Erdene Announces Preliminary Economic Assessment Results for Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project

Original announcement by globenewswire on

Company
Erdene Resource Development Corp.
Ticker
ERD
Exchange
Unavailable
Region
Unavailable
Primary commodity
Molybdenum
Secondary commodities
Copper
Document categories
Other, Resource update, Metallurgy
Extracted
2026-10-14 23:01:51 UTC

Analysis by Minestarters Atlas

Atlas analysis published:

Minestarters Atlas analysis

Summary

Erdene Resource Development Corp. announced positive Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) results for its Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project, outlining a 34-year mine life with an after-tax NPV of US$745.1 million and an IRR of 16.1% at base case prices. The PEA incorporates an updated NI 43-101 compliant Mineral Resource Estimate, showing significant Measured, Indicated, and Inferred resources, and projects high metallurgical recoveries for both molybdenum and copper. While the study highlights compelling economics, a substantial portion of the mine plan relies on Inferred resources, indicating early-stage project confidence.

Reasoning: Erdene's PEA for the Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project demonstrates robust economics with a strong NPV and IRR, a long mine life, and high recoveries. The updated NI 43-101 compliant MRE provides a solid foundation, though the reliance on Inferred resources for a significant portion of the mine plan introduces a degree of risk typical for a PEA-stage project.

Positive factors

  • Strong after-tax NPV and IRR in base case and spot price scenarios
  • Long mine life of 34 years with significant metal production
  • Low strip ratio for open-pit mining
  • High metallurgical recoveries for both molybdenum and copper
  • High-grade concentrates with low deleterious elements
  • Updated Mineral Resource Estimate (MRE) prepared to NI 43-101 standards
  • Potential for resource expansion and conversion of Inferred to higher confidence categories

Negative factors

  • Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) is a Class 5 estimate with lower accuracy
  • Approximately 74% of the PEA plant feed is derived from Inferred Mineral Resources, which are speculative
  • Project-specific contractor tenders and equipment quotations not yet obtained for cost estimates

Low confidence — this extraction should be reviewed alongside the original source.

Facts used in scoring: 14

Classification and evidence

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: The document presents the results of a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for the project.

Evidence · text

“Erdene Announces Preliminary Economic Assessment Results for Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project”

Positive NPVpositive · Story-specific tag

No canonical definition is currently available.

Why it applies: The PEA reports an after-tax Net Present Value (NPV) of US$745.1 million at an 8% discount rate.

Evidence · table

“745.1”

Context: NPV 8%

Positive IRRpositive · Story-specific tag

No canonical definition is currently available.

Why it applies: The PEA reports an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 16.1% for the base case.

Evidence · table

“16.1%”

Context: IRR

Long Mine Lifepositive · Story-specific tag

No canonical definition is currently available.

Why it applies: The PEA outlines a 34-year mine life for the project.

Evidence · text

“34-year mine life”

Low Capexpositive · Story-specific tag

No canonical definition is currently available.

Why it applies: The pre-production capital costs are estimated at US$687 million, which is favorable relative to the project's NPV.

Evidence · table

“686.8”

Context: Pre-Production Capex

Low AISCpositive · Story-specific tag

No canonical definition is currently available.

Why it applies: The All-in Sustaining Cost (AISC) is estimated at US$13.89/lb molybdenum, which is competitive.

Evidence · table

“13.89”

Context: All-in Sustaining Cost (AISC)

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: The PEA includes an updated mineral resource estimate for the Zuun Mod deposit.

Evidence · text

“The technical report incorporates an updated mineral resource for the Zuun Mod deposit”

Inferred Resourcenegative

Speculative category — limited drilling, geological continuity assumed but not confirmed. Cannot support economic studies alone.

Why it applies: Approximately 74% of the PEA forecast plant feed is derived from Inferred Mineral Resources, which are considered speculative.

Evidence · text

“Approximately 74% of the PEA forecast plant feed, including approximately 16% of the plant feed scheduled during the six-year undiscounted payback period, is derived from Inferred Mineral Resources.”

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: The mineral resource estimate was compiled by Mr. Oyunbat Bat-Ochir, a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists and a Qualified Person.

Evidence · text

“The Statement of Estimates of Mineral Resources has been compiled by Mr. Oyunbat Bat-Ochir who is a full-time employee of SLR and a Member of the Australian Institute of Geoscientists.”

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: The PEA was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Evidence · text

“The PEA was prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”)”

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: The mineral resource estimate is reported at a cut-off grade of 0.025% Mo.

Evidence · text

“at a cut-off grade of 0.025% Mo”

High Recoverypositive

Recovery at or above the exceptional band for the commodity and processing route.

