Contango Silver and Gold Inc【CTGO】株式ニュース

Lake Victoria Gold Mobilizes Rigs for Sterilization Drilling at Imwelo as Project Advances Toward ProductionMay 7, 2026 11:00 AM
PR Newswire (Canada) Issued on behalf of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd.USANewsGroup.com News CommentaryVANCOUVER, BC, May 7, 2026 /CNW/ -- Companies mentioned: Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. (TSXV: LVG) (OTCQB: LVGLF) (FSE: E1K), Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) (TSX: AEM), Integra Resources Corp. (NYSE-A: ITRG) (TSXV: ITR), Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. (NYSE-A: NAK) (TSX: NDM), Contango Silver & Gold Inc. (NYSE-A: CTGO) (TSX: CTGO). Key Takeaways:Reverse circulation drill rigs are mobilizing to site at Lake Victoria Gold's Imwelo Project this week, with a ~21-day, ~1,050-metre sterilization program scheduled to begin mid-May ahead of construction.The financing stack is structured and advancing toward close: a US$25 million gold loan facility from Monetary Metals (non-dilutive, repayable in gold) plus a fully committed C$3.8 million convertible debenture financing.Imwelo is fully permitted for mine construction and production, with metallurgical testing confirmed gold recovery rates of up to ~97% in metallurgical testwork using conventional methods.Tanzania has formally begun incorporating its 16% statutory free-carried interest in the Tembo mining licences, signalling regulatory progress on Lake Victoria Gold's second 100% owned project.Macro setup: J.P. Morgan projects gold pushing toward $5,000 per ounce by Q4 2026; State Street's April 2026 Gold Monitor reports sovereign gold reserves at an all-time high of 2,309 tonnes; the World Gold Council expects another ~850 tonnes of central bank gold purchases through 2026.When global mine output is hitting a wall and central banks are buying every available ounce, the developers that already have a permit, advancing funding, and crews on site stop looking like junior miners and start to attract increased market attention as potential contributors to future supply. That is the lane Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. (TSXV: LVG) (OTCQB: LVGLF) (FSE: E1K) is now operating in.This week, the Company announced that reverse circulation ("RC") drill rigs are mobilizing to the fully permitted Imwelo Gold Project in Tanzania, with a ~21-day, ~1,050-metre sterilization drilling program scheduled to commence mid-May. The work is a defined pre-construction workstream — designed to confirm that planned plant, accommodation, and support facilities are not sitting on potentially mineralized ground that would later create a sterilization headache. Results will inform final site layout, engineering design, and the development sequencing that bridges the project from permitting to construction.Planned drilling includes ~500 metres at the proposed plant area (10 holes to ~50m depth), ~550 metres at the accommodation and stores area (11 holes to ~50m depth), and additional testing of NW and EW trending magnetic anomalies. The program is expected to be completed within approximately three weeks.Marc Cernovitch, President & CEO of Lake Victoria Gold, on the program:"Mobilizing drill rigs to site marks another important step as we advance Imwelo toward development and construction. This program is focused on de-risking the project at the infrastructure level, ensuring that key facilities are optimally located ahead of construction. With engineering work progressing in parallel, we continue to move Imwelo forward in a disciplined manner toward near-term production."Financing Strategy Supporting Near-TermConstructionEarlier this year, Lake Victoria Gold closed a binding term sheet for a gold loan facility worth up to US$25 million from Monetary Metals, backed by up to 6,000 ounces of gold. The Company also locked in a fully committed C$3.8 million convertible debenture financing led by a long-term significant shareholder. Together, the deals provide a clear pathway to fund near-term development activities and advance the project toward construction.The Monetary Metals gold loan is non-dilutive and production-linked. Repayment comes in gold ounces, not cash, so the facility scales naturally with output. The convertible debenture carries a 5.0% annual interest rate, converts at $0.31 per share, and includes half-warrants exercisable at $0.40. For a developer at this stage, the structure is purpose-built to advance the project without flooding the market with new shares.Imwelo's Technical Foundation Is Already In PlaceImwelo has confirmed gold recovery rates of up to approximately 97% in metallurgical testwork using conventional methods. A completed drill program at Area C returned grades including 11.88 g/t gold over 1.33 metres from 169.75m and confirmed mineralization extending well beyond the current pit design at depth and laterally. Geotechnical and specific-gravity studies have supported potential consolidation of Area C into a single open-pit design — a structural simplification that could improve the project's economics and reduce execution complexity.Tembo: The Optionality LayerLake Victoria Gold's 100% owned Tembo Project sits adjacent to Barrick's Bulyanhulu Mine and has more than 50,000 metres of historical drilling on it. Recent