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Cadence Minerals #KDNC – Hastings Technology Metals & Estonian Government to Jointly Evaluate Downstream Processing Opportunities
Cadence Minerals (AIM/NEX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note the announcement by Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS) (“Hastings”) that it has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (“MoU”) with the Estonian Government’s investment agency, Ettevotluse ja Innovatsiooni Sihtasutus (“EIS”) to collaborate on a joint scoping study into the potential development of downstream rare earth processing capabilities in Estonia.
Following the release of the Staged Development Feasibility Study in May 2023, Hastings’ primary focus is the construction of the Yangibana Rare Earths Project’s (“Yangibana Project”) mine and beneficiation plant to produce a rare earth mineral concentrate for export to its offtake partners and enable a quicker pathway to early project cashflows.
In parallel, Hastings continues to assess the potential to capture more of the rare earth value chain through downstream processing of its concentrate to produce a mixed rare earth carbonate.
Highlights:
- Hastings and the Estonian Government – a European Union (“EU”) member country – will commence a joint study on a hydrometallurgical plant for downstream processing of rare earth concentrate as part of Stage 2 of the Yangibana Rare Earths Project
- Joint study builds on Hastings’ 21.15% investment in TSX-listed Neo Performance Materials Inc. which has an operating rare earth separation facility and a rare earth permanent magnet manufacturing plant under construction in Estonia
- Strategic alignment with the vision of Hastings, the Estonian Government and the EU to establish an integrated mine-to-magnet European supply chain, developing capabilities to provide strategic materials to European original equipment manufacturers for electric vehicle traction motors and renewable energy technologies
- Memorandum of Understanding with the Estonian Government’s investment agency Ettevotluse ja Innovatsiooni Sihtasutus outlines objectives including potential grants, funding, fiscal and tax incentives.
During the September quarter, Hastings completed early infrastructure works at the Yangibana Project, including the Kurrbili Accommodation Village, Yangibana Airstrip, access roads, production borefields, water pipelines and clearing and grubbing of the entire plant site.
Link here to view the full Hastings announcement
Hastings Executive Chairman Charles Lew commented: “Hastings is delighted to establish this partnership with the Estonian Government to evaluate downstream processing opportunities, as a natural extension of our ongoing work to maximise value from the Yangibana Rare Earths Project. This is also builds on our strategic investment into Neo Performance Materials to advance our vision of building a rare earth magnet supply chain for the European market, in line with the ongoing focus from European Union member states such as Germany to secure alternative sources for critical raw materials.”
EIS’s Head of Foreign Investment Department, Joonas Vanto, said: “We are pleased to welcome Hastings to conduct a feasibility study for the establishment of a hydrometallurgical plant in Estonia. The establishment of such a plant would help to further develop the value chain of permanent magnets and electrification that is already operating here and would support Estonia’s and the European Union’s ambition to achieve climate neutrality.”
Cadence shareholding in Hastings
On 25 January 2023, Cadence completed the sale of its 30% stake in several mineral concessions forming part of the Yangibana Rare Earths project for a consideration of 2.45 million Hastings shares. This consideration was a premium over the Net Present Value (“NPV”) of the Cadence portion of the mineable material, based on the definitive feasibility (“DFS”) updated by Hastings on 21 February 2022. Currently Cadence holds approximately 1% of Hastings issued share capital.
The full announcement concerning the Yangibana sale is available here.
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For further information contact:
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| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 20 3582 6636 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
| WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) | +44 (0) 20 7220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| Darshan Patel | |
| Fortified Securities – Joint Broker | +44 (0) 20 3411 7773 |
| Guy Wheatley | |
| Brand Communications | +44 (0) 7976 431608 |
| Public & Investor Relations | |
| Alan Green |
Cadence Minerals #KDNC – Corporate Update – Hastings Technology Metals
Cadence Minerals (AIM/NEX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note the announcement by Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS) (“Hastings”) and thyssenkrupp Materials Trading (“TMT”) to expand the terms of the offtake contract signed in April 2021 to align with Stage 1 development for the Yangibana Rare Earths Project.
Hastings has agreed with TMT to include up to two-thirds of Stage 1 rare earth concentrate from Hastings’ flagship Yangibana Rare Earths Project (“Yangibana” or the “Project”). The remaining one-third of production during the first five years not under TMT offtake is available to Hastings to maximise value through spot sales or other commercial arrangements.
Highlights:
- Hastings and TMT have agreed to expand the terms of the offtake contract signed in April 2021 to align with Stage 1 development for the Yangibana Rare Earths Project.
- TMT offtake expanded to rare earth concentrate under the Stage 1 development plan, in addition to Mixed Rare Earth Carbonate (“MREC”).
- TMT also commits to increasing its volume to two-thirds of Yangibana’s annual production volume for the first five years, commencing in Q2 2025.
All other terms and conditions of the contact signed with TMT on 20 April 2021 remains unchanged. The offtake terms will satisfy the Project’s debt financing and bankability requirements underpinning the optimal funding structure.
The expanded offtake is aligned with the two-stage development strategy for the Yangibana Project, as announced on 31 May 2023, supporting an enhanced project delivery model that enables a pathway to first concentrate production in 1H 2025 and early cash flows. Hastings’ Stage 2 development of a hydrometallurgy plant or via third party tolling of concentrate during Stage 1 will produce up to 15,000tpa of MREC containing ~3,400tpa of NdPr oxides.
thyssenkrupp Materials Services is the biggest mill-independent materials distributor and service provider in the Western world with around 380 locations, including around 260 warehouse sites, in more than 30 countries. The versatile range of services offered by the materials experts allows customers to focus even more strongly on their individual core businesses.
