Tag: Natural Resources

Release – Defense Metals Updated Beneficiation Results Confirm the Production of a High Grade Flotation Concentrate at High Recovery

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on DFMTF

VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 10, 2023 /PRNewswire/ – Defense Metals Corp. (“Defense Metals” or the “Company“) (TSX-V:DEFN) (OTCQB:DFMTF) (FSE:35D) is extremely pleased to report the most recent results of the extensive comminution and beneficiation test work that has been conducted by SGS Canada Inc. in Lakefield, Ontario (“SGS“) on variability samples from the Wicheeda Rare Earth deposit.   

Figure 1: LCT-3 Flowsheet (CNW Group/Defense Metals Corp.)

Craig Taylor, CEO of Defense Metals, stated: “Our recent results shows that the Wicheeda feedstock can be crushed, ground and floated to produce a rare earth flotation product with similar or better recoveries and grades to the top producers globally. Our project has many favorable conditions for success: mineralogy, metallurgy, infrastructure, and community collaboration further supporting a path to production.”

Beneficiation Results

  • A total of 90 open-circuit flotation tests, using 1 or 2 kg of feed, were conducted on seventeen individual variability samples, various composites and blends.  Considering all open-circuit flotation tests, at a feed grade of 3% TREO (Total Rare Earth Oxide), the best fit line indicated 80% recovery to a 45% TREO concentrate. Closed circuit operations, as practised in flotation plants, can be expected to deliver higher recovery and grade.
  • In addition to the smaller-scale tests, 29 bulk flotation tests using 10 or 12 kg charges were completed to both further optimize parameters and generate 16 kg of 46% TREO content with a recovery of 78% for use as feed for hydrometallurgical tests. 
  • Very favourable results were obtained in a locked cycle test on a deposit composite giving a recovery rate of 85% of the rare earths at a concentrate grade of 50.7% TREO.    

The beneficiation tests were aimed at confirming the reagent suite and operating parameters developed in earlier testwork and in the 2020 flotation pilot plant operated on a 26t bulk sample.  The variability samples responded well to the flowsheet and the selected reagent suite and operating regimes (temperature, density). Details of the testwork are provided below.

Comminution Results

  • SMC and Bond comminution tests were complete on all variability samples. The recent work confirms, and significantly expands on, the data obtained during the 2020 pilot plant work.
  • The data indicate that grinding energy will be relatively low, in particular in the upper portions of the deposit when the softer dolomitic carbonatite (DC) material, with a Bond ball mill work index of 9 kWh/t, is the majority of the potential mill feed.
  • Autogenous or semi-autogenous grinding system followed by a ball mill will be very satisfactory for the Wicheeda comminution plant.

John Goode, Consulting Metallurgist to the Company, commented: “SGS has performed a very thorough investigation of the comminution and beneficiation characteristics of a wide variety of samples from the Wicheeda deposit. The new results are close to those reported earlier and used in previous studies.  Grinding energy requirements have been shown to be relatively low and flotation recovery and concentrate grades are high and very favourable.”

Methodology

The three key rare earth-bearing lithologies in the Wicheeda deposit are, (1) the higher-grade dolomite carbonatite (“DC“) which makes up 73% of the deposit, (2) the xenolithic carbonatite (“XE“) that represents 24% of the deposit, and (3) the syenite (“SYN“). Based on its near surface location,  the DC material is expected to comprise the majority of  the mill feed and the XE and SYN lithologies deeper in the deposit mined later. The primary rare earths minerals are monazite, bastnäsite and synchysite/parisite. 

The comminution and beneficiation tests were done at SGS by a team headed by Dr. Jing Liu, Senior Metallurgist. Test material comprised a 260 kg Master Composite and seventeen variability samples, each nominally 36 kg, prepared from drill core and representing the three main lithologies in the Wicheeda deposit.  The variability samples were selected to cover the three dominant lithologies, a range of grades (1.1% to 4.5% TREO), depths (7 m to 221 m down-hole), and locations in the deposit, (for additional results on different grades and lithologies please see news release dated October 11, 2022 and February 14, 2023).  Extensive mineralogy was completed on the samples and test products to better define the deposit and process results.