surface artisanal sampling returned grades up to 35.45 g/t gold. Tanzania's government has formally begun incorporating its statutory 16% free-carried interest in the Tembo mining licences — a required regulatory step that signals the project is advancing through the country's established framework.The Company advancing toward a binding toll-milling agreement with Nyati Resources, a well-established Tanzanian operator, to begin toll milling at Tembo. That deal would allow Lake Victoria Gold to process material through an existing facility, potentially opening a pathway to early cash flow without heavy upfront capital spending.Strategic Backing and Insider AlignmentLake Victoria Gold counts Barrick Gold among its strategic equity investors and the Taifa Group — Tanzania's largest mining contractor, with over 30 years of in-country experience and longstanding work for Petra, De Beers, Barrick, and AngloGold Ashanti — as a strategic partner. Through its wholly Tanzanian-owned subsidiary Taifa Mining, the Group has agreed to take an equity stake in the Company and will conduct contract mining and civil works for the Imwelo Project. Taifa owns the largest fleet of mining equipment in Tanzania.Management, directors, and strategic partners collectively own more than 60% of outstanding shares — an unusually high alignment ratio for a name at this development stage.NOTE: For a Cautionary Note on Production Decision, please see the Disclaimer below.In other industry developments and happenings in the market include:Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE: AEM) (TSX: AEM) reported first quarter 2026 results, including record quarterly operating margins and adjusted net income.Payable gold production in Q1 was 825,109 ounces — approximately 24% of the mid-point of full-year guidance — at production costs per ounce of $1,158, total cash costs of $1,093 per ounce, and all-in sustaining costs of $1,483 per ounce. Solid production combined with realized gold prices of $4,861 per ounce delivered net income of $1,695 million ($3.39 per share) and record adjusted net income of $1,706 million ($3.41 per share). Free cash flow was $732 million in the quarter. Fitch Ratings upgraded Agnico Eagle's long-term issuer default rating from BBB+ to A in April 2026."We delivered a solid start to 2026, achieving record operating margins while production and costs tracked well to plan," said Ammar Al-Joundi, Agnico Eagle's President and Chief Executive Officer. "We are excited by the strong progress across our industry leading growth pipeline and are beginning to look beyond the 20–30% production growth already expected over the next decade, with our recently announced proposed acquisitions in Finland marking a milestone in our next phase of long-term growth."Integra Resources Corp. (NYSE-A: ITRG) (TSXV: ITR) on April 23, 2026 reported first quarter 2026 production results from its Florida Canyon Mine in Nevada, including gold production of 12,635 ounces and a record mining rate of 76,800 total tonnes per day, while strengthening its balance sheet with $105.6 million in cash following a $61 million bought deal financing.The company has allocated $62–$68 million in sustaining capital for 2026, focused on capitalized waste stripping, mobile fleet upgrades, and infill drilling to position the mine for improved cost performance in subsequent years."The first quarter of 2026 marked a period of strong operational progress at Florida Canyon, with record mining rates and the successful ramp-up of our Phase IIIB leach pad. While gold production in the quarter reflects temporary constraints, the deferred ounces are expected to be recovered over the balance of the year. Importantly, we maintained our full-year production guidance, underscoring our confidence in the operation," said CEO George Salamis of Integra Resources.Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. (NYSE-A: NAK) (TSX: NDM) is actively contesting the EPA's Clean Water Act veto of its Pebble Project in Southwest Alaska. On April 14, 2026, plaintiffs filed response briefs in Alaska Federal Court challenging a Department of Justice brief filed February 17, 2026, and on April 23, 2026, the Federal District Court scheduled oral argument for June 25, 2026.The Pebble Project, located 200 miles from Anchorage, represents one of the largest undeveloped gold-copper-molybdenum deposits in the world, with the company maintaining it could generate significant revenue for Alaska and the broader U.S. economy."Our strategy has always been grounded in a solid legal case that this veto was illegal, and a high level of confidence that the court will agree with us," said Ron Thiessen, President and CEO of Northern Dynasty Minerals. "The flaws in this brief only increase that confidence."Contango Silver & Gold Inc. (NYSE-A: CTGO) (TSX: CTGO) announced a $9.0 million cash distribution from the Peak Gold JV and outlined a fully funded 2026 exploration program.The 2026 program includes a sustained underground drill program at Lucky Shot in Alaska to support a Feasibility Study due H1 2027, pivotal infrastructure construction and permitting at the Johnson Tract Critical Metals project, and an updated Mineral Resource Estimate at the Kitsault Valley project followed by a comprehensive drilling program supporting a preliminary development plan due H1 2027. Total planned 2026 drilling is approximately 60,000 metres across the portfolio. The company began trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange on April 13, 2026 under symbol CTGO, while continuing to trade on NYSE American."The $9 million cash distribution from the Peak Gold JV underscores the unique strength of our business model — using cash flow from our producing mine operations to fund the aggressive advancement of our 100%-owned assets," said Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse, the Company's Chief Executive Officer. "We are hitting the ground running in 2026 with the strongest balance sheet and the most aggressive operational schedule in our Company's history."CONTACT:
USA NEWS GROUP
info @acblanke1DISCLAIMER:Nothing in this publication should be considered as personalized financial advice. We are not licensed under securities laws to address your particular financial situation. No communication by our employees to you should be deemed as personalized financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decision. This is a paid advertisement and is neither an offer nor recommendation to buy or sell any security. We hold no investment licenses and are thus neither licensed nor qualified to provide investment advice. The content in this report or email is not provided to any individual with a view toward their individual circumstances. USA News Group is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Market IQ Media Group, Inc. (MIQ). MIQ has been paid a fee for Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. advertising and digital media. There may also be 3rd parties who may have shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. and may liquidate their shares which could have a negative effect on the price of the stock. This compensation constitutes a conflict of interest as to our ability to remain objective in our communication regarding the profiled company. Because of this conflict, individuals are strongly encouraged to not use this publication as the basis for any investment decision. The owner/operator of MIQ own shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd and reserve the right to buy and sell, and will buy and sell shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. at any time without any further notice commencing immediately and ongoing. We also expect further compensation as an ongoing digital media effort to increase visibility for the company, no further notice will be given, but let this disclaimer serve as notice that all material, including this article, has been approved by Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. Technical information relating to Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. has been reviewed and approved by David Scott, Pr. Sci. Nat., a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101. Mr. Scott is a registered member of the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) and is a Director of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd., and therefore is not independent of the Company.Cautionary Note on Production Decision:Although Imwelo has been the subject of JORC-compliant PEA, PFS and updated PFS work, these foreign-code studies are not current under NI 43-101. The Company has not completed a feasibility study on Imwelo that establishes mineral reserves demonstrating economic and technical viability and is not treating the JORC-based estimates or analyses as current under CIM Definition Standards. Any decision to commence production is not based on a feasibility study of mineral reserves and therefore involves increased uncertainty and a higher risk of economic and technical failure. There is no certainty that the planned low-capex open-pit operation will be economically viable or that production will occur as anticipated. Risks include, without limitation, variations in grade and recovery, unexpected geotechnical or metallurgical challenges, cost overruns, funding availability, and operational, regulatory, or permitting risks. This is a paid advertisement, we currently own shares of Lake Victoria Gold Ltd. and will buy and sell shares of the company in the open market, or through private placements, and/or other investment vehicles. While all information is believed to be reliable, it is not guaranteed by us to be accurate. Individuals should assume that all information contained in our newsletter is not trustworthy unless verified by their own independent research. Also, because events and circumstances frequently do not occur as expected, there will likely be differences between any predictions and actual results. Always consult a licensed investment professional before making any investment decision. Be extremely careful, investing in securities carries a high degree of risk; you may likely lose some or all of the investment.Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2838876/5958291/USA_News_Group_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lake-victoria-gold-mobilizes-rigs-for-sterilization-drilling-at-imwelo-as-project-advances-toward-production-302765617.htmlSOURCE USA News Group Original: Lake Victoria Gold Mobilizes Rigs for Sterilization Drilling at Imwelo as Project Advances Toward Production