Link here to view the full Hastings announcement
Hastings Executive Chairman Charles Lew commented: “Building on our strong relationship with thyssenkrupp Materials Trading, we are pleased to have extended the terms of the offtake to increase the committed volume and include concentrate as well as MREC from Stage 1 of the Yangibana Project to meet bankability requirements.”
“We are at an advanced stage of finalising the optimal project debt finance and this commitment from thyssenkrupp reiterates the cooperative spirit in which we work with our long term partners to reach our objective of bringing Yangibana into production”.
Cadence shareholding in Hastings
On 25 January 2023, Cadence completed the sale of its 30% stake in several mineral concessions forming part of the Yangibana Rare Earths project for a consideration of 2.45 million Hastings shares. This consideration was a premium over the Net Present Value (“NPV”) of the Cadence portion of the mineable material, based on the definitive feasibility (“DFS”) updated by Hastings on 21 February 2022. Currently Cadence holds approximately 1.4% of Hastings issued share capital.
The full announcement concerning the Yangibana sale is available here.
| For further information contact:
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| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 20 3582 6636 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
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WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) |
+44 (0) 207 220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| Darshan Patel | |
| Brand Communications | +44 (0) 7976 431608 |
| Public & Investor Relations | |
| Alan Green
|
Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “believe”, “could”, “should”, “envisage”, “estimate”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “will”, or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding the company’s future growth results of operations performance, future capital, and other expenditures (including the amount, nature, and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions, competition, environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities, the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of the company. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. The company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements.
The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the company to constitute Inside Information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (E.U.) No. 596/2014, as it forms part of U.K. domestic law under the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended. Upon the publication of this announcement via a regulatory information service, this information is considered to be in the public domain
Cadence Minerals #KDNC – Corporate Update, Hastings Technology Metals
Cadence Minerals (AIM/NEX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note the announcement by Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS) (“Hastings”) that it has executed the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contract with West Australian company GR Engineering Services Limited (“GRES”) (ASX: GNG) for delivery of the Yangibana beneficiation plant and associated infrastructure.
The contract has no material departures from the binding terms sheet that both parties signed in May 2023, including the contract value of $210 million. It includes a process guarantee which aligns with the current planned ramp up of the beneficiation plant and supported by all process test work completed to date
Highlights:
- Long form EPC contract signed with GR Engineering Services (GRES) for delivery of the beneficiation plant and associated infrastructure for the Yangibana Rare Earths Project.
- Fixed price contract award for $210 million in line with the staged development strategy endorsed by the Board in May 2023:
- Fixed price component of $180 million for the beneficiation plant.
- Provisional component of $30 million mainly for the plant and TSF earthworks.
- EPC contract minimises risk of capital cost increases and provides guarantees on project schedule, product throughput and plant recovery.
- GRES continuing to work with Hastings on engineering and procurement under an early works agreement until mobilisation to site in Q4 2023 following satisfaction of conditions precedent including finalisation of project funding as standard for an EPC contract.
- Construction planned to be complete in Q1 2025 with first concentrate on truck in Q2 2025 Hastings
Link here to view the full Hastings announcement
Hastings Executive Chairman Charles Lew commented: “The signing of the EPC contract with GR Engineering for the delivery of the beneficiation plant at Yangibana is another important milestone in our development plan for bringing this world-class project into production. The fixed price contract and strong credentials of GR Engineering gives us a high level of confidence in the delivery of this critical infrastructure ahead of first rare earth concentrate production in Q2 2025.”
GR Engineering Services Managing Director, Mr Tony Patrizi, said: “GR Engineering is pleased to be working on this world-class rare earths project in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia. The fact that Hastings has recognised the high level of expertise and experience within the GRES process team and broader business is extremely satisfying. We look forward to engaging closely with the Hastings team to deliver safe and successful outcomes for this important project in the critical minerals sector.”
Cadence shareholding in Hastings
On 25 January 2023, Cadence completed the sale of its 30% stake in several mineral concessions forming part of the Yangibana Rare Earths project for a consideration of 2.45 million Hastings shares, equating to approximately 1.9% Hastings issued share capital. This consideration was a premium over the Net Present Value (“NPV”) of the Cadence portion of the mineable material, based on the definitive feasibility (“DFS”) updated by Hastings on 21 February 2022.
The full announcement concerning the Yangibana sale is available here.
| For further information contact:
|
|
| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 20 3582 6636 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
|
WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) |
+44 (0) 207 220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| Darshan Patel | |
| Brand Communications | +44 (0) 7976 431608 |
| Public & Investor Relations | |
| Alan Green
|
Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “believe”, “could”, “should”, “envisage”, “estimate”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “will”, or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding the company’s future growth results of operations performance, future capital, and other expenditures (including the amount, nature, and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions, competition, environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities, the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of the company. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. The company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements.
The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the company to constitute Inside Information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (E.U.) No. 596/2014, as it forms part of U.K. domestic law under the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended. Upon the publication of this announcement via a regulatory information service, this information is considered to be in the public domain.
Cadence Minerals #KDNC – Corporate Update – Hastings Technology Metals
Cadence Minerals (AIM/NEX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note the announcement by Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS) (“Hastings”) that it has introduced a staged development strategy to reduce delivery risk and enable faster pathway to cash flow for the Yangibana Rare Earths Project.