A total of 90 open-circuit flotation tests, using 1 or 2 kg of feed, were conducted on a DC composite, xenolithic and syenite composites, the individual variability samples, the Master Composite and various other composites and blends. At a feed grade of 3%, the best fit line indicates 80% recovery to a 45% TREO concentrate.  Closed circuit operations, as in a flotation plant, would deliver higher recovery and grade.  The lower-grade XE and SYN material that are expected to be encountered late in potential mine life delivered somewhat lower concentrate grades and recoveries.

Three locked-cycle tests were completed, with LCT-3 operated on 12 kg batches of a New Master Composite made up from all variability samples blended according to the lithology distribution. The flowsheet, illustrated in Figure 1, was operated over seven cycles and showed good stability. The feed grade to LCT-3 was 2.9% TREO and the concentrate assayed 50.7% TREO with a recovery of 85.4%.

Comminution test work was completed by SGS using standard Bond comminution tests and the SMC test which measures the competence of primary grinding mill feed.  The SMC results were provided to JKTech for interpretation.  The Bond ball mill work indices were 9, 11, and 13 kWh/t for the DC, XE, and SYN samples respectively.  The SMC report categorized the DC samples as being very soft and the XE samples as medium. 

Qualified Persons

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release, as it relates to the Wicheeda Rare Earth Element project, has been reviewed and approved by John Goode, P. Eng., and Kris Raffle, P.Geo., a director of the Company, both of whom are Qualified Persons as defined by National Instrument 43-101 and Mr. Goode has provided the technical information relating to metallurgy in this news release.

About the Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project

Defense Metals 100% owned, 6,759-hectare (~16,702-acre) Wicheeda Project is located approximately 80 km northeast of the city of Prince George, British Columbia; population 77,000. The Wicheeda deposit is readily accessible by all-weather gravel roads and is near infrastructure, including hydropower transmission lines and gas pipelines. The nearby Canadian National Railway and major highways allow easy access to the deep-water port facilities at Prince Rupert, the closest major North American port to Asia.

About Defense Metals Corp.

Defense Metals Corp. is a mineral exploration and development company focused on the development of its 100% owned Wicheeda Rare Earth Element project located near Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. Defense Metals Corp. trades in Canada under the symbol “DEFN” on the TSX Venture Exchange, in the United States, under “DFMTF” on the OTCQB, and in Germany on the Frankfurt Exchange under “35D”.

Defense Metals is a proud member of Discovery Group. For more information please visit:
http://www.discoverygroup.ca/

For further information, please visit www.defensemetals.com or contact:

Todd Hanas, Bluesky Corporate Communications Ltd.
Vice President, Investor Relations
Tel: (778) 994 8072
Email: todd@blueskycorp.ca

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 news release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding “Forward-Looking” Information

This news release contains “forward–looking information or statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which may include, without limitation, statements relating to completion of the PFS and the expected timelines, advancing the Wicheeda REE Project, the technical, financial and business prospects of the Company, its project and other matters. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the price of rare earth elements, the anticipated costs and expenditures, the ability to achieve its goals, that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms. Such forward-looking information reflects the Company’s views with respect to future events and is subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including the risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of exploration and metallurgical results, risks related to the inherent uncertainty of exploration and development and cost estimates, the potential for unexpected costs and expenses and those other risks filed under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. While such estimates and assumptions are considered reasonable by the management of the Company, they are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and regulatory uncertainties and risks. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions, adverse weather and climate conditions, failure to maintain or obtain all necessary government permits, approvals and authorizations, failure to maintain community acceptance (including First Nations), risks relating to unanticipated operational difficulties (including failure of equipment or processes to operate in accordance with specifications or expectations, cost escalation, unavailability of personnel, materials and equipment, government action or delays in the receipt of government approvals, industrial disturbances or other job action, and unanticipated events related to health, safety and environmental matters), risks relating to inaccurate geological, metallurgical and engineering assumptions, decrease in the price of rare earth elements, the impact of Covid-19 or other viruses and diseases on the Company’s ability to operate, an inability to predict and counteract the effects of COVID-19 on the business of the Company, including but not limited to, the effects of COVID-19 on the price of commodities, capital market conditions, restriction on labour and international travel and supply chains, loss of key employees, consultants, or directors, increase in costs, delayed results, litigation, and failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations. The Company does not undertake to update forward–looking statements or forward–looking information, except as required by law.

