Core Viewpoint - Ares Strategic Mining Inc. has commenced mining operations at its Lost Sheep Fluorspar Mine in Utah, marking a significant transition from development to production and demonstrating progress towards sustained acidspar output [1][2]. Group 1: Mining Operations - The company has successfully mined several thousands of tons of fluorspar ore, which are now stockpiled at the surface in preparation for processing [1][3]. - Underground operations are progressing steadily, with efficient extraction and transportation of ore to surface stockpiles, adhering to strong operational discipline and safety standards [3][5]. Group 2: Production Strategy - The stockpiling phase is part of a broader strategy to ensure a smooth ramp-up to full acidspar production, with infrastructure in place to support consistent throughput once the flotation plant is operational [5][8]. - The company aims to build a strategic ore inventory ahead of the flotation plant commissioning, optimize blending and grade control, and ensure an uninterrupted feedstock supply for processing [7][13]. Group 3: Market Position - Fluorspar is recognized as a critical mineral in the U.S., essential for various industries, and Ares is the only permitted and operating fluorspar mine in the country, reinforcing its position in the domestic supply chain [8][12]. - The commencement of stockpiling not only indicates operational readiness but also reflects the company's commitment to disciplined execution and long-term value creation [8][9]. Group 4: Future Outlook - Ares expects to continue expanding surface stockpiles, advance flotation plant readiness, and prepare for initial processing runs, moving closer to steady-state production [9][13]. - The company has settled CAD 185,199.23 for services rendered by issuing 381,854 common shares, which are subject to a statutory hold period [9].

Core Insights - CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. has appointed James Rodriguez de Castro as an advisor, who brings over 15 years of experience in the fluorspar industry [2][3] - The company is focused on developing fluorspar mining projects in the Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District, which is essential for various high-tech applications [3][5] - CleanTech has granted 100,000 incentive stock options to Mr. Rodriguez de Castro, exercisable over five years at an exercise price of 0.31 per option [4] Company Overview - CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. is dedicated to discovering, producing, and supplying critical mineral resources within the United States [5] - The company has an option to acquire over 17,550 acres of mineral rights with historic fluorspar resources in the Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District [5] - CleanTech also owns a 100% interest in the Gibellini Vanadium Mine Project located in Nevada [5]

Core Insights - Ares Strategic Mining Inc. has received a $168.9 million award under the U.S. Department of Defense's IDIQ contract and is launching a $10 million private placement to accelerate the construction of its acidspar flotation plant in Utah [1][2] - The company aims to become the sole domestic supplier of acid-grade fluorspar, a critical mineral designated by the U.S. [1][2] Construction Acceleration - The flotation plant is a key part of Ares' vertically integrated strategy to produce high-purity fluorspar [2] - The construction will proceed on an expedited timeline, partially funded by the new private placement offering of up to $10 million CAD [2][7] National and Global Impact - The U.S. has been entirely import-dependent on fluorspar for decades, and Ares is positioned to change this with the advancement of the Lost Sheep Mine and the flotation plant nearing completion [2] - Ares is becoming a cornerstone of America's domestic acidspar supply, with a $250 million contract ceiling under the DLA IDIQ [2] Strategic Positioning - Ares is aligned with national priorities and is recognized for rebuilding a critical American supply chain [3] Upcoming Milestones - The company plans to complete the flotation plant foundation and mechanical installations, begin first acidspar processing runs, execute first deliveries under the DoD contract, and advance uplisting to a senior exchange [6] Private Placement Details - Ares is offering a non-brokered private placement of up to 16,666,666 units at a price of $0.60 per unit for gross proceeds of up to $10 million [7][8] - Each unit consists of one common share and one-half of a non-transferable common share purchase warrant, exercisable at $0.75 per share for two years [8] Use of Proceeds - The net proceeds from the offering will be used to further develop the Lost Sheep fluorspar project, repay certain debts, and for general corporate working capital [10]

Company Overview - Ares Strategic Mining Inc. is focused on developing fluorspar projects in the U.S. and aims to become a significant supplier of high-grade fluorspar to North American markets, supporting essential industries for modern technology and infrastructure [2]. Recent Developments - On January 23, 2025, the company issued a total of 6,400,000 options to its directors and officers, allowing the purchase of 6,400,000 common shares at an exercise price of $0.63 per share, with an expiration date of January 23, 2028 [1]. Project Details - The Lost Sheep Fluorspar Project, located in Delta, Utah, was first approved on August 24, 1992, and renewed on December 12, 2016 [3]. - The project covers 5,982 acres with 353 claims in the Spor Mountain area, approximately 214 km southwest of Salt Lake City, and is fully permitted, including mining permits [5]. Technical and Regulatory Aspects - A NI 43-101 Technical Report has identified extensive high-grade fluorspar with low levels of impurities, and the mining plan has been approved by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) [5].

