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Syntholene Energy Corp. (TSXV: ESAF) (formerly, GK Resources Ltd.) (the ‘Company‘ or ‘Syntholene‘) is pleased to announce that, further to its news releases dated May 6, 2025, May 16, 2025, July 9, 2025, September 18, 2025, November 18, 2025 and December 3, 2025, it has completed the acquisition of Syntholene Energy Corp., a private Delaware corporation (‘Pre-Transaction Syntholene‘), pursuant to the amended and restated securities exchange agreement entered into between the Company, Pre-Transaction Syntholene and the securityholders of Pre-Transaction Syntholene on April 25, 2025, as amended from time to time (the ‘Securities Exchange Agreement‘), which resulted in the reverse takeover of the Company by Pre-Transaction Syntholene (the ‘Transaction‘) pursuant to the policies of the TSXV Venture Exchange (the ‘TSXV‘).

Final acceptance by the TSXV of the Transaction will occur upon issuance of the final bulletin in respect of the Transaction by the TSXV (the ‘Final Bulletin‘) which is expected on or about December 10, 2025. Subject to issuance of the Final Bulletin, trading on a post-Consolidation (as defined below) basis will commence on the TSXV under the Company’s new name ‘Syntholene Energy Corp.’ and new trading symbol ‘ESAF’ on or about December 12, 2025.

‘This milestone is important and impactful for Syntholene and the broader eFuels sector. Being the first publicly traded pure-play synthetic fuel company on any exchange worldwide sets up Syntholene to build value with shareholders from day one of this new era for high-performance, low-cost, and carbon-negative eFuels.’ said Dan Sutton, Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

Syntholene is actively commercializing a new production pathway for low-cost clean fuel synthesis. The target output is ultrapure synthetic jet fuel, manufactured at 70% lower cost than the nearest competing technology. The Company’s mission is to deliver the world’s first truly high-performance, low-cost, and carbon-neutral synthetic fuel at an industrial scale.

Syntholene’s power-to-liquid strategy harnesses thermal energy to power proprietary integrations of hydrogen production and fuel synthesis. Syntholene has secured 20MW of dedicated energy to support the Company’s upcoming demonstration facility and commercial scale-up.

Founded by experienced operators across advanced energy infrastructure, nuclear technology, low-emissions steel refining, process engineering, and capital markets, Syntholene’s mission is to be the first team to deliver a scalable modular production platform for cost-competitive synthetic fuel, thus accelerating the commercialization of carbon-neutral eFuels across global markets.

As part of and in connection with the Transaction:

  • The Company changed its name to ‘Syntholene Energy Corp.’ and consolidated the common shares of the Company (the ‘Shares‘) on the basis of five pre-consolidation common shares for one post-consolidation common share (the ‘Consolidation‘). No fractional Shares were issued as a result of the Consolidation. Fractional Shares equal to or greater than one-half (1/2) were rounded up to the nearest whole number. Fractional Shares equal to less than one-half (1/2) were cancelled without any repayment of capital or other compensation. The new CUSIP number for the post-Consolidation Common Shares is 87170K106 and the new ISIN is CA87170K1066.
  • Pursuant to the Securities Exchange Agreement, the Company acquired all of the securities of Pre-Transaction Syntholene, whereby Pre-Transaction Syntholene became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and the securityholders of Pre-Transaction Syntholene received securities of the Company in exchange for their securities of Pre-Transaction Syntholene at an exchange ratio of 5.934 post-Consolidation Shares for each Pre-Transaction Syntholene share (subject to adjustments in accordance with the Securities Exchange Agreement) (the ‘Securities Exchange‘).

Pursuant to the Securities Exchange:

  • the Company issued a total of 53,511,804 post-Consolidation Shares at a deemed price of $0.375 per share and 890,100 Share purchase warrants (‘Warrants‘), with each Warrant exercisable to acquire one post-Consolidation Share at a price of $0.001685 until June 18, 2026;
  • up to 10,750,000 post-Consolidation Shares (the ‘Deferred Consideration Shares‘) are issuable to former shareholders of Pre-Transaction Syntholene upon the completion of certain business milestones in accordance with the Securities Exchange Agreement; and
  • the Company assumed a convertible note in the principal amount of $180,000 with a maturity date of March 30, 2027 and bearing simple interest at a rate of 12.5% per annum, which is convertible into post-Consolidation Shares at a price of $0.30 per share.
  • Pursuant to the amalgamation agreement dated November 18, 2025 (the ‘Amalgamation Agreement‘) among the Company, a special purpose financing vehicle of Syntholene (‘FinCo‘) and a wholly owned subsidiary of GK (‘SubCo‘), the Company acquired all of the securities of Finco by means of a ‘three-cornered amalgamation’, whereby SubCo and Finco amalgamated and continued as a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and the securityholders of Finco received securities of the Company in exchange for their securities of Finco at an exchange ratio of one post-Consolidation Share for every five FinCo common shares (subject to adjustments in accordance with the Amalgamation Agreement) (the ‘Amalgamation‘).
  • Pursuant to the Amalgamation, the Company issued a total of 9,303,700 post-Consolidation Shares at a deemed price of $0.375 per share to the former shareholders of FinCo.

In connection with the Amalgamation, the Company issued 83,333 post-Consolidation Shares, representing a corporate finance fee, to Canaccord Genuity Corp. and issued an aggregate of 151,886 non-transferable broker Warrants, with each Warrant exercisable to acquire one post-Consolidation Share at a price of $0.375 until December 9, 2027.

  • The Company issued 350,000 post-Consolidation Shares to an arm’s length finder in respect of the Transaction at a deemed price of $0.375 per share.
  • The Company granted an aggregate of 6,195,700 stock options of the Company (‘Options‘), 1,500,000 performance share units of the Company (‘PSUs‘) which are tied to achievement of certain listing milestones described in the Securities Exchange Agreement, and 5,025,000 restricted share units of the Company (‘RSUs‘), all on a post-Consolidation basis, to certain directors, officers and consultants of the Company (collectively, the ‘Grants‘), subject to vesting conditions set out in the terms of the Grants and subject to disinterested shareholder approval of the Grants and of the Company’s new omnibus equity incentive plan.
  • The Company entered into an escrow agreement with Odyssey Trust Company and certain directors and officers of the Company providing for the escrow of an aggregate of 35,604,000 Shares, 110,000 Options, 500,000 PSUs, 600,000 RSUs and up to 7,160,265 Deferred Consideration Shares, all on a post-Consolidation basis, to be released on a Tier 2 escrow release schedule in accordance with TSXV policies.
  • An aggregate of 11,868,000 post-Consolidation Shares issued as part of the Securities Exchange will be subject to Seed Share Resale Restrictions (as defined in the TSXV policies), with 20% released on each of the date of the Final Bulletin and the dates that are 3, 6, 9 and 12 months thereafter.

Immediately following the closing of the Transaction, there are approximately 68,949,286 post-Consolidation Shares issued and outstanding.

As part of the Consolidation, shareholders holding physical certificates are required to exchange their existing share certificates for new certificates in accordance with the instructions of the letters of transmittal which will be mailed to them. Other shareholders are not required to take any action with respect to the name change or the Consolidation.

Following the closing of the Transaction (‘Closing‘), the Board of Directors of the Company comprises Daniel Sutton, Alexander Canon Bryan, John Kutsch, Anna Pagliaro and Steve Oldham.

Management of the Company comprises Daniel Sutton (Chief Executive Officer), Grant Tanaka (Chief Financial Officer), Alexander Canon Bryan (Chief Development Officer), John Kutsch (Chief Engineer) and Jennifer Hanson (Corporate Secretary).

The full particulars of the Transaction and the Company are described in the filing statement of the Company dated November 30, 2025 in respect of the Transaction (the ‘Filing Statement‘), which contains the information required pursuant to listing statement requirements under the policies of the TSXV. A copy of the Filing Statement is available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under the Company’s issuer profile.

Acquisitions by Daniel Sutton, Alexander Canon Bryan and John Kutsch

As part of and in connection with the Transaction, certain shareholders acquired post-Consolidation Shares pursuant to the Share Exchange and Amalgamation resulting in each of them acquiring more than 10% of the voting securities of the Company, as follows:

  1. Daniel Sutton of Vancouver, British Columbia (‘Sutton‘) acquired 11,868,000 Shares and 375,000 PSUs pursuant to the Securities Exchange, 933,500 Options pursuant to the Grants and may be issued up to 2,386,755 Deferred Consideration Shares;
  2. Alexander Canon Bryan of Vancouver, British Columbia (‘Bryan‘) acquired 11,868,000 Shares and 125,000 PSUs pursuant to the Securities Exchange, and 543,400 Options pursuant to the Grants and may be issued up to 2,386,755 Deferred Consideration Shares; and
  3. John Kutsch of Harvard, Illinois (‘Kutsch‘) acquired 11,868,000 Shares pursuant to the Securities Exchange, 3,715,467 Shares pursuant to the Amalgamation, 100,000 RSUs and 543,400 Options pursuant to the Grants and may be issued up to 2,386,755 Deferred Consideration Shares.

The Shares issued to Sutton, Bryan and Kutsch pursuant to the Share Exchange have a deemed issue price of $0.375 per post-Consolidation Share and an aggregate value of $445,000 for each of them; these Shares were issued in exchange for the Pre-Transaction Syntholene Shares held by each of them. In the case of Kutsch, the Shares he was issued pursuant to the Amalgamation also have a deemed issue price of $0.375 per post-Consolidation Share and an aggregate value of $1,393,000 and were issued in exchange for FinCo common shares that were acquired for cash paid by Kutsch in the same amount. The Grants were made to these individuals in recognition of their services to Pre-Transaction Syntholene and to the Company, and in the case of the PSUs pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement. The Options are non-transferrable and have an exercise price of $0.375 per post-Consolidation Share each and are exercisable for three years.

Immediately prior to Closing, each of Sutton, Bryan and Kutsch did not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, any securities of the Company.

Immediately following the Closing, all on a post-Consolidation basis:

  1. Sutton beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 11,868,000 Shares, 933,500 Options and 375,000 PSUs, representing approximately 17.21% of the issued and outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis and, assuming the settlement of the 375,000 PSUs into Shares, exercise of the 933,500 Options into Shares and issuance of all 2,386,755 Deferred Consideration Shares (and settlement of all other PSUs and issuance of all other Deferred Consideration Shares issuable pursuant to the Securities Exchange Agreement), approximately 18.95% of the issued and outstanding Shares on a partially diluted basis;
  2. Bryan beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 11,868,000 Shares, 543,400 Options and 125,000 PSUs, representing approximately 17.21% of the issued and outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis and, assuming the settlement of the 125,000 PSUs into Shares, exercise of the 543,000 Options into Shares and issuance of all 2,386,755 Deferred Consideration Shares (and settlement of all other PSUs and issuance of all other Deferred Consideration Shares issuable pursuant to the Securities Exchange Agreement), approximately 18.2% of the issued and outstanding Shares on a partially diluted basis; and
  3. Kutsch beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 15,583,467 Shares, 543,400 Options and 100,000 RSUs, representing approximately 22.6% of the issued and outstanding Shares on a non-diluted basis and, assuming the settlement of the 100,000 RSUs into Shares, exercise of the 543,400 Options into Shares and issuance of all 2,386,755 Deferred Consideration Shares (and settlement of all other PSUs and issuance of all other Deferred Consideration Shares issuable pursuant to the Securities Exchange Agreement), approximately 22.77% of the issued and outstanding Shares on a partially diluted basis.

