Author: TSX Stocks

Publicly traded Bitcoin ecosystem company Matador Technologies plans to acquire up to 6,000 Bitcoin by 2027 under a board-approved treasury strategy.

In a recent press release, Matador Technologies confirmed that its board has approved a long-term plan to scale its Bitcoin holdings significantly. As part of this strategy, the company has set an interim target of holding 1,000 BTC by the end of 2026. 

Matador currently holds 77.4 BTC, and its goal here is to accumulate 1% of Bitcoin’s total supply, thereby positioning itself among the top 20 corporate holders globally.

To support this strategy, Matador has filed a preliminary CAD $900 million base shelf prospectus with Canadian securities regulators. If fully utilised and market prices remain stable, this funding could allow the company to acquire close to 6,000 BTC.

However, the firm clarified that this target is illustrative and dependent on prevailing market conditions, regulatory approvals, and investor interest.

Funding for the accumulation will come from multiple sources. These include at-the-market equity offerings, convertible financings, the sale of non-core assets, Bitcoin-backed credit facilities, and potential acquisitions or partnerships. 

Matador will evaluate each Bitcoin purchase based on price, timing, and capital impact, with a focus on maximising Bitcoin per share, the release added.

“Our future plans to accumulate Bitcoin are designed to establish long-term stability on our balance sheet while reducing exposure to inflationary risk. Execution is subject to financing, market conditions, and regulatory approval,” Matador’s Chief Visionary Officer, Mark Moss, was quoted as saying.

The company’s broader Bitcoin strategy is structured around a self-reinforcing “compounding flywheel.” 

It involves four components: accumulating Bitcoin, generating treasury yields through volatility-based mechanisms and synthetic mining, launching Bitcoin-denominated financial products, and investing in ecosystem partners across infrastructure and DeFi sectors.

Matador’s leadership believes this approach can provide both long-term financial stability and exposure to Bitcoin’s upside.

Headquartered in Canada, Matador Technologies operates as a publicly traded Bitcoin-focused company across multiple markets. 

Its shares are listed on the TSX Venture Exchange under “MATA,” the OTCQB under “MATAF,” and since June 2025, on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the ticker “IU3.”

The Canadian blockchain and Bitcoin technology firm recently expanded into India through a minority investment in HODL Systems, one of the country’s first digital asset treasury companies. The firm secured up to a 24% ownership stake, marking a strategic entry into a region where corporate Bitcoin adoption is gaining traction.

With the new treasury roadmap in place, Matador joins a growing list of public companies embracing multi-year Bitcoin accumulation strategies. Every day, public firms all across the globe are turning to Bitcoin as a reserve asset in response to inflation concerns and monetary debasement.

Several other companies have laid out similar multi-year Bitcoin accumulation strategies. 

U.S.-based med tech company Semler Scientific, for instance, is planning to acquire roughly 105,000 BTC by the end of 2027. The firm has hired a director of Bitcoin strategy and plans to fund purchases through a mix of equity, debt, and operational cash flow.

Tokyo-listed Metaplanet has also moved aggressively. It has already surpassed its 2025 target of holding 10,000 BTC and is now progressing toward its goal of accumulating 210,000 BTC by the end of 2027.

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 17, 2025 / Pathfinder Ventures Inc. (TSXV:RV) (“Pathfinder” or the “Company”), a leading provider of modern RV and lifestyle communities across British Columbia, is pleased to announce a strategic reorganization of its operations aimed at creating a leaner, more efficient business model as the Company prepares for its next stage of growth.

As part of this reorganization, Pathfinder is streamlining roles and responsibilities across the organization. The Company announces that Stan Duckworth, who has served as Chief Operating Officer, will be stepping away from the Company effective September 12, 2025. Pathfinder extends its thanks to Stan for his leadership and contributions during his time with the Company.

Pathfinder has completed the promotion of Rishu Gaind to Chief Financial Officer, reinforcing its leadership team with strong financial expertise. In addition, the Company has initiated a park-level restructuring that aims to reduced expenses while maintaining the high-quality guest experience the Pathfinder brand is known for. These initiatives have already resulted in improved operational efficiencies.

Update on the Acquisition of Westside Modular Home Park

Pathfinder is also pleased to provide an update on its previously announced acquisition of Westside Modular Home Park, a forward-thinking development focused on delivering a high-quality, community-oriented lifestyle through modern modular homes.

