Company Interviews

Interview with Justin van der Toorn, President & CEO of Greenheart Gold Inc.Recording date: 11th September 2024Greenheart Gold emerges as a compelling opportunity in the junior gold exploration sector, born from the merger of Reunion Gold and G Mining Ventures. This new company combines a track record of recent success with a fresh strategy and strong financial backing, positioning itself to capitalize on the mineral-rich Guiana Shield region of South America.The company's foundation is built on the remarkable success of the OKO West project in Guyana, which progressed from initial discovery to a preliminary economic assessment in just 38 months. With 6 million ounces of gold, OKO West demonstrates Greenheart Gold's ability to identify and rapidly advance significant discoveries.Currently, Greenheart Gold is advancing two main projects:Majorodam in Suriname: Located near existing gold deposits with good accessibility, this project benefits from a history of alluvial mining but lacks modern exploration.Abuya in Guyana: Situated in a promising structural setting near the 7-million-ounce Aurora mine, this project shows potential based on active alluvial mining in the area.The company plans to expand its portfolio to 5-6 projects, employing an efficient "drill, kill, or advance" strategy to ensure disciplined capital allocation. This approach allows for quick evaluation of multiple projects, focusing resources on the most promising opportunities.Greenheart Gold starts with a strong financial position, backed by a $15 million investment from G Mining Ventures for a 20% stake. This funding provides the resources needed to pursue an aggressive exploration strategy without immediate capital constraints, a significant advantage in the current market where many juniors struggle to raise funds.A key strength lies in the company's experienced team, which includes key personnel from Reunion Gold and industry veteran David Fennell as Executive Chairman. This team brings not only technical expertise but also crucial local knowledge and relationships, providing a competitive edge in property acquisition and navigation of local operating environments.Investors can expect a steady stream of news and potential catalysts in the near term. The company has completed initial soil sampling on both main projects and plans to follow up with trenching, channel sampling, and drill testing in the coming months. This aggressive exploration schedule could drive significant investor interest and potential share price appreciation.The investment thesis for Greenheart Gold is underpinned by several factors:Proven track record of discovery and rapid advancementStrategic focus on the highly prospective Guiana ShieldMultiple project approach to spread riskEfficient exploration strategy for disciplined capital useStrong financial positionExperienced team with deep regional expertiseNear-term catalysts from aggressive exploration plansPotential undervaluation as a newly formed companyWhile operating in emerging markets carries inherent risks, management's long-standing experience in the region and their view of recent geopolitical tensions as manageable provide some reassurance.For investors seeking exposure to gold exploration with the potential for significant discoveries, Greenheart Gold offers an intriguing opportunity. The company's combination of proven success, strategic focus, and strong fundamentals positions it well to potentially uncover the next major gold deposit in one of the world's most promising geological regions.View Greenheart Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/reunion-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Marco Roque, President & CEO of Cassiar Gold Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/cassiar-gold-corp-tsxvgldc-advancing-district-scale-gold-asset-in-a-premier-mining-jurisdiction-4727Recording date: 11th September 2024Cassiar Gold Corp. (TSXV:GLDC) is advancing its flagship Cassiar Gold project in northern British Columbia, aiming to uncover a district-scale gold opportunity that could attract major producer interest. Led by CEO Marco Roque since 2020, the company has been methodically expanding its resource base through consistent drilling success.The Cassiar Gold project spans 59,000 hectares and currently hosts the Taurus deposit with a 1.4 million ounce gold resource. However, management believes this is just the beginning. For 2024 alone, the company has drilled over 7,168 meters, consistently expanding mineralization with an impressive hit rate. Out of 175 drill holes completed since the last resource update, only two failed to intercept significant mineralization above the cut-off grade.The company's strategy focuses on demonstrating the district-scale potential of the property. Beyond the Taurus deposit, Cassiar Gold sees potential for multiple satellite deposits that could be as large as Taurus or potentially form part of an even larger connected system. The ultimate goal is to define a 5+ million ounce resource that would attract interest from major gold producers seeking to replenish their reserves in stable jurisdictions.Cassiar Gold plans to release an updated resource estimate in early 2025, incorporating results from their extensive drilling campaigns. This update represents a significant potential catalyst for the stock. The company currently has about $7 million in cash and has consistently raised capital to fund exploration, including