Core Insights - Ares Strategic Mining Inc. is making significant progress in the construction and operational advancements of its Lost Sheep Fluorspar Project in Juab County, Utah, aiming to bring North America's only permitted fluorspar mine into full-scale industrial production [1][3]. Construction and Operational Advancements - Major milestones have been achieved both underground and above ground, enhancing mine readiness and plant infrastructure [2]. - Key underground infrastructure has been finalized, enabling safe and efficient ore extraction, marking a turning point for the company [3]. - The processing plant construction has reached advanced stages, with significant progress in structural, mechanical, and process systems [4]. Specific Developments - The secondary ventilation door has been sealed to enhance airflow and comply with MSHA standards [4]. - Raise 1 has been prepared for mining with a fully installed tugger and slusher system [4]. - New drill stations have been developed to support upcoming mining activities [4]. - Over 6 cubic yards of concrete have been poured for key support columns, and structural assembly is progressing with 70% of Level 2 mainframe walkway decking installed [5]. - The crushing screening and concentrator hopper systems are being installed, with ongoing welding work and material handling systems fully installed [5][6]. Financial Developments - Ares has secured approximately $3.66 million in non-dilutive funding through agreements with Sorbie Bornholm, which will accelerate the construction of a second processing facility [10][11]. - The company recently closed a $10 million financing to support its accelerated production schedule, with plans for a non-brokered private placement offering of up to 22,222,222 units at a price of $0.45 per unit [12][15]. - Sorbie's initial investment has yielded returns of over 180% and 266%, representing a gain of over $2.66 million [14]. Strategic Importance - Fluorspar is classified as a U.S. critical mineral essential for various industries, including steel and aluminum production, lithium-ion batteries, and nuclear fuel development [8][9]. - As the only fluorspar mine in the United States, Ares is positioned to become a cornerstone of North America's strategic supply chain [9].

Core Insights - Ares Strategic Mining Inc. has successfully completed and activated its secondary underground ventilation system at the Lost Sheep Fluorspar Mine, enabling the company to commence industrial-scale mining operations in compliance with MSHA standards [1][6]. Infrastructure Development - The secondary ventilation system includes a 75-horsepower, 30-inch diameter fan that generates a minimum of 30,000 cubic feet per minute (CFM) of fresh airflow, ensuring a safe operating environment [5]. - The fan was custom-built by ABC Ventilation Systems and installed along a dedicated ventilation raise that also serves as a second egress pathway, meeting MSHA's redundancy and safety requirements [5]. - The completion of the ventilation system finalizes all critical underground infrastructure required for continuous mining operations at scale [6]. Production Readiness - With the ventilation system operational, the company is cleared to begin ore extraction at industrial levels, supporting near-term stockpiling and processing targets [7]. - Ares is positioned uniquely as the only permitted and operational fluorspar mine in the United States, which is critical for supporting North American industrial supply chains and reducing dependence on foreign sources [7]. Financial Developments - Ares has settled an aggregate of $64,901.13 of debt incurred for accounting and financial services by issuing 150,933 common shares at a deemed price of $0.43 per share [8]. Project Overview - The Lost Sheep Fluorspar Project encompasses 5,982 acres with 353 claims, located in Juab County, Utah, approximately 214 km south-west of Salt Lake City [14]. - The project is fully permitted, including mining permits, and has been identified to contain extensive high-grade fluorspar with low levels of impurities [14].

Core Viewpoint - CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. has acquired the Quarant fluorspar project, increasing its mineral rights to 15,975 acres in the Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District, positioning the company as a significant player in the U.S. fluorspar mining sector [1][3][15] Company Summary - CleanTech, through its subsidiary U.S. Fluorspar LLC, has acquired a 7,825-acre fluorspar project by assuming an existing mineral lease agreement [1][2] - The acquisition nearly doubles CleanTech's mineral rights holdings in the Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District, enhancing its status in the industry [3] - The Quarant Project surrounds CleanTech's flagship Campbell-Crotser project, which has a historic mineral resource estimate of 805,841 tons grading 37.10% CaF2 [4][12] Industry Context - The Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District historically produced 90% of America's fluorspar from 1915 to 1995, but production has shifted to imports, primarily from China, Mexico, Vietnam, and South Africa [6] - Fluorspar is a critical mineral essential for various applications, including uranium enrichment and battery production, with the U.S. currently having no domestic production [6] - The price of fluorspar in China has increased over 40% from October 2022 to October 2025, indicating rising demand and potential market opportunities [6] Project Details - The Quarant Project extends the known mineral strike of the Campbell Crotser project by an additional 3,300 feet, indicating significant exploration potential [5] - Historical mining activities in the area have produced over 375,000 tons of crude fluorspar, showcasing the region's rich mineralization history [8][9] - The Carrsville corridor, where both the Quarant and Campbell-Crotser projects are located, is recognized for its high mineral potential due to its geological features [8][9][10]

