Morning Chatter!
PRE-OPEN
Futures are higher as cautious investors looked ahead to U.S. inflation data due later in the week to infer the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy stance. Investors were keenly awaiting the U.S. Consumer Price Index data due on Wednesday, while in Canada, factory sales and wholesale trade data for the month of November were also set to release on the same day. Meanwhile, U.S. stock index futures rose, supported by falling Treasury yields. Separately, European shares recouped some losses following a report that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump might opt to impose gradual tariff hikes. In Asia, Japan’s Nikkei slumped as investors shed chip stocks and fretted about a possible Bank of Japan interest rate hike. Chinese stocks advanced after Beijing pledged more measures to bolster fragile markets and economic growth. In commodities, gold prices rose, supported by a weaker U.S. dollar. Oil prices eased slightly, with traders focusing on the impact of new U.S. sanctions on Russian oil exports.
KWG Resources Inc. (CSE: CACR) (CSE: CACR.A), which carries on business as The Canadian Chrome Company (“CCC“, “KWG” or the “Company“) has been enrolled into the membership of the USA Defense Industrial Base Consortium which fosters collaboration between Government, Industry, and Academia to build a robust, resilient defense industrial base. All DIBC members are eligible for DPA (Defense Production Act) funding.
DIBC enables rapid research, access to commercial solutions for defense requirements, and innovations from industry, academia, and non-traditional agencies. Strategic and Critical materials, such as chromium, are considered to be critical to the defense industrial base.
Chromium Development Options previously prepared:
In 2009 and 2010, CCC staked 1,685 claims along what the Company believes to be the most suitable terrain for constructing transportation and electrification systems through the James Bay Lowlands from Nakina, Ontario to the Company’s properties in the Ring of Fire, a distance of 330 kilometers. It then conducted a surveying and mineral and soil testing program to explore for minerals and to assess the prospects for the engineering and construction of a railroad or other transportation facility along that route. CCC identified deposits of aggregate along the route and made applications under the Aggregates Act (Ontario) for 32 aggregate extraction permits to supply from local sources the aggregate needed for construction of the road bed and other transportation and electrification facilities. Then, in 2021, the Company and CCC engaged Cormorant Utilities and Rail-Veyor Technologies to prepare Engineering Proposals for the construction of transportation and utility systems along the route of the proposed Utility Corridor to connect the Ring of Fire area to the trans-Canada transportation systems and the Ontario power grid which currently run through Nakina, Ontario (near Aroland). The proposals include electrification systems connecting from the Utility Corridor to several First Nations communities in the James Bay Lowlands in the Ring of Fire area and, accordingly, would connect those communities to the Ontario power grid and the trans-Canada transportation systems. These, plus the aggregate permit sites, are indicated on the plan below. The Northern Road Link Study Area, and those for the Webequie Supply Road and the Marten Falls Community Access Road are also indicated on the plan.
KWG has also acquired intellectual property interests, including a method for the direct reduction of chromite to metalized iron and chrome using natural gas. KWG subsidiary Muketi Metallurgical LP has acquired two chromite-refining patents in Canada and one in each of the USA, South Africa and Kazakhstan, and is prosecuting an application in Turkey. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.
Barrick Gold Corp. (TSX: ABX) confirmed it had suspended operations in Mali and that the government had moved gold stock from the miner’s Loulo-Gounkoto site to a bank. “As a result, Barrick has regrettably initiated the temporary suspension of operations while it continues to work towards a resolution,” it said in a statement. Barrick did not say what amount of gold had been seized.
Barksdale Resources Corp. (TSXV: BRO) (OTCQX: BRKCF) announces that it is seeking TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV“) acceptance for an extension of the maturity date and a reduction of the conversion price of the aggregate $1,500,000 principal amount of the secured convertible debentures (“Debentures“) held by Delbrook Capital Advisors Inc. (“Delbrook“) that were originally issued on January 25, 2022. Barksdale is also seeking TSXV acceptance to issue an aggregate of 8,000,000 detachable common share purchase warrants (the “New Warrants“) to Delbrook as the previously issued 2,777,777 common share purchase warrants held by Delbrook expired unexercised on December 31, 2024.
The Debentures bear interest at a rate of 10% per annum and are convertible into common shares of the Company (the “Shares“). The Company is seeking approval of the TSXV to, among other things, reduce the conversion price of the Debentures from $0.55 to $0.18 pers Share and extend the maturity date to December 31, 2025 (the “Amendments“). In connection with Delbrook agreeing to the Amendments, the Company will also issue the New Warrants to Delbrook in connection with the Amendments. Each New Warrant shall entitle the holder to acquire one Share at a price of $0.18 per Share until December 31, 2025. Additionally, Delbrook and the Company have agreed, subject to the receipt of corporate and regulatory approvals, including acceptance by the TSXV, to a securities-for-debt settlement (the “Interest Debt Settlement“), pursuant to which the interest accrued under the Debentures in the aggregate amount of $151,643.84 will be satisfied by the issuance of 1,045,819 units of the Company (the “Units“, and each, a “Unit“) at a deemed price of $0.145 per Unit. Each Unit shall consist of one Share and one-half of one Share purchase warrant (the “Warrants“), with each whole Warrant entitling the holder to acquire one additional Share at an exercise price of $0.18 per Share for a period of three (3) years from the date of issuance. Any subsequent interest accrued under the Debentures after December 31, 2024 shall be payable in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Debentures and the policies of the TSXV. To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.
