People
The people and firms behind the projects — renowned industry influencers, bellwether investors, and the investment firms that typically back junior mining deals.
Firms that regularly invest in junior mining projects, with their track record once we've researched it.
- Agnico Eagle Mines
Major gold producer that actively takes strategic equity stakes in promising junior explorers rather than only acquiring outright — e.g. increasing its stake in Foran Mining to 13.5% with enhanced governance rights.
A major's willingness to take a real equity position (not just an option/JV) is a strong due-diligence signal.
Website → - Barrick Mining
One of the largest gold (and copper) producers globally, historically active in acquiring and partnering with junior and mid-tier explorers to replace reserves as existing mines deplete.
Website → - Franco-Nevada Corporation
Gold-focused royalty and streaming company. Provides financing to strong teams with strong assets in exchange for royalties/streams rather than equity dilution — e.g. backing G Mining Ventures' Tocantinzinho construction and Discovery Silver's Porcupine acquisition.
Executed roughly US$1.8B in acquisitions recently, adding royalties on quality long-dated assets.
Website → - Newmont Corporation
World's largest gold mining company, with mines across Nevada, Ontario, Quebec, Ghana, Australia, Suriname and more. Its acquisition of Newcrest Mining created an industry-leading multi-decade gold and copper production profile.
Website → - Sprott Inc.
Resource-focused asset manager (Rick Rule's former employer, acquired his Global Resource Investments in 2011). Runs physical bullion trusts and resource-sector equity/lending strategies, and is a frequent financing source for junior mining raises.
Website → - Wheaton Precious Metals
One of the largest metal streaming companies — funds mine construction/expansion in exchange for a share of future production at a fixed cost, a lower-risk way for juniors to raise capital without pure equity dilution.
Website →