Video News/Xplor 2026

Ore Group is expanding copper and gold exploration across Quebec's Chibougamau district as drilling activity, resource growth and corporate consolidation renew investment in the region. Speaking with Kitco Mining's Ernest Hoffman at XPLOR 2026 in Montreal, Founder and Chairman Stephen Stewart outlines XXIX Metal's approximately 65,000-meter drilling campaign across Opemiska and Cooke in Quebec and Thierry in Ontario. The program includes evaluating Cooke's potential as a second open-pit ore source ahead of Opemiska's planned 2027 pre-feasibility study. Stewart also discusses Auriginal Mining's 1.39-million-ounce inferred gold resource at Roger, additional drilling outside the estimate, XXIX's option to acquire the nearby Pluto property and IAMGOLD's consolidation in the district. Beyond Canada, Awalé Resources is advancing a 71,500-meter exploration program in Côte d'Ivoire. Despite recent mining-stock weakness, Stewart expects a five- to 10-year period of strength in metals, while warning that volatility will continue and could create acquisition opportunities for major producers.