Highlights:
- Results of the project capital and delivery model review support a staged development strategy for the Yangibana Rare Earths Project
- This strategy will reduce upfront capital requirements and project execution risks as well as providing a faster pathway to cash flow by Q1 2025
- Initial focus will be on construction of the Yangibana mine and beneficiation plant to produce rare earths concentrate (Stage 1), followed by development of a hydrometallurgical plant to produce mixed rare earth carbonate (Stage 2)
- Total project capital cost is now estimated at $948m, with the Stage 1 component being $470m (a 40% increase to the estimate from 2020/21)
- Fixed price contracting model aims to minimise risk of further capital cost increases, demonstrated by the recent arrangement with GR Engineering for construction of the beneficiation plant
- Beneficiation plant construction to commence in Q3 CY2023, supporting Stage 1 concentrate delivery target date of Q1 CY2025
- Concentrate offtake discussions underway with rare earth oxides producers in Australia and offshore with a view to concluding firm contracts prior to drawdown of project finance debt in early 2024
- Potential for strong Stage 1 financial returns with post-tax NPV11 of $538m, an IRR of 27.54% and average annual EBITDA of $174m providing a funding source for Stage 2.
Link here to view the full Hastings announcement
Hastings Executive Chairman Charles Lew commented: “The Yangibana Rare Earths Project is one of the world’s most advanced greenfield rare earth projects and is well-timed to meet the forecast supply gap for magnet rare earth elements which are required to support the global transition to clean energy. A comprehensive project review undertaken by our new experienced management team has confirmed that this world-class project remains financially and operationally robust, with the investment in a Stage 1 mining and beneficiation plant being a compelling proposition. The implementation of a two-stage development strategy for Yangibana will lower the upfront capital funding requirements, reduce the project execution risk and enable a faster pathway to early project cash flows which can be used to fund Stage 2 plant construction.”
Cadence CEO Kiran Morzaria, commented: “The Cadence board remain enthusiastic shareholders and supporters of Hastings Technology Metals and the Yangibana Rare Earths project. We are pleased to see the project risks further reduced by the introduction of a two stage investment strategy, and we are excited by the prospects for commencement of the beneficiation plant construction within the next few months. I look forward to providing further updates.”
Cadence shareholding in Hastings
On 25 January 2023, Cadence completed the sale of its 30% stake in several mineral concessions forming part of the Yangibana Rare Earths project for a consideration of 2.45 million Hastings shares, equating to approximately 1.9% Hastings issued share capital. This consideration was a premium over the Net Present Value (“NPV”) of the Cadence portion of the mineable material, based on the definitive feasibility (“DFS”) updated by Hastings on 21 February 2022.
The full announcement concerning the Yangibana sale is available here.
| For further information contact:
|
|
| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 20 3582 6636 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
|
WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) |
+44 (0) 207 220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| Darshan Patel
Enzo Aliaj |
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| Brand Communications | +44 (0) 7976 431608 |
| Public & Investor Relations | |
| Alan Green
|
Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as “believe”, “could”, “should”, “envisage”, “estimate”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, “will”, or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding the company’s future growth results of operations performance, future capital, and other expenditures (including the amount, nature, and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements, including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions, competition, environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities, the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of the company. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. The company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements.
The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the company to constitute Inside Information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (E.U.) No. 596/2014, as it forms part of U.K. domestic law under the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended. Upon the publication of this announcement via a regulatory information service, this information is considered to be in the public domain.
Cadence Minerals #KDNC Agrees To Sell its Yangibana Joint Venture Interest to Hastings Technology Metals
Cadence Minerals (AIM/NEX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a binding agreement to sell its working interests in the Yangibana Rare Earths project (“Yangibana Project”) tenements to Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS) (“Hastings”). Cadence’s 30% interest in tenements covers a small portion of Yangibana and potentially represents one year of the 16-year mine life.
Highlights:
- Cadence has agreed to sell its 30% working interest in the Yangibana Project tenements to the operator and owner of the remainder of the Yangibana Project, Hastings, for A$9 million (£5.1 million)
- The sale is to be satisfied by the issue of fully paid ordinary Hastings shares
- This transaction provides Cadence with equity exposure to 100% of the Yangibana Project via its equity holding in Hastings.
- The NPV of the Yangibana Project is currently AS$ 1 billion
Background
The interests will be sold for A$9.0 million to be settled by the issue of fully paid ordinary shares in Hastings at a price to be determined based on 30 days VWAP before completion, which is set at six months from the date of signing of this agreement. The commercial terms are summarised below.
As a consequence of the acquisition, Cadence will become a shareholder of Hastings. Hastings is developing the Yangibana Project. The Yangibana Project is a significant Australian Rare Earths Project, containing substantial Neodymium and Praseodymium resources.
The Yangibana Project currently covers approximately 650 square kilometres containing some 9 Mining Leases, 2 Prospecting Licenses and 19 Exploration Licenses. Cadence holds a 30% interest in 3 Mining Leases and 6 Exploration licenses. These tenements contain 0.70 million tonnes of Ore Reserves, which can increase the expected mine life of the Yangibana Project by approximately one year to a total of 16 years.
Hastings has commence site construction and is planning to commence commissioning of the beneficiation plant in late 2023, with the delivery of maiden production to key customers in 2024.
In February of this year, Hastings published a revised NPV calculation, which increased the NPV by 84% to AS$ 1 billion. Hasting’s current market capitalisation is circa A$ 415 million. Also, in February, the Australian Government’s Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) approved a $140 million loan facility to Hastings and Yangibana, making it the first Australian rare earth project to receive NAIF funding. The Financial Times also commented on the story. The link can be found here: https://www.ft.com/content/552274c4-221a-49ac-91dd-562c51655e76
Cadence CEO Kiran Morzaria commented: “The sale of our 30% interest in a part of the Yangibana Rare Earths Project provides Cadence with an excellent return on its initial investment and equity exposure to the entire project. Yangibana’s importance as a key REE resource today cannot be overstated.”
