Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Private placement financing. Aurania recently closed the first tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of up to 5,000,000 units at a price of C$0.30 per unit for gross proceeds of up to C$1,500,000. An aggregate of 3,182,899 units were sold under the first tranche for gross proceeds of C$954,869.70. Dr. Keith Barron, Chairman, President, and CEO, acquired 1,000,000 units under the offering and owns or exercises control over 47,672,635 common shares, 1,752,992 options, and 12,399,135 warrants representing 44.41% and 50.88% of the company’s issued and outstanding common shares on a non-diluted and partially diluted basis, respectively. Aurania expects to close the final tranche of its non-brokered private placement on or around May 5.
Loan agreement. Dr. Keith Barron has also agreed to provide a loan of up to US$2,094,500 to the company. The loan will be advanced from time to time in mutually agreed upon principal amounts. The loan is unsecured and bears interest at 2% per annum. The proceeds are expected to be used to fund Aurania’s remaining 2024 mineral concession fees in Ecuador, which are due on May 1.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
April 30, 2025 – Vancouver, Canada – Century Lithium Corp. (TSXV: LCE) (OTCQX: CYDVF) (Frankfurt: C1Z) (“Century Lithium” or “the Company”) is pleased to provide an update on its 100%-owned lithium project, Angel Island (“Angel Island”) near Silver Peak, Nevada.
Strategic Policy Developments
Century Lithium welcomes recent Executive Orders from the White House under President Donald J. Trump, which prioritize domestic mining and processing of critical minerals. These directives emphasize the need for a secure US-based supply chain for lithium, which is an essential mineral for use in battery production for energy storage, EVs, and defense. The Company believes it is uniquely positioned to support this national initiative with Angel Island, a feasibility-level lithium project, and a single-source miner and producer of lithium carbonate.
“Century Lithium is uniquely prepared to contribute to a domestic solution for lithium products at Angel Island,” said Bill Willoughby, Century Lithium President and CEO. “Our demonstration plant and advanced technology position us to contribute to the efforts of the US mining industry in building secure and sustainable domestic critical minerals supply chains.”
Permitting Update
The Company recently met with the Nevada State Office of the Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”) to discuss the implications of recent White House Executive Orders and progress on environmental studies and permitting for Angel Island. On the Federal level, the remaining steps include completion and approval of final baseline studies, and completion and submittal of the Mine Plan of Operations (“PoO”) for BLM approval. Following approval of the PoO, the BLM will determine the appropriate level of National Environmental Policy Act analysis that will be required, either an environmental assessment or an environmental impact statement. Throughout this process to date, the BLM has provided helpful and timely assistance as we work through the permitting process. Century Lithium looks forward to a continued positive working relationship with the BLM moving forward.
ABOUT CENTURY LITHIUM CORP.
Century Lithium Corp. is an advanced stage lithium company, focused on developing its wholly owned Angel Island project in Esmeralda County, Nevada, which hosts one of the largest sedimentary lithium deposits in the United States. The Company has utilized its patent-pending process for chloride leaching combined with direct lithium extraction to make battery-grade lithium carbonate product samples from Angel Island’s lithium-bearing claystone on-site at its Demonstration Plant in Amargosa Valley, Nevada. Angel Island is one of the few advanced lithium projects in development in the United States to provide an end-to-end process to produce battery-grade lithium carbonate for the growing electric vehicle an battery storage market. Angel Island is currently in the permitting stage for a three-phase feasibility-level production plan expected to yield an estimated life-of-mine average of 34,000 tonnes per year of carbonate over a 40-year mine-life.
To learn more, please visit centurylithium.com
ON BEHALF OF CENTURY LITHIUM CORP. WILLIAM WILLOUGHBY, PhD., PE President & Chief Executive Officer
ARLP is a diversified natural resource company that generates operating and royalty income from coal produced by its mining complexes and royalty income from mineral interests it owns in strategic oil & gas producing regions in the United States, primarily the Permian, Anadarko and Williston basins. ARLP currently produces coal from seven mining complexes its subsidiaries operate in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland and West Virginia. ARLP also operates a coal loading terminal on the Ohio River at Mount Vernon, Indiana. ARLP markets its coal production to major domestic and international utilities and industrial users and is currently the second largest coal producer in the eastern United States. In addition, ARLP is positioning itself as an energy provider for the future by leveraging its core technology and operating competencies to make strategic investments in the fast growing energy and infrastructure transition.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
First quarter financial results. Alliance reported first quarter adjusted EBITDA and earnings per unit (EPU) of $159.9 million and $0.57, respectively, compared to $238.4 million and $1.21 during the prior year period. We had projected EBITDA and EPU of $143.8 million and $0.48. While total revenue of $540.5 million was just shy of our $541.1 million estimate, we underestimated coal sales and overstated transportation revenue. Consequently, transportation expense was also overstated. Total operating expenses were $446.2 million compared to our $462.3 million forecast.