SOURCE Defense Metals Corp.

Comstock Inc. (LODE) – Innovating Leading Technologies for a Low Carbon Future

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, October 06, 2023

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.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Market leading yields coupled with low carbon intensities. Comstock recently achieved two significant milestones within its cellulosic fuels business. These include biofuel production yields of more than 100 gallons per dry tonne of woody biomass on a gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) basis and market-leading low carbon intensity (CI) scores of 16 or below for cellulosic ethanol and 15 for the company’s proprietary hydro-deoxygenated Bioleum oil (HBO). The CI score is measured in grams of carbon dioxide equivalent per megajoule of energy.

Differentiation provides a key competitive advantage. HBO is a proprietary drop-in bio-intermediate used in the production of sustainable aviation and renewable diesel fuels. It increases the diversity of hydro-processed, fat-based feedstock and significantly reduces carbon intensity scores from what is currently commercially achievable. For example, the carbon intensity of fossil fuels is industry-benchmarked between 80 and 95. Moreover, yields of over 100 GGE exceed the U.S. Department of Energy’s production goals of less than 75 GGE per tonne. While the higher yields are a key selling point in that they surpass existing cellulosic-derived biofuel production yields, leading biofuel refiners have indicated that lower CI scores are what significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their overall portfolios.


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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.

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*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. 

Release – Defense Metals Commences Phase 2 Infrastructure Sonic, Open Pit Geotechnical, and Exploration Target Core Drilling at Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Project

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on DFMTF

VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 3, 2023 /CNW/ – Defense Metals Corp. (“Defense Metals” or the “Company“; (TSXV: DEFN) (OTCQB: DFMTF) (FSE: 35D) is pleased to announce it has commenced Phase 2 of its planned infrastructure and open pit geotechnical drilling. Sonic overburden characterization (site infrastructure geotechnical) and diamond core drilling (open pit geotechnical and near resource exploration) is expected to be complete within 4 to 6 weeks, with results to follow. The work, with the support of the Defense Metals’ technical team and APEX Geoscience Ltd., is being completed by SRK Consulting (Canada) Inc. (“SRK“) one of the principal consultants for the preliminary feasibility study (“PFS“) regarding the Company’s Wicheeda Rare Earth Element (REE) Project located near Prince George, Canada.

Image 1: Sonic Infrastructure Geotechnical Drilling Underway Within WSF Area (CNW Group/Defense Metals Corp.)
Image 2: Geotechnical Drill Core from Hole WI23-80 Wicheeda REE Deposit Open Pit Highwall (CNW Group/Defense Metals Corp.)

Craig Taylor, CEO of Defense Metals, commented:

“We are pleased to commence Phase 2 geotechnical investigations. This work will provide critical inputs for the ongoing PFS study, and in the case of exploration targets have the potential to expand resources. The Company’s technical teams and principal Engineering contractors continue to push forward keeping us on track for a planned PFS completion by the end of Q2 2024.” 

As previously reported (see Defense Metals news release dated August 16, 2023) the SRK geotechnical investigation includes the following scopes:

  • Geotechnical engineering (waste rock, tailings, contact water pond, and site infrastructure geotechnical investigation),
  • Tailings alternative assessment prior to advancing into PFS-level design of a preferred alternative, and
  • Geochemical characterization (to support mine planning/waste management and to develop preliminary water chemistry predictions for the main mine facilities).

Currently two rigs, sonic and core drills, are operating at the Project, with sonic operations focused on overburden and bedrock characterization within the potential waste rock storage (WSF) footprint (see Image 1), and geotechnical core drilling underway with the east highwall of the proposed open pit (see Image 2).

With WSF drilling nearing completion, sonic operations are expected to transition to the proposed contact water pond (CWP), and crusher and conveyor footprints, followed by tailing storage facility (TSF) and TSF alternative geotechnical investigations.

In pit geotechnical core drilling will progress from current drilling on the east highwall, followed by south, north, and west pit walls. Drilling into the south pit wall is expected to collar in REE mineralized dolomite carbonatite. In addition, geotechnical core drilling of the west pit wall is co-purposed with testing of a high priority ground radiometric geophysical anomaly with the potential to represent undiscovered carbonatite body (see Defense Metals’ news release dated September 5, 2023).