We look forward to reporting on Hastings development and progress towards production as construction on the mine commences.”
Commercial Terms
The following represent the key binding commercial terms for Hastings to acquire the 30% working interest in certain tenements and general-purpose licences held by Cadence Minerals Plc through its subsidiary Mojito Resources Limited:
- Consideration – A$9 million to be settled by the issue of fully paid ordinary shares in Hastings Technology Metals Ltd (herein referred to as “Consideration Shares”).
- Issue price – equal to the volume-weighted average price (VWAP) of the Hastings shares in the 30 trading days before settlement.
- Escrow – the Consideration Shares will be subject to a voluntary escrow for up to 12 months from issue
- Conditions precedent limited to execution of documents to give effect to the binding term sheet, Hastings having issued and applied to the ASX for the quotation of the Considerations Shares and any necessary approvals being received.
- Settlement to occur five days after conditions precedent have been met.
- Conditions precedent to be completed within 180 days; otherwise, either party may terminate the binding term sheet.
- General representations, warranties and indemnities for an agreement of this nature.
The net loss attributable to our 30% holdings in the tenements for 31 December 2021 is nil. As such, the net loss attributable to the Company is also nil. As of 31 December 2021, the total carrying values of the tenements in the Company’s balance sheet was approximately £905,000. Based on the transaction announced, the initial profits on the sale of our interest is approximately £4.2 million.
As outlined above, the Consideration Shares will be subject to a voluntary escrow of up to 12 months from issue. During that time, the price of Hastings public equity may vary and result in either higher or lower profitability. After the lapse of the escrow arrangement, Cadence will retain or dispose of these shares as per our investment strategy, which is available here.
Q&A with Vox Markets
CEO Kiran Morzaria will be recording an investor presentation and Q&A with Vox Markets, which will be released on Friday, 1 July 2022.
Shareholders and investors are invited to submit their questions to Katrina Perez at Vox Markets via her email at kperez@voxmarkets.co.uk. The questions should arrive no later than 6 pm on Wednesday, 29 June 2022. Any that arrive after the deadline will not be included in the Q&A.
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For further information:
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Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as ”believe” ”could” “should” ”envisage” ”estimate” ”intend” ”may” ”plan” ”will” or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding the Company’s future growth results of operations performance future capital and other expenditures (including the amount. nature and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions competition environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. The Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements.
This announcement contains inside information for the purposes of Article 7 of the UK version of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 which is part of UK law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended (“MAR”). Upon the publication of this announcement via a Regulatory Information Service, this inside information is now considered to be in the public domain.
Cadence Minerals #KDNC – Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS), Yangibana Project NPV8 Increases 84% to A$1 billion (post tax).
Cadence Minerals (AIM/AQX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note that Hastings Technology Metals (ASX:HAS) (“Hastings”), Cadence’s joint venture partner at the Yangibana Rare Earth Project in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia (“Yangibana” “Yangibana Project”), has announced significant progress on, and improved project economics for the Yangibana Project. The updated project economics, based on a Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) completed by Hastings in 2017 and revised in late 2021, follows an extensive and comprehensive review period, extending over three years, which has sought to de-risk project execution, optimise the flowsheet and enhance project economics.
Highlights:
- Post-tax Net Present Value8 (“NPV8”) increases by 84% to $1,012 million.
- Post-tax Internal Rate of Return (“IRR”) of 26%.
- Life of Mine pre-tax Free Operating Cashflow increases by 71% to $4,376 million.
- Revised capital cost estimated at A$582 million (including contingency is $658 million)
- Project is ‘shovel-ready’ following a comprehensive review and assessment of current inflationary pressures present in Western Australia.
- Capital payback period forecast at 2.7 years from commencement of production.
- Production of 3,400tpa of NdPr Oxides capable of supplying up to 8% of forecast global NdPr demand.
- Discussions on funding options with suitable partners continue to progress.
- $20 million early works program to deliver the core site infrastructure at Yangibana is well underway
Key to this process was validating the capex required to bring Yangibana into operation considering the current inflationary environment and tightening labour market in Western Australia.
Following this review period, the management team now have a high degree of confidence in the quantum of capital required and are proceeding to finalise funding arrangements for Yangibana ahead of proposed commencement of plant construction activities forecast to commence in H2 2022. The $20 million early works program to deliver the core site infrastructure at Yangibana is underway with plant and personnel achieving good progress to date.
The full HAS release can be found at: https://www.investi.com.au/api/announcements/has/000839dd-0cd.pdf
Hastings Technology Metals’ Executive Chairman Charles Lew commented: “Today is a significant milestone for the Hastings team that is the result of an extensive amount of work carried out over a number of years. The updated project economics tell a story of a world-class rare earths project that will be capable not only of delivering up to 8% of global NdPr demand for a period of at least 15 years but generate significant, long-term value for all shareholders.”
“The Hastings team has done a tremendous job since 2017 to optimise and de-risk the Yangibana project, both technically and commercially, to make it an even more compelling investment proposition. Since its discovery in 2014, we were always confident in the quality of the rare earths resource endowment at Yangibana. As it turned out, the steady progress we have made over the years has converged with a strong global rare earths magnet market underpinned by the global energy transition and electric mobility. As the updated project economics demonstrate, Yangibana will be a financially and operationally robust, long-life project.”
“We are well advanced on discussions with a range of funding partners (in addition to NAIF) and are now focused on finalising the appropriate capital structure that best positions Hastings for success in bringing Yangibana into production by 2024. This includes undertaking a corporate transaction or seeking a joint venture partner(s).”
