Apex Acquires Additional REE Rights and Consolidates Priority Target Area at The Elk Creek Rift Project, Nebraska

Core Insights - Apex Critical Metals Corp. has acquired additional rare earth exploration rights at the Elk Creek Rift Project in Nebraska, enhancing its strategic position in the critical metals sector [1][2][10] - The acquisition covers approximately 3,024 acres (1,224 hectares) within a high-priority target area, which is adjacent to NioCorp Developments Ltd. [2][10] - The company is refining its Phase I drill plan and aims to commence drilling before the end of the year, focusing on areas with historical high-grade rare earth mineralization [2][3] Company Developments - The Elk Creek Rift Project is part of a larger strategy to advance rare earth element (REE) and niobium projects, supporting the growing demand for critical metals in North America [10][12] - Historical drilling results indicate significant potential for REE mineralization, with notable intercepts such as 155.5 meters of 2.70% REO and 68.2 meters of 3.32% REO [10] - The company is also advancing its Cap Project in British Columbia, which has shown promising niobium discoveries [11] Industry Context - The U.S. remains 100% import-dependent for several critical minerals, including rare earths, with domestic consumption projected at approximately 8,800 metric tons of rare earth oxides equivalent in 2024 [7] - Recent investments in domestic REE production, such as the Department of Defense's $400 million stake in MP Materials and Apple's $500 million supply agreement, highlight the increasing focus on securing North American REE supplies [6][7] - The entry into the Elk Creek area aligns with efforts to diversify and secure REE supplies amid global supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly concerning China's production quotas [7]