Contango Announces 2025 Year End Financials and Provides 2026 and 2027 Production GuidanceMarch 16, 2026 7:00 AM
PR Newswire (US)

FAIRBANKS, Alaska, March 16, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Contango ORE, Inc. ("Contango" or the "Company") (NYSE American: CTGO) announced today that it filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission its Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2025 ("FY 2025").

In FY 2025 Contango's share of production from its Manh Choh mine, operated in partnership with Kinross, totaled approximately 60,200 gold equivalent ounces1 ("GEO"). The Company reported a net loss of $36.1 million ("M"), including a non-cash expense of $46.0 M from an unrealized loss on derivative contracts for FY 2025. The Company reported adjusted net income2 of $73.0 million ("M") and total income from operations of $69.1 M. The Company's unrestricted cash position as of December 31, 2025 was $64.8 M compared to $20.0 M as of December 31, 2024.Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse, President and CEO of the Company, stated, "Production in FY 2025 was in line with guidance, producing approximately 60,200 gold equivalent ounces, including 57,315 ounces of silver. In FY 2025, 57,800 ounces of gold were sold (the remaining sold during Q1 2026) with cash costs per ounce sold1 of $1,459 and all-in-sustaining costs per ounce sold1 of $1,616 in line with 2025 guidance of $1,625 per ounce sold. During FY 2025, the Company remained focused on paying down its debt and delivering into the hedge contracts with $37.5 M in principal repayments on its Credit Facility and 43,739 ounces of gold delivered into its hedge contracts, bringing the Credit Facility balance down to $14.6 M and hedge contracts to 43,000 ounces as of December 31, 2025. The Company further offset its hedge book through the repurchase of 15,446 ounces on February 12, 2026._____________________________1 See non-GAAP measures in the Company's 10K for the year ended December 31, 20252 See non-GAAP measures at end of this press release for calculation of adjusted net incomeAt the Lucky Shot project, we commenced an underground diamond drilling program in Q4 2025 with positive initial assay results released in late February 2026. The current program represents the first phase of a multi-phase underground and surface exploration campaign designed to support resource in-fill and expansion with an objective of targeting 400,000 to 500,000 measured and indicated gold ounces to support a feasibility level mine production and transportation plan, with the objective of targeting 40,000 to 50,000 ounces of annual gold production using our Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) approach, assuming positive exploration success. We expect to complete the feasibility study in 12 to 18 months and make a production decision in 2027.At Johnson Tract an initial assessment of the tide water accessible high grade polymetallic (gold, zinc, copper, silver, lead) deposit was announced on May 6, 2025, indicating a post-tax net present value of $615.4 M and pay-back period of 1.3 years using a $4,000 gold price. We remain heads down with permitting under the FAST-41 program and will scale up field activities in 2026, including heavy equipment mobilization, construction of a road from the camp to the proposed portal site and winterizing the camp for year-round operations. This will result in developing sustainable mining projects that domestically produce the metals needed for our modern society and security.Finally, we would like to acknowledge and thank our dedicated team of employees, the State and Federal agencies we work with as well as our contractors and extensive network of stakeholders in the communities around our projects. As we advance toward the Dolly Varden merger, currently targeted to close by late March, subject to shareholder and final regulatory approvals, we recognize that our continued success relies on support from all these groups as well as our investors. Note that after the Dolly Varden merger closes, we anticipate a comprehensive update on all exploration activities and plans for 2026 for the new Company – Contango Silver and Gold Inc."During FY 2025 and subsequent to year end, the Company has the following updates:Manh Choh Production Results Peak Gold JV (on a 100% basis)1