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release as it relates to the Wicheeda REE Project has been reviewed and approved by Kristopher J. Raffle, P.Geo. (B.C.), Principal and Consultant of APEX Geoscience Ltd. of Edmonton, Alberta, who is a director of Defense Metals and a “Qualified Person” as defined in NI 43-101. 

About the Wicheeda REE Property

Defense Metals 100% owned, 6,759-hectare (~16,702-acre) Wicheeda Project is located approximately 80 km northeast of the city of Prince George, British Columbia; population 77,000. The Wicheeda REE Project is readily accessible by all-weather gravel roads and is near infrastructure, including hydro power transmission lines and gas pipelines. The nearby Canadian National Railway and major highways allow easy access to the port facilities at Prince Rupert, the closest major North American port to Asia.

About Defense Metals Corp.

Defense Metals Corp. is a mineral exploration and development company focused on the development of its 100% owned Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Deposit located near Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. Defense Metals Corp. trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol “DEFN”, in the United States, trading symbol “DFMTF” on the OTCQB and in Germany on the Frankfurt Exchange under “35D”.

Defense Metals is a proud member of Discovery Group. For more information please visit: http://www.discoverygroup.ca/

For further information, please visit www.defensemetals.com or contact:

Todd Hanas, Bluesky Corporate Communications Ltd.
Vice President, Investor Relations
Tel: (778) 994 8072
Email: todd@blueskycorp.ca

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 news release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding “Forward-Looking” Information

This news release contains “forward‐looking information or statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which may include, without limitation, statements relating to advancing the Wicheeda REE Project, the expected completion of the PFS and the expected timeline, the completion and expected timelines for sonic and geotechnical drilling and the expected results and outcomes (including the potential for undiscovered carbonatite), the technical, financial and business prospects of the Company, its project and other matters. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the price of rare earth elements, the anticipated costs and expenditures, accuracy of assay results, performance of available laboratory and other related services, future operating costs, interpretation of geological and metallurgical data, the ability to achieve its goals, that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms. Such forward-looking information reflects the Company’s views with respect to future events and is subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including the risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of exploration and metallurgical results, risks related to the inherent uncertainty of exploration, metallurgy and development and cost estimates, the potential for unexpected costs and expenses and those other risks filed under the Company’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca. While such estimates and assumptions are considered reasonable by the management of the Company, they are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and regulatory uncertainties and risks. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions, adverse weather and climate conditions, failure to maintain or obtain all necessary government permits, approvals and authorizations, failure to maintain community acceptance (including First Nations), risks relating to unanticipated operational difficulties (including failure of equipment or processes to operate in accordance with specifications or expectations, cost escalation, unavailability of personnel, materials and equipment, government action or delays in the receipt of government approvals, industrial disturbances or other job action, and unanticipated events related to health, safety and environmental matters), risks relating to inaccurate geological, metallurgical and engineering assumptions, decrease in the price of rare earth elements, the impact of Covid-19 or other viruses and diseases on the Company’s ability to operate, an inability to predict and counteract the effects of COVID-19 and other viruses and diseases on the business of the Company, the price of commodities, capital market conditions, restriction on labour and international travel and supply chains, loss of key employees, consultants, or directors, increase in costs, delayed results, litigation, and failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations. The Company does not undertake to update forward‐looking statements or forward‐looking information, except as required by law.

SOURCE Defense Metals Corp.

Labrador Gold Corp. (NKOSF) – Drilling to Resume Next Week

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Tuesday, October 03, 2023

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.

The final stretch. Drilling at Labrador Gold’s 100%-owned Kingsway gold project is targeting the Appleton Fault over a 12-kilometer strike length. The drilling is part of the company’s ongoing 100,000-meter diamond drilling program of which 83,000 meters of drilling has been completed. The company is beginning to receive assays back from the laboratory for samples from approximately 8,877 meters of core which will be released in batches once they have been interpreted. With ~C$11.5 million in cash, Labrador Gold is well-funded to complete the remaining 17,000 meters of planned drilling.

Drilling resumes next week. Labrador Gold expects to resume drilling next week with three rigs. Drilling will target the Gap Zone between the Big Vein and Pristine targets, the Knobby Occurrence, and the Golden Glove target. Permits have been received to drill in the Gap Zone and in the area south of the Big Vein target to the southern boundary of the property which encompasses the Knobby Occurrence and Golden Glove. 


