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Nuvau’s Gold-Focused Exploration Program Underway at Matagami

Investing 7 Mins Read

Visible gold found in first hole—assays are pending

Nuvau Minerals Inc. (TSXV: NMC) has launched its gold-focused exploration program at its Matagami Property where the first hole drilled intersected what appears to be an orogenic lode gold system close to the Bracemac McLeod Mine in Matagami. Assays are pending after Nuvau intersected visible gold in a structure intersected in the first hole.

‘We are extremely encouraged by the success of the initial hole of our maiden gold focused diamond drill program on this 1,300 square kilometre land package,’ said Peter Van Alphen, Nuvau’s CEO. ‘The footwall rock units where this new vein intercept occurs is in a largely untested part of the property, in an area not deemed favourable for base metal mineralization. In addition, this mineralized zone is located less than 25 metres from the mine access ramp at the permitted Bracemac McLeod Mine.’

The steeply dipping, strong shear zone structure with quartz veining mineralized with pyrite and locally visible gold was intersected at a depth of approximately 200 metres below surface. Although it is within the footwall stratigraphy of the past-producing Bracemac McLeod mine, the area has seen very little drilling in the past as it was not of interest for VMS type exploration. Planning is underway for the follow up drilling which is expected to begin within the next two weeks.

Figure 1: Past producing Bracemac McLeod Mine and relative position of gold target drilled

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
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Figure 2: Visible gold found in more than 30 gold chips identified in logging the core

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The Matagami Property has hosted numerous base metal mines over the last 60 years. However previous owners never applied a gold-focused exploration program to this large-scale property even though it is strategically located in the Abitibi geological sub-province.

The Property is located in the Abitibi Region of Quebec, one of the world’s most productive gold districts. It includes Canada’s largest gold producing mine with the country’s largest gold mineral reserves: the Detour Lake Mine. Detour Lake is owned by Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, located west of the Matagami Property. The Casa Berardi Mine, which has produced over 3 million ounces of gold, is also located to the just southwest of the Matagami Property. (See Figure 3, below.)

Figure 3: Property Location

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Gold Exploration work: background
Since satisfying the spending requirement associated with the earn-in agreement with Glencore, Nuvau has begun working on unlocking the overlooked gold potential of this vast, 1,300 square kilometre Matagami property.

This work includes compilation of historic data, overburden till sampling, a detailed high-resolution drone airborne magnetic (MAG) survey, and now diamond drilling. The sonic (till) drill program discovered a significant gold grain anomaly in the central portion of the Property (see Nuvau Press Release, March 4, 2025) that will be subject to follow up drilling in the upcoming winter drill program. Compilation of historic data in the vicinity of the base metal mines on the main ‘mine trend’ identified numerous areas where gold mineralization had been intersected, however no follow-up work was ever completed.

About Nuvau Minerals Inc.
Nuvau is a Canadian mining company focused on the Abitibi Region of mine-friendly Québec. Nuvau’s principal asset is the Matagami Property that is host to significant existing processing infrastructure and multiple mineral deposits and is being acquired from Glencore.

Qualified Person and Quality Assurance
Bastien Fresia P. Geo. (Qc), Technical Services Director of Nuvau and a ‘qualified person’ as is defined by National Instrument 43-101, has verified the scientific and technical data disclosed in this news release, and has otherwise reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release.

Drill core samples are sawn by staff technicians to create half core splits. One split is retained in the drill core box for archival purposes with a sample tag affixed at each sample interval and the other split is placed in a labelled plastic bag along with a corresponding sample number tag and placed in the shipment queue.

Quality control samples including blind certified reference material (‘CRM’), blank material, and core duplicates are inserted at a frequency of 1 in every 20 samples and sample batches of up to 60 samples were then shipped directly by Nuvau personnel to the ALS Canada Ltd. preparation laboratory in Rouyn-Noranda, Québec.

All submitted core samples are crushed in full to 95 % passing less than 2 mm (ALS code CRU-32). A 1000-gram sample was then riffled split from the crushed material and pulverized to 90 % passing 75 μm (SPL-22 and PUL-32a). Pulps are shipped from the preparation laboratory to ALS Canada Ltd.’s analytical lab in North Vancouver, British Columbia, for assay.

Lead, silver, copper and zinc analyses were determined by ore grade four acid digestion with an inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (‘ICP-AES’) or atomic absorption spectroscopy (‘AAS’) finish (ALS codes Pb-OG62, Ag-OG62, Cu-OG62 and ZnOG62), whereas gold was determined by 50 g fire assay analysis with an AAS finish (code Au-AA23).

ALS Canada Ltd. is an accredited, independent commercial analytical firm registered to ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and ISO 9001:2015.

