Company Overview - ValOre Metals Corp. has achieved significant milestones in 2025, including the development of its Pedra Branca PGE project in Brazil and the completion of a Trado auger drilling program at the Esbarro deposit [2][3] - The company has received approval for Final Exploration Reports for key mineral claims, marking a major regulatory advancement [2] - A metallurgical testwork program has commenced in collaboration with the University of Cape Town [2] Strategic Developments - ValOre has engaged Lycopodium as the lead process engineering consultant for the Pedra Branca project, enhancing its development pathway [3] - The company aims to transition from a pure exploration focus to becoming an integrated precious metals producer, targeting new opportunities in the critical and precious metals sector [4] Precious Metals Market Insights - 2025 has seen gold prices reach new record highs, exceeding $4,400 per ounce, driven by geopolitical tensions and expectations of interest rate cuts [5] - Platinum and Palladium prices have nearly doubled over the last six months, reversing years of depressed conditions [6] Demand Drivers for Platinum Group Elements (PGE) - Automotive demand remains a dominant driver, with approximately 40% of total Platinum demand and 80% of Palladium and Rhodium demand coming from automotive catalysts [7] - Jewelry demand for Platinum is forecasted to rise by 5-9% in 2025, particularly in China [9] - Investment demand for Platinum has increased significantly, with physical platinum bar and coin demand in China growing from nearly zero in 2019 to over 400,000 ounces in 2025 [13] Supply Challenges - The market has experienced three consecutive annual deficits in PGE supply, with the 2025 shortfall estimated at 692,000 ounces [14] - Finding new economic PGE deposits is challenging due to geological rarity and the high costs associated with developing these deposits [15][16] Pedra Branca Project Advantages - The Pedra Branca project benefits from Brazil's streamlined licensing and permitting processes, as well as excellent access to transport and electrical infrastructure [17] - The near-surface mineral resource at Pedra Branca allows for low-cost open-cast mining, reducing the capital required for development [19] - ValOre's experienced team is focused on delivering the project, covering various aspects from exploration to community engagement [20] Future Outlook - The company aims to sharpen its strategic direction and position itself for sustainable development of the Pedra Branca project in 2026 [23] - ValOre is committed to transparency and regular updates on progress, emphasizing responsible and value-focused work [24]