The securities of the Company held by each of Sutton, Byan and Kutsch are held for investment purposes and were acquired pursuant to the terms of the Share Exchange Agreement and Amalgamation Agreement. Each of Sutton, Byan and Kutsch has a long-term view of the investment and may acquire additional securities of the Company either on the open market, through private acquisitions or as compensation or sell the securities on the open market or through private dispositions in the future depending on market conditions, general economic and industry conditions, the Company’s business and financial condition, reformulation of plans and/or other relevant factors. Certain securities held by Sutton, Bryan and Kutsch are subject to Tier 2 escrow in accordance with TSXV policies as described in the Filing Statement.

A copy of each of Sutton, Bryan and Kutsch’s early warning report will be filed on the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and may also be requested by mail at Syntholene Energy Corp. Suite 1723, 595 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V7X 1J1, Attention: Corporate Secretary or phone at 604-684-6730.

The Shares and PSU issued, as applicable, and the Deferred Consideration Shares issuable, to Sutton, Bryan and Kutsch are not subject to minority approval or valuation requirements under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (‘MI 61-101‘) as each of them were arm’s length parties to the Company prior to completion of the Share Exchange and Amalgamation. The following Grants were made on Closing of the Transaction to certain directors and officers of the Company: (i) Sutton was issued 933,500 Options, (ii) Bryan was issued 543,400 Options, (iii) Kutsch was issued 100,000 RSUs subject to Tier 2 TSXV escrow and 543,400 Options, (iv) Grant Tanaka was issued 300,000 RSUs subject to Tier 2 TSXV escrow, (v) Anna Pagliaro was issued 100,000 RSUs subject to Tier 2 TSXV escrow, (vi) Steve Oldham was issued 50,000 Options, and (vii) Jen Hanson was issued 100,000 RSUs subject to Tier 2 TSXV escrow (collectively, the ‘Related Party Grants‘). The Related Party Grants are exempt from the valuation requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to paragraph 5.5(b) as the Company is not listed on a specified market. The Related Party Grants are exempt from the minority approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to paragraph 5.7(1)(a) and the fair market value of each of the Related Party Grants is not more than 25% of the market capitalization of the Company and the time of grant. The Related Party Grants remain subject to disinterested shareholder approval under TSXV policies, and shall not vest or be exercisable until such approval is obtained.

Investor Relations and Market-Making Services

Pre-Transaction Syntholene entered into an investor relations agreement dated August 28, 2025 (the ‘Kin Agreement‘) with Kin Communications Inc. (‘Kin‘), a full-service investor relations agency specializing in the junior mining exploration and development sector (Suite 100 – 736 Granville Street, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1G3). Pre-Transaction Syntholene engaged Kin to provide investor relations services until August 28, 2026 (the ‘Kin Initial Term‘), after which the Kin Agreement will continue on a month-to-month basis unless otherwise agreed by Pre-Transaction Syntholene and Kin. Pre-Transaction Syntholene will pay and grant to Kin (i) a monthly fee of $15,000, (ii) $500 for each day each employee of Kin attends a conference or event on behalf of Pre-Transaction Syntholene which falls on a weekend or holiday or which exceeds a total five business days per calendar quarter and (iii) 500,000 post-Consolidation Options at an exercise price of $0.375 per post-consolidation Share until December 9, 2028. The Kin Agreement may be terminated by Pre-Transaction Syntholene or Kin (i) for breach of the Kin Agreement and (ii) following the Kin Initial Term, by providing 30 days prior notice to the other party. Kin and its principal, John Arlen Hansen, beneficially own, directly or indirectly, an aggregate of 500,000 post-Consolidation Options. Kin is arm’s-length to the Company and is not engaged in market-making activities.

Pre-Transaction Syntholene entered into a client services agreement dated November 15, 2025 (the ‘SmallCap Agreement‘) with SmallCap Communications Inc. (‘SmallCap‘), a full-service investor marketing firm for public companies (306-310 Water Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 1B2). Pre-Transaction Syntholene engaged SmallCap to provide digital marketing services until the earlier of (i) November 15, 2026 and (ii) the date that the costs associated with the provision of services exceeds the compensation thereunder. Pre-Transaction Syntholene will pay to SmallCap an aggregate of $300,000, of which $150,000 is payable on each of (i) Closing and (ii) January 8, 2026. SmallCap and its principal, Rebecca Kerswell, do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, any securities of the Company. SmallCap is arm’s-length to the Company and is not engaged in market-making activities.

Pre-Transaction Syntholene entered into an investor relations agreement dated December 1, 2025 (the ‘Milestone Agreement‘) with Milestone Capital Partners (‘Milestone‘), a consultancy firm (IFZA Business Park, DDP, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai, United Arab Emirates). Pre-Transaction Syntholene engaged Milestone to provide marketing and other investor relations services. Pre-Transaction Syntholene will pay and grant to Milestone (i) a fee of €260,000 and (ii) 500,000 post-Consolidation Options at an exercise price of $0.375 per Post-Consolidation Share until December 9, 2028. The term of the Milestone Agreement is for 12 months and may be terminated by (i) Pre-Transaction Syntholene for breach of the Milestone Agreement and (ii) Pre-Transaction Syntholene or Milestone by providing 14 days prior notice to the other party. Milestone and its principal, Christian Klingebiel, beneficially own, directly or indirectly, an aggregate of 503,096 Shares and 500,000 Options, all on a post-Consolidation basis. Milestone is arm’s-length to the Company and is not engaged in market-making activities.

Pre-Transaction Syntholene entered into an issuer trading services agreement dated November 20, 2025 (the ‘GIACP Agreement‘) with Generation IACP Inc. (‘GIACP‘), pursuant to which GIACP will provide the Company with certain issuer trading services, including trading the Shares with the objective of contributing to market liquidity of the Shares and providing periodic reporting of the market trading activity of the Shares. The services will be provided on the TSXV or such other stock exchange in Canada as the Resulting Issuer Shares shall be traded on from time to time. GIACP will commit its own funds to purchase the Shares and may act as agent for others to do so. As consideration, Pre-Transaction Syntholene will pay to GIACP a monthly fee of $8,500 with such fee subject to a 3% increase on each anniversary of the GIACP Agreement. The initial term of the GIACP is until May 9, 2026, subject to automatic renewals for subsequent six-month terms. Pre-Transaction Syntholene may terminate the GIACP Agreement with 30 days written notice and GIACP may terminate the GIACP Agreement at any time with written notice.

GIACP and its principals do not beneficially own, directly or indirectly, any securities of the Company, and GIACP is an arm’s length party to the Company

The Company intends to continue the engagements with Kin, SmallCap, Milestone Capital and GIACP following Closing. Certain proceeds of the concurrent financing completed in connection with the Transaction will be used towards investor relations, marketing and communications expenses.

About Syntholene Energy Corp.

Syntholene is actively commercializing a new production pathway for low-cost clean fuel synthesis. The target output is ultrapure synthetic jet fuel, manufactured at 70% lower cost than the nearest competing technology. The Company’s mission is to deliver the world’s first truly high-performance, low-cost, and carbon-neutral synthetic fuel at an industrial scale.

Syntholene’s power-to-liquid strategy harnesses thermal energy to power proprietary integrations of hydrogen production and fuel synthesis. Syntholene has secured 20MW of dedicated energy to support the Company’s upcoming demonstration facility and commercial scale-up.

Founded by experienced operators across advanced energy infrastructure, nuclear technology, low-emissions steel refining, process engineering, and capital markets, Syntholene’s mission is to be the first team to deliver a scalable modular production platform for cost-competitive synthetic fuel, thus accelerating the commercialization of carbon-neutral eFuels across global markets.

Contact Information: For more information and to sign-up to the mailing list, please contact:

Dan Suttton
Chief Executive Officer
Tel: 604-684-6730
Email: comms@syntholene.com

Certain information set forth in this news release contains ‘forward‐looking statements’ and ‘forward‐looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and applicable United States securities laws (referred to herein as forward‐looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, certain information contained herein constitutes forward‐looking statements which includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the final acceptance of the Transaction by the TSXV and the intended use of the available funds.

Forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of words such as ‘may’, ‘will’, ‘could’, ‘would’, ‘anticipate’, ‘believe’, ‘expect’, ‘intend’, ‘potential’, ‘estimate’, ‘budget’, ‘scheduled’, ‘plans’, ‘planned’, ‘forecasts’, ‘goals’ and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this news release include without limitation statements regarding the Company’s plans for development of its business, plans for commercialization, plans for a facility, expected benefits of synthetic fuel, capitalization, performance of the Company and its products relative to competitors, investor relations and marketing, use of proceeds of the concurrent financing, and other statements. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of factors and assumptions made by management and considered reasonable at the time such information is provided. Assumptions and factors include without limitation: the integration of the Company and Pre-Transaction Syntholene following Closing, and realization of benefits therefrom; the Company’s ability to carry out the business plan of the resulting issuer, including but not limited to an effects-test and commercial scaleup targeting deployment in Q4 2025; market acceptance of the Company’s products; efficacy of the synthetic fuel; the use of available funds; and the Company’s ability to continue raising necessary capital to finance operations. Forward‐looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or result expressed or implied by such forward‐looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks related to the listing on the TSXV, including, but not limited to, the ability to obtain necessary approvals in respect of the listing; integration risks; risks relating to the operation of a public company; and general business, economic and competitive uncertainties. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended.

There can be no assurance that forward‐looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward‐looking statements if circumstances or management’s estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements contained herein are presented for the purposes of assisting investors in understanding the Company’s plans, objectives and goals, including with respect to the Transaction, and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward‐looking statements. Additional risks impacting the Company and its business are described in the Filing Statement and should be reviewed.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities in the United States. The securities 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 state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

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

Source

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First Class Metals PLC (‘First Class Metals’, ‘FCM’ or the ‘Company’) the UK listed company focused on the discovery of economic metal deposits across its exploration properties in Ontario, Canada, is pleased to announce that the drilling on the North Hemlo property, whilst currently paused, will recommence next week.