BrandPilot AI Inc., (CSE: BPAI) (OTCQB: BPAIF) a leading innovator in AI-driven adtech solutions, proudly announces that CEO Brandon Mina has been accepted into the Forbes Technology Council, an exclusive invitation-only community for top technology executives recognized for their accomplishments in innovation, business growth, and thought leadership. Additionally, Mina has also been invited to join the Forbes Legacy Pass, an exclusive program designed to support and spotlight leaders and creators shaping the future of the Web 3.0 and Crypto in the decentralized digital economy.
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Electric Metals (USA) Limited (TSXV: EML)(OTCQB:EMUSF) announce a 30-day extension to close a second and final tranche of the Company’s non-brokered private placement (the “Offering“) to issue a maximum of 10,000,000 common shares of the Company (a “Share“) at a price of CAD$0.10 per Share for maximum gross proceeds of CAD$1,000,000 as announced on October 31, 2024.
The final closing and filing acceptance of all documentation required by the TSX Venture Exchange in respect of the Offering is expected to occur on or before February 12th, 2025.
As announced on December 13, 2024, the Company closed the first tranche of the Offering, issuing an aggregate of 5,837,000 common shares (“the “Shares“) at $0.10 per share for gross proceeds of C$583,700. View the original press release on accesswire.com
Enbridge Inc. (TSX: ENB) An Illinois federal judge on Monday dismissed a lawsuit accusing the pipeline operator of blocking a rival from building a terminal to ship Canadian crude oil by barge from the Chicago area to refineries in the Midwest and the Gulf of Mexico. U.S. District Judge April Perry in Chicago ruled that plaintiff Ducere had failed to adequately allege that Enbridge was violating antitrust laws. The lawsuit, filed in February, said Enbridge illegally monopolized transportation services and refused to deal with Ducere. An earlier version of the lawsuit named Exxon as a defendant, but Ducere subsequently dropped the company in an amended complaint. In a statement, Enbridge said it welcomed the court’s order.
Infinitum Copper Corp. (TSXV: INFI) (OTCQB: INUMF) announce the appointment of Mr. Steve R. McMullan to its board of directors and the resignation of Mr. Mahendra Naik as a director of the Company.
M. McMullan has world-wide experience in mineral exploration and is a Registered Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo) and Qualified Person under NI43-101 definition.
The board wishes to thank Mr. Naik for his valuable contribution to the company over many years and wish him well with his future endeavours.
Newcore Gold Ltd. (TSXV: NCAU, OTCQX: NCAUF) announce additional drill results from the 10,000-metre drill program underway at the Company’s 100% owned Enchi Gold Project (“Enchi” or the “Project”) in Ghana. Reverse Circulation (“RC”) drilling at the Boin Gold Deposit (“Boin”) continues to intersect wide zones of gold mineralization with hole KBRC316 intersecting 0.97 grams per tonne gold (“g/t Au”) over 96.0 metres (“m”) from 100 m, including 2.05 g/t Au over 10.0 m from 163 m. Drilling continues to encounter higher-grade mineralization with hole KBRC313 intersecting 2.50 g/t Au over 17.0 m from 132 m, within a broader interval of 1.06 g/t Au over 81.0 m from 127 m.
Drilling is underway at Enchi as part of the resource growth and infill program designed to convert Inferred Resources to Indicated. All drill holes to date as part of the 2024 – 2025 drill program have intersected gold mineralization, continuing to prove out the continuity of gold mineralization and potential for future resource growth across the Project, including at Boin.
Highlights from Drilling at the Boin Gold Deposit at Enchi
Drilling continues to encounter wide zones of higher-grade gold mineralization within the sulphide mineralization.
Hole KBRC316 intersected 0.97 g/t Au over 96.0 m from 100 m, including 2.05 g/t Au over 10.0 m from 163 m.
Hole KBRC313 intersected 1.06 g/t Au over 81.0 m from 127 m, including 2.50 g/t Au over 17.0 m from 132 m and 2.15 g/t Au over 7.0 m from 184 m.
Hole KBRC314 intersected 0.86 g/t Au over 62.0 m from 161 m, including 2.24 g/t Au over 9.0 m from 210 m.
Hole KBRC317 intersected 0.70 g/t Au over 73.0 m from 109 m and 1.52 g/t Au over 7.0 m from 192 m.
