site level costs to support ongoing operations and closure costs. All-in sustaining costs per mtu WO3 is calculated as AISC divided by the amount of mtu WO3 produced during the period that the costs are incurred. All-in sustaining costs capture the important components of the Company’s production and related costs and are used by the Company and investors to understand projected cost performance at the Borralha Project.

1 NPV(8%) = net present value at a 8% discount rate. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV. USD = United States dollars. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.
2 IRR = internal rate of return. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
3 mtu/WO3 = metric tonne unit of tungsten; WO3 is tungsten trioxide.
4 Initial capital is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding initial capital.
5 Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.
6 All-in sustaining cost (AISC); AISC is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding AISC.
7 Operating costs are a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding operating costs.
8 All-in sustaining costs (AISC) is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding AISC.
9 Capital costs are a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding capital costs.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/285820

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Bold Ventures Inc. (TSXV: BOL,OTC:BVLDF) (the ‘Company’ or ‘Bold’) is pleased to provide an update on diamond drilling progress at its Burchell Base and Precious Metals Project, located 100 km west of Thunder Bay, Ontario. 4 holes totaling 669 meters have now been completed in the vicinity of the 111 Zone, where channel sampling results from last Fall were reported last December (see Bold news release dated December 2nd, 2025), and where one grab sample from December 2024 returned 68 gt Au (see Bold news release dated January 9th, 2025). 663 samples of drill core have now been submitted to the laboratory and results are pending. While awaiting results from this first phase of drilling, the drill has been moved to Bold’s Wilcorp property located approximately 13 km east of Atikokan, Ontario, and drilling has commenced there.

Bold’s CEO David Graham, President and COO Bruce MacLachlan, and VP Exploration Coleman Robertson will be meeting with investors at booth #2610 at the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) Mineral Exploration and Mining Convention in Toronto from March 1st to 4th, 2026. Coleman Robertson will be presenting at the PDAC Spotlight with a talk titled ‘From Burchell to the Ring of Fire,’ at 11:10 a.m. on Monday March 2nd in the Northern Lights Learning Hub, Level 300, Hall A of the North Building of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre. During PDAC Bruce MacLachlan will also be interviewed by the Northern Miner on March 1st, and by CEO.CA on Monday March 2nd.

In continuing to build Bold’s name recognition and corporate message via video and digital media platforms, the Company will pay fees of $4,520 to the Northern Miner Group and $4,350 to CEO.CA for the interviews which will conclude at the end of the conference and will remain available for viewing at Bold’s website, www.boldventuresinc.com. The Northern Miner draws on 110 years of experience as the leading mining industry journal in Canada to cover the top developments and newsmakers around the globe. CEO.CA is a community for investors & traders in junior resource & venture stocks and is one of the most popular free financial websites and apps in Canada and for small-cap investors globally — with industry leading audience engagement and mobile functionality.

The Company has registered for the Resourcing Tomorrow 2026 convention to be held from Dec. 1-3 2026 at the Business Design Centre in London, UK. To optimize that event and to build Bold’s name recognition and brand in the United Kingdom, Bold has signed a 12-month contract with The Armchair Trader (Armchair Trader Limited) based in the United Kingdom. The contract begins immediately and provides promotional services to Bold Ventures for a fee of $10,000.

The Northern Miner Group, CEO.CA and Armchair Trader Limited are all arm’s length to the Company and do not have any interest, directly or indirectly, in the Company or its securities, or any right or intent to acquire such an interest.

Ring of Fire News

In other news, the Marten Falls Community Access Road project has moved to the public review stage. The road, which will provide year-round access to the community, is proposed to connect to a forestry road north of Aroland First Nation. The road is part of a broader plan to connect the Ring of Fire to Ontario’s highway network, which also includes the Northern Road Link and Webequie Supply Road projects. See links below:

Marten Falls road project moves to public review stage – Northern Ontario Business

Ontario First Nations complete fast-tracked assessments for Ring of Fire road | Globalnews.ca

The proposed Eagle’s Nest mine in the Ring of Fire has also cleared another regulatory hurdle. The Federal government has decided not to designate the mine for impact assessment. See link below:
https://globalnews.ca/news/11688531/ring-of-fire-northern-ontario/

About Bold’s Koper Lake Project in the Ring of Fire

The Koper Lake Project is a joint venture between Bold Ventures Inc. and Canada Chrome Corporation Inc. (CCC – formerly KWG Resources Inc.) where CCC is the Operator of the exploration effort.

Bold holds a 10% carried interest (through to production) in the Black Horse Chromite deposit on the Koper Lake Project which hosts an NI 43-101 Inferred Resource of 85.9 Mt grading 34.5% Cr2O3 at a cut-off of 20% Cr2O3 (KWG Resources Inc., NI 43-101 Technical Report, Aubut 2015). Bold also holds a 40% working interest in all other metals found within the Koper Lake claims and has a Right of First Refusal on a 1% NSR covering all metals found within the claim group.

The Black Horse is contiguous with the Blackbird Chromite deposits owned by Ring of Fire Metals (formerly Noront Resources Inc.). The Koper Lake claims are located approximately 300 m from the Eagle’s Nest Ni-Cu Massive Sulphide Deposit that is in the permit acquisition stage.

Chromite, nickel and copper are critical minerals that will play an important role in the electrification plans of Ontario and North America. The Company is encouraged by these ongoing developments in this emerging critical mineral mining camp.

The technical information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Coleman Robertson, B.Sc., P. Geo., the Company’s V.P. Exploration and a qualified person (QP) for the purposes of NI 43-101

Bold Ventures management believes our suite of Battery, Critical and Precious Metals exploration projects are an ideal combination of exploration potential meeting future demand. Our target commodities are comprised of: Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb), Zinc (Zn), Gold (Au), Silver (Ag), Platinum (Pt), Palladium (Pd) and Chromium (Cr). The Critical Metals list and a description of the Provincial and Federal electrification plans are posted on the Bold website here.

About Bold Ventures Inc.

The Company explores for Precious, Battery and Critical Metals in Canada. Bold is exploring properties located in active gold and battery metals camps in the Thunder Bay and Wawa regions of Ontario. Bold also holds significant assets located within and around the emerging multi-metals district dubbed the Ring of Fire region, located in the James Bay Lowlands of Northern Ontario.

For additional information about Bold Ventures and our projects, please visit boldventuresinc.com or contact us at 416-864-1456 or email us at info@boldventuresinc.com.

