Apex Receives Exploration Permit for Rift REE Project, Nebraska; Drill Program Preparation Underway

Core Viewpoint - Apex Critical Metals Corp. has received approval for its mineral exploration permit at the Rift Rare Earth Project, marking a significant step towards initiating its drilling campaign in Nebraska, USA [1][2]. Company Developments - The company is actively expanding its property position and has completed historical re-logging, re-assaying, and 3D modeling in preparation for the drilling campaign [2]. - The Rift Project now encompasses approximately 3,500 acres within the Elk Creek Carbonatite Complex, an area with extensive historical drilling results from previous operators [2][7]. - Historical drilling results include significant intervals of high-grade rare earth oxide (REO) mineralization, such as 155.5 meters at 2.70% REO and 68.2 meters at 3.32% REO [6][7]. Drilling Program Preparations - With the drill permit secured, Apex has commenced pre-drilling activities, with drilling expected to start in the first half of Q1/2026 [3]. - Preparations include finalizing discussions with contractors, securing drill mobilization schedules, establishing access routes, and refining targets based on historical data [6]. Strategic Positioning - Apex Critical Metals is focused on advancing rare earth element and niobium projects to meet the growing demand for critical and strategic metals in North America [7][9]. - The company is also advancing its 100%-owned Cap Project in British Columbia, which has shown significant niobium discovery potential [8].