Drilling continues to prove out the continuity of gold mineralization and potential for resource growth at Enchi.
All drill results released to date as part of the 2024 – 2025 drill program have intersected gold mineralization.
Luke Alexander, President and CEO of Newcore stated, “The results from the drill program underway at Enchi continue to show strong continuity of gold mineralization at the Boin Gold Deposit along with wide zones of higher-grade gold mineralization within the sulphide mineralization. We believe that the results achieved to date with the current drill program underscore the potential to prove up the confidence of the existing resources at Enchi which is an important next step in advancing our Enchi Gold Project towards a Pre-Feasibility Study. We look forward to an exciting year-ahead as we continue to advance the development of our Enchi Gold Project in Ghana.”
This release reports results for 10 RC holes totalling 2,060 m (KBRC309A to KBRC318) targeting the Boin Gold Deposit, with all holes intersecting gold mineralization. A total of 5,458 metres in 31 holes have been reported as part of the ongoing 2024 – 2025 drill program at Enchi. www.newcoregold.com
NioBay Metals Inc. (TSXV: NBY) (OTCQB: NBYCF) announce the successful results of metallurgical testing conducted by SGS on concentrate from the James Bay niobium project (the “Project”).
In order to fully explore the potential of the Project, which initially focused on ferroniobium production, the Company commissioned SGS to perform metallurgical tests on the concentrate derived from ore samples collected during the drilling phase of the Project. On December 20, 2024, NioBay received a report detailing the production of Ammonium Niobium Oxalate (ANO), which is available on our website.
Key Highlights of the Test Program
A flotation concentrate sample, provided by the SGS Mineral Processing team, served as feedstock for the metallurgical test program. The sample assayed 60.2% Nb₂O₅ (42.1% niobium).
The test program compared two processes for generating a pregnant leach solution (PLS) rich in niobium with minimal impurities:
Strong acid agitated baking followed by water leaching.
Hydrofluoric acid leaching.
Hydrofluoric acid leaching consistently achieved niobium dissolution in excess of 95% when testing acid dosages ranging from 90% to 130% of the stoichiometric requirement of hydrofluoric acid for a selection of prevalent elements (Nb, Ti, Si, and Fe).
The strip liquor was then added to a pre-measured dosage of 100% of the stoichiometric requirement of ammonium hydroxide for Nb, Ti, and Fe at 60°C for two hours in a “reverse precipitation” test to precipitate approximately 90% of the dissolved niobium with very low levels of impurity co-precipitation. This test produced a residue assaying at 59.4% Nb.
In conclusion, production of Ammonium Niobium Oxalate (ANO) was completed.
The program demonstrated a reliable flowsheet incorporating hydrofluoric acid leaching, solvent extraction using 1-octanol, and precipitation with ammonium hydroxide.
Message from the President of NioBay Metals
“We are pleased that the SGS results confirm that mineralization from the James Bay Niobium Project can also be processed to produce high-purity niobium,” said Jean-Sébastien David, President of NioBay.
“Our primary focus has always been on the steel mill market through ferroniobium production. However, these tests reveal an exciting opportunity to target markets that demand high-purity niobium.” www.niobaymetals.com
Osisko Metals Incorporated (TSXV: OM, OTCQX: OMZNF) welcome the participation of the Government of Quebec in its Gaspé Copper Project, located next to the Town of Murdochville in the Gaspé Peninsula, on the traditional territory of the Mi’gmaq First Nation of Gespe’gewa’gi.
The Government of Quebec will lead a pilot project to create a committee that seeks to maximize the economic benefits of the Gaspé Copper Project. The committee will be overseen by the Ministère des Ressources naturelles et des Forêts (Quebec Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests) and aims to optimize socio-economic benefits in the Gaspé Peninsula by ensuring strong collaboration with the business community throughout the project development process.
The announcement was made today in Murdochville during a press conference by Ms. Maïté Blanchette Vézina, Minister of Natural Resources and Forests and Minister Responsible for the Bas-Saint-Laurent Region and the Gaspésie−Îles-de-la-Madeleine Region, along with Mr. Stéphane Sainte-Croix, MNA for Gaspé, and local representatives. Mr. Robert Wares, CEO of Osisko Metals, also participated in the press conference.
Minister Maïté Blanchette Vézina said, “I am very proud of the creation of this maximization committee, which will act as a lever for cooperation and transparency in this project. This approach demonstrates our government’s desire to develop mining activities harmoniously, as evidenced by the modernization of the Mining Act. Copper and its derivatives are minerals we need to be interested in for our energy transition, and completing this mining project could ultimately help secure our supplies. I want to thank all the stakeholders in advance for participating in the committee.”
Pan American Energy Corp. (CSE: PNRG | OTCQB: PAANF | FRA: SS60) announce that it has closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement for gross proceeds of C$400,000 (the “Offering“).