‘Bruce A MacLachlan’ ‘David B Graham’
Bruce MacLachlan David Graham
President and COO CEO

Direct line: (705) 266-0847 

Email: bruce@boldventuresinc.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This Press Release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. When used in this document, the words ‘may’, ‘would’, ‘could’, ‘will’, ‘intend’, ‘plan’, ‘anticipate’, ‘believe’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’ and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect our current views with respect to future events and are subject to such risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause our actual results to differ materially from the statements made, including those factors discussed in filings made by us with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties, such actual results of current exploration programs, the general risks associated with the mining industry, the price of gold and other metals, currency and interest rate fluctuations, increased competition and general economic and market factors, occur or should assumptions underlying the forward looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, or expected. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such forward-looking statements.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/285792

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / February 27, 2026 / 55 North Mining Inc. (CSE:FFF,OTC:FFFNF)(FSE:6YF) (‘55 North‘ or the ‘Company‘) is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced non-brokered flow-through private placement (the ‘Private Placement’).

Pursuant to the Private Placement, the Company issued 1,702,800 flow-through common shares (‘FT Shares’) at a price of $0.745 per FT Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $1,268,586.02.

The FT Shares entitle the holder to receive the tax benefits applicable to flow-through shares in accordance with the provisions of the Income Tax Act (Canada). No warrants were issued in connection with the Private Placement. All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement are subject to a four-month hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws.

The gross proceeds raised from the Private Placement will be used to incur eligible Canadian exploration expenses that qualify as ‘flow-through mining expenditures’ for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada), related to the exploration of the Company’s Last Hope Gold Project.

The Company further confirms that exploration drilling activities are underway, with one drill rig currently operating on the Last Hope Gold Project. A more detailed operational update will be provided in a subsequent news release.

About 55 North Mining Inc.

55 North Mining Inc. is a Canadian exploration and development company advancing its high-grade Last Hope Gold Project located in Manitoba, Canada.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Mr. Bruce Reid
Chief Executive Officer
55 North Mining Inc.
Phone: 647-500-4495
bruce@mine2capital.ca

Mr. Vance Loeber
Corporate Development
Phone: 778-999-3530
cvl@tydewell.com

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release of 55 North contains statements that constitute ‘forward-looking statements.’ Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the Company’s actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: 55 North Mining Inc

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

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Here’s a quick recap of the crypto landscape for Friday (February 25) as of 1:30 p.m. UTC.

Get the latest insights on Bitcoin, Ether and altcoins, along with a round-up of key cryptocurrency market news.

Bitcoin (BTC) was priced at US$65,260.11, down by 3,6 percent over the last 24 hours.

Bitcoin price performance, February 27, 2026.

Chart via TradingView.

A US$8.9 billion crypto options expiry drove “extreme fear” in the market today, with price manipulation and re-hedging resulting in volatility. Bitcoin fell below the US$66,000 support level after a corrective rebound earlier in the week lost momentum, reflecting the fragility of the balance between risk appetite and available liquidity in global markets.

According to XS.com senior market analyst, Rania Gule, Bitcoin’s swift pullback suggests the recent uptick was merely a technical bounce within a more complex macro environment, rather than the beginning of a sustainable bullish wave.

“In the near term, I expect Bitcoin to remain within a broad range between US$64,000 and US$70,000, with a slight bearish bias if geopolitical pressures persist and equity market momentum weakens,’ she said.

Ether (ETH) was priced at US$1,917.34, down by 5.5 percent over the last 24 hours.

Altcoin price update

  • XRP (XRP) was priced at US$1.35, down by 3.7 percent over 24 hours.
  • Solana (SOL) was trading at US$81.42, down by 5.5 percent over 24 hours.

Today’s crypto news to know

Vitalik Buterin sells US$43 million in ETH

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin sold approximately 17,000 ETH worth approximately US$43 million at the time of sale, to fund privacy and security initiatives.

Marathon partners with Starwood on AI data center

Shares of Bitcoin miner Marathon Digital Holdings (NASDAQ:MARA) surged after the company announced a partnership with Starwood Capital Group, a leading global private investment firm focused on real estate, to build data centers for the artificial intelligence (AI) sector).

In a Wednesday (February 25) blog post, Zach Pandl, Grayscale’s head of research, called the relationship between AI and blockchain “complementary from a fundamental standpoint.”

Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

Here’s a quick recap of the crypto landscape for Wednesday (February 25) as of 9:00 p.m. UTC.

Get the latest insights on Bitcoin, Ether and altcoins, along with a round-up of key cryptocurrency market news.

Bitcoin (BTC) was priced at US$69,190.26, up by 7.4 percent over the last 24 hours.

Bitcoin price performance, February 25, 2026.

Chart via TradingView.

After a “cautiously bearish” start to the week marked by institutional exchange-traded fund outflows, the Bitcoin price suddenly flipped into the green, surging toward the US$70,000 territory.

Analysts noted a double-bottom technical formation, which often signals the end of a short-term downtrend.

Amberdata’s recent market snapshot highlights a bullish divergence where stablecoin supply expanded by over US$773 million, creating a dry powder reserve that sidelined cash. Combined with an aggressive short position in the perpetuals market, the firm believes the stage is set for a classic short squeeze.

Meanwhile, Glassnode analysts noted that a leverage reset has already been completed, with the market shifting into an “accumulation backdrop.” This structural thinning of sell-side pressure essentially created a liquidity vacuum, allowing Wednesday’s move to happen with explosive speed once buyers returned.

Crucially, open interest has climbed 1.57 percent in the last four hours and funding rates remain negative at -0.01 percent, indicating that the market isn’t overheated with leveraged buyers yet and that Bitcoin may have more room to run before hitting the resistance at the US$70,000 to US$82,000 zone.

Ether (ETH) was priced at US$2,074.84, up by 11.7 percent over the last 24 hours.

Altcoin price update

  • XRP (XRP) was priced at US$1.47, up by 8 percent over 24 hours.
  • Solana (SOL) was trading at US$89.75, up by 14.1 percent over 24 hours.

Today’s crypto news to know

Meta may integrate stablecoin payments this year

Anonymous sources for CoinDesk claim that Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) is planning to integrate a third-party firm that will enable stablecoin payments across all three of its platforms — WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram — early in the second half of the year, as well as implement a new wallet.

Meta reportedly sent out a request for product to third-party firms. One source mentioned partner Stripe, which acquired stablecoin specialist Bridge in 2025, as a candidate for piloting a potential Meta stablecoin.

A subsequent X post from senior communications executive Andy Stone states that Meta is not planning to launch its own stablecoin; however, the company is exploring opportunities to “(enable) people and businesses to make payments on (Meta’s) platforms using their preferred method.’

Coinbase partners with Yahoo Finance

Coinbase Global (NASDAQ:COIN) announced the launch of stock trading for all of its US-based users by partnering with Yahoo Finance. This puts the exchange directly in competition with broker Robinhood Markets (NASDAQ:HOOD), widely considered the leading app-based platform for retail traders. The company is beginning with a selection of the market’s most popular stocks, and intends to roll out 24/5 trading for additional companies in the coming months.