The transaction is advancing, and the Company continues to make steady progress toward closing. This acquisition aligns with Pathfinder’s broader strategy of expanding its footprint in the growing modular and lifestyle housing sector.

Further updates will be provided as key milestones are achieved. Pathfinder remains committed to its long-term vision of building a scalable, sustainable network of MHC and RV communities that generate long-term value for guests and stakeholders alike.

About Pathfinder Ventures Inc. (TSXV: RV):

Pathfinder Ventures Inc. aims to be the premier provider of RV resorts and manufactured housing communities, recognized for delivering exceptional guest experiences and innovative housing solutions. We are dedicated to creating welcoming, well-maintained, and modern spaces that bring people together, whether for travel or housing. Through a commitment to hospitality excellence, sustainable practices, and innovative solutions, we strive to enhance the lives of our guests, residents, and communities.

On behalf of the board of directors of the Corporation:

Joe Bleackley

Chief Executive Officer, Founder and Director

Pathfinder Ventures Inc.

Company Contact:

Joe Bleackley

Chief Executive Officer, and Director

Phone: (604) 914 2575

Email: ir@PathfinderVentures.ca

Websites: PathfinderVentures.ca || PathfinderCampResorts.com

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

This news release may include certain “forward-looking statements” which are not comprised of historical facts. Forward-looking statements include statements and estimates that describe the Company’s future plans, objectives or goals, including words to the effect that the Company or its management expects a stated condition or result to occur. Forward-looking statements may be identified by such terms as “will”, “may”, “should”, “could”, “would”, “plans”, “estimates”, “anticipates”, “expects”, “believes” and other similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. 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 such statements will ultimately prove to be accurate and that actual results and future events will meet management’s expectations. Risks, uncertainties and other factors involved with forward-looking statements could cause actual events, results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release may include, but is not limited to, the Company’s objectives, goals or future plans, including funding and refinancing. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, the ability of the Company to successfully implement its development strategy and whether this will yield the expected benefits; competitive factors in RV’s industry sector; the success or failure of product development programs; currently existing applicable laws and regulations or future applicable laws and regulations that may affect the Company’ s business; decisions of regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; Covid-19 related risks, availability of properties for acquisition and/or development; the economic circumstances surrounding the Company’s business, including general economic conditions in Canada, the US and worldwide; changes in exchange rates; changes in the equity market; inflation; uncertainties relating to the availability and costs of financing needed in the future; and those other risks disclosed in the filing statement and other disclosure document prepared and supplied on SEDAR. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and factors used in preparing the forward-looking statements in this news release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on such information. Any forward-looking statement is made as of the date of this news release, and no assurance can be given that any such conditions or events will occur in the indicated time frames, as expected or at all. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required by law.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the 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.

SOURCE: Pathfinder Ventures Inc.

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AngloGold Ashanti Plc has agreed to acquire all outstanding shares of Canada’s Augusta Gold Corp. for C$1.70 per share in cash, valuing the transaction at approximately C$152 million (US$111 million).

The deal, announced July 16, 2025, represents a 28% premium to Augusta Gold’s closing price on the Toronto Stock Exchange the prior trading day.

The acquisition grants AngloGold Ashanti control of Augusta’s Reward and Bullfrog projects in Nevada’s Beatty District, adjacent to its existing claims. According to the company, this consolidation will enable integrated development of the region through shared infrastructure and streamlined stakeholder engagement.

Augusta Gold’s board unanimously approved the transaction, with shareholders representing approximately 31.5% of outstanding shares committing voting support. Closing is anticipated in Q4 2025, pending shareholder approval and regulatory clearances. Post-acquisition, Augusta Gold will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold Ashanti and delist from public exchanges.

AngloGold Ashanti, listed on the Ghana Stock Exchange (GSE) under ticker AGA, highlighted the strategic importance of securing assets in a “prolific North American gold district.” The company engaged RBC Capital Markets as financial adviser, with legal counsel from Womble Bond Dickinson and Cravath Swaine & Moore.

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / July 16, 2025 / Star Copper Corp. (CSE:STCU)(OTCQX:STCUF)(FWB:SOP) (“Star Copper” or the “Company”), a critical mineral exploration and development company, is pleasedto announce that it has entered into a definitive agreement (the “Agreement”) to acquire (the “Acquisition”) a 100% interest in the Copperline Property (“Copperline”, the “Property” or the “CopperlineProperty”), located in north-central British Columbia.