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*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. 

Release – Aurania Provides Update And Directors Receive Options In Lieu Of Fees

Posted on by aweinsoff@channelchek.com

Research News and Market Data on AUIAF

Aurania Resources Ltd. (TSXV: ARU; OTCQB: AUIAF; Frankfurt: 20Q) (“Aurania” or the “Company”) provides a brief update and announces that its directors received their quarterly director fees in the form of stock options in lieu of cash for the period ended September 30th (see press release dated April 12, 2023).

On September 29, 2023, each director was granted 26,800 stock options at an exercise price of $0.235 in lieu of their director fees for Q3 2023. An aggregate of 107,200 stock options were granted. The stock options will be exercisable for three years and will vest on September 29, 2023.  The Company will grant stock options equivalent in fair value to the director fees forfeited each quarter during 2023, at an exercise price of one cent above the closing price of Aurania’s shares the day prior to the grant and exercisable at any time for a period of three years following the date of issuance.

Update on Ecuador and France

The next President of Ecuador will be determined in a run-off election on October 15.  The two candidates, Luisa Gonzalez (UNES – Correa’s party) and Daniel Noboa (ADN – centrist, business-aligned) are expected to be supportive of responsible mining.  Gonzalez was in first place with 34% of the votes on August 20th, and Daniel Noboa held 24% of the votes at that time. The winning candidate will be in power until the next president is elected in Ecuador’s regularly scheduled election in the first half of 2025.  After the first-round results, Noboa emerges as the candidate with the most promising prospects for the presidency in the upcoming second round. This is because González’s room for growth on her 34 percent showing remains limited to those supportive of Correa’s former Socialist government (2007-2017).  Noboa, by contrast, is positioned to secure substantial backing from voters who had initially supported a variety of “anti-Correísmo” candidates.  At time of writing, Noboa is ahead in the polls, from 5-8%.  He has already met with the Ecuador Chamber of Mines, of which Aurania is a member, and recognizes the importance of mining to the Ecuador economy.  Whomever wins the election will take office in December.

In the meantime, Aurania’s CSR team continues to work with local communities in Ecuador to advance various social programs and initiatives within the areas of the Company’s key targets, strengthening the bonds with the communities and improving the social license the Company has. The management team’s focus is to work on those initiatives with the higher potential to create value for our shareholders in Ecuador and France, where the applications for mineral exploration permits, announced in July 2023, are being processed. The Company will report on those activities as new developments occur.

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 – Cutucú Project, is located in the Jurassic Metallogenic Belt in the eastern foothills of the Andes mountain range of southeastern Ecuador.

Click here to view the full press release dated October 2, 2023 on Aurania’s website including contact details and forward-looking statements.

Century Lithium Corp. (CYDVF) – Time to Step Up?

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, September 29, 2023

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.

Near-term weakness presents an opportunity. Lithium stocks have been weighed down by a decline in lithium spot prices this year driven mainly by factors in China. The recent price of battery grade lithium carbonate was ~US$23,300 per tonne. We think it presents an opportunity for longer-term investors based on favorable intermediate and long-term lithium fundamentals supported by growth in the North American electric vehicle market. While commodity spot prices tend to be volatile, long-term supply contracts will likely account for market volume growth as electric vehicle industry participants seek to secure their own lithium sources.

North American lithium projects have gained traction. With critical minerals supplies subject to geopolitical risk, lithium projects in North America benefit from a variety of funding options as battery manufacturers and car makers seek to secure supplies to de-risk their own long-term objectives. General Motors’ investment and offtake agreement with Lithium Americas to advance the Thacker Pass lithium project in Nevada validates the commercial potential of similar projects. Another example is the U.S. Dept. of Energy’s commitment to lend up to US$700 million to develop Ioneer’s Rhyolite Ridge project in Nevada coupled with US$490 million of conditional financing from Sibanye-Stillwater and binding offtake agreements with Ford, Toyota/Panasonic, and EcoPro.


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*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. 