creative use of flow-through financing to minimize dilution.One of Cassiar Gold's key strengths is its experienced management team and board, which includes industry veterans with track records in discovering, developing, and operating major gold mines globally. This expertise could prove valuable in attracting interest from potential acquirers.The investment thesis for Cassiar Gold centers on its district-scale potential, consistent exploration success, strategic location in a stable jurisdiction, and potential for significant resource growth. The company offers leveraged exposure to gold prices, with success in resource expansion potentially providing outsized returns relative to gold price movements.Cassiar Gold's story intersects with several favorable macroeconomic themes, including record gold prices, increasing geopolitical instability driving interest in stable jurisdictions, and major producers facing declining reserves. These factors could drive increased M&A activity in the gold sector, potentially benefiting advanced explorers like Cassiar Gold.As always, thorough due diligence and careful position sizing are essential when considering investments in the junior mining sector. For investors with a high risk tolerance and long-term perspective, Cassiar Gold offers exposure to a potentially large-scale gold discovery in a premier mining jurisdiction. The upcoming resource update and ongoing exploration results provide near-term catalysts, while the company's strategic focus on building a district-scale opportunity sets the stage for potential long-term value creation.View Cassiar Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/cassiar-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Alan Carter, President & CEO of Cabral Gold Inc.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/cabral-gold-tsxvcbr-unlocking-brazils-next-major-gold-district-5699Recording date: 10th September 2024Cabral Gold (TSXV: CBR) presents an compelling investment opportunity in the gold sector, with its Cuiú Cuiú project in Brazil's Tapajós region poised for near-term development. The company is on the verge of completing a Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) for its oxide resource, targeting production as early as Q1 2026.Located adjacent to G Mining's recently commissioned Tocantinzinho mine, Cuiú Cuiú boasts a strategic position in a historically prolific gold district. CEO Alan Carter emphasizes the project's significance: "Historically, it produced 10 times the amount of placer gold as Tocantinzinho." This historical context underscores the potential scale of Cabral's land package.The company's current resource base totals approximately 1.2 million ounces of gold, with substantial room for growth. Recent exploration success, including a high-grade intercept of 11 meters at 33 g/t gold on a peripheral target, highlights the project's upside potential. With over 45 targets yet to be drilled, Cuiú Cuiú offers significant exploration opportunities beyond the known deposits.Cabral's near-term focus is on developing its oxide resource, which offers several advantages:Free-digging material, potentially leading to lower mining costsSimple processing requirements, eliminating the need for expensive milling equipmentHigh gold recoveries of 92-93% in recent metallurgical testsThese factors could contribute to favorable project economics and a relatively low-cost operation.The company aims to make a construction decision by Q1 2025, with potential production starting in Q1 2026. This accelerated timeline is made possible by the project's relatively simple nature. To bridge the gap to production, Cabral is exploring various financing options, including joint ventures, debt, equity, and streaming agreements.From a market perspective, Cabral Gold trades at a significant discount to its potential value. With a market capitalization well below $100 million, there's substantial room for valuation expansion as the company transitions from explorer to producer. The project's potentially low capital intensity relative to peers could make it an attractive investment proposition.Investors should consider several key factors:Imminent PFS release, a potential catalyst for stock appreciationOngoing exploration results that could indicate the true scale of Cuiú CuiúProgress on project financing and strategic partnershipsThe company's ability to meet its stated development timelineWhile Cabral Gold offers significant upside potential, investors should also be aware of risks inherent to junior mining companies, including execution, financing, and commodity price risks.The macro environment for gold remains favorable, with prices near all-time highs. Additionally, the industry's focus on stable jurisdictions, near-term production potential, and exploration upside aligns well with Cabral's offering.In conclusion, Cabral Gold represents a unique opportunity to invest in a potentially emerging gold district with near-term production prospects. As the company approaches key milestones, including the PFS release and potential construction decision, it could transition from an under-the-radar explorer to a noteworthy gold producer in one of Brazil's most prospective regions. For investors seeking exposure to the gold sector, Cabral Gold warrants serious consideration.View Cabral Gold's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/cabral-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Terry Lynch, CEO