“The Copperline Property is an exciting addition to our growing portfolio of high-grade copper assets in British Columbia,” stated Darryl Jones, CEO of Star Copper Corp. “With its compelling geology, strong infrastructure access, and historical grades, Copperline represents an exceptional grassroots copper-silver opportunity in a proven metallogenic belt.”

The Copperline Property consists of eight mineral claims totaling approximately 4,502 hectares, situated near Skutsil Knob at the south end of the Driftwood Range, approximately 120 km north-northeast of Smithers, British Columbia (Figure 1).

Under the Agreement, the Company has agreed to acquire Copperline in exchange for (i) cash, (ii) common shares of the Company (“Common Shares”), (iii) the grant of the Net Smelter Royalty (as defined below), and (iv) a Bonus payment (as defined below), subject to certain conditions.

Highlights

• High-Grade Copper-Silver Showings: Drilling, and surface sampling have returned intervals including 25.0 m of 2.54% Cu, 50.4 g/t Ag (DR-9)2, 3.7 m of 2.5% Cu, 76.6 g/t Ag (CL-16)3, and grab samples up to 8.51% Cu and 200 g/t Ag5.

• Favourable Geology: Mineralization comprises fine-grained bornite, chalcocite, tetrahedrite, and chalcopyrite within subaerial Telkwa volcanics, consistent with volcanic redbed copper deposit models4.

• Strong Infrastructure & Access: Located within 5 km of logging roads and 11 km from the BC Rail Dease Lake extension5(Figure 1).

• Exploration Upside: In 2003 several new zones of mineralization were discovered, including the West Zone and Dave’s Zone. Grab samples from the West Zone averaged 2.8% Cu and 71 g/t Ag, while a sample from Dave’s Zone returned 0.17% Cu and 229 g/t Ag3. Mineralized zones and interpreted structural controls suggest the potential for stacked lenses. Multiple “rusty zones” were identified during prospecting northeast of the “main zone” offering potential for new mineralized zones to be discovered.

• The Company plans to compile data and create the first 3D model of the Copperline system to plan for the first exploration program.

Figure 1: Map illustrating the regional location of the Copperline Project (After Prosper Gold).

Property Overview

The Copperline Property consists of eight mineral claims totaling approximately 4,502 hectares, located in north-central British Columbia near Skutsil Knob at the southern end of the Driftwood Range. The Property lies roughly 120 km north-northeast of Smithers and benefits from excellent regional infrastructure, including proximity to logging roads (within 5 km), the BC Rail Dease Lake extension (11 km), and hydroelectric potential via the nearby Kotsine River. The Property is accessible by road to within 5 km of the main mineralized zone, allowing for efficient mobilization of exploration crews and equipment.

Geologically, the Copperline Property is underlain by subaerial volcanic rocks of the Lower Jurassic Telkwa Formation, part of the Hazelton Group. These rocks include andesitic to basaltic flows, breccias, and volcaniclastics, locally interbedded with sedimentary units such as redbeds and siltstones. The stratigraphy dips gently to the east and is structurally disrupted by north-northwest trending fault zones and fracture corridors, which are interpreted to control copper-silver mineralization.

Copper-silver mineralization on the Property is characteristic of volcanic redbed copper systems and consists of disseminated and vein-controlled sulphides, including bornite, chalcocite, chalcopyrite, and tetrahedrite. Mineralization is typically hosted within massive volcanic units and associated with secondary structures such as shears, fractures, and bedding-parallel veins. Key alteration assemblages include epidote, chlorite, calcite, hematite, and silica, with “rusty zones” and green alteration halos acting as reliable visual pathfinders in outcrop and float.

Historical exploration dates back to the 1930s, with trenching by Cominco followed by diamond drilling in the 1970s by Craigmont Mines Ltd., and further work by Kit Resources Ltd. in the early 2000s.

Key Historical Drilling Results include:

Craigmont Mines Ltd. (1973-1974)*

*Drilling data compiled from Craigmont Mines in ARIS 27276

Kit Resources Ltd. (2003)

In 2003, Kit Resources also discovered additional zones of mineralization northeast of the Main Zone, including the West Zone and Dave’s Zone. The West Zone returned average grab values of 2.82% Cu and 71.44 g/t Ag, while Dave’s Zone produced a grab sample grading 0.17% Cu and 229 g/t Ag, highlighting the potential for multiple stacked lenses or structurally controlled zones across the broader Property area3.

Star Copper plans to compile legacy data, create a 3D geological model, and execute a staged exploration program that includes surface mapping, geophysics (IP and magnetics), and diamond drilling focused on both Main Zone extensions and new target areas.