By spring 2026, Coinbase will introduce stock perpetuals for international users.

“Looking further ahead, our goal is to offer fully tokenized stocks, creating a seamless, 24/7 global market where your equities can even serve as on-chain collateral,” Coinbase said in its announcement.

“Our Everything Exchange vision is about removing artificial boundaries between asset classes and building for the next generation of markets. This expansion is a foundational step toward unifying traditional investments and digital assets into a single platform, simplifying portfolio management and unlocking what comes next.”

Hut 8, Circle report latest earnings

Hut 8 (TSX:HUT,NASDAQ:HUT) and Circle Internet Group (NYSE:CRCL) have both released Q4 2025 earnings.

Circle shares rose over 35 percent on the day after revenue exceeded expectations, growing 77 percent year-on-year to US$770.2 million. Earnings per share also far exceeded estimates of US$0.16, coming in at US$0.43.

Circulation of the company’s stablecoin, USDC, reached US$75.3 billion, up 72 percent, with on-chain transaction volume hitting US$11.9 trillion for the quarter.

Meanwhile, shares of Hut 8 closed down 6.57 percent after the firm reported a net loss of US$301.8 million for the quarter, largely as a result of losses on its Bitcoin holdings of US$220 million. Revenue grew 45 percent year-on-year, driven by its ASIC mining and artificial intellgience cloud segment.

Mastercard expands crypto push with new stablecoin, DeFi leadership role

Mastercard (NYSE:MA) is stepping up its digital asset strategy with a new senior hire aimed squarely at stablecoins and DeFi. The payments giant is recruiting a director of crypto flows to oversee stablecoin-linked card products, DeFi integrations and updates to its internal risk and network frameworks.

The move builds on partnerships forged in 2025 with Circle, Paxos and OKX that enabled spending from crypto wallets and merchant settlement in stablecoins.

The new role will focus in part on allowing users to spend blockchain-based dollars at more than 150 million Mastercard-accepting locations worldwide, while preserving familiar card features such as rewards and cashback.

It will also explore connecting Mastercard’s rails to decentralized applications, enabling programmable payments and automated settlement flows.

Canaan buys deeper into Texas mining

Canaan (NASDAQ:CAN) has acquired a 49 percent stake in a joint venture tied to several Texas Bitcoin-mining projects from Cipher Mining (NASDAQ:CIFR) in a US$39.75 million all-stock deal.

The transaction gives Canaan exposure to operations totaling 120 megawatts of energized capacity and roughly 4.4 exahashes per second of hashrate. The sites operate at an average efficiency of about 25.7 joules per terahash, placing them within competitive industry benchmarks.

As part of the agreement, Canaan also acquired 6,840 Avalon A15Pro rigs previously deployed at Cipher’s Black Pearl facility. That site is being converted into an artificial intelligence and high-performance computing data center.

Cipher shares rose more than 6 percent following the announcement, while Canaan gained nearly 8 percent, suggesting investors welcomed the consolidation.

Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

Panther Metals Plc (LSE: PALM), the exploration company focused on mineral projects in Canada, is pleased to provide an update for the Obonga Project’s Wishbone Prospect which is an emerging and highly prospective base metal volcanogenic massive sulphide (‘VMS’) system in Ontario, Canada.

Following the completion of the 2025 high resolution drone based airborne magnetic geophysics survey (‘Magnetics Survey’) over the Wishbone Prospect, the geophysical data has subject to three-dimensional inversion modelling (Figures 1 & 2) with a view to refining the parameters of the permitted drill holes ahead of a diamond drilling programme.

A video illustrating the results of the Magnetic Survey inversion modelling and the size and morphology of the Wishbone VMS Target and the relationship with highly anomalous copper in lake sediments is available to view on the Panther Metals PLC YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/shorts/POMgfQuSc44?feature=share1

Figures of the magnetics inversion and structural model are set out below in Figures 1 and 2, whilst the map the processed First Vertical Derivative of the Magnetic Survey data is shown in Figure 3. Figure 4 shows the highly anomalous copper in lake and stream sediments which are located above, and which drain off the site of the Wishbone VMS Prospect. Details of the Magnetic Survey are provided in Table 1.

The work being planned is covered by Exploration Permit PR-24-000022, which is valid through to 20 June 2027 (Figure 5). This permit authorises a comprehensive exploration programme, including up to 39 diamond core drill holes and down-hole electromagnetic geophysics.

Darren Hazelwood, Chief Executive Officer commented:

‘As move towards and period of intense work activity at the exciting Wishbone VMS Prospect, we would like to provide an update on our geological and magnetic inversion modelling activities which illustrate the scale of the Wishbone system that we will be drill targeting in the coming quarter.

Panther Chairman Nick O’Reilly and I will be at the PDAC Conference in Toronto next week where we will be meeting with various Wishbone stakeholders, and we look forward to providing further updates as our plans advance.’

Figure 1: Plan view of modelled Wishbone VMS Target showing magnetic inversion model, geological contacts and location of Panther diamond drillholes (based on magnetic inversion model shells).

Notes: Scale bar and north arrow in bottom left corner of figure. Coordinates stated in UTM Zone 16N NAD 83 datum. Image highlights the size of the modelled magnetic body at depth. Dark blue dots signify permitted drill pad locations. The figure is overlain by a semi-transparent surface rendering of the topographical map, from which the trace of the Wishbone Lake can be discerned (light blue). The green block model below the topography reflects the greenstone volcanic geology, the beige block model to the north is granitoid. The granitoid/volcanic contacts are interpreted to be faulted. A series of three concave fault/contacts are currently interpreted to dissect the magnetic inversion model. The down-hole traces of Panther’s 2021 and 2022 drilling are shown in plan view. The working model is dynamic and will be updated as the 2026 work programme develops.

Looking south (180° / 45°)

Looking north (000° / 45°)

Looking north-westerly (340° / 45°)

Looking north-easterly (060° / 45°)

Figure 2: Series of oblique three-dimensional views of modelled of modelled Wishbone VMS Target showing location of Panther diamond drillholes (based on magnetic inversion model shells).

Notes: Image highlights the size of the modelled magnetic body at depth. Blue dots signify permitted drill pads. For relative scale and description of other features please see the notes below Figure 1.

Figure 3: First Vertical Derivative Magnetic Survey Map data from the 2025 Wishbone Survey.

Notes: The first vertical derivative map enhances shallow, near-surface geological features by calculating the rate of change of the magnetic field in the vertical direction. This acts as a high-pass filter to sharpen anomaly edges, reduce regional background noise and better resolve closely spaced magnetic bodies.