of Power NickelOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/power-nickel-tsxvpnpn-24m-drilling-program-on-major-polymetallic-discovery-5493Recording date: 10th September 2024Power Nickel is emerging as a compelling investment opportunity in the junior mining sector, driven by its potentially world-class polymetallic discovery in Quebec's James Bay region. The company's NISK project, particularly the recently discovered Lion Zone, has attracted significant attention and investment from industry leaders, positioning Power Nickel for potential substantial growth.Power Nickel's investment case is built on several key strengths. The company's Lion Zone has shown impressive high-grade polymetallic mineralization, with CEO Terry Lynch reporting that over half of the 29 holes drilled have yielded "seriously great hits of like almost 10% copper equivalent," significantly enhancing the project's economic potential. Financially, Power Nickel is well-positioned, having recently raised $20 million from prominent investors including Robert Friedland and Rob McEwen, providing an 18-month runway for aggressive exploration without near-term financing pressures. The addition of Dr. Steve Beresford, a renowned polymetallic deposit specialist, brings invaluable expertise to the team, with Dr. Beresford comparing the Lion Zone's potential to the world-famous Norilsk deposit. Power Nickel is employing cutting-edge exploration techniques, including downhole EM surveys and ambient noise tomography, maximizing efficiency and discovery potential. The NISK project's strategic location in mining-friendly Quebec offers excellent infrastructure and year-round operational potential. The deposit's diverse metal mix, including nickel, copper, gold, and platinum group metals, provides natural hedging against price volatility and aligns with growing demand for energy transition metals. Investors can look forward to near-term catalysts including regular drill results and a resource update planned for Q1 2024. Finally, the project benefits from favorable macro trends, including increasing demand for critical metals and growing interest in secure, ESG-friendly resource projects in stable jurisdictions.While Power Nickel offers significant upside potential, investors should be aware of the risks inherent in junior mining exploration. These include geological uncertainties, metal price volatility, potential future dilution, and the long lead times typically associated with mine development.The company's strong financial position, high-grade discovery, expert team, and strategic location distinguish it from many peers in the junior mining space. The backing of industry leaders like Friedland and McEwen lends additional credibility to the project's potential.As exploration progresses, key milestones to watch include the expansion of known mineralization, potential new discoveries within the project area, and the upcoming resource update. Additionally, given the scale and potential of the project, there may be opportunities for strategic partnerships or investments from major mining companies.For investors seeking exposure to the dynamic world of mineral exploration and the critical metals needed for the global energy transition, Power Nickel represents an intriguing opportunity. However, as with any junior mining investment, careful due diligence and risk management are essential. The company's progress over the coming months will be crucial in determining whether it can transform its promising start into a truly world-class mineral deposit.View Power Nickel's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/power-nickelSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Mark Selby, CEO of Canada NickelOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/canada-nickel-tsxvcnc-1st-resource-of-7-new-resources-all-by-q125-5708Recording date: 10th September 2024Canada Nickel Company is emerging as a significant player in the critical minerals sector, focusing on developing large-scale nickel projects in the Timmins district of Ontario. Led by CEO Mark Selby, the company is advancing its flagship Crawford nickel sulfide project while simultaneously exploring multiple targets across the region, aiming to establish what could become the world's largest nickel sulfide district.The company's strategy is built on several key pillars. First, it focuses on large-scale resources, with the Crawford project poised to become one of the largest nickel sulfide operations in the Western world. Canada Nickel has also identified seven other exploration targets, planning to publish resources for six of them by mid-next year, showcasing the district-wide potential. Second, the company employs innovative financing, having secured significant funding without heavily diluting existing shareholders. This includes a $500 million USD letter of interest from Export Development Canada, $600 million in refundable tax credits from the Canadian government, and a $100 million commitment from Samsung SDI. The company plans to bring in a project partner for an additional $300-400 million, further de-risking the project. Third, Canada Nickel maintains a strong ESG focus, positioning itself to meet the growing demand for "clean, green" nickel from automakers and battery manufacturers. Its projects in Timmins offer the potential for environmentally responsible nickel production, aligning with stringent ESG criteria. Fourth, the company benefits from substantial