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OpenAI is facing mounting backlash after striking a controversial agreement with the Pentagon to deploy its artificial intelligence (AI) systems across US national security operations.

The most immediate internal consequence came from the departure of Caitlin Kalinowski, a senior leader who previously headed OpenAI’s robotics division.

Kalinowski announced her resignation on social media over the weekend (March 7), saying the company moved too quickly on an agreement that raises serious questions about surveillance and autonomous weapons.

“This wasn’t an easy call,” Kalinowski wrote in a post on X. “AI has an important role in national security. But surveillance of Americans without judicial oversight and lethal autonomy without human authorization are lines that deserved more deliberation than they got. This was about principle, not people.”

Kalinowski also said she believed the agreement with the Pentagon had been rushed without clear governance safeguards.

“It’s a governance concern first and foremost,” she said. “These are too important for deals or announcements to be rushed.”

OpenAI confirmed her departure but defended the agreement, saying the contract contains safeguards governing how its technology may be used.

“We recognize that people have strong views about these issues and we will continue to engage in discussion with employees, government, civil society and communities around the world,” the company added.

Deal deepens AI industry divide

Prior to the deal, the Pentagon had already been negotiating with Anthropic, the developer of the Claude chatbot, over a similar partnership.

However, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei refused to allow the company’s technology to be used for domestic mass surveillance or military attacks conducted without human input.

The standoff ultimately collapsed, prompting President Donald Trump to order federal agencies to stop using Anthropic technology. The Defense Department later designated the company a “supply chain risk,” a label typically applied to entities tied to foreign adversaries.

OpenAI then stepped in to sign its own agreement with the Pentagon.

The contract allows OpenAI models to be deployed in classified environments while maintaining several restrictions. The company said its systems cannot be used for mass domestic surveillance, autonomous weapons systems or high-stakes automated decision-making without human oversight.

The agreement also includes a “cloud-only” deployment architecture, which OpenAI says prevents its models from being used directly in autonomous weapons operating on physical devices. Engineers with security clearances will remain involved in the deployment process, and the company said it retains control over its safety systems.

Still, critics argue that the agreement opens the door to a much deeper integration of artificial intelligence into US military operations.

The controversy also further intensified as the US and Israel launched military strikes against Iran shortly after the agreement was finalized.

Consumer backlash

Shortly after the agreement was announced, downloads of Anthropic’s Claude chatbot surged while uninstallations of OpenAI’s ChatGPT spiked sharply.

Data cited by Sensor Tower showed ChatGPT uninstallations rising more than 295 percent on February 28, the day after the deal was made public.

Within days, Claude had climbed to the top spot among free apps on Apple’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) US App Store, overtaking ChatGPT. It also became the most downloaded productivity app on the platform.

The backlash has extended beyond digital platforms. Activists gathered outside OpenAI’s headquarters in San Francisco, launching what they described as a “QuitGPT” protest campaign against the company.

Lawmakers move to intervene

California Democratic Representative Sam Liccardo introduced an amendment to the Defense Production Act aimed at preventing the Pentagon from retaliating against companies that impose safety restrictions on high-risk technologies.

Liccardo argued that firms developing powerful AI systems should have a say in how their technology is deployed.

“Full disclosure: I am a Claude subscriber, though I can’t claim to have used it to create any homicidal bots,” Liccardo said during a House Financial Services Committee meeting.

“Regardless, when the company that designs and builds the jet fighter tells us when to use the brakes, we should listen. Instead, the Pentagon’s bureaucrats and lawyers believe they know better. They think they can fly the plane without brakes.”

The amendment ultimately failed on a 16-25 vote.

Altman acknowledges missteps

Facing mounting criticism, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has sought to repair the company’s reputation by publicly acknowledging that the process of announcing the Pentagon agreement had been flawed.

“The process was definitely rushed, and the optics don’t look good,” Altman wrote on X shortly after the backlash began.

In a follow-up internal memo shared publicly, Altman also said OpenAI had revised the contract language to include clearer prohibitions against domestic surveillance using “commercially acquired” personal data.

He also reiterated that OpenAI’s models cannot be used to direct autonomous weapons systems and said the company’s engineers and safety researchers would remain directly involved in overseeing how the technology is deployed.

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

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Force majeure declarations are beginning to ripple across the global commodities sector as the escalating conflict in the Middle East threatens to spread shocks beyond oil and gas.

Energy companies, producers, and traders are already grappling with interruptions to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf to global markets.

The strait typically carries roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supply, making it one of the most important chokepoints in global commodity trade.

Energy producers declare force majeure

Some of the first force majeure declarations have emerged from the energy sector.

QatarEnergy declared force majeure on liquefied natural gas (LNG) deliveries this week after attacks forced the state-owned company to halt production at key facilities. The decision followed strikes on two LNG installations and continuing security threats in the region.

In Israel, Chevron (NYSE:CVX) also declared force majeure at the Leviathan offshore gas field after authorities ordered a shutdown following US–Israeli strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliation across the region.

Leviathan is Israel’s largest gas field and supplies natural gas to Israel, Egypt and Jordan. The suspension marks the second time in less than a year that regional hostilities have interrupted operations at the site.

Meanwhile, oil producers in the Gulf have begun cutting output as tankers struggle to move through Hormuz. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait have both started reducing production after storage facilities began filling up when exports could not leave the region.

Aluminum, precious metals markets feel the shock

Aluminium Bahrain BSC has invoked force majeure on some shipments after maritime traffic through Hormuz effectively stalled. The company said the measure was tied to transit disruptions rather than damage to its smelter operations.