Corporate outlook for 2025 and 2026. Management’s guidance for 2025 was little changed, except for increasing the range for total coal sales tonnage, increasing expense as a percentage of oil & gas royalty revenue, depreciation expense, and lowering net interest expense expectations. For 2026, management expects the average coal sales price per ton to trend lower. Due to higher-priced, multi-contracts rolling off, the average sales price per ton could be 4% to 5% below the midpoint of ARLP’s 2025 guidance. We think planned 2025 long wall moves and actions to improve productivity and cost effectiveness could help offset lower prices.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Virginia City, Nevada, April 29, 2025 – Comstock Inc. (NYSE: LODE) (“Comstock” and the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the Company’s Executive Chairman & CEO, Corrado De Gasperis, and COO, William McCarthy will be providing an overview of recent financial results and current business updates on Thursday, May 8, 2025, at 4:30pm ET. We invite all investors and other interested parties to register for the webinar at the link below.
There will be an allotted time following the live presentation for a Q&A session. Unaddressed questions will be reviewed by management and responded to accordingly. You may submit your question(s) beforehand in the registration form (linked above) or by email at: ir@comstockinc.com.
About Comstock Inc.
Comstock Inc. (NYSE: LODE) innovates and commercializes technologies that are deployable across entire industries to contribute to energy abundance by efficiently extracting and converting under-utilized natural resources, such as waste and other forms of woody biomass into renewable fuels, and end-of-life electronics into recovered electrification metals. Comstock’s innovations group is also developing and using artificial intelligence technologies for advanced materials development and mineral discovery for sustainable mining. To learn more, please visit www.comstock.inc.
Comstock Social Media Policy
Comstock Inc. has used, and intends to continue using, its investor relations link and main website at www.comstock.inc in addition to its X.com, LinkedIn and YouTube accounts, as means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with its disclosure obligations under Regulation FD.
Contacts
For investor inquiries: William McCarthy, Chief Operating Officer Tel (775) 413-6222 ir@comstockinc.com
For media inquiries: Tracy Saville, Director of Marketing Tel (775) 847-7573 media@comstockinc.com
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release and any related calls or discussions may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. The words “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “project,” “plan,” “should,” “intend,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “potential” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements but are not the exclusive means of doing so. Forward-looking statements include statements about matters such as: future market conditions; future explorations or acquisitions; future changes in our research, development and exploration activities; future financial, natural, and social gains; future prices and sales of, and demand for, our products and services; land entitlements and uses; permits; production capacity and operations; operating and overhead costs; future capital expenditures and their impact on us; operational and management changes (including changes in the Board of Directors); changes in business strategies, planning and tactics; future employment and contributions of personnel, including consultants; future land and asset sales; investments, acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, business combinations, operational, tax, financial and restructuring initiatives, including the nature, timing and accounting for restructuring charges, derivative assets and liabilities and the impact thereof; contingencies; litigation, administrative or arbitration proceedings; environmental compliance and changes in the regulatory environment; offerings, limitations on sales or offering of equity or debt securities, including asset sales and associated costs; business opportunities, growth rates, future working capital, needs, revenues, variable costs, throughput rates, operating expenses, debt levels, cash flows, margins, taxes and earnings. These statements are based on assumptions and assessments made by our management in light of their experience and their perception of historical and current trends, current conditions, possible future developments and other factors they believe to be appropriate. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees, representations or warranties and are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are unforeseeable and beyond our control and could cause actual results, developments, and business decisions to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Some of those risks and uncertainties include the risk factors set forth in our filings with the SEC and the following: adverse effects of climate changes or natural disasters; adverse effects of global or regional pandemic disease spread or other crises; global economic and capital market uncertainties; the speculative nature of gold or mineral exploration, and lithium, nickel and cobalt recycling, including risks of diminishing quantities or grades of qualified resources; operational or technical difficulties in connection with exploration, metal recycling, processing or mining activities; costs, hazards and uncertainties associated with precious and other metal based activities, including environmentally friendly and economically enhancing clean mining and processing technologies, precious metal exploration, resource development, economic feasibility assessment and cash generating mineral production; costs, hazards and uncertainties associated with metal recycling, processing or mining activities; contests over our title to properties; potential dilution to our stockholders from our stock issuances, recapitalization and balance sheet restructuring activities; potential inability