For further information please contact:
Nuvau Minerals Inc.
Peter van Alphen
President and CEO
Telephone: 416-525-6023
Email: pvanalphen@nuvauminerals.com

Cautionary Statements
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, ‘forward-looking statements’) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as ‘may’, ‘should’, ‘anticipate’, ‘will’, ‘estimates’, ‘believes’, ‘intends’ ‘expects’ and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. More particularly and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements concerning drill results relating to the Matagami Property, the results of the PEA, the potential of the Matagami Property, the timing and commencement of any production, the restart of the Bracemac-McLeod Mine, the completion of the earn-in of the Matagami Property and the timing and completion of any technical studies, feasibility studies or economic analyses. Forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and the actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including expectations and assumptions concerning the Company and the Matagami Property. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Readers are further cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, as such information, although considered reasonable by the management of the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and are expressly qualified by the foregoing cautionary statement. Except as expressly required by securities law, neither the Company nor Nuvau undertakes any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259588

News Provided by Newsfile via QuoteMedia

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

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Politics

Iran will not give up nuclear enrichment, top official confirms in exclusive Fox News interview

Politics 3 Mins Read

Iran on Monday confirmed it will not give up its nuclear enrichment program in an exclusive interview with Fox News’ Bret Baier and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, set to air at 6 pm on Monday’s ‘Special Report.’ 

Araghchi confirmed that the U.S.’s top ambition in preventing Tehran from further developing a nuclear weapon by blocking all enrichment capabilities is unlikely to come to fruition, despite threats of intense international sanctions.

‘We cannot give up enrichment because it is an achievement of our own scientists. And now, more than that, it is a question of national pride,’ Araghchi said. ‘Our enrichment is so dear to us,’ he told Bret Baier, anchor and executive editor of Special Report, in a clip released before the full interview airs.

The foreign minister confirmed that the extent of the damage to its nuclear facilities caused by the U.S. strikes last month was ‘serious,’ but he would not comment on whether any enriched uranium survived the strikes.

‘Our facilities have been damaged – seriously damaged,’ Araghchi said. ‘The extent of which is now under evaluation by our atomic energy organization.

‘But as far as I know, they are seriously damaged,’ he added, noting that the damage has also currently ceased all enrichment capabilities for the time being. 

Iran has maintained that it was not seeking a nuclear weapon, but in the lead up to the Israeli and U.S. strikes, security experts were sounding the alarm that Tehran was likely capable of producing at least one nuclear weapon in a matter of days, and several warheads in a matter of weeks. 

While nuclear enrichment is a process needed for nations that also rely on nuclear power, Iran’s nuclear energy usage amounts to less than one percent of the nation’s energy consumption. 

The U.S. has suggested that given the low amounts of nuclear energy which Iran relies on, it should join a consortium that could potentially involve nations like the UAE and Saudi Arabia for its enriched uranium needs for civil nuclear power use. 

But Iran has repeatedly rejected this proposal, with Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also referring to Tehran’s capabilities as a source of national pride just last month.

‘The number of countries in the world that have achieved a complete nuclear fuel cycle is perhaps fewer than the number of fingers on a person’s two hands,’ Khamenei said in early June. ‘We’re capable of producing nuclear fuel starting from the mine and all the way to the power plant.’

But Iran also faces immense international sanctions and even greater arms restrictions should it fail to reach a nuclear agreement by the end of August – though it is unclear if that agreement must include the U.S. or just European nations including France, Germany and the U.K., also referred to as the E3.

Iranian officials will not only be meeting with its top allies and chief adversaries to the West, Russia and China, on Tuesday, but Tehran is also set to hold talks on Friday with officials from the E3.

Washington and Tehran have yet to resume talks following the U.S. strikes last month.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS

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AOC slams progressive critics for ‘lying’ about her Iron Dome stance in defense bill fight

Politics 4 Mins Read

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., is blasting people within her own party for ‘lying’ about her position during a key round of government funding votes late last week.

‘Google is free. If you’re saying I voted for military funding, you are lying. Receipts attached,’ Ocasio-Cortez wrote alongside several screenshots showing her vote ‘no’ on Republicans’ military funding bill.

‘Drag me for my positions all you want, but lying about them doesn’t make you part of the ‘left.’ If you believe neo-nazis are welcome and operating in good faith, you can have them!’

The New York City Democrat got broadsided from her left over her vote on a specific amendment aimed at blocking U.S. funding for Israel’s Iron Dome, though it did not make it into the final bill – which Ocasio-Cortez voted against.

The Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) criticized the progressive firebrand for voting against an amendment by Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., to block $500 million in Congress’ annual defense spending bill that was aimed at helping fund Israeli missile defense systems.

‘An arms embargo means keeping all arms out of the hands of a genocidal military, no exceptions. This is why we oppose Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’[s] vote against an amendment that would have blocked $500 million in funding for the Israeli military’s Iron Dome program,’ the DSA said over the weekend.

The DSA noted she did vote against the defense funding bill itself, thereby ‘voting against funding for the imperialist military-industrial complex and the Israeli genocide.’

The group added, however, ‘We were further deeply disappointed by her clarifying statement on her position on the Iron Dome.’

‘Along with other US-funded interceptor systems, the Iron Dome has emboldened Israel to invade or bomb no less than five different countries in the past two years,’ the DSA said.

‘The fact that Representative Ocasio-Cortez acknowledges that Israel is carrying out this genocide makes her support for military aid all the more disappointing and incongruous. We urge the representative to continue voting against the Iron Dome, whether it is part of a larger defense spending bill or as a stand-alone bill.’

The DSA commended Reps. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich.; Ilhan Omar, D-Minn.; Summer Lee, D-Pa., and Al Green, D-Texas, for voting against the amendment.