Highlights

  • Nine drillholes completed across the Dead Otter trend, marking strong progress in the Company’s maiden programme on this property.
  • Four priority target areas tested along the 3.5 km trend, providing early geological coverage across multiple prospective zones.
  • Approximately 200 core samples dispatched to the Thunder Bay laboratory for assay analysis.
  • Drilling to recommence next week to complete the planned programme
  • Several logged intersections exhibit visually encouraging geological features, consistent with the Company’s exploration model and supporting the decision to advance drilling. A video of a representative cut core section displaying multiple deformed structures, contact, clasts veining and sulphide mineralisation is available via the link below.

https://firstclassmetalsplc.com/link/yOO9ky

Marc J. Sale CEO First Class Metals commented:

‘To date, the maiden drill programme on the Dead Otter trend has been both technically and logistically successful, particularly given the inclement as well as challenging weather conditions. The Emerald Geological Services team has executed the plan efficiently, and early indications from the core are encouraging.

While assays will ultimately determine the significance of these intervals, the geological features observed to date reinforce our confidence in the Dead Otter trend as a compelling gold target within the North Hemlo Project. We look forward to receiving the first assay results in the New Year and to completing the balance of the programme before the Christmas break.’

Location & Strategic Context

The North Hemlo Project is situated within the world-class Hemlo Greenstone Belt, a district that has produced more than 23 million ounces of gold since discovery. In early December 2025, Barrick Gold Corporation completed the sale of its Hemlo Mine to Hemlo Mining Corporation (‘HMC‘) in a transaction valued at up to US$1.09 billion. That transaction signaled a renewed and focused investment into the Hemlo district and reflects continued interest in evaluating the region’s exploration potential. First Class Metals’ Dead Otter trend lies contiguous with HMC’s regional exploration holdings.

A map of a large area AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 1 showing the Dead Otter trend with locations of the initial 6 drillholes which are logged and sampled. Also shown are the VLF grids and positions of significant grab samples

NH 2025 DDH Collars

Hole_ID

Easting

Northing

Elevation

Az_deg

Dip_deg

NH-25-01

591566

5410975

366

10

-45

NH-25-02

591566

5410975

366

10

-70

NH-25-03

591542

5410973

367

10

-45

NH-25-04

591542

5410973

367

10

-70

NH-25-05

589167

5412220

416

25

-45

NH-25-06

589161

5412198

420

25

-45

The initial drillholes targeted the location of the previously reported 19.6 g/t high grade Au grab sample, as well as zones of pronounced structural deformation (‘messed up rocks’) delineated in mapping conducted by Professor Mary Louise Hill (Professor Emerita, Lakehead University). These areas represent key focal points of gold anomalism and structural complexity along the trend.

A person wearing gloves holding a pipe AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 2 showing a section of uncut core from the Dead Otter trend displaying sulphides which could indicate potential mineralisation.

Figure 3 showing cut core displaying quartz veining and course pyrite.

A second target area, including the site of the 2.3 g/t Au sample and the interpreted granite contact, has also been tested with two additional holes.

Emerald Geological Services (‘EGS‘) continue to oversee and manage all drill-site geological operations, including core logging, sampling, and photography at their Manitouwadge facility.

The drilling contract minimum of 700m drilling will be surpassed at the completion of the programme.

Given the seasonal volume of samples being processed across the region, combined with the Christmas-New Year period, assay turnaround times are difficult to estimate accurately at this stage.

Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance (‘ESG’)

FCM takes its ESG responsibilities seriously and this attitude is imparted to all contracted personnel. The Company is proud that Rugged Aviation, the drill contractor, as well as EGS, are taking this responsibility seriously to in ensuring that drill sites, as much as feasible are left in an environmentally responsible state.

Figure 4 showing drill holes 01 and 02, cleared before drilling and after drilling completed and the rig moved.

ENDS

Qualified Person

The technical disclosures contained in this announcement have been drafted in line with the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum standards and guidelines and approved by Marc J. Sale, who has more than 30 years in the gold exploration industry and is considered a Qualified person owing to his status as a Fellow of the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.

For Further Information:

Engage with us by asking questions, watching video summaries, and seeing what other shareholders have to say. Navigate to our Interactive Investor hub here: https://firstclassmetalsplc.com/link/yOO9ky

For further information, please contact:

James Knowles, Executive Chair
Email: JamesK@Firstclassmetalsplc.com
Tel: 07488 362641

Marc J Sale, CEO and Executive Director
Email: MarcS@Firstclassmetalsplc.com
Tel: 07711 093532

AlbR Capital Limited (Financial Adviser)
David Coffman/Dan Harris

Website: www.albrcapital.com
Tel: (0)20 7469 0930

Axis Capital Markets (Broker)
Lewis Jones

Website: Axcap247.com
Tel: (0)203 026 0449

First Class Metals PLC Background

First Class Metals listed on the LSE in July 2022 and is focused on metals exploration in Ontario, Canada which has a robust and thriving junior mineral exploration sector. In particular, the Hemlo ‘camp’ near Marathon, Ontario is a proven world class address for gold exploration, featuring the Hemlo gold deposit previously operated by Barrick Mining (>23M oz gold produced), with the past producing Geco and Winston Lake base metal deposits also situated in the region.

FCM currently holds 100% ownership of seven claim blocks covering over 250km² in north west Ontario. A further three blocks are under option and cover an additional 30km2.FCM is focussed on exploring for gold, but has base metals and critical metals mineralisation. FCM is maintaining a joint venture with GT Resources on the West Pickle Lake Property, a drill-proven ultra-high-grade Ni-Cu project.

The flagship properties, North Hemlo and Sunbeam, are gold focussed. North Hemlo has a significant discovery in the Dead Otter trend which is a discontinuous 3.5km gold anomalous trend with a 19.6g/t Au peak grab sample. This sampling being the highest known assay from a grab sample ever recorded on the North Limb of Hemlo.

In October 2022 FCM completed the option to purchase the historical high-grade past-producing Sunbeam gold mine near Atikokan, Ontario, ~15 km southeast of Agnico Eagle’s Hammond Reef gold deposit (3.3 Moz of open pit probable gold reserves).

FCM acquired the Zigzag Project near Armstrong, Ontario in March 2023. The property features Li-Ta-bearing pegmatites in the same belt as Green Technology Metals’ Seymour Lake Project, which contains a Mineral Resource estimate of 9.9 Mt @ 1.04% Li2O. Zigzag was successfully drilled prior to Christmas 2023.

The Kerrs Gold property, acquired under option by First Class Metals in April 2024, is located in northeastern Ontario within the Abitibi Greenstone Belt, one of the world’s most prolific gold-producing regions. The project holds a historical inferred resource of approximately 386,000 ounces of gold, underscoring its potential as a meaningful addition to FCM’s expanding gold portfolio. Kerrs Gold complements the Company’s exploration strategy and provides exposure to a well-established mining district. FCM is currently reviewing plans to advance the project and further unlock its value.

The significant potential of the properties for precious, base and battery metals relates to ‘nearology’, since all properties lie in the same districts as known deposits (Hemlo, Hammond Reef, Seymour Lake), and either contain known showings, geochemical or geophysical anomalies, or favourable structures along strike from known showings (e.g. the Esa project, with an inferred Hemlo-style shear along strike from known gold occurrences).

For further information see the Company’s presentation on the web site:

www.firstclassmetalsplc.com

Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements which are based on the Company’s expectations, intentions and projections regarding its future performance, anticipated events or trends and other matters that are not historical facts. Such forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate only to historical or current facts. Forward-looking statements sometimes use words such as ‘aim’, ‘anticipate’, ‘target’, ‘expect’, ‘estimate’, ‘intend’, ‘plan’, ‘goal’, ‘believe’, or other words of similar meaning. These statements are not guarantees of statements. Given these risks future performance and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking and uncertainties, prospective investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of such statements and, except as required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

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Commanding hundreds of billions of dollars in market capitalization globally, stablecoins have exploded around the world, with total market cap pushing past US$308 billion as of December 8, 2025.

Stablecoins now facilitate over US$4 trillion in annual transaction volume. Functioning as efficient digital cash on blockchain rails, they offer solutions for payments, remittances and decentralized finance (DeFi).

This amazing growth was largely fueled by the US passing the GENIUS Act in July 2025. Since then, Tether’s (USDT) market cap has grown by over 30 percent to more than US$185 billion. Meanwhile, its main competitor, Circle’s (NYSE:CRCL) USDC, has surged to surpass US$78 billion.

Enter QCAD, Canada’s pioneering regulated digital token, serviced by Stablecorp Digital Currencies. With backing from Coinbase Ventures, Circle Ventures, Side Door Ventures and DeFi Technologies, QCAD is positioning itself to bridge traditional finance and blockchain for Canadian institutions.

What is QCAD?

QCAD is a digital token pegged 1:1 to the Canadian dollar, with reserves held at regulated financial institutions under the QCAD Digital Trust.

Like other stablecoins, QCAD aims to bridge traditional financial institutions and modern blockchain networks by providing interoperable and secure digital rails. It offers institutional-grade infrastructure to facilitate transactions and digital asset operations.

The strategy proved prescient. When Canadian regulators finally approved stablecoin standards, QCAD’s architecture aligned almost perfectly with expectations.

The service’s primary users are fintech companies and exchanges. Qualified holders can access and use QCAD through a growing network of authorized channels, which include regulated crypto trading platforms (CTPs), fintech APIs and institutional custody providers.

QCAD’s architecture wasn’t built in isolation – Stablecorp deliberately populated its cap table with industry leaders to learn from their experiences and avoid repeating mistakes.

“We learn from (our partners) every day. We talk to them on an ongoing basis, and we try to learn from their strengths and learn from some of the challenges that they have. For example, the USDC from Circle…is a really good model reference test that I think is going to inform a lot of decisions that we make going forward.

“I don’t look at QCAD as a competitor to USDC,” he added. “It really is a complementary product. When you think of use cases like FX, you can take one USDC and exchange it for a corresponding amount of QCAD. You can do that with no friction, with much lower spreads than the big banks would charge and (with) immediate settlement.”

This interoperability is a use case that benefits both tokens rather than cannibalizing one.

QCAD’s regulatory journey

QCAD represents a major development in Canada’s digital money infrastructure, receiving full compliance in November 2025 from the CSA following years of regulatory collaboration.

To achieve this milestone, Stablecorp’s six-year infrastructure build included creating a trust to hold reserves at regulated banks, securing exemptive relief from inapplicable securities rules and committing to monthly reserve attestations plus annual audits, all filed publicly on SEDAR+. Stablecorp has also partnered with exchanges to list QCAD publicly.

Additionally, one of the company’s key investors, DeFi Technologies, made a strategic investment to scale QCAD and develop CAD-linked products like ETPs in September 2025, positioning it for payments, treasury and e-commerce use cases under Canada’s (Retail Payment Activities Act (RPAA) regulations.

QCAD is also working to safeguard its transactions from future threats. While the full capability of post-quantum computing isn’t here yet, QCAD is being proactive by working with partners like BTQ to implement the Quantum Stablecoin Settlement Network to ensure its transactions have world-class, future-proof security against eventual quantum threats.