government support, with its projects closely aligning with Canada's critical minerals strategy, resulting in significant financial incentives and potential for streamlined permitting processes. Finally, despite being a low-grade deposit, the company argues for the economic viability of its projects due to operational efficiencies, processing advantages, and existing infrastructure in the Timmins region.Investors should note several key upcoming milestones for Canada Nickel. The company plans to publish six additional resources by mid-next year, significantly expanding its nickel inventory. Within the next year, Canada Nickel expects to receive key permits for the Crawford project, a crucial step towards development. The company is also working on finalizing its debt package and securing a project-level equity partner, which will further solidify its financial position. Perhaps most importantly, a potential final investment decision on Crawford is anticipated within the next 12-18 months, marking a pivotal moment in the company's progression from explorer to producer. These milestones collectively represent significant potential catalysts for the company's valuation and investor interest.The investment thesis for Canada Nickel is underpinned by the growing global demand for nickel in electric vehicle batteries and energy storage systems. As major automakers and governments push for secure, responsible sources of critical minerals, Canada Nickel's projects in a stable jurisdiction like Canada could command a premium.However, investors should also be aware of potential risks, including nickel market volatility, execution risks associated with developing multiple large-scale projects, and the reliance on effective implementation of processing technologies for low-grade ore.Overall, Canada Nickel represents a unique opportunity in the critical minerals space, offering exposure to the rapidly growing EV and battery storage markets, backed by tangible assets and strong government support. As the company progresses towards production and continues to expand its resource base, it may attract increased attention from both institutional investors and strategic industry partners. For investors looking to capitalize on the clean energy transition and critical minerals boom, Canada Nickel warrants serious consideration.View Canada Nickel's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/canada-nickelSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Claudia Tornquist, President & CEO of Kodiak Copper Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/kodiak-copper-tsxvkdk-vrify-ai-guided-drilling-poised-for-discovery-success-at-mpd-project-5030Recording date: 10th September 2024Kodiak Copper has emerged as a compelling investment opportunity in the copper exploration sector, following its recent high-grade discovery at the MPD project in southern British Columbia. Led by President & CEO Claudia Tornquist and founded by Chris Taylor of Great Bear Resources, the company is strategically positioned to capitalize on the growing global demand for copper driven by the green energy transition and technological advancements.The company's 2024 drilling program at MPD has yielded impressive initial results, with the first hole at the adit zone intercepting 150 meters of 0.76% copper equivalent near surface - approximately three times the grade of nearby operating mines. This high-grade discovery underscores the potential for MPD to host a significant copper deposit, aligning with Kodiak's vision of developing a major mine in the region.Kodiak's exploration strategy focuses on identifying near-surface, high-grade mineralization, which is crucial for enhancing project economics and attracting major mining companies. The company plans to drill up to 10,000 meters in 2024, with results expected to flow throughout autumn and winter into 2025, providing multiple catalysts for potential share price appreciation.The MPD project's location in an established mining district offers several advantages, including proximity to existing infrastructure, access to a skilled workforce, and a supportive regulatory environment. These factors could contribute to reduced development costs and streamlined permitting processes in the future.While the junior mining sector currently faces valuation challenges, this presents a potential opportunity for investors willing to accept the risks associated with early-stage mineral exploration. As Tornquist notes, "From an investor's perspective, of course, that's the time when you want to buy. And my pitch certainly to investors is for a company like Kodiak, where we have lots more results to come, lots more news flow, that's the time when you want to look at a company like ourselves."Investors should consider Kodiak Copper for its high-grade copper discovery with expansion potential, strategic project location in a prolific mining district, and experienced management team with a track record of success. The company offers multiple near-term catalysts from ongoing drilling results, providing potential for share price appreciation. Additionally, Kodiak presents leveraged exposure to copper prices, which are expected to rise due to supply constraints and growing global demand, particularly driven by the green energy transition and technological advancements.However, potential investors should also be aware of the risks inherent in junior mining exploration, including exploration uncertainty, commodity