Wishbone VMS Target Background

The Wishbone Drone Magnetic Survey work followed on from the 2022 drill programme to target multiple high priority electromagnetic (‘EM’) and magnetic geophysical anomalies prospective for volcanogenic massive sulphide (‘VMS’) hosted copper / base metal mineralisation. Panther’s two hole 600m drilling programme in autumn 2021 had confirmed Wishbone as a VMS base metals target and the 2022 drilling sought to follow-up on the massive sulphide and zinc / copper intersections as well as to test further coincident magnetic and electromagnetic conductor geophysical anomalies identified by regional airborne surveys.

Historical drilling in the 1970s intersected massive stringer and disseminated sulphide 800m north of the Wishbone anomaly and drilling by BHP in the 1990s intersected massive stringer and disseminated sulphide 600m south of the anomaly.

BHP ranked the Wishbone anomaly a high priority for follow up in 1992, however no further work was completed prior to 2021. Airborne geophysics datasets compiled since that time have shown that the historical drilling failed to intersect the major anomalies.

Wishbone is situated in a similar geological environment to the nearby Sturgeon Lake VMS mining camp, on the Wabigoon Greenstone Belt, approximately 75km due west. The Sturgeon Lake VMS Camp is host to five historic zinc-copper-lead-silver producing mines, with a combined total production of: 19.8Mt @ 8.50% Zn, 1.06% Cu, 0.91% Pb & 119.7g/t Ag.

In 2021 Panther’s two hole, 600m diamond drilling programme, intercepted multiple lenses of sulphide mineralisation including in drill hole BBR21_WB_001 a 27.3m wide intercept of massive sulphide mineralisation and in hole BBR21_WB_002 51m of sulphide-dominated mineralisation.

Wide massive sulphide and semi-massive sulphide mineralisation intersections were made in both drill holes:

  • WB001: Three wide sulphide intersections:
    • 27.3m of massive sulphide from 106.2m (‘Upper layer’), with fault at base;
    • 2.5m of massive sulphide from 234.8m (‘Mid layer’; and
    • 1.4m of massive sulphide from 256.6m (‘Lower layer’)
  • WB002: Wide zoned sulphide intersection:
    • 51m from 174m comprising a wide zone of sulphide dominated mineralisation, including:
    • 17m from 180m of massive sulphide (‘Upper zone’) and
    • 7m from 218m of semi-massive sulphide (‘Lower zone’)

In Panther’s 2022 drill programme, a further three diamond drill holes intersected further massive and semi-massive sulphides, and a zone of zinc mineralisation:

  • Hole BBR22 WB-P1-2: Potentially commercial grades of zinc mineralisation:
    • 3.6m @ 3.9% Zn from 120m, including
      • 2m @ 6.8% Zn, 4.3 g/t Ag and anomalous 0.19% Cu from 120m, with
      • 0.5m @ 11.65% Zn, 4.1 g/t Ag and anomalous 0.14% Cu from 120.2m.
  • Hole BBR22 WB-P2-1: Further wide zones of massive and semi-massive sulphide mineralisation intersected, interpreted to be related to the high temperature pyrrhotite dominant core of the VMS system:
    • 22.4m of massive and semi-massive sulphide from 127m downhole.
  • Hole BBR22 WB-P3-1 :
    • 3.8m of semi-massive sulphide from 163.2m downhole.

The Wishbone discovery was the first significant VMS-style mineralisation to be made on the entire Obonga Greenstone Belt. Given the geological tendency for VMS systems to cluster and repeat and given the presence of highly anomalous copper in lake and stream sediments nearby (see Figure 4).

An important characteristic of VMS deposits is that they typically display a zonation of metals within the massive sulphide body from Fe+Cu at the base to Zn+Fe±Pb±Ba at the top and margins, related to differing temperature and chemical conditions at mineral deposition. The major observed mineral component of the Wishbone massive sulphide mineralisation is pyrrhotite with less common pyrite and minor sphalerite and chalcopyrite in distinct zones.

The Wishbone assay result suite, including rare earth element (‘REE’) analyses, has yielded important geochemical information allowing the classification of the mineralisation, alteration ratios and the development of exploration vectors towards zones of potential economic interest. Wishbone has been classified as a bimodal type deposit, the same type as Canada’s Kidd Creek (Ontario) and Noranda (Quebec) VMS deposits.

Figure 4: Lake Sediment Sample Assays Show Very Strong Copper Anomalism Downstream of the Wishbone VMS system

Table 1: Wishbone VMS Prospect UAV Magnetic Survey Details

UAV Magnetics Survey Rational

Survey Equipment

Survey Size

(25m line & 250m tie line spacing)

(line- kilometre)

Flight Line Azimuth (degrees)

Survey Data Products

Targeting VMS style base metal mineralisation at depth.

3D Inversion modelling will facilitate drill hole orientation planning to target the expected high base metal grade parts of the targeted VMS systems.

Unmanned Airborne magnetometer survey system incorporating:

Base station magnetometer GSM-19W Overhauser

Airborne magnetometer Gem Systems GSMP-35U potassium vapor magnetometer & ancillary electronics.

25m line & 250m tie line spacing

Total line kilometres:

190.11 km

090°

· Final Total Magnetic Intensity

· First Vertical derivative

· Second Vertical Derivative

· Horizontal Derivative

· Analytic Signal

· 3D Inversion Models

Figure 5: Wishbone Exploration Permit PR-24-000022 Permitted, Claim Cells, Drill Pads, Camp and Access

Note: Map from Permit issued on 21 June 2024

References

1. Panther Metals PLC, YouTube channel video: Wishbone VMS Target

( https://youtube.com/shorts/POMgfQuSc44?feature=share )

For further information, please contact:

Panther Metals PLC:

Darren Hazelwood, Chief Executive Officer:

+44 (0)1462 429 743
+44 (0)7971 957 685

Brokers:

Optiva Securities Limited

Christian Dennis

Mick McNamara

+44 (0)20 3137 1902

Hybridan LLP

Claire Louise Noyce

+44 (0)20 3764 2341

SI Capital Limited

Nick Emerson

+44 (0)1438 416 500

Obonga Project – Advancing a High-Impact VMS and Critical Minerals District

Panther Metals’ Obonga Project in Ontario continues to demonstrate strong potential as a district-scale exploration opportunity targeting base and critical minerals. Since acquiring the Obonga Greenstone Belt in July 2021, the Company has advanced multiple high-priority targets including Wishbone, Awkward, Survey, Ottertooth, and Silver Rim.

On 9 February 2026 Panther announced plans for an approximately 2,000-metre diamond drilling program at the Wishbone Prospect, following the grant of an Exploration Permit in June 2024 valid through 2027. Previous work confirmed compelling VMS-style mineralisation, including 27.3m of massive sulphide and 51m of sulphide-dominated mineralisation across multiple lenses, supported by high-grade copper anomalies in lake sediments.