The announcement sent aluminum prices sharply higher. Futures in London surged to their highest level since 2022, rising as much as 5.1 percent during trading before settling higher on the day.

The aluminum market is particularly sensitive to supply disruptions because the metal is used across a wide range of industries, including automotive manufacturing, construction, appliances and packaging. Even short interruptions can create shortages for manufacturers that rely on tightly timed deliveries of specialized metal products.

Mining financier Robert Friedland, founder of Ivanhoe Mines (TSX:IVN,OTCQX:IVPAF), warned that the broader consequences of a prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could extend far beyond the Gulf region.

“Further to what we said about the impact that the closing of the Strait of Hormuz has on the sulphur market… and therefore African copper production… Craig Tindale maps out that this is only one small piece of a giant and critically important 3D jigsaw,” Friedland wrote on X.

“Everything affects everything, everywhere, all of the time.”

Meanwhile, precious metals markets are also feeling the effects of the conflict. Air traffic across much of the Gulf region has been curtailed since US and Israeli strikes on Iran began earlier this week, halting most flights in and out of Dubai.

Dubai, one of the world’s most important hubs for bullion logistics, handled roughly 20 percent of global gold shipments last year, serving as a key transit point for metal moving from Africa and Europe to Asian markets.

With flights grounded, traders say shipments of gold and silver have stalled across several trading centers.

“Gold availability has become a concern following the suspension of flights from the Middle East,” said John Reade, senior market strategist at the World Gold Council (WGC).

Some traders say prolonged disruptions could increase volatility in precious metals markets that have already seen sharp price swings this year. Gold recently surged to record levels above US$5,400 per ounce amid geopolitical tensions before easing slightly this week.

Even after the pullback, prices remain nearly 20 percent higher since the start of the year.

Geopolitical turmoil drive metals market swings

Jeffrey Christian, managing partner at CPM Group, said geopolitical instability has been a major driver of investor demand for gold and silver.

“That has caused investors to buy more gold and silver than ever before.”

Christian added that high prices and volatility can also create bottlenecks in the physical metals market.

“You have to understand that with the high prices and the high volatility, that really puts a constraint… on the flow of physical metal through the market,” he said.

For now, the biggest question facing commodity markets is how long disruptions in the Persian Gulf will last.

The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to most commercial shipping, leaving hundreds of oil and gas tankers anchored outside the passage while governments consider military escorts to reopen the route.

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

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Fathom Nickel Inc. (CSE: FNI,OTC:FNICF) (FSE: 6Q5) (OTCQB: FNICF) (‘Fathom’, or the ‘Company’) is pleased to announce that the winter drill program at the Gochager Lake project commenced late in the day of March 6, 2026. Drilling is expected to continue into the first or second week of April, dependent upon prevailing winter conditions.

Ian Fraser, Fathom CEO and VP Exploration stated, ‘Our field crews worked very hard over the course of the past two months to ensure the trail and ice conditions were safe to transport the diamond drill and ancillary equipment to site for the start of this program. With the winter trail now in place, we will eliminate our reliance on helicopter support, resulting in an expected 30% to 35% reduction in total drilling cost per meter. This increased cost efficiency will allow us to drill more meters and, ultimately, more holes in comparison to historical, heli-supported drill programs. This drill program is now well underway, and we look forward to testing along strike of the historic Gochager Lake deposit for more Gochager-like mineralization.’

The Company is fully funded to complete the proposed drill program of up to 4,000 meters. In the event that the full drill program is not completed before spring break-up in mid-April, we intend to return to Gochager in late May/early June to complete the full 3,000-to-4,000-meter program.

Qualified Person and Data Verification

Ian Fraser, P.Geo., CEO, VP Exploration and a Director of the Company and the ‘qualified person’ as such term is defined by National Instrument 43-101, has verified the data disclosed in this news release, and has otherwise reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release on behalf of the Company.

About Fathom Nickel Inc.

Fathom is an exploration company that is targeting magmatic nickel sulphide discoveries to secure the supply of North American Critical Minerals and to support the global green energy transition. The Company now has a portfolio of three high-quality exploration projects located in the prolific Trans Hudson Corridor in Saskatchewan:

1) The Albert Lake Project, a 90,000+ hectare project that hosts the historic Rottenstone Mine1. Fathom exploration to date at the Albert Lake project confirms:

  • The high-grade Ni-Cu-Co+3E1 Rottenstone deposit mineralization extends to the south a minimum 40m and remains open.
  • The Rottenstone deposit is potentially offset and continues within the footwall of a prominent fault defined by drilling.
  • A new Rottenstone-like discovery (similar host rock, and similar mineralization) by drilling 500-550m W-NW of the historic mine; the 300+m Bay Island Trend, remains open along strike.
  • Similar Rottenstone-like host rock and mineralization intersected by drilling approximately 1.5km S-SW of the historic mine (the Nic5-Tremblay-Olson area).

2) The 33,000+ hectare Gochager Lake Project that hosts the historic Gochager Lake deposit2. Fathom exploration to date at the Gochager Lake project confirms:

  • Vertical extension of Ni-Cu-Co mineralization a minimum of 150m below the historic Gochager Lake deposit interpreted boundary, and very good potential for expansion of mineralization in all directions.
  • Multiple high-grade vertically oriented Ni-Cu-Co sulphide breccia mineralization zones and chutes occur within the historic deposit, and the zones, chutes remain open for further expansion and delineation in all directions.
  • Surface mapping and rock geochemistry has confirmed the Gochager Lake deposit host/container rock extends 3.5+ km along strike east-northeast of the deposit.
  • Soil geochemistry has defined a favourable geochemical footprint, inclusive of the historic deposit, that now extends 8.6+ km.