FY 2025
Total tons mined

13.6M tonsOre tons mined

1.20M tonsGold oz mined

216,758ozOre tons processed

1,069,470tonGold grade processed

0.20oz/tGold recovery

93%Gold oz produced2

198,450ozGold oz sold

192,750ozSilver oz sold

191,050oz

Contango's Share (on a 30% basis)1

Gold oz produced

59,500ozGold oz sold

57,800ozTotal gold equivalent oz produced3&4

60,200ozSilver oz sold

57,315ozTotal gold sales

$196,653,253
Total silver sales

$2,313,217
Cash costs on a by-product basis, per oz sold4

1,459per oz sold AISC on a by-product basis, per oz sold4

1,616per oz sold

Principal debt repayments

$37,500
Gold oz delivered into hedge contracts

43,739ozAverage realized spot gold price

$3,400per oz soldCash distributions received from Peak Gold JV

$102,000,000
Notes:

1.Certain numbers have been rounded for presentation purposes.
2.Includes estimate of recoverable gold inventory of 5,700 oz.
3.Gold equivalent oz calculated using a factor of 85.1 to 1 for conversion of silver oz.
4.See non-GAAP measures disclosed in the Company's 10K for the year ended December 31, 2025.FY 2025 Production Highlights (Contango's 30% share):FY 2025 Production of 60,200 gold equivalent ounces ("GEO")3, including 1,700 ounces ("oz") of recoverable gold inventory and 57,315 oz of silverAverage realized spot gold price of $3,400 per ozAverage head grade of gold processed of 0.20 oz per ton ("oz/t")43,739 oz of gold delivered into hedge contracts$102 million ("M") in cash distributions received from the Peak Gold JV for 2025Cash costs per ounce sold of $1,459 and all-in sustaining costs ("AISC") of 1,616 per ounce sold_____________________________3 Gold equivalent oz calculated using a factor of 85.1 to 1 for conversion of silver oz.Lucky Shot Project:In Q4 2025, the first phase of a 15,000-meter underground in-fill drilling program commenced with positive initial assays results released in late February 2026. This work, along with detailed engineering, hydrology and geotechnical work will form the basis for a feasibility level mine and transportation plan for Lucky Shot, targeting 40,000 oz to 50,000 oz of gold production per year using our Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) approach, assuming positive exploration success. We expect to complete the feasibility study in 12 to 18 months and make a production decision in 2027.Johnson Tract Project:In FY 2025, the Company continued with ongoing work to permit the underground exploration drift along with baseline environmental and engineering work to support permitting a road and barge landing facility within the Transportation and Port Easements granted to Cook Inlet Regional Inc. (CIRI) the underlying landowner. Field crews started work in July 2025 and finalized the field program in mid-October.On January 30, 2026, the Johnson Tract project was officially placed onto the FAST-41 Dashboard.Repayments of Debt, Reduction of Hedge Contracts and Financing:The Company's unrestricted cash position as of December 31, 2025 was $64.8 M.In FY 2025, Contango repaid $37.5 M on the Facility, reducing the outstanding principal balance to $14.6M.On September 25, 2025, the Company raised gross proceeds of $50 M by issuing 1,975,000 shares of common stock and pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 525,000 shares of common stock at a public offering price of $20.00 per share and $19.99 per pre-funded warrant.On February 12, 2026, the Company raised gross proceeds of $50 M by issuing 1,678,206 shares of common stock and pre-funded warrants to purchase up to 325,000 shares of common stock at a public offering price of $24.96 per share and $24.95 per pre-funded warrant.On February 12, 2026, the Company paid $46.4 M to settle gold hedge contracts for 15,446 ounces with an average