Pursuant to the Offering, the Company issued 5,000,000 units of the Company (each, a “Unit“) at a price of C$0.08 per Unit, with each Unit being comprised of one common share in the capital of the Company (a “Share“) and one Share purchase warrant of the Company entitling the holder to acquire one Share (each, a “Warrant Share“) at a price of C$0.12 per Warrant Share until January 13, 2026. The Company intends to use the net proceeds raised from the Offering for general working capital purposes. All securities issued in the Offering are subject to a statutory four month and one day hold period in accordance with applicable securities laws expiring on May 14, 2025.
The Company also announces that it no longer intends to proceed with the previously announced settlement of C$209,282.88 of debt through the issuance of 2,616,036 Units of the Company at the current time.
This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in the United States. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act“) or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.
Pan Global Resources Inc. (TSXV: PGZ) (OTCQX: PGZFF) (FRA: 2EU) announced details of the 2025 exploration programs at the Company’s 100%-owned Escacena and Cármenes Projects in Spain.
Extensive field exploration over the past year identified multiple drill targets at both the flagship Escacena Project in Andalucia and the highly prospective Cármenes Project north of León in northern Spain. The 2025 drilling campaign has already commenced and is ramping up to three drill rigs, including drilling of five new previously untested targets at Escacena and two anomalies at Cármenes. The campaign also aims to further delineate the extent of the La Romana deposit ahead of a maiden mineral resource estimate. This drill program will be completed by mid-2025.
“Of the more than 15 geophysical and geochemical anomalies at the target-rich Escacena Project, Pan Global’s technical team has prioritized five compelling targets with coincident multi-indicators of mineralization for immediate drilling. In addition, the maiden drill programs at the Providencia and Profunda targets at Cármenes will commence this month. With the types of ore deposits being targeted typically occurring in clusters, the new discovery potential at both Escacena and Cármenes is high,” said Pan Global President and CEO Tim Moody.
“At the La Romana copper-tin-silver deposit, wide step-out drilling is currently underway to test the extension of this mineralization beyond the 1.5km surface strike in preparation for a maiden resource. Drilling in 2024 showed the copper-tin-silver mineralization at La Romana is wide open, with grade increasing to the west and potential to significantly expand the deposit in several directions,” said Mr. Moody.
The large high-priority Bravo target (approximately 1km east and along-trend from La Romana) has advanced to drill-ready stage and the maiden drill program will commence this month with drill positions currently being selected.
“All of the operating copper mines on the Iberian Pyrite Belt are comprised of multiple deposits, and several exceed more than 100 million tonnes in size. We are confident that with more than a dozen geophysical and geochemical anomalies at the Escacena Project remaining to be tested, the goal of discovering multiple deposits totalling 100 million tonnes of resource can be achieved,” said Mr. Moody.
2025 Exploration Plan:
Three drill rigs will be active at the Escacena and Cármenes Projects, with more than 22 drillholes (~6,830 meters) planned on new targets in addition to expansion drilling at the La Romana discovery
At the Escacena Project, two drill rigs will focus on five untested targets – Bravo, Barbacena, Encina, Cortijo and El Pozo (see Figure 1 below)
A third drill rig will test the Providencia and Profunda targets in the Cármenes Project and a Heliborne Transient Electromagnetic survey will commence in January to identify additional targets beyond Providencia and Profunda
Maiden La Romana NI 43-101 Mineral Resource Estimate by mid-2025
Field exploration at Escacena will continue to asses the potential drill targets on additional anomalies
View original content to download multimedia:https://www.
Permex Petroleum Corporation (CSE: OIL) (FSE: 75P) announce that the Company has entered into an arrangement with a private oil and gas operator concerning assets owned by such operator in the Permian Basin. This arrangement grants Permex operating rights over 19 wells in the Permian Basin in exchange for a monthly operating fee of up to $75,000 USD per month based on production volumes and commodity prices.
“Permex is very excited to enter into this arrangement,” said Brad Taillon, Permex’s President and Chief Executive Officer. Taillon went on to say, “I am excited that we have the opportunity to leverage our existing experienced operations team to create an immediate new revenue stream for the Company by taking over field operations for an offset operator.”
Richard Little, Permex’s Chairman stated, “We are pleased with the arrangement that we have been able to negotiate allowing for a new source of income for the Company that should be impactful to the bottom line.” To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.
RecycLiCo Battery Materials Inc. (TSX.V: AMY | OTCQB: AMYZF | FSE: ID4) announced the publication today of a letter to shareholders from Richard Sadowsky, the Company’s Interim Chief Executive Officer, discussing the Company’s current activities and goals for the coming year.