3) The 10,000+ hectare Friesen Lake Project located 40km southwest of the historic Rottenstone Mine and 30km northwest of the historic Gochager Lake deposit.

The Friesen Lake property hosts the Olsen Cu-Ni-Pt Showing also referred to as the Friesen Lake Cu-Ni-Pt showing and is described as an ultramafic dyke that historic trenching and drilling demonstrates Cu-Ni-Pt-Pd and Au mineralization within the ultramafic dyke (Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index (SMID) #0928a). To date Fathom has not performed any exploration at the Friesen Lake Project.

1 – The Rottenstone Mine; a small open-pit mining / milling operation was in production 1965-1969. Mining in 1965 produced 5,500 short tons with a reported average production grade of 3.23% Ni, 1.83% Cu, 0.14 oz/ton Pt, 0.10 oz/ton Pd, 0.03 oz/ton Au (9.26 g/t*3E, 3E = Pd-Pt+Au) and 0.20 oz/ton Ag. Initial milling of mine concentrate; September 5 – November 7, 1965, produced 1,070 dry short tons of concentrate that averaged 10.83% Ni, 5.74% Cu, 0.33 oz/ton Pt, 0.53 oz/ton Pd, 0.10 oz/ ton Au (32.91 g/t* 3E) and 1.25 oz/ton Ag. Richards, B.R. and Robinson, B.G.W. (1966), Mining and milling a small ore deposit …. Rottenstone Mining Limited: The Canadian Mining and Metallurgical Bulleting for December 1966. The Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index (SMDI) #0958 reports final mine production in 1969 of 28,724 tons with an average grade of 3.28% Ni, 1.83% Cu and 9.63 g/t 3E and that approximately 9,000 tons of concentrate were sold to the International Nickel Company of Canada Limited. * A factor of 34.286 g/tonne was used to convert 1 oz/ton to g/tonne (g/t).

2 – The Gochager Lake property is host to the historic Gochager Lake Ni-Cu deposit. There is no source or available Technical Reports to verify the historic resource estimate for the Gochager Lake deposit; hence, Fathom will treat the historic estimate as an Exploration Target. Available records in the Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index (SMDI) and Saskatchewan Mineral Assessment Database (SMAD) suggest an Exploration Target of 4-5 million tons grading 0.3% Ni – 0.4% Ni and 0.08% Cu – 0.09% Cu. The potential quantity and grade are conceptual in nature, there has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource, and that it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource. At present, Fathom has drilled 16 drillholes (5,549m) into the historic Gochager Lake deposit and has confirmed Ni-Cu grades comparable to and higher than the historical grades reported, thus confirming that a deposit of Ni-Cu+Co metal accumulation does exist at the historic Gochager Lake deposit / property. The disclosed potential quantity and grade has been determined by historic records notably; the Saskatchewan Mineral Deposit Index and Saskatchewan Mineral Assessment Database. (SMDI #0880) reports delineation drilling outlined a deposit at the historic Gochager Lake Deposit; Steel, J.S. (1990), (SMAD 73P15-0091): Report on a Diamond Drilling Program on the Gallagher (Gochager) Lake Property of McNickel Inc., reported that Scurry-Rainbow Oil Ltd. constructed vertical sections and a longitudinal section from drill data collected 1966-1968, and an orebody with reasonably well-defined limits was interpreted. As stated above, the historic estimate is not well documented and there are no available Technical Reports to support the historic resource estimate(s).

For further information, please contact:

Ian Fraser, Chief Executive Officer & Vice-President Exploration
1-403-650-9760
Email: ifraser@fathomnickel.com

or

Doug Porter, President & CFO
1-403-870-4349
Email: dporter@fathomnickel.com

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains ‘forward-looking statements’ that are based on expectations, estimates, projections and interpretations as at the date of this news release. Forward-looking statements are frequently characterized by words such as ‘plan’, ‘expect’, ‘project’, ‘seek’, ‘intend’, ‘believe’, ‘anticipate’, ‘estimate’, ‘suggest’, ‘indicate’ and other similar words or statements that certain events or conditions ‘may’ or ‘will’ occur. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. Any statements that express predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance are not statements of historical fact and may be ‘forward-looking statements.’ Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate financing on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company’s expectations; risks related to commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company’s prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company’s disclosure record. Such forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These forward- looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Actual events or results could differ materially from the Company’s expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/287717

News Provided by TMX Newsfile via QuoteMedia

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/NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES/

1911 Gold Corporation (‘1911 Gold’ or the ‘Company’) (TSXV: AUMB) (OTCQX: AUMBF) (FRA: 2KY) is pleased to announce that, further to the news release dated February 20, 2026, the Company has closed the initial drawdown of US$15 million (the ‘Tranche 1 Amount’) under the loan agreement dated February 19, 2026 (the ‘Loan Agreement’) with Auramet International, Inc. (‘Auramet’), which provides for a US$30 million secured credit facility (the ‘Credit Facility’). It is anticipated that the proceeds from the Credit Facility, including the Tranche 1 Amount, will be used to advance critical operational milestones at the True North Gold Project, specifically providing the capital required to purchase essential mining equipment, underground development at the True North mine, and the installation of the new crushing circuit at the mill.

The outstanding principal amount under the Credit Facility accrues interest at a rate of 12% per annum calculated and payable monthly in arrears on the last business day of each calendar month; provided, however, that no interest shall accrue on the Tranche 1 Amount for a period of six months following the closing date of the initial drawdown of the Tranche 1 Amount (the ‘Closing Date‘). The Tranche 1 Amount shall be amortized and repaid to Auramet in 12 equal monthly instalments of US$1.25 million commencing on the date that is 13 months following the Closing Date and ending on the date that is 24 months following the Closing Date (the ‘Maturity Date‘).

