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Skyharbour Resources Ltd. (TSX-V:SYH)  (OTCQX:SYHBF) (Frankfurt:SC1P) (‘Skyharbour’, ‘SYH’ or the ‘Company’) is pleased to announce plans for a major 2026 exploration campaign spanning several of the newly-formed Russel Lake joint ventures with Denison Mines Corp. (‘Denison’) (TSX:DML) (NYSE American: DNN). Over 15,000 metres of diamond drilling is planned across the Wheeler North, RL, and Getty East joint ventures, each of which were formed following completion of the strategic transaction with Denison in December 2025 that resulted in a reorganization of the former Russell Lake uranium project into four separate property joint ventures (the ‘Russell Lake Joint Ventures’).

Reorganization of the Russell Lake Project:
https://www.skyharbourltd.com/_resources/images/Russell-Map-New.jpg

The Russell Lake Joint Ventures are strategically located in the central portion of the eastern Athabasca Basin of northern Saskatchewan, to the east of Denison’s flagship Wheeler River project, and with access to significant regional infrastructure, including an exploration camp, provincial highways, and the provincial power grid.

Russell Lake Project Area Location Map:
https://www.skyharbourltd.com/_resources/images/SKY_RussellLake.jpg

Highlights of 2026 Exploration Plans:

  • Immediate start to exploration at Denison-operated Wheeler North property with 2,500 metres planned for winter drilling at the Fox Lake Trail target, where previous drilling identified extensive faulting and intense illite- and dravite-dominated alteration, together with elevated uranium and boron geochemistry which confirms the presence of strong uranium-mineralizing hydrothermal systems.
  • Additional 5,000 metres of drilling at the Wheeler North property’s Fork and Sphinx target areas is planned for later in the year, intending to follow up on drilling from the last two years which confirmed prospective structures and/or uranium mineralization.
  • Target generation and diamond drilling follow up planned for Skyharbour-operated RL property expected to consist of ground EM surveys and 4,000-5,000 metres of diamond drilling across several prospective targets.
  • Ground geophysical surveys and approximately 3,600 metres of diamond drilling targeting the Little Mann Lake prospect area and priority targets along the extension of the mineralized Middle Lake Trend on the Getty East property.
  • In total, over 15,000 metres of diamond drilling planned in 2026 across newly reorganized properties at the Russell Lake Joint Ventures.

Jordan Trimble, President and CEO of Skyharbour, stated: ‘2026 is set to be a transformative year for Skyharbour and the upcoming commencement of drilling at the recently formed Russell Lake joint ventures represents a key near-term catalyst. The planned +15,000-metre, multi-phased drill campaign at Russell is a substantial increase to previous annual drilling programs as we accelerate exploration efforts together with our new funding-partner, Denison, using systematic and proven exploration methodologies. We are confident that this collaboration with Denison will expedite the discovery process and leverage Denison’s success in exploring, permitting, and developing the neighboring Wheeler River Project, where the high-grade Phoenix deposit is positioned to become the next new large-scale uranium mine built in the region since the Cigar Lake mine.’

Mr. Trimble continued: ‘The Russell Lake Joint Ventures encompass one of the largest and most prospective land packages in the Athabasca Basin region, with a combination of proximity to existing and developing mines, as well as low-cost drilling and relatively shallow target depths. Combined with our recently announced plans for drilling in 2026 at our adjacent Moore Project, as well as at our Preston Project JV and various other partner-funded projects, the Company will have consistent news flow throughout 2026. With over 30,000 metres of diamond drilling anticipated across Skyharbour’s project portfolio in 2026, we believe the Company offers unique and significant discovery optionality.’

Wheeler North Property Plans:

Wheeler North consists of 16,409 hectares over eight claims that host numerous prospective exploration targets located adjacent to the Wheeler River Project. Ownership is initially 51% Skyharbour and 49% Denison, with Denison serving as the operator and holding additional earn-in options to achieve up to a 70% ownership interest. 

At Wheeler North, Denison is planning an exploration program comprising approximately 13 diamond drill holes totalling approximately 7,500 metres this year. The work is expected to be sole funded by Denison pursuant to its earn-in options, and is set to commence shortly with a focus on three high-priority target areas: Fork, Sphinx, and Fox Lake Trail (‘FLT’).

At the Fork Zone, previous drilling by Skyharbour confirmed the presence of high-grade uranium mineralization, including the high-grade intersection in drill hole RSL24-02, which returned 3.0% U3O8 over 0.5 metres. Drilling in 2025 identified a broad corridor of intense sandstone and basement alteration associated with favourable geochemistry along strike to the north of hole RSL24-02. Drilling planned for 2026 will focus on systematically testing this intense alteration corridor with the objective of expanding the known mineralized footprint at the Fork Target.

To the northwest of the Fork Zone, the Sphinx target area has emerged as a newly identified, high-priority target area, which is located approximately one kilometre from Denison’s Phoenix deposit. Inaugural drilling completed in 2025 intersected a faulted graphitic unit in the basement, confirming the presence of a prospective reactivated structural corridor at Sphinx. The projected unconformity intersection of this structure is considered a priority follow-up target, with additional drilling planned to test this setting along strike.

At the Fox Lake Trail (‘FLT’) Zone, drilling in 2025 by Skyharbour intersected strong hydrothermal alteration associated with uranium-mineralizing systems, including intense sandstone desilicification, brecciation, fracturing, elevated boron values, and widespread illite- and dravite-dominant clay alteration. Notably, drill hole RSL25-03A intersected a strongly altered sandstone fault zone with boron values up to 5,360 ppm, while RSL25-02 intersected anomalous basement-hosted uranium within a faulted graphitic unit, collectively indicating proximity to a fertile uranium-bearing structural corridor. A focused follow-up program of three to four drill holes is planned to commence in winter 2026, with contingency drill targets available on additional untested conductors within the FLT area.

RL Property Plans: 

The RL property covers 53,192 hectares over 16 claims located north and west of Skyharbour’s adjacent Moore Project. Skyharbour owns an 80% interest and is the project operator while Denison owns 20% and has committed to funding its share of the next $10 million in exploration expenditures on the property. 

The property hosts numerous exploration target areas, including Christie Lake, Blue Steel, Taylor Bay, South Russell, and Kowalchuk Lake. Skyharbour is carrying out electromagnetic (‘EM’) surveys to further refine and prioritize targets along prospective structural corridors and underexplored conductors. This work will be followed by targeted diamond drilling of approximately 4,000 to 5,000 metres this year in 10-14 drill holes, designed to test high-priority targets generated from the integration of historical datasets, recent drilling results, and new geophysical interpretations.

Getty East Property Plans:

Getty East consists of one claim covering 3,105 hectares and hosts the Little Mann Lake uranium zone, as well as the interpreted extension of the Middle Lake trend. Skyharbour owns 70% of the property and will initially act as operator.  Denison has an initial 30% ownership interest, and holds additional earn-in options to acquire up to a 70% interest in the project, as well as the right to become the project operator. The work planned for 2026 is expected to be sole funded by Denison pursuant to its earn-in options.

Skyharbour is planning approximately 16.2 line-kilometres of ground MLTDEM surveying to better define priority conductive corridors associated with the interpreted extension of the Middle Lake trend. Historical drilling on this trend, located to the south of the Getty East property, returned high-grade uranium mineralization, including 22.1% U3O8 over 0.9 metres in drill hole ML-30. The geophysical survey is expected to be followed up by approximately 3,600 metres of diamond drilling in about 10 drill holes to test targets generated from the new geophysics and supported by historical drilling results.

Overview of Recent Skyharbour Exploration Programs at Russell:

Skyharbour recently drilled 19 holes totalling 9,844 metres, together with Moving Loop and Fixed Loop Transient Electromagnetic (TEM) surveys completed across multiple priority target areas within the original Russell Lake project area. This exploration focused on advancing several high-priority targets, including the Fork Zone, M-Zone Extension, Fox Lake Trail, and the newly identified Sphinx target area. Denison and Skyharbour plan to follow-up on the findings of the previously exploration at Russell with the 2026 programs.

First Phase of Exploration:

In the first phase, 8 diamond drill holes totalling 4,124 metres, were completed with 6 of these holes drilled at the newly identified Fork Zone to follow up on the high-grade mineralization intersected in previously reported hole RSL24-02. The remaining 2 holes were drilled at the M-Zone Extension, targeting historical ground EM anomalies.

The Fork Zone was discovered in 2024 and is host to the best uranium mineralization intercepted to date at the Russell Lake project. The highlight results included high-grade unconformity-hosted mineralization intercepted in previously reported RSL24-02, which returned 3.0% U3O8 over 0.5 metres within a broader 2.5-metre interval averaging 0.72% U3O8 at a relatively shallow depth of 338.1 metres. Prior to 2024, the Fork Target had seen minimal historical exploration due to the lack of reliable ground geophysical data, primarily caused by interference from the nearby powerline.

Sphinx and Fork Target Areas – Drill Collar Map:
http://www.skyharbourltd.com/_resources/images/Sphinx-and-Fork-Target-Areas-Drill-Collar-Map-0005.jpg

Hole RSL24-12 at the Fork Zone intersected 0.17% U3O8 over 0.5 metres from 337.8 to 338.3 metres at the unconformity. Anomalous As, Ni, Pb, V, Zn, and B were intersected, in addition to weak uranium mineralization from 330.0 metres until the unconformity at 338.3 metres. Basement geochemistry returned anomalous uranium within altered and structurally disrupted graphitic metasediments. RSL24-12 tested for continuity of mineralization encountered in RSL24-02 to the SSW but the optimum target at the unconformity was undershot thereby warranting further drilling here. Holes RSL24-11, -13, -14, -15, and -16 all intersected anomalous pathfinder elements at the Fork Zone associated with the hanging wall of the structure in graphitic basement lithologies, in addition to anomalous uranium ranging from 11.8(partial) to 150(partial) ppm U.

