Core Points - The Kingdom of Tonga and TMC's subsidiary, Tonga Offshore Mining Ltd (TOML), signed a revised Sponsorship Agreement, updating the terms of their 2021 agreement [1][9] - The updated agreement ensures that Tonga will continue to receive financial benefits, training, and community programs while securing continuity benefits upon the commencement of commercial production [2][8] - Tonga has played a leading role in the development of the seafloor minerals industry and is committed to responsible mining practices [4][5] Company and Industry Summary - TMC is a leading developer of critical metals essential for energy, defense, manufacturing, and infrastructure, focusing on lower-impact extraction from seafloor polymetallic nodules [1][10] - The agreement highlights Tonga's commitment to transparency, fairness, and environmental care in seabed mineral activities, aligning with its long-term development goals [4][6] - The International Seabed Authority (ISA) has faced delays in adopting Exploitation Regulations, impacting TOML's ability to proceed with commercial exploitation activities [9]

Core Points - The Government of Nauru and TMC have signed a revised Sponsorship Agreement, updating the terms from 2017, which ensures continued financial benefits and support for community programs in Nauru [1][2][5] - Nauru aims to enhance its economic stability through responsible deep-sea mineral development, guided by scientific research and ecological safeguards [6][7] - The partnership between Nauru and TMC is positioned as a model for other developing states in the deep-sea mining industry, emphasizing sustainable practices and community benefits [3][4][7] Group 1 - The revised Agreement guarantees that Nauru will continue to receive existing financial benefits and community support while ensuring continuity benefits upon the commencement of commercial production by NORI or TMC [2][5] - Nauru has taken a leading role in the deep-sea mining industry, having conducted 22 offshore research campaigns and developed a comprehensive dataset on deep-sea environmental information [3][5] - The President of Nauru highlighted the importance of science-based solutions for climate change and the need for small island nations to participate in the energy transition [3][4] Group 2 - The Agreement stipulates that the majority of financial benefits will be directed into Nauru's Intergenerational Trust Fund to enhance long-term economic resilience [6] - TMC's Chairman emphasized the importance of a science- and rules-based approach to deep-seabed mineral development, which has shaped the trajectory of the industry [7] - Nauru remains committed to working with the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and acknowledges the delays in adopting Exploitation Regulations that have affected NORI's commercial plans [5][6]

Core Insights - TMC the metals company Inc. reported significant advancements in the deep-sea critical minerals industry, highlighted by the submission of the first-ever application for a commercial recovery permit under U.S. law, marking a pivotal moment for the company and the industry as a whole [4][9] - The company announced a strategic investment of $37 million through a registered direct offering, aimed at advancing its deep-sea mineral development initiatives [8] - TMC's financial results for Q1 2025 showed a net loss of $20.6 million, an improvement from the previous year's loss, alongside a decrease in exploration and evaluation expenses [16][17] Financial Highlights - Total liquidity as of March 31, 2025, was approximately $43.8 million, including cash of $2.3 million [7] - The company reported a net loss of $20.6 million for Q1 2025, compared to a net loss of $25.1 million for the same period in 2024 [16] - Exploration and evaluation expenses decreased to $9.5 million in Q1 2025 from $18.1 million in Q1 2024, attributed to reduced environmental study costs [16] Operational Highlights - TMC USA submitted applications for a commercial recovery permit and two exploration licenses covering a total area of 25,160 square kilometers, with estimated resources of 1.635 billion wet tonnes of polymetallic nodules [9] - The company welcomed Rutger Bosland as Chief Innovation and Offshore Technology Officer to lead offshore innovation and scale technologies for commercial production [10] - A partnership with PAMCO achieved a processing milestone, successfully smelting 450 tonnes of calcine into critical alloy products [11] Industry Developments - The signing of an Executive Order by President Trump aimed at expediting the permitting process for seabed mining, which is expected to bolster domestic supply chains for critical minerals [12][13] - TMC CEO Gerard Barron testified before the U.S. House Natural Resources Subcommittee, emphasizing the importance of deep-sea minerals for U.S. industrial future and national security [14]