to comply with applicable government regulations or law; adoption of or changes in legislation or regulations adversely affecting our businesses; permitting constraints or delays; challenges to, or potential inability to, achieve the benefits of business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, us, including those involving battery technology and efficacy, quantum computing and generative artificial intelligence supported advanced materials development, development of cellulosic technology in bio-fuels and related material production; commercialization of cellulosic technology in bio-fuels and generative artificial intelligence development services; ability to successfully identify, finance, complete and integrate acquisitions, joint ventures, strategic alliances, business combinations, asset sales, and investments that we may be party to in the future; changes in the United States or other monetary or fiscal policies or regulations; interruptions in our production capabilities due to capital constraints; equipment failures; fluctuation of prices for gold or certain other commodities (such as silver, zinc, lithium, nickel, cobalt, cyanide, water, diesel, gasoline and alternative fuels and electricity); changes in generally accepted accounting principles; adverse effects of war, mass shooting, terrorism and geopolitical events; potential inability to implement our business strategies; potential inability to grow revenues; potential inability to attract and retain key personnel; interruptions in delivery of critical supplies, equipment and raw materials due to credit or other limitations imposed by vendors; assertion of claims, lawsuits and proceedings against us; potential inability to satisfy debt and lease obligations; potential inability to maintain an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting; potential inability or failure to timely file periodic reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission; potential inability to list our securities on any securities exchange or market or maintain the listing of our securities; and work stoppages or other labor difficulties. Occurrence of such events or circumstances could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, or the market price of our securities. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements by or attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these factors. Except as may be required by securities or other law, we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Neither this press release nor any related calls or discussions constitutes an offer to sell, the solicitation of an offer to buy or a recommendation with respect to any securities of the Company, the fund, or any other issuer.
Key Points: – Creating a gold-antimony producer with three cash-generating mines in Australia and Sweden. – Targeting ~160,000 gold-equivalent ounces in 2025, rising to ~180,000 ounces in 2026. – Strong balance sheet, index inclusion potential, and major growth projects underway.
Alkane Resources and Mandalay Resources have announced a transformative “merger of equals,” creating a new mid-tier gold and antimony producer with global ambitions. Under the agreement, Alkane will acquire all Mandalay shares through a court-approved plan of arrangement, offering 7.875 Alkane shares for each Mandalay share. The new combined company, retaining the Alkane Resources name, will boast a market capitalization near A$1 billion (C$898 million), with listings planned on both the ASX and TSX.
This merger creates an impressive platform of three operating, cash-generating mines: Tomingley in Australia (Alkane’s flagship), Costerfield in Australia (Mandalay’s high-margin gold-antimony asset), and Björkdal in Sweden (Mandalay’s established gold producer). Together, they are projected to deliver approximately 160,000 gold-equivalent ounces in 2025, growing to over 180,000 ounces in 2026.
The financial strength of the new entity is also notable, with a combined proforma cash balance of A$188 million as of March 31, 2025. This strong liquidity profile positions the combined company to aggressively pursue exploration, development, and potential future acquisitions, including advancing Alkane’s significant Boda-Kaiser copper-gold project.
Management continuity and expertise are at the forefront of the merger strategy. Alkane’s Managing Director, Nic Earner, will lead the combined company, alongside Mandalay executives such as COO Ryan Austerberry and VP of Exploration Chris Davis. This integration promises operational stability and continued success across all assets.
From a shareholder perspective, the merger is positioned as highly accretive. Mandalay shareholders will gain exposure to Alkane’s promising growth projects, particularly Tomingley’s ramp-up and Boda-Kaiser’s copper-gold potential. Alkane shareholders, meanwhile, benefit from immediate diversification into antimony — a critical mineral — and established production from Sweden.
Critically, the companies expect the transaction to unlock a valuation re-rate. The merged entity will target inclusion in major indices such as the ASX 300 and the GDXJ ETF, with the goal of attracting greater institutional investment and improving trading liquidity.
Both boards unanimously recommend the deal, and major shareholders, representing about 45% of Mandalay and 19% of Alkane’s shares, have already committed their support. Subject to shareholder votes, court approvals, and regulatory consents, the transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025.
Industry observers see this merger as part of a broader consolidation trend among mid-tier mining companies, seeking greater scale, asset diversification, and global relevance. Alkane and Mandalay’s combination clearly fits this mold, building a stronger, growth-focused mining company with a robust balance sheet and production base.
As both companies move forward toward completing the transaction, the new Alkane Resources stands to emerge as a serious competitor in the mid-tier gold and critical minerals space — offering investors a compelling blend of production, growth, and financial strength.