Relevance to Cadence Minerals Holdings in the Yangibana Project:
Cadence owns 30% of 3 Mining Leases, 6 Exploration Licences which form part of the Yangibana Rare Earth Deposit. Hastings Technology Metals owns the remaining 70% (“Hastings”). The current mining schedule indicates that the joint venture areas are scheduled to be mined in years 12 to 15 on the mine plan. Further details of our ownership the mineral resources and reserves on our jointly held leases can be found at:
https://www.cadenceminerals.com/projects/yangibana-rare-earth-project-2/
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For further information:
| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 7879 584153 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
| WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) | +44 (0) 207 220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| Darshan Patel | |
| Novum Securities Limited (Joint Broker) | +44 (0) 207 399 9400 |
| Jon Belliss |
Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as ”believe” ”could” “should” ”envisage” ”estimate” ”intend” ”may” ”plan” ”will” or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding Cadence Minerals Plc’s future growth results of operations performance future capital and other expenditures (including the amount. nature and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions competition environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of Cadence Minerals Plc. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. Cadence Minerals Plc cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements.
Cadence Minerals #KDNC – NAIF approves $140m loan for Hastings Technology Metals’ $HAS Yangibana Rare Earths Project
Cadence Minerals (AIM/AQX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note that Hastings Technology Metals (ASX:HAS) (“Hastings”), Cadence’s joint venture partner at the Yangibana Rare Earth Project in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia (“Yangibana” “Yangibana Project”), has announced that that it has received approvals for a significant portion of the debt package required to fund construction of the Yangibana Rare Earths Project, in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia.
Highlights:
- Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) approves $140 million loan facility with 12½-year tenor, subject to pre-completion conditions.
- NAIF loan is a critical component of the Yangibana Rare Earths Project funding strategy underpinning finalisation of remaining funding requirements.
- Yangibana is the first Australian rare earths project to receive NAIF funding.
- First drawdown expected to occur in early 2023, aligned to Yangibana funding schedule.
- NAIF loan forms part of A$300-400 million of total debt financing required for Yangibana.
- Yangibana early works construction and design for long-lead items underway in anticipation of plant construction commencing in September 2022 Quarter.
- Hastings is fostering a lower carbon future and renewable energy solutions through the Yangibana rare earths project
The Federal Government’s Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility (NAIF) has agreed to supply a A$140 million, 12½-year tenor loan facility for the development of Yangibana. The loan has been approved by the NAIF Board and endorsed by the Federal Minister for Northern Australia, the Honourable David Littleproud. The NAIF loan forms part of the A$300-400 million of total debt funding required for Yangibana and is aligned with Australia’s Critical Minerals Strategy and the Western Australian Government’s Future Battery Industry Strategy.
The Yangibana project, which comprises a mine and beneficiation plant at the Yangibana site and a hydrometallurgical plant at the Ashburton North Strategic Industrial Area (ANSIA) near Onslow, will become Australia’s second rare earths producer and expands the country’s strategic capability in downstream processing of rare earths minerals.
The Federal Government’s commitment to Yangibana comes at a significant inflexion point for the global rare earths sector amid a drive by rare earths magnet-end users to secure responsible and reliable sources of supply.
The full HAS release can be found at: https://www.investi.com.au/api/announcements/has/92de7fbd-5d2.pdf
The Financial Times also commented on the story. The link can be found here:
https://www.ft.com/content/552274c4-221a-49ac-91dd-562c51655e76
Hastings Technology Metals’ Executive Chairman Charles Lew commented: “Hastings is delighted to have received the Federal Government’s support, through the Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility, for the Yangibana rare earths project. This is the Commonwealth’s first project financing package for the construction of a rare earth mine and production plant in Australia and supports the rapid development worldwide of decarbonisation technologies in e-mobility and energy. In view of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) held in November 2021, Hastings is proud to be at the forefront of this significant global transition to a lower carbon future and aims to be a part of the global efforts towards sustainability.”
“The commitment by NAIF will enable Hastings to finalise the funding requirements for Yangibana’s development and move into full-scale construction throughout 2022, with the objective of delivering first production by 2024. Yangibana is an amazing rare earths opportunity that will supply the world’s highest composition neodymium and praseodymium concentrate to Tier 1 customers in Europe and Asia.”
“This is an exciting time not just for Hastings but for Australia’s emerging rare earths sector. We look forward to finalising the funding arrangements that will enable the Hastings Board to make a final investment decision in the coming months.”
Relevance to Cadence Minerals Holdings in the Yangibana Project:
Cadence owns 30% of 3 Mining Leases, 6 Exploration Licences which form part of the Yangibana Rare Earth Deposit. Hastings Technology Metals owns the remaining 70% (“Hastings”). The current mining schedule indicates that the joint venture areas are scheduled to be mined in years 12 to 15 on the mine plan. Further details of our ownership the mineral resources and reserves on our jointly held leases can be found at:
https://www.cadenceminerals.com/projects/yangibana-rare-earth-project-2/
– Ends –
For further information:
| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 7879 584153 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
| WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) | +44 (0) 207 220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| Darshan Patel | |
| Novum Securities Limited (Joint Broker) | +44 (0) 207 399 9400 |
| Jon Belliss |
Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as ”believe” ”could” “should” ”envisage” ”estimate” ”intend” ”may” ”plan” ”will” or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding Cadence Minerals Plc’s future growth results of operations performance future capital and other expenditures (including the amount. nature and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions competition environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of Cadence Minerals Plc. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. Cadence Minerals Plc cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements.
Cadence Minerals #KDNC – Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS) – Yangibana Drilling Confirms Significant Mineralisation Extension Now Up To 8km Long.