Core Viewpoint - TMC the metals company Inc. announced a $37 million registered direct offering to advance its commercial development plans and support operations through the potential issuance of a commercial recovery permit [1][2][3] Group 1: Offering Details - TMC will issue 12.3 million common shares at $3.00 per share, with each share accompanied by a Class C warrant to purchase one additional share at an exercise price of $4.50 per share [2] - The warrants have a three-year term and include a compulsory exercise provision if the stock trades above $7.00 per share for 20 consecutive trading days [2] - Gross proceeds are expected to total approximately $37 million before expenses, sufficient to fund operations through the potential issuance of a commercial recovery permit [2][6] Group 2: Strategic Partnerships - Michael Hess and Brian Paes-Braga are participating in the offering, bringing extensive experience in exploration and production [1][3] - The partnership aims to advance America's mineral independence and support the development of ocean minerals [3][6] Group 3: Regulatory Context - The offering is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close on or about May 22, 2025 [2] - Shelf registration statements related to the securities were filed and declared effective by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission [3]

Core Viewpoint - The Metals Company (TMC) is advocating for the United States to reclaim its leadership in deep-sea mining to enhance energy and supply chain security, as well as national defense, by responsibly unlocking critical minerals from the deep seabed [2][3][4]. Group 1: Deep-Sea Mining Potential - TMC's CEO Gerard Barron testified that the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, located 2.5 miles deep in the ocean, contains polymetallic nodules rich in nickel, cobalt, manganese, and copper, which hold more minerals than all known land-based reserves combined [3][4]. - The company estimates that seabed mineral extraction could create over 100,000 American jobs and generate over $300 billion in GDP [3][4]. Group 2: Regulatory Framework - The U.S. has a long-established regulatory framework for deep-sea mining through the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act of 1980 (DSHMRA), which empowers NOAA to regulate exploration and commercial recovery [5]. - TMC USA has submitted the first-ever application for a commercial recovery permit under DSHMRA, marking a significant milestone in establishing a U.S.-regulated supply of critical seabed minerals [4][5]. Group 3: Environmental Considerations - Barron emphasized that real-world data dispels common environmental myths regarding deep-sea mining, asserting that the U.S. can develop these resources without sacrificing landscapes or communities [3][4]. - Dr. Thomas Peacock from MIT highlighted the need for decisions on deep-sea mining to be based on the latest scientific findings, countering misinformation about environmental impacts [3][4].

Core Viewpoint - President Trump's executive order aims to enhance U.S. self-sufficiency in critical minerals by promoting deep-sea mining, which could benefit companies like The Metals Company [2][4][11] Group 1: Executive Order and Its Implications - The executive order directs the secretaries of Interior and Commerce to expedite U.S. efforts in exploring deep-sea mining for critical minerals [2] - The order aims to develop domestic capabilities for exploration, characterization, collection, and processing of critical deep seabed minerals [4] - It seeks to strengthen partnerships with allies and industry to counter China's influence in the seabed mineral resource space [4] Group 2: The Metals Company Overview - The Metals Company focuses on deep-sea mining and has developed a system to collect polymetallic nodules from the seabed [5] - The company completed a successful pilot test in 2022, collecting approximately 4,500 metric tons of nodules and achieving a sustained hourly production rate of 86.4 metric tons [6] - The Metals Company holds exclusive exploration rights in the Clarion Clipperton Zone, with resources estimated to meet the requirements for 280 million electric vehicles [7] Group 3: Market Context and Challenges - The U.S. is heavily reliant on imports for 12 of the 50 minerals deemed critical, with China being a leading producer of 29 of those minerals [3] - The international community has not yet endorsed deep-sea mining, and The Metals Company is awaiting approval from the International Seabed Authority (ISA) for seabed mining regulations [8] - Trump's push for deep-sea mining has faced opposition from China, which claims the proposal violates international law [9] Group 4: Investment Considerations - While the executive order is seen as a positive for The Metals Company, uncertainties remain regarding the company's ability to commence commercial operations and achieve profitability [11][10] - Investors are advised to consider the high-risk nature of investing in The Metals Company at this time [12]