Fork Target Area – Drill Collar Map:
http://www.skyharbourltd.com/_resources/images/Fork-Target-Area-Drill-Collar-Map-0002.jpg

The MZE (‘M-Zone Extension’) target lies on trend from Denison’s Wheeler River Project M-Zone, where historical drilling intersected basement and unconformity-hosted uranium mineralization. More recent drilling by Denison in 2020 at the M-Zone encountered additional uranium mineralization, along with significant faulting, core loss, geochemical anomalies, and radioactivity. The mineralization at M-Zone is hosted by a graphitic thrust fault within a significant magnetic low, which continues onto the Russell Lake property area at the M-Zone Extension target. It is also noted that lineaments (cross structures) associated with Denison’s Phoenix and Gryphon uranium deposits trend onto the Russell Lake property within the M-Zone Extension target area, further enhancing the prospectivity of this target.

Hole RSL24-17 was drilled to follow up on a 2024 hole at the MZE Zone that was lost in structurally disrupted and altered sandstone before reaching its target. RSL24-17 similarly encountered intense structure and alteration in the sandstone and was lost before intersecting the basement. Hole RSL24-18 intersected moderate hydrothermal hematite within the basal sandstone, and strong shearing locally overprinted by well-developed fault breccia and gouge within the basement. Anomalous uranium was intersected within fractured and altered granitic lithologies.

In addition to the drilling above, focused ground geophysical programs were completed over the Fork, Sphinx and Fox Lake Trail targets within the central and northern portions of the Russell Lake project area. The surveys across the Fork–Sphinx areas identified a series of previously unrecognized conductive anomalies, including four sub-parallel conductors at the Fork area, at least one conductive trend at Sphinx, and an additional parallel trend located between the Fork and Sphinx trends, now referred to as the McGowan trend. All of these conductors were virtually untested prior to the work in 2025. At the Fox Lake Trail area, the survey delineated four parallel conductive trends, of which only two had been drill tested prior to 2025, as earlier surveys failed to adequately resolve these features.

Second Phase of Exploration:

The second phase of drilling comprised of 11 drill holes totaling 5,720 metres, targeting the newly identified, high-priority conductors while also expanding on the successful 2024 discovery at the Fork Zone. Fork is now understood to be a northeast–southwest–trending structural corridor that runs sub-parallel to the historical Grayling Zone and remains largely underexplored. The northern strike extension of the Fork Trend, together with multiple parallel conductive trends to the west, remain virtually untested and represent high-priority targets for follow-up drilling.

Of the 11 holes in the second phase, 6 holes totaling 2,397 metres were completed at the Fork Zone. Hole RSL24-12W1 intersected 2.0 metres averaging 0.28% U3O8, including 0.5 metres of 0.68% U3O8 southwest of hole RSL24-02, confirming continuity along and across strike. A four-hole fence (RSL25-05, -08, -09, and -10) drilled approximately 325 metres north of RSL24-02 tested newly defined, parallel EM conductors located approximately 500 metres west of the historical Grayling showing. These conductors were untested prior to Skyharbour’s 2025 drilling. Holes RSL25-05, -08, and -10 intersected intense sandstone-hosted faulting with bleaching, desilicification, core loss, and clay alteration locally including visible dravite. Hole RSL25-09 intersected a graphitic basement fault zone and clay analyses confirmed illite-dominant alteration with local dravite, consistent with fertile uranium systems in the Athabasca Basin. An additional hole, RSL25-06, drilled approximately 330 metres SSW of RSL24-02, intersected granitic basement and did not explain the EM response. Further drilling in the area is required to adequately test this target with plans in 2026 to do so.

The faulting and associated alteration encountered in RSL25-05, -08, -09, and -10 represent the strongest structural and hydrothermal alteration intensity identified at the Fork Zone to date. This alteration system remains unconstrained along strike in both directions and across strike to the west, highlighting significant upside potential which has already produced grades of up to 3% U3O8 at the target area.

Skyharbour also completed a single drill hole, RSL25-07A, to test a newly identified ground EM conductor at the Sphinx target, representing the first drill test of this target. Sphinx is located approximately one kilometre southeast of the Phoenix deposit on the Wheeler River Project. The hole confirmed the EM anomaly as a faulted and altered graphitic pelite unit, intersected approximately 140 metres below the unconformity. The graphitic fault zone shows evidence of post-Athabasca reactivation and is associated with pervasive bleaching, supporting the interpretation of a structurally fertile system.

Geochemical sampling from RSL25-07A returned elevated uranium and associated pathfinder elements within faulted and graphitic intervals. PIMA analysis identified illite-dominant clay alteration in the sandstone and illite–chlorite alteration in the basement, indicating a well-developed hydrothermal system. Together, these results support the interpretation of a reactivated, structurally focused uranium-fertile corridor at Sphinx. With only one drill hole completed to date and the target located proximal to the Phoenix deposit, Sphinx remains a high-priority target for follow-up drilling planned in 2026.

Furthermore, Skyharbour completed 4 drill holes at the Fox Lake Trail area, located at the northern end of the Russell Lake project area. The drilling tested two of the recently defined conductors by the 2025 ground EM survey within a broad conductive corridor that has seen limited historical drilling with sporadic uranium mineralization and favourable hydrothermal alteration.

Fox Lake Trail Target Area – Drill Collar Map:
http://www.skyharbourltd.com/_resources/images/Fox-Lake-Trail-Target-Area-Drill-Collar-Map_rev-0003.jpg

Holes RSL25-02, RSL25-03A, and RSL25-04 tested the strike extension of the same conductive trend, while hole RSL25-01 tested a parallel conductive target to the southeast. The two drill fences are spaced approximately 800 metres apart. Holes RSL25-03A and RSL25-04 encountered the strongest hydrothermal alteration observed at Fox Lake Trail to date, including brecciation and significant quartz dissolution, while hole RSL25-02 intersected anomalous basement-hosted uranium of 250 ppm U over 0.5 metres within a faulted graphitic unit. Clay analysis confirmed illite- and dravite-dominant alteration. These conductive trends remain largely underexplored along strike, with an additional priority target identified through reinterpretation of historical EM data between the two drill fences, supporting continued follow-up exploration at Fox Lake Trail. Drilling will commence shortly at this target area.

Summary of Russell Lake Joint Ventures:

The Russell Lake Joint Ventures encompass a large, advanced-stage uranium exploration land package totalling 73,314 hectares in the eastern Athabasca Basin of northern Saskatchewan. The properties are strategically positioned between Cameco’s Key Lake and McArthur River operations and immediately east of Denison’s Wheeler River Project.

Following the completion of a major strategic transaction with Denison in 2025, the former Russell Lake project was restructured into four separate joint venture uranium properties: RL, Wheeler North, Getty East, and Wheeler River Inliers. Each property is subject to its own joint venture agreement with operatorship divided between the partners. Skyharbour is the operator at the RL Claims and Getty East, and Denison is the operator at Wheeler North and the Wheeler River Inliers. In aggregate, the strategic transaction included total project consideration of up to C$61.5 million with Skyharbour retaining an 80% interest at RL while Denison can earn up-to 70% at each of the other properties.

The Russell Lake Joint Ventures benefit from excellent regional infrastructure, with the northern extension of Highway 914 traversing the western portion of the land package and a high-voltage provincial powerline running parallel to the road. Across the joint ventures, there are numerous high-priority exploration targets including the Grayling, Fork, Little Mann Lake, Christie Lake, Fox Lake Trail, Sphinx, Blue Steel, Taylor Bay, South Russell, and Kowalchuk Zones. In addition, more than 35 kilometres of largely untested prospective electromagnetic conductors occur across the joint venture properties, highlighting the substantial discovery potential.

QA/QC, Radiometric Equivalent Grades and Spectrometer Readings:

All drill intervals above are downhole length and sampling procedures and QA/QC protocols for geochemical results as well as a description of downhole gamma probe grade calculations and protocols are below. All drill core samples are shipped to the Saskatchewan Research Council Geoanalytical Laboratories (SRC) in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan under the care of Skyharbour personnel for preparation, processing, and multi-element analysis by ICP-MS and ICP-OES using total (HF:NHO3:HClO4) and partial digestion (HNO3:HCl), boron by fusion, and U3O8 wt% assay by ICP-OES using higher grade standards. Assay samples are chosen based on downhole probing radiometric equivalent uranium grades and scintillometer (Radiation Solutions RS-125) peaks. Assay sample intervals comprise 0.5 metre continuous half-core split samples over the mineralized interval. These samples may also be selected for density determination using Rock Density by Dry Bulk Method (wax-coated displacement method). With all assay samples, one half of the split sample is retained and the other sent to the SRC for analysis. The SRC is an ISO/IEC 17025/2005 and Standards Council of Canada certified analytical laboratory. Blanks, standard reference materials, and repeats are inserted into the sample stream at regular intervals by Skyharbour and the SRC in accordance with Skyharbour’s quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) procedures. Geochemical assay data are subject to verification procedures by qualified persons employed by Skyharbour prior to disclosure.

During active exploration programs, drillholes are radiometrically logged using calibrated downhole Mount Sopris HLP-2375 or 2GHF probes of varying sensitivities, which collect continuous readings along the length of the drillhole. Preliminary radiometric equivalent uranium grades (‘eU3O8‘) are then calculated from the downhole radiometric results. The probe is calibrated using an algorithm calculated from the calibration of the probe at the Saskatchewan Research Council facility in Saskatoon and from the comparison of probe results against geochemical analyses. In the case where core recovery within a mineralized intersection is poor or non-existent, radiometric grades are considered to be more representative of the mineralized intersection and may be reported in the place of assay grades. Radiometric equivalent probe results are subject to verification procedures by qualified persons employed by Skyharbour prior to disclosure. 

Qualified Person:

The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 and reviewed and approved by Serdar Donmez, P.Geo., VP of Exploration for Skyharbour, as well as a Qualified Person.