Why it applies: Molybdenum recovery is estimated at 88.4% and copper recovery at 89.6% to concentrate, which are strong for a flotation route.

Evidence · table

“88.4%”

Context: Molybdenum

Mill Routeneutral

Processing via mill or concentrator (CIL, CIP, tank leach, flotation).

Why it applies: The PEA contemplates a conventional copper–molybdenum concentrator processing with crushing, grinding, and flotation.

Evidence · text

“The PEA contemplates a conventional copper–molybdenum concentrator processing 25 Mtpa over a 34-year mine life.”

Free Millingpositive

Simple, clean ore amenable to standard processing without oxidation.

Why it applies: Metallurgical testwork indicates the potential to produce high-grade concentrates with low levels of deleterious elements.

Evidence · text

“Metallurgical testwork and recovery estimates by Blue Coast Research indicate Zuun Mod has the potential to produce high-grade molybdenum and copper concentrates with low levels of deleterious elements.”

Extracted facts

Stored fact records: 13. Some facts used in scoring do not have a stored record.

Resource Estimates (11)

measuredZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · molybdenumTonnes: 67200000Grade: 0.051Grade Unit: %Contained Metal: 75Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
molybdenum
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:550e8b3b09ff7d8fd38c
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
measured
Tonnes
67200000
Grade
0.051
Grade Unit
%
Contained Metal
75
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The Measured molybdenum resource provides a high-confidence base for the project, contributing to the overall economic assessment.

Positive factors

  • High confidence resource category (Measured)
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant

Evidence · table

“0.051”

Context: 67.2

Tags used in scoring

Measured Resourcepositive

Highest confidence category — tonnage, grade, shape well-established from closely-spaced drilling. Basis for Proven Reserves.

Why it applies: category is "measured"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

measuredZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · copperTonnes: 67200000Grade: 0.061Grade Unit: %Contained Metal: 90.5Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
copper
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:550e8b3b09ff7d8fd38c
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
measured
Tonnes
67200000
Grade
0.061
Grade Unit
%
Contained Metal
90.5
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The Measured copper resource provides a high-confidence base for the project, contributing to the overall economic assessment.

Positive factors

  • High confidence resource category (Measured)
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant

Evidence · table

“0.061”

Context: 67.2

Tags used in scoring

Measured Resourcepositive

Highest confidence category — tonnage, grade, shape well-established from closely-spaced drilling. Basis for Proven Reserves.

Why it applies: category is "measured"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

measuredZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · molybdenumTonnes: 67200000Contained Metal: 99.9Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
molybdenum
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:550e8b3b09ff7d8fd38c
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
measured
Tonnes
67200000
Contained Metal
99.9
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Metal Eq. Grade
0.067
Metal Eq. Unit
% MoEq
Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The Measured molybdenum equivalent resource provides a high-confidence base for the project, contributing to the overall economic assessment, with transparent assumptions.

Positive factors

  • High confidence resource category (Measured)
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant
  • Metal equivalent assumptions disclosed

Evidence · table

“0.067”

Context: 67.2

Tags used in scoring

Measured Resourcepositive

Highest confidence category — tonnage, grade, shape well-established from closely-spaced drilling. Basis for Proven Reserves.

Why it applies: category is "measured"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

indicatedZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · molybdenumTonnes: 339900000Grade: 0.047Grade Unit: %Contained Metal: 352Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
molybdenum
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:a8714ed1db66764e3782
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
indicated
Tonnes
339900000
Grade
0.047
Grade Unit
%
Contained Metal
352
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The Indicated molybdenum resource adds significant tonnage and metal to the project, supporting the PEA's economic viability.

Positive factors

  • Good confidence resource category (Indicated)
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant

Evidence · table

“0.047”

Context: 339.9

Tags used in scoring

Indicated Resourcepositive

Reasonable geological confidence based on adequate drilling; continuity can be assumed. Basis for Probable Reserves.

Why it applies: category is "indicated"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

indicatedZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · copperTonnes: 339900000Grade: 0.062Grade Unit: %Contained Metal: 463.2Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
copper
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:a8714ed1db66764e3782
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
indicated
Tonnes
339900000
Grade
0.062
Grade Unit
%
Contained Metal
463.2
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The Indicated copper resource adds significant tonnage and metal to the project, supporting the PEA's economic viability.

Positive factors

  • Good confidence resource category (Indicated)
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant

Evidence · table

“0.062”

Context: 339.9

Tags used in scoring

Indicated Resourcepositive

Reasonable geological confidence based on adequate drilling; continuity can be assumed. Basis for Probable Reserves.