In July 2024, Panther secured an Exploration Permit for Awkward West, enabling up to 31 drill holes. Historic drilling returned 27.2m at 2.25% TGC, with zones exceeding 5% TGC, alongside indications of nickel, copper, and platinum group elements, aligning with the Company’s critical minerals strategy.

High-resolution magnetic and electromagnetic surveys continue to refine drill targeting across Obonga. Survey and Ottertooth remain highly prospective, hosting multiple untested geophysical anomalies and historic massive sulphide intercepts.

Winston Project – Tailings Evaluation and MRE Pathway

Panther Metals’ Winston Project represents a near-term, development-focused opportunity centred on the evaluation of historic mine tailings and has been the subject of prior technical and commercial assessment involving Extrakt.

Current work is focused on tailings sampling, metallurgical testing, and data validation to define metal content, recoverability, and support the preparation of a Mineral Resource estimate (MRE). This approach provides a clear value-creation pathway with lower geological risk than greenfield exploration and aligns with modern reprocessing and critical mineral’s themes.

Dotted Lake Project – Hemlo-Adjacent Polymetallic Opportunity

Panther Metals’ Dotted Lake Project, acquired in July 2020, is located approximately 16km from the Hemlo Mining Corp.’s Hemlo Mine, within a well-established mining region.

Early exploration identified multiple gold and base metal anomalies, with initial drilling confirming gold mineralisation. In early 2025, follow-up drilling materially advanced the project, confirming nickel and magnesium mineralisation within an ultramafic intrusion and identifying a VMS-style system, significantly expanding the project’s polymetallic potential.

The programme refined structural controls, extended mineralisation, and identified multiple new drill targets, positioning Dotted Lake as a high-upside, multi-commodity exploration asset.

Commercial Strategy – Focused Value Creation

Panther Metals is focused on disciplined, discovery-driven value creation through efficient capital deployment and technical execution. With Obonga delivering high-impact exploration, Winston providing a resource-focused development pathway, and Dotted Lake offering polymetallic upside, the Company maintains a balanced portfolio aligned with favourable commodity market conditions.

The Company’s strategy is to advance high-quality assets along the most efficient technical pathway, delivering tangible milestones that underpin long-term shareholder value.

Source

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Lahontan Gold (TSXV: LG,OTCQB:LGCXF) is drawing investor attention as it advances toward renewed production at its historic Santa Fe Mine in Nevada. A revised mineral resource estimate is expected soon, offering a potential catalyst, according to a recent report by News Financial.

Highlights:

  • Resource update expected imminently
  • Santa Fe Mine advancing toward production
  • Strong drill results at West Santa Fe project

The Santa Fe Mine, which produced gold and silver from 1988–1994, comes with existing infrastructure and proven mineralization.

“Lahontan will incorporate these new drill holes into an updated MRE for Slab and the entire Santa Fe project. With a new MRE, combined with updated metallurgy and rising metal prices, the company will also complete an updated preliminary economic assessment,” stated CEO Kimberly Ann in the report. The update could significantly reshape market perception of the company’s asset base.

Recent drilling at the nearby West Santa Fe project delivered 36.6 m grading 3.11 g/t Au Eq, including a high-grade interval of 10.7 m at 5.75 g/t Au Eq from surface, highlighting the exploration upside of Lahontan’s satellite assets. These results may contribute to future resource growth and bolster the company’s transition from explorer to producer.

With drilling underway and key technical milestones approaching, Lahontan is positioning itself to move from exploration to development and production. Investors are watching closely, as the upcoming resource update and advancing mine infrastructure may mark the start of a new chapter for the historic Santa Fe operation.

Read the full study here.

Click here to connect with Lahontan Gold for an Investor Presentation

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Escalating tensions between the United States and Iran are reviving a risk energy markets have long feared: a potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow Gulf passage that carries roughly 20 percent of global LNG trade and 25 percent of seaborne oil.

New modelling from energy analytics firm ICIS suggests that a three-month disruption would send European benchmark gas prices sharply higher and strain storage levels heading into winter.

US-Iran nuclear talks are continuing this week after previous meetings failed to produce a breakthrough.

Meanwhile, the US has increased its military posture in the Gulf region, redeploying a carrier strike group to the Northern Arabian Sea. Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces have conducted drills in the Strait of Hormuz and tested a temporary blockage of the sea passage, with officials publicly raising the possibility of closing the route to international traffic.

Oil markets have already begun reacting to the rising geopolitical risk.

Prices climbed to seven-month highs as traders positioned ahead of renewed US-Iran nuclear talks. US crude futures rose to as high as US$67.28 per barrel to start this week, while Brent crude reached US$72.50, its highest level since July 31, 2025, before easing later in the session.

Disruption scenario points to sharp market shock

The ICIS postures that the strategic importance of the strait is difficult to overstate. A prolonged closure would disrupt a quarter of global seaborne oil flows and a fifth of LNG trade. For Europe, the most immediate impact would be the loss of Qatari LNG volumes that transit the Gulf.

To assess the potential impact, ICIS modelled two scenarios: a base case reflecting current market conditions, and a disruption case assuming no contracted Qatari LNG imports to Europe until the end of May—a 102-day halt combined with a 131 terawatt-hour (TWh)reduction in spot LNG volumes over 90 days.

Under the disruption scenario, the Dutch TTF front-month contract, which is Europe’s gas benchmark, would jump toward 92 euros per megawatt hour, averaging around 86 €/MWh during the 90-day blockade.

This price point hovers substantially above the base case and far exceeds the price response in ICIS’ cold-winter scenario, which resulted in roughly a 20 percent increase in some Eastern European markets.

Furthermore, a three-month interruption of Qatari LNG would represent a supply shock of roughly 14 percent during the period, even before accounting for missing spot cargoes.

According to ICIS, that scale of disruption would likely drive the European gas balance into shortage territory.

“We see Europe has simultaneously allowed strategic buffers like gas storage levels to erode to dangerously low levels at a critical moment in global affairs,” said ICIS editor Ghassan Zumot.

Even with elevated prices, not all demand in Central and Eastern Europe could be easily met while still complying with mandated EU storage targets. In the disruption scenario, end-of-winter storage levels fall to about 244 TWh, compared with 275 TWh in the base case .

Under such conditions, the ICIS noted that competition between Asia and Europe for flexible LNG cargoes would also intensify.

Its modeling suggests that the marginal price during the blockade would be determined by the relative willingness-to-pay of Asian power systems during the summer cooling season versus Europe’s need to secure LNG for storage injections ahead of winter.

Volatile market meets gulf risk

The prospect of disruption in the Gulf adds fresh uncertainty to energy markets that have yet to stabilize.

“Throughout the year, prices have continued the downtrend they began in April (2024) as OPEC+ continued to hike output and China’s economy continued to struggle under the weight of a flailing property sector, downbeat consumer confidence, overindebted local governments and flagging external demand,” he added.