About Skyharbour Resources Ltd.:

Skyharbour holds an extensive portfolio of uranium exploration projects in Canada’s Athabasca Basin and is well positioned to benefit from improving uranium market fundamentals with interest in forty-three projects covering over 662,887 hectares (over 1.6 million acres) of land. Skyharbour owns a 100% interest in the Moore Uranium Project, which is located 15 kilometres east of Denison’s Wheeler River project and 39 kilometres south of Cameco’s McArthur River uranium mine. Moore is an advanced-stage, uranium exploration property with high-grade, shallow uranium mineralization at the Maverick Zones. Adjacent to Moore, Skyharbour is advancing several uranium properties within the Russell Lake project area with its joint venture partner and large strategic shareholder Denison Mines. Collectively these projects host multiple zones of high-grade uranium mineralization across a highly prospective land package with significant exploration upside, and the Company is actively working these assets through exploration and drilling programs.

Skyharbour now has joint ventures with industry-leaders Denison Mines and Orano Canada Inc. at the Russell Lake properties and the Preston project, respectively. The Company also has several active earn-in option partners, including CSE-listed Nexus Uranium Corp. at the Mann Lake Uranium Project; TSX-V listed North Shore Uranium at the Falcon Project; UraEx Resources at the South Dufferin and Bolt Projects; Hatchet Uranium at the Highway Project; CSE-listed Mustang Energy at the 914W Project; and TSX-V listed Terra Clean Energy at the South Falcon East Project. In aggregate, Skyharbour has now signed earn-in option agreements with partners that total to potentially over $76 million in partner-funded exploration expenditures and over $42 million in cash and share payments coming into Skyharbour, assuming that these partner companies complete the earn-ins at their respective projects.

Skyharbour’s goal is to maximize shareholder value through new mineral discoveries, committed long-term partnerships, and the advancement of exploration projects in geopolitically favourable jurisdictions.

Skyharbour’s Uranium Project Map in the Athabasca Basin:
https://www.skyharbourltd.com/_resources/images/SKY_SaskProject_Locator_2025-12-16.jpg

To find out more about Skyharbour Resources Ltd. (TSX-V: SYH) visit the Company’s website at www.skyharbourltd.com.

Skyharbour Resources Ltd.

‘Jordan Trimble’

Jordan Trimble
President and CEO

For further information contact myself or:

Nicholas Coltura
Corporate Communications Manager
Skyharbour Resources Ltd.
Telephone: 604-558-5847
Toll Free: 800-567-8181
Facsimile: 604-687-3119
Email: info@skyharbourltd.com

NEITHER THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THE CONTENT OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

Forward-Looking Information:

This news release contains ‘forward‐looking information or statements’ within the meaning of applicable securities laws, which may include, without limitation, completing ongoing and planned work on its projects including drilling and the expected timing of such work programs, other statements relating to the technical, financial and business prospects of the Company, its projects and other matters. All statements in this news release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which the Company will operate in the future, including the price of uranium, the ability to achieve its goals, that general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner, that financing will be available if and when needed and on reasonable terms. Such forward-looking information reflects the Company’s views with respect to future events and is subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including the risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of exploration results, risks related to the inherent uncertainty of exploration and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses, and those filed under the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, continued availability of capital and financing and general economic, market or business conditions, adverse weather or climate conditions, failure to obtain or maintain all necessary government permits, approvals and authorizations, failure to obtain or maintain community acceptance (including First Nations), decrease in the price of uranium and other metals, increase in costs, litigation, and failure of counterparties to perform their contractual obligations. The Company does not undertake to update forward‐looking statements or forward‐looking information, except as required by law.

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The vanadium market remained subdued in H1 2025, weighed down by persistent oversupply and weak usage from the steelmaking sector, even as new demand avenues like energy storage gained attention.

Price data shows that vanadium pentoxide in major regions such as the US, China and Europe traded in roughly the US$9,300 to US$13,000 per metric ton range in Q1 and Q2, with no dramatic price spikes. Modest support was provided by demand for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) and stricter Chinese rebar standards.

Producers reported ongoing pressure on prices and profitability, with oversupply from China and Russia continuing to temper upward momentum and buyers delaying purchases amid resilient feedstock availability.

At the same time, vanadium’s role in long‑duration energy storage, particularly VRFBs, emerged as a potential growth driver as the year progressed, hinting at deeper structural demand beyond traditional industrial uses.

“The expected growth in vanadium demand from VRFBs as an energy storage solution at the grid-level represents a bright future for increased consumption,” a July CRU report reads. “However, the present reality is vanadium consumption is still dominated by use as a ferroalloy (ferrovanadium and vanadium nitride).”

Vanadium market to see structural change?

As 2025 progressed, the vanadium market continue to grapple with weakness as steel production demand struggled to absorb available supply and the broader metals complex remained in the doldrums.

Vanadium pentoxide prices stayed under pressure in most regions, with figures from the second quarter showing US prices near US$9,584, and Chinese prices around US$8,655, reflecting tepid buying activity and ongoing oversupply, even as emerging applications such as VRFBs sustained pockets of interest.

As mentioned, a key factor has been sluggish steel sector demand. Globally, crude steel production has weakened, particularly in China — historically the largest vanadium consumer — slowing vanadium’s traditional core market as rebar and structural steel consumption softened amid broader economic headwinds.

Although new Chinese rebar standards introduced earlier in 2025 mandate higher vanadium intensity in steel, anticipated increases in consumption have only partially materialized, leaving producers competing for limited contracts and putting downward pressure on average ferrovanadium and vanadium pentoxide prices.

At the same time, market participants reported that producers were cutting output and tightening supply in response to persistent low pricing. Several companies in China and the west curtailed production or deferred capital projects, indicating that margins were strained and cost discipline was becoming an industry imperative.

Global vanadium production has been declining since 2021, when the US Geological Survey reported total global output of 105,000 metric tons; that’s compared to 2024’s 100,000 metric tons.

Emerging vanadium demand from energy storage

Despite headwinds, structural changes in vanadium demand were evident in H2 2025.

VRFBs continued to gain momentum as more utility‑scale projects were announced and commissioned. The technology’s appeal lies in its scalability, long cycle life and safety profile compared to conventional lithium‑ion systems; installations in China, Japan and North America point to a slowly growing pipeline of demand outside steel.

Industry analysts have noted that vanadium demand from VRFBs could nearly triple by 2040 as long‑duration storage becomes a more integral part of renewable power grids, even if these applications currently represent a small fraction of total consumption. In China alone, installations of large‑scale VRFB systems were projected to consume tens of thousands of metric tons of vanadium pentoxide equivalent in 2025, offsetting some weakness in steel alloying use.

This bifurcation — weak traditional demand versus nascent battery demand — typified H2, producing a market where prices remained subdued, but underlying interest in new applications suggested a shift in fundamentals.

All eyes on Australia’s vanadium potential

Although US Geological Survey data shows Australia doesn’t currently produce vanadium, the nation holds the largest recorded vanadium reserves at more than 8.5 million metric tons.

Looking to tap this potential, the country has focused its attention on the industrial metal.

In January 2025, Australian Vanadium (ASX:AVL,OTCPL:ATVVF) received environmental approval from Western Australia for the Gabanintha vanadium project. The approval, granted by Minister for Environment Reece Whitby under section 45 of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 (WA), cleared the way for construction and production.

Shortly afterwards, the company’s namesake Australian Vanadium project, located in Western Australia’s Murchison province, earned a green energy major project designation.

The Queensland government has also invested in expanding refinement and processing capacity. Last May, construction began at Queensland’s first resources common user facility at the Cleveland Bay Industrial Park in Townsville.

The facility is designed to support the development, extraction and production of critical minerals, enabling the creation of mineral samples at scale and serving as a testing hub for commercializing production processes.

The government has identified vanadium as the initial focus, highlighting its key role in renewable energy applications.

In November, Western Australia launched a AU$150 million vanadium battery energy storage system project, aiming to make the state a leader in renewable energy and energy storage.

The 50 megawatt/500 megawatt-hour flow battery will use locally sourced and processed vanadium, and is expected to be the largest of its kind in Australia, supporting advanced manufacturing and a domestic supply chain.

Growing energy storage demand meets tightening supply

Looking ahead, analysts forecast that vanadium dynamics will begin to tilt in favor of tighter supply and strengthened pricing, though the timing and pace remain contingent on several variables.

A combination of reduced output and rising consumption — particularly from VRFBs — is expected to push the market toward a deficit by late 2026, encouraging a gradual recovery in vanadium prices.

Central to that shift is the energy transition. Demand for vanadium in long‑duration energy storage is projected to rise sharply as utilities and grid operators seek cost‑effective solutions to buffer renewables and stabilize electricity systems.

The vanadium market’s long‑term promise is underpinned by projections that VRFB deployment could grow at double‑digit rates, even as the bulk of demand remains tied to steel alloying.

On the supply side, a cautionary mood among producers — reflected in delayed project developments and tighter output discipline — may limit new material flowing onto the market in 2026.

With prices remaining below historical averages, many potential expansions are unbankable in the current price environment, meaning that new supply additions are likely to be limited absent a sustained price uptick.

“Vanadium market prices are likely to rise from late 2026, supported by tightening supply and growing demand from VRFBs. With weak prices in 2024 and 2025, driven by sluggish steel demand, vanadium producers have curbed output,” a CRU report published this past December notes.

Analysts at CRU project a late-year rebound, but caution that demand could triple by 2040 far outpacing production.

“Meanwhile VRFB demand is accelerating, evidenced by robust vanadium electrolyte project pipeline,” the firm’s report continues. “Rising demand will quickly run into depressed production, where prices will need to increase to support higher utilisation rates in mid-to late 2026.”

Securities Disclosure: I, Georgia Williams, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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Steve Penny, founder of SilverChartist.com, shares his thoughts on silver’s price breakout and next move, as well as the gold, platinum, uranium and oil markets.

‘In 1979, silver went up 700 percent, 8X in 12 months. I think that moment still lies ahead,’ he said.

Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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Viking Mines Ltd (ASX: VKA) (“Viking” or “the Company”) is pleased to announce that it has completed a strategic acquisition of a comprehensive historical technical dataset covering the Linka Project in Nevada, USA. The dataset was purchased for US$35,000 (~A$50,000) and contains extensive records that is estimated to cost in excess of A$1.0 million to replicate at current market rates.

  • Historical dataset acquired representing ~2,816m of historical drilling for a nominal amount of its replacement value.
  • Data includes records for 68 drillholes (8 Diamond and 60 Percussion) across the Linka, Hillside, and Conquest targets.
  • The acquisition provides a major technical shortcut, potentially saving months of field work and significant exploration capital.
  • Extensive historical mapping and cross sections identify high-grade targets and underground workings, enabling rapid 3D geological modelling.
  • The information supports the immediate planning of validation drilling aimed at bringing historical data up to JORC standards.

The acquired data includes high-quality scans of cross-sections and maps from the late 1970s. This information is critical for understanding the location of high-grade zones of the Linka tungsten system without the need to ‘re-discover’ known mineralisation.

Commenting on the historical data acquisition, Viking Mines MD & CEO Julian Woodcock said:

“Sourcing this extensive dataset substantially shortcuts the time required to advance the Linka Project, reduces the capital outlay required and reduces the exploration risk.

“We are extremely fortunate to have been able to source this information and have commenced with converting the information into digital format to bring into 3D geological modelling software.

“Upon completion of the airborne survey at the Project we will have the necessary ground features to accurately georeference the historical maps and sections to allow us to extract the drillhole collar information and build a drillhole database.

“I look forward to interrogating the data and releasing to market as we complete the digitisation process.”

Click here for the full ASX Release

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As calls grow to modernize America’s aging retirement system, Franklin Templeton is positioning blockchain as the key to the next evolution of asset management infrastructure.

In a recent survey of 52 leading retirement industry entities, the global investment firm found near-universal agreement that modernization is urgent. This discovery underscores structural inefficiencies across the US retirement landscape, from legacy administration and fragmented data systems to outdated product delivery models.

In a summary statement accompanying the results of the report, Crossley maintained that “the next phase of modernization won’t just digitize existing systems — it will redefine them.”

US retirement system at inflection point

The executives interviewed, who are responsible for roughly US$18 trillion in assets, described legacy infrastructure as fragmented, inefficient and ill-suited to modern employment patterns and participant expectations.

“We expected (a) debate about the pace of change or which innovations to prioritize. Instead, we heard near-universal agreement that … incremental improvements won’t be enough,’ he continued.

“One participant told us the legacy infrastructure needs to be burned down and built up from scratch. When industry leaders … are that candid about structural deficiencies, it signals we’ve reached a genuine inflection point.”

Crossley explained that there are three forces driving urgency:

  • Traditional safety nets are eroding as Social Security faces funding pressure and defined benefit pensions fall. The expert told INN that defined benefit pensions have shrunk from 68 percent of retirement assets in the mid-1970s to around 28 percent today.
  • Job tenure has shortened dramatically, with Gen Z averaging less than three years per role versus nearly a decade for older cohorts, breaking systems built around long-term work at a single entity.
  • Neobrokers and fintech platforms are increasing the competitive pressure on established companies, attracting younger investors and entering the retirement product market.

How blockchain solves for operational efficiency

While blockchain adoption in retail investment remains gradual, enterprise-level integrations have advanced steadily in recent years. Franklin Templeton itself has issued tokenized money market funds and piloted on-chain share registries.

“Intraday yield enables proportional calculation and distribution of yield, down to the second, when a tokenized security is transferred from one party to another — only made possible by blockchain innovation.”

The firm’s latest research suggests that the same efficiencies could underpin large-scale retirement solutions.

“The core problem in the industry is fragmentation,” Crossley said.

“Retirement data sits in silos across record keepers, plan sponsors, asset managers and benefits administrators, all running separate ledgers that require constant reconciliation,’ he continued, noting that blockchain provides a solution by creating a single shared record that every authorized participant can access simultaneously.

“Beyond that, tokenization allows us to embed rules directly into assets,” Crossley added. “A participant’s 401(k) contribution, their benefits elections (and) their employer match formula can all become programmable contracts that execute automatically. That’s not something a conventional database upgrade can replicate.”

Crossley pointed out that the bulk of retirement administration remains mired in costly, duplicative processes that fail to add value, with record keepers spending about US$12 billion a year servicing plans.

“Blockchain collapses that into a single shared record. When a contribution post or a benefits claim (is processed), every authorized party sees identical data simultaneously,’ he emphasized.

“Smart contracts take it further by automating routine administration. A participant’s contribution rate, investment election and match formula can be encoded into a self-executing contract. The blockchain monitors incoming payroll data and triggers the appropriate actions without manual intervention.”

From account to wallet

As regulatory frameworks mature and data security protocols strengthen, institutional players appear more willing to explore blockchain-based modernization at a broader scale.

If Franklin Templeton’s vision takes hold, the shift from “account to wallet” could mark one of the biggest operational revolutions in retirement management since the 401(k) was introduced nearly half a century ago.

“A wallet-based model consolidates that view. Your retirement contributions, benefits elections and employer match terms become tokens held in a single digital wallet that you control and carry with you across jobs.’

He noted that custodians and asset managers would have to rethink delivery.

‘Instead of being product manufacturers pushing funds into accounts, they become service providers operating within a networked ecosystem where the participant’s wallet is the central hub,’ Crossley said.

Barriers, challenges and regulatory engagement

Despite the promise, Crossley acknowledged that implementation roadblocks still lay ahead.

“Culture may be the steepest climb. The retirement industry has been conditioned by litigation risk to avoid anything nonstandard. Fiduciaries default to the cheapest, most common options because doing something different invites lawsuits. That mindset has to shift before any technology gains traction,’ he said.

“On the technical side, many record keepers still operate on mainframe systems built decades ago. Extracting and standardizing that data for migration is a massive undertaking,’ Crossley continued. In his view, regulatory clarity would be helpful in speeding up adoption, but internal barriers are hindering established franchies.

Franklin Templeton actively engages with regulators worldwide through sandboxes, hearings and white papers to align blockchain innovations with fiduciary standards while fostering investor protection and market growth.

“Our goal is to help build a regulatory environment where new technologies can thrive safely and transparently, unlocking the benefits of blockchain for institutions and individuals alike,’ he said.

‘By working together, we’re not just advancing our own capabilities; we’re helping to set the standard for a more open, resilient and trustworthy financial ecosystem,’ Crossley added. “We believe that the best regulatory frameworks don’t just safeguard investors; they also create the conditions for growth, experimentation and broader participation.”

The future of retirement systems

Crossley envisions a future where tokenized retirement systems operate seamlessly behind the scenes.

“Imagine a system where your retirement plan follows you across every job without paperwork, where your benefits selections automatically adjust when your circumstances change and where an AI-powered assistant actively optimizes your contributions, benefits usage and purchasing power in real time,’ he said.

“Tokenization makes that possible because it transforms static account records into programmable assets. Your 401(k) allocation, your HSA and your employer match formula all become smart contracts that execute automatically based on your preferences and life events. The end state is a retirement system that works continuously in the background rather than something you revisit once a year during open enrollment.”

Franklin Templeton sees gradual progress leading to meaningful adoption within three to five years.

He also noted that some forward-leaning providers are already testing wallet-based delivery for select participant groups. For example, Fidelity Investments offers Bitcoin exposure in 401(k)s via its digital assets account with up to 20 percent allocation and risk controls, while JPMorgan Chase’s (NYSE:JPM) Kinexys supports tokenized fund shares for automated rebalancing and collateral on permissioned networks. US provider ForUsAll enables up to 5 percent crypto self-directed windows via Coinbase Institutional in its Alt401(k) plans for small businesses.

“The question isn’t whether this shift happens,” said Crossley. ‘But whether incumbent players lead it or find themselves responding to competitors who moved first.”

Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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The US is among the world’s top silver producers, recording output of 1,100 metric tons in 2024.

While that’s far below first-place Mexico’s production of 6,300 metric tons of silver, the US is still a major producer of the precious metal, and is likely to remain a key source moving forward. However, few mines in the US are primary silver producers — much of the silver in the country is produced as a by-product of gold mining, and it can also be found with metals like copper and zinc.

So where exactly is silver produced in the US, and which companies are mining it? Alaska is the leading silver-producing state, followed by Nevada and Idaho. America’s three largest primary silver mines by production are the Greens Creek mine in Idaho, the Rochester mine in Nevada and the Lucky Friday mine in Alaska.

Read on for an overview of the three largest US silver producers by market cap.

Data for the stocks listed was current as of January 15, 2026.

1. Hecla Mining Company (NYSE:HL)

Market cap: US$16.91 billion

Hecla Mining operates the Greens Creek and Lucky Friday silver mines in Alaska and Idaho. Greens Creek is the United State’s largest silver mine. In addition to being a major silver miner in the US, Hecla also has mines in Canada, with the Keno Hill silver operation in the Yukon Territory and Casa Berardi gold-silver mine in Québec. Additionally, Hecla has a variety of exploration projects across North America.

In its 2024 results, Hecla reported silver reserves of 240 million ounces, silver production of 16.2 million ounces and a record US$929.9 million in total sales. The majority of Hecla’s 2024 silver production was derived from its Greens Creek and Lucky Friday mines, which produced 8.48 and 4.89 million ounces respectively.

Hecla’s 2025 production guidance stands at 16.2 million to 17 million ounces, with the vast majority expected to come from its US operations. In Q3 2025, the company produced 4.59 million ounces of silver, and 13.22 million ounces through the first nine months of the year.

‘Our third quarter results represent a defining moment for Hecla, with record-breaking performance across a number of key financial metrics,’ Rob Krcmarov, Hecla’s president and CEO, said in its Q3 results. ‘Greens Creek continues to exceed expectations, Keno Hill has delivered three consecutive quarters of profitability under our ownership, Lucky Friday maintained consistent production while advancing the surface cooling project, and Casa Berardi’s cost trajectory is improving.’