Shareholders and stakeholders are encouraged to read the full letter on the company’s official website at: https://recyclico.com/
About RecycLiCo
RecycLiCo Battery Materials Inc. is a battery materials company specializing in sustainable lithium-ion battery recycling and materials production. RecycLiCo has developed advanced technologies that efficiently recover battery-grade materials from lithium-ion batteries, addressing the global demand for environmentally friendly solutions in energy storage. With minimal processing steps and up to 99% extraction of lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese, the patented, closed-loop hydrometallurgical process turns lithium-ion battery waste into battery-grade cathode precursor, lithium hydroxide, and lithium carbonate for direct integration into the re- manufacturing of new lithium-ion batteries.
Sarama Resources Ltd. (ASX: SRR)(TSXV: SWA) advise that it has executed a non-binding Heads of Agreement (the “HoA“) with Orbminco Limited (“Orbminco“) (ASX: OB1), an arm’s length third party, to acquire a majority and controlling interest(1) in the under-explored, belt-scale 420km² Mt Venn Project (the “Project“), located in the Eastern Goldfields of Western Australia.
This follows Sarama’s recent acquisition of a majority interest in the 580km² Cosmo Project, approximately 45km to the west of the Mt Venn Project. Both projects are well-positioned and underexplored, presenting an exciting opportunity for Sarama in the Laverton Gold District which is known for its prolific gold endowment (refer Figure 1).
Sarama’s President, Executive Chairman, Andrew Dinning commented:
“We are very pleased to have reached agreement to acquire the Mt Venn Project and when completed, this acquisition will significantly consolidate our position in the prolific Laverton Gold District of Western Australia. The addition of this project creates a major 1,000km 2 area-play which significantly enhances the probability of making the next big discovery in a region that continues to deliver new deposits in previously unexplored areas, including the regionally-significant Gruyere Deposit just 35km east of the Mt Venn Project. We look forward to working towards completing the transaction and will provide updates in due course.”
Mt Venn Project
The Project is comprised of 3 contiguous exploration tenements covering approximately 420km² in the Eastern Goldfields of Western Australia, approximately 110km north-east of Laverton and 35km west of the regionally- significant Gruyere Gold Mine(3). The Project is readily accessible via the Great Central Road which services the regional area east of Laverton.
The Project captures the majority of the underexplored Jutson Rocks Greenstone Belt over a strike length of ~50km. Rocks within the belt feature a diverse sequence of volcanic lithologies of varying composition, together with pyroclastics and metasediments. Several internal intrusive units have been identified throughout the Project and are commonly associated with local structural features. A regionally extensive shear zone, spanning 1-3km in width, extends the entire length of the belt with subordinate splays interpreted in the southern area of the Project which provides a favourable structural setting for mineralisation. View the original press release on accesswire.com
Silver Viper Minerals Corp. (TSXV: VIPR) (OTC: VIPRF) announces that, following approval by its board of directors, the Company will consolidate its issued and outstanding common shares (“Common Shares“) at a ratio of ten (10) pre‑consolidation Common Shares to one (1) post-consolidation Common Share (“Consolidation“). The Common Shares will commence trading on a post-Consolidation basis at the start of trading on January 15, 2025.
No fractional Common Shares will be issued as a result of the Consolidation. The holdings of any shareholder who would otherwise be entitled to receive a fractional Common Share as a result of the Consolidation shall be rounded up to the next higher whole number if the fraction is 0.5 or greater and rounded down to the next lower whole number if the fraction is less than 0.5.
Letters of transmittal have been mailed to all registered shareholders of the Company with instructions on how to exchange existing share certificates for new share certificates or DRS statements.
Registered shareholders who hold their Common Shares via DRS are not required to complete a letter of transmittal. A sample letter of transmittal is also available on the Company’s profile page on SEDAR+, if a registered shareholder does not receive a letter of transmittal in respect of its Common Shares represented by share certificates.
Non-registered shareholders (i.e. beneficial shareholders) who hold their Common Shares through an intermediary (i.e. a securities dealer, bank or financial institution) should note that the intermediary may have different procedures for processing the Consolidation from those that will be put in place by the Company for registered shareholders. Shareholders who hold their Common Shares through an intermediary who have questions in this regard should contact their intermediary for more information. www.
Snipp Interactive Inc. (TSXV: SPN)(OTC PINK:SNIPF), a global leader in innovative loyalty and promotional solutions, is pleased to announce a significant three-year contract exceeding $1 million with a global health and hygiene products company, featuring a flagship baby care product in its portfolio.
This new agreement, utilizing SnippCARE, is part of a longstanding relationship that has grown at an impressive 124% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the past five years. The contract underscores Snipp’s ability to deliver scalable, results-driven solutions that foster deeper partnerships and generate measurable business value for its clients.
The expansion of this relationship exemplifies the success of Snipp’s “land and expand” approach, wherein initial partnerships with large consumer brands grow into broader collaborations spanning multiple product categories. This model continues to validate the effectiveness of the Snipp platform, which integrates seamlessly into complex ecosystems, enabling brands to unlock new opportunities for customer engagement, data insights, and profitability.
