RE: Brilliant update on Vast by Vox Markets31 Oct 2023 11:03
View from Vox 9 mins ago
"While Vast's revenues and loss remained broadly unchanged year-on-year as higher sales and forex gains offset lower commodity prices, the company made significant operational progress, setting it up for future growth. Baita Plai production increased by 60% accompanied by an aggressive shift to mechanised mining. A drilling campaign is underway to establish an enlarged JORC compliant mineral resource with an exploration target of 11.65-12.65 Mt and encouraging initial results.
At Takob in Tajikistan, Vast also made material progress to develop its position in polymetallics as evidenced by the recent signing of an MoU in connection with the Aprelevka gold mines in the Tien Shan Belt. Additionally, first shipments of lead and zinc from the mine were delivered to offtaker Trafigura post-period. For its participation in Takob, Vast will receive a 12.25% royalty on all sales of non-ferrous concentrate and any other metals produced.
Overall, the economic fundamentals for Vast's polymetallic business remain sound. Continued demand for copper has buoyed prices, despite current geopolitical risks. The forecast global growth in EVs remains likely to create a shortage of copper as producers struggle to meet demand. If commodity bulls continue to drive polymetallics and Romanian risk premiums continue to drop, Vast has potential for significant medium-term growth.
Vast remains well-funded after raising £1.8m through a placing earlier in October, following a £1.7m fundraise in July, providing sufficient working capital to develop and expand its portfolio. The company is also waiting on the recovery of a historic parcel of 129,400 rough diamonds held in custody at the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, following a High Court Order in Vast's favour."