US President Donald Trump’s on-again, off-again tariffs also injected uncertainty into markets. “We can see that Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs pushed prices down to a level from which they’ve not recovered from, barring a spike in June as a result of the 12 day Iran-Israel war,” Cunningham said.

Despite current perceptions of abundant oil supply with floating inventories hovering around a billion barrels, analysts caution that geopolitical disruptions could quickly alter the balance.

“The real question is not if oil and gas production will increase, but by how much,” Cunningham said, noting that production forecasts have been revised higher in response to OPEC+ output hikes and strong US LNG demand. At the same time, tensions within OPEC+ and sanctions on Russia could complicate supply trajectories.

For Europe, the immediate vulnerability lies in gas. The continent has made significant strides since 2022 in diversifying supply routes and expanding LNG import infrastructure.

However, a closure of the Strait of Hormuz would instantly test those gains.

Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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Combined company is well-capitalized with an exceptional management team and portfolio of gold assets in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region

Sirios Resources Inc. (TSXV: SOI,OTC:SIREF) (OTCQB: SIREF) (‘Sirios’) and OVI Mining Corp. (‘OVI’) are pleased to announce the completion of their previously announced business combination by way of a court approved plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the ‘Transaction’). Under the Transaction, Sirios acquired all of the common shares of OVI (each, an ‘OVI Share’) outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Transaction, which resulted in OVI becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of Sirios.

Following completion of the Transaction, each former holder of OVI Shares is entitled to receive 2.34 common shares of Sirios (each, a ‘Sirios Share‘) in exchange for each common share of OVI held immediately prior to the effective time of the Transaction.

Concurrent with the completion of the Transaction, Jean-Félix Lepage has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Sirios, replacing Sirios founder, Dominique Doucet, who will transition to Executive Chairman and Head of Exploration. In addition, Sean Roosen and Laurence Farmer have joined the board of directors of Sirios (the ‘Board‘), adding deep Québec mining and capital markets expertise to the Sirios team.

Mr. Lepage has over 15 years of experience in mining and managing operations, projects, and development activities. Prior to becoming CEO of OVI, he was Vice-President of Projects at O3 Mining Inc., where he led the Marban Project though the study and development process. His past experience also includes several different operational roles at Newmont Corporation, including managing the underground operations at the Eleonore Mine. Mr. Lepage obtained his Bachelor of Mining Engineering from Université Laval and holds a college technical degree in mineral processing from CEGEP de Thetford.

Jean-Félix Lepage, incoming CEO of Sirios, stated: ‘I am honoured to lead Sirios Resources as we enter this exciting new chapter. The combination of Sirios and OVI creates a stronger, well-capitalized company with an exceptional portfolio of gold assets in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region. I look forward to working with our talented team and newly strengthened board to advance our exploration and development programs and deliver value for our shareholders.’

Dominique Doucet, former CEO of Sirios, stated: ‘After founding and leading Sirios for many years, I am proud to see the company take this significant step forward. This transaction brings together two complementary teams and asset portfolios, strengthening our position in the James Bay gold camp. In my new role as Executive Chairman and Head of Exploration, I remain deeply committed to Sirios and look forward to focusing my efforts on advancing our exploration programs and supporting Jean-Félix and the team in building on the foundation we have established.’

Board of Directors

The Board is led by Executive Chairman Dominique Doucet, and now includes Sean Roosen and Laurence Farmer, as well as Robert Ménard, Colinda Parent and Guy Le Bel. Luc Cloutier has resigned from the Board. Sirios would like to express its sincere gratitude for his years of service.

Dominique Doucet, former CEO of Sirios, stated: ‘On behalf of the Board, I would like to recognize and express my profound gratitude for Luc’s unwavering commitment and dedication to Sirios since its founding in 1994. Luc’s contributions have left an lasting mark on Sirios, and his legacy will continue to shape our path forward. On behalf of the entire Sirios team, we extend our heartfelt appreciation and wish him every success in his future endeavours.’

Mr. Roosen is the founder and Executive Chairman of Osisko Development Corp., and former CEO of OR Royalties Inc. As founder, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of Osisko Mining Corporation, Mr. Roosen was responsible for developing the strategic plan for the discovery, financing, and development of the Canadian Malartic mine. Recognized as one of the ‘Top 20 Most Influential Individuals in Global Mining,’ in 2017, he brings unmatched industry vision and strategic leadership.

Mr. Farmer is the General Counsel and VP Strategic Development of Osisko Development Corp. and the Chief Executive Officer of Electric Elements Mining Corp., prior to which he was Senior Counsel of OR Royalties Inc. Prior to joining the Osisko Group, Mr. Farmer worked in investment banking at RBC Capital Markets in London and, before that, practiced as a corporate lawyer with Norton Rose Fulbright LLP in London, England and Montréal, Canada, and brings strong transactional expertise and strategic insight into global resource development.

Information for Former OVI Shareholders

To receive the Sirios Shares to which they are entitled under the Transaction, former registered shareholders of OVI must complete, sign, date and return the letter of transmittal mailed to each OVI shareholder prior to closing. The letter of transmittal is also available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under OVI’s issuer profile. Former shareholders whose OVI Shares are registered in the name of a broker, investment dealer, bank, trust company or other intermediary should contact that intermediary for assistance in depositing their OVI Shares and follow its instructions.

The Transaction was unanimously approved by shareholders of OVI at a special meeting held on February 18, 2026 (the ‘Meeting‘). Further information about the Transaction is set forth in the joint news release of Sirios and OVI dated December 11, 2025 and the management information circular prepared by OVI in respect of the Meeting which was mailed to shareholders of OVI and filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under OVI’s issuer profile.

OVI has applied to cease to be a reporting issuer under applicable Canadian securities laws.

Pursuant to the Transaction, Sirios will issue an aggregate of 131,905,594 Sirios Shares. All 1,866,000 options to purchase OVI Shares outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the Transaction, whether or not vested, were exchanged for 4,366,440 options to acquire Sirios Shares, with an exercise price equal to approximately $0.05641 per Sirios Share, subject to rounding on the exercise thereof in accordance with the plan of arrangement and which expire on November 1, 2030.

OVI owns a portfolio of properties located in the James Bay region of Québec, including a 100% interest in the Corvet Est and PLEX gold projects. Certain of OVI’s properties are subject to royalties and contingent cash payments, which have been assumed indirectly by Sirios as a result of the Transaction.

Early Warning Disclosure

Prior to the completion of the Transaction, Sirios held no OVI Shares. Following the completion of the Transaction, Sirios holds all of the issued and outstanding OVI Shares. An early warning report will be filed by Sirios on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under OVI’s issuer profile in accordance with applicable securities laws. To obtain a copy of the early warning report, please contact the CEO of Sirios 438-454-5636 or info@sirios.com. Sirios’s head office is located at 1400 Marie-Victorin, Bureau 210, Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, Québec, J3V 6B9.