Total revenue of $540.5 million, net income of $74.0 million, and Adjusted EBITDA of $159.9 million
$57.7 million increase in net income and $36.0 million increase in Adjusted EBITDA compared to the Sequential Quarter
Added 17.7 million tons of contract commitments over the 2025 – 2028 time period
2025 expected coal sales volumes over 96% committed and priced
Declares quarterly cash distribution of $0.70 per unit, or $2.80 per unit annualized
TULSA, Okla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Alliance Resource Partners, L.P. (NASDAQ: ARLP) (“ARLP” or the “Partnership”) today reported financial and operating results for the quarter ended March 31, 2025 (the “2025 Quarter”). This release includes comparisons of results to the quarter ended March 31, 2024 (the “2024 Quarter”), and to the quarter ended December 31, 2024 (the “Sequential Quarter”). All references in the text of this release to “net income” refer to “net income attributable to ARLP.” For a definition of Adjusted EBITDA and related reconciliation to its comparable GAAP financial measure, please see the end of this release.
Total revenues in the 2025 Quarter decreased 17.1% to $540.5 million compared to $651.7 million for the 2024 Quarter primarily as a result of reduced coal sales volumes and prices as well as lower transportation revenues. Net income for the 2025 Quarter was $74.0 million, or $0.57 per basic and diluted limited partner unit, compared to $158.1 million, or $1.21 per basic and diluted limited partner unit, for the 2024 Quarter as a result of lower revenues and a decrease in the fair value of our digital assets, partially offset by lower operating expenses. Adjusted EBITDA for the 2025 Quarter was $159.9 million compared to $238.4 million in the 2024 Quarter.
Compared to the Sequential Quarter, net income in the 2025 Quarter increased by $57.7 million as a result of higher oil & gas royalty revenues, which increased 18.7%, improved per ton costs at our coal operations, lower depreciation, and an asset impairment charge in the Sequential Quarter. Partially offsetting these increases, coal sales volumes declined 7.7% and the fair value of our digital assets decreased compared to the Sequential Quarter. Adjusted EBITDA for the 2025 Quarter increased 29.0% compared to the Sequential Quarter.
CEO Commentary
“Our overall operations performed as anticipated during the quarter, delivering sequential and year-over-year cost improvements in the Illinois Basin,” commented Joseph W. Craft III, Chairman, President and CEO. “In Appalachia, we expect meaningful improvement in mining conditions for the rest of the year, leading to increased production and lower costs to fall within our 2025 full year guidance range.”
Mr. Craft continued, “We were active on the contracting front, securing 17.7 million tons of additional contract commitments over the 2025-2028 time period. For 2025, we now have over 96% of our projected midpoint coal sales volumes contractually committed. The domestic market strengthened considerably in early 2025 due to the cold winter season, higher natural gas prices, diminishing coal inventories, and upward revisions in electricity demand forecasts from our customers, who continue to recognize ARLP as a trusted partner for their critical baseload fuel requirements.”
Mr. Craft concluded, “On April 8, 2025, President Trump signed four Executive Orders to expand domestic coal-fired generation, seeking affordable electricity for the American people and grid stability in anticipation of growing energy demand which is critical for our country’s national security interests. The Executive Order addressing grid reliability cited that rapid technological advancements, an expansion of AI data centers, and increased domestic manufacturing are driving an unprecedented surge in electricity demand and placing a significant strain on our nation’s electric grid. The White House now forecasts that U.S. electricity demand is expected to rise 16% over the next five years, three times the growth forecasted just a year ago.”
Toronto, Ontario–(Newsfile Corp. – April 25, 2025) – Aurania Resources Ltd. (TSXV: ARU) (OTCQB: AUIAF) (FSE: 20Q) (“Aurania” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Carolyn Muir as Corporate Secretary of the Company, in addition to her role as Vice President, Corporate Development & Investor Relations. The Company also reports that its Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, are available under Aurania’s public filings on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com and on the Company’s website. Highlights are described below.
Highlights from Management’s Discussion and Analysis
During the fourth quarter of 2024, the Company advanced drill target definition at its Kuri-Yawi gold target through detailed geophysical surveys and geological mapping. Preliminary results show a large vertical conductive corridor aligned with thallium-rich chalcedony veins, sinters and hydrothermal alterations, key indicators of epithermal systems. Two main chargeability structures were identified, interpreted as potential mineralized zones. Ongoing data integration will guide preparations for a future drill campaign.
The Anaconda mapping program at the Awacha porphyry copper target area was completed during 2024. Initial geological reconnaissance has confirmed an area of interest through the observation of porphyric intrusive showing potassic and sericite alteration with the presence of quartz veins with chalcopyrite traces. Next steps will consist of an interpretation of all the data collected with the realization of thematic maps to define the most prospective area of interest.
During 2024, Aurania’s CSR activities supported clean water access, education, and women’s entrepreneurship across the communities in its areas of influence in Ecuador, including the launch of a micro-business program, school and library construction, and community-based training initiatives.