Haynes International (HAYN) – Lowering Near-Term Estimates; Outlook Remains Favorable

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Monday, September 25, 2023

Haynes International, Inc. is a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of technologically advanced, nickel and cobalt-based high-performance alloys, primarily for use in the aerospace, industrial gas turbine and chemical processing industries.

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.

Updating estimates. We have lowered our fiscal year 2023 EBITDA and EPS estimates to $81.2 million and $3.25 per share from $82.0 million and $3.30 per share. Our estimates reflect lower gross margins during the September quarter due to the negative impact of raw material fluctuations, primarily for nickel and cobalt. We have reduced our 2024 EBITDA and EPS estimates to $104.3 million and $4.50 per share from $106.8 million and $4.65. Our revised 2024 estimates reflect seasonality and more conservative sales volume growth assumptions albeit at modestly higher margins. The first quarter of each fiscal year is typically Haynes’ lowest revenue and earnings quarter due in part to holidays and planned maintenance.

Strong order backlog. Orders during the June quarter resulted in a record backlog of $468.1 million and represented a 4.8% increase compared to the prior quarter and a 38.4% increase on a year-over-year basis. Backlog pounds increased 3.2% during the third quarter to approximately 14.6 million pounds and increased 20.7% compared to the prior year period driven by strong demand in the aerospace and industrial gas turbine markets. In our view, the strong order book is indicative of the company’s strong competitive position and favorable outlook.


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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. 

Newrange Gold (NRGOF) – Advancing Toward the Creation of Pinnacle Silver & Gold Corp.

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, September 20, 2023

Newrange is focused on district-scale exploration for precious metals in the prolific Red Lake District of northwestern Ontario. The past-producing high-grade Argosy Gold Mine is open to depth, while the adjacent North Birch Project offers additional blue-sky potential. Focused on developing shareholder value through exploration and development of key projects, the Company is committed to building sustainable value for all stakeholders. Further information can be found on our website at www.newrangegold.com .

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.

Americas-focused silver-gold exploration company. In May,Newrange executed a binding Scheme Implementation Deed (SID) to acquire 100% of Mithril Resources Limited (ASX: MTH) in a reverse takeover (RTO). Pending approval by the TSX Venture Exchange, the resulting company will be named Pinnacle Silver & Gold Corp. and will be listed on the TSX Venture exchange under the symbol “PINN.” The transaction is subject to various conditions, including approval by Newrange and Mithril shareholders and by various governmental and regulatory bodies. The transaction is expected to close following the Newrange and Mithril shareholder meetings on October 5th and October 13th, respectively. Mithril would then be delisted from the ASX exchange.

Flagship project. The Copalquin gold-silver project is in Durango State, Mexico and covers an entire mining district containing several dozen historic gold and silver mines and workings. The district is within the Sierra Madre Gold-Silver Trend which extends north-south along the western side of Mexico and hosts many world-class gold and silver deposits. Based on a recent NI 43-101 compliant technical report, the El Refugio target area is estimated to contain indicated resources of 121,000 ounces of gold and 2,538,000 ounces of silver and inferred resources of 252,000 ounces of gold and 8,414,000 ounces of silver.


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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 Inc. (LODE) – Non-Core Asset Sales Provide Funds for Reinvestment in Growth Businesses

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Friday, September 15, 2023

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.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Sale of battery recycling facility. Comstock’s LINICO subsidiary sold its battery recycling facility in the Tahoe Reno Industrial Center and associated assets to American Battery Technology Company (OTCQX: ABML) for $27 million comprised of cash and ABML shares. LINICO had leased the facility with an option to purchase for $15.25 million, of which $3.25 million was paid. Comstock made the remaining $12.0 million payment to Aqua Metals, Inc. (Nasdaq: AQMS) to purchase the facility prior to closing its transaction with ABML. American Battery Technology Company initiated a 1-for-15 reverse split of its common stock effective at 9:00 am ET on September 11, 2023.   

Sale of American Battery Technology Company shares. Comstock recently sold its 9,076,923 ABML common shares for approximately $5.5 million. Related to the sale of the battery recycling business, Comstock has now generated total and net cash proceeds of $26.5 million and $14.5 million, respectively, representing a net gain on the sale of ~$7 million that will be reflected in the company’s third quarter financial statements. American Battery Technology Company will make a final payment of $0.5 million in cash during the fourth quarter of 2023.


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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. 