The obligations under the Loan Agreement are secured by a first-ranking security interest on all personal property of the Company and a continuing collateral mortgage against the Company’s True North Gold Project and Rice Lake exploration properties. The Loan Agreement includes terms and conditions customary for a transaction of this nature, including certain specified positive and negative covenants and mandatory prepayment terms.

Subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions precedent, the remaining US$15 million of the Credit Facility will be made available during the period commencing on the date that is 90 days following the Closing Date and ending on the date that is 180 days following the Closing Date.

In consideration for the arrangement of the Credit Facility, on the Closing Date, the Company paid Auramet an arrangement fee of US$1,050,000, representing 3.5% of the aggregate principal amount of the Credit Facility, which fee was satisfied by the issuance of 1,369,600 common shares in the capital of the Company (‘Common Shares‘) at a deemed price of C$1.05 per Common Share. Additionally, in consideration for the lending of the Tranche 1 Amount, on the Closing Date, the Company paid Auramet a drawdown fee of US$375,000, representing 2.5% of the Tranche 1 Amount, which fee was satisfied by the issuance of 489,142 Common Shares at a deemed price of C$1.05 per Common Share, and issued to Auramet 4,500,000 common share purchase warrants of the Company (the ‘Tranche 1 Warrants‘), with each Tranche 1 Warrant exercisable to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price equal to C$1.07 per Common Share, representing a 10% premium to the 5-day volume-weighted average price of the Common Shares on the TSXV for the five consecutive trading days ending on (and including) the date of the Loan Agreement, with such Tranche 1 Warrants expiring on the Maturity Date, subject to acceleration.

The Common Shares and the Tranche 1 Warrants issuable pursuant to the Loan Agreement and the Common Shares underlying the Tranche 1 Warrants are subject to a four-month statutory hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws, which will expire on July 10, 2026.

The securities issuable pursuant to the Loan Agreement 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 U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons absent registration under the U.S. Securities Act and all applicable state securities laws or compliance with the requirements of an applicable exemption therefrom. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Auramet

Auramet is a private company established in 2004 by seasoned professionals who have assembled a global team of industry specialists with over 400 years combined industry experience. It is one of the largest physical precious metals merchants in the world and has provided over $1.5 billion in term financing facilities to date. Auramet offers a full range of services, including physical metals trading, metals merchant banking (including direct lending), and project finance advisory services to all participants in the precious metals supply chain.

About 1911 Gold Corporation

1911 Gold is an advanced gold explorer and developer focused on its 100%-owned True North Gold Project in the Archean Rice Lake Greenstone Belt in Manitoba, Canada. The Company controls a large, highly prospective ~62,000-hectare land package with numerous past-producing gold operations within trucking distance of the fully built and permitted True North mine and mill complex. 1911 Gold is positioning itself to restart operations in 2027 and offers a unique, near-term production opportunity with significant exploration upside. The strategy is to build a district-scale gold mining operation around a centralized, and readily expandable infrastructure to support a socially and environmentally responsible, long-term mining operation with little development risk and a growing mineral resource base.

1911 Gold’s True North complex and the exploration land package are located within and among the First Nation communities of the Hollow Water First Nation and the Black River First Nation. 1911 Gold looks forward to maintaining open, cooperative, and respectful communications with all of our local communities and stakeholders to foster mutually beneficial working relationships.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Shaun Heinrichs
President and CEO

www.1911gold.com

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This news release contains forward-looking information or forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively, ‘forward-looking statements‘). Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words and phrases such as ‘plans’, ‘expects’ or ‘does not expect’, ‘is expected’, ‘budget’, ‘scheduled’, ‘estimates’, ‘forecasts’, ‘intends’, ‘anticipates’ or ‘does not anticipate’, or ‘believes’, or that describe a ‘goal’, or variations of such words and phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results ‘may’, ‘could’, ‘would’, ‘might’ or ‘will’ be taken, occur or be achieved.

All statements that address expectations or projections about the future, including, but not limited to, statements about the use of proceeds of the Credit Facility, including the Tranche 1 Amount, the timing and ability of the Company to satisfy the conditions precedent in respect of the drawdown of the remaining principal amount under the Credit Facility and the Company’s objectives, goals and future plans and strategies, are forward-looking statements. 

All forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s beliefs and assumptions based on information available at the time the statements were made. Actual results or events may differ from those predicted in these forward-looking statements. All of the Company’s forward-looking statements are qualified by the assumptions that are stated or inherent in such forward-looking statements, including the assumptions listed below. Although the Company believes that these assumptions are reasonable, this list is not exhaustive of factors that may affect any of the forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, future events, conditions, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, predictions, projections, forecasts, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the Company’s inability to satisfy the conditions precedent in respect of the drawdown of the remaining principal amount under the Credit Facility and the Company’s inability to repay the Credit Facility or comply with the covenants set out in the Loan Agreement.

Although 1911 Gold has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are given as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

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

SOURCE 1911 Gold Corporation

View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/March2026/09/c6182.html

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Nicola Mining Inc. (TSXV: NIM,OTC:HUSIF) (OTCQB: HUSIF) (FSE: HLIA) (the ‘Company’ or ‘Nicola’) is pleased to provide an update on its proposed NASDAQ listing, which it originally disclosed in its news release of October 27, 2025. There are approximately 220 Canadian companies trading via cross listing in the United States1; however, Nicola hopes to be one of the first Canadian companies to list via American Depositary Receipts (‘ADRs’)2. The rational of pioneering the structure is explained below.