strike price of $2,025 per ounce with maturities ranging between March and September 2026. In addition, as part of a price protection strategy to offset the hedge settlements, the Company paid $0.4 million to purchase 15,446 puts with a strike price of $4,000 per ounce. As of the date of this report, the remaining gold hedge contracts total 11,000 ounces in 2026 and 15,000 ounces in the first half of 2027.Corporate Development – Dolly Varden Merger:On December 8, 2025, the Company and Dolly Varden Silver Corporation ("Dolly Varden") announced that they entered into an arrangement agreement (the "Arrangement Agreement") to combine Contango and Dolly Varden on a merger-of-equals basis pursuant to a statutory plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (British Columbia) (the "Transaction") (the combined entity referred to as "MergeCo"). Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Arrangement Agreement, Contango will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of Dolly Varden (the "DV Shares") at an exchange ratio of 0.1652 of a share of voting common stock of Contango for each DV Share held (the "Exchange Ratio"). Upon completion of the Transaction, existing Contango and Dolly Varden shareholders will own approximately 50% each of the outstanding common stock of Contango, respectively, on a fully diluted in-the-money basis. MergeCo is expected to be renamed Contango Silver & Gold Inc. and will be led by Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse as CEO, Shawn Khunkhun as President and Mike Clark as Executive Vice President and CFO. The board of directors of MergeCo will include Clynt Nauman as Chairman, Brad Juneau, Darren Devine, Mike Cinnamond, Tim Clark, Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse and Shawn Khunkhun. The Transaction is expected to close in late March 2026.Statement of Operations for FY 2025 compared to FY 2024:The Company reported total income from operations of $69.1M in FY 2025 compared to $26.3 M for FY 2024. In FY 2025, the Company reported adjusted net income of $73.0 M compared to $16.1 M for FY 2024. The Company reported net loss of $36.1 M or $2.80 loss per fully diluted share. This compares to a net loss of $38.0 M for FY 2024 or $3.49 loss per fully diluted share. The net loss for FY 2025 and FY 2024 includes a non-cash unrealized loss on derivative contracts related to the hedges in the amounts of $46.0 M and $34.3 M, respectively.Statement of Cash Flows for FY 2025 compared to FY 2024:Net cash provided from operating activities was $25.7 M for FY 2025 compared to $0.7 M for FY 2024. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was primarily driven by gold production at the Manh Choh mine and the receipt of $102.0 M in cash distributions from the Peak Gold JV. Cash used in investing activities was $0.5 M for FY 2025 compared to $32.1 M in FY 2024 related to cash invested in the Peak Gold JV to fund Contango's share of Manh Choh development costs in 2024. Cash provided by financing activities in FY 2025 was $18.4 M, primarily related to cash proceeds from an equity offering offset by principal repayments of $37.5 M on the credit facility. This compares to cash inflows of $36.0 M in FY 2024, primarily related to debt drawdowns of $30.0 M on the credit facility and an equity offering. The Company's unrestricted cash position as of December 31, 2025 was $64.8 M compared to $20.1 M as of December 31, 2024.2026 and 2027 Outlook: Rapid Growth and Strategic MomentumMr. Van Nieuwenhuyse further stated, "FY 2026 is a transition mining year at Manh Choh as operations sequence from the North Pit to the South Pit as outlined in the Feasibility Study mine plan in the Manh Choh Technical Report Summary4 (the "TRS"). Total tonnes mined in 2026 is budgeted