Fox News Digital reached out to Ocasio-Cortez’s campaign and congressional office for comment.

She posted on X after the vote, ‘Marjorie Taylor Greene’s amendment does nothing to cut off offensive aid to Israel nor end the flow of US munitions being used in Gaza. Of course I voted against it.’

‘What it does do is cut off defensive Iron Dome capacities while allowing the actual bombs killing Palestinians to continue. I have long stated that I do not believe that adding to the death count of innocent victims to this war is constructive to its end,’ she said.

‘That is a simple and clear difference of opinion that has long been established. I remain focused on cutting the flow of US munitions that are being used to perpetuate the genocide in Gaza.’

The clash exemplifies how Israel continues to drive an ideological wedge within the Democratic Party. 

It’s not the first time Ocasio-Cortez caught heat from the progressive base for failing to take a critical enough stance on Israel.

In 2021, the New York Democrat cried on the House floor after voting ‘present’ on funding Israel’s Iron Dome defense system.

‘Yes, I wept,’ she wrote in an open letter to constituents after the incident. ‘I wept at the complete lack of care for the human beings that are impacted by these decisions. I wept at an institution choosing a path of maximum volatility and minimum consideration for its own political convenience.’

The overall bill that passed last week calls for $832 billion in defense funding for fiscal year 2026.

That’s separate from the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), another annual bill that sets defense and national security policy each fiscal year – essentially detailing how those funds will be spent.

Greene’s amendment to strip $500 million going toward Israeli missile defense programs lost in a lopsided 6-422 vote.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS

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‘All the options’: GOP eyes cutting August recess to move dozens of Trump nominees stalled by Dems

Politics 3 Mins Read

Senate Republican leadership is weighing whether to cancel, or shorten, their upcoming August break following President Donald Trump’s request to stay in town and finish confirming his outstanding nominees. 

Over the last six months, the Senate has moved at a breakneck pace to confirm the president’s nominees all while facing resistance from Senate Democrats. So far, 96 of Trump’s nominees have been confirmed. Still, there are 136 outstanding nominations on the upper chamber’s calendar that haven’t made it over the finish line.

Year in and year out, lawmakers typically escape from the Hill for the entire month of August, either recuperating from months in Washington, D.C., or selling their legislative accomplishments to people back home.

But Trump on Sunday called on Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., to keep lawmakers in town to finish their work on confirming his slew of outstanding nominees.

‘Hopefully the very talented John Thune, fresh off our many victories over the past two weeks and, indeed, 6 months, will cancel August recess (and long weekends!), in order to get my incredible nominees confirmed,’ Trump said on his social media platform Truth Social. ‘We need them badly!!! DJT’

Thune said he had spoken with the president about the August recess issue, but did not say whether the entire break would be canceled. A senior GOP aide told Fox News Digital that discussions over shortening the August recess were already happening before Trump’s request.

‘We’re thinking about it,’ Thune said. ‘We want to get as many noms through the pipeline as we can. And honestly, it’d be nice to have Democrats who actually would kind of act more according to historical precedents when it comes to this.’

The remaining spots that need to be filled run across nearly every facet of the federal government, including positions in the Defense Department, Environmental Protection Agency, Commerce Department and a slew of ambassadors, among others.

Among the remaining nominees are some familiar faces from the 2024 election and beyond, including Hung Cao, who ran against Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., and was nominated as Navy undersecretary; Donald Trump Jr.’s ex-fiancee Kimberly Guilfoyle, who was tapped to be the U.S. ambassador to Greece, and former Rep. Marc Molinaro, R-N.Y., who was nominated to be Federal Transit administrator.

Thune accused Senate Democrats of being obstructionist and noted that so far, not a single nominee has been approved through the fast-track voice vote or unanimous consent processes. Indeed, every nominee has been put to a floor vote. Only Secretary of State Marco Rubio received a near unanimous, 99 to 0, vote.

Earlier this year, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., supported delaying all the president’s nominees who lack unanimous support in the upper chamber, effectively triggering floor votes for each. He also used an arcane Senate procedural move to stall federal prosecutors in committee.

‘This is something that we’re very committed to, and we’re going to be looking at all the options in the next few weeks to try and get as many of those across the finish line as we can,’ Thune said. 

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS

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Federal judge blocks Trump administration from defunding some Planned Parenthood facilities

Politics 3 Mins Read

A judge on Monday temporarily blocked the Trump administration from stripping some Medicaid funds from Planned Parenthood after Congress and President Donald Trump agreed to partially defund the nonprofit through passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Judge Indira Talwani of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts said in her order partially granting a preliminary injunction that the bill unconstitutionally punishes Planned Parenthood member organizations that do not provide abortions. 

The injunction will risk ‘at most minimal harm—financial or otherwise’ to the Trump administration while the lawsuit proceeds, Talwani, an Obama appointee, wrote.

The judge’s order appears to apply to some but not all Planned Parenthood facilities. The nonprofit said in a statement that it viewed Talwani’s order as a partial win and remained ‘hopeful’ that the judge would take further judicial action down the line.

‘This isn’t over,’ the organization said. ‘While we’re grateful that the court recognized the harm caused by this law, we’re disappointed that not all members were granted the necessary relief today.’

