U.S. Gold (US:USAU) Prnewswire·2025-02-11 10:47Core Viewpoint - The updated pre-feasibility study (PFS) for the CK Gold Project indicates strong economic potential, with plans to advance to a feasibility study (FS) and explore further optimization opportunities [1][4][32]. PFS Highlights - The CK Gold Project has an operating life of 10.2 years, with total gold contained estimated at 1.672 million AuEq ounces and total gold produced for sales projected at 1.112 million AuEq ounces [2][9]. - The average all-in sustaining cost is $937 per AuEq ounce, with a pre-tax NPV of $459 million and an IRR of 36% [2][10]. - The project anticipates free cash flow of $693.2 million pre-tax and $556.9 million post-tax [2][10]. Economic Performance - The PFS reflects a significant improvement over the previous study, with a 42% increase in NPV and a 15% improvement in payback period [9][19]. - The project is based on a mineral reserve estimate of 73.2 million tons at a grade of 0.014 ounces per ton, supporting a simple surface mining operation [7][13]. Project Timeline and Construction - A 30-month construction period is planned, potentially starting in late 2025, with initial production of gold concentrate targeted for 2028 [8][16]. - Initial capital costs are estimated at $277 million, covering the development of the mine and processing facilities [16][18]. Permitting and Regulatory Status - The project has received necessary permits, including the Industrial Siting Permit and Mine Operating Permit, with conditions for further environmental compliance [29][30]. Optimization and Future Steps - The company plans to finalize optimization work and advance to the FS by the end of 2025, including metallurgical testing and evaluations for waste rock commercialization [32][35]. - Exploration potential exists to expand resources, with ongoing drilling programs anticipated to enhance mineral reserves [33][34].