Hot Chili (HCH) Q4 2026 TU earnings summary

Executive summary

• La Verde copper-gold porphyry deposit is emerging as a cornerstone asset, with accelerated drilling and significant high-grade results reported during the quarter.

• Integration of La Verde into the Costa Fuego project is advancing, with a maiden Mineral Resource Estimate expected later this year and a revised Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) underway.

• Strategic partnering process continues, with new non-binding proposals received and ongoing due diligence by potential partners.

Financial highlights

• Cash position at 30 June 2026 was A$25 million, with no debt.

• Operating expenditure for the quarter included A$0.8 million in staff costs and A$1.6 million in administration and corporate costs.

• Investing expenditure included A$7.3 million for exploration and evaluation, mainly at La Verde.

• Additional US$15 million (A$21.4 million) non-dilutive funding secured via royalty agreement, bringing total OR royalty consideration to US$30 million.

Outlook and guidance

• La Verde's rapid integration is expected to be transformative for Costa Fuego's financial metrics and global standing.

• Revised PFS and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Costa Fuego are on track, with EIA submission targeted for Q2CY 2027.

• Company expects to receive an update on the Huasco Water desalination license application in the coming months.