2. Coeur Mining (NYSE:CDE)

Market cap: US$13.58 billion

Coeur Mining describes itself as a growing precious metals producer with four producing mines in the Americas. Its major silver-producing operation in the US is the Rochester silver-gold mine in Nevada. Its other US mines are the Kensington gold mine in Alaska and Wharf gold mine in South Dakota, with Wharf also producing silver as a by-product.

In Mexico, Couer owns the Palmarejo silver-gold complex in Chihuahua and the Las Chispas silver-gold mine in Sonora. Coeur added Las Chispas to its portfolio when it acquired SilverCrest in early 2025. Coeur is also advancing work at its Silvertip silver-zinc-lead project in British Columbia, Canada.

For 2024, Rochester’s silver production totaled 4.38 million ounces, falling slightly shy of its 2024 guidance of 4.8 million to 6.6 million ounces, while Coeur’s full silver production across its operations totaled 11.4 million ounces.

As of Q3 2025, Coeur’s 2025 silver production guidance stood at 18.1 million ounces, with Rochester expected to produce 6 million to 6.7 million ounces of silver. In the first nine months of the year, Coeur produced 13.2 million ounces of silver across its operations, with Rochester accounting for 4.38 million ounces.

“Coeur delivered another quarter of record financial results, driven by higher prices, balanced contributions from all five of our North American gold and silver operations along with overall strong cost control,” President and CEO Mitchell J. Krebs said in the release. “Las Chispas experienced a particularly strong quarter, with the team continuing to exceed expectations in just its second full quarter of operations with the Company.”

3. Americas Gold and Silver (NYSEAMERICAN:USAS)

Market cap: C$1.69 billion

Americas Gold and Silver is mining for silver in the US and Mexico. The company has two producing assets: the Galena Complex in Idaho, which produces silver, copper and antimony, and the Cosalá operation in Mexico. It also owns the Relief Canyon mine in Nevada, currently on care and maintenance, and the newly acquired, past-producing Crescent silver mine, located 9 miles from Galena in Idaho.

In December 2024, the company consolidated full ownership of Galena when it acquired the outstanding 40 percent interest from an affiliate of Eric Sprott and Paul Andre Huet. As part of the deal, Sprott acquired a significant interest in the company, and Huet was appointed its CEO and Chairman. Americas stated that its benefits from 100 percent ownership in the property include streamlined decision making and a focused vision for Galena.

The company has been working on expansion efforts at Galena since early 2024. In its 2024 results, Americas Gold and Silver reported attributable silver production from Galena of approximately 1.5 million ounces compared to 1.6 million ounces the previous year.

In September 2025, Americas completed the first upgrade on Galena’s No 3 shaft ahead of schedule, improving productivity. In its Q3 results, the company reported 2025 year-to-date production of 1.9 million ounces of silver.

In December, the company completed the acquisition of the past-producing Crescent silver mine near Galena. The historic resource at the site demonstrates mineralization similar to that at Galena, with the potential to add 1.4 million to 1.6 million ounces of silver annually.

In an operational update in January 2026, the company said development of Crescent was progressing rapidly and it was aiming for a mid-2026 restart of operations.

“This rapid execution is an excellent start to our plan to establish best-in-class operations at Crescent. We’re poised to unlock multiple synergies with our neighbouring Galena Complex from procurement savings and equipment sharing to G&A efficiencies and spare processing capacity,’ Chairman and CEO Huet stated.

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, currently hold a small investment in Hecla Mining, but do not hold investments in any other company mentioned in this article.

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Bitcoin is prone to price volatility, with wide swings to the upside and downside, making it difficult for investors to know when is the right time to buy the top crypto.

An emerging industry-friendly US regulatory environment, US Federal Reserve interest rate decisions, and rising institutional demand helped the Bitcoin price to soar to new heights in 2025, as investors and other industry insiders speculate on how the Trump administration’s policies could further grow the sector and encourage mainstream adoption.

Trump ran on a platform that promised to make the US the Bitcoin capital of the world, vowing to establish a national reserve for the asset, and several states have already introduced legislation to create similar reserves within their borders.

The promise of a lower interest rate environment with changing Fed monetary policy has also fueled demand for non-interest-bearing assets like Bitcoin.

The price of Bitcoin pulled back to under US$100,000 in February 2025 and fell as low as US$75,000 by April 9, marking a strong buying opportunity for crypto investors. Bitcoin rebounded in May, breaking past the US$100,000 level and surging further over the summer to more than US$120,000 per BTC. That upward momentum stayed in play through October 6 when Bitcoin set a new all-time high price of US$126,198.07 per BTC.

However, the price of the cryptocurrency declined steadily through the rest of October and November on a pervading risk-off sentiment deepening in the market alongside rising expectations of interest rate hikes on the part of central banks such as Japan.

Despite the inherent volatility in the market, institutions and retail investors have continued to buy Bitcoin by the millions, and spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) remain popular.

Yet there were bearish signals hitting the wires in late 2025 that might impact how Bitcoin performs in the year ahead.

For example, index provider MSCI was considering delisting companies whose business model is to buy and hold crypto due to their similarity to investment funds, which are typically not included in its indexes.

According to Reuters, Michael Saylor’s Strategy (NASDAQ:MSTR), a big buyer of digital coin and a significant influencer in the sector, was in discussions with MSCI over the latter company possibly removing Strategy from major stock indexes. JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:JPM) said if other index providers take the same tack, this could pull US$8.8 billion out of the crypto market.

While MSCI announced it was delaying the plan in January, the index company noted it wouldn’t include newly issued shares of such companies and was reviewing its options.

As you can see, buying Bitcoin isn’t a simple decision. Read on to learn the basics of Bitcoin fundamentals, price forecasts and methods for determining if now’s the right time to buy Bitcoin, including several popular technical trading indicators you should know.

In this article

    What gives Bitcoin its value? 5 factors to know

    Before you decide if Bitcoin is a good investment for you, you need to understand Bitcoin and the wider crypto market.

    Bitcoin was the world’s first cryptocurrency, created in January 2009 by the mysterious Satoshi Nakamoto.

    Conceived as a virtual alternative to fiat currency, Bitcoin is built atop blockchain technology, which it uses for both validation and security. Blockchain itself is a distributed digital ledger of transactions, operating through a combination of private keys, public keys and network consensus.

    The best analogy to explain how this works in practice involves Google Docs. Imagine a document that’s shared with a group of collaborators. Everyone has access to the same document, and each collaborator can see the edits other collaborators have made. If anyone makes an edit that the other collaborators don’t approve of, they can roll it back.

    Going back to Bitcoin, the virtual currency primarily validates transactions through proof of work. Also known as Bitcoin mining, this competitive and incredibly resource-intensive process is the means by which new Bitcoins are generated.

    How it works is deceptively simple. Each Bitcoin transaction adds a new ‘block’ to the ledger, identified by a 64-digit encrypted hexadecimal number known as a hash. Each block uses the block immediately preceding it to generate its hash, creating a ledger that theoretically cannot be tampered with. Bitcoin miners collectively attempt to guess the encrypted hex code for each new block — whoever correctly identifies the hash then validates the transaction and receives a small amount of Bitcoins as a reward.

    From an investment perspective, Bitcoin toes the line between being a medium of exchange and a speculative digital asset. It also lacks any central governing body to regulate its distribution. As one might expect, these factors together make Bitcoin quite volatile, and therefore somewhat risky as an investment target.

    As for the source of this volatility, Bitcoin’s value is primarily influenced by five factors.

    1. Supply and demand

    It’s widely known that no more than 21 million Bitcoins can be produced, and that’s unlikely to happen before 2140.

    Only a certain number of Bitcoins are released each year, and this rate is reduced every four years by halving the reward for Bitcoin mining. The last of these ‘halvings’ occurred in April 2024 and the next one is due sometime in 2028. When it happens, there may be a significant increase in Bitcoin demand, largely driven by media coverage and investor interest.

    Bitcoin demand is also strengthening in countries experiencing currency devaluation and high inflation.

    It would be remiss not to mention that Bitcoin represents an ideal mechanism for supporting illicit activities — meaning that increasing cybercrime could itself be a demand driver.

    2. Production costs

    It’s said that Bitcoin benefits from minimal production costs. This isn’t exactly true, however. Solving even a single hash requires immense processing power, and it’s believed that crypto mining collectively uses more electricity than some small countries. It’s also believed that miners were largely responsible for the chip shortage experienced throughout the pandemic due to buying and burning out vast quantities of graphics cards.

    These costs together have only a minimal influence on Bitcoin’s overall value. The complexity of Bitcoin’s hashing algorithms and the fact that they can vary wildly in complexity are far more impactful.

    3. Competition

    Bitcoin’s cryptocurrency market share has sharply declined over the years. In 2017, it maintained a market share of over 80 percent. Bitcoin’s current market share is just under 59 percent.

    Despite that fall, Bitcoin remains the dominant force in the cryptocurrency market and is the marker by which many other cryptocurrencies determine their value. However, there is no guarantee that this will always remain the case. There are now scores of Bitcoin alternatives, known collectively as altcoins, which you can learn more about here.

    The most significant alternative to Bitcoin is Ethereum. Currently accounting for roughly 12 percent of the crypto market, Ethereum has long maintained its position as the second largest cryptocurrency. Some experts have suggested that Ethereum may even overtake Bitcoin, but others don’t see that as a possibility in the near future.

    4. Regulations

    Bitcoin may itself be unregulated, but it is not immune to the effects of government legislation. For instance, China’s 2021 ban of the cryptocurrency caused a sharp price drop, though it quickly rallied in the following months. The European Union has also attempted to ban Bitcoin in the past, and Nic Carter, a partner at Castle Venture, accused the US of trying to do the same in February 2023.