“My sense is that post-quantum computing is not quite here yet. And we’re thrilled to be working with partners to actually make sure that as it becomes more real, we absolutely leverage it. (Our goal is) to have a security profile that is as strong and world-class as we can. We’re just thrilled to be working with really good partners to help us get that done.”

Recently, the Ontario Securities Commission exempted QCAD from the underwriter certificate requirements under National Instrument 41-101, which was followed by the final prospectus approval from all CSA provinces on November 24, officially launching QCAD as the first compliant CAD token. The project is now focused on the rollout to exchanges and building liquidity integrations.

Compliance and the non-security security

The regulatory status and approval process of QCAD have influenced the pace and scope of its adoption by companies as users.

QCAD operates under Canada’s unique interim stablecoin framework, requiring issuers to file a prospectus under securities laws while awaiting federal payment-focused rules.

A rigorous approval process, while essential for compliance, creates a high bar for legitimate issuers and users.

“I call us a non-security security,” said Desgagné. “Basically, we comply with all the requirements of the security regulators without (labelling ourselves) as a security.”

This clever regulatory workaround allows Stablecorp to proceed under the existing CSA framework. In order for companies to use or integrate QCAD, they must also be registered or authorized as crypto trading platforms (CTPs) or financial entities that comply with Canadian securities and fintech regulations themselves.

“By having the provincial regulators get their framework out and have us approved under it, it eliminates the key barrier that we had, which is that CTPs were basically not allowed to have these on their platform in Canada unless they were approved by the OSC. Now that the securities commission (has) approved it, our CTPs (can) have QCAD listed. That was a huge barrier.”

Regulatory overlap and the path to unification

Beyond securities regulation, QCAD must navigate Canada’s RPAA, the framework governing payment service providers. The Bank of Canada recently enacted RPAA Phase 1, creating potential overlap and ambiguity around how stablecoins fit into the payments infrastructure. The regulatory intent, however, appears aligned.

“We’re encouraged that the Bank of Canada will supervise this Stablecoin Act as well as the Payments Act, because that creates much more opportunity to bring the two together. There are no barriers that prevent us from using stablecoins in payment-related use cases. And we intend to move forward doing that.”

Legislation expected in 2026 will aim to unify rules nationwide, treating stablecoins as payments, not just securities.

“The challenge that we have in Canada is we’re moving towards what I call a three-regulator regime, which is not ideal. The securities regulators claim jurisdiction over this space. The federal government has published its Stablecoin Act, which still needs to be passed by Parliament and proclaimed. And the banks are completely exempted from the Stablecoin Act. So how you reconcile these three regimes and end up with one coherent framework is one of the outstanding issues.”

Budget 2025 attempts to clear a path for DeFi to scale legally nationwide without provincial patchwork, with a two-year, C$10 million commitment to the Bank of Canada for stablecoin oversight, as well as proposed amendments to the RPAA to explicitly cover stablecoin payments.

The bottom line

Stablecorp’s leadership sees stablecoins as foundational infrastructure enabling broader digitization.

As federal regulation takes shape in Canada alongside maturing provincial frameworks, QCAD will become a testbed for how digital rails can replace legacy settlement systems.

“I fundamentally believe that capital markets and, by extension, the economy will at some point go fully digitized,” said Desgagné. “That doesn’t happen until we build in digital land all of the boring financial market infrastructure that we have in what I call analog land: transparent, regulated exchanges, clear payment mechanisms, price discovery, good custody, etc. A stablecoin is a really powerful part of that.”

The real impact won’t be measured in token volume, but in how many transactions can settle instantly, how many barriers to entry fall away, and how many previously excluded participants gain access to financial infrastructure.

“If I want to digitize the stock exchange, where I can sell you 100 shares of Apple, and you can pay me immediately in QCAD, it eliminates the need for stock exchanges, clearing houses, collateral, T+1 settlement, margins…all of that stuff goes away. That’s just one example; banking unbanked people and making FX easier (are two more).”

Ultimately, QCAD is not just a digital token, but a pioneering test case for how regulated stablecoins can serve as the foundational digital infrastructure to eliminate legacy barriers and drive the full digitization of Canada’s capital markets and economy.

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

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(TheNewswire)

Angkor Resources Corp.

GRANDE PRAIRIE, ALBERTA (December 10, 2025): Angkor Resources Corp. (TSXV: ANK,OTC:ANKOF) (‘ANGKOR’ OR ‘THE COMPANY’) announces an additional gold target, named CZ Gol d on the west side of the Canada Wall prospect on the Andong Meas exploration license in Ratanakiri Province, Cambodia.

Angkor’s mineral exploration team has identified a gold target based on physical workings from a tunnel on the west side of the river running through the Andong Meas license. A quartz stockwork with an apparent thickness of 30 metres was mapped in the tunnel. The stockwork tended to have a northwest strike.   The target consists of multiple shallow trenches and one 47-metre-long tunnel excavated by artisanal miners. The tunnel is located on a steep slope and at the end of the tunnel, the artisanal miners drove a raise to surface following several veins.

Dennis Ouellette, VP Exploration, describes the CZ Gold  Prospect and historical work from over a decade  ago, ‘ In 2012, three holes were drilled with collars about 70 metres apart. The first hole was collared immediately outside the adit and was drilled in the same direction as the tunnel. None of the holes intersected the quartz stockwork zone but they did core immediately into a granite bereft of mafic minerals and containing abundant miarolytic cavities. The granite is likely an alaskite type granite. The holes also cored thick and frequent bands of ‘bucky’ quartz (a coarsely crystallized, non-laminating quartz). ‘  Dennis further clarified that although alaskite and bucky quartz do not host gold deposits per say, they are frequently found in close proximity to gold deposits.

Figure 1 Inside the CZ Gold tunnel showing vein and stockwork and adit.

The team uses the rainy season, generally from June to November, to review all prospects, samples, assays, and core from the prospects on each license.  As part of that exercise and with the spike in gold over the past year, analysis took place on all gold prospects, including those close to copper porphyry systems such as the Canada Wall prospect.   In this case, historical workings from artisanal miners were part of the annual review.


Click Image To View Full Size

Figure 2 Nugget in the palm of Mike Weeks, recovered from panning material from CZ Gold tunnel in a small stream directly below CZ Gold Prospect

The Company intends to conduct a surface trenching and sampling program in Q1 of 2026 on this gold target to determine the setting and orientation of the quartz stockwork. Once this has been established, a follow up diamond drill program can be planned.

Angkor also acknowledges a restart in the border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia in the northwest quadrant of Cambodia.   Evacuations of near-border communities and school closures have occurred as the conflict continues.   Although the oil project Block VIII is in the far south of Cambodia, and the Andong Meas mineral license is far to the east of the conflict, management is carefully monitoring the Andong Bor license and no work is being done there at this time._  Safety is imperative for staff and personnel so any activities in the northwest are on hold until further notice.

QUALIFIED PERSON:

Dennis Ouellette, B.Sc., P.Geo., is a member of The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA #104257) and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 (‘NI 43-101’). He is the Company’s VP Exploration on site and has reviewed and approved the technical disclosure in this document.

ABOUT Angkor Resources CORPORATION:

Angkor Resources Corp. is a public company, listed on the TSX-Venture Exchange, and is a leading resource optimizer in Cambodia working towards mineral and energy solutions across Canada and Cambodia.

The company’s mineral subsidiary, Angkor Gold Corp. in Cambodia holds two mineral exploration licenses in Cambodia with multiple prospects in copper and gold.  Both licenses are in their first two-year renewal term.

Its Cambodian energy subsidiary, EnerCam Resources, was granted an onshore oil and gas license of 7300 square kilometres in the southwest quadrant of Cambodia called Block VIII.   The company then removed all parks and protected areas and added 220 square kilometres, making the license area just over 4095 square kilometres.  EnerCam is actively advancing oil and gas exploration activities onshore to meet its mission to prove Cambodia as an oil and gas producing Nation.

Since 2022, Angkor’s Canadian subsidiary, EnerCam Exploration Ltd., has been involved in oil and gas production in Saskatchewan, Canada with measures of gas capture to reduce emissions.  ANGKOR’s carbon capture and gas conservation project is part of its long-term commitment to Environmental and Social projects and cleaner energy solutions across jurisdictions.

CONTACT: Delayne Weeks – CEO

Email:- info@angkorresources.com Website: angkor resources.com Telephone: +1 (780) 831-8722

Please follow @AngkorResources on , , , Instagram and .

Neither 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.

_____________________________________

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company, including, but not limited to the potential for gold and/or other minerals at any of the Company’s properties, the prospective nature of any claims comprising the Company’s property interests, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions, dependence upon regulatory approvals, uncertainty of sample results, timing and results o f future exploration, and the availability of financing.

Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements.

Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire – All rights reserved.

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This article has been disseminated on behalf of LaFleur Minerals Inc . and may include a paid advertisement.

MiningNewsWire Editorial Coverage : The period when a mining company advances from pure exploration into the early stages of production is often one of the most advantageous entry points for investors. This transition, when a company moves from discovery to the potential for meaningful cash flow, frequently marks a powerful value rerating. Companies that successfully navigate this development stage typically reduce operational risk, demonstrate tangible production capability and lay the groundwork for recurring revenue. For many investors, participating at this inflection point provides exposure before the full upside associated with initial production growth is recognized. The opportunity has the potential to be even more compelling when a company operates in a world-class jurisdiction, controls its own infrastructure and trades below the estimated replacement value of its assets. This is the case for LaFleur Minerals Inc. (CSE: LFLR,OTC:LFLRF) (OTCQB: LFLRF) (FSE: 3WK0) ( profile ), which owns a fully permitted and modernized gold mill in Québec’s Abitibi region and is positioned further along the development curve than many peers. With broad land holdings, an advancing flagship deposit and a clear path toward production, LaFleur is well exposed to the explorer-to-producer transition that has historically delivered some of the strongest returns in the mining sector. The company is working alongside other companies focused on establishing leadership roles in the mining industry including Nicola Mining (TSX.V: NIM) (OTCQB: HUSIF), ESGold Corp. (CSE: ESAU) (OTC: ESAUF), SSR Mining Inc. (NASDAQ: SSRM) and Troilus Mining Corp. (TSX: TLG) (OTC: CHXMF)

  • LaFleur’s strategy centers on a vertically integrated approach anchored by both its 100%-owned Beacon Gold Mill and its nearby Swanson Gold Project.
  • To continue advancing Swanson toward production and strengthen the data required for future engineering studies, LaFleur launched a 7,500-meter diamond drilling campaign this year across more than 50 regional prospects.
  • To further validate Swanson’s development potential, LaFleur has begun permitting a 100,000-tonne bulk sample.
  • One of LaFleur’s most significant assets is the Beacon Gold Mill, a fully permitted and recently upgraded processing facility in Val-d’Or’s established mining district.
  • LaFleur has outlined a restart plan for the Beacon Mill requiring C$5–6 million to execute over a six-to-eight-month period.