National Instrument 43-101 Disclosure

Nicholas Rodway, P.Geo., (EGBC Licence# 46541) (Permit to Practice# 100359), is an independent contractor to the Company and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. Mr. Rodway has reviewed and approved the technical content in this release.

Acquisition Terms

The Company entered into the Agreement with Zimtu Capital Corp. (TSXV: ZC) (the “Vendor”) on July 14, 2025; Zimtu is not a “Related Person” of the Company, as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange (“CSE”). Pursuant to the Agreement, the Company has agreed to acquire Copperline from the Vendor in consideration for:

• cash payments in the aggregate amount of $350,000, consisting of (i) a payment of $100,000 on the date the Acquisition is completed (the “Closing Date”), and (ii) a payment of $250,000 on the first business day that is six (6) months after the Closing Date (the “Completion Date”);

• the issuance of 500,000 Common Shares (the “Consideration Shares”), with (i) 200,000 Consideration Shares to be issued on the Closing Date, and (ii) 300,000 Consideration Shares to be issued on the Completion Date; and

• the grant by the Company to the Vendor of a 2% net smelter returns royalty, payable on all production from the Copperline Property, of which 1% will be eligible for repurchase by the Company at any time within five (5) years of the Closing Date for a one-time payment of $1,000,000 (the “Net Smelter Royalty”).

In addition to the foregoing, if the Company publishes a mineral resource estimate prepared in accordance with Form 43-101F1 of NI 43-101 in respect of the Copperline Property (the “Resource Estimate”) disclosing any combination of measured, indicated or inferred mineral resources in excess of either (i) 500,000,000 pounds of copper, or (ii) 15,000,000 ounces of silver, then the Company will pay the Vendor an additional amount of $1,500,000 (the “Bonus”), consisting of:

• a cash payment in the amount of $750,000; and

• the issuance of that number of Common Shares having an aggregate value equal to $750,000 (the “Bonus Shares”), at a deemed issue price per Bonus Share equal to the ten (10) day volume weighted average of the Common Shares on the CSE, or such other stock exchange on which the Common Shares may be listed from time to time immediately prior to the publication of the Resource Estimate.

The Consideration Shares and the Bonus Share (if any), when issued, will be subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance of such Common Shares.

Closing of the Acquisition is subject to certain conditions and approvals, including (i) the execution of a royalty agreement for the Net Smelter Royalty in accordance with the terms set forth in the Agreement, (ii) the receipt of all required consents and regulatory approvals, including without limitation the acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange (“TSXV”) and the consent of the CSE, and (iii) such other customary conditions for a transaction such as the Acquisition. The Acquisition is not conditional in any way upon the completion, partial or otherwise, of the LIFE Offering (as defined below).

LIFE Flow Through Offering

The Company is pleased to announce that it intends to complete a non-brokered private placement for gross proceeds of up to C$2,500,000.50 from the sale of up to 1,666,667 “flow-through” units of the Company (each, a “FT Unit”, and collectively, the “FT Units”) at a price of C$1.50 per FT Unit (the “LIFE Offering”) under the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (as defined below).

Each FT Unit will consist of one “flow-through” Common Share (each, a “FT Share” and collectively, “FT Shares”) and one “flow-through” Common Share purchase warrant (each a “FT Warrant” and collectively, “FT Warrants”), issued as “flow-through shares”, as defined in subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the “Tax Act”). Each FT Warrant will be exercisable to acquire one Common Share (each a “Warrant Share”, and collectively, “Warrant Shares”) at a price of $1.60 per Warrant Share for a period of 24 months from the LIFE Closing Date (as defined below). The Warrant Shares underlying the FT Units will not qualify as “flow-through shares” under the Tax Act. The FT Warrants to be issued pursuant to the LIFE Offering will not be listed for trading on any stock exchange. The LIFE Offering is expected to close on or about July 23, 2025 (the “LIFE Closing Date”), or such other date as determined by the Company, such date being no later than 45 days from the date the Company issues a press release announcing the LIFE Offering.

Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106”), the LIFE Offering is being made to purchasers resident in all provinces of Canada, except Quebec, pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of NI 45-106 (the “Listed Issuer Financing Exemption”). The securities offered under the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will not be subject to a hold period in accordance with applicable Canadian securities laws.