Core Viewpoint - TMC the metals company Inc. has submitted applications for a commercial recovery permit and two exploration licenses, marking a significant step towards the U.S. leadership in deep-sea mining and securing critical minerals for industrial use [1][2][12]. Group 1: Applications and Regulatory Framework - TMC USA has applied for a commercial recovery permit and two exploration licenses under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA) and NOAA regulations, which are part of the U.S. seabed mining code [1][13]. - The commercial recovery permit application covers an area of 25,160 square kilometers known as TMC USA-A_2, which includes already indicated and measured resources in the Clarion Clipperton Zone (CCZ) [4][13]. - The applications are expected to be reviewed by NOAA, with an initial determination on compliance within 30 days and a full review including environmental evaluations thereafter [7]. Group 2: Resource Estimates - TMC USA believes the exploration areas TMC USA-A and USA-B contain SEC SK 1300-compliant resources of 1,635 million wet tonnes of polymetallic nodules, with an additional estimated 500 million tonnes of potential exploration upside [5][13]. - The estimated resources include approximately 15.5 million tonnes of nickel, 12.8 million tonnes of copper, 2.0 million tonnes of cobalt, and 345 million tonnes of manganese [5][13]. Group 3: Strategic Importance and Investment Potential - The strategic move under DSHMRA is expected to mobilize tens of billions of dollars in private sector investment across various U.S. industries, including shipbuilding, port infrastructure, and minerals processing [6]. - TMC has invested over half a billion dollars in deep-sea science, engineering, and technology to prepare for this moment, aiming to deliver the world's first commercial nodule project responsibly and transparently [4][6].