The Swiss challenge and public consultation phases associated with the application for a 51 km² exploration permit-located immediately adjacent to the South Armorican Shear (cisaillement sud-armoricain) in the Brittany Peninsula of northwestern France-have now been completed, and the Company continues to advance through the progress of the application.
The Company signed non-binding memoranda of understanding with the Communes of Ogliastro and Nonza in Cap Corse, Northern Corsica, France, for the exploitation of heavy mineral beach placers that are highly enriched in nickel (Ni) and other metals. The nickel-bearing mineral in the black magnetic sand is awaruite, a naturally occurring nickel-iron alloy, which is both of high specific gravity (dense) and of high magnetic susceptibility (magnetic).
AuroVallis, the wholly owned Swiss subsidiary of Aurania, completed the liquidation process initiated several years on June 30, 2024, with no impact on the Company’s consolidated financial figures.
On September 23, 2024, Palamina Corp. (“Palamina”), completed the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Aurania’s Peruvian subsidiary in exchange of 350,000 common shares of Palamina Corp. (TSXV: PA) (OTCQB: PLMNF) and a 1% Net Smelter Return (“NSR”) royalty over certain mining claims located in Peru and held by the Company’s subsidiary. Palamina has the option to buy back half of the NSR for $1,000,000 at any time.
During 2024, the Company completed two non-brokered private placements totaling $5,429,481 in gross proceeds, with units priced at $0.20 and $0.45, each including one common share and one warrant. Proceeds were used to advance exploration activities and working capital. To preserve cash and improve the balance sheet, the Company settled $3,812,781 in debt owed to Dr. Keith Barron through the issuance of common shares. Additionally, the Company received a $1,000,000 unsecured loan from Dr. Barron to support ongoing operations.
The Company reached an agreement with the corresponding Ecuadorian authorities for the payment of the annual concession fees of its 42 mineral exploration concessions in Ecuador for the year 2024. Subsequent to year end, the Company filed all the appropriate documentation for the renewal of its 42 mineral exploration concessions in Ecuador for the year 2025 and filed a request to enter into a new agreement for payment of the associated annual concession fees. Its property in Ecuador remains in good standing while an agreement is being finalized.
Subsequent to year end, on April 3, 2025, the Company announced its intention to complete a non-brokered private placement financing of up to 5,000,000 units of the Company at a price of $0.30 per unit for total gross proceeds of up to $1,500,000. On April 17, 2025, the Company announced the closure of the first tranche. An aggregate of 3,182,899 units were sold under the first tranche for total gross proceeds of $954,870. Each unit consisting of one common share of the Company and one common share purchase warrant, the warrant having and exercise price of $0.55 per common share and an expiry date of two years after closing of the first tranche. Dr. Keith Barron subscribed for 1,000,000 Units of this offering.
Option Grant
On April 24, 2025, Ms. Carolyn Muir was granted 130,000 stock options exercisable at C$0.27 each in connection with her appointment as Corporate Secretary and her existing roles as VP Corporate Development and Investor Relations of the Corporation. The options have a 5-year expiry term and shall vest one-third immediately, one-third one year from the date of grant, and one-third vesting two years after the date of grant.
Qualified Person
The technical information contained in this news release has been verified and approved by Jean-Paul Pallier, MSc. Mr. Pallier is a designated EurGeol by the European Federation of Geologists and is a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects of the Canadian Securities Administrators.
About Aurania
Aurania is a mineral exploration company engaged in the identification, evaluation, acquisition, and exploration of mineral property interests, with a focus on precious metals and copper in South America. Its flagship asset, The Lost Cities – Cutucu Project, is located in the Jurassic Metallogenic Belt in the eastern foothills of the Andes mountain range of southeastern Ecuador.
Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
Forward-Looking Statements This news release contains forward-looking information as such term is defined in applicable securities laws, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management’s current expectations and assumptions. The forward-looking information includes Aurania’s objectives, goals or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, the corporation’s portfolio, treasury, management team and enhanced capital markets profile, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration, timing of the commencement of operations, the Company’s teams being on track ahead of any drill program, the commencement of any drill program and estimates of market conditions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to Aurania, including the assumption that, there will be no material adverse change in metal prices, all necessary consents, licenses, permits and approvals will be obtained, including various local government licenses and the market. Investors are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected. Risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking information include, among other things: commodity prices, supply chain disruptions, restrictions on labour and workplace attendance and local and international travel; a failure to obtain or delays in obtaining the required regulatory licenses, permits, approvals and consents; an inability to access financing as needed; a general economic downturn, a volatile stock price, labour strikes, political unrest, changes in the mining regulatory regime governing Aurania; a failure to comply with environmental regulations; a weakening of market and industry reliance on precious metals and base metals; and those risks set out in the Company’s public documents filed on SEDAR+. Aurania cautions the reader that the above list of risk factors is not exhaustive. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.