to be approximately 14% higher than 2025 with 1.21 million ore tons to be mined at an estimated production grade of 0.19 oz/t resulting in a projected 225,000 contained ounces mined ( on a 100% basis), an increase of approximately 4% compared to 2025 gold ounces mined. On a FY 2026 basis, the improved ore production anticipated at Manh Choh will be partially offset by planned stockpile delays to accommodate batch processing of Manh Choh ores at the Fort Knox mill. There is an approximate 4-month lag between when a ton of ore is mined and then transported, processed, sold and credited to Contango's bullion account. This timing difference is particularly noticeable in 2026 as the Manh Choh mine sequences from lower grade "transition" ores in Q1 2026 through Q3 2026 into the higher-grade South Pit ores in Q4 2026, the primary benefits of which will be seen in Q1 2027. Ore tons and average grade delivered to the Fort Knox mill for processing during FY 2026 will be 990,000 tons with an average grade of 0.155 oz/ton for estimated gold production of 142,700 oz produced (40,000 oz to 45,000 oz for Contango's 30% share). The higher-grade ores in the South Pit are projected to produce 1.18 million tons of mined ore in FY 2027 at an average gold grade of 0.26 oz/ton, yielding an estimated 75,000 oz to 80,000 oz produced for Contango's account. We expect robust cash distributions from the Peak Gold JV with an estimated range of $48 M to $54 M distributed in FY 2026 and $165 M to $175 M in FY 2027, based on current assumptions, including an estimated $3,700 per oz gold price. We plan to be completely un-hedged by the end of FY 2026 with less than $10 M remaining on our Credit Facility, with a strong balance sheet and be well positioned to take full benefit of a rising gold-price environment._____________________________4 See press release announcing TRS: https://www.contangoore.com/press-release/contango-ore-announces-completion-of-s-k-1300-technical-report-summary-for-its-manh-choh-project-in-alaska. To view a copy of the TRS, see: https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/5fc5d36fd44fd675102e4420/6470afdaf94d2ac9f93d93e0_SIMS%20Contango%20Manh%20Choh%20Project%20S-K%201300%20TRS%20FINAL%2020230524%20(1)-compressed.pdf. The information contained in, or otherwise accessible through, the links are not part of, and are not incorporated by reference into this release.2026 and 2027 Production Guidance Highlights:Contango's share of gold production from the Manh Choh mine is estimated to range from 40,000 to 45,000 oz of gold for FY 2026, with cash costs estimated to range from $1,900 to $2,000 per oz of gold sold, and 75,000 to 80,000 oz of gold production for FY 2027, with cash costs estimated to range from $1,200 to $1,300 per oz of gold sold. Higher estimated FY 2026 cash costs are the result of lower gold production in FY2026, larger royalty payments due to the increasing gold price and, to a lesser degree, higher costs associated with wages and consumables. Recent increased volatility in forecast fuel prices may have impact on costs in 2026.Cash Distributions: The Company anticipates robust distributions from the Peak Gold JV, projected to range between $48 M to $54 M in FY 2026 and rising to a range of $165 M to $175 M in FY 2027 (based on a $3,700/oz gold price assumption).Becoming Debt-Free and Hedge-Free: Contango is scheduled to deliver 11,000 oz of gold into its hedge contracts in FY 2026 and plans to become fully unhedged in FY 2026 by early delivering the remaining 15,000 oz by the end of FY 2026. In addition, the Company is forecasting to completely pay off its Credit Facility by early 2027.Gold Production Guidance (Estimates)Peak Gold JV (on a 100% basis)1
2025
Actual2026
Guidance2027
Guidance
Total tons mined