price volatility, and potential future dilution from additional financing needs.As global copper demand continues to grow, driven by renewable energy adoption and infrastructure development, companies like Kodiak that can demonstrate the potential for significant, high-grade copper resources are likely to attract increasing attention from both investors and major mining companies.With its recent high-grade discovery, ongoing drilling program, and experienced management team, Kodiak Copper represents an intriguing opportunity for investors seeking exposure to the copper market at a time when valuations in the junior mining sector appear depressed relative to underlying commodity prices. As results continue to come in from the MPD project, Kodiak could be well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for copper in an environmentally conscious world.View Kodiak Copper's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/kodiak-copper-corpSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Dan Barnholden, CEO of Luca Mining Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/luca-mining-luca-gold-producer-building-up-speed-and-momentum-3276Recording date: 10th September 2024Luca Mining, a junior gold and base metals producer, is positioning itself for significant growth with its two operating mines in Mexico. The company, led by newly appointed CEO Dan Barnholden, aims to produce over 100,000 gold equivalent ounces by 2025 from its Campo Morado and Tahuehueto mines.Campo Morado, the company's primary asset, is a polymetallic volcanogenic massive sulfide (VMS) deposit with a 15-year production history. Luca Mining is implementing two major initiatives to optimize operations:Engaging a top-tier mining contractor to increase production from 1,400-1,600 tons per day to 2,000-2,400 tons per day.Collaborating with engineering firm Aseno on the Campo Morado Improvement Project to enhance mill recoveries.These initiatives are expected to boost gold equivalent production from about 50,000 ounces in 2024 to approximately 80,000 ounces in 2025. The diverse production profile at Campo Morado (40% zinc, 30% gold, 15% copper, 10% silver, 5% lead) provides natural hedging against metal price fluctuations.Tahuehueto, a newly constructed mine with a 10-year mine life, is entering the commissioning phase and will contribute to the company's production growth.Luca Mining recently completed a financing to strengthen its balance sheet and fund high-return opportunities. While the terms were favorable to new investors due to challenging market conditions for junior miners, the deal aimed to attract institutional investors and potentially generate equity research coverage.The company is actively managing its $18 million debt, with plans to repay $12 million over the next six quarters starting October 2024. A significant warrant position at C$0.50 could potentially generate $20 to $25 million if exercised, which the company intends to use for further debt reduction.One of the most exciting aspects of Luca Mining's story is the exploration potential at Campo Morado. The asset has not been explored since 2011, and the company has identified 38 exploration targets. Luca Mining plans to invest approximately $25 million in exploration over the next several years, aiming to double the resource base.For 2025, the company projects revenue between $200-250 million, with all-in sustaining costs (AISC) around $1,600 per gold equivalent ounce. CEO Barnholden anticipates potential free cash flow of over $40 million, significant compared to the company's current market capitalization of approximately C$70 million.While the outlook appears promising, investors should consider several risks:Execution risk in meeting production and optimization targetsMetal price volatility affecting revenuesGeopolitical and security risks associated with operating in MexicoFinancial risks, despite the recent improvement in the company's positionAs with any junior mining investment, thorough due diligence is essential. Investors should closely monitor quarterly production reports, exploration updates, and the company's progress in debt repayment and balance sheet improvement.Luca Mining represents an opportunity for investors seeking exposure to a growing precious and base metals producer with clear growth plans and exploration upside. The company's transition from a speculative junior to a more established producer could attract increased attention from institutional investors and analysts, potentially leading to a re-rating of the company's shares.View Luca Mining's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/luca-mining-corpSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Ian Harris, President & CEO of Outcrop Silver.