Lithium Reclaims Its Role as a Critical Growth Metal as Miners Ramp Up Operations in 2026

Executive Summary

• US Critical Metals Corp. reports key 2025 milestones—including a $510,000 private placement, acquisition of full ownership of the Clayton Ridge Lithium Project, and an amendment to secure 100% interest in McDermitt East.
• The company outlines its 2026 exploration plan for McDermitt East, targeting geological mapping, surface sampling, and a maiden drill program later in the year.
• Highlights strong lithium grades (up to 2,129 ppm) from prior trench‑dump sampling and positions the project adjacent to Thacker Pass, which is slated for initial production in 2027.

Key Details

• Financing: Closed a $510,000 private placement to fund corporate development and U.S. critical minerals portfolio expansion.
• Ownership Structure – McDermitt East: Current operating ownership at 50%; option to acquire remaining 50% for CAD $500,000 (cash or shares).
• Acquisition: Completed purchase of 100% interest in the Clayton Ridge Lithium Project after satisfying option agreement terms.
• Exploration Results (2023‑24): Trench‑dump sampling returned anomalous lithium values up to 2,129 ppm, the highest recorded at McDermitt East.
• 2026 Exploration Plan:
• Conduct additional geological mapping and surface sampling in early 2026.
• Refine and prioritize drill targets across high‑prospectivity zones.
• Target completion of a maiden drill program within 2026.
• Strategic Context: McDermitt East lies ~19 km from Lithium Americas’ Thacker Pass project, which is expected to begin production in 2027 with DOE and GM backing.
• Management Commentary (CEO Darren Collins): Emphasized the transitional nature of 2025, asset‑base strengthening, simplification of ownership structures, and positioning for a constructive lithium market backdrop in 2026.

Notable Quotes

“2025 was a highly transitional and foundational year for USCM… By securing a clear path to 100% ownership at McDermitt East, completing the Clayton Ridge acquisition, advancing Long Canyon with encouraging multi‑commodity results, and strengthening our balance sheet, we have materially aligned the Company with its strategic objectives.” – Darren Collins, CEO & Director

“As we commence 2026, USCM is well positioned to capitalize on a more constructive lithium market backdrop… Our planned 2026 exploration program at McDermitt East is designed to efficiently advance the project toward a maiden drill program and position USCM for the next phase of growth.” – Darren Collins, CEO & Director