Core Viewpoint - Orecap Invest Corp. has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its 100%-owned Mirado property for a 19.9% equity stake in Kirkland Lake Discoveries Corp., reflecting a strategic shift towards holding significant equity positions in high-quality exploration companies [1][2][14]. Transaction Details - The transaction involves Orecap receiving approximately 40,050,398 shares of KLDC, valued at $11.4 million based on KLDC's closing price on December 17, 2025 [3][14]. - The shares received will be subject to a statutory four-month hold period following the closing date [7]. - The transaction is pending approval from the TSX Venture Exchange and is expected to close in January 2026 [8]. Strategic Rationale - This investment aligns with Orecap's strategy of focusing on well-capitalized companies with high-potential assets and strong management teams [4][6]. - By acquiring a stake in KLDC, Orecap increases its exposure to the Kirkland Lake region, which is known for its rich gold deposits [4][10]. Portfolio Impact - Orecap's investment in KLDC complements its existing 13.9% interest in Stardust Metal Corp., enhancing its overall exposure in the Kirkland Lake area [5]. - The transaction allows Orecap to concentrate on equity positions rather than direct ownership of land, while still retaining exposure to the Mirado Project through KLDC [6][14]. Company Background - Orecap Invest Corp. focuses on special situation investments in the natural resource sector, aiming for high returns on precious and critical metal assets [9]. - Kirkland Lake Discoveries Corp. holds a significant exploration portfolio in the Kirkland Lake region, which is recognized as one of the most prolific mining districts globally [10][11].

Strategic Investment - Polygon Labs seeks to enhance 'storytelling' capabilities through a strategic investment in Boys Club [1]

Core Viewpoint - American Tungsten Corp. has entered into a letter of offer agreement to invest AUD$750,000 in Viking Mines Limited by subscribing for 150,000,000 ordinary shares at AUD$0.005 per share, aiming to strengthen its position in the U.S. tungsten market [1][3]. Investment Details - The investment will support Viking Mines' planned AUD$3.8 million placement to acquire a 100% interest in six tungsten projects in Nevada, which have a historical production of approximately 123,000 tons at an average grade of 0.54% WO₃ [2]. - The financing is expected to close in February 2026, pending shareholder approval from Viking Mines [2]. Strategic Importance - The investment is seen as a strategic cornerstone for American Tungsten, enhancing its ability to build a significant U.S.-based tungsten platform amid a favorable market outlook for tungsten [3]. - The acquisition aligns with American Tungsten's existing operations at the IMA Tungsten Mine, facilitating exploration, resource growth, and the development of domestic supply [3]. Company Background - American Tungsten Corp. is focused on high-potential tungsten and magnetite assets in North America, particularly advancing the IMA Mine Project in Idaho, which is a historic underground tungsten mine [6]. - The IMA Mine has produced approximately 199,449 MTUs of WO3 between 1945 and 1957 and is currently undergoing exploration to assess the potential for re-starting operations [5]. Viking Mines Overview - Viking Mines Ltd is an Australian-listed company that has recently expanded into the U.S. by acquiring six tungsten projects in Nevada, a region known for its rich history in critical mineral production [4].

Core Insights - Swire Coca-Cola is planning to build a new production facility in Colorado Springs, replacing an outdated plant in Denver that has been operational for around 90 years [1][2] - The new facility will represent a capital investment of $475 million and is expected to cover an area of 620,000 square feet, with construction set to begin in 2026 [2][3] - The new plant will enhance Swire Coca-Cola's capacity to meet rising customer demand and support sustainability goals while providing a modern working environment for its workforce [3][4] Company Overview - Swire Coca-Cola operates as a franchise for The Coca-Cola Co. in Greater China, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, and western states in the US, generating over $3 billion in revenue [1][4] - The company currently employs 170 people at its existing distribution facility in Colorado Springs, which has been described as a strong partner for the new investment [3] - In 2023, Swire Pacific agreed to sell its Swire Coca-Cola unit to its controlling shareholder, John Swire & Sons [4] Leadership Changes - The Coca-Cola Co. has announced the promotion of Henrique Braun to CEO, effective March 31, succeeding James Quincey, who will transition to the role of executive chairman [5]

Core Viewpoint - Warren Buffett's protégé, Todd Combs, has been hired by JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon to lead a new $10 billion group, marking a significant transition as Buffett steps back from his role at Berkshire Hathaway [1][5]. Group 1: Todd Combs' Background and Qualifications - Todd Combs has a strong background, having run a hedge fund before joining Berkshire Hathaway in 2010 and later becoming CEO of Geico, where he significantly improved profitability [4]. - Combs' experience managing a large financial business and his mentorship under Buffett enhance his credentials, making him a valuable asset for JPMorgan [3][4]. - His involvement in the healthcare joint venture Haven, although it was short-lived, demonstrates his capability in managing complex projects [4]. Group 2: Jamie Dimon's Perspective - Jamie Dimon views Combs as a close proxy for Buffett, indicating that while he could not hire Buffett directly, he has secured one of his protégés [2]. - Dimon has expressed deep respect for both Buffett and Combs, highlighting Combs' investment acumen and leadership qualities [6][8]. - The decision to hire Combs was influenced by Dimon's observations of him as a board member at JPMorgan over the past nine years [2]. Group 3: Strategic Focus of Combs' New Role - In his new position, Combs will lead the Strategic Investment Group, focusing on investments in sectors critical to national security, such as critical minerals and frontier technologies [9]. - This role aligns with JPMorgan's Security and Resiliency Initiative, indicating a strategic shift towards sectors deemed vital for national interests [9].