The gross proceeds of the LIFE Offering will be used to incur “Canadian exploration expenses” that are “flow-through critical mineral mining expenditures”, within the meaning of the Tax Act, on the Company’s flagship Star Project.

There is an offering document (the “Offering Document”) related to the LIFE Offering that can be accessed under the Company’s issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at: www.starcopper.com. Prospective investors should read this Offering Document before making an investment decision.

The Company may pay finder’s fees in connection with the LIFE Offering in accordance with applicable securities laws and the policies of the CSE. Completion of the LIFE Offering is subject to customary conditions and the receipt of all necessary approvals.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to sell any of 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.

References

1Borovic, I. (1990). Geophysical Survey of the Driftwood Property. ARIS Report 19978.

2Craigmont Mines Ltd. (1974). Diamond Drilling Report – Driftwood River Area. ARIS Report 4967.

3Houle, J. (2003). Kit Resources Ltd. Drilling & Geochemical Report on the Copperline Property. ARIS Report 27276.

4Rodway, N. (2023). Copperline Property Technical Assessment Report. Prepared for Zimtu Capital Corp.

5Weicker, R. (2001). Geological and Prospecting Report on the Copperline Property. ARIS Report 26667.

6British Columbia Minfile Detail Report (2024) (Minfile umber 093M 117) or NMIN 09M15Cu1.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

~Darryl Jones~

Darryl Jones

CEO, President & Director

Star Copper Corp.

About Star Copper Corp. (CSE:STCU)(OTCQX:STCUF)(FWB:SOP / WKN A416ME)

Star Copper Corp. is an exploration and development company focused on developing high-potential copper projects in mining-friendly jurisdictions. The Company aims to advance its British Columbian Star Project where significant exploration work including historical drilling has confirmed open mineralization at depth and in all directions. Star Copper’s strategic plans include geological mapping and geophysical surveys to refine existing targets, diamond drilling programs to test high-priority zones, environmental baseline studies and permitting groundwork alongside data analysis and resource modeling to support a future resource estimate prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. The Company further plans to advance its Indata Project with follow-up drilling to expand on previous high-grade copper and gold intercepts, trenching and surface sampling to delineate mineralized zones, and infrastructure improvements for site accessibility and operations. With a commitment to sustainable development and value creation, Star Copper aims to position itself to support surging industrial demand to meet growing global electrification needs.

For more information visit: www.starcopper.com and to sign up for free news alerts please go to https://starcopper.com/news/news-alerts/, or follow us on X (formerly Twitter),Facebook or LinkedIn. More information in respect of the project, including historical drilling, is available under the Company’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca and/or in the Company’s February 26, 2025 technical report.

Investor Relations Star Copper Corp.

Email: info@starcopper.com

Web: https://starcopper.com/

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements and other statements that are not historical facts. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as “will”, “may”, “should”, “anticipate”, “expects” and similar expressions. All statements other than statements of historical fact, included in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the the Company’s exploration and development plans with respect its projects, statements regarding the LIFE Offering including, without limitation, statements regarding the completion or the expected LIFE Closing Date, the payment of finder’s fees, the receipt of regulatory approvals, and the use of gross proceeds, and statements regarding the Acquisition, including the completion or the anticipated benefits thereof, the receipt of acceptance and consent from the TSXV and the CSE, the prospects of the mineral claims forming the Copperline Property, which is not at an advanced stage of development, the Company’s anticipated business and operational activities, and the Company’s plans with respect to the exploration of the Company’s flagship Star Project, the Indata Project or the Copperline Property. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations include, but are not limited to, the inherently unpredictable nature of resource exploration, market conditions and the risks detailed from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted, as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking information. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect, and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company will update or revise publicly any of the included forward- looking statements as expressly required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Star Copper Corp.

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TORONTO, ONTARIO / ACCESS Newswire / July 16, 2025 / Aclara Resources Inc. (“Aclara” or “Company”) (TSX:ARA) is pleased to announce a strategic collaboration with Stanford University to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence (AI) innovations aimed at securing a resilient and sustainable supply chain for heavy rare earth elements (HREE). The partnership has been initiated through a long-term Letter of Intent (LOI) between Aclara Technologies Inc., Aclara’s U.S.-based subsidiary, and Stanford’s Mineral-X initiative, a leading research initiative focused on transforming the critical minerals´ supply chain through advanced technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), decision science, and data science. This agreement establishes the foundation for a strong academic and technological alliance, leveraging advanced AI solutions to optimize the HREE supply chain from the ground up-starting with exploration and continuing through processing and supply chain integration.