Chris Cubba, Chief Revenue Officer of Snipp Interactive, commented: “This contract is a testament to the enduring value of our platform and the trust that global consumer brands place in Snipp. Our ability to drive growth through innovative, customer-centric solutions has transformed initial collaborations into multi-year, multi-million-dollar engagements. This is further proof that our ‘land and expand’ strategy continues to deliver results, helping us strengthen our relationships and expand our footprint across diverse industries.”
View the original press release on accesswire.com
Sona Nanotech Inc. (CSE: SONA, OTCQB: SNANF) announce that the now complete findings from our previously announced pre-clinical breast cancer and melanoma efficacy studies have been published in the peer-reviewed scientific journal, Frontiers in Immunology. This research article includes new follow-up data which provides a comprehensive analysis of the immunity activated by Sona’s Targeted Hyperthermia Therapy (“THT”). The published manuscript titled, “Targeted Intra-tumoral nHyperthermia with Uniquely Biocompatible Gold Nanorods Induces a Strong Immunogenic Cell Death in Two Immunogenically ‘Cold’ Tumors” is available online in electronic form (here) and will be in print in its upcoming issue of Frontiers in Immunology – Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy. Frontiers in Immunology is a leading journal in its field, publishing rigorously peer-reviewed research across basic, translational and clinical immunology.
Sona’s proprietary, innovative technology uses the Company’s patented, biocompatible gold nanorods (“GNRs”) to deliver precision, targeted, non-destructive hyperthermia therapy directly to cancers, thereby alleviating the systemic toxicity associated with most other cancer therapies. In this study, Sona’s team confirmed that its therapy causes cancer-specific cell death that activates a strong immune response by the body’s immune system. Of critical importance in Sona’s publication is the evidence that the ‘novel immunity’ generated by Sona’s THT is observed in cancers that are known to be completely resistant to modern immunotherapies.
Sona’s Chief Medical Officer, and the manuscript’s senior author, Dr. Carman Giacomantonio, commented, “I am extremely proud of my research team lead by Dr.
Barry Kennedy, and the quality of the research we have produced. To be published in such a highly respected and rigorously peer-reviewed journal as Frontiers in Immunology is no small feat! In our studies, we’ve shown in industry standard, pre-clinical cancer models that Sona’s therapy can eliminate cancers by converting them from ‘cold’, immune unresponsive tumors, into ‘hot’ immunogenic tumors. In the many years I have been involved in cancer research and treatment, I have never seen a treatment trigger such a powerful immune response in otherwise ‘cold’ tumors and our data makes it clear that there was no meaningful immune response to standard immunotherapies without THT in
these studies. Our publication in Frontiers in Immunology elevates our findings to an international level, giving us new audience with other leading cancer research laboratories and potential industry partners. Most importantly, this publication provides us with ‘proof-of-concept’, supporting the clinical trial protocols we are striving to launch in 2025.” “Our research appearing in a leading scientific journal is evidence of Sona delivering on our commitment to build a ‘mountain of data’ that will support our planned regulatory
filings. Its findings motivate our team to press on, affirming our conviction that THTimmunotherapy will be highly effective in the clinical setting. While we continue to conduct research on other cancers, we are now also focused on delivering evidence through first-in- 2 – human clinical trials, both here and abroad, as quickly as possible. This peer-reviewed publication of successful treatment using Sona’s THT in melanoma and breast cancers provides the credibility necessary to help make that happen.” said David Regan, Chief Executive Office of Sona Nanotech. www.sonanano.com
TantalexLithiumResourcesCorp.( CSE: TTX–FSE:DW8–OTCQB: TTLXF) report that it has resumed exports form the production of its tin concentrates at the TiTan plant in the DRC.
We have now completed our second export of 25 metric tons of tin concentrate, with the second lot departing from Lubumbashi, DRC on Dec.31 We are in the process of planning our third export and also have 7mt of Tantalum concentrate in storage in Lubumbashi. It is anticipated that regular exports will be taking place on a monthly basis in 2025 with the Company planning to commence export of its tantalum concentrates during Q1 2025.
Mr. Eric Allard, CEO commented : ‘’ 2024 has certainly been a challenging year for the Company as we have struggled to get the TiTan plant into production coupled with a major downturn in the lithium market. With the successful replacement of critical parts on our TiTan plant during 2024, 2025 promises to be much better for the Company with steady production and revenue.
The tin and tantalum markets have been very stable, in the face of macro instability, over the last year and are projected to remain so over the medium to long term. Tin remains in the range of 28’000 USD and 34’000 USD since March 2024 on the LME market and has seen ample support on price when the market has tested the 28’000 USD mark. (www.lme.com/en/metals/non-
Western Uranium & Vanadium Corp. (CSE: WUC) (OTCQX: WSTRF) provide a summary of its 2024 accomplishments as it ramps up uranium and vanadium production capacity and throughput.