Advisors and Counsel

Bennett Jones LLP acted as legal counsel to OVI in connection with the Transaction. Mills Dunlop Capital Partners acted as financial advisor to OVI.

Stein Monast LLP acted as legal counsel to Sirios in connection with the Transaction.

About Sirios Resources Inc.

Sirios Resources Inc. (TSXV: SOI,OTC:SIREF) (OTCQB: SIREF) (www.sirios.com) is a Québec-based mineral exploration company focused on developing its portfolio of high-potential gold properties in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Canada.

For more information, please contact:

Sirios Resources Inc.
Jean-Félix Lepage, CEO
438-454-5636
info@sirios.com
www.sirios.com

OVI Mining Corp.
Jean-Félix Lepage, CEO
438-454-5636
jflepage@ovimining.com
www.ovimining.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as ‘expects’, or ‘does not expect’, ‘is expected’, ‘anticipates’ or ‘does not anticipate’, ‘plans’, ‘budget’, ‘scheduled’, ‘forecasts’, ‘estimates’, ‘believes’ or ‘intends’ or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results ‘may’ or ‘could’, ‘would’, ‘might’ or ‘will’ be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

In this news release, forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, statements regarding: the anticipated benefits of the Transaction, including potential synergies resulting from combining Sirios and OVI and the creation of a stronger, well-capitalized company; the enhanced portfolio of gold assets in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region; the expected advancement of exploration and development programs; the ability to deliver value for shareholders; future exploration results and the potential for resource growth; the expectations for the combined entity’s board, management team and operations; the roles and responsibilities of management, including those of Mr. Lepage, Mr. Doucet, Mr. Roosen and Mr. Farmer; the filing of an early warning report and the ceasing of OVI’s status as a reporting issuer; and any other statements that are not historical facts.

Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by Sirios and OVI in light of the experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, and expected future developments, and other factors they believe are appropriate. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future results and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from the potential results discussed in the forward-looking statements.

Risks and uncertainties that may cause such differences include, but are not limited to: fluctuations in the price of gold and other commodities; general economic, market and business conditions; the inherent risks associated with mineral exploration, development and mining operations; risks relating to the integration of Sirios and OVI and the realization of anticipated benefits from the Transaction; the volatility of the capital markets and market conditions in general; changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls and regulations; environmental risks and hazards; the speculative nature of mineral exploration; risks associated with obtaining and maintaining necessary licences, permits and authorizations and complying with permitting requirements; title matters; community and Indigenous relations; uncertainty in the estimation of mineral resources; competition for, among other things, capital, undeveloped lands and skilled personnel; risks relating to insufficient funding and the requirement for additional capital; risks relating to climate change and extreme weather events; the reliance on key personnel; the potential for conflicts of interest among certain officers and directors; and the other risks described in the continuous disclosure documents of Sirios filed with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Sirios and OVI believe that the expectations reflected in forward-looking statements are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct. As such, readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and, except as required under applicable securities legislation, Sirios and OVI assume no obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/285631

News Provided by TMX Newsfile via QuoteMedia

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Statistics Canada released its December data for gross domestic product (GDP) by industry on Friday (February 27).

While overall GDP increased 0.2 percent, the figures showed a broad 0.9 percent decline in the mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction sector, reversing a 0.1 percent increase in November. In real dollars, the sector contributed C$119.62 billion in the month, just shy of C$120.76 billion in November.

The decrease was due to a 1.1 percent contraction in the oil and gas subsector and a 1.4 percent decline in the mining and quarrying subsector. However, the fall off was slightly offset by a 1.6 percent increase in sector support activities.

The Canadian reporting agency also released its annual mineral production survey on Wednesday (February 25).

The data showed that 2025’s production and shipment numbers increased nearly across the board for copper, silver and gold.

In terms of production, copper output climbed to 499,896 metric tons, beating the 444,587 metric tons in 2024. The quantity of silver produced also rose significantly to 356,052 kilograms in 2025 from 331,965 kilograms. Gold also increased, though narrowly, to 186,923 kilograms from 185,555 kilograms the previous year.

As for shipments, copper climbed to 480,100 metric tons from 437,861 metric tons in 2024, while silver shipments increased to 344,133 kilograms from 325,705 kilograms. Of the three metals, only gold saw a decline, with shipments falling slightly to 184,456 kilograms from 185,376 kilograms a year earlier.

Several other resources, including cobalt and nickel, also saw sizeable jumps last year.

For more on what’s moving markets this week, check out our top market news round-up.

Markets and commodities react

Canadian equity markets were positive this week.

The S&P/TSX Composite Index (INDEXTSI:OSPTX) gained 2.3 percent over the week to close Friday (February 27) at 34,339.99, while the S&P/TSX Venture Composite Index (INDEXTSI:JX) rose 8.4 percent to 1,107.60.

The CSE Composite Index (CSE:CSECOMP) gained 4.02 percent to 174.55.

The gold price gained 1.36 percent to close at US$5,261.19 per ounce on Friday at 4:00 p.m. EST. The silver price fared better, closing the week up 6.55 percent at US$93.66 on Friday.

In base metals, the Comex copper price recorded a 3.24 percent increase this week to US$6.05.

The S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index (INDEXSP:SPGSCI) was up 2 percent to end Friday at 610.89.

Top Canadian mining stocks this week

How did mining stocks perform against this backdrop?Take a look at this week’s five best-performing Canadian mining stocks below.

Stocks data for this article was retrieved at 4:00 p.m. EST on Friday using TradingView’s stock screener. Only companies trading on the TSX, TSXV and CSE with market caps greater than C$10 million are included. Mineral companies within the non-energy minerals, energy minerals, process industry and producer manufacturing sectors were considered.

1. Adex Mining (TSXV:ADE)

Weekly gain: 171.43 percent
Market cap: C$27.09 million
Share price: C$0.095

Adex Mining is an exploration company that holds a 100 percent stake in the Mount Pleasant project in Southwest New Brunswick, Canada. The property contains two main deposits: the Fire Tower zone, which hosts tungsten and molybdenum mineralization, and the North zone, which hosts tin, zinc and indium.

The asset consists of 102 mineral claims covering 1,600 hectares, as well as equipment and facilities from historic mining operations conducted by BHP (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BHP) between 1983 and 1985.

According to its most recent investor presentation released on June 11, the property hosts the world’s largest indium reserve and North America’s largest tin deposit. Indicated resources for the North zone demonstrate contained metal values of 47 million kilograms of tin, and 789,000 kilograms of indium from 12.4 million metric tons with average grades of 0.38 percent tin and 64 parts per million indium.

Adex Mining has not released news since it published its interim management discussion and analysis on November 18.

