#Chile #Hot Chili #La Verde #Atacama #Copper Gold

Significant Copper-Gold Drill Results from La Verde Project

Hot Chili Limited, a prominent player in the mining sector, has once again delivered remarkable drill results from its La Verde copper-gold (Cu-Au) porphyry project located in Chile's coastal Atacama region. The company's recent drilling efforts have yielded significant intersections which accentuate La Verde’s high mineralization potential, positioning it as a cornerstone asset for Hot Chili.

Recent Discoveries

Recent drilling at La Verde has brought forth outstanding results, with specific emphasis on hole DKD060, which encountered an impressive interval of 472 meters grading 0.41% Copper Equivalent (CuEq) starting from a depth of 49 meters. Within this extensive interval, segments of higher-grade mineralization were also noted, such as 105.8 meters grading 0.70% CuEq encountered from 397 meters below surface. This section alone included 32.6 meters grading 0.90% CuEq from 438 meters downwards.

Additionally, drill hole DKP058 has continued to build on previously reported results, now demonstrating 182 meters grading 0.50% CuEq starting from 24 meters depth. This reinforces the confidence in the mineral continuity along La Verde's eastern flank.

The progression of drilling activities showcases the growing high-grade core within La Verde, providing robust support for Hot Chili’s strategy to integrate this asset into its broader Costa Fuego copper-gold project. This integration is expected to significantly enhance the project’s scale and economics.

Ongoing Drilling Operations

The commitment to advancing La Verde is evident, as Hot Chili has added a fourth drilling rig to expedite operations. With plans to bolster drilling to six shifts per day, the company aims to amplify exploration efficiency in response to the recent heavy rainfall affecting the area. These measures indicate Hot Chili’s focused approach to achieving a maiden Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) for La Verde later this year.

As part of its exploration plans, Hot Chili continues to evaluate the project's potential, awaiting assay results from 18 drill holes, which are set to provide further insights into La Verde's resource capacity.

Impact of Regional Weather Events

While the recent weather conditions have posed challenges, Hot Chili has been proactive in supporting local communities adversely affected by severe weather. The company's community team played a crucial role in recovery efforts, assisting with infrastructure rehabilitation. This commitment to local welfare not only strengthens community ties but also highlights the company’s corporate social responsibility ethos.

Future Prospects

With the mineralization potential demonstrated thus far, La Verde is emerging as a strategic asset poised for significant development. Furthermore, as Hot Chili prepares for a revised Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) for the Costa Fuego project, including La Verde, the emphasis will also extend to completing the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), scheduled for submission in the second quarter of 2027.

The La Verde project currently ranks among the five largest copper development projects globally that remain independent of major mining companies, underlining its significant market position.

In summary, Hot Chili’s La Verde project is gaining momentum, showcasing exceptional drilling results and strategic community engagement, making it a project to watch in the copper-gold mining sector.