Enhanced Mining Capability
Western has significantly enhanced its mining capabilities through various strategic initiatives. These include expanding its workforce by recruiting senior technical and mining staff, upgrading its fleet with additional mining equipment and vehicles, and addressing other staffing and supply chain challenges. Downtime has been reduced by expanding the maintenance shop, hiring more mechanics, and improving supply chain management. Infrastructure upgrades, such as extending utilities deeper into the mine and completing underground rehabilitation, have greatly increased accessible future development areas. Efficiency improvements, including installing push plates on loaders, increasing water truck capacity, and deploying a jumbo drill, have positioned Western for greater productivity.
Property Portfolio Acquisitions
The Company strengthened its property portfolio through strategic acquisitions and development. This includes the addition of two permitted mines through the Rimrock Joint Venture. Western has further expanded its holdings by staking additional mining claims and acquiring a previously permitted mineral processing site, enhancing its future capacity to process mineral resources close to the Sunday Mine Complex (“SMC”).
Mining Update
In 2024, Western made significant progress in advancing SMC mining operations. Western advanced toward the Leonard and Clark Deposit, drifting a total of 635 feet, passing through newly discovered zones of mineralization. This provided valuable data, leading to geophysical mapping of the face walls. Three significant seams were encountered in the drift walls, the first was drilled to affirm further mineralization at distance and above and below the drift level. In the GMG Deposit (“GMG”), 112 feet of drifting was completed, however most of the 2024 work on this deposit was drilling. Overall, total drifting at the SMC reached 747 feet for 2024. To support the primary drifting projects, substantial underground infrastructure development was undertaken. The Company strategically drifted around newly defined mineralized zones, preserving those for quick turnaround future development and extraction.
Drilling Update
Western achieved 20,336 feet of drilling in 2024, most at the GMG. Horizontal underground drilling was paused in October to allow our new geologist/qualified person to analyze the accumulated data. To ensure accurate and reliable drill data reporting, a rigorous and scientific approach is being taken including twinning holes, conducting assays, and drilling core samples. Preliminary results have identified five high-value mineralization zones in the GMG drift for inclusion in Western’s mine development plan. The geologist will focus his analysis on the data collected from these drill stations first. Preliminary results indicate the overall trend and shape of the deposit, with new mineralization identified above and below current depths. Additionally, surface/vertical drill data has been confirmed, further supporting our understanding of the GMG’s structure.
Please refer to the Company’s most recent Management’s Discussion and Analysis, as well as its other filings at www.sec.gov and/or www.
InvestorTalk
9:00-9:20 AM EST, Tuesday, January 14, 2025
InvestorTalk with Christopher Berlet of MineralFunds.com
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9:00-9:20 AM EST Wednesday, January 15, 2025
InvestorNews with Stephen Burega from Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API | OTCQB: APAAF)
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9:00-9:20 AM ESTThursday, January 16, 2025,
InvestorTalk with Peter Clausi from Silver Bullet Mines Corp. (TSXV: SBMI | OTCQB: SBMCF)
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CORPORATE DATA
0930 Cogeco Communications Inc: Q1 earnings conference call
1130 Cogeco Communications Inc: Annual Shareholders Meeting
1400 First Majestic Silver Corp: Shareholders Meeting
Ten-year Treasury yields hit 14-month highs, driving a spike in the dollar and a wave of selling in technology stocks which spread to Asia in early trade, with Japan’s Nikkei sliding after a holiday break and U.S. inflation data on investors’ minds.
Oil prices eased but remained near four-month highs as the impact of fresh U.S. sanctions on Russian oil remained the market’s key focus.