13.615.53.0M tonOre tons mined

1.201.211.18M tonGold oz mined

216,758225,000307,000ozGold grade mined

0.180.190.26oz/tOre tons processed

1,069,470990,0001,096,000tonGold grade processed

0.200.1550.27oz/tGold recovery (%)

939388%Gold production2

192,750142,700261,500ozSilver production2

191,050185,800288,000oz

Contango's Share (on a 30% basis)1

Gold oz production guidance

59,50040,000 to 45,000 75,000 to 80,000 ozPrincipal debt repayments

$37,500$4,000$10,000
Gold oz to deliver into hedge contracts

43,73912,554515,000ozCash distributions from Peak Gold JV3

$102 M$48 M to $54 M$165 M to $175 M

Cash Costs and AISC Guidance (30% basis)4

Cash costs on a by-product basis, per oz

$1,459$1,900 to $2,000$1,200 to $1,300
AISC on a by-product basis, per oz

$1,616$2,200 to $2,300$1,300 to $1,400
Notes:

1.Certain numbers have been rounded for presentation purposes.
2.Gold and silver production reported in '2025 Actuals' represents gold and silver sold in the Peak Gold JV in 2025.
3.Based on current assumptions, including gold price of $3,700 per oz and current operating costs being achieved.
4.See non-GAAP measures disclosed in the Company's 10K for the year ended December 31, 2025.
5.The Company settled 15,446 oz of hedge contracts on February 12, 2026, reducing the balance of hedge contracts to 12,554 oz for 2026 and 15,000 for 2027.Adjusted Net Income (Non-GAAP)Management uses Adjusted net income to evaluate the Company's operating performance, and to plan and forecast its operations. The Company believes the use of Adjusted net income reflects the underlying operating performance of our core mining business and allows investors and analysts to compare results of the Company to similar results of other mining companies. Management's determination of the components of Adjusted net income is evaluated periodically and is based, in part, on a review of non-GAAP financial measures used by mining industry analysts. Net loss (GAAP) is reconciled to Adjusted net income (Non-GAAP) adjusted for loss on derivative contracts in the following table:
FY 2025($)FY 2024 ($)Net loss(36,086,645)(38,030,291)Loss on derivative contracts 109,108,19454,150,141Adjusted net income73,021,54916,119,850QUALIFIED PERSONSThe scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Dave Larimer, CPG, VP, Exploration for Contango ORE, Inc., who is a Qualified Person as defined by SEC Regulation S-K 1300. Dave Larimer is not independent of the Company.CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCASTContango will host a conference call and webcast to discuss the year end 2025 results on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 2:00pm EST / 11:00am PST. Participants may join the webcast using the following call-in details: https://6ix.com/event/contango-ore-2025-year-end-earnings-and-2627-guidance.ABOUT CONTANGO Contango is a NYSE American listed company that engages in the exploration for and development and production of gold and associated minerals in Alaska. Contango holds a 30% interest in the Peak Gold JV, which leases approximately 675,000 acres of land for exploration and development on the Manh Choh project, with the remaining 70% owned by KG Mining (Alaska), Inc., an indirect subsidiary of Kinross Gold Corporation, operator of the Peak Gold JV. The Company and its subsidiaries also have (i) a lease on the Johnson Tract project, which consists of mineral rights to approximately 21,000 acres located near tidewater, 125 miles southwest of Anchorage, Alaska, from the underlying owner, CIRI, (ii) a lease on the Lucky Shot project, which consists of mineral rights to approximately 8,600 acres of State of Alaska and patented mining claims located in the Willow Mining District about 75 miles north of Anchorage, Alaska, from the underlying owner, Alaska Hardrock Inc., (iii) mineral rights to approximately 145,000 acres of State of Alaska mining claims, and (iv) mineral rights to approximately 11,700 acres of State of Alaska mining claims and upland mining leases, all of which give Contango the exclusive right to explore and develop minerals on these lands. Additional information can be found on our web page at www.contangoore.com. FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTSThis press release contains forward-looking statements regarding Contango that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor for "forward-looking statements" provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, based on Contango's current expectations and includes statements regarding future results of operations, quality and nature of the asset base, the assumptions upon which estimates are based and other expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, strategies or statements about future events or performance (often, but not always, using words such as "expects", "projects", "anticipates", "plans", "estimates", "intends", "believes", "ensures", "forecasts", "predicts", "proposes", "contemplates", "aims", "seeks", "continues", "potential", "positioned", "strategy", "outlook", "future", "going forward", "designed to", and similar expressions or other words of similar meaning, and the negatives thereof, or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "might", "will", "should", "would", or "could" be taken, or that they are "possible", "probable", or "likely" to occur or be achieved). However, the absence of these words does not mean that the statements are not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in the statements. These risks include, but are not limited to: the risks of the exploration and the mining industry (for example, operational risks in exploring for and developing mineral reserves; risks and uncertainties involving geology; the speculative nature of the mining industry; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to future production, costs and expenses; the volatility of natural resources prices, including prices of gold and associated minerals; the existence and extent of commercially exploitable minerals in properties acquired by Contango or the Peak Gold JV; ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Peak Gold JV; potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the interpretation of exploration results and the estimation of mineral resources; the loss of key employees or consultants; health, safety and environmental risks and risks related to weather and other natural disasters); uncertainties as to the availability and cost of financing; Contango's inability to retain or maintain its relative ownership interest in the Peak Gold JV; inability to realize expected value from acquisitions; inability of our management team to execute its plans to meet its goals; the extent of disruptions caused by an outbreak of disease, such as the COVID-19 pandemic; and the possibility that government policies may change, political developments may occur or governmental approvals may be delayed or withheld, including as a result of presidential and congressional elections in the U.S. or the inability to obtain mining permits. Additional information on these and other factors which could affect Contango's operations program or financial results are included in Contango's other reports on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from the projections in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the estimates and opinions of management at the time the statements are made. Contango does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/contango-announces-2025-year-end-financials-and-provides-2026-and-2027-production-guidance-302714144.htmlSOURCE Contango Ore

Original: Contango Announces 2025 Year End Financials and Provides 2026 and 2027 Production Guidance