Key Objectives of the Aclara-Stanford Collaboration:

• Joint development of AI-powered predictive models to better understand and target REE mineralization in regolith and ionic clays.

• Academic and technical exchange between researchers, students, and professionals from both institutions to support mutual training, knowledge transfer, and capacity building.

• Innovation opportunities in sustainable exploration, traceability, and responsible development of REE supply chains.

• Co-authorship of scientific publications and joint management of intellectual property related to AI applications in exploration, ensuring confidentiality and managing intellectual property rights in accordance with each Party’s internal policies.

• Roadmap for a long-term strategic alliance, including future R&D initiatives and pilot projects.

“This partnership with Stanford’s Mineral-X reinforces our commitment to innovation and leadership in the global rare earth supply chain,”commented Ramón Barúa, Aclara’s Chief Executive Officer. “By embedding Aclara into Silicon Valley’s innovation ecosystem and combining our expertise in heavy rare earths with Mineral-X’s advanced AI technologies, we aim to jointly develop smarter, cleaner, and more secure solutions that strengthen the resilience of alternative supply chains.”

“It has been a joy collaborating with the world-class data science & geoscience team at Aclara. Their team brings the highest professional experience in REE exploration & resource appraisal and Mineral-X is looking forward to pushing the boundary on the predictive capacity of the human-in-loop data science and AI, thereby making the exploration enterprise more efficient, more targeted and less expensive, ” states Jef Caers, Founder of Mineral-X and Professor of Earth & Planetary Sciences at the Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability.

Through this partnership, Aclara will refine and enhance its use of artificial intelligence (AI) to accelerate the discovery and development of ionic clay-hosted rare earth deposits, crucial sources of the heavy rare earths needed for permanent magnets in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and other decarbonization technologies.

Mineral-X is globally recognized as the leading research platform in AI-enabled mineral exploration. It has served as the launchpad for some of the world’s most successful mining AI startups and is at the forefront of integrating machine learning, geosciences, and sustainability.

About Aclara

Aclara Resources Inc. (TSX: ARA), a Toronto Stock Exchange listed company, is focused on building a vertically integrated supply chain for rare earths alloys used in permanent magnets. This strategy is supported by Aclara’s development of rare earth mineral resources hosted in ionic clay deposits, which contain high concentrations of the scarce heavy rare earths, providing the Company with a long-term, reliable source of these critical materials. The Company’s rare earth mineral resource development projects include the Carina Project in the State of Goiás, Brazil as its flagship project and the Penco Module in the Biobío Region of Chile. Both projects feature Aclara’s patented technology named Circular Mineral Harvesting, which offers a sustainable and energy-efficient extraction process for rare earths from ionic clay deposits. The Circular Mineral Harvesting process has been designed to minimize the water consumption and overall environmental impact through recycling and circular economy principles. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Aclara Technologies Inc., the Company is further enhancing its product value by developing a rare earths separation plant in the United States. This facility will process mixed rare earth carbonates sourced from Aclara’s mineral resource projects, separating them into pure individual rare earth oxides. Additionally, Aclara through a joint venture with CAP, is advancing its alloy-making capabilities to convert these refined oxides into the alloys needed for fabricating permanent magnets. This joint venture leverages CAP’s extensive expertise in metal refining and special ferro-alloyed steels. Beyond the Carina Project and the Penco Module, Aclara is committed to expanding its mineral resource portfolio by exploring greenfield opportunities and further developing projects within its existing concessions in Brazil, Chile, and Peru, aiming to increase future production of heavy rare earths.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects the Company’s current expectations regarding future events, including statements with regard to, among other things, the Company’s corporate strategy; expectations as to activities conducted in connection with this Letter of Intent and the success, effect or outcomes resulting therefrom; the development of new artificial intelligence tools, the optimization of heavy rare earths supply chains and exploration, and the economic effect of the Letter of Intent, and the Company’s expectations as to the partnership contemplated thereby. Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company’s control. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to risks related to operating in a foreign jurisdiction, including political and economic risks in Chile and Brazil; risks related to changes to mining laws and regulations and the termination or non-renewal of mining rights by governmental authorities; risks related to failure to comply with the law or obtain necessary permits and licenses or renew them; cost of compliance with applicable environmental regulations; actual production, capital and operating costs may be different than those anticipated; the Company may be not able to successfully complete the development, construction and startup of mines and new development projects; risks related to fluctuation in commodity prices; risks related to mining operations; and dependence on the Penco Module and/or the Carina Project. Aclara cautions that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. For a detailed discussion of the foregoing factors, among others, please refer to the risk factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in the Company’s annual information form dated as of March 20, 2025, filed on the Company’s SEDAR+ profile. Actual results and timing could differ materially from those projected herein. Unless otherwise noted or the context otherwise indicates, the forward-looking information contained in this press release is provided as of the date of this press release and the Company does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required under applicable securities laws.