The increase in Adex’s share price this week comes ahead of the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada convention, which is taking place in Toronto, Ontario, from March 1 to 4.

In a mid-February interview, New Brunswick Natural Resources Minister John Herron revealed that a deal “is due imminently with a well-known company in the Canadian mining community” for Adex’s Mount Pleasant project.

Additionally, he said the provincial government plans to introduce its new minerals strategy at PDAC on March 2. According to Herron, New Brunswick will adopt a one project, one process framework to quickly advance critical minerals projects.

2. US Copper (TSXV:USCU)

Weekly gain: 100 percent
Market cap: C$37.17 million
Share price: C$0.28

US Copper is an exploration company working to advance its Moonlight-Superior project in Northeast California, United States.

The project covers approximately 13 square miles of patented and unpatented federal mining claims in the Lights Creek Copper District, near the Nevada border.

A preliminary economic assessment released on January 6, 2025, demonstrated a post-tax net present value of US$1.08 billion with an internal rate of return of 23 percent and a payback period of 5.3 years, assuming a copper price of US$4.15 per pound.

The included mineral resource estimate shows a total indicated resource of 2.5 billion pounds of copper, 21.7 million ounces of silver and 140,042 ounces of gold from 402.83 million metric tons of ore with a grade of 0.31 percent copper, 1.85 parts per million (ppm) silver and 0.012 ppm gold. The majority is hosted at its Moonlight and Superior deposits.

The company has not released any news since December 15, when it announced that it had staked 54 additional claims, totalling 1,104 acres near Moonlight-Superior, that US Copper intends to use for the project’s infrastructure development.

The company also stated that it had begun metallurgical testing, which it expected to be completed in April 2026, with the release of partial results starting in February 2026.

3. Doubleview Gold (TSXV:DBG)

Weekly gain: 95.62 percent
Market cap: C$27.09 million
Share price: C$2.68

Doubleview Gold is an exploration company working to advance its Hat copper-gold project in Northwestern British Columbia, Canada.

The project is located within BC’s Golden Triangle, an area that hosts numerous active mines and development projects. The property consists of 19 mineral tenures covering an area of 18,000 hectares.

On February 25, Doubleview released an updated mineral resource estimate for its Hat project, reporting copper equivalent resources of 5.82 billion pounds in the measured and indicated categories and 4.57 billion pounds in the inferred category.

The measured and indicated resource includes 2.42 billion pounds of copper, 3.22 million ounces of gold, 80.1 million pounds of cobalt and 5.05 million ounces of silver from 609 million metric tons of ore with average grades of 0.21 percent copper, 0.18 grams per metric ton (g/t) gold, 0.008 percent cobalt and 0.38 g/t silver.

Additionally, the MRE reported a recoverable measured and indicated scandium oxide resource of 2,415 metric tons, grading 28.77 g/t.

Doubleview’s president and CEO stated that exploration of the property has increased the deposit’s size over the years, with it now covering an area of about 1.6 kilometers by 1.6 kilometers. He also noted that the company discovered additional elements within the deposit that it plans to unveil soon.

4. BP Silver (TSXV:BPAG)

Weekly gain: 62.16 percent
Market cap: C$35.9 million
Share price: C$1.20

BP Silver is an exploration company focused on its flagship Cosuño project in Bolivia.

The property covers approximately 3,375 hectares and hosts a 10.5 square kilometer alteration zone within an underexplored jurisdiction. To date, the company has identified four primary targets in the southern project area.

On February 27, the company announced assay results from the final eight holes of the 11 hole drill program at Cosuño.

Exploration encountered several zones of silver mineralization at the Pocañita Chica target. One hole delivered high grades of 600.4 g/t silver over 5 meters, which included an intersection of 1,655 g/t over 1 meter.

The company said it achieved its main goal of “confirming mineralization within the lithocap beneath surface geochemical anomalies,” which it said de-risks the project.

Additionally, BP Silver stated the drill program confirmed a silver and polymetallic mineralized system along a 2.7 kilometer long corridor that remains open in all directions.

5. Tsodilo Resources (TSXV:TSD)

Weekly gain: 61.29 percent
Market cap: C$21.75 million
Share price: C$0.25

Tsodilo Resources is a metals exploration company advancing its Gcwihaba polymetallic project in Northwest Botswana, which hosts the C26 and C27 rare earth skarn anomalies. It also owns the Xaudum iron formation project in the country.

At Gcwihaba, Tsodilo has identified a conceptual exploration target of skarn ore in the 81 million to 97 million metric ton range with grades of 0.05 and 1.49 percent total rare earth oxides (TREO).

The company originally identified the C26 and C27 targets through ground magnetic and gravity surveys, with drilling confirming mineralization at depths of 20 to 50 meters below surface.

Tsodilo plans to perform 15,000 meters of drilling in 2026, with a focus on defining high-grade REE zones, while also evaluating the system’s overall polymetallic potential.

The most recent news from the company came on February 2, when it reported that it had closed a C$742,095 private placement by issuing 4.95 million shares. Proceeds from the financing will be used to advance its projects in Botswana.

FAQs for Canadian mining stocks

What is the difference between the TSX and TSXV?

The TSX, or Toronto Stock Exchange, is used by senior companies with larger market caps, and the TSXV, or TSX Venture Exchange, is used by smaller-cap companies. Companies listed on the TSXV can graduate to the senior exchange.

How many mining companies are listed on the TSX and TSXV?

As of December 2025, 898 mining companies and 71 oil and gas companies are listed on the TSXV, combining for more than 60 percent of the 1,531 total companies listed on the exchange.

As for the TSX, it is home to 175 mining companies and 51 oil and gas companies. The exchange has 2,089 companies listed on it in total.

Together, the TSX and TSXV host around 40 percent of the world’s public mining companies.

How much does it cost to list on the TSXV?

There are a variety of different fees that companies must pay to list on the TSXV, and according to the exchange, they can vary based on the transaction’s nature and complexity. The listing fee alone will most likely cost between C$10,000 to C$70,000. Accounting and auditing fees could rack up between C$25,000 and C$100,000, while legal fees are expected to be over C$75,000 and an underwriters’ commission may hit up to 12 percent.

The exchange lists a handful of other fees and expenses companies can expect, including but not limited to security commission and transfer agency fees, investor relations costs and director and officer liability insurance.

These are all just for the initial listing, of course. There are ongoing expenses once companies are trading, such as sustaining fees and additional listing fees, plus the costs associated with filing regular reports.

How do you trade on the TSXV?

Investors can trade on the TSXV the way they would trade stocks on any exchange. This means they can use a stock broker or an individual investment account to buy and sell shares of TSXV-listed companies during the exchange’s trading hours.

Article by Dean Belder; FAQs by Lauren Kelly.

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Securities Disclosure: I, Lauren Kelly, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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