    There has been plenty of discussion surrounding the role of the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in regulating Bitcoin and other crypto as investment assets. The US made progress in establishing crypto legislation in 2024 when the House passed the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century (FIT21) Act in a bipartisan 279 to 136 vote on May 22 of last year.

    While that act has yet to make further progress, the new Trump administration has already loosened some crypto regulation with regards to crypto reporting for banks and decentralized finance businesses.

    In April 2025, the SEC approved rule changes allowing Ether ETF options, and also updated its guidance on crypto company disclosures.

    Around the same time, President Trump signed a resolution repealing the Internal Revenue Services’ (IRS) controversial DeFi broker rule. Enacted at the end of the Biden Administration, the rule expanded the definition of “broker” to include decentralized finance, or DeFi, platforms. The reversal passed both chambers of Congress with bipartisan support.

    In July, Trump signed the GENIUS Act into law, which establishes a regulatory framework for payment in stablecoins. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent has stated that the law paves the way for a potential stablecoin market worth US$3.7 trillion by 2030.

    As with many growth markets, it’s two steps forward, one step back, and cryptocurrency is no exception. In early December, the SEC halted the approval process of a number of ETFs over concerns they exceed the regulatory limits on allowable leverage and pose too great a risk to investors. This effectively blocked the rollout of new ETF products from nine issuers, including Direxion, ProShares and Tidal.

    5. Public interest and media coverage

    As with any speculative commodity, Bitcoin is greatly influenced by the court of public opinion.

    Perhaps the best example of this occurred in 2021. At that time, a tweet from Tesla’s (NASDAQ:TSLA) Elon Musk caused Bitcoin’s price to drop by 30 percent in a single day. This also wiped about US$365 billion off the cryptocurrency market.

    Another example occurred on January 9, 2024, leading up to the deadline for eight spot Bitcoin ETFs by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). In a since-deleted post on X, formerly known as Twitter, a hacker falsely stated that the SEC had approved all eight pending Bitcoin ETFs. This caused the price of Bitcoin to spike to US$48,000, but it quickly dropped back down to around US$46,000 after the SEC confirmed it was a hack, leading some analysts to consider it a ‘sell-the-news’ event.

    Is now a good time to buy Bitcoin?

    The current US administration is crypto friendly, and Bitcoin and altcoins saw support in 2025. Could they go even higher, or should you wait for a dip to buy? Bitcoin is notoriously volatile, which can make it difficult to judge where the crypto is going next, but there are several strategies to help investors decide when to invest.

    To determine if it is a good time to invest in Bitcoin, investors should pay attention to the market and listen to the experts, as generally speaking, Bitcoin’s price action is sentiment-driven. To keep on top of big news in the sector, follow our frequent Crypto Market Updates, which drop several times a week.

    There are also different technical indicators that crypto traders use to help them decide if now is the time to buy or sell Bitcoin. We run through some popular indicators below.

    For example, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is a technical indicator used to gauge the momentum of a cryptocurrency’s price. It fluctuates on a scale from 0 to 100. By analyzing the magnitude of recent price changes relative to the previous 12-month period, the RSI helps traders identify whether a cryptocurrency is potentially overbought or oversold. An RSI above 70 often signals an overbought market, while an RSI below 30 suggests an oversold market.

    Another metric to consider is the MVRV Z-score, calculated by subtracting the ‘realized’ value of Bitcoin, which is an average of the prices at which each Bitcoin was last moved, from the current market value. This is then divided by the standard deviation of the Bitcoin market cap.

    This indicator helps identify when market value deviates strongly from realized value, which could show the market is at a turning point. A score above 7 likely indicates that Bitcoin is overvalued, meaning it could be due for a correction, while a score below 0 suggests that Bitcoin is undervalued, meaning it could be a good buying opportunity.

    Finally, to gauge the overall market sentiment, investors can look at the Fear & Greed Index. This index provides a snapshot of how optimistic or fearful the market is about Bitcoin, with high readings potentially signaling overenthusiasm and a possible correction.

    While it’s useful to learn these technical indicators to help you trade, it is important to remember that there’s no such thing as a guaranteed investment, especially when it comes to cryptocurrencies. On the one hand, there’s virtually no chance that Bitcoin will experience a crash to zero. On the other hand, we also cannot take for granted that its value will continue to climb.

    What is Bitcoin’s long-term price outlook?

    For those considering Bitcoin as a long-term investment, it’s worth considering experts’ thoughts on Bitcoin in the future.

    JP Morgan forecasted in November that Bitcoin will reach US$170,000 in the next six to 12 months. The estimate is based on the bank’s volatility-adjusted model comparing Bitcoin to gold.

    With a focus on long-term growth rather than short-term volatility, in December Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse predicted Bitcoin will reach US$180,000 by the end of 2026.

    Not everyone is so optimistic about Bitcoin’s prospects. Top economist Henrik Zeberg has expressed concerns about Bitcoin’s future in the context of continued economic uncertainty, as its price remains highly linked with the performance of the tech-stock heavy NASDAQ.

    Billionaire investor Warren Buffet, meanwhile, has not minced words regarding his opinion on Bitcoin and its future. According to Buffet, Bitcoin is an unproductive asset with no unique value. He also feels that it doesn’t count as a true currency — in fact, he called it “rat poison.” Moreover, he believes that the crypto market as a whole will end badly.

    Who holds the most Bitcoin?

    Regardless of whether you believe Bitcoin’s proponents or naysayers, it’s clear that it has some incredibly prominent backers in both the investment world and the wider business landscape.

    Business analytics platform Strategy (NASDAQ:MSTR) is by far the largest public company in the Bitcoin space, with 709,715 Bitcoin to its name as of January 21, 2026. The next two public companies with the largest Bitcoin holdings are Marathon Digital Holdings (NASDAQ:MARA) with 52,850 Bitcoin, and Twenty One Capital (NASDAQ:XXI) with 37,229.7 Bitcoin.

    The US, China and the United Kingdom hold the top three spots for countries with the most Bitcoin holdings, with 198,012, 194,000 and 61,245 Bitcoin respectively at that time.

    There are also plenty of individuals with large holdings, the most significant of which is believed to be Bitcoin’s creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Other prominent names include Michael Saylor, Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, and Tim Draper.

    How to smartly invest in Bitcoin?

    To help increase the odds of crypto being a good investment, investors in the Bitcoin market should learn the basics of safely investing in Bitcoin.

    How to buy Bitcoin

    The good news is that investing in Bitcoin is actually quite simple. If you’re purchasing through a stockbroker, it’s a similar process to buying shares of a company. Otherwise, you may need to gather your personal information and bank account details. It’s recommended to secure your network with a VPN prior to performing any Bitcoin transactions.

    The first step in purchasing Bitcoin is to join an exchange. Coinbase Global (NASDAQ:COIN) is one of the most popular, but there’s also Kraken and Bybit. If you’re an advanced trader outside the US, you might consider Bitfinex.

    Once you’ve chosen an exchange, you’ll need a crypto wallet. Many first-time investors choose a software-based or ‘hot’ wallet either maintained by their chosen crypto exchange or operated by a service provider. While simpler to set up and more convenient overall, hot wallets tend to be less secure as they can be compromised by data breaches.

    Another option is a ‘cold’ wallet — a specialized piece of hardware specifically designed to store cryptocurrency. It’s basically a purpose-built flash drive. If you plan to invest large amounts in crypto, a cold wallet is the better option.

    Once you’ve acquired and configured your wallet, you may choose to connect either the wallet or your crypto exchange account to your bank account. This is not strictly necessary, and some seasoned investors don’t bother to do this.

    Finally, with your wallet fully configured and your exchange account set up, it’s time to place your order.

    Best practices for investing in Bitcoin

    The most important thing to remember about Bitcoin is that it is a high-risk asset. Treat Bitcoin as a means of slowly growing your existing wealth rather than an all-or-nothing gamble, and never invest money that you aren’t willing to lose.

    As with other investments, it’s important to hedge your portfolio. Alongside Bitcoin, you may want to consider investing in other cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, or perhaps an altcoin. You may also want to explore other blockchain-based investments, given that even the most stable cryptocurrencies tend to be fairly volatile.

    It’s also key to ignore the hype surrounding cryptocurrencies. Recall how many people whipped themselves into a frenzy over non-fungible tokens in 2022. The majority of NFTs created during that time are now worthless.

    Make decisions based on your own market research and advice from trusted — and more importantly, certified — professionals. If you’re putting up investment capital based on an influencer’s tweets, you are playing with fire.

    You should also start small. A good rule of thumb is not to dedicate more than 10 percent of your overall capital to cryptocurrency. Even that number could be high — again, it’s all about moderation.

    Make sure to prioritize cybersecurity as well. Cryptocurrencies are an immensely popular target for cybercriminals. In addition to maintaining a cold wallet, make sure you practice proper security hygiene. That means using a VPN and a password manager while also exercising mindfulness in how you browse the web and what you download.

    Finally, make an effort to understand what cryptocurrencies are and how they work. One of the reasons Sam Bankman-Fried was able to run FTX as long as he did was because many of his investors didn’t fully understand what they were putting their money into. Don’t let yourself be fooled by buzzwords or lofty promises about Web3 and the metaverse.

    Do your research into the technology behind it all. That way, you’ll be far better equipped to recognize when something is a sound investment versus a bottomless money pit.

    Indirect crypto investing

    Given Bitcoin’s volatility, it’s understandable that you might be leery of making a direct investment. The good news is that you don’t have to. You can indirectly invest into the crypto space through mutual funds, stocks and ETFs.

    ETFs are a popular and flexible portfolio choice that allows investors to benefit from a sector’s performance without the need to directly own individual stocks or assets. They are an especially appealing option in the cryptocurrency market as the technical aspects of purchasing and holding these coins can be confusing and intimidating for the less technologically inclined.

    Bitcoin futures ETFs provide exposure to the cryptocurrency’s price moves using Bitcoin futures contracts, which stipulate that two parties will exchange a specific amount of Bitcoins for a particular price on a predetermined date.

