Japan Gold (TSXV: JG | OTCQB: JGLDF) is entering what could be described as a “post-Barrick era.” After a five-year partnership with one of the world’s largest gold producers, the company and Barrick Gold have mutually agreed to conclude their alliance. While the news may strike some as bittersweet, the reality is more nuanced — and potentially very promising for shareholders.
On the surface, the loss of a major partner means Barrick will no longer be funding exploration programs across Japan. But the upside is substantial: Japan Gold now regains 100% ownership of its expansive portfolio of exploration properties, along with the benefit of over US$23 million in work that Barrick funded to global standards. In effect, the company has received a fully funded, country-wide exploration program that junior explorers could rarely execute on their own.
Through this work, Japan Gold compiled an extensive dataset covering some 3,000 square kilometers of mineral rights. Barrick’s systematic approach included nationwide stream-sediment sampling, rock sampling, and gravity geophysics. This effort helped narrow the field to the most prospective targets — including three projects identified as having the potential to host tier-one or tier-two ore bodies.
Now, Japan Gold stands ready to advance into the drilling phase with a complete portfolio in hand. The company has already begun drilling at its wholly owned Mizobe project, with initial results expected later this year. Looking ahead, investors can anticipate a steady news flow of drill results and project updates, while Japan Gold also keeps the door open for new partnerships with other majors.
To dive deeper into what this transition means for the company’s strategy, its portfolio, and its shareholders, we sat down with Japan Gold’s Chairman and CEO, John Proust.
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