S&P 500 Index Mini Futures: 5,890.75; up 0.28%; 16.25 points
DJIA Mini Futures: 42,590; up 0.16%; 67 points
Nikkei: 38,390.17; down 2.04%; 800.23 points
MSCI Asia, Ex-JP: 556.48; up 1.27%; 6.99 points
EUR/USD: $1.0245; flat
GBP/USD: $1.2201; down 0.01%; 0.0001 point
USD/JPY: 157.62 yen; up 0.09%; 0.13 point
Spot Gold: $2,669.11; up 0.26%; $6.99
U.S. Crude: $78.43; down 0.49%; $0.39
Brent Crude: $80.54; down 0.58%; $0.47
10-Yr U.S. Treasury Yield: 4.7636%; down -0.041 point
10-Yr Bund Yield: 2.5860%; down 0.005 point
| Metals | Price | Day | % | Weekly | Monthly | YTD | YoY | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold USD/t.oz | 2669.08 | 1.18 | 0.04% | 0.74% | 0.67% | 1.71% | 29.93% | 07:32 |
| Silver USD/t.oz | 29.747 | 0.086 | 0.29% | -1.15% | -2.52% | 2.98% | 28.19% | 07:32 |
| Copper USD/Lbs | 4.2978 | 0.0023 | 0.05% | 3.33% | 3.75% | 7.85% | 14.14% | 07:32 |
| Steel CNY/T | 3216.00 | 38.00 | 1.20% | 0.56% | -2.22% | -2.84% | -15.35% | Jan/14 |
| Iron Ore CNY CNY/T | 783.00 | 14.50 | 1.89% | 3.98% | -2.13% | 0.51% | -16.08% | Jan/14 |
| Lithium CNY/T | 76350 | 400 | 0.53% | 1.19% | 0.46% | 1.73% | -20.05% | Jan/14 |
| Platinum USD/t.oz | 949.50 | 12.6 | -1.31% | -1.41% | 1.16% | 6.17% | 3.72% | 07:32 |
| Iron Ore USD/T | 98.72 | 0.63 | 0.64% | -0.72% | -6.35% | -4.72% | -27.81% | Jan/13 |
| Titanium CNY/KG | 44.50 | 0.00 | 0.00% | 0.00% | 2.30% | 0.00% | -2.27% | Jan/14 |
| HRC Steel USD/T | 702.96 | 2.04 | -0.29% | -0.99% | 4.14% | -0.85% | -24.00% | Jan/14 |
Applied Digital Corp: Investment bank Macquarie will invest up to $5 billion in the data center operator’s AI data centers and will take a 15% stake in the company, the Wall Street Journal reported, sending the technology firm’s shares up in premarket trading. Macquarie’s asset management arm has agreed to invest up to $900 million in a data center campus that Applied Digital is developing in North Dakota, the report said. It also has the right of first refusal to invest an additional $4.1 billion in future company data centers for 30 months, according to the WSJ report. The new funding will be used to repay debt Applied Digital took on to build the facilities in North Dakota and will allow it to recover over $300 million of its equity investment in them, the report said.
Blackstone Inc & Carlyle Group Inc: Wall Street firms including Blackstone, Apollo Capital Management and Carlyle have agreed to pay more than $63 million for violating U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission rules over record-keeping, the regulator said on Monday. The investment advisers and broker-dealers also admitted they violated rules in connection with employees’ use of off-channel communications platforms such as WhatsApp, the SEC said in a statement. As part of the settlements announced on Monday, the firms acknowledged their conduct violated record-keeping provisions, and have begun implementing improvements to their compliance policies and procedures, the SEC said.
Diamondback Energy Inc: The shale producer on Monday flagged lower prices for its oil production in the fourth quarter, compared to the preceding three months. The company said the average realized prices, or the price it received for total oil production, declined to $69.48 per barrel during the three months ended Dec. 31, compared with $73.13 per barrel in the preceding quarter. The firm signaled higher prices for its natural gas production in the fourth quarter. The average realized prices for natural gas were 82 cents per thousand cubic feet (Mcf) after hedging, compared to 60 cents per Mcf in the third quarter, the company said. Analysts expect Diamondback Energy to post a profit of $3.36 per share for the fourth quarter, and $15.86 for the full-year. The producer will release its financial results on Feb. 24, the company’s website showed.
Hawaiian Electric Industries Inc: The electricity provider on Monday laid out a plan to fortify the power grid to help reduce the risk of a wildfire started by its equipment. Hawaiian Electric said its wildfire safety plan would cost about $450 million from 2025 to 2027, with $137 million already budgeted for work this year. The company added that some of the costs have already been funded through existing programs, including a federal grant it received in 2024 for grid resiliency.
ECONOMIC DATA
0830 PPI Machine Manufacturing for Dec: Prior 185.3
0830 PPI Final Demand YY for Dec: Expected 3.4%; Prior 3.0%
0830 PPI Final Demand MM for Dec: Expected 0.3%; Prior 0.4%
0830 PPI Ex-food/energy YY for Dec: Expected 3.8%; Prior 3.4%
0830 PPI Ex-food/energy MM for Dec: Expected 0.3%; Prior 0.2%
0830 PPI Ex-food/energy/trade YY for Dec: Prior 3.5%
0830 PPI Ex-food/energy/trade MM for Dec: Prior 0.1%
Negotiators will meet in Doha seeking to finalise details of a plan to end the war in Gaza after U.S. President Joe Biden said a ceasefire and hostage release deal he has championed was on “the brink” of coming to fruition.
The U.S. government said on Monday it would further restrict artificial intelligence chip and technology exports, divvying up the world to keep advanced computing power in the United States and among its allies while finding more ways to block China’s access.
The Bank of Japan will debate whether to raise interest rates next week as prospects of sustained wage gains heighten and the U.S. policy outlook becomes clearer in President-elect Donald Trump’s inaugural address, Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino said.
Arm Holdings is developing a long-term strategy to hike prices by as much as 300% and has discussed designing its own chips in a move to compete with its biggest customers.
Philips CEO Roy Jakobs said he still expects subdued demand in China this year due to healthcare anti-corruption efforts by the Chinese government that has hurt revenue there for Western companies.
Amazon said it has ordered 200 Mercedes-Benz fully-