Listing ADRs on NASDAQ offers foreign companies a strategic pathway to U.S. capital markets while preserving their existing capital structure on their home exchange, such as the Toronto Stock Exchange or the TSX Venture Exchange. Unlike a reverse share consolidation undertaken solely to meet minimum price thresholds, an ADR program allows a foreign company to establish an ADR-to-ordinary-share ratio that achieves the required trading price without altering the underlying share count. This structure avoids the negative market optics frequently associated with rollbacks and preserves the integrity of a foreign company’s capital structure.

Key advantages include:

  • No need for a reverse split: ADR ratios can be structured (e.g., 1 ADR representing multiple common shares) to achieve NASDAQ price requirements.
  • Preservation of capital structure: Existing shares, warrants, options and convertible instruments remain unchanged.
  • Improved market perception: Avoiding a rollback reduces the stigma often associated with distressed or low-priced issuers.

ADRs also provide operational and market-structure advantages by enabling dual-market liquidity and facilitating access to U.S. investors while maintaining a foreign company’s primary listing. Because ADRs are issued through a depositary bank that holds the underlying shares, a foreign company can expand its investor base without restructuring its domestic listing. This dual-trading framework allows Canadian and international investors to continue trading the ordinary common shares while U.S. investors transact in ADRs denominated in U.S. dollars. Important benefits include:

  • Broader investor access: U.S. institutional investors can purchase ADRs through familiar U.S. market infrastructure.
  • Maintenance of home-market liquidity: Trading continues on the Canadian exchange alongside the NASDAQ ADR listing.
  • Administrative simplicity: The ADR program is administered by a depositary bank (commonly institutions such as BNY Mellon, JPMorgan Chase, or Citibank), reducing the need for structural changes to a foreign company’s share capital.

Nicola is currently subject to review by NASDAQ under Rule IM-5101-3, a new interpretive rule adopted by NASDAQ in December 2025 that significantly expands NASDAQ’s discretionary authority to deny a company’s initial listing even if it meets all quantitative listing requirements.

Previously, companies that satisfied the formal listing requirements-such as minimum share price, market capitalization, shareholder count, and corporate governance standards- expected to receive approval to list on NASDAQ. The adoption of Rule IM-5101-3 changes this framework by allowing NASDAQ to conduct a qualitative risk assessment and reject a listing if it believes the security could be susceptible to manipulation or other market integrity risks.

Peter Espig, CEO of Nicola, stated, ‘Nicola, its legal team, and NASDAQ continue to work sedulously towards assuring a sound structure as we move forward with this strategic structure. We remain committed to prudently move forward in a structure beneficial to the US markets while striving for stability to our Canadian shareholders.’

About Nicola Mining

Nicola Mining Inc. is a junior mining company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange and Frankfurt Exchange that maintains a 100% owned mill and tailings facility, located near Merritt, British Columbia It has signed Mining and Milling Profit Share Agreements with high grade gold projects. Nicola’s fully permitted mill can process both gold and silver mill feed via gravity and flotation processes.

The Company owns 100% of the New Craigmont Project, a high-grade copper property, which covers an area of over 10,800 hectares along the southern end of the Guichon Batholith and is adjacent to Highland Valley Copper, Canada’s largest copper mine. The Company also owns 100% of the Treasure Mountain Property, which is a fully-permitted high grade silver mine and includes 30 mineral claims and a mineral lease, spanning an area exceeding 2,200 hectares.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Peter Espig

Peter Espig
CEO & Director

For additional information

Contact: Peter Espig
Phone: (778) 385-1213
Email: info@nicolamining.com
URL: www.nicolamining.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains ‘forward-looking statements’ within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of present or historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and assumptions and accordingly, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the proposed listing of ADRs on Nasdaq and the benefits from the listing of ADRs on Nasdaq.

Forward-looking statements are based upon certain assumptions and other key factors that, if untrue, could cause actual results to be materially different from future results expressed or implied by such statements. Key assumptions upon which the Company’s forward-looking information is based include, without limitation, the ability to obtain required regulatory approvals for the proposed listing of ADRs on Nasdaq. Forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties facing the Company’s business, including, without limitation, the risk that the Company may not receive the required regulatory approvals for the proposed listing of ADRs on Nasdaq.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, and even if events or results described in the forward-looking statements are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, Nicola. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty to forward-looking statements.

THE FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS PRESS RELEASE REPRESENTS THE EXPECTATIONS OF NICOLA AS OF THE DATE OF THIS PRESS RELEASE AND, ACCORDINGLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AFTER SUCH DATE. READERS SHOULD NOT PLACE UNDUE IMPORTANCE ON FORWARD- LOOKING INFORMATION AND SHOULD NOT RELY UPON THIS INFORMATION AS OF ANY OTHER DATE. WHILE NICOLA MAY ELECT TO, IT DOES NOT UNDERTAKE TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AT ANY PARTICULAR TIME, WHETHER AS A RESULT OF NEW INFORMATION, FUTURE EVENTS OR OTHERWISE, EXCEPT AS REQUIRED IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS.

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

_________________________
1 Source: Mandarin Capital Link and Investopedia Link
2 ADR definition: Link

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/287693

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Byron King, editor at Paradigm Press, shares his approach to the gold and silver sectors as tensions in the Middle East intensify, also touching on oil and gas.

Overall he sees hard assets becoming increasingly key as global uncertainty escalates.

‘Own gold, own silver — physically own the metal for your own benefit,’ said King.

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

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

Garrett Goggin, founder of Golden Portfolio, says although gold and silver haven’t gone mainstream yet, the metals — and the mining sector overall — have entered a new era.