Key Points: – Alpayana offers $1.15/share cash for Sierra Metals in a board-supported bid. – Sierra Metals’ board recommends shareholders accept the premium offer. – Experienced Alpayana extends bid deadline to May 12, 2025.
In a development that could significantly impact small and micro-cap mining investors, Sierra Metals Inc. (TSX: SMT) has announced an agreement in principle for an all-cash takeover bid from Alpayana S.A.C. and its Canadian subsidiary, Alpayana Canada Ltd. The offer, priced at CDN $1.15 per common share, represents a board-supported initiative that aims to bring Sierra Metals under the ownership of the experienced Peruvian mining firm.
This agreement marks a potential turning point for Sierra Metals, a Canadian company focused on copper production with additional base and precious metals by-products from its Yauricocha Mine in Peru and Bolivar Mine in Mexico. The all-cash offer provides a clear exit strategy for current shareholders at a defined premium, pending the finalization of a support agreement expected by April 30, 2025.
The CDN $1.15 per share bid has garnered the unanimous support of Sierra Metals’ Board of Directors and a special committee of independent directors. This endorsement is further strengthened by an oral fairness opinion from BMO Capital Markets, Sierra Metals’ financial advisor, which suggests the offer is fair from a financial perspective to the company’s shareholders, subject to certain conditions and limitations. Consequently, the Sierra Metals board will unanimously recommend that shareholders tender their shares to the Supported Bid.
Alpayana’s interest in Sierra Metals comes from a position of financial strength and extensive operational experience. Alpayana is a family-owned, private mining company with over 38 years of experience operating in Peru. Notably, the company boasts annual revenues exceeding US$500 million and is currently debt-free, indicating a robust financial foundation to support this acquisition. Alpayana emphasizes a commitment to sustainable and responsible mining practices, focusing on the well-being of employees, communities, and the environment. Their track record includes successful mergers and acquisitions and a long-term investment perspective.
To facilitate the transaction and provide Sierra Metals shareholders ample time to consider the offer, Alpayana Canada has extended the expiry time of its existing takeover bid to 5:00 p.m. (Toronto time) on May 12, 2025. This extension suggests a commitment from Alpayana to ensure a smooth and considered process for shareholders.
For investors in the small and micro-cap space, this acquisition presents a potential opportunity to realize immediate value on their Sierra Metals holdings. The all-cash nature of the offer removes future market risk associated with the company’s stock. However, for those who believe in Sierra Metals’ long-term growth potential, particularly given its recent discoveries and exploration opportunities in Peru and Mexico, the offer might represent a premature exit.
The coming weeks will be crucial as the support agreement is finalized and Sierra Metals issues an amended Directors’ Circular with further details and its formal recommendation. Investors should carefully review these documents and assess their investment objectives in light of this developing acquisition.
Key Points – US plans tariffs up to 3,521% on solar panel imports from four Southeast Asian nations. – Domestic solar stocks surged, led by First Solar and Sunnova Energy. – The move could revive US-based solar manufacturing and reshape the industry.
Solar stocks rallied Tuesday after the US Department of Commerce unveiled plans to impose massive tariffs — as high as 3,521% — on solar panel imports from four Southeast Asian countries. The move sent shares of domestic solar manufacturers sharply higher as investors bet on a wave of renewed demand for American-made panels.
First Solar (FSLR) led the charge, soaring more than 9%, while Sunnova Energy (NOVA) jumped over 12%. Other solar-related names like SolarEdge Technologies (SEDG), Array Technologies (ARRY), and Enphase Energy (ENPH) also posted notable gains. The Invesco Solar ETF (TAN), a barometer for the sector, rose nearly 5% on the day, signaling a broad-based rally.
The proposed duties follow a yearlong investigation into claims that Chinese solar manufacturers were using proxy operations in Southeast Asia to circumvent earlier trade restrictions. The Commerce Department concluded that imports from Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam were being “dumped” into the US market — sold at artificially low prices — with the backing of Chinese state subsidies. Companies in Cambodia that failed to cooperate with the probe face the stiffest penalties.
If approved by the International Trade Commission (ITC), the tariffs could reshape the competitive landscape for solar panel manufacturing, providing a significant tailwind for US-based producers. The ITC has until June 2 to determine whether the subsidized imports harmed the domestic solar industry — a key requirement before the Commerce Department can implement the levies.
The decision is a major victory for the American Alliance for Solar Manufacturing, a coalition of US-based producers that pushed for the trade probe. The group has long argued that Chinese-headquartered firms have gamed the system by establishing operations in neighboring countries while continuing to benefit from Chinese subsidies. Advocates say the resulting price suppression has undermined domestic companies and led to job losses across the sector.