Click here to view the custom infographic of the LaFleur Minerals editorial.

Development Model Supports Streamlined Path to Production

LaFleur’s strategy centers on a vertically integrated approach anchored by both its 100%-owned Beacon Gold Mill and its nearby Swanson Gold Project. By planning to supply its mill with mineralized material from its own deposit, the company minimizes dependence on third-party processors and establishes one of the region’s most cost-effective routes to production.

This structure differentiates LaFleur from many junior miners that must rely on toll-milling agreements or shared facilities, arrangements that often introduce delays and reduce margins. In contrast, LaFleur’s ownership of both the mining asset and the processing infrastructure provides a more direct avenue for monetizing ore, accelerating cash flow and enabling a self-reliant operational model.

At the center of this strategy is the Swanson Gold Project , an advanced exploration asset supported by more than 36,000 meters of historic drilling across 242 drill holes. This extensive work underpins the current resource estimate: 123.4 thousand ounces of gold in the Indicated category and 64.5 thousand ounces in the Inferred category . The scale of the existing dataset provides a strong platform for mine planning.

Situated in the world-renowned Abitibi Greenstone Belt, which has produced more than 200 million ounces of gold, Swanson benefits from a region known for hosting long-lived, commercially successful mining operations. The combination of geologic strength, large land position and room for new discoveries makes Swanson a key asset in LaFleur’s journey toward production.

Recent land consolidation increased Swanson’s footprint to more than 18,300 hectares , covering 445 claims and a mining lease . This expanded ownership enhances control over mineralized systems and gives the company access to new targets for drilling. The project lies approximately 60 kilometers from LaFleur’s Beacon Gold Mill, making future haulage direct and cost-effective.

Together, Swanson and Beacon form a distinctive pairing: a promising near-production deposit and a fully permitted, scalable processing facility under single ownership—an uncommon advantage for a junior gold company preparing to enter production.

Robust Drilling Program Aims to Grow Resources, Build Confidence

To continue advancing Swanson toward production and strengthen the data required for future engineering studies, LaFleur launched a 7,500-meter diamond drilling campaign this year across more than 50 regional prospects. These include targets at Swanson as well as nearby zones such as Bartec, Jolin and Marimac, each exhibiting favorable geology and encouraging early indications.

The program is designed to follow high-grade structures, test continuity and expand mineralization along strike. Early sampling from the Jolin area returned assays up to 11.7 g/t gold , demonstrating compelling potential for additional near-surface zones within the broader property position. Several drill holes are also intended to evaluate shallow mineralization that could support future open-pit scenarios. Confirming near-surface continuity is particularly valuable given the proximity to the Beacon Gold Mill, which enables rapid monetization of shallow material once production begins.

In parallel, LaFleur is also conducting a 10-hole twin-hole program at Swanson. This initiative aims to verify historic drilling, refine grade distribution models and generate fresh core for metallurgical and ore-sorting evaluations. The results will feed into an updated mineral resource estimate and support the company’s Preliminary Economic Assessment (‘PEA’), prepared by Environmental Resources Management (‘ERM’). The PEA will evaluate geology, mine design, processing parameters and cost structures to frame the initial development scenario.

Together, these technical programs are enhancing the geological understanding of LaFleur’s district-scale holdings and moving the company toward its longer-term objective of defining a resource exceeding one million ounces of gold. As the work progresses, it reinforces Swanson’s potential as a scalable production asset supported by a recently upgraded mill.

Bulk Sample Permitting Supports Near-Term Production Readiness

To further validate Swanson’s development potential, LaFleur has begun permitting a 100,000-tonne bulk sample. The sample indicates an estimated average grade of 1.89 g/t gold, containing roughly 6,350 ounces, around 3% of the current mineral resource.

Bulk samples play a crucial role in transitioning to production by confirming geological interpretations, validating metallurgy and generating initial processing revenue. In LaFleur’s case, ownership of the Beacon Mill allows the company to process bulk sample material on-site, reducing costs and accelerating early cash flow.

The company is progressing closure and permitting requirements with Québec’s well-established regulatory system , which is recognized for its clarity and efficiency. Because the Beacon Mill is already fully permitted, LaFleur’s focus is primarily on mine-site conditions rather than large-scale infrastructure, reducing the overall time needed to begin extraction.

ERM’s Technical Mining Services Group is completing the PEA for Swanson, which will include mine design, resource modeling, metallurgical work, flow sheets and cost estimates. The study will also incorporate prevailing gold-price assumptions, which remain historically strong.

The bulk sample will provide critical operational insights, including dilution, mining conditions and mill throughput, which will guide both the PEA and future feasibility work. These milestones collectively support LaFleur’s advancing timeline toward near-term production.

Strategic Asset with Significant Replacement Value

One of LaFleur’s most significant assets is the Beacon Gold Mill , a fully permitted and recently upgraded processing facility in Val-d’Or’s established mining district. Acquired through Monarch Mining’s restructuring in 2024, the mill received approximately C$20 million in upgrades in 2022 and is capable of processing more than 750 tonnes per day.

The facility is supported by year-round road access, skilled labor, dependable power infrastructure and proximity to prospective deposits. Beyond serving LaFleur’s own production plans, Beacon could later generate toll-milling revenue from other explorers in the region.

An independent assessment by Montréal engineering group Bumigeme estimated the replacement value of the mill and tailings facility at C$71.5 million, with only C$4.1 million in required rehabilitation. The mill is free of royalties and backed by a C$2.4 million reclamation bond, emphasizing its strong condition and low restart cost. Relative to LaFleur’s current market valuation, Beacon represents an unusually valuable core asset.

Having a fully permitted mill in place significantly shortens the otherwise lengthy, multiyear process required to build new processing infrastructure. In regions like the Abitibi, where environmental standards are rigorous and permitting is comprehensive, access to an existing facility provides a substantial strategic edge. The Beacon Mill positions LaFleur ahead of local competitors that still face the challenges of designing, funding and securing approvals for new milling capacity. When combined with the resource strength at Swanson and the company’s broad land position, the Beacon facility creates a direct and achievable route to production, reinforcing LaFleur’s goal of becoming one of Québec’s emerging gold producers.

Restart Plan, Momentum and Catalysts

LaFleur has outlined a restart plan for the Beacon Mill requiring C$5–6 million to execute over a six-to-eight-month period. Production ramp-up is expected to begin early next year, with full capacity targeted by year-end. Planned expenditures include approximately C$3.8 million in equipment upgrades and C$1.8 million for tailings facility improvements, ensuring safe and efficient operation in line with Québec regulations.

The restart occurs amid heightened regional consolidation across Abitibi. Recent deals, including Fresnillo’s acquisition of Probe Gold, highlight growing interest in companies with both resources and infrastructure. Probe’s implied valuation of $70–$80 per ounce of gold in the ground provides a local benchmark. Against that backdrop, LaFleur’s combined Swanson resource and Beacon Mill appear undervalued.

To support the restart, the company engaged FMI Securities to initiate a Gold-Linked Convertible Note offering for up to C$7 million. This follows the completion of a C$2.88 million LIFE Offering and C$1.66 million flow-through financing, demonstrating strong investor commitment to LaFleur’s development plans.

With advancing permits, upcoming bulk sample work, continued drilling success and an approaching PEA, LaFleur is strategically positioned within one of Canada’s most productive gold regions. The company’s integrated model, infrastructure ownership and near-term production pathway align squarely with a stage of development long recognized for generating substantial investor upside.

Major Developments Reshaping Today’s Mining Landscape

The mining sector continues to show steady momentum as operators advance projects, secure key partnerships and report strong technical results across multiple jurisdictions. These developments underscore the ongoing expansion and resilience of the global mining ecosystem as companies work to meet rising demand for essential minerals.

Nicola Mining Inc. (TSX.V: NIM) (OTCQB: HUSIF) reported that Blue Lagoon Resources has started transporting high-grade gold and silver millfeed to BC-based Nicola’s mill. The company had previously announced that the two parties had entered into a long-term partnership and that Nicola, which is also a major Blue Lagoon shareholder, had committed to providing a non-dilutive $2.0 million line of credit to augment the latter’s balance sheet. Nicola Mining officials noted that they are pleased to see Blue Lagoon achieve this significant milestone as it morphs Dome Mountain Gold Mine from a project to a producing mine.

ESGold Corp . (CSE: ESAU) (OTC: ESAUF) has announced the completion of the main mill building at its fully permitted Montauban Gold-Silver Project in Quebec. This marks a key step on the company’s path toward production. With structural work finalized, ESGold is now advancing to equipment procurement and installation, moving the project into its commissioning phase. According to the company, the Montauban mill building structure, concrete flooring and interior divisions have been fully completed. The on-site gold room and laboratory are also complete, providing facilities for metallurgical testing and exploration analysis, while securely housing gold and silver doré prior to shipment to off takers and refineries.

SSR Mining Inc. (NASDAQ: SSRM) is reporting the results of a Technical Report Summary for the Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mine, located in Colorado. Highlights of the report include after-tax NPV of $824 million at consensus gold prices averaging $3,240 per ounce over the life of the mine, with after-tax NPVs increasing to approximately $1.5 million at a gold price of $4,000 per ounce; a 12-year mine life, 26 years of total production based on 2.8 million ounces of gold Mineral Reserves; an average annual production of 141,000 ounces of gold over the three-year period from 2026 to 2028; and Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources, exclusive of Mineral Reserves, totaling 4.8 million ounces of gold with an additional 2 million ounces of Inferred Mineral Resources, highlighting the potential for future growth.

Troilus Mining Corp. (TSX: TLG) (OTC: CHXMF), formerly Troilus Gold Corp., was awarded the Entrepreneur of the Year distinction by the Québec Mineral Exploration Association. The award was announced at the association’s annual Xplor 2025 convention and Recognition Gala. The award celebrates companies that have demonstrated exceptional progress, vision and leadership in advancing a Quebec mineral project. Troilus was recognized for the disciplined advancement of the Troilus copper-gold project, marking a transformational year defined by major milestones in engineering, permitting, and financing as the Company continues to move towards construction.

Across the industry, progress in project buildout, resource validation and strategic collaboration reflects a broader shift toward disciplined growth and long-term value creation. As mining organizations push forward with investments in infrastructure, exploration and operational excellence, they collectively demonstrate how innovative planning and strong execution continue to propel the sector.

For more information, visit LaFleur Minerals Profile .

Qualified Person Statement – All scientific and technical information contained in the LaFleur Minerals Market Awareness Profile (‘MAP’) has been reviewed and approved by Louis Martin, P.Geo. (OGQ), Exploration Manager and Technical Advisor of the company and considered a Qualified Person for the purposes of NI 43-101 .