‘It’s a real mind shift — it’s a new era in mining right here,’ he said.

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

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

Jaime Carrasco, senior portfolio manager and senior financial advisor at Harbourfront Wealth Management, shares his outlook for gold and silver, saying prices must rise much higher.

He also talks about how to build a strong precious metals portfolio.

‘We’re moving from a credit-based economy, a bubble that is blowing up, to a resource-based economy — and that’s very healthy going forward,’ Carrasco said.

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

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

After-tax NPV(8%) of $473M (US$346.6M) and 2.2-year payback from start of production with IRR of 48.8% at US$1,000/mtu WO3

Key Highlights:

  • Additional Payback Metrics: Payback1 of approximately 2.2 years from commencement of commercial production corresponding to approximately 4.2 years from start of construction under the medium / US$1,000/mtu WO₃2 case.

  • Capital Efficient Development: Initial capital cost3 of approximately $124.2 million (USD $91 million), with a compact infrastructure layout designed to support efficient underground mining and processing operations.

  • Strong Annual Cash Flow Generation: Average annual revenue of approximately $252,517 million (US$184,886 million), average annual EBITDA of approximately $142,181 million (US$104,101 million), and average annual free cash flow of approximately $96,279 million (US$70,493 million) over the initial mine plan at US$1,000/mtu WO₃.4

  • Integrated Infrastructure Design: Project infrastructure includes planned hydro electric power connection, water supply and recycling systems, road access, and paste backfill integration to support operations while minimizing environmental footprint.

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

  • Resource Growth Underway: Fully funded 20,000-metre drill program continues to target resource expansion, confidence conversion and potential mine life extension beyond the initial 11-year production plan, targeting resource expansion and confidence conversion.

All amounts in Canadian dollars unless stated otherwise.4

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – March 9, 2026) – Allied Critical Metals Inc. (CSE: ACM,OTC:ACMIF) (OTCQB: ACMIF) (FSE: 0VJ0) (‘Allied‘ or the ‘Company‘) is pleased to provide additional economic and technical detail from the recently announced Preliminary Economic Assessment (‘PEA’) for its 100%-owned Borralha Tungsten Project (‘Borralha’ or the ‘Project’) in northern Portugal. The Project’s previously announced PEA economics remain unchanged.

Roy Bonnell, CEO & Director of Allied, commented: ‘Following the release of our initial Borralha PEA, we received strong investor interest in additional project-level detail. This supplementary disclosure highlights the Project’s capital efficiency, strong annual cash generation and well-developed infrastructure platform. Importantly, the underlying economics of the PEA remain unchanged, while the additional payback presentation provides another useful reference point for investors evaluating project returns and the strong leverage Borralha has to tungsten prices.’

This additional disclosure provides greater clarity on Borralha’s capital efficiency, expected cash flow generation and rapid capital recovery profile. The Borralha PEA outlines a capital-efficient underground tungsten development project within the European Union, demonstrating strong economic returns across a range of tungsten price assumptions and significant leverage to current market prices.

The Borralha PEA continues to demonstrate a technically robust and capital-efficient underground tungsten development project within the European Union. As previously announced, the PEA was evaluated under three pricing frameworks: the Base case of $962/mtu WO₃ (US$704/mtu WO₃), $1,365/mtu WO₃ (US$1,000/mtu WO₃), and $2,049/mtu WO₃ (US$1,500/mtu WO₃), while mine design and cut-off grade selection were developed using a conservative tungsten price assumption of $900/mtu WO₃ (US$659/mtu WO₃). The Company is providing the additional metrics below to facilitate investor understanding of project capital intensity, cash flow generation and payback presentation.

For additional reference, the Company is presenting payback under two different measurement bases. The previously disclosed payback metrics were measured from the start of construction (SC), consistent with standard technical study practice. To facilitate comparison with industry benchmarks, the Company is also providing indicative payback measured from the commencement of commercial production (CCP).

Table 1 – Economic Results (After-Tax)

Scenario Price1 NPV (8%)2 IRR3 Payback SC4 Payback CCP4
Medium $1,365/mtu
(USD $1,000/mtu)
$473.4M
(USD $346.6M)
48.8% 2.2 years 4.2 years
Base $962/mtu
(USD $704/mtu)
$182.7M
(USD $134.0M)
27.2% 3.8 years 5.8 years
High $2,049/mtu
(USD $1,500/mtu)
$963.8M
(USD $706.4M)
78.4% 1.2 years 3.2 years

 
Notes:

  1. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV. M = million.
  2. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
  3. Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.

Payback measured from the start of construction reflects recovery of initial capital over the full development and operating timeline, while payback measured from the start of commercial production excludes the construction phase and is presented for comparative reference only.

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

In the Base Case scenario, tungsten (WO₃) represents approximately 96% of project NPV, with minor contributions from copper (~3%) and tin (<1%), based on NSR contribution. This highlights that the Borralha Project economics are overwhelmingly driven by tungsten.

For reference, current reported tungsten market prices remain materially above the US$1,000 per mtu sensitivity case presented in the PEA, reaching approximately $2,998 per mtu (US$2,195 per mtu) as of March 6, 2026 (Source: Fastmarkets).

Mineral Resource Estimate

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

Under the 2025 MRE, the Santa Helena Breccia has been tested by 41 drill holes and surface trenching over approximately 400 meters of strike length and to depths exceeding 350 meters below surface. Mineralization remains open along strike and at depth. The cut-off grade of 0.09% WO3was selected based on reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction under conceptual underground mining and gravity-dominant processing assumptions, including a very conservative tungsten price of USD$ 550/mtu WO₃ and assumed recovery of approximately 80% (for MRE cut-off determination only).