Carbon Credit Firm DevvStream To Go Public In $212M SPAC Merger

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

DevvStream Holdings, a leading developer of carbon offset projects and associated credit streams, has signed a definitive agreement to go public through a merger with special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) Focus Impact Acquisition Corp.

The combined company will be named DevvStream Corp. and is expected to list on the Nasdaq under ticker “DEVS”. The deal values DevvStream at an implied $212.8 million enterprise value.

Founded in 2021, Vancouver-based DevvStream partners with corporations and governments on sustainability initiatives. It brings projects generating carbon credits to market by co-investing or providing technical services in exchange for a share of long-term credit streams.

This capital-light model requires little upfront investment for participation in the fast-growing carbon markets. DevvStream estimates its current portfolio will generate $13 million in net revenue in 2024 and $55 million in 2025 as projects are expanded.

DevvStream participates in both regulated compliance markets and the rapidly expanding voluntary carbon credit market. The voluntary market hit $2 billion in 2022 but could reach up to $250 billion by 2030 according to estimates.

The merger will provide further expansion capital to DevvStream as it scales its portfolio of emissions-reducing projects. Focus Impact raised $172.5 million in its May 2021 IPO into a trust that will go to the combined company after redemptions.

According to DevvStream CEO Sunny Trinh, “Entering into a definitive agreement to merge with Focus Impact is a significant step towards accelerating the growth of our differentiated technology-based approach to carbon markets.”

He added that enhancing transparency and reliability in voluntary markets in particular can help drive participation and meaningful emissions reductions.

Focus Impact CEO Carl Stanton said the proposed merger “presents a significant opportunity to create substantial value for our shareholders.” He cited DevvStream’s systematic approach to carbon project development and blockchain-enabled tracking.

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2023, subject to shareholder approvals and other customary closing conditions. Upon completion, DevvStream will be listed on the Nasdaq under ticker “DEVS”.

With global momentum building around carbon markets and climate action, the merger comes at an opportune time. DevvStream is now poised to capitalize on surging demand as both corporations and governments seek to curb emissions.

Defense Metals Corp. (DFMTF) – Wicheeda REE Mineral Resource Estimate Upgraded and Expanded

Posted on by cpereira@noblefcm.com


Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Defense Metals Corp. is a mineral exploration and development company focused on the acquisition, exploration and development of mineral deposits containing metals and elements commonly used in the electric power market, defense industry, national security sector and in the production of green energy technologies, such as, rare earths magnets used in wind turbines and in permanent magnet motors for electric vehicles. Defense Metals owns 100% of the Wicheeda Rare Earth Element Property located near Prince George, British Columbia, Canada. Defense Metals Corp. trades in Canada under the symbol “DEFN” on the TSX Venture Exchange, in the United States, under “DFMTF” on the OTCQB and in Germany on the Frankfurt Exchange under “35D”.

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.

Mineral resource estimate. Defense Metals released results from its updated mineral resource estimate (MRE) for the Wicheeda Rare Earth Element (REE) Project. The 2023 mineral resource estimate is based on an updated geological model incorporating the results from 10,350 meters of drilling within 45 holes drilled by Defense Metals during 2021 and 2022.

Larger and higher-quality resource base. The 2023 resource estimate includes a 6.4 million tonne measured mineral resource averaging 2.86% total rare earth oxide (TREO), a 27.8 million tonne indicated mineral resource averaging 1.84% TREO, and an 11.1 million tonne inferred mineral resource averaging 1.02% TREO. The 2023 mineral resource estimate represents an 18.2% increase in TREO and a 31.3% in tonnage compared to the 2021 MRE. Total measured and indicated mineral resources of 34.2 million tonnes, averaging 2.02% TREO is a significant upgrade compared to the previous estimate and can be included in the mine plan for the preliminary feasibility study that is expected to be completed in the first half of 2024.


Get the Full Report

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. 

Uranium Bull Run Continues with Prices Hitting New Highs

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Uranium prices have entered a new bull market in 2023, surging 20% so far this year. The nuclear fuel recently hit $60 per pound for the first time in over a decade. This milestone comes on the back of rosier demand forecasts from the World Nuclear Association (WNA) and vastly outperforms other metals markets.