    Conversely, spot Bitcoin ETFs aim to track the price of Bitcoin, and they do so by holding the asset. Spot Bitcoin ETFs have been offered to Canadians since 2021, and there are now 13 Canadian cryptocurrency ETFs you can buy. Spot Bitcoin ETFs began trading in the US on January 11, 2024. For investors interested in blockchain technology, there are also several blockchain ETFs.

    Do a bit of research and touch base with your stockbroker or financial advisor before you go in this direction.

    Investor takeaway

    Bitcoin is a fascinating asset. Simultaneously a transactional tool and a speculative commodity, it’s attracted the attention of investors almost since it first hit the market. Unfortunately, it’s also incredibly volatile.

    For that reason, while current market conditions are favorable for anyone considering buying Bitcoin, it is an asset you should purchase only at your own risk. Because while Bitcoin may have the potential for significant returns, you may also lose most of your investment. If that knowledge doesn’t bother you, then by all means, purchase away.

    Otherwise, there are better — less volatile — options for your capital.

    FAQs for buying Bitcoin

    What does Cathie Wood say about Bitcoin?

    ARK Invest CEO Cathie Wood is extremely bullish on Bitcoin, telling Bloomberg in February 2023 that her firm believes the cryptocurrency could reach a value of US$1 million by 2030. In July 2025, Wood hiked her 2030 bitcoin price prediction with a bull case high of US$3.8 million. In the 2026 Big Ideas report issued in January, she predicted a US$16 trillion market cap for Bitcoin by 2030, implying a price of about US$761,900, the Block reports.

    Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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    NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES

    Rua Gold Inc. (‘RUA’ or the ‘Company’) (TSXV: RUA,OTC:NZAUF) (OTCQB: NZAUF) is pleased to announce a brokered and non-brokered financing for up to $25 million to advance exploration and development activities at the Company’s Reefton Project and Glamorgan Project, both located in New Zealand.

    Brokered Offering

    The Company is pleased to announce that it has entered into an agreement with Raymond James Ltd., as joint bookrunner and co-lead agent, alongside Cormark Securities Inc., as joint bookrunner and co-lead agent, on behalf of a syndicate of agents (collectively, the ‘Agents’), in connection with a brokered private placement offering (the ‘Brokered Offering’) of 18,190,000 common shares of the Company (the ‘Common Shares’) at a price of $1.10 per Common Share for aggregate gross proceeds to the Company of up to $20,009,000.

    The Company has agreed to grant the Agents an option (the ‘Agents’ Option’), exercisable, in part or in whole at the Agents’ sole discretion, up to 48 hours prior to the closing of the Offering, to offer for sale up to an additional 15% of the Common Shares comprising the Brokered Offering at the Offering Price.

    The net proceeds of the Brokered Offering will be used for exploration and development activities on the Company’s Reefton Project and Glamorgan Project, both located in New Zealand, and for working capital and general corporate purposes.

    The Common Shares issued under the Brokered Offering will be issued and sold to eligible purchasers pursuant to the ‘listed issuer financing exemption’ under Part 5A of National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 – Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (the ‘LIFE Exemption’), will be issued to purchasers in each of the provinces of Canada, except Québec, and other qualifying jurisdictions, including the United States on a private placement basis pursuant to available exemptions from the registration requirements under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the ‘U.S. Securities Act’). The Common Shares to be issued and sold under the Brokered Offering will not be subject to resale restrictions pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws.

    In connection with the Brokered Offering, the Company will: (i) pay the Agents a cash fee equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds from the sale of such Common Shares, including any Common Shares sold pursuant to the Agents’ Option, except that such fee will be reduced to 1.0% in respect of proceeds received from subscribers included on a president’s list (the ‘President’s List’) to be formed by the Company; (ii) issue to the Agents that number of compensation warrants (each a ‘Compensation Warrant’) equal to 6.0% of the Common Shares sold in the Brokered Offering, including the Agents’ Option, each entitling the holder thereof to acquire a Common Share at an exercise price $1.10 per Common Share for a period of 24 months following completion of the Brokered Offering, except that the number of Compensation Warrants issued to the Agents shall be reduced to 1.0% in respect of Common Shares sold to subscribers included on the President’s List.

    There is an offering document related to the Brokered Offering that can be accessed under the Company’s issuer profile at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at www.ruagold.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision concerning the Common Shares.

    The Brokered Offering is expected to close on or about January 28, 2026 and is subject to certain closing conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals including the conditional listing approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (‘TSXV’) and the applicable securities regulatory authorities. The Brokered Offering is subject to final acceptance of the TSXV.

    Non-Brokered Financing

    Concurrently with the Brokered Offering, the Company will conduct a non-brokered private placement to raise up to $5 million (the ‘Non-Brokered Offering’).

    The Non-Brokered Offering will consist of up to 4,550,000 Common Shares at a price of $1.10 per Common Share. Common Shares issued under the Non-Brokered Offering will be subject to resale restrictions pursuant to applicable Canadian securities laws of four months and one date from the closing date of the Non-Brokered Offering.

    The net proceeds from the Non-Brokered Offering will be used for exploration and development activities on the Company’s Reefton Project and Glamorgan Project, both located in New Zealand, and for working capital and general corporate purposes.

    The Non-Brokered Offering is expected to close on or about January 28, 2026 is subject to certain closing conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary approvals including the conditional listing approval of the TSXV and the applicable securities regulatory authorities.

    The securities issuable in connection with the Brokered Offering and the Non-Brokered Offering have not been registered and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any State in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    About Rua Gold Inc.

    Rua Gold Inc. is an exploration company, strategically focused on New Zealand. With decades of expertise, their team has successfully taken major discoveries into producing world-class mines across multiple continents. The team is focused on maximizing the asset potential of Rua Gold’s two highly prospective high-grade gold projects. The Company controls the Reefton Gold District as the dominant landholder in the Reefton Goldfield on New Zealand’s South Island with over 120,000 hectares of tenements, in a district that historically produced over 2Moz of gold grading between 9 and 50g/t. The Company’s Glamorgan Project solidifies Rua Gold’s position as a leading high-grade gold explorer on New Zealand’s North Island. This highly prospective project is located within the North Islands’ Hauraki district, a region that has produced an impressive 15Moz of gold and 60Moz of silver. Glamorgan is adjacent to OceanaGold Corporation’s biggest gold mining project, Wharekirauponga.

    Robert Eckford
    Chief Executive Officer
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
    Robert Eckford
    Phone: (604) 655-7354
    Email: reckford@ruagold.com

    Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Forward-Looking Information

    This news release includes certain statements that may be deemed ‘forward-looking statements’. All statements in this new release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words ‘expects’, ‘plans’, ‘anticipates’, ‘believes’, ‘intends’, ‘estimates’, ‘projects’, ‘potential’ and similar expressions, or that events or conditions ‘will’, ‘would’, ‘may’, ‘could’ or ‘should’ occur and specifically include statements regarding: closing of the Brokered Offering and Non-Brokered Offering, including receipt of approvals therefor, the Company’s strategies, expectations, planned operations or future actions, including but not limited to exploration programs at its Reefton and Glamorgan projects and the results thereof. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements.

    Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. A variety of inherent risks, uncertainties and factors, many of which are beyond the Company’s control, affect the operations, performance and results of the Company and its business, and could cause actual events or results to differ materially from estimated or anticipated events or results expressed or implied by forward looking statements. Some of these risks, uncertainties and factors include: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; risks related to the effects of the Russia-Ukraine war; risks related to climate change; operational risks in exploration, delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration projects or capital expenditures; the actual results of current exploration activities; conclusions of economic evaluations; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; changes in labour costs and other costs and expenses or equipment or processes to operate as anticipated, accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry, including but not limited to environmental hazards, flooding or unfavorable operating conditions and losses, insurrection or war, delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing, and commodity prices.

    Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company’s management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management’s beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change. 

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    Apollo Silver Corp. (‘Apollo Silver’ or the ‘Company’) (TSX.V:APGO, OTCQB:APGOF, Frankfurt:6ZF0) is pleased to announce that it has closed the first tranche of its previously announced upsized non-brokered private placement (the ‘Offering’) and has issued an aggregate of 3,000,000 units (the ‘Units’) at a price of $5.00 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of $15,000,000.

    As previously announced, Eric Sprott, one of Apollo Silver’s largest shareholders, participated in the first tranche and subscribed for 2,500,000 Units, for gross proceeds of $12,500,000. The first tranche also included participation from Apollo Silver insiders, including certain directors and officers of the Company.

    Eric Sprott, through 2176423 Ontario Ltd., a corporation beneficially owned by him, acquired 2,500,000 Units pursuant to the first tranche of the Offering for total consideration of $12,500,000. Prior to the Offering, Mr. Sprott beneficially owned and controlled 3,688,889 Shares and 1,388,889 Warrants, representing approximately 6.5% of the outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis and 8.7% of the outstanding Shares on a partially-diluted basis assuming exercise of such Warrants.

    As a result of closing the first tranche of the Offering, Mr. Sprott now beneficially owns and controls 6,188,889 Shares and 3,888,889 Warrants, representing approximately 10.3% of the outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis and 15.8% of the outstanding Shares on a partially-diluted basis assuming exercise of such Warrants. The securities are held for investment purposes.

    Mr. Sprott has a long-term view of the investment and may acquire additional securities including on the open market or through private acquisitions or sell the securities including on the open market or through private dispositions in the future depending on market conditions, reformulation of plans and/or other relevant factors.

    A copy of the early warning report with respect to the foregoing will appear on Apollo Silver’s profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and may also be obtained by calling Mr. Sprott’s office at (416) 945-3294 (2176423 Ontario Ltd., 7 King Street East, Suite 1106, Toronto Ontario M5C 3C5).