Cadence Minerals (AIM/NEX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note that Hastings Technology Metals (ASX:HAS) (“Hastings”), Cadence’s joint venture partner at the Yangibana Rare Earth Project in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia (“Yangibana” “Yangibana Project”), has announced further significant results for the Simon’s Find deposit as part of the 2020 exploration drilling program for the Yangibana Rare Earths Project in Western Australia.
Cadence Minerals Yangibana Holding:
Cadence owns 30% of 3 Mining Leases, 6 Exploration Licences, which form part of the Yangibana Rare Earth Deposit. Hastings Technology Metals owns the remaining 70%. While the announcement today involves territory not covered by the JV license areas, the developments are nonetheless positive indicators for the future of the joint venture. Further details of our ownership the mineral resources and reserves on our jointly held leases can be found at:
https://www.cadenceminerals.com/projects/yangibana-rare-earth-project-2/
The current mine plan anticipates production to start from our joint venture areas (Yangibana and Yangibana North) in year 6 and continue to the end of mine life (year 13). Further details can be found in the Hastings 2019 Annual Report.
Highlights:
- Results from drilling at Simon’s Find confirm a major 2km long zone of economic mineralisation, significantly expanding the existing resource base across the Yangibana Rare Earths Project.
- Simon’s Find and the recently announced Fraser’s North and South drill results form a continuous zone of economic mineralisation 4km long.
- The Fraser’s – Simon’s Find – Bald Hill trend now forms an 8km-long economic mineralised corridor.
- Simon’s Find results contain world-beating quantities of neodymium (Nd2O3) and praseodymium (Pr6O11) that, when combined, total 52% of the TREO (total rare earth oxides) values. These results are significantly higher than the 40-41% values recorded from the nearby Bald Hill and Frasers deposits.
- High-grade and shallow intersections from Simon’s Find include:
- 2m @ 2.78% TREO from 46m
- 6m @ 1.20% TREO from 43m
- including 4m @ 1.61% TREO
- 4m @ 1.21% TREO from 46m
- 15m @ 0.72% TREO from 37m
- including 6m @ 1.11% TREO
- 2m @ 1.38% TREO from 67m
- 7m @ 0.89% TREO from 31m
- including 2m @ 1.76% TREO
- 3m @ 1.40% TREO from 11m
- 6m @ 0.75% TREO from 39m
- including 2m @ 1.51% TREO
- 83 out of 96 holes (~86%) reported significant intercepts of grades
Simon’s Find – Major Mineralised Trend Defined
Hastings can now report that it has successfully delineated, as a minimum, approximately 2km of economic mineralisation, forming the Simon’s Find resource area through the completion of close-spaced reverse circulation (RC) drilling.
Recent drilling to target ironstone rocks hosting rare earths has returned consistent grades and widths of mineralisation over a 2km-long zone, which remains open along strike and down dip. Results have also confirmed that Simon’s Find includes exceptionally high quantities of neodymium and praseodymium, widely recognised as the two most important rare earths elements required over the next decades to satisfy global demand for electric vehicles, renewable energy projects and industrial automation.
From the results underlying this announcement for Simon’s Find, neodymium and praseodymium (together, “NdPr”) represent approximately 52% of the total rare earths content. This is at least 25% higher than existing results from the nearby Bald Hill and Frasers deposits, which have a NdPr:TREO ratio of approximately 40-41% of total rare earths.
A 40-41% ratio is widely acknowledged as world leading when compared to other known rare earths deposits, which typically report ratios in the 15-25% range. The 52% recorded at Simon’s Find confirms the special and unique geological properties of Yangibana and further underpins Hastings’ accelerated march to becoming Australia’s next rare earths producer.
These new results are expected to substantially add to the 20.86Mt mineral resource1 (see ASX announcement dated 25 February 2020) already confirmed at Yangibana, with a new mineral resource and mining reserve estimate expected to be completed over the coming months.
Simon’s Find is located in close proximity to the site of Yangibana’s proposed processing plant. The nature of Simon’s Find’s softer geological host rocks means this deposit is expected to play an important role during the production start-up phase of Yangibana.
Frasers – Simon’s Find Trend
Drill results released during the year have confirmed that Simon’s Find forms the northern portion of a defined and continuous 4km-long zone of economic mineralisation when including the recently released Fraser’s South and Fraser’s North drilling results.
Frasers – Simon’s Find – Bald Hill Trend
Hastings has now defined a single, largely coherent zone of mineralisation commencing at Fraser’s South and finishing at Bald Hill (the largest of Yangibana’s rare earths deposits) that is approximately 8km in length.
Substantial potential exists for continued exploration throughout this zone, which has demonstrated significant capacity to host rare earths, while opening up enormous opportunities for mineral resource expansions and extensions to Yangibana’s mine life within close proximity of the processing plant location.
This zone has been lightly drilled and, on average, only between 40-70m below the surface. Additional opportunities to the north and south of this trend have been identified by geophysics and ground mapping. Down-dip extensions remain open along the entire 8km of defined mineralisation.
Exploring and delineating the mineralisation in this zone was a key objective of the 2020 exploration drilling program, which has been successfully delivered.
In fact, the 2020 exploration drilling program has been so successful that the vast majority of holes reported to date have delivered intercepts of TREO considered to be economic by the Company.
The full HAS release including detailed tables and graphics can be found at: https://www.investi.com.au/api/announcements/has/986a8ebc-c66.pdf
Hastings Executive Chairman, Charles Lew commented: “Hastings has delivered and exceeded all of its key objectives for the 2020 exploration drilling program. The results from drilling over the past several months have shown the magnitude of the resource potential that exists at Yangibana.”
“Hastings has now defined and delivered a single coherent zone of economic mineralisation trending more than 8km in length from Fraser’s through to Simon’s Find and Bald Hill, with further upside in all areas along this zone to the north, south and at depth.”