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

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

 

Initial Capital Allocation and Operational Costs

The Borralha PEA estimates initial capital7 of approximately US$91 million, with sustaining capital8 of approximately US$87 million and total life-of-mine capital9 of approximately US$178 million. The initial capital requirement reflects a compact project design integrating underground mine development, process plant construction and site infrastructure.

Table 3 – Initial Capital Costs

Category CAD$M* US$M
Underground development 21.6 15.8
Processing plant 23.1 16.9
Paste backfill plant 5.9 4.3
Surface infrastructure 6.7 4.9
Power connection 9.8 7.2
EPCM / indirect costs** 16.4 12.0
Contingency 6.0 4.4
Tax incentives 34.3 25.1
Subtotal Initial Capital 123.7 91.5

 
*Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.
**EPCM = Engineering, Procurement, and Construction Management.

Certain development expenditures may also qualify for applicable Portuguese investment tax incentives, which could partially offset initial capital expenditures.

Table 4 – Operating Cost10 Breakdown

Cost Category US$/t Processed
Mining 41.2
Processing 13.2
G&A 5.0
Transport 0.02
TC/RC* 0.51
Total Operating Cost** 59.3

 
*TC/RC = Treatment Changes and Refining Charges. These are fees paid by mining companies to smelters to process raw material concentrate into refined metal.
**Operating costs for life-of-mine used for mine design average approximately US$49/t processed, based on the Sub-Level Long Hole Stoping (SLOS) mining method. Limited areas may utilize Drift & Fill mining, which carries higher unit costs. In the economic model, operating costs are expressed in nominal US dollars and escalated annually for inflation, resulting in an average life of mine operating cost of approximately US$59/t processed, including transportation and treatment/refining charges.

Concentrate Marketing Assumptions

The PEA assumes production of a marketable tungsten concentrate grading approximately 65% WO₃ using a gravity-dominant flowsheet. Concentrate pricing assumptions are based on industry-standard tungsten concentrate marketing structures, incorporating typical 80% payability terms and treatment charges applicable to the tungsten market.

The Project benefits from relatively clean mineralogy dominated by wolframite, which generally reduces impurity-related penalties relative to more complex tungsten concentrates.

Capital Efficiency

The relatively modest initial capital requirement reflects several favourable project characteristics, including:

  • compact underground mining footprint
  • gravity-dominant processing flowsheet
  • access to regional infrastructure including grid power
  • limited earthworks due to site topography
  • moderate plant throughput of 1.4 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of mineralized material
  • potential Portuguese investment incentives

These factors contribute to a capital-efficient development scenario compared with many global tungsten projects.

Simplified Annual Cash Flow Metrics

The initial Borralha mine plan is expected to generate strong annual cash flow11 supported by life-of-mine average production of approximately 1,708 tonnes WO₃ per annum, a nominal processing rate of 1.4 Mtpa, and an average mill feed grade of approximately 0.20% WO₃.

Table 5 – Cash-Flow11 Table

Cash Flow Metric Base Case
US$704/mtu WO₃
Medium Case
US$1,000/mtu WO₃
High Case
US$1,500/mtu WO₃
Average annual revenue 131,749 184,886 274,686
Average annual EBITDA 53,374 104,101 189,860
Average annual pre-tax operating cash flow 40,405 91,132 176,890
Average annual free cash flow 35,815 70,493 128,785
Life-of-mine revenue 1,449,234 2,033,747 3,021,554
Life-of-mine free cash flow 393,973 775,428 1,416,640

 

Infrastructure and Site Requirements

The Borralha Project benefits from favourable site conditions and access to existing regional infrastructure, supporting a capital-efficient development.

Surface infrastructure has been designed to concentrate industrial and administrative facilities within a compact footprint, minimizing environmental disturbance while ensuring operational efficiency. The process plant, paste backfill facility, workshops, administrative buildings and support infrastructure will be located on a centralized platform adjacent to the orebody.

Access to the site will utilize existing regional roads connected to the municipal road CM1025-2. Dedicated routes for light and heavy vehicles have been designed to ensure safe operations while minimizing earthworks and environmental impact.

A comprehensive water management system has been designed to support mining and processing operations. Water supply is expected to be sourced from local groundwater and surface water resources, with water recycling integrated into the process flowsheet. Three retention basins will provide operational water storage, sedimentation and environmental control.

Electrical power will be supplied through connection to the Portuguese national grid via a planned 60 kV overhead line linking the Borralha substation to the SE Frades (REN) substation over approximately 6.5 km. The design complies with applicable national standards and incorporates environmental protection measures.

The project infrastructure design integrates processing, backfill, water management and power supply systems to support efficient underground mining operations while minimizing environmental impact.

Key Infrastructure Advantages

  • Grid power connection (60 kV line – 6.5 km)
  • Local groundwater and surface water available for operations
  • Existing regional road access to site
  • Compact site layout minimizing environmental footprint
  • Paste backfill and water recycling integrated into plant design

Ongoing Growth Strategy

The current initial PEA is based only on the Santa Helena Breccia deposit and an initial 11-year production plan. The Company’s fully funded 20,000-metre drill program is underway and is targeting:

  • expansion of the current Mineral Resource;
  • conversion of Inferred Mineral Resources into higher-confidence categories;
  • potential extension of mine life beyond the initial plan; and
  • evaluation of throughput optimization and future project scale growth.

The Company intends to continue advancing Borralha through additional drilling, engineering optimization, metallurgical refinement, geotechnical and hydrogeological studies, and progression toward the next stage of technical study.