Talwani’s order arose from a lawsuit brought by Planned Parenthood, the nation’s largest abortion provider, over the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a massive budget bill that passed Congress this month with no Democrat support. Trump signed the bill into law on July 4.

A provision in the bill stripped Medicaid funding from Planned Parenthood, which the nonprofit said could force it to close about 200 of its 600 facilities and deprive about half of its customers, more than one million people, of services that do not include abortion.

Planned Parenthood attorneys noted in court filings that Medicaid typically does not cover abortion.

The attorneys argued that the bill would cause cancer and sexually transmitted infections to go undetected, especially for low-income people, and that more unplanned pregnancies would occur because of a lack of contraception access. They said the consequences of losing Medicaid funding ‘will be grave.’

Department of Justice (DOJ) attorneys had previously argued in court filings that the purpose of the budget provision was to stop ‘federal subsidies for Big Abortion’ by freezing federal funds for certain Medicaid recipients who provide abortions. Weakening Planned Parenthood has been one of the pro-life movement’s leading priorities since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

Talwani granted a temporary restraining order two weeks ago in favor of Planned Parenthood. The judge initially offered no explanation for her decision, a move that led to widespread backlash among Republicans who described it as judicial overreach. Days later, Talwani offered more context in a subsequent order.

The preliminary injunction will partially leave in place the pause on defunding Planned Parenthood indefinitely, but the Trump administration is likely to appeal the order to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.

The judge noted that her injunction applied to Planned Parenthood entities that do not provide abortion services or receive less than $800,000 in annual Medicaid reimbursements.

DOJ attorneys had previously argued to the court that blocking a measure that was passed by Congress and signed by the president was an extraordinary move and unjustified.

‘Beyond the futility of the claims on the merits, Planned Parenthood fails to demonstrate imminent irreparable harm to justify an injunction, asserting only classically reparable economic injury and irrelevant potential harm to patients, who are third parties not before this Court,’ DOJ attorneys wrote.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS

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Politics

Trump blasts Massie as ‘the worst Republican Congressman’ and says he’s seeking a challenger to support

Politics 2 Mins Read

President Donald Trump slammed Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., calling the lawmaker ‘the worst Republican Congressman’ in a Monday night Truth Social post, while noting that he is seeking a challenger he can support against the incumbent lawmaker.

‘Thomas Massie, the worst Republican Congressman, and an almost guaranteed NO VOTE each and every time, is an Embarrassment to Kentucky. He’s lazy, slow moving, and totally disingenuous – A real loser! Never has anything positive to add. Looking for someone good to run against this guy, someone I can Endorse and vigorously campaign for!’ Trump declared in the post.

The president’s post linked to a video by MAGA KY targeting the congressman for ouster. ‘Let’s fire Thomas Massie,’ the voiceover declares.

Fox News Digital reached out to Massie early on Tuesday morning, but did not receive a response by the time of publication.

Massie, a fiscal hawk, voted against passage of the Trump-backed One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Trump has been a vociferous critic of the congressman.

In a Truth Social post last month, the president asserted that Massie ‘is not MAGA,’ and declared, ‘we will have a wonderful American Patriot running against him in the Republican Primary, and I’ll be out in Kentucky campaigning really hard.’

Billionaire business tycoon Elon Musk has indicated that he will donate to support Massie’s re-election bid.

This post appeared first on FOX NEWS

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Investing

US Slaps 93.5 Percent Tariff on Chinese Graphite

Investing 5 Mins Read

The US government has imposed a 93.5 percent anti-dumping tariff on battery-grade graphite imports from China, targeting what officials have described as unfairly low-priced shipments.

They claim domestic producers have been undercut, and have cited concerns over critical minerals dependence.

The US Department of Commerce announced the duty on Thursday (July 17) after an investigation prompted by from US manufacturers, who argued that Chinese producers were flooding the market with underpriced graphite.

The new duty, when combined with existing countervailing tariffs, raises the total effective rate to around 160 percent, according to the American Active Anode Material Producers (AAAMP), the coalition that filed the complaint.

The move affects roughly US$347 million worth of Chinese graphite imports, according to commerce department estimates, and comes as US policymakers scramble to secure critical mineral supply chains.

“Commerce’s determination proves that China is selling [active anode material] at less than fair value into the domestic market,” Erik Olson, a spokesperson for AAAMP, said in a Thursday press release.

The department said final rulings on both anti-dumping and anti-subsidy investigations will be announced by December 5.

A separate ruling in May placed a 6.55 percent preliminary countervailing duty on most Chinese producers, but singled out Huzhou Kaijin New Energy Technology and Shanghai Shaosheng for exceptionally high rates — 712.03 percent and 721.03 percent, respectively.

Graphite’s importance draws new scrutiny

While graphite rarely draws headlines like lithium or cobalt, it comprises up to 50 kilograms of every electric vehicle (EV) battery, forming the anode — a component as essential as the more widely discussed cathode.

China accounts for roughly 95 percent of global anode production, according to data from SNE Research.

Imports from China represented two-thirds of the 180,000 metric tons (MT) of graphite products shipped to the US in 2023, BloombergNEF data shows. Industry analysts say the new duties could significantly reshape market economics — especially for foreign battery suppliers that serve US automakers.