Why it applies: category is "indicated"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

indicatedZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · molybdenumTonnes: 339900000Contained Metal: 479.4Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
molybdenum
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:a8714ed1db66764e3782
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
indicated
Tonnes
339900000
Contained Metal
479.4
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Metal Eq. Grade
0.064
Metal Eq. Unit
% MoEq
Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The Indicated molybdenum equivalent resource adds significant tonnage and metal to the project, supporting the PEA's economic viability, with transparent assumptions.

Positive factors

  • Good confidence resource category (Indicated)
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant
  • Metal equivalent assumptions disclosed

Evidence · table

“0.064”

Context: 339.9

Tags used in scoring

Indicated Resourcepositive

Reasonable geological confidence based on adequate drilling; continuity can be assumed. Basis for Probable Reserves.

Why it applies: category is "indicated"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

inferredZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · molybdenumTonnes: 596200000Grade: 0.041Grade Unit: %Contained Metal: 536.8Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
molybdenum
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:18b9924925e3bfa6e537
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
inferred
Tonnes
596200000
Grade
0.041
Grade Unit
%
Contained Metal
536.8
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The large Inferred molybdenum resource provides significant future potential but carries lower confidence, impacting the overall certainty of the PEA.

Positive factors

  • Significant tonnage in Inferred category
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant

Negative factors

  • Inferred resource category has lower geological confidence
  • Significant portion of PEA mine plan derived from Inferred resources

Evidence · table

“0.041”

Context: 596.2

Tags used in scoring

Inferred Resourcenegative

Speculative category — limited drilling, geological continuity assumed but not confirmed. Cannot support economic studies alone.

Why it applies: category is "inferred"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

inferredZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · copperTonnes: 596200000Grade: 0.056Grade Unit: %Contained Metal: 733.3Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
copper
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:18b9924925e3bfa6e537
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
inferred
Tonnes
596200000
Grade
0.056
Grade Unit
%
Contained Metal
733.3
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The large Inferred copper resource provides significant future potential but carries lower confidence, impacting the overall certainty of the PEA.

Positive factors

  • Significant tonnage in Inferred category
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant

Negative factors

  • Inferred resource category has lower geological confidence
  • Significant portion of PEA mine plan derived from Inferred resources

Evidence · table

“0.056”

Context: 596.2

Tags used in scoring

Inferred Resourcenegative

Speculative category — limited drilling, geological continuity assumed but not confirmed. Cannot support economic studies alone.

Why it applies: category is "inferred"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

inferredZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · molybdenumTonnes: 596200000Contained Metal: 783Contained Unit: mlbsView all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
molybdenum
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:18b9924925e3bfa6e537
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
inferred
Tonnes
596200000
Contained Metal
783
Contained Unit
mlbs
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Metal Eq. Grade
0.06
Metal Eq. Unit
% MoEq
Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The large Inferred molybdenum equivalent resource provides significant future potential but carries lower confidence, impacting the overall certainty of the PEA, despite transparent assumptions.

Positive factors

  • Significant tonnage in Inferred category
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant
  • Metal equivalent assumptions disclosed

Negative factors

  • Inferred resource category has lower geological confidence
  • Significant portion of PEA mine plan derived from Inferred resources

Evidence · table

“0.060”

Context: 596.2

Tags used in scoring

Inferred Resourcenegative

Speculative category — limited drilling, geological continuity assumed but not confirmed. Cannot support economic studies alone.

Why it applies: category is "inferred"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

indicatedZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · molybdenumTonnes: 407100000Grade: 0.048Grade Unit: %View all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
molybdenum
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:0f464d5cbd5c56860fdd
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
indicated
Tonnes
407100000
Grade
0.048
Grade Unit
%
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The Indicated molybdenum resource adds significant tonnage and metal to the project, supporting the PEA's economic viability. (Expanded from multi-commodity resource table for completeness.)

Positive factors

  • Good confidence resource category (Indicated)
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant

Evidence · table

“0.048”

Context: 407.1

Tags used in scoring

Indicated Resourcepositive

Reasonable geological confidence based on adequate drilling; continuity can be assumed. Basis for Probable Reserves.

Why it applies: category is "indicated"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

No Contained Metalnegative

Tonnage and grade reported but contained metal not calculated or disclosed — incomplete reporting.