Qualified Persons

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

J. Douglas Blanchflower, P.Geo.

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

David Castro López, BSc, MIMMM, QMR

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

Miguel Cabal, EurGeol, Licensed Geologist

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

Vítor Arezes, BSc, MIMMM, QMR

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

About Allied Critical Metals Inc.

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

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

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

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

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

‘Roy Bonnell’
CEO and Director

Additional information is also available by contacting the Company:

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

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

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

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

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

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

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

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

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

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

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

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

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

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

Initial capital – is the initial capital cost amount required to be expended to construct the mine and tungsten concentrator process equipment and buildings to begin processing mineralized material into saleable tungsten concentrate at commercial quantities according to the life of mine plan at the Borralha Project. Table 3 above provides a breakdown of the initial capital costs. This is an estimate accurate to +/-35%.

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

Capital costs or Total life of mine capital costs – include the Initial capital and the sustaining capital.

Operating costs – are the costs required to process mineralized material into saleable tungsten concentrate at the Borralha Project. This includes: underground mining; processing and plant operations; general and administrative costs; and site services and infrastructure support (see Table 4 above for a breakdown of the operating costs). This can be calculated on the unit basis per mtu WO3 produced.

Cash flow – includes average annual revenue, average annual EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization), average annual pre-tax cash flow, average annual free cash flow, life of mine revenue, life of mine free cash flow. Average annual revenue is the average annual gross revenue over the life of mine. Average annual EBITDA is the average annual EBITDA over the life of mine. Average annual pre-tax cash flow is the average over the life of mine of the annual free cash flow prior to deduction of taxes. Life of mine revenue is the total gross revenue over the life of mine. Life of mine free cash flow is the total free cash flow over the life of mine. Free cash flows are revenues net of operating costs, royalties, working capital adjustments, capital expenditures and cash taxes. The Company believes that this measure is useful to readers in assessing the Company’s ability to generate cash flows from Borralha.

All-In Sustaining Costs (AISC) – are comprised of sustaining capital expenditures and site level costs to support ongoing operations and closure costs. All-in sustaining costs per mtu WO3 is calculated as AISC divided by the amount of mtu WO3 produced during the period that the costs are incurred. All-in sustaining costs capture the important components of the Company’s production and related costs and are used by the Company and investors to understand projected cost performance at the Borralha Project. Adoption of the all-in sustaining cost metric is voluntary and not necessarily standard, and therefore, this measure presented by the Company may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. The Company believes that the all-in sustaining cost measure complements existing measures and ratios reported by the Company. All-in sustaining cost includes both operating and capital costs required to sustain WO3 production on an ongoing basis. Sustaining operating costs represents expenditures expected to be incurred at the Project that are considered necessary to maintain production. Sustaining capital represents expected capital expenditures comprising mine development costs, including capitalized waste, and ongoing replacement of mine equipment and other capital facilities, and does not include expected capital expenditures for major growth projects or enhancement capital for significant infrastructure improvements.

1 Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. See notes below for additional information regarding payback.
2 mtu/WO3 = metric tonne unit of tungsten; WO3 is tungsten trioxide.
3 Initial capital cost is a Non-GAAP measure. See Table 3 below for a breakdown of the costs and the notes below for additional information regarding initial capital cost.
4 Average annual revenue, average annual EBITDA, and average annual free cash flow are Non-GAAP measures. See notes below for additional information.
5 NPV(8%) = net present value at a 8% discount rate. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV. USD = United States dollars. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.
6 IRR = internal rate of return. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
7 Initial capital cost is a Non-GAAP measure. See Table 3 above for a breakdown of the costs and the notes below for additional information regarding initial capital cost.
8 Sustaining capital is a Non-GAAP measure. See notes below for additional information regarding sustaining capital.
9 Total life of mine capital cost is a Non-GAAP measure. See notes below for additional information regarding total life of mine capital cost.
10 Operating cost is a Non-GAAP measure. See Table 4 for a breakdown of the Operating Costs and the notes below for additional information regarding Operating Cost.
11 Cash flow is a Non-GAAP measure. See Table 5 for a breakdown of the cash flow and the notes below for additional information regarding cash flow.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/287858

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Norwegian police are investigating an attack on the U.S. Embassy in Oslo that caused no injuries and only minor damage.

Amid the war on Iran, the Norwegian Justice Minister Astri Aas-Hansen is deploying ‘considerable resources’ to search for potential multiple perpetrators.

‘This is an unacceptable incident that we are taking very seriously,’ she told Norwegian press agency NTB.

A ‘loud bang’ was reported at the U.S. embassy in Oslo early Sunday morning at 1 a.m. local time (Saturday 7 p.m. ET), according to police, and eyewitnesses told Reuters that they saw thick smoke by the entrance of the consular section.

‘There was a very thick layer of smoke on the street,’ said Sebastian Toerstad, 18, a high school student who drove past the embassy at the time of the explosion.

‘There was some damage to the entrance.’

No explosive devices had been found in the area, according to police.

‘Investigations have been carried out at the scene with the aid of dogs, drones and a helicopter, searching for one or more potential perpetrators,’ the Oslo police department said in a statement.

PST, the Norwegian police security service, called in additional personnel following the incident but has not changed the country’s terror threat level, according to communication adviser Martin Bernsen.

PST operations manager Mikael Dellemyr does not ‘connect’ the attack to U.S. bombings in the Middle East or terrorist or Iranian retaliation.

‘It is far too early’ in the investigation, he told Oslo’s TV 2.

Fox News Digital reached out to the State Department for comment, but they did not immediately respond.

The Associated Press and Reuters contributed to this report.

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