Supporters of the decision, including domestic producers and some lawmakers, argue the tariffs are a long-overdue corrective measure to level the playing field and stimulate US production.

“The decision today underscores the strategic importance of building a domestic supply chain for critical minerals, including synthetic graphite, in North America,” said Michael O’Kronley. “It affirms our business strategy as well as the diversification strategy of our customers to source critical battery materials and components locally.’

O’Kronley is CEO of Novonix (ASX:NVX,NASDAQ:NVNXF), which is building one of the largest synthetic graphite facilities in North America with support from a US$750 million US Department of Energy loan.

Westwater Resources (NYSEAMERICAN:WWR), which is constructing a graphite plant in Alabama, said the ruling provides the policy clarity and market signals needed to accelerate domestic graphite production.

“These two rulings by the DOC are distinct from legislative-driven global trade tariffs,” said Chief Commercial Officer Jon Jacobs in a statement of support. “They reflect long-term support for US-based graphite production.”

The company expects to produce 12,500 MT of graphite in 2026 and ramp up to 50,000 MT annually by 2028.

Despite efforts to boost local production, US automakers and battery makers warn that domestic graphite supply remains years away from meeting commercial demand — either in scale or purity.

In filings with the commerce department, Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) cautioned that US producers have yet to demonstrate the technical ability to deliver the quality needed for EV batteries. Panasonic (OTC Pink:PCRFF,TSE:6752) echoed similar concerns, and both companies opposed the tariff earlier this year.

This leaves companies with a difficult choice: pay sharply higher prices for Chinese imports or risk shortages from an unproven local market.

Trade frictions add to supply chain strain

The timing complicates matters further. Just days before the US tariff announcement, China finalized new export controls on key battery technologies, including those used in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cells — an area where China leads globally. The combination of trade restrictions on both sides is stoking fears of a wider resource standoff.

For US automakers, the downstream pressure is immediate. The tariff could wipe out up to 20 percent of the value of production tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act, while added import costs may ripple through the supply chain.

Higher battery costs could also push EV sticker prices further upward, straining affordability and slowing adoption.

But experts caution that breaking China’s dominance in graphite will not be quick or easy. According to the International Energy Agency, developing alternative supply chains for battery materials could take years, if not decades — especially given the high purity and consistency required in EV-grade materials.

Still, supporters argue the short-term pain is worth the strategic payoff. “It’s a very strong signal that they are intent on fostering an ex-China supply chain,” Ben Lyons of Jarden told the Financial Times.

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

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

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Shanghai Platinum Week Showcases China’s Dominance in Global PGMs Demand

Investing 3 Mins Read

China is solidifying its position as the primary engine for global platinum demand

Record participation in Shanghai Platinum Week underscores the country’s expanding influence in a market facing a deepening supply deficit. The event, which attracted over 590 delegates from 30 countries, took place at a critical moment — just as the platinum market is tightening and a supply shortfall is deepening through 2029.

The World Platinum Investment Council (WPIC) notes that China now accounts for 64 percent of global demand for platinum bars and coins — up from 11 percent in 2019 — driven largely by investors seeking alternatives to gold.

“Platinum demand in China is continuing to expand, as the growth in physical platinum investment we are currently witnessing demonstrates,” said WPIC CEO Trevor Raymond, who also warned of persistent market tightness to 2029.

Also during the event, Valterra Platinum (JSE:VAL) CEO Craig Miller delivered his first public address in Asia since the company’s high-profile demerger from Anglo American (LSE:AAL,OTCQX:AAUKF) in May.

Miller confirmed Shanghai as one of Valterra’s three new international marketing hubs, emphasizing the company’s intent to shape demand within China’s growing platinum-group metals (PGMs) ecosystem.

“Attending Shanghai Platinum Week has highlighted its value for connecting with the PGM market in China,” he said. “Shaping demand for PGMs through market development remains an integral part of our strategy.”

Although new tariffs are expected to dent platinum demand by an estimated 112,000 ounces in 2025, that 1.4 percent decline is being far outweighed by a boom in investment and jewelry consumption.

The Chinese jewelry sector, too, is undergoing a transformation. Wholesalers are commissioning stock that mimics popular gold designs, making platinum jewelry more accessible and appealing to retailers and consumers alike.

If this trend continues, the WPIC forecasts a sharp rise in jewelry-related platinum usage from 2026 onward.

Platinum market fundamentals also remain tight, with supply expected to lag behind growing demand through at least 2029. Several Chinese refiners have recently secured “good delivery” accreditation from the London Platinum and Palladium Market, bolstering investor confidence and strengthening the local trading ecosystem.

Beyond investment and jewelry, regulatory and industrial shifts are setting the stage for long-term structural demand. China’s upcoming China VII/7 vehicle emissions standards, due to take effect in 2026, are expected to significantly increase PGMs loadings per vehicle due to more stringent cold start and real-world emissions testing.

Meanwhile, a global phaseout of mercury-based catalysts in polyvinyl chloride manufacturing is likely to drive adoption of platinum-based alternatives by 2030. In the hydrogen economy — a sector widely seen as platinum’s next frontier — the outlook remains bullish. Installed global electrolysis capacity is forecast to reach 100 gigawatts by 2030, with platinum-intensive proton exchange membrane (PEM) technology expected to dominate nearly half the market.