“Additionally, the ability to replicate the results from the past few months into other areas of the tenement package remains high, with similar known geological structures demanding additional work.”
“While the average head grades at Simon’s Find results may be lower than at Yangibana’s other deposits, what is important and makes this deposit such a stand-out – in global terms – are the very high levels of neodymium and praseodymium – at 52% of total rare earths reported.”
“Hastings will now start the process of collating the drilling information to define a new mineral resource for Simon’s Find.
“The success at Simon’s Find comes amid a busy period for Hastings as we advance Yangibana’s development by concluding more offtake contracts and settling on a coastal site for our project’s hydrometallurgical plant.”
Cadence Minerals CEO Kiran Morzaria commented: “As Hastings Chairman Charles Lew says, the results from drilling over the past several months have shown the magnitude of the resource potential that exists at Yangibana, and in particular the very high levels of neodymium and praseodymium reported from Simon’s Find.”
“Although the announcement today involves territory not covered by the JV license areas, the developments are nonetheless positive indicators for the future of the joint venture and provides additional validation for our investment strategy into this project. We look forward to further developments.”
– Ends –
For further information:
| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 7879 584153 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
| WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) | +44 (0) 207 220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| James Sinclair-Ford | |
| Novum Securities Limited (Joint Broker) | +44 (0) 207 399 9400 |
| Jon Belliss |
Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as ‘‘believe’’ ‘‘could’’ “should” ‘‘envisage’’ ‘‘estimate’’ ‘‘intend’’ ‘‘may’’ ‘‘plan’’ ‘‘will’’ or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding the Company’s future growth results of operations performance future capital and other expenditures (including the amount. nature and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions competition environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. The Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-lookingstatements.
Cadence Minerals #KDNC – Hastings Technology Metals (ASX: HAS) oversubscribed placement raises $14.6m, plus a further $6.1m will be raised.
Cadence Minerals (AIM/NEX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note that Hastings Technology Metals (ASX:HAS) (“Hastings”), Cadence’s joint venture partner at the Yangibana Rare Earth Project in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia (“Yangibana” “Yangibana Project”), has received firm commitments to raise $14.6 million (before costs) at $0.125 per share (Placement). An additional $3.1 million will also be raised via a Conditional Placement and a further $3.0 million will be raised from a fully underwritten Share Purchase Plan (SPP).
Strong interest has been received from existing shareholders and new institutional and sophisticated investors, resulting in a significantly over subscribed Placement. Hastings Executive Chairman, Mr Charles Lew, will participate in the raise for an amount of $0.5 million, subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting in November 2020. Total funds raised under the Placement, SPP and Conditional Placement are expected to total approximately $20.7 million.
Funds raised will be used to:
· Procure equipment arising from the decoupling of the beneficiation plant and the hydrometallurgy plant;
· Further engineering design;
· Grade and resource drilling to increase mining reserves;
· Mine site works;
· Working capital.
The full HAS release can be found at: https://www.asx.com.au/asxpdf/20200826/pdf/44lxkj9nw2b91q.pdf
Hastings Executive Chairman, Charles Lew said: “It is gratifying to see the strong interest from new investors in the Hastings story and testament to the hard work done by the Company’s management team in recent months to advance our world-class Yangibana rare earths project from a technical, financial, regulatory and customer point of view. I welcome the new investors onto the Hastings register and look forward to offering the same terms to our existing loyal shareholder base through the SPP and Conditional Placement. The funds from the capital raising will enable us to continue to drive the Yangibana rare earths project forward alongside our target to begin construction next year.”
Cadence CEO Kiran Morzaria commented: “We are pleased to note that strong interest in Hastings Technology Metals and the Yangibana project has resulted in an oversubscribed placing. These funds, along with the prospect of commencement of mine construction next year provide a positive read-over into the value and future potential of our joint venture with Hastings. We look forward to further developments.”
Cadence Minerals Yangibana Holding:
Cadence owns 30% of 3 Mining Leases, 6 Exploration Licences which form part of the Yangibana Rare Earth Deposit. Hastings Technology Metals owns the remaining 70% (“Hastings”). Further details of our ownership the mineral resources and reserves on our jointly held leases can be found at:
https://www.cadenceminerals.com/projects/yangibana-rare-earth-project-2/
The current mine plan anticipates production to start from our joint venture areas (Yangibana and Yangibana North) in year 6 and continue to the end of mine life (year 13). Further details can be found in the Hastings 2019 Annual Report
– Ends –
For further information:
| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 7879 584153 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
| WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) | +44 (0) 207 220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| James Sinclair-Ford | |
| Novum Securities Limited (Joint Broker) | +44 (0) 207 399 9400 |
| Jon Belliss |
Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as ‘‘believe’’ ‘‘could’’ “should” ‘‘envisage’’ ‘‘estimate’’ ‘‘intend’’ ‘‘may’’ ‘‘plan’’ ‘‘will’’ or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding the Company’s future growth results of operations performance future capital and other expenditures (including the amount. nature and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions competition environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. The Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements.
Cadence Minerals #KDNC – Hastings Technology Metals (ASX-HAS) – Yangibana Project Capital Cost Estimate Reduced by A$68m or 13%
Cadence Minerals (AIM/NEX: KDNC; OTC: KDNCY) is pleased to note that, further to the Hydromet Plant relocation announcement, Hastings Technology Metals (ASX:HAS) (“Hastings”), Cadence’s joint venture partner at the Yangibana Rare Earth Project in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia (“Yangibana” “Yangibana Project”), has updated its Capital expenditure requirements previously estimated at approximately AUD$517m (ASX Investor Presentation 2 December 2019), which included a 114km gas pipeline and 14Mw gas fired power station.