Core Insights - TMC the metals company Inc. has appointed Rutger Bosland as Chief Innovation and Offshore Technology Officer to enhance its nodule collection technologies ahead of the first planned commercial production of deep-sea polymetallic nodules [1][3] Company Developments - Rutger Bosland brings nearly two decades of experience from Allseas, where he led the development of TMC's nodule collection system and the conversion of a deep-water drillship into the world's first subsea mining vessel [2][6] - The company's NORI and TOML projects are recognized as the two largest undeveloped nickel projects globally, with a higher nickel equivalent grade than any other major undeveloped nickel project on land [3] - In 2022, TMC's NORI subsidiary successfully collected over 3,000 tons of nodules from the seafloor, demonstrating the efficiency and responsibility of its technology [3] Regulatory and Strategic Initiatives - TMC has initiated a process with NOAA to apply for exploration licenses and commercial recovery permits under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act of 1980 [4] - The company aims to supply critical metals for infrastructure and power generation while ensuring minimal environmental impact [5]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2024, the company reported a net loss of $16.1 million, or $0.05 per share, compared to a net loss of $33.5 million, or $0.11 per share for the same period in 2023, indicating a significant improvement in financial performance [66] - Exploration and evaluation expenses decreased to $8.3 million from $26.7 million in Q4 2023, primarily due to the completion of Campaign 8 and reduced costs in environmental studies [66][67] - General and administrative expenses increased to $8.1 million from $6.6 million in Q4 2023, mainly due to higher share-based compensation and consulting costs [67] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company successfully completed its first integrated collection system test since the 1970s, lifting over 3,000 tons of nodules to the surface, demonstrating advancements in operational capabilities [15] - The company has conducted 23 offshore research campaigns, significantly more than most contractors, showcasing its commitment to extensive research and development [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company highlighted the geopolitical significance of deep-sea mining, noting that China is actively pursuing deep-sea mining partnerships, which could impact market dynamics and competition [30][31] - Increased interest from major economies in deep-sea resources could positively affect the total addressable market for the company's services [31] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company announced a strategic shift to pursue commercial production through the U.S. regulatory framework, specifically the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act (DSHMRA), as a response to delays in the International Seabed Authority (ISA) mining code [19][20] - The company aims to leverage its extensive environmental data and research to support its applications under the DSHMRA, positioning itself as a leader in responsible deep-sea mining [18][59] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's readiness to begin production, citing a wealth of environmental impact data and a robust regulatory framework under DSHMRA [18][19] - The management acknowledged the challenges posed by the ISA's delays but emphasized the potential for the U.S. to regain leadership in the deep-sea mining industry [32][34] Other Important Information - The company has gathered nearly one petabyte of environmental data, which is expected to support its applications and enhance public trust in its operations [59] - The company entered into a registered direct offering, issuing 19.9 million common shares and 9.95 million Class B warrants, raising gross proceeds of $19.9 million [69] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on DSHMRA and License Areas - The company clarified that the DSHMRA allows access to high seas minerals, and while specific areas for application are still under discussion, they aim to utilize prior work done in the region [73][76][78] Question: Participation of Allseas in DSHMRA - Management confirmed that Allseas can legally participate as a partner, provided the production vessel is U.S. flagged [81] Question: NOAA Process vs. ISA Pathway - The company views the NOAA process as a new, advantageous path that complements the ISA process, leveraging existing environmental work [87][88] Question: Timeline for Economic Study - The economic study is expected to be completed in the first half of the year, ahead of the applications to the U.S. [96] Question: Environmental Impact Study Completion - The environmental impact study is progressing alongside the economic feasibility study, with data collection ongoing [100][102] Question: Termination of Contract with Third Sponsor State - The decision to terminate the contract was based on prioritizing resources towards more promising blocks, NORI and TAMO, which require focused investment [106][108] Question: Service Business Revenue Expectations - Management expressed optimism about the service business, anticipating revenue opportunities in the coming years due to the company's expertise and ongoing inquiries [110][112]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Q4 2024, the company reported a net loss of $16.1 million, or $0.05 per share, compared to a net loss of $33.5 million, or $0.11 per share for the same period in 2023, indicating a significant reduction in losses [66] - Exploration and evaluation expenses decreased to $8.3 million from $26.7 million in Q4 2023, primarily due to the completion of Campaign 8 and lower costs in mining technology and process development [66][67] - General and administrative expenses increased to $8.1 million from $6.6 million in Q4 2023, mainly due to higher share-based compensation and consulting costs [67] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company successfully completed its first integrated collection system test since the 1970s, lifting over 3,000 tons of nodules to the surface, and processed them into high-grade nickel-copper-cobalt alloy and manganese silicate [15] - The company has conducted 23 offshore research campaigns, significantly more than most contractors, demonstrating its commitment to environmental studies and resource evaluation [16] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is preparing to submit applications for commercial production under the U.S. regulatory framework, which has been in place since the 1980s, indicating a strategic shift in its operational approach [19][20] - The geopolitical landscape is shifting, with increased interest in deep-sea mining from countries like China, South Korea, Japan, and India, which could positively impact the total addressable market for the company's services [31][34] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to leverage its extensive environmental data and research to pursue commercial production through the U.S. regulatory framework, which is viewed as more favorable than the current ISA process [19][42] - The focus is on responsible extraction of polymetallic nodules with minimal environmental impact, positioning the company as a leader in sustainable deep-sea mining [10][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the company's readiness to begin production, citing extensive environmental data and a well-designed system to minimize impacts [18][59] - The management highlighted the importance of U.S. leadership in the deep-sea mining industry, especially in light of geopolitical tensions and the need for metal independence [33][34] Other Important Information - The company has gathered nearly one petabyte of environmental data, which is one of the largest datasets compiled for deep-sea mining, supporting its application for commercial recovery [59] - The company has initiated a formal process of pre-application consultation with NOAA, which is expected to facilitate the permitting process [21][46] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on DSHMRA and license areas - Management clarified that the U.S. will argue for access to high seas under the Freedom of the Seas Treaty, and the specific areas for application are still under discussion [75][77] Question: Participation of Allseas in the U.S. application - Management confirmed that Allseas can legally participate as a partner, provided the production vessel is U.S. flagged [82] Question: Impact of NOAA process on permitting - Management indicated that the NOAA process is viewed as an advantageous new path, not a complete shift from the ISA pathway [88] Question: Timeline for economic study and application submission - Management expects the economic study to be completed in advance of the U.S. applications, which are planned for June [97] Question: Environmental impact study completion - Management stated that the environmental writing is progressing rapidly and is expected to align with the economic feasibility study [102] Question: Termination of contract with a third sponsor state - Management explained that the decision was based on prioritizing resources on more promising blocks, NORI and TAMO, which require focused investment [106][108] Question: Future revenue from service business - Management expressed optimism about the service business, highlighting the expertise built around environmental work programs and resource definition [112]