For US manufacturers, the announcement caps years of efforts to shift production closer to home — a trend first accelerated by the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, which offered tax incentives for domestic clean energy development. Companies like Enphase and First Solar have been actively reshoring production. First Solar, for example, opened a new facility in Alabama last year and now boasts a sizable manufacturing footprint in Ohio and Louisiana.
Despite Tuesday’s rally, solar stocks have struggled in 2025. Rising interest rates have increased financing costs for consumers, putting downward pressure on demand. The sector was also rattled by political headwinds following President Trump’s return to the White House and his vocal support for traditional energy. The tariffs, however, may signal a shift — a more nuanced approach to energy independence that could favor domestic solar even under a fossil fuel-friendly administration.
While the solar ETF TAN remains down more than 13% year to date and 27% lower over the past 12 months, the tariff announcement could serve as a turning point. Investors appear to be recalibrating their expectations for the space, betting that the tariff protections will help stabilize margins and renew growth.
If finalized, the tariffs could usher in a new chapter for American solar, one where domestic innovation and manufacturing play a central role in the industry’s expansion.
Key Points: – CMOC’s acquisition of Lumina Gold offers shareholders a 71% premium over the 20-day VWAP and a 41% premium over the April 17, 2025 closing price. – The acquisition aims to propel the development of the Cangrejos project, one of the largest primary gold deposits globally, with CMOC providing interim financing to support ongoing needs. – The deal reflects strong investor confidence in the mining sector, potentially influencing indices like the Russell 2000 and upcoming Russell reconstitution.
Lumina Gold Corp. (TSXV: LUM) has announced a definitive agreement to be acquired by CMOC Singapore Pte. Ltd., a subsidiary of CMOC Group Limited, in a strategic all-cash transaction valued at approximately C$581 million. Under the deal, CMOC will purchase all outstanding Lumina shares at C$1.27 per share — a significant premium that reflects growing interest in high-potential gold projects and underscores the strategic value of Lumina’s flagship asset, the Cangrejos project in Ecuador.
This premium amounts to a 71% increase over Lumina’s 20-day volume-weighted average price (VWAP) and a 41% premium to its closing price on April 17. The all-cash offer, which is not subject to financing conditions, offers immediate liquidity to shareholders and removes future exposure to commodity and execution risks.
Backed by over a decade of exploration and development, Lumina has transformed the Cangrejos project from an undeveloped parcel into one of the largest primary gold deposits in the world. With proven scale and a completed Pre-Feasibility Study in 2023, Cangrejos represents a cornerstone asset for CMOC’s continued expansion into Latin America’s resource-rich regions.
As part of the transaction, CMOC has also committed to interim financing of US$20 million via unsecured convertible notes to support near-term development. The notes carry a 6% annual interest rate and a conversion price of C$1.00 per share — itself an 11% premium to Lumina’s market close at the time of signing.
Lumina’s board of directors unanimously approved the transaction following a recommendation from a special committee of independent directors. Shareholders holding 52.3% of Lumina’s outstanding shares have already entered into support agreements to vote in favor of the acquisition. The board also received a fairness opinion from RBC Capital Markets, affirming that the offer is fair from a financial standpoint.
CEO Marshall Koval expressed confidence in the new ownership, noting, “The Lumina team is excited for the transition of the Cangrejos project to CMOC. We look forward to working with them and our stakeholders to ensure the project’s success.” His optimism reflects not just a major milestone for Lumina but also growing global confidence in strategic resource development.
The transaction still requires regulatory approvals, court sanctioning, and support from two-thirds of Lumina’s shareholders and option/RSU holders at a special meeting. If completed as expected in Q3 2025, Lumina will be delisted from the TSXV and will cease to be a reporting issuer under Canadian securities laws.
For the broader market — especially small-cap mining investors — the deal signals a strong vote of confidence in the long-term value of precious metals. As geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty drive interest in hard assets, acquisitions like this could draw renewed attention to junior miners with quality assets and strong development pipelines. With the Russell Reconstitution on the horizon, such transactions could also influence index inclusion for mining-focused small caps, giving them greater visibility and institutional exposure.
In the current environment, CMOC’s acquisition of Lumina is more than just a business deal — it’s a strategic alignment that underscores the future of gold exploration and the global appetite for untapped mineral wealth.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Private placement financing. Aurania Resources Ltd. closed the first tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement financing of up to 5,000,000 units at a price of C$0.30 per unit for gross proceeds of up to C$1,500,000. An aggregate of 3,182,899 units were sold under the first tranche for gross proceeds of C$954,869.70. Dr. Keith Barron, CEO and a director, acquired 1,000,000 units under the offering and owns or exercises control over 47,672,635 common shares, 1,752,992 options, and 12,399,135 warrants representing 44.41% and 50.88% of the company’s issued and outstanding common shares on a non-diluted and partially diluted basis, respectively.
