Montage Gold continues to rapidly advance its Koné Project with first gold pour expected in late Q4-2026

Core Insights - Montage Gold Corp. is making rapid construction progress at its Koné project in Côte d'Ivoire, with the first gold pour expected in late Q4-2026 [2][3][6] - The company has committed approximately $545 million, representing 63% of the total upfront capital expenditure, and construction remains on-budget [3][7][28] - Exploration efforts are ongoing, with 115,000 meters drilled in 2025, exceeding the initial budget of 90,000 meters, and a new $16 million drill program launched for 2026 [4][32][31] Construction Progress - Over 7.2 million construction hours have been worked, with key milestones achieved including the erection of all 14 CIL tanks and the delivery of the ball mill shell to the site [3][6][9] - The oxide sizer has been completed approximately four months ahead of schedule, and the hard-rock comminution circuit is on track for completion in Q2-2027 [11][28] - The resettlement village has been completed and is fully occupied, reflecting strong partnerships with local stakeholders [10][24] Exploration Program - The exploration program for 2026 includes 90,000 meters of drilling at the Koné project and 9,000 meters at the newly awarded Wendé advanced greenfield property [4][32][31] - The company expects to publish updated Mineral Resource Estimates in Q1-2026 for several satellite targets, including the Koné and Gbongogo Main deposits [4][31] - The focus of the exploration program is on infill and extension drilling, advancing pre-resource targets, and testing new targets across the project [31][34] Future Outlook - The company aims to consolidate its project pipeline through the acquisition of African Gold, enhancing its exploration capabilities [7][39] - Key upcoming catalysts include the first gold pour in late Q4-2026 and ongoing results from the 2026 exploration program [41][38] - Montage Gold Corp. is positioned to become a premier African gold producer, with a projected mine life of 16 years and annual production of over 300,000 ounces of gold in the first eight years [39]