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// Not for distribution to the United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States //

Copper Quest Exploration Inc. (CSE: CQX,OTC:IMIMF; FRA: 3MX) (‘ Copper Quest ‘ or the ‘ Company ‘) is pleased to announce that it has completed its positive due diligence of the arms-length Option to Purchase Agreement (the ‘ Agreement ‘) dated November 7th, 2025 and previously announced November 14, 2025 . The Agreement is with 0847114 B.C. Ltd. (‘ Privco ‘), a British Columbia Incorporated company that holds 100% ownership, title, and interest in the Alpine Gold Property (the ‘ Property ‘), located in the West Kootenay region of British Columbia (the ‘ Acquisition ‘). The Company plans to immediately begin the process to complete the Acquisition of the Property.

Highlights of the Alpine Gold Property

  • 2018 NI43-101 Inferred Resource of 268,000 tonnes estimated using a cut-off grade of 5.0 g/t Au and an average grade of 16.52 g/t Au that represents an inferred resource of 142,000 oz of gold (McCuaig & Giroux, 2018).
  • Substantial opportunity to grow the maiden Alpine resource to the east-west and to depth with only about 300m of the roughly 2km long vein system explored to date by underground mine workings and drilling.
  • Estimated 24,000 tonnes Run of Mine mineralized stockpile on surface presenting a possible near term cash flow opportunity.
  • 1,650 meters of clean and dry underground workings accessing sampled and mineable zones.
  • At least 4 additional relatively unexplored vein systems on the Property (Black Prince, Cold Blow, Gold Crown & past-producing King Solomon), all hosting historic high-grade gold values.
  • Road accessible 4,611.49-hectare Property including 15 Crown Grants (1 with surface rights) and 19 staked mineral claims with all-season operation potential (Figure 1).
  • Additions of Mr. Allan Matovich to the Board of Directors. Mr. Ted Muraro and Mr. John Mirko as Technical Advisors on closing. They have a combined mining and exploration experience of 150+ years in the industry.

The 4,611.49-hectare Property is approximately 20 kilometers northeast of the City of Nelson (Figure 1) and hosts the former operating underground mine with a recorded production of approximately 16,810 tonnes of mineralized vein material (Table 1). This material contained 356,360 grams of gold, 222,054 grams of silver, 49,329 kilograms of lead and 17,167 kilograms of zinc. The other 4 significant vein systems on the property will also be explored including the Black Prince and Cold Blow quartz veins approximately 3km to the northeast of the Alpine mine, the Gold Crown vein system 600m southeast, and the past-producing King Solomon vein workings 1.8km to the south. Further information about the Alpine Gold property will be forthcoming in the upcoming weeks.

Brian Thurston, President & CEO of Copper Quest, commented : ‘ The Alpine Gold property presents a tremendous opportunity to create near term value for our shareholders through exposure to an all-time high gold market while we continue to also focus on our efforts of copper exploration. Our recent closing of approximately $2 million in financing ensures that our shareholders will see work put into the ground to advance our multiple properties. We look forward to welcoming Mr. Matovich, Mr. Muraro and Mr. Mirko to our team in the very near future.’

Figure 1: Location Claim Map

Figure 1: Location Claim Map

Appointment of Mr. Allan Matovich as Director

Copper Quest is also pleased to announce that upon closing of the acquisition, Mr. Allan Matovich will join the Company’s Board of Directors. Mr. Matovich is the principal owner of the Alpine Gold Property.

Mr. Matovich has 60+ years of mining and exploration experience in Canada and the United States. He first started with Cominco in Trail BC working in the smelter operation. Mr. Matovich then started Matovich Mining Industries where they supplied considerable tonnages of siliceous flux materials, lead and zinc concentrates to Cominco for over 20 years. Mr. Matovich then opened a mining operation in 1997 in Northern British Columbia to supply barite for drilling fluids in the oil and gas industry. This mining operation is still in production today. Mr. Matovich also opened a barite operation in Washington State that is going into production. He also worked with Halliburton, Baker Hughes, and Newmont and was very successful. In 2000, Mr. Matovich purchased the Alpine Gold Mine and since then has spent a considerable amount of time proving up the project.

Mr. Matovich commented I am very pleased to bring the Alpine Gold Property to Copper Quest and join as a director. The company has a fantastic portfolio of critical mineral projects advancing and the Alpine Gold Project gives a potential near term cash flow opportunity along with upside to grow the current resource with drilling. I look forward to working with the Copper Quest team to help create value for all stakeholders involved.’

Table 1 – Production History – Minfile (082FNW127) for Alpine Mine for gold (Au) and silver (Ag)

YEAR Tonnes Tonnes Au Grams Ag Grams Est Grade Est Grade
Mined Milled Recovered Recovered Au (g/t) Ag (g/t)
1988 200 90 198 591 2.20 6.57
*1948 16,889 11,384 25.32 17.07
*1947 2,768 1,866 15.38 10.37
*1946 11,042 5,785 18.59 9.74
*1942 56,079 34,182 824.69 502.68
1941 11,517 11,517 219,350 130,011 18.26 11.29
1940 3,992 3,992 57,852 35,333 14.49 8.85
1939 3 0 62 62
1938 35 0 1,120 902
1915 4 0 1,938

*ore milled not reported

Appointment of Mr. Ted Muraro as Technical Advisor to the Board

Mr. Muraro will be appointed as Technical Advisor to the board on closing of the transaction. Mr. Theodore (Ted) W. Muraro has accumulated over six decades of experience in mineral exploration, including 35 years with Cominco where he advanced through Exploration to serve as the companies Chief Geologist and Internal Consulting Geologist. Early in his career, Mr. Muraro gained underground experience at Keno Hill, HB Mine, Sullivan, and Western Mines. His tenure at Cominco was marked by direct involvement in the discovery and subsequent successful development of the Westmin Mine at Buttle Lake, the Polaris Mine on Little Cornwallis Island in the high Arctic and Snip Mine on the Iskut River.

Following his service at Cominco, Mr. Muraro assumed the role of Vice President, Exploration at Romanex and International Barytex Resources, contributing his expertise to international gold projects.

Mr. Muraro, who was awarded the Spud Huestis award in 2021 for his outstanding contributions to the industry and excellence in exploration, worked as an independent consultant (T.W. Muraro Consulting 1993-2016) on base metal and gold exploration projects around the world until his retirement in 2016. In these later years, he served on several boards as Director and/or Advisor, most recently with Imperial Metals. Mr. Muraro’s working relationship with Al Matovich started in the Rossland Mining Camp and shifted to the Alpine Property in the late 80’s.

Appointment of Mr. John Mirko as Technical Advisor to the Board.

Mr. Mirko will be appointed as Technical Advisor to the board on closing of the transaction. Mr. Mirko has over 40 years’ experience in the mining industry, past President, and Founder of Canam Alpine Ventures Ltd. (recently sold to Vizsla Resources Ltd.), currently President and Founder of Canam Mining Corp. and Rokmaster Resources Corporation.

From 1986 to 2010 Mr. Mirko the founder, President-CEO and Director of 4 public mining-exploration companies and a founder and Director of 3 others. He has been self-employed in the sector since 1972 as a prospector, contractor and consultant involved in exploration, development, and mine construction of various projects in 12 counties, and commercial production of mineral concentrates and metal products from 5 of the projects.

In 2008, Mr. Mirko was a recipient of the ‘E. A. Scholtz Medal for Excellence in Mine Development’ from the Association for Mineral Exploration of British Columbia, and in 2009, the Mining Association of British Columbia’s ‘Mining and Sustainability Award’ for the MAX Mine.

Mr. Mirko is currently a member in good standing of the Society of Economic Geologists, Inc., the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum, the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada and AME BC.

Transaction Details

The Agreement provides for the purchase of all the minerals claims and crown grants held by the Privco that make up the Alpine Gold Property. At closing Copper Quest will issue 14,177,517 Copper Quest common shares to Privco at a deemed price of $0.175c per share. The Shares will have a 24-month escrow agreement from closing date.

Additionally, Copper Quest will pay $225,000 towards the 2025 expenditures of the Property that was completed earlier this year and a 2 percent NSR will be granted to Privco on closing of the Acquisition with half being able to be bought back for CAD$1-million.

Closing is subject to exchange approval and other customary closing conditions. A finder’s fee is payable in common shares in connection with the transaction.

Qualified Person

Brian Thurston, P.Geo., the Company’s President, CEO and a qualified person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects , has reviewed and approved the technical information in this news release.

Increase in Financing

To accommodate increased interest in the Private Placement previously announced December 1, 2025 , of which $1,927,000 was previously closed on December 5, 2025, the Company announces that it may further issue up to 1,500,000 common shares of the Company to be issued on a flow-through basis (‘the ‘ Flow-Through Shares ‘) at a price of $0.19 per Flow-Through Share for aggregate gross proceeds of $285,000, no later than December 22, 2025. All securities to be issued thereunder will be subject to a statutory hold period under applicable Canadian securities laws of four months and one day from the date of issuance.

Each FT Share constitutes a ‘flow-through share’ within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the ‘ Tax Act ‘) and the gross proceeds of the Private Placement will be used by the Company for exploration and related programs, which qualify as ‘Canadian exploration expenses’ and ‘flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures’, as such terms are defined in the Tax Act, in connection with Copper Quest’s projects in British Columbia.

The securities described herein have not been registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the ‘ U.S. Securities Act ‘), or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold absent registration or compliance with an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This news 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 Copper

Copper is an essential industrial metal at the heart of the global energy transition and modern infrastructure. It plays a critical role in electrification, renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, data centers, and smart technologies. With global demand rising and new supply challenged by declining grades, complex permitting, and underinvestment, the copper market faces persistent deficits and growing geopolitical scrutiny. Recent U.S. policy announcements, including import tariffs and initiatives to secure domestic and allied supply chains, underscore copper’s strategic importance and the need for resilient, localized resource exploration, development, production and processing capacity.

ABOUT Copper Quest Exploration Inc.

Copper Quest (CSE: CQX,OTC:IMIMF; OTCQB: IMIMF; FRA: 3MX) is committed to building shareholder value through acquisitions, discovery-driven exploration, disciplined execution, and responsible development of its North American Critical Mineral portfolio of assets. Please visit our website at www.copper.quest .

The Company’s land package currently comprises five projects that span over 40,000+ hectares in great mining jurisdictions as well as the Kitimat Cu-Au Project and the past-producing Alpine Gold Mine that are both pending acquisition following due diligence.

Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the Stars Property, a porphyry copper-molybdenum discovery, covering 9,693 hectares in central British Columbia’s Bulkley Porphyry Belt. Contiguous to the Stars Property, Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the 5,389-hectare Stellar Property. CQX also has an earn-in option up to 80% and joint-venture agreement on the 4,700-hectare porphyry copper-molybdenum Rip Project, also in the Bulkley Porphyry Belt.

Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the Nekash Copper-Gold Project, a porphyry exploration opportunity located in Lemhi County, Idaho, along the prolific Idaho-Montana porphyry copper belt that hosts world-class systems such as Butte and CUMO. The project is fully road-accessible via maintained U.S. highways and forest service roads and currently consists of 70 unpatented federal lode claims covering 585 hectares.