“This year we were delighted to welcome more overseas interest than ever before,” said Raymond. “Platinum investment is a natural mechanism for attracting metal into any geography, providing a pool of liquidity to supply future demand — particularly vital for countries like China, which rely on imports and recycling for supply.”

The week also celebrated Shanghai Platinum Week’s fifth anniversary with the unveiling of a commemorative 999.5 platinum medal designed by master engraver Luo Yonghui, limited to just 200 pieces.

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

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

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Crypto Market Update: GENIUS Act Becomes First Federal Stablecoin Law in the US

Investing 5 Mins Read

Here’s a quick recap of the crypto landscape for Friday (July 18) as of 9:00 p.m. UTC.

Get the latest insights on Bitcoin, Ethereum and altcoins, along with a round-up of key cryptocurrency market news.

Bitcoin and Ethereum price update

Bitcoin (BTC) was priced at US$117,488, down by 1.3 percent in the last 24 hours. The day’s range for the cryptocurrency brought a low of US$117.409 and a high of US$119,529.

Bitcoin price performance, July 18, 2025.

Chart via TradingView.

After hitting new highs this week, supported by optimism around US crypto legislation and continued institutional inflows, Bitcoin is consolidating. The crypto market is currently seeing a capital rotation from Bitcoin to altcoins, with Ethereum’s token, ETH, exhibiting an exceptionally strong run.

Ethereum (ETH) was priced at US$3,555.99, up by 3.9 percent over the past 24 hours. Its lowest valuation on Friday was US$3,541.70, and its highest was US$3,657.81.

Altcoin price update

  • Solana (SOL) was priced at US$117.28, up by 1.6 percent over 24 hours. Its lowest valuation on Friday was US$176.32, and its highest was US$181.52.
  • XRP was trading for US$3.44, up 3.1 percent in the past 24 hours. The cryptocurrency’s lowest valuation was US$3.36, and its highest was US$3.52.
  • Sui (SUI) is trading at US$3.80, down by four percent over the past 24 hours and its lowest valuation of the day. Its highest was US$4.01.
  • Cardano (ADA) was trading at US$0.8176, up by 1.9 percent over 24 hours. Its lowest violation was US$0.8152 while its highest was US$0.8591.

Today’s crypto news to know

GENIUS Act becomes law

US President Donald Trump signed the GENIUS Act into law on Friday, establishing the first federal regulatory framework for stablecoins in the US. This marks a significant development for digital assets.

The act will take effect 18 months after the date of enactment, or 120 days after the primary federal payment stablecoin regulators issue any final implementing regulations.

In a statement, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Chair Paul Atkins congratulated the House on the accomplishment, which was preceded by a tumultuous period on Tuesday (July 15) that saw a procedural vote fail.

This was followed by a successful bipartisan vote on Wednesday (July 16) to advance the bill, culminating in its overwhelming passage on Thursday (July 17). Atkins added that he will look forward to watching the market leverage the regulatory framework provided by the GENIUS Act” over the coming months and years.

Stablecoins are used to facilitate trading, payments, and transfers within the crypto ecosystem without the volatility of traditional cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent recently suggested that the law could help grow the stablecoin market to US$3.7 trillion by 2030.

Two other bills also passed the House during the so-called “Crypto Week”: one defining which crypto assets are securities or commodities, and another barring the Federal Reserve from launching a US central bank digital currency.

These bills will now proceed to the Senate, but the Genius Act’s passage alone is already being hailed as a defining moment in the evolution of US crypto regulation.

Crypto market soars past US$4 trillion

The global market capitalization of the crypto sector has topped US$4 trillion for the first time, spurred by optimism following the US House’s passage of federal stablecoin legislation.

Investors are piling into altcoins and crypto-related equities as momentum builds behind Crypto Week in Washington. Ether led the charge with a 22 percent jump over five days, while Bitcoin soared to an all-time high of US$123,205 and continues to make up over half of the market’s total value.

The gains reflect confidence that a regulatory framework is finally taking shape in the world’s largest economy.

Analysts predict that the stablecoin sector alone could balloon to US$3.7 trillion by 2030, especially with state and federal guardrails in place. Exchange-traded fund inflows have been particularly strong this month, with US-listed Bitcoin and Ether funds attracting a combined US$8.4 billion in July.

SharpLink to raise US$6 billion for ETH acquisition

Following a 16,370 ETH acquisition on Sunday (July 13), a prospectus supplement filed with the SEC by online performance marketing company SharpLink on Thursday revealed the company increased the amount of common stock it can sell by an extra US$5 billion. Added to the US$1 billion in its initial May 30 filing, this brings the total offering to US$6 billion. SharpLink said it would use the funds to acquire more ETH.

Executive order will reportedly allow crypto in 401(k)s

Trump is reportedly expected to sign an executive order allowing American 401(k) retirement plans to include alternative assets like cryptocurrencies, as well as gold and private equity.