Core Insights - Ares Strategic Mining Inc. has provided a significant construction update on its Lumps Plant at the Fluorspar Project in Utah, marking a major milestone as the only domestic fluorspar processing operation in the United States [1] Construction Progress - The construction of the Lumps Plant has reached an advanced stage, with all concrete foundations and pads completed [3] - Steel frame structures are being erected, and major vessels have been fabricated and welded into place [3] - Conveyor systems are being assembled, with visible segments installed across the site, and additional structural supports are being bolted into position [3] Strategic Importance - The Lumps Plant is crucial for Ares' strategy to produce high-purity fluorspar for North American markets, supporting industries such as steel and aluminum manufacturing, refrigerants, fluoropolymers, and critical minerals for nuclear fuel and semiconductors [4][6] Future Plans - Upcoming construction efforts are expected to lead to the completion of structural assembly, installation of conveyors, initiation of equipment fit-out, and testing and commissioning of plant systems [9] - The company aims to achieve production and revenue targets aligned with market demand for critical minerals [10]

Core Viewpoint - CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. has signed a royalty agreement with Oracle Commodity Holding Corp. for its Fluorspar Projects in the Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District, which includes a 2% net smelter returns royalty and a minimum payment structure [1][2][3]. Company Summary - CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. focuses on critical mineral resources in the USA, holding an option to acquire 7,180 acres of mineral rights with historic fluorspar resources [15]. - The company owns a 100% interest in the Gibellini Vanadium Mine Project in Nevada [15]. Royalty Agreement Details - The Royalty Agreement grants Oracle a 2% net smelter returns royalty with a minimum of $6 per tonne of minerals sold [2]. - Oracle will pay USF non-refundable cash payments totaling $6,000,000 over four years, equating to 20% of the cash consideration paid to the vendor [3]. - The first cash payment from Oracle to USF will be $65,000 after TSX-V approval of the Royalty Agreement [3]. Fluorspar Projects Overview - CleanTech's Fluorspar Projects are located in the Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District, a historically significant mineral province with extensive production history [6][7]. - The district has produced over 12.5 million tons of refined fluorspar since the late 1800s, with significant mineral resource potential supported by over 720 historic drill holes [6][7]. Geological Context - The Fluorspar Projects are situated within the Kentucky-Illinois fluorspar district, characterized by Mississippian-age limestones and complex fault systems [8][9]. - The primary deposits optioned by CleanTech include Campbell-Crotser, Tabb, Babb-Barnes, and Robinson-Lasher, which are associated with steeply-dipping normal faults [9]. Market Overview - In 2024, China produced over 60% of the world's fluorspar, with production figures reaching 5.9 million tons [11]. - China has transitioned from being a net exporter to a significant importer of fluorspar since 2023, with imports rising 32% year-on-year to approximately 1.30 million tons in 2024 [13]. - The US fluorspar price has increased from approximately $300 per ton in 2020 to over $450 per ton in 2025 [13].

Core Viewpoint - CleanTech Vanadium Mining Corp. has entered into a binding option-to-purchase agreement to acquire a package of Fluorspar mining projects totaling approximately 7,180 acres in Kentucky and Illinois for a total of US$4,000,000, positioning the company as a significant player in the U.S. fluorspar market [1][2][5]. Transaction Summary - The option-to-purchase agreement allows CleanTech to acquire both groups of Fluorspar Projects for US$4,000,000 or choose one group for US$2,250,000, with payments structured over several years [2][7]. Strategic District Position - The Fluorspar Projects consist of over a dozen distinct deposits with significant historic drilling, covering key segments of the Western Kentucky Fluorspar District, which has a rich production history [3][10]. - The district's geological setting and established transportation infrastructure enhance the strategic value of CleanTech's assets in an import-dependent U.S. market [4][9]. Market Overview - The global fluorspar market is heavily influenced by China, which produced over 60% of the world's fluorspar in 2024, while the U.S. fluorspar price has increased from approximately $300 per ton in 2020 to over $450 per ton in 2025 [35][36]. - China has transitioned from being a net exporter to a significant importer of fluorspar, driven by rising demand from energy storage systems [36]. Project Details - The Fluorspar Projects include several key deposits such as Campbell-Crotser, Tabb, Babb-Barnes, and Robinson-Lasher, each with substantial historic resource estimates and strategic geological positioning [12][15][19]. - The Campbell-Crotser project is highlighted as the flagship asset, with a historic resource estimate of 805,841 tons grading 37.10% CaF2 [15][16]. - The Tabb Fault system is noted for its significant scale, historically producing 30% of all fluorspar mined in the Kentucky portion of the district [19][20]. Infrastructure and Exploration - The Babb-Barnes project features complete mine infrastructure, making it immediately viable for production, with historic production totaling 145,335 tons grading 38% CaF2 [21][22]. - The Robinson-Lasher project showcases potential for zinc alongside fluorspar, with extensive exploration already conducted [23][24]. Historical Context - The Illinois-Kentucky Fluorspar District has been a focal point for fluorspar production since the late 1800s, with significant historical extraction of refined fluorspar [9][10]. - The district's geological complexity and historical production underscore its importance as a major fluorspar province globally [12][14].