Copper Quest has a 100% interest in the Thane Project located in the Quesnel Terrane of Northern BC which spans over 20,658 ha with 10 high-priority targets identified demonstrating significant copper and precious metal mineralization potential.

Copper Quest’s leadership and advisory teams are senior mining industry executives who have a wealth of technical and capital markets experience and a strong track record of discovering, financing, developing, and operating mining projects on a global scale. Copper Quest is committed to sustainable and responsible business activities in line with industry best practices, supportive of all stakeholders, including the local communities in which it operates. The Company’s common shares are principally listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange under the symbol ‘CQX’.

On behalf of the Board of Copper Quest Exploration Inc.

Brian Thurston, P.Geo.
Chief Executive Officer and Director
Tel: 778-949-1829

For further information contact:

Investor Relations
info@copper.quest

Forward Looking Information

This news release contains certain ‘forward-looking information’ and ‘forward-looking statements’ (collectively, ‘ forward-looking statements ‘) within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact included herein, including without limitation, statements regarding the terms and completion of the Flow-Through Offering, the payment of finder’s fees and issuance of Finder’s Warrants, the anticipated closing date and the planned use of proceeds of the Flow-Through Offering, and future operations and activities of Copper Quest, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as ‘expects’, ‘anticipates’, ‘believes’, ‘intends’, ‘estimates’, ‘potential’, ‘possible’, and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results ‘will’, ‘may’, ‘could’, or ‘should’ occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation, the ability to obtain regulatory approval of the Flow-Through Offering, risks associated with possible accidents and other risks associated with mineral exploration operations, the risk that the Company will encounter unanticipated geological factors, risks associated with the interpretation of exploration results, the possibility that the Company may not be able to secure permitting and other governmental clearances necessary to carry out the Company’s exploration plans, the risk that the Company will not be able to raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plans, and the risk of political uncertainties and regulatory or legal changes that might interfere with the Company’s business and prospects. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these items. The Company does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by applicable securities laws.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not reviewed, approved or disapproved the contents of this press release, and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4ec3985f-a43a-4cd8-b8a2-03f81860fa0f

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Fortune Bay Corp. (TSXV: FOR,OTC:FTBYF) (FWB: 5QN) (OTCQB: FTBYF) (‘Fortune Bay’ or the ‘Company’) is pleased to announce the adoption of its formal Environmental, Social & Governance (‘ESG’) Policy (the ‘ESG Policy’), strengthening the Company’s commitment to responsible exploration and development across its portfolio of gold and uranium projects.

Fortune Bay Corp. Logo (CNW Group/Fortune Bay Corp.)

The ESG Policy provides a clear framework for how Fortune Bay operates today and how it intends to advance its projects in alignment with community expectations, environmental stewardship, and industry best practices. This policy formalizes principles that have guided the Company’s approach for years: transparency, respect, scientific rigour, and proactive engagement with local partners.

Highlights of Fortune Bay’s ESG Policy

    • Responsible Environmental Practices:
      The Company will continue to prioritize minimizing its environmental footprint through data-driven decisions, robust baseline studies, and early integration of environmental considerations in project design.
      • Local Economic Participation:
        The Company is committed to creating opportunities—direct and indirect—that contribute to local economies, including contracting, employment, training, and skills development where possible and appropriate during exploration and development activities.

      ‘Responsible development has always been integral to how we operate,’ said Dale Verran, CEO of Fortune Bay. ‘Formalizing our ESG Policy reinforces that commitment as we advance our projects toward key milestones. Whether it’s establishing baseline environmental work, or maintaining transparent communication with our stakeholders, this policy ensures our values remain at the forefront of every decision we make.’

      Implementation Across the Portfolio

      The ESG Policy will guide ongoing and upcoming activities across Fortune Bay’s portfolio, including:

      • Environmental baseline studies and community engagement underway at Goldfields, supporting future regulatory engagement.
      • Establishment of local exploration agreements and stakeholder relationships in Chiapas, Mexico.

      The full ESG Policy is available on the Company’s website at https://fortunebaycorp.com/responsibility.

      About Fortune Bay

      Fortune Bay Corp. (TSXV:FOR,OTC:FTBYF; FWB:5QN; OTCQB:FTBYF) is a gold exploration and development company advancing high-potential assets in Canada and Mexico. With a strategy focused on discovery, resource growth and early-stage development, the Company targets value creation at the steepest part of the Value Creation Curve. Its portfolio includes the development-ready Goldfields Project in Saskatchewan, the resource-expansion Poma Rosa Project in Mexico, and an optioned uranium portfolio in the Athabasca Basin providing non-dilutive capital and upside exposure. Backed by a technically proven team and tight capital structure, Fortune Bay is positioned for multiple near-term catalysts. For more information, visit www.fortunebaycorp.com or contact info@fortunebaycorp.com.

      On behalf of Fortune Bay Corp.

      ‘Dale Verran’
      Chief Executive Officer
      902-334-1919

      Cautionary Statement

      Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management’s current estimates, beliefs, intentions, and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. Words such as ‘expects’, ‘aims’, ‘anticipates’, ‘targets’, ‘goals’, ‘projects’, ‘intends’, ‘plans’, ‘believes’, ‘seeks’, ‘estimates’, ‘continues’, ‘may’, variations of such words, and similar expressions and references to future periods, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements, and include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: the results of the Updated PEA, including future Project opportunities, future operating and capital costs, closure costs, AISC, the projected NPV, IRR, timelines, permit timelines, and the ability to obtain the requisite permits, economics and associated returns of the Project, the technical viability of the Project, the market and future price of and demand for gold, the environmental impact of the Project, and the ongoing ability to work cooperatively with stakeholders, including Indigenous Nations, local Municipalities and local levels of government. Since forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and address future events and conditions, by their very nature they involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Although these statements are based on information currently available to the Company, the Company provides no assurance that actual results will meet management’s expectations. Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward- looking information could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Forward looking information in this news release includes, but is not limited to, the Company’s objectives, goals or future plans, statements, exploration results, potential mineralization, the estimation of mineral resources, exploration and mine development plans, timing of the commencement of operations and estimates of market conditions. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking information include, but are not limited to failure to identify mineral resources, failure to convert estimated mineral resources to reserves, the inability to complete a feasibility study which recommends a production decision, the preliminary nature of metallurgical test results, delays in obtaining or failures to obtain required governmental, environmental or other project approvals, political risks, inability to fulfill the duty to accommodate Indigenous Nations and local Municipalities, uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future, changes in equity markets, inflation, changes in exchange rates, fluctuations in commodity prices, delays in the development of projects, capital and operating costs varying significantly from estimates and the other risks involved in the mineral exploration and development industry, and those risks set out in the Company’s public documents filed on SEDAR. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking information in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information, which only applies as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that such events will occur in the disclosed time frames or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law. For more information on Fortune Bay, readers should refer to Fortune Bay’s website at www.fortunebaycorp.com.

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

      SOURCE Fortune Bay Corp.

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      Trading resumes in:

      Company: Sun Summit Minerals Corp.

      TSX-Venture Symbol: SMN

      All Issues: Yes

      Resumption (ET): 8:00 AM

      CIRO can make a decision to impose a temporary suspension (halt) of trading in a security of a publicly-listed company. Trading halts are implemented to ensure a fair and orderly market. CIRO is the national self-regulatory organization which oversees all investment dealers and trading activity on debt and equity marketplaces in Canada.

      SOURCE Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) – Halts/Resumptions

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      TSX-V: WLR

      Walker Lane Resources Ltd. (TSXV: WLR,OTC:CMCXF) (Frankfurt: 6YL) ‘Walker Lane’) announces that it has engaged Stockhouse Publishing Limited, Marcus Brummell, and Baystreet.ca to conduct marketing and publishing services. The purpose of these marketing activities is to increase market awareness and visibility of Company activities, detail recent acquisitions, and generate a better understanding of the exploration potential of its gold and silver prospects in Nevada and Canada. 

      Walker Lane Resources Ltd. logo (CNW Group/Walker Lane Resources Ltd)

      The Company has entered into contracts dated August 15, 2025 and have been fully paid in cash. Both of these firms are arm’s length service providers and are in accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange (‘TSX-V’) and applicable securities laws.

      Stockhouse Publishing Limited

      Stockhouse Publishing Limited (‘Stockhouse’) will complete marketing and advertising services designed to connect Walker Lane with North America’s largest small cap investor community. Stockhouse’s investor community includes investors from Canada, United States, Australia, New Zealand, China, Germany and the United Kingdom. The campaign is expected to commenced in October, 2025 and will continue for up to a 12-month period at an aggregate cost of $75,000 CAD.

      Marcus Brummell

      The Company engaged Marcus Brummell of Langley B.C. (‘consultant’) in a contract dated August 15, 2025 to conduct a marketing awareness campaign of Company activities. Mr. Brummell has considerable experience in creating and publishing marketing materials for the mining sector and implements projects aimed to increase market awareness levels. The consultant was fully paid in cash for a total of $10,000 CDN for a minimum of 38 days of services but is also continuing to promote activities of the Company beyond the initial contractual obligation as a goodwill gesture to continue efforts to improve market visibility of the Company activities as some planned activities had been delayed for reasons beyond the control of the Company.

      Baystreet.ca

      Baystreet.ca (‘Baystreet’) is one of the leading financial content providers in Canada and has been actively assisting a broad range of clientele including junior mining companies for the past 27 years. Baystreet have established contacts with over 100 tier one financial publications with tens of thousands of downstream partners in Canada and the United States. The company established a contract to Baystreet to provide marketing services for a three-month period with the campaign commencing in October 2025 and continuing through to the end of December, 2025, at an aggregate total cost of $66,000 CAD plus applicable taxes. However, after the initial month, the parties reached a mutual agreement to discontinue the marketing program and a refund of $44,000 plus GST for two months of services not completed will be provided to the Company by Baystreet.ca

      These consultants have no direct or indirect interest in the Company and do not intend to acquire an interest in the Company during the period of their contracts. The Consultants will be communicating directly with existing prospective investors. Any information distributions will be reviewed and approved by the Company prior to release. The services of these consultants are being provided in accordance with the policies and the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (‘TSX-V’) and also align with the policies the BC Securities Commission.

      If anyone would like further details on the marketing plans of the Company you are asked to contact Kevin Brewer at the contact information below.

      About Walker Lane Resources Ltd.

      Walker Lane Resources Ltd. is a growth-stage exploration company focused on the exploration of high-grade gold, silver and polymetallic deposits in the Walker Lane Gold Trend District in Nevada and the Rancheria Silver District in Yukon/B.C. and other property assets in Yukon. The Company intends to initiate an aggressive exploration program to advance the Tule Canyon (Walker Lane, Nevada) and Amy (Rancheria Silver, B.C.) projects through an aggressive drilling program to resource definition stage in the near future.