Core Insights - Metal Energy Corp. announces a strategic investment from Teck Resources Limited, acquiring a 9.9% equity interest, joining Centerra Gold Inc. as a strategic investor [1][2][4] Strategic Investments - Teck and Centerra will each subscribe for 4,442,000 shares of a total of 8,880,000 common shares at a price of C$0.73 per FT Share and 6,200,000 common shares at C$0.45 per Share, resulting in both holding approximately 9.9% of Metal Energy's issued shares [4] - An investor rights agreement will be established with Teck, similar to that with Centerra, ensuring funds are allocated for exploration on the NIV property [4] Company Overview - Metal Energy focuses on critical metals exploration, particularly copper and gold assets in Canada, with the NIV project being fully permitted and drill-ready [6] - The NIV project is located in British Columbia's Toodoggone District, known for significant porphyry deposits, adding to Metal Energy's portfolio of three high-potential projects [6][13] Future Outlook - The company anticipates that the involvement of two major mining companies will attract attention from the broader mining investment community as it aims for further discoveries in the region [3] - The closing of the offering is expected around December 16, 2025, pending regulatory approvals [5]

Sovereign Wealth Fund Establishment - South Korea is planning to establish a new sovereign wealth fund [1] - The new fund will be modeled after Singapore's Temasek [1] Investment Strategy - The fund aims to build a platform for strategic and commercially-driven investments [1]

Core Viewpoint - L'Oréal Groupe is set to acquire an additional 10% stake in Galderma Group, raising its total ownership to 20%, with the transaction expected to complete in the first quarter of 2026, pending regulatory approvals [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - The additional shares will be purchased from a consortium led by EQT, including Sunshine SwissCo, Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), and Auba Investment [1]. - Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed [1]. - The acquisition will be financed through L'Oréal's existing cash resources and credit facilities [2]. Group 2: Strategic Intent - L'Oréal's CEO emphasized that aesthetics is a key area for growth adjacent to their core beauty business, and the initial investment in Galderma has been successful [2]. - Following the deal, Galderma's board will consider nominating two non-independent board candidates from L'Oréal for the 2026 Annual General Meeting [3]. Group 3: Future Collaboration - The two companies plan to explore new joint scientific research initiatives to expand their existing collaboration [4]. - Galderma's CEO expressed satisfaction with L'Oréal's increased investment, indicating confidence in future value creation [4]. - Galderma operates in 90 countries and is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange [5].

Core Insights - L'Oréal has acquired an additional 10 percent stake in Galderma Group AG, increasing its total ownership to 20 percent, emphasizing its commitment to the aesthetics sector [1][2] - The acquisition was made from a consortium led by EQT and is expected to close by the first quarter of 2026 [3] - L'Oréal plans to support Galderma's strategy and independence while exploring synergies between injectable and topical dermatological treatments [4][5] Transaction Details - The transaction will be executed through an off-market block trade, dissolving the previous shareholder agreement with Sunshine SwissCo GmbH [3] - Funding for the acquisition will come from L'Oréal's available cash and credit lines [3] Strategic Intent - L'Oréal views aesthetics as a key area adjacent to its core beauty business and aims to solidify its partnership with Galderma, which has been successful since the initial investment in 2024 [2][4] - The partnership will leverage Galderma's expertise in dermatological solutions and L'Oréal's knowledge in skin biology and diagnostic tools [5] Governance Changes - Following the increased stake, Galderma's board will consider appointing two non-independent board candidates from L'Oréal, replacing the EQT-led consortium starting from the 2026 annual general meeting [6]

Core Insights - SEI has completed the first stage of its strategic investment in Stratos Wealth Holdings, acquiring the U.S.-based Stratos business for approximately $441 million, which represents about 81% of the total transaction value [1] - The partnership aims to enhance the wealth management ecosystem by combining SEI's strengths in advice, asset management, and administration with Stratos' independent advisory platform [1] - Stratos operates a national network of over 350 financial advisors across 29 states, advising approximately $38 billion in client assets [1] Company Overview - SEI is a leading global provider of financial technology, operations, and asset management services, managing approximately $1.8 trillion in assets as of September 30, 2025 [1] - Stratos Wealth Holdings supports independent financial advisors through flexible affiliation models and provides practice management consulting, operations, IT, and compliance services [1] Transaction Details - SEI will pay a total cash consideration of approximately $544 million for 57.5% of the equity of SEI-Eclipse Holding Company, with certain legacy Stratos equity holders retaining 42.5% [1] - The second stage of the transaction, involving the purchase of the Mexico-based NSC business, is expected to close in 2026, subject to regulatory approval [1]