The Mining Insider Daily Brief - Episode 1: Global Gold Merger, Copper Expansion & Coal Policy Shift (Feb 26, 2025)

Host: Logan Ore | Runtime: 5:15

Key Stories:

1. Equinox Gold acquires Calibre Mining in $2.6B Canadian merger
2. BHP invests $2B in Argentina copper project
3. Alberta announces controversial coal mining reforms
4. Preview: PDAC mining summit tests junior financing

Gold Merger Creates Canadian Powerhouse

Combines Equinox's Ontario Greenstone Mine with Calibre's Newfoundland Valentine project. Projected 1.2Moz annual gold output by 2026. Stock reaction: Equinox (TSX:EQX) -3%, Calibre (TSX:CXB) -7%.

BHP's High-Altitude Copper Gamble

$2B stake in Argentina's 4,500m-elevation Filo del Sol copper-gold project. Targets first production by 2029 using renewable energy systems.

Alberta Coal Policy Sparks Debate

New rules restrict surface mining but allow "high wall" techniques. Projected 15 new underground mines by 2035. Legal challenges expected.

PDAC Summit Preview

90+ junior miners pitch to 600+ investors in Toronto. Focus on critical minerals vs gold prospects after 2024's 23% exploration budget drop.

Critical Quotes:

"This creates a gold mining powerhouse with two new Canadian cornerstone mines." - Ross Beaty, Equinox Chairman

"Our strict criteria for scale, grade, and ESG parameters are met here." - Vandita Pant, BHP Copper President

"Technology-led solutions will define responsible resource development." - Brian Jean, Alberta Energy Minister

Market Snapshot:

Gold: $2,906/oz (+1.4%) | Copper: $4.18/lb (-0.7%) | TSXV Mining Index: +18% YTD

Sources:

• Equinox/Calibre merger documents (Feb 25)
• BHP-Lundin partnership release (Feb 26)
• Alberta Energy Policy 2025-2035 (Feb 25)
• PDAC 2025 participant list (Feb 24)