Highlights:
- Total CAPEX revised to A$449m from A$517m
- $68m or 13% reduction in CAPEX based on Hydrometallurgical Plant relocation;
o $79m saving by removal gas pipeline and 3rd party power offtake for Yangibana
o $8m saving in Accommodation facility, Airstrip, Road access and Process building construction
o $1m saving in Tailings Storage Facility construction
o $3m saving in mining pre-strip volume reduction
o $14m addition in Process Plant equipment and additional storage/handling facilities for relocated Hydrometallurgical Plant
o $8m addition for indirect (EPCM) related costs
- New CAPEX leverages heavily to accessible services in the Pilbara with available gas, power, water and telecommunications.
- CAPEX reduction is major step towards achieving Hastings objective of becoming a significant new mid-tier Australian NdPr rare earth producer, positioned to take advantage of the strong market outlook.
- Capital cost reduction strategies are being advanced with possibilities of additional savings in final costing which will be presented during 4Q 2020.
Capital estimates have been revised based on the recently announced decoupling and relocation of the Hydrometallurgical plant to the Pilbara Region.
The revised capital estimate is now approximately $449m (exclusive of contingencies), being $68m or 13% lower than that previously announced.
The overall project capital cost estimate was developed by DRA Global and Hastings technical personnel based on an Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Management (EPCM) approach for the process plant and infrastructure. The estimate includes all the necessary costs associated with engineering, drafting, procurement, construction, construction management, commissioning of the processing facility and associated infrastructure, mining infrastructure, first fills of plant reagents, consumables and spare parts
Estimate Structure
The estimate is based upon preliminary engineering, material take-offs and budget price quotations for major equipment and bulk commodities. Unit rates for installation were based on market enquiries specific to the material requirements planning (MRP).
The estimate pricing was obtained predominantly during quarter one 2019 (1Q19) and is in Australian dollars (A$), with new and updated pricing being included from quarter one 2020 (1Q20) and quarter two 2020 (2Q20) for those items which have been altered due to the Hydrometallurgical plant relocation. The overall capital estimate has an estimated accuracy of ±15 to 20%. This will be refined over the next few months prior to a final cost estimate release during 4Q 2020.
The capital estimate was prepared using a project Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), which delineates the various areas of the project. Individual estimates were prepared for each area covering all engineering disciplines. The capital estimate has been structured into the following major categories:
- Direct costs;
- Indirect costs;
- Owner’s Costs; and
- Contingency.
The full HAS release including detailed capital comparisons can be found at: https://www.asx.com.au/asxpdf/20200729/pdf/44kyjnpw4ljpd0.pdf
Charles Lew, Hastings Executive Chairman, said: “This new CAPEX clearly demonstrates the robust nature of the Yangibana Project and the options that it presents. Significant optimisations in project construction capital, mining and processing are starting to show the true value of the Yangibana Project to Hastings and its shareholders. We will now push ahead with re-defining operational costs to reflect the capital changes taking place and to delivering the final results to the market shortly and getting on with the job of building the project as quickly as we can. Lenders are encouraged by the Capex reduction during this challenging period for debt and equity capital market currently affecting small companies and greenfield projects.”
Cadence Minerals CEO Kiran Morzaria commented: “Securing a 13% reduction in CAPEX costs at this relatively advanced stage is a testament to the value, opportunities and potential on offer at Yangibana, and provides additional validation for our investment into this project. We look forward to further developments.”
Cadence Minerals Yangibana Holding:
Cadence owns 30% of 3 Mining Leases, 6 Exploration Licences which form part of the Yangibana Rare Earth Deposit. Hastings Technology Metals owns the remaining 70% (“Hastings”). Further details of our ownership the mineral resources and reserves on our jointly held leases can be found at:
https://www.cadenceminerals.com/projects/yangibana-rare-earth-project-2/
The current mine plan anticipates production to start from our joint venture areas (Yangibana and Yangibana North) in year 6 and continue to the end of mine life (year 13). Further details can be found in the Hastings 2019 Annual Report
– Ends –
For further information:
| Cadence Minerals plc | +44 (0) 7879 584153 |
| Andrew Suckling | |
| Kiran Morzaria | |
| WH Ireland Limited (NOMAD & Broker) | +44 (0) 207 220 1666 |
| James Joyce | |
| James Sinclair-Ford | |
| Novum Securities Limited (Joint Broker) | +44 (0) 207 399 9400 |
| Jon Belliss |
Qualified Person
Kiran Morzaria B.Eng. (ACSM), MBA, has reviewed and approved the information contained in this announcement. Kiran holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Geology) from the Camborne School of Mines and an MBA (Finance) from CASS Business School.
Forward-Looking Statements:
Certain statements in this announcement are or may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as ‘‘believe’’ ‘‘could’’ “should” ‘‘envisage’’ ‘‘estimate’’ ‘‘intend’’ ‘‘may’’ ‘‘plan’’ ‘‘will’’ or the negative of those variations or comparable expressions including references to assumptions. These forward-looking statements are not based on historical facts but rather on the Directors’ current expectations and assumptions regarding the Company’s future growth results of operations performance future capital and other expenditures (including the amount. nature and sources of funding thereof) competitive advantages business prospects and opportunities. Such forward-looking statements reflect the Directors’ current beliefs and assumptions and are based on information currently available to the Directors. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements including risks associated with vulnerability to general economic and business conditions competition environmental and other regulatory changes actions by governmental authorities the availability of capital markets reliance on key personnel uninsured and underinsured losses and other factors many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Although any forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are based upon what the Directors believe to be reasonable assumptions. The Company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements.