Apex Critical Metals Prepares for Inaugural Drilling Campaign as Major Investor Boosts Stake

Apex Critical Metals CA03753D1042

The operational tempo is set to increase for Apex Critical Metals as the company finalizes preparations to commence its maiden drilling program in Nebraska. This pivotal step forward coincides with a significant vote of confidence from a key institutional shareholder, which has substantially increased its equity position in the explorer.

On January 12, 2026, Apex Critical Metals announced the formal engagement of Boart Longyear as the drilling contractor for its Rift Rare Earth Project. The necessary permit for the work had been secured a week earlier, on January 5. The selection of this globally recognized contractor underscores the technical scope of the planned exploration activities.

The initial phase of the campaign is structured with the following parameters:
* Commencement: Scheduled for January 2026.
* Location: The Elk Creek Carbonatite Complex in Nebraska, a region noted for its potential in rare earth elements and niobium.
* Program Scale: An estimated 8,000 meters of drilling across 10 to 15 separate holes.

Institutional Investor Zimtu Capital Expands Holdings

In a closely timed move, Zimtu Capital Corp. reported the acquisition of an additional 2.4 million shares of Apex Critical Metals on January 14, 2026. This transaction was executed through the exercise of warrants. Following this purchase, Zimtu’s total holding rises to nearly 8 million shares, representing approximately 10.87% of the company’s outstanding share capital.

Market observers often interpret such a substantial position increase by a seasoned institutional investor, occurring just days before a major operational milestone, as a strong signal of confidence in the company’s near-term prospects.

Share Price in Consolidation Phase Ahead of Activity

As of the close of trading on Friday, January 16, 2026, Apex Critical Metals shares were quoted at €2.19 on the Frankfurt exchange. Following a period of notable gains in preceding months, the equity is currently undergoing a phase of price consolidation.

With all permits in hand, a contractor mobilized, and reinforced institutional support, the stage is now set for Apex Critical Metals to begin its field work. The focus in the immediate weeks will shift to the mobilization of the drilling crew and the initial visual inspection of core samples retrieved from the site.