For further information, please contact:

Ramón Barúa Costa

Chief Executive Officer

investorrelations@aclara-re.com

SOURCE: Aclara Resources Inc.

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Canadian-headquartered asset manager Fiera Capital is setting the stage for international expansion. Under the leadership of a new global CEO, the company sees the EMEA region as a central pillar of its growth strategy. Zurich serves as one of its key European hubs.

Fiera Capital is an independent Global asset management firm with approximately $112.3 billion in assets under management. Maxime Ménard, who served as CEO of Fiera Canada and also led Fiera Global Private Wealth for over a year before recently being appointed Global CEO, aims to strengthen the firm’s global presence.

Ménard is supportive of the changes introduced by founder and outgoing Global CEO Jean Guy Desjardins and EMEA CEO Klaus Schuster in early 2024 which saw Fiera reorganize its structure into four global regions, with EMEA playing a central role in its growth strategy.

Maxime Ménard (Image: provided)

“We are a global asset manager with a multi-style investment platform and an entrepreneurial spirit,” Ménard said in an interview with finews.com. “Our investment teams span public and private markets and are present around the world, allowing us to partner with top talent wherever it resides. We’ve decentralized our distribution through four regional hubs.”

“I believe EMEA presents a tremendous opportunity for us, given what we have to offer,” he added. Ménard wants to capitalize on Fiera’s strengths as a niche provider outside its home market. “We are able to respond to client needs based on their specific investment objectives. That may sound like a generic claim in this industry, but we’re not solely focused on growing AUM—we’re focused on delivering the right investment solutions. Our ability to customize offerings is a clear value-add.”

Fiera Capital offers investment solutions across both private and public markets. These include a pan-European real estate debt strategy and investments in natural capital, such as agriculture and timber.

“We have a very robust investment platform, with US$14.7 billion in private market assets,” Ménard noted. “Our offerings span real estate, infrastructure and private equity, as well as industry-leading natural capital investments, including one of the largest global open-ended agriculture funds and joint ventures in agriculture and timber.

“Our funds are designed to deliver strong returns while thoughtfully integrating sustainability considerations into the investment process. The open-ended nature of our products appeals to high-net-worth individuals, as well as institutional and mid-market clients,” he said. “As a Canadian-based firm, our ability to offer the right investment solutions in Europe is especially compelling given the current geopolitical environment.”

“We want to emulate the private banking model and serve our clients exceptionally well,” said Klaus Schuster, Executive Director and CEO of EMEA. “Switzerland is our hub for wealth management distribution, and I want to connect Zurich and Geneva with London and Abu Dhabi.”

Klaus Schuster (Image: provided)

“This is clearly one of our growth markets, and we see significant opportunities ahead”, Schuster added.“The largest market for us in EMEA is the UK, particularly with insurance companies and pension funds. But London is also a very important wealth management distribution center. In Germany, we’re seeing strong demand for private market solutions,” he said.

“Our platform was previously centralized in Canada, but we’re now evolving through regionalization – bringing our capabilities closer to clients. Our recent expansion into the Middle East reflects this approach and is already showing encouraging results.

Maxime Ménard was appointed Global CEO in May 2025, succeeding founder Jean-Guy Desjardins, who now serves as Executive Chair of the Board. In this role, Desjardins continues to provide strategic oversight, shape the firm’s investment philosophy, and guide global asset allocation across public and multi-asset strategies.

Fiera Capital is headquartered in Montreal and is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The Zurich office was opened in February 2024

GENERAL MERCHANDISE NEWS

EG Group, the convenience retail, foodservices and fuel stations operator, has appointed Mark Segal as group chief financial officer.

With 35 years’ experience in leading public and private companies in North America, he has joined the business from the Spin Master children’s entertainment business. He spent two periods with the company as executive vice president and chief financial officer covering 20 years and was a key part of the team that successfully undertook an IPO of the business on the Toronto Stock Exchange in 2015.