This development was reported by the Financial Times on Thursday, citing three individuals briefed on the plans, who added that the order would direct regulatory agencies to investigate the remaining hurdles preventing alternative investments in professionally managed funds.

In response, SEC Chair Paul Atkins expressed openness to the inclusion of cryptocurrencies in 401(k) retirement plans during an appearance on Bloomberg Talks, but emphasized the critical need for investor education.

Atkins has also indicated that the SEC is considering an innovation exemption within its regulatory framework. This exemption would aim to facilitate new trading methods and offer targeted relief to foster the growth of a tokenized securities ecosystem.

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

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

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

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Blackrock Silver Commences Eastern Expansion Drill Program Targeting 1.2km Trend at Tonopah West

Investing 10 Mins Read

 

Scout Drilling Discovered the Extension of the High-grade Merten Vein Creating an Opportunity to Expand the Dpb Resource up to 1,200 Metres to the East

 

SCOUT PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS:

 

  • Assay results from the Company’s reverse circulation Scout Drill Program (see March 31, 2025 news) returned significant gold & silver values in 7 drillholes that successfully expanded the footprint of mineralization up to 1,200 metres from the east of the existing DPB resource toward the historic Ohio mine;

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  • These intercepts cover a new zone of silver and gold interpreted to be the outer ring structure of the Fraction caldera, and are not included in the 2024 resource;

    •  

  • A fully funded 15 drillhole program totalling up to 5,000 metres is underway; and

    •  

  • Results from this program will be incorporated into an updated Mineral Resource Estimate in Q1, 2026.

    •  

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – July 21, 2025) – Blackrock Silver Corp. (TSXV: BRC,OTC:BKRRF) (OTCQX: BKRRF) (FSE: AHZ0) (‘Blackrock‘ or the ‘Company‘) announces commencement of a fully-funded expansion drill program (‘Expansion Program’) to follow up on the successful Scout Drilling campaign that expanded the DPB South zone 1,200 metres in an easterly direction on its 100% owned Tonopah West project located in Nye and Esmeralda Counties, Nevada, United States.

 

The Expansion Program will utilize one Reverse Circulation (RC) drill overseen by Legacy Drilling and two core drill rigs operated by Alloy Drilling to complete 2,450 metres (8,000 ft) of RC precollars and 2,550 metres (8,400 ft) of core tails across 15 drillholes targeting the Eastern Expansion zone between the DPB resource area and the eastern extent of the project. Drilling is anticipated to be completed in October with assay results expected through year end.

 

Andrew Pollard, Blackrock’s President and CEO, stated, ‘With drills now turning on this fully financed program, we’re stepping out across a 1.2-kilometre corridor with strong potential to significantly expand our mineral inventory at Tonopah West. Scout drilling confirmed the eastern extension of the high-grade Merten vein well beyond the current resource boundary, returning standout grades including 2,063 grams per tonne (g/t) silver equivalent (AgEq) (1,198 g/t silver (Ag) and 9.6 g/t gold (Au)) over 1.52 metres, and 952 g/t AgEq (10 g/t Ag and 10.5 g/t Au) over 4.57 metres. This newly defined zone, situated along the outer ring structure of the Fraction caldera, lies entirely outside our 2024 resource and presents an opportunity to quickly and meaningfully grow the scale of the project. Results from this program are expected to underpin a resource update in Q1 2026. The Company remains on track to deliver a separate resource update in Q3 2025 that will incorporate all results from the recently completed M&I conversion program.’

 

As announced on March 31, 2025, the Company discovered the 1,200 metre eastern extension zone representing the continuation of the outer-ring structure or Fraction caldera margin from DPB South to the historic Ohio mine. The Scout Drilling showed the Merten vein extends eastward and is arched and dips southward. This orientation suggests multiple ring structures associated with the Fraction caldera running across Tonopah West. An inner structure hosting the Victor and DPB North (Denver and Paymaster) resources, and an outer, more southern, ring structure hosting DPB South (Merten and Bermuda) and the NW Stepout resources (See Figure 1). The arching geometry of the Merten vein is similar to that described from the historic Ohio vein which was 15 metres thick when mined in the early 1900s1. Given the geometry and location, the Merten is potentially the extension of the Ohio vein. Table 1 summarizes the Scout Drilling assay results above 150 g/t AgEq.

 

Table 1: Scout Drilling Program results above 150 g/t AgEq

 

                                                                                                 

Drillhole ID Hole 
Type		 Area From 
(m)		 To
 (m)		 Drill
 Interval
 (m)		 Ag g/t Au g/t AgEq g/t
TW25-125 RC DPB East 220.98 222.50 1.52 76.41 2.010 257.3
TW25-127 RC DPB East 390.15 391.67 1.52 8.00 1.750 165.5
TW25-130 RC DPB East 188.98 190.50 1.52 290.00 3.300 587.0
TW25-132 RC DPB East 245.36 246.89 1.52 78.58 1.180 184.8
TW25-133 RC DPB East 280.42 283.47 3.05 129.08 1.575 270.8
TW25-133 RC DPB East 309.37 313.95 4.57 10.65 10.456 951.8
Including 309.37 310.90 1.52 15.73 21.467 1,948.0
TW25-128 RC Ohio 292.61 294.13 1.52 1,198.00 9.610 2,063.0
TW25-128 RC Ohio 297.18 298.71 1.52 219.00 1.720 373.8
TW25-131 RC Ohio 269.75 271.27 1.52 89.10 2.630 325.8
AgEq gpt=(Au gpt*90)+Ag gpt; True thickness unknown at this time; Cut-off grade is 150 gpt AgEq;
RC = Reverse Circulation Drilling