The WNA recently released its biennial report at the World Nuclear Symposium in London. The report provides insights into future uranium demand, underscoring the role nuclear power will play in the global energy transition. It predicts world reactor requirements for uranium will reach almost 130,000 tonnes by 2040, up from 65,650 tonnes in 2023.

Even the WNA’s most conservative projection of 87,000 tonnes in 2040 represents robust demand growth. This is driven by an expected expansion of nuclear capacity from 391 gigawatts currently to 686 gigawatts by 2040 under its base case scenario. The bulk of new reactors will be located in China, which is aggressively decarbonizing by replacing coal plants with nuclear.

China has 23 reactors under construction, 23 more planned, and 168 proposed to add to its existing fleet of 53 reactors. The WNA report increased its overall uranium demand growth projections to 4.1% annually through 2040, up from 3.1% in its 2021 forecast.

This surging demand presents a huge opportunity for growth in the uranium mining sector. As the market transitions from oversupply to undersupply, uranium companies are poised to benefit tremendously. Their revenues, earnings, and valuations could rapidly improve as prices rise. Many junior miners could become acquisition targets for larger producers looking to add resources.

Take a moment to take a look at more uranium and vanadium and mining companies by viewing Michael Heim’s coverage list.

A key driver of demand is the accelerated adoption of small modular reactors (SMRs). These compact, modular designs allow nuclear plants to be constructed faster and cheaper. The WNA sees SMRs reaching 31 gigawatts of installed capacity by 2040, significantly boosting uranium demand. However, forecasts remain relatively conservative given SMRs’ potential applications in shipping, data centers, and other sectors.

According to BMO Capital Markets, SMRs could play a pivotal role in powering remote mines looking to replace diesel generators with cleaner energy solutions. With ample space and ideal climates, mines are adding solar and wind power. But in colder regions like Canada, SMRs may be the only viable zero-carbon option.

In much the same way platinum miners are testing hydrogen trucks onsite, uranium producers could pioneer SMR installations at operations. This would create new demand from uranium miners themselves. BMO estimates SMR capacity could reach 58 gigawatts by 2030, or around 10% of total nuclear generation.

While secondary supplies like reprocessed fuel and stockpiles have bridged the supply-demand gap for decades, the WNA report acknowledges these inventories are diminishing. With roughly 3.7 years of reactor requirements in current stockpiles, the WNA projects secondary supplies will fall from 11-14% of demand now to just 4-11% by 2050.

This decline underscores the need for new mine supply to meet growing reactor demand in the long run. With secondary sources drying up, uranium prices must rise to incentivize investment in expansion and new projects. The uranium bull run still appears to be in its early innings, as rosier demand forecasts confront constrained mine supply. Nuclear energy’s role in global decarbonization efforts continues to expand, brightening the outlook for uranium markets and uranium mining companies.

Apple Goes Green: Tech Giant Unveils First Carbon Neutral Lineup

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Apple just recently announced its first carbon neutral products – the new Apple Watch lineup. This achievement comes from innovations across Apple’s global supply chain over years to dramatically reduce emissions. It’s a major milestone toward Apple’s 2030 goal to make all products carbon neutral.

To become carbon neutral, Apple steeply cut watch emissions first via clean energy, recycled materials, and low-emission transportation. Any remaining emissions are addressed with high-quality carbon credits from nature-based projects like forests.

This shift demonstrates how companies can decarbonize operations and products through renewable electricity, material innovation, and carbon removal. If adopted widely, these strategies can significantly benefit the environment.

Apple’s progress was enabled by large investments in wind and solar energy. Their actions helped create over 15 gigawatts of new clean power. Scaling renewable energy is crucial for the transition away from fossil fuels.

Take a moment to look at more natural resources and mining companies by viewing Mark Reichman’s coverage list.

The company also pioneered using recycled metals and fibers in devices. This reduces the need for carbon-intensive mining and materials manufacturing. Broad adoption would lessen impacts on natural resources.

Additionally, Apple funded carbon removal through forest restoration. This supports nature-based solutions to sequester CO2. The climate impact could grow exponentially if more firms financed conservation projects.

In summary, Apple’s carbon neutral product milestone highlights the environmental promise of renewable energy, the circular economy, and carbon removal. It demonstrates the potential for these strategies to transform manufacturing, conserve natural resources, and fight climate change.