Bear Creek Mining Announces Q2 2025 Mercedes Production Results and Drawdown of Funds

Core Viewpoint - Bear Creek Mining Corporation reported production results for Q2 2025, indicating a total of 7,973 ounces of gold and 33,932 ounces of silver from the Mercedes Mine, reflecting challenges in production efficiency due to contractor performance issues [1][2]. Production Results - The company mined 91,941 tonnes of ore in Q2 2025, down from 102,886 tonnes in Q1 2025 - Ore processed decreased to 89,488 tonnes in Q2 2025 from 105,611 tonnes in Q1 2025 - Gold grade processed improved to 2.88 grams per tonne (gpt) from 2.56 gpt in the previous quarter - Gold recovery rate increased to 96% from 95% in Q1 2025 - Gold ounces produced decreased from 8,262 in Q1 2025 to 7,973 in Q2 2025 - Silver ounces produced also decreased from 36,466 in Q1 2025 to 33,932 in Q2 2025 - Development meters fell to 1,828 from 2,469 in Q1 2025 [2][3]. Contractor Performance and Recovery Plan - The underperformance of a mining contractor engaged in late 2024 led to production challenges, prompting the company to terminate the mining services agreement in May 2025 - A comprehensive recovery plan is being implemented to enhance production efficiency, with a transition to a new contractor for the Marianas deposit, which is expected to be a major contributor to production in 2025 [2][3]. Strategic Review - The ongoing Strategic Review, initiated on March 4, 2025, is exploring various options including recapitalization, asset sales, mergers, and joint ventures, although no guarantees exist regarding the outcome [4]. Financial Drawdown - The company drew down US$2.4 million from the 2025 Sandstorm Note on July 14, 2025, with a total of US$3.6 million drawn to date - The remaining amount available for drawdown is up to US$2.9 million, subject to approval by Sandstorm - The note has a principal amount of US$6.5 million, an interest rate of 7% per annum, and matures on September 22, 2028 [5][6]. Working Capital Deficiency - As of December 31, 2024, the company reported a working capital deficiency of US$93.2 million, raising concerns about its ability to continue operations without additional financing [9].