Why it applies: contained_metal was not reported

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

indicatedZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · copperTonnes: 407100000Grade: 0.062Grade Unit: %View all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
copper
Ticker
ERD

Resource scope

Estimate type
resource
Reporting standards
ni_43_101
QP Signed
Yes
Qualified person names
Oyunbat Bat-Ochir
Resource group id
resource:0f464d5cbd5c56860fdd
Mining method
open_pit

Resource Data

Category
indicated
Tonnes
407100000
Grade
0.062
Grade Unit
%
Cutoff Grade
0.025
Cutoff Unit
% Mo

Prior Estimate

Resource Date
2026-05-01

Metal Equivalent

Assumptions Disclosed
Yes

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The Indicated molybdenum resource adds significant tonnage and metal to the project, supporting the PEA's economic viability. (Expanded from multi-commodity resource table for completeness.)

Positive factors

  • Good confidence resource category (Indicated)
  • Updated as part of a new PEA
  • QP/CP signed and NI 43-101 compliant

Evidence · table

“0.062”

Context: 407.1

Tags used in scoring

Indicated Resourcepositive

Reasonable geological confidence based on adequate drilling; continuity can be assumed. Basis for Probable Reserves.

Why it applies: category is "indicated"

Cut-off Disclosedpositive

Cut-off grade used for resource reporting is clearly stated, enabling like-for-like comparison.

Why it applies: cutoff_grade is stated

QP/CP Signedpositive

Qualified Person (QP) or Competent Person (CP) named and signed off — a member of a recognized professional association (e.g., AusIMM, SME, AIG, P.Geo) with relevant experience.

Why it applies: qp_signed is true

NI 43-101 Compliantpositive

Resource estimate prepared in compliance with NI 43-101 (Canada) — high reporting standard.

Why it applies: reporting_standards includes ni_43_101

No Contained Metalnegative

Tonnage and grade reported but contained metal not calculated or disclosed — incomplete reporting.

Why it applies: contained_metal was not reported

Resource Updateneutral

Revised estimate for an existing resource — compare to prior to assess progress.

Why it applies: the release compares against a previous estimate

PEA-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Preliminary Economic Assessment — early-stage study.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

PFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Pre-Feasibility Study — requires adequate M&I component.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

DFS-Supportingneutral

Resource estimate prepared to support a Definitive Feasibility Study — requires high M&I confidence.

Why it applies: the release names the study this estimate supports

Metallurgical Results (2)

flotationZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · molybdenumRecovery: 88.4 %View all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
molybdenum
Ticker
ERD

Test Work

Program Status
preliminary
Test Type
flotation
Processing Route
conventional crushing and grinding, SABC, bulk flotation, regrind, molybdenum flotation

Recovery

Recovery
88.4 %
Recovery Basis
to_concentrate
Conc. Grade
53.2
Conc. Grade Unit
%

Lab

Laboratory
Blue Coast Research Ltd.
Consultant
Tetra Tech Coffey Pty Ltd

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The high molybdenum recovery and concentrate grade indicate favorable metallurgical characteristics for the project, supporting the PEA's economic assumptions.

Positive factors

  • High recovery for molybdenum
  • High concentrate grade
  • Low deleterious elements in concentrate

Evidence · table

“88.4%”

Context: Molybdenum

Tags used in scoring

Mill Routeneutral

Processing via mill or concentrator (CIL, CIP, tank leach, flotation).

Why it applies: processing_route matches the flotation signal

flotationZuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project · copperRecovery: 89.6 %View all details
Link to this fact

Identity

Project
Zuun Mod Molybdenum-Copper Project
Commodity
copper
Ticker
ERD

Test Work

Program Status
preliminary
Test Type
flotation
Processing Route
conventional crushing and grinding, SABC, bulk flotation, regrind, molybdenum flotation

Recovery

Recovery
89.6 %
Recovery Basis
to_concentrate
Conc. Grade
27.9
Conc. Grade Unit
%

Lab

Laboratory
Blue Coast Research Ltd.
Consultant
Tetra Tech Coffey Pty Ltd

Review

Needs Review
No
Historical
No

Dates

Event date
2026-10-14T00:00:00.000Z

Reasoning: The high copper recovery and concentrate grade indicate favorable metallurgical characteristics for the project, supporting the PEA's economic assumptions.

Positive factors

  • High recovery for copper
  • High concentrate grade
  • Deleterious elements below smelter penalty thresholds

Evidence · table

“89.6%”

Context: Copper

Tags used in scoring

Mill Routeneutral

Processing via mill or concentrator (CIL, CIP, tank leach, flotation).

Why it applies: processing_route matches the flotation signal

How Atlas produces this analysis

Minestarters Atlas uses automated extraction to summarize mining announcements, identify reported measurements, and classify supporting evidence. Sentiment reflects the extracted narrative and classification rules; it is an interpretation, not a reported measurement. Evidence quotes and context are provided where available. Missing data, low-confidence results, and review flags indicate limitations. Check the original publisher announcement before relying on an interpretation.