 

 

 

TW25-133 returned significant silver and gold with values starting at 309-metres grading 10.46 g/t gold and 10.6 g/t silver over 4.57 metres (952 g/t AgEq), and show mineralization extends along the Merten vein for 540 meters to the east-southeast of the main DPB South resource. With the inclusion of TW25-128 which returned 9.6 g/t gold and 1198 g/t silver over 1.5-metres (2,063 g/t AgEq), the zone could be up to 1,200-metres in length.

 

The mineralized zone traced by these assay results is new and not included in the 2024 resource. These results could have a substantive impact on the future resource estimate.

 

 

Figure 1: Tonopah West expansion potential

 

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/259346_2ae57e3a248179b3_001full.jpg

 

 

Figure 2: Drillhole location map with cross section line at location 478540E

 

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/259346_2ae57e3a248179b3_002full.jpg

 

 

Figure 3: Geologic cross section along 478540E

 

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/676/259346_2ae57e3a248179b3_003full.jpg

 

Quality Assurance/ Quality Control

 

All sampling is conducted under the supervision of the Company’s project geologists, and a strict chain of custody from the project to the sample preparation facility is implemented and monitored. The RC samples are hauled from the project site to a secure and fenced facility in Tonopah, Nevada, where they are loaded on to American Assay Laboratory’s (AAL) flat-bed truck and delivered to AAL’s facility in Sparks, Nevada. A sample submittal sheet is delivered to AAL personnel who organize and process the sample intervals pursuant to the Company’s instructions.

 

The RC samples are lined out at the lab and logged into AAL’s system. The samples are dried, crushed to 85% passing 10 mesh (2mm) and a 250-gram sub-sample split is collected and pulverized to 200 mesh (74 micron) in a ring and puck pulverizer. Then the pulverized material is digested and analyzed for gold using fire assay fusion and an Induced Coupled Plasma (ICP) finish on a 30-gram assay split (FA-PB30-ICP). Silver is determined using five-acid digestion and ICP analysis (ICP-5AM48). Over limits for gold and silver are determined using a gravimetric finish (GRAVAU30 and GRAVAG30). Data verification of the assay and analytical results are completed to ensure accurate and verifiable results. Blackrock personnel insert a blind prep blank, lab blank or a certified reference material approximately every 15th to 20th sample.

 

Qualified Persons

 

Blackrock’s exploration activities at Tonopah West are conducted and supervised by Mr. William Howald, Executive Chairman of Blackrock. Mr. William Howald, AIPG Certified Professional Geologist #11041, is a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. He has reviewed and approved the contents of this news release.

 

About Blackrock Silver Corp.

 

Backed by gold and silver ounces in the ground, Blackrock is a junior precious metal focused exploration and development company driven to add shareholder value. Anchored by a seasoned Board of Directors, the Company is focused on its 100% controlled Nevada portfolio of properties consisting of low-sulphidation, epithermal gold and silver mineralization located along the established Northern Nevada Rift in north-central Nevada and the Walker Lane trend in western Nevada.

 

Additional information on Blackrock Silver Corp. can be found on its website at www.blackrocksilver.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR at www.sedarplus.ca.

 

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Information

 

This news release contains ‘forward-looking statements’ and ‘forward-looking information’ (collectively, ‘forward-looking statements‘) within the meaning of Canadian and United States securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things: the Company’s strategic plans; the timing of and successful completion of the Company’s Expansion Program at Tonopah West and the anticipated objectives and results therefrom; timing and estimates of mineral resource quantities and qualities; timing of updated resource estimates; estimates of mineralization from drilling; geological information projected from sampling results; and the potential quantities and grades of the target zones.

 

These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies. These assumptions include, among other things: conditions in general economic and financial markets; accuracy of assay results; geological interpretations from drilling results, timing and amount of capital expenditures; performance of available laboratory and other related services; future operating costs; the historical basis for current estimates of potential quantities and grades of target zones; the availability of skilled labour and no labour related disruptions at any of the Company’s operations; no unplanned delays or interruptions in scheduled activities; all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals for operations are received in a timely manner; the ability to secure and maintain title and ownership to properties and the surface rights necessary for operations; and the Company’s ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive.

 

The Company cautions the reader that forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements contained in this news release and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; the interpretation and uncertainties of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project costs overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; availability of funds; failure to delineate potential quantities and grades of the target zones based on historical data; general market and industry conditions; and those factors identified under the caption ‘Risks Factors’ in the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form.

 

Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company’s management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

 

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.

 

 

For Further Information, Contact:

 

Andrew Pollard
President and Chief Executive Officer
(604) 817-6044
info@blackrocksilver.com 

 

 

1 All historic production information from Nevada Bureau of Mines & Geology, Bulletin 51

 

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/259346

 

 

 

News Provided by Newsfile via QuoteMedia

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