Apex Critical Metals Commences Drilling at Nebraska Rare Earths Project

Apex Critical Metals CA03753D1042

Exploration activities are now underway at Apex Critical Metals' Rift project in Nebraska, marking a significant transition from planning to operational execution. The company has mobilized its first drill rig to site, initiating a campaign designed to test a known rare earth element (REE) mineralized zone.

Field preparations, including the construction of drill pads and equipment commissioning, are currently in progress. This work launches the Phase I program, which will specifically target a historical REE mineralization trend. A high-priority area, extending along approximately 850 meters of strike length, is the primary focus.

To accelerate the program, a second drill rig is scheduled to arrive at the project shortly. This addition is expected to increase the pace of operations and the volume of material available for subsequent analysis.

Program Details and Strategic Importance

The Phase I campaign involves a planned 8,000 meters of core drilling across 10 to 15 holes. Core drilling is a preferred method in mineral exploration as it provides continuous, intact rock samples. The data obtained will be crucial for Apex Critical Metals to refine its geological model and define future drill targets with greater precision.

Key parameters for the initial phase include:
* Meterage: Approximately 8,000 meters of core drilling
* Scope: 10 to 15 drill holes
* Objective: To verify and potentially expand the known historical REE mineralization
* Results Timeline: Laboratory assay results are anticipated in the first and second quarters of 2026

This operational start follows recent preparatory achievements. The company received the necessary exploration permit from the state of Nebraska in early January and subsequently contracted Boart Longyear as its drilling services provider.

Strategic Context and Market Dynamics

The company frames the drill program within a broader strategic context. In a statement dated January 19, Apex suggested that a successful Phase I campaign could position the Rift project as a prospective source for critical rare earth components.

This move aligns with favorable market fundamentals. Demand for critical minerals continues to rise, driven by their essential role in clean energy technologies and high-tech applications. Concurrently, increasing political and industrial pressure to build more stable and independent supply chains is drawing greater attention to exploration projects like Rift.

The company's shares have seen recent volatility. On Friday, the stock closed at €1.62, posting a daily gain of 6.16%. This advance occurred despite a decline of -13.65% over the preceding seven trading days.

The next concrete milestone is expected in the first half of 2026. The assay results from the Phase I program (Q1/Q2 2026) will determine whether the drilling has merely confirmed the known rare earth zones or has successfully identified additional mineralized material along the 850-meter trend.