Terms of the offering. Each unit is composed of one common share and one common share purchase warrant. Each warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share at an exercise price of C$0.55 for a period of 24 months following the closing of the first tranche. To accommodate demand, Aurania may increase the size of the offering by up to 25% and expects to close the remaining tranche(s) on or around April 24.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).
*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision.
Comstock (NYSE: LODE) innovates technologies that contribute to global decarbonization and circularity by efficiently converting under-utilized natural resources into renewable fuels and electrification products that contribute to balancing global uses and emissions of carbon. The Company intends to achieve exponential growth and extraordinary financial, natural, and social gains by building, owning, and operating a fleet of advanced carbon neutral extraction and refining facilities, by selling an array of complimentary process solutions and related services, and by licensing selected technologies to qualified strategic partners. To learn more, please visit www.comstock.inc.
Mark Reichman, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Natural Resources, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Hans Baldau, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.
Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.
Partnership with RWE. Comstock Metals entered into a Master Services Agreement with RWE Clean Energy, the U.S. subsidiary of RWE, which operates a renewable energy portfolio of approximately 10 gigawatts. It is the third largest owner and operator of onshore wind, solar, and battery storage in the United States. Comstock Metals will provide RWE with recycling, decommissioning, and logistics services for their U.S. solar installations to ensure a zero-landfill solution for 100% of the recovered solar panel materials.
Industry-scale facility. Comstock Metals has operated a demonstration-scale solar panel recycling facility since 2024. The company generates revenue through service fees for decommissioning, tipping fees for receiving and processing end-of-life solar panels, and offtake sales of high-value recycled materials, including aluminum, copper, glass, and concentrated precious metals. Comstock expects to spend $6 million to build its first large-scale facility in 2025. The project will be commissioned in 2026 and will scale in two phases, with initial capacity of up to 50,000 tons annually by 2026, and then to 100,000 tons annually.
Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.
Key Points: – Gold has overtaken the “Magnificent Seven” tech stocks as the most crowded trade on Wall Street. – Gold futures have hit a record $3,334 per ounce, rising over 27% year to date. – Shifting sentiment may benefit small-cap gold miners as capital rotates into safe-haven assets.
Gold is having its moment. In a year marked by volatility, uncertainty, and waning confidence in traditional tech plays, the precious metal has surged to all-time highs, overtaking the once-dominant “Magnificent Seven” tech stocks as Wall Street’s most crowded trade.
Gold futures (GC=F) soared to a new record of $3,334 per ounce this week, pushing year-to-date gains past 27%. This run-up is more than just a short-term spike — it marks a dramatic shift in sentiment from the high-growth, high-risk appetite that dominated the last bull cycle to a focus on stability, safety, and long-term value preservation. According to the latest Bank of America fund managers survey, nearly half (49%) of respondents identified “long gold” as the most crowded trade right now — the first time in two years that gold, not tech, has held that title.
Compare that with the once-revered Magnificent Seven — Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Meta, Tesla, and Nvidia — which have seen steep drawdowns in 2025. Tesla leads the slump with a 38% drop, while Apple and Nvidia have both tumbled 21%. Regulatory headwinds, rising costs, and tariff uncertainty have weighed on investor sentiment across the sector, leaving room for gold to steal the spotlight.
The reasons behind gold’s surge are multifaceted. First, central bank demand remains at record levels, with nations diversifying away from dollar-denominated assets. Second, inflows into gold-backed ETFs have risen as both institutional and retail investors look for shelter amid geopolitical instability and a weakening US dollar. The backdrop of rising trade tensions — particularly the escalating tariff battle between the US and China — has further fueled safe-haven demand.
More than just a hedge against inflation, gold is now seen as a vote of no confidence in the current trajectory of US economic policy. The Bank of America survey found that 73% of fund managers believe “US exceptionalism” has peaked — a notable shift that helps explain the flow of capital out of American equities and into alternative stores of value like gold.
While retail investors often focus on the headline gold price, it’s worth noting the broader implications for capital markets — including small and micro-cap stocks. With capital rotating out of mega-cap tech and into inflation-resistant assets, small-cap gold miners and exploration companies could stand to benefit. These stocks, often overlooked in favor of more liquid plays, may now see increased institutional attention as gold continues to climb.
Investor sentiment is clearly shifting. Wall Street analysts have begun raising their price targets for gold, and some 42% of fund managers now say it will be the best-performing asset of 2025 — up from just 23% last month. As confidence in traditional market leaders continues to erode, gold’s appeal looks less like a trade and more like a trend.
