New Age Metals Initiates 2026 Platinum Group Metal Exploration At River Valley, Ontario

Core Viewpoint - New Age Metals Inc. has initiated its 2026 platinum group metal exploration program at the River Valley Project, aiming to expand its PGM portfolio through strategic acquisitions and exploration efforts [1][10]. Exploration Program - The exploration program consists of a two-phase approach, with Phase 1 focusing on a DasVision 3D Induced Polarization (IP) survey over the Mustang Zone, which is underexplored [2][3]. - The survey is being conducted by Abitibi Geophysics, a recognized provider of geophysical services, and aims to generate high-priority drill targets [2][4]. Objectives and Goals - The primary goals of the DasVision survey include generating mineral resource targets for in-fill drilling, exploring along strike and at depth for resource expansion, covering gaps in historical surveys, and mapping the Mustang Zone's geometry in 3D [14][16]. - The survey will cover 53 line-km and is expected to achieve a depth of investigation of at least 350 meters below the surface, significantly deeper than previous drilling efforts [15]. Market Context - Platinum and copper prices are at multi-year highs, with palladium and rhodium prices rebounding from lows, enhancing the strategic value of PGM-Cu exploration [6][10][22]. - The macroeconomic environment for critical metals is currently favorable for the mining industry, supporting the exploration initiatives [10]. Company Strategy - New Age Metals is pursuing a joint venture strategy for the Mustang Zone to attract a strategic PGM partner while focusing on the development of its core River Valley resource area [6][10]. - The company maintains ongoing engagement with the Nipissing First Nation as part of its commitment to community relations [6]. Historical Context - The Mustang Zone has not undergone systematic exploration since 2002, making it relatively underexplored compared to the main River Valley mineralized trend [23]. - Historical exploration by Mustang Minerals and subsequent acquisition by New Age Metals in 2016 laid the groundwork for current exploration efforts [20][21]. Mineral Resource Estimates - The current mineral resource estimates for the Mustang Zone indicate significant potential, with inferred resources totaling approximately 31,215,000 tonnes, containing 273,490 ounces of palladium and 171,540 ounces of platinum [27]. - The estimates reflect a lower confidence level for inferred resources, which could potentially be upgraded with continued exploration [29].