Interview with Stephen Soock, VP Investor Relations & Development, Heliostar Metals

Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/heliostar-metals-tsxvhstr-self-funded-growth-fuels-push-to-300000-gold-ounces-per-annum-9450

Recording date: 20th May 2025

Heliostar Metals is advancing a multi-phase strategy to transform itself into a mid-tier gold producer, targeting annual output of 300,000 ounces by the end of the decade. The company’s recent performance highlights both operational momentum and financial strengthening, supported by three producing assets and a growing development pipeline.

In the first quarter of 2026, Heliostar produced 11,743 ounces of gold at all-in sustaining costs of $1,996 per ounce, generating $14 million in net income. Working capital increased significantly from $40 million to $70 million, reflecting strong cash flow even as the company continued investing in exploration and development. While costs benefited from temporary by-product credits, full-year guidance remains around $2,100 per ounce.

San Agustin has returned to production and is expected to deliver 50,000 to 55,000 ounces annually, with potential to extend its current 14-month mine life through ongoing drilling. At La Colorada, the company is transitioning to higher-grade sources while using innovative leaching techniques to extract additional value from existing material.

Heliostar’s flagship Ana Paula project in Mexico is central to its long-term growth. The underground development is advancing toward a feasibility study in mid-2027, with a construction decision to follow. The project targets annual production of 100,000 ounces by late 2028 and benefits from strong local support and existing infrastructure.

The recent acquisition of the Goldstrike project in Utah adds one million ounces of measured and indicated resources, enhancing future production optionality while preserving near-term capital through deferred payments.

Heliostar expects to generate approximately $150 million in internal cash flow over the next 2.5 years, funding much of its development pipeline. Combined with disciplined execution and selective financing, the company is positioning itself for sustained, self-funded growth.

Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/heliostar-metals