    The first tranche of the Offering included participation by certain insiders of the Company for an aggregate of 471,000 Units totaling gross proceeds of $2,355,000. Such participation constitutes a ‘related party transaction’ under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (‘MI 61-101’). The issuance of securities to insiders is exempt from the valuation requirement pursuant to section 5.5(b) of MI 61-101, as the Company’s shares are not listed on a specified market, and from the minority shareholder approval requirement pursuant to section 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, as the fair market value of the securities issued to related parties does not exceed twenty five percent of the Company’s market capitalization.

    A fund managed by Jupiter Asset Management has subscribed for Units under the Offering, which are expected to be issued in a subsequent and final tranche upon receipt of, and subject to, the completion of additional regulatory submissions and acceptance by the TSX Venture Exchange (‘TSXV’). The first tranche of the Offering remains subject to final approval of the TSXV.

    ‘The participation of a key shareholder and Apollo Silver insiders reflects strong alignment around the strategic value of primary silver assets in tightening silver markets,’ said Ross McElroy, President and CEO of Apollo Silver. ‘This financing further reinforces our positioning as a silver-focused company advancing large-scale assets in stable jurisdictions.’  

    Each Unit issued pursuant to the Offering consists of one common share (a ‘Share’) in the capital of the Company and one common Share purchase warrant (a ‘Warrant’). Each Warrant entitles the holder thereof to purchase one Share at an exercise price of $7.00 for a period of 24 months from the closing date of the Offering.

    In connection with subscriptions received in the first tranche of the Offering, the Company paid aggregate finder’s fees totaling $312,500, consisting of 62,500 Units issued to Research Capital Corporation on the same terms as the Units issued under the Offering, except that the Warrants comprising such Units are non-transferable.

    The securities issued under the first tranche of the Offering are subject to a four-month hold period from the date of closing. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering to continue advancing the Calico Silver Project in San Bernardino, California; support community relations initiatives at the Cinco de Mayo Silver Project in Chihuahua, Mexico; cover ongoing property maintenance costs at both projects; and for general corporate purposes. The Offering remains subject to the final acceptance of the TSXV.

    The Shares have not been, and will not be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the ‘U.S. Securities Act’), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States without registration under the U.S. Securities Act and all applicable state securities laws or compliance with the requirements of an applicable exemption therefrom. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

    About Apollo Silver Corp.

    Apollo Silver is advancing one of the largest undeveloped primary silver projects in the US. The Calico project hosts a large, bulk minable silver deposit with significant barite and zinc credits – recognized as critical minerals essential to the US energy and medical sectors. The Company also holds an option on the Cinco de Mayo Project in Chihuahua, Mexico, which is host to a major carbonate replacement (CRD) deposit that is both high-grade and large tonnage. Led by an experienced and award-winning management team, Apollo Silver is well positioned to advance the assets and deliver value through exploration and development.

    Please visit www.apollosilver.com for further information.

    ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

    Ross McElroy
    President and CEO

    For further information, please contact:

    Email: info@apollosilver.com

    Telephone: +1 (604) 428-6128

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    Cautionary Statement Regarding ‘Forward-Looking’ Information

    This news release includes ‘forward-looking statements’ and ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included in this news release, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements including, without limitation, statements with respect to the expected timing and receipt of final approval of the first tranche of the Offering, the expected timing and receipt of final approval of the subsequent and final tranche of the Offering, and the intended use of proceeds from the Offering. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as ‘anticipate’, ‘believe’, ‘plan’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘potential’, ‘target’, ‘budget’ and ‘intend’ and statements that an event or result ‘may’, ‘will’, ‘should’, ‘could’ or ‘might’ occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof.

    Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis, and opinions of the management of the Company made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that management of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made. Forward-looking information is based on reasonable assumptions that have been made by the Company as at the date of such information and is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may have caused actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: risks associated with mineral exploration and development; metal and mineral prices; availability of capital; accuracy of the Company’s projections and estimates; realization of mineral resource estimates, interest and exchange rates; competition; stock price fluctuations; availability of drilling equipment and access; actual results of current exploration activities; government regulation; political or economic developments; environmental risks; insurance risks; capital expenditures; operating or technical difficulties in connection with development activities; personnel relations; and changes in Project parameters as plans continue to be refined. Forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable, including but not limited to the price of silver, gold and barite; the demand for silver, gold and barite; the ability to carry on exploration and development activities; the timely receipt of any required approvals; the ability to obtain qualified personnel, equipment and services in a timely and cost-efficient manner; the ability to operate in a safe, efficient and effective matter; and the regulatory framework regarding environmental matters, and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and actual results, and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward looking information contained herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. The forward-looking information contained herein is presented for the purpose of assisting investors in understanding the Company’s expected financial and operational performance and the Company’s plans and objectives and may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws.

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    Forge Resources Corp. (CSE: FRG) (OTCQB: FRGGF) (FSE: 5YZ) (‘Forge‘ or the ‘Company‘) is pleased to provide an operational update from its fully permitted flagship La Estrella coal project, located in Santander, Colombia. Underground development activities continue to advance steadily, supported by a fully deployed operational team and ongoing progress in the main underground ramp as the Company enters 2026.

    During recent development of the underground project, the Company has re-encountered a coal seam at the development face of the underground ramp showing at 1.1 metres in width (Photo 1). The company first encountered this coal seam in July 2025, and these events were previously reported in News Releases dated July 24, 2025 and August 13, 2025. This exposure further confirms the continuity and geological potential of the La Estrella coal system. No additional assays are planned at this stage, as the seam encountered corresponds to previously identified and characterized coal horizons for which laboratory analysis has already been completed.

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    Photo 1. Coal seam exposed at the development face of the underground ramp

    To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
    https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8680/280917_6214fd4584c2d8cc_001full.jpg

    In parallel with ongoing development, Forge has started implementing additional enhancement measures in collaboration with Grupo A and Webber Mining & Tunneling to further support safety and long-term performance of the underground ramp. These initiatives involve the use of resin injection and self-drilling bolts to strengthen and reinforce the main access tunnel, which represents a key piece of infrastructure and the primary gateway to the underground workings over the life of the project (Photo 2). This approach reflects the Company’s focus on building durable, high-quality underground infrastructure designed to support safe operations and sustained project development over the long term. This technique complements the primary support system of the underground ramp, which consists of TH25 and TH29 steel arches, timber lagging, and electro-welded mesh, further enhancing overall structural integrity and long-term performance.

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    Photo 2. Resin injection at the underground development face

    To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
    https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8680/280917_6214fd4584c2d8cc_002full.jpg

    PJ Murphy, CEO of Forge Resources Corp., commented: ‘Underground development at La Estrella continues to progress steadily, and the re-encounter of a coal seam at the underground ramp face further strengthens our confidence in the coal deposit and the continuity of the coal system at the project. As we advance, we are proactively enhancing the main access tunnel to support safety, durability, and long-term performance. The underground ramp is a critical asset over the life of the project, and our focus remains on building high-quality underground infrastructure that supports sustained development and responsible operations.’

    Coal Market Surge Aligned with Strategic Positioning of La Estrella

    Driven by increased demand, coal prices have experienced a notable resurgence as we enter 2026.The domestic consumption in the United States has spiked by 7-8% over the past year, to record levels. At the same time, China is commissioning dozens of new coal-fired plants to ensure energy security amidst surging industrial electricity needs, while India’s continuous infrastructure expansion keeps global coal demand at record-breaking levels near 8.8 billion tonnes. The price increases are due to these factors combined with tight inventories and robust power-sector demand.

    Global coal markets have demonstrated continued resilience, supported by steady demand for both metallurgical and thermal coal. Metallurgical coal prices have shown improvement in recent months, reflecting ongoing steel production, infrastructure investment, and disciplined supply in key producing regions. This has reinforced confidence in the medium-term fundamentals of the metallurgical coal market.

    Thermal coal prices have also remained stable, with signs of gradual improvement in several markets driven by energy security considerations, seasonal demand, and the ongoing role of coal in ensuring reliable baseload power. While regional dynamics vary, thermal coal continues to play an important role in global energy systems, particularly in emerging and industrial economies.

    Overall, these market conditions support sustained interest in high-quality coal projects with existing permits, established infrastructure, and development momentum. Projects such as La Estrella, which benefit from multiple metallurgical and thermal coal seams and near-term operational progress, remain well positioned within the current coal market environment.

    Metallurgical and thermal coal futures have currently a blended FOB price per metric tonne of USD $177 (CAD $246 / metric tonne), with metallurgical coal prices surging from September 2025 and thermal coal being steadier at USD $120 / metric tonne to USD $95 / metric tonne.

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    Figure 1. Metallurgical coal price (USD), per metric tonne- Source: https://tradingeconomics.com/

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    Figure 2. Blended average price (USD), per metric tonne (metallurgical and thermal coal) – Source: https://tradingeconomics.com/

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    About Forge Resources Corp.

    Forge Resources Corp. is a Canadian-listed junior exploration company. The Company holds an 80% in Aion Mining Corp., a company that is developing the fully permitted La Estrella coal project in Santander, Colombia. La Estrella contains eight known seams of metallurgical and thermal coal. The Company also holds an option on the Alotta project, a prospective porphyry copper-gold-molybdenum project consisting of 230 mineral claims that cover 4,723 hectares, located 50 km south-east of the Casino porphyry deposit in the unglaciated portion of the Dawson Range porphyry/epithermal belt in the Yukon Territory of Canada.

    On behalf of the Board of Directors
    ‘PJ Murphy’, CEO Forge Resources Corp.
    info@forgeresources.com

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, information concerning the Aion Acquisition. Forward-looking information is based on the views, opinions, intentions and estimates of management at the date the information is made, and is based on a number of assumptions and subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated or projected in the forward-looking information (including the actions of other parties who have agreed to do certain things and the approval of certain regulatory bodies). Many of these assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within the control of the Company and there is no assurance they will prove to be correct. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. In particular, there can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed as described or at all. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws, or to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of the Company, its financial or operating results or its securities. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. We seek safe harbor.

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