Prior to Spin Master, he was VP of finance and chief financial officer at Husky Injection Moulding Systems and chief operating officer at the Canada Goose clothing brand.

At EG Group, Segal will report to chief executive Russ Colaco and will be based in the US, the group’s largest market by revenue.

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Colaco said: “I am delighted that Mark is joining us as our chief financial officer.

“He is a strong addition to our team, bringing significant international financial and operational experience gained in both listed and private growth-oriented companies.

“We have clear plans in place for growing the EG business and I look forward to working with Mark to deliver on them.”

Founded in 2001, EG Group has operations in nine countries, with its single biggest market by revenue being the US, followed by Europe, including Germany, Italy, France, Netherlands, Luxembourg, Belgium and the UK, as well as Australia.

Albanian prosecutors have issued 14 precautionary measures and arrested nine individuals linked to Bankers Petroleum Albania as part of an investigation into tax evasion and money laundering, the General Prosecution Office said in a statement. 

Bankers Petroleum Albania is a subsidiary of China’s Geo-Jade Petroleum, and the largest oil producer in Albania. It manages the Patos-Marinza oil field, which is the country’s largest and ranks among the biggest onshore oil fields in Europe. 

The probe, launched in December following a referral from the Tax Investigation Directorate, alleges that the company reported financial losses for 20 years while generating significant revenue from oil production and sales, allowing it to evade taxes and claim fraudulent VAT reimbursements.

“The investigations substantiated that from 2004 to the end of 2024, the company has consistently reported financial losses, resulting in no revenue being accrued by the Albanian state from its activities over the past 20 years,” the prosecutor’s office said. 

“This is despite the extraction and trading of substantial quantities of fuel in the oil-rich regions of Patos-Marinëz-Fier.”

According to the statement, the company reported exports and domestic sales worth more than ALL532bn (€3.5bn) over the period. Prosectors said Bankers reported tax expenses exceeding revenue generated, declaring losses in each fiscal year amounting to a total of ALL117bn. 

“Preliminary findings from the investigation establish that the financial damage inflicted on the state budget, particularly through fraudulent VAT claims, amounts to several million euros,” the statement said. 

Among those detained are the company’s current administrator, identified by prosectors as H.X — Hongping Xiao according to local media — and its former administrator, L.Ç. (Leonidha Çobo), along with several others in leadership positions. Authorities have also declared five individuals, mostly foreign nationals, wanted in connection with the case.

The charges under investigation include “creation of fraudulent schemes regarding value added tax”, “concealment of income”, “laundering the proceeds of criminal offence or criminal activity” and “abuse of office”, prosecutors said.

“It is suspected that, throughout its operations, ‘Bankers Petroleum Albania Ltd’ has artificially inflated its expenses with the intent of reporting losses in its annual financial statements,” the prosecution said. 

“As a result, the company has evaded payment of corporate taxes while benefiting from VAT reimbursements through fraudulent schemes, with the assistance of individuals and other contracting entities engaged in various activities,” it added. 

Prosecutors, working with the local police and tax authorities, conducted searches at company offices and private residences, seizing documents and materials linked to the alleged crimes.

Authorities said investigations remain ongoing into alleged fraudulent VAT schemes and money laundering activities involving individuals and contractors in Albania and abroad.

“Fier Prosecution reaffirms its commitment to effectively pursuing criminal prosecution and holding accountable those responsible for these tax and fiscal offences,” the office said.

Bankers responded on July 4 with a statement saying its leadership team “has integrated honesty into every aspect of BPAL operations”. 

“In response to recent regulatory investigations, BPAL and our parent company, BPL, are committed to fully cooperating with Albanian authorities,” said the statement posted on Facebook. 

“We are in the process of appointing a senior representative to ensure full cooperation and operational transparency. We respect and support all legal measures to maintain regulatory standards and integrity in Albania. So far, our operations remain stable, our core team is complete and our daily activities continue without major interruptions.” 

In 2004, Canada-based Bankers secured an agreement granting it the right to operate the Patos-Marinza oilfield in Albania. Four years later, the company expanded its presence in the country by acquiring the Kuçova oilfield, Albania’s second-largest onshore oilfield.

The company was acquired by affiliates of China’s Geo-Jade Petroleum Corporation in 2016 in a deal valued at around CAD575mn. Following the deal, Bankers’ shares were delisted from the Toronto Stock Exchange and the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange.

Bankers says it has invested $4.5bn in the Albanian economy since 2004, and been responsible for 83% of crude oil production.