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/top-silver-development-projects-offer-exposure-to-rising-industrial-demand-5453Recording date: 10th September 2024Outcrop Silver (TSXV:OCG) presents an intriguing opportunity for investors seeking exposure to the silver market through a high-grade exploration project. The company's flagship Santa Ana project in Colombia stands out as one of the highest-grade undeveloped silver projects globally, offering significant leverage to silver prices and substantial exploration upside.Santa Ana currently boasts a resource of 37 million ounces of silver equivalent, with 75% of its resource value in silver. This high silver content distinguishes Outcrop from many peers, positioning it as a relatively pure-play silver company. CEO Ian Harris emphasizes, "At 75% of the value, we're highly leveraged," highlighting the company's strong exposure to silver price movements.The company's primary strategy focuses on expanding its resource base through methodical exploration of multiple veins. This approach aims to de-risk exploration efforts by testing numerous targets to identify those likely to add the most ounces per meter drilled. Outcrop's goal is ambitious, with potential to double or even triple the current resource size.Beyond exploration, Outcrop is considering various development scenarios for Santa Ana. The project's high grade, coupled with favorable metallurgy, positions it well for potential future production. The company is exploring options ranging from larger-scale development to smaller pilot production, providing flexibility to adapt to market conditions.A key strength of Outcrop's approach is its focus on community relations. The company has made significant efforts to build positive relationships with local communities, which is crucial for the long-term success of mining projects. This strategy helps mitigate political and permitting risks, potentially smoothing the path to development.The broader silver market presents a compelling backdrop for Outcrop's efforts. Growing industrial demand, particularly from the renewable energy sector, is driving silver consumption. This demand growth, coupled with limited supply expansion in the silver mining industry, could lead to favorable pricing dynamics.For investors, Outcrop offers several attractive features: a high-grade resource with exploration upside, strong leverage to silver prices, development optionality, and a presence in an increasingly mining-friendly jurisdiction. The company's experienced management team, led by CEO Ian Harris who brings substantial mining experience in South America, further strengthens the investment case.As with any junior mining investment, risks remain. These include exploration uncertainty, future funding requirements that could lead to dilution, exposure to volatile metal prices, and potential political and regulatory challenges in Colombia.In conclusion, Outcrop Silver represents an interesting opportunity for investors bullish on silver and comfortable with the risk-reward profile of exploration-stage companies. The company's high-grade Santa Ana project, coupled with its methodical approach to resource expansion and consideration of various development scenarios, provides multiple avenues for potential value creation. As the global demand for silver continues to grow, companies with high-quality silver assets like Santa Ana may be well-positioned to benefit.View Outcrop Silver's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/outcrop-silver-goldSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with Ari Sussman, Executive Chairman of Collective Mining Ltd.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/collective-mining-tsxvcnl-cashed-up-to-prove-scale-of-a-new-colombian-gold-camp-5057Recording date: 10th September 2024In a recent interview we conducted with Ari Sussman, Executive Chairman of Collective Mining during the Precious Metals Summit at Beaver Creek, he provided insights into the company's exploration activities in Colombia. The discussion centered on their projects, strategy, and Sussman's perspectives on the mining industry.The conversation primarily focused on the Apollo project, which Collective Mining discovered in 2022. Sussman described a mineralized system measuring 600 by 400 meters and extending 1.2 kilometers vertically. Of particular interest is the high-grade mineralization identified from surface, including an oxide zone in the top 30 meters. Sussman highlighted initial metallurgical test work results, citing favorable recovery rates for multiple metals: 93-96% for gold, similar rates for copper, around 75% for silver, and 70% for tungsten.The project's location appears to be strategically advantageous, situated on elevated terrain near the Pan-American highway. Sussman suggested this could provide logistical benefits for potential future operations. While Apollo is the company's flagship project, Sussman also mentioned other prospects within their portfolio, including the Trap target and the Plutus target, described as a copper-gold porphyry prospect.Regarding the broader context of operating in Colombia, Sussman spoke positively about the country as a mining jurisdiction. He noted that environmental permits are typically processed within 10 months and highlighted the region's long history of mining activity. Community relations appear to be a priority for Collective Mining, with Sussman discussing their partnership with the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation. This alliance, according to Sussman, focuses on water management and promoting coexistence between agriculture and mining.The interview also touched on market considerations. Sussman acknowledged challenges faced by junior mining companies in the Canadian market and explained the company's decision to list on a U.S. exchange. He outlined Collective Mining's strategy, stating their goal to position the company for a potential acquisition within 3-4 years. This strategy involves targets such as defining a resource of 10+ million ounces gold equivalent and demonstrating production potential of 400,000 ounces per year or more.Sussman offered his perspective on current trends in the mining industry, including merger and acquisition activity among major companies. While much of the discussion focused on the potential of their projects, Sussman also acknowledged the risks inherent in mineral exploration and development. He mentioned challenges related to managing relationships with local small-scale miners and maintaining community support.This interview provides a window into Collective Mining's projects and strategy, as well as the Executive Chairman's views on the broader mining industry. It's important for viewers to note that the information presented reflects the company's perspective at the time of the interview. As with any mining exploration company, future results may differ from current expectations.For those interested in the mining sector, this interview offers one company's approach to mineral exploration in Colombia. It covers various aspects of the industry, from technical details of mineral deposits to market considerations and community relations. However, investors and interested parties are encouraged to conduct their own research and due diligence beyond the information presented in this interview.The conversation with Ari Sussman provides a snapshot of Collective Mining's activities and aspirations in Colombia's mineral sector. It illustrates the complex interplay of geological, technical, social, and market factors that shape the development of mining projects in emerging jurisdictions. As the company continues its exploration efforts, it will be interesting to see how their projects evolve and how they navigate the challenges and opportunities in the dynamic world of mineral exploration.View Collective Mining's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/collective-miningSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com

Interview with David Kelley, President & CEO of Chakana Copper Corp.Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/chakana-copper-tsxvperu-high-grade-silver-opportunity-at-soledad-copper-project-5859Recording date: 5th September 2024Chakana Copper Corp. (TSXV:PERU) has recently completed a significant 3,000-meter drill program at its Soledad project in Ancash, Peru, yielding promising results that could attract investor interest. The program, focused on the southern portion of the property, has resulted in two new discoveries and refined targets for future exploration.The first major discovery is the Estremadoyro breccia pipe, which hosts high-grade copper-gold-silver mineralization starting at the surface and remaining open at depth. Notably, this is the first instance of bornite mineralization found in the project's breccia pipes, potentially indicating higher-grade copper content. This discovery reinforces the ongoing potential of the breccia pipe story at Soledad.The second significant find is at the La Joya target, where drilling intercepted substantial silver mineralization within a high-sulfidation epithermal system. The best intercept returned over a kilogram of silver per tonne over a narrow interval, within a broader zone of 42 meters averaging 323 g/t silver. This discovery opens up new possibilities for a standalone precious metals opportunity within the broader Soledad project.In addition to these discoveries, the company has made progress in refining its Mega-Gold porphyry target. While not yielding immediate high-grade intercepts, the drilling program provided crucial information for vectoring towards potential porphyry targets, reducing the search space from 2.5 square kilometers to 1 square kilometer.Chakana's current focus is on expanding its existing high-grade resource from 6.7 million tons to approximately 10 million tons. The company believes that achieving this target could potentially support a mining operation, given the high-grade nature of the mineralization and its near-surface location.Looking ahead, Chakana is planning a follow-up 5,000-meter drill program to further test the most promising targets. This program will likely allocate resources across the Compañero breccias (pending final permits), the refined Mega-Gold porphyry target, and the La Joya epithermal zone.For investors, Chakana presents an interesting opportunity in the junior mining sector. The company's multi-faceted approach, focusing on high-grade breccia pipes, epithermal precious metals, and porphyry copper-gold potential, provides multiple avenues for potential success. The use of advanced exploration techniques, such as hyperspectral core scanning, may increase the efficiency of future drilling programs.However, it's important to note that Chakana is still in the exploration stage, and the path from discovery to a producing mine is long and capital-intensive. Investors should be aware of the risks inherent in junior mining exploration, including potential share dilution, commodity price volatility, and the technical and financial challenges of advancing a project.The planned follow-up drilling program in Q4 2024 will be a key catalyst to watch. Positive results could provide further validation of the project's potential and guide the company's future direction. For investors with a high risk tolerance and a long-term outlook, Chakana Copper offers exposure to a range of potential outcomes in one of the world's premier mining jurisdictions.View Chakana Copper's company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/chakana-copperSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com