      On behalf of the Board:
      ‘Kevin Brewer’
      Kevin Brewer, President, CEO and Director
      Walker Lane Resources Ltd.

      Cautionary and Forward Looking Statements

      This press release and related figures, contain certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to as forward-looking statements). These statements relate to future events or our future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The use of any of the words ‘anticipate’, ‘plans’, ‘continue’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘may’, ‘will’, ‘project’, ‘predict’, ‘potential’, ‘should’, ‘believe’ ‘targeted’, ‘can’, ‘anticipates’, ‘intends’, ‘likely’, ‘should’, ‘could’ or grammatical variations thereof and similar expressions is intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. These statements speak only as of the date of this presentation. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning: our strategy and priorities including certain statements included in this presentation are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding the Tule Canyon, Cambridge, Silver Mountain, and Shamrock Properties in Nevada (USA), and its properties including Silverknife and Amy properties in British Columbia, the Silver Hart, Blue Heaven and Logjam properties in Yukon and the Bridal Veil property in Newfoundland and Labrador all of which now comprise the mineral property assets of WLR. WLR has assumed other assets of CMC Metals Ltd. including common share holdings of North Bay Resources Inc. (OTC-US: NBRI) and all conditions and agreements pertaining to the sale of the Bishop mill gold processing facility and remain subject to the condition of the option of the Silverknife property with Coeur Mining Inc. (TSX:CDE). These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to the Company and assumptions the Company believes are reasonable. The Company has made various assumptions, including, among others, that: the historical information related to the Company’s properties is reliable; the Company’s operations are not disrupted or delayed by unusual geological or technical problems; the Company has the ability to explore the Company’s properties; the Company will be able to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to execute its business plan; the Company’s current corporate activities will proceed as expected; general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; and budgeted costs and expenditures are and will continue to be accurate.

      Actual results and developments may differ materially from results and developments discussed in the forward-looking statements as they are subject to a number of significant risks and uncertainties, including: public health threats; fluctuations in metals prices, price of consumed commodities and currency markets; future profitability of mining operations; access to personnel; results of exploration and development activities, accuracy of technical information; risks related to ownership of properties; risks related to mining operations; risks related to mineral resource figures being estimates based on interpretations and assumptions which may result in less mineral production under actual conditions than is currently anticipated; the interpretation of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; changes in operating expenses; changes in general market and industry conditions; changes in legal or regulatory requirements; other risk factors set out in this presentation; and other risk factors set out in the Company’s public disclosure documents. Although the Company has attempted to identify significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other risks that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Certain of these risks and uncertainties are beyond the Company’s control. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements are qualified by these cautionary statements, and there can be no assurances that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences or benefits to, or effect on, the Company.

      The information contained in this presentation is derived from management of the Company and otherwise from publicly available information and does not purport to contain all of the information that an investor may desire to have in evaluating the Company. The information has not been independently verified, may prove to be imprecise, and is subject to material updating, revision and further amendment. While management is not aware of any misstatements regarding any industry data presented herein, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made or given by or on behalf of the Company as to the accuracy, completeness or fairness of the information or opinions contained in this presentation and no responsibility or liability is accepted by any person for such information or opinions. The forward-looking statements and information in this presentation speak only as of the date of this presentation and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, prospective investors should not read forward-looking information as guarantees of future performance or results and should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Nothing in this presentation is, or should be relied upon as, a promise or representation as to the future. To the extent any forward-looking statement in this presentation constitutes ‘future-oriented financial information’ or ‘financial outlooks’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, such information is being provided to demonstrate the anticipated market penetration and the reader is cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for any other purpose and the reader should not place undue reliance on such future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks. Future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks, as with forward-looking statements generally, are, without limitation, based on the assumptions and subject to the risks set out above. The Company’s actual financial position and results of operations may differ materially from management’s current expectations and, as a result, the Company’s revenue and expenses. The Company’s financial projections were not prepared with a view toward compliance with published guidelines of International Financial Reporting Standards and have not been examined, reviewed or compiled by the Company’s accountants or auditors. The Company’s financial projections represent management’s estimates as of the dates indicated thereon.

      SOURCE Walker Lane Resources Ltd

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      Copper prices were volatile in 2025 due to supply-side constraints, high demand and geopolitical concerns.

      Experts are calling for many of these trends to carry over into 2026, sending the market into deficit.

      Beyond supply and demand fundamentals, copper will also be met with global uncertainty as China continues with its recovery efforts, the US pursues new trade plans, including a renegotiation of the Canada-US-Mexico trade pact, and XXX pressures to end the ongoing conflict in Eastern Europe.

      Copper supply in 2026

      A significant copper story that developed in 2025 was strained supply. Throughout the year, significant events dragged on the availability of mined copper, delaying its arrival to global markets.

      Early on, there was a temporary shutdown of BHP’s (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BHP) Escondida mine, the largest copper mine in the world. However, the most significant disruption came late in the year, when 800,000 metric tons (MT) of wet material poured into the primary Grasberg block cave (GBC) at Freeport-McMoRan’s (NYSE:FCX) Grasberg mine in Indonesia. The incident cost seven workers their lives and halted production across the operation.

      While the company plans to restart the Big Gossan and Deep Level zones before the end of 2025, a phased restart at the GBC won’t start until the middle of 2026, with full operations not resuming until 2027.

      Elsewhere, a seismic event at Ivanhoe Mines’ (TSX:IVN,OTCQX:IVPAF) Kamoa-Kakula mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in May caused flooding and forced the temporary suspension of mining activities. Although some underground operations have resumed, the company is focused on dewatering the lower portions of the mine.

      Since the incident, Ivanhoe has been processing stockpiled materials, but in an update on December 3, it suggested that those stores will be depleted during the first quarter of 2026. Subsequently, it has set its 2026 guidance at 380,000 to 420,000 MT before ramping back up to the 500,000 to 540,000 MT range in 2027.

      “Grasberg remains a significant disruption that will persist through 2026, and the situation is similar to constraints at Ivanhoe Mines’ Kamoa-kakula, which experienced output cuts this year,’ he said.

      ‘We believe these outages will keep the market in deficit in 2026.’

      Some relief on the copper supply side may come from the restart of operations at First Quantum Minerals’ (TSX:FM,OTC Pink:FQVLF) Cobre Panama mine. It was forced to shut down in November 2023 after Panama’s supreme court cancelled new 20 year mining contract signed in October 2023. This past Septembe, the Panamanian government ordered a review of the mining lease to restart operations at the site in late 2025 or early 2026.

      Similar to Grasberg, restarting mining operations may take some time to return to full production, causing a lag before material from the mine can ease undersupplied market conditions.

      Copper demand in 2026

      Copper demand is on the rise due to demand from the energy transition, artificial intelligence (AI) and the expansion of data centers, as well as the rapid urbanization of the Global South. However, in 2025, significant demand was also driven by US tariff concerns, as traders have worked to import refined material into the country.

      “A huge amount of this tightness has to do with US tariff concerns with refined copper inflows into the US having jumped MT over the year, putting inventory in the country to 750,000 MT,” she said.

      Scott-Gray pointed to a “perfect storm” brewing in 2025’s fourth quarter , including a warming outlook driven by easing China-US tensions, US interest rate cuts and China’s 15th five year plan, set to run from 2026 to 2031.

      Historically, one of the biggest demand drivers for copper has been the Chinese real estate sector; however, tighter regulations, high debt and low liquidity led to its collapse in 2021, even though the Chinese government has instituted several policies over the past several years to stimulate the sector, to no avail.

      According to Reuters, Chinese home prices are set to fall 3.7 percent in 2025, and are expected to decline into the new year as well. Despite these issues, the Chinese economy proved to be robust in 2025 and is expected to post growth of 4.9 percent in 2025 and 4.8 percent in 2026, fueled by high-tech exports.

      Additionally, the five-year plan outlays upgrades to the metals sector and growth in new energy.

      “Weakness in the property market is likely to continue in 2026, but the story for copper is constructive. Policy focus and capital are expected to prioritize expanding the electricity grid, upgrading manufacturing, renewables and AI-related data centers. These copper-intensive areas are set to more than compensate for a subdued property market, yielding net growth in China’s copper demand next year,” White said.

      Copper crunch keeps building

      “These things are taking years to fix — so let’s say it takes some of them a year to get fixed and back on track, some of them two years. We’re looking at 2027; by then, the copper demand side will have kicked up even more. My base case is actually for copper deficits to broaden in the next couple of years, then just continue broadening,” he said.

      The supply side is also facing headwinds as new operations haven’t come online to replace existing mines that are increasingly challenged by declining grades. While there is new supply in the pipeline, like Arizona Sonoran Copper Company’s (TSX:ASCU,OTCQX:ASCUF) brownfield Cactus project and the Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO,NYSE:RIO,LSE:RIO) and BHP joint venture Resolution project, both in Arizona, they’re still years away.

      “While new projects may add tonnage at the margin, demand growth is likely to outpace any supply additions, which points to further supply deficits that escalate over the coming years,” White said.

      A May 1 report by the UN Conference on Trade and Development notes that demand is expected to grow by 40 percent by 2040, requiring US$250 billion in investment capital and the construction of 80 new mines.

      The report stated that half of the world’s copper reserves are currently located in just five countries.

      Chile, Australia, Peru, the DRC and Russia, with structural challenges setting up that go beyond declining grades, most notably geopolitical risk and long mining times.

      The scale of the challenges was recently outlined in a report from Wood Mackenzie, which forecast demand increasing by 24 percent to 43 million MT per year by 2035. To balance the market, the report states that 8 million MT of new supply will be required, along with 3.5 million MT from scrap.

      Investor takeaway

      Overall, according to the International Copper Study Group’s (ICSG) most recent forecast, released on October 8, mine production is expected to increase 2.3 percent in 2026 to 23.86 million MT.

      However, refined production is only predicted to increase by 0.9 percent to 28.58 million MT.

      Regarding demand, the group stated that refined copper use is expected to grow by 2.1 percent to 28.73 million MT in 2026, outpacing production growth and leading to a 150,000 MT deficit by the end of the year.

      White is bullish on copper in 2026, citing low inventories and mine and concentrate deficits. He also suggested tariff threats may not be over, and that regional price differentials and high physical premiums are likely to continue.

      With copper deficits expected to accelerate in 2026, prices are set up to hit record highs. Scott-Gray said 2026 could see the average price climb to US$10,635 per MT, with higher prices likely to be off-putting to more price-sensitive buyers.

      Additionally, with long-term premiums near record highs, she said market players may look to make purchases on a “just-in-time” basis from alternative sources, such as bonded warehouses or directly from smelters.

      Depending on price and supply, consumers could also look to swap out copper for aluminum where practical, though Scott-Gray noted that the switch would have its own limitations.

      In data provided by Scott-Gray from StoneX’s Base Metal Front Desk Call, 40 percent of respondents to an LME Metals Poll believe that copper will be the best-performing base metal in 2026.

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

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