The S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries Index closed at 3,627.40, up 7.30 points or 0.20% yesterday, bringing its five-day gain to 23.70 points or 0.66%.
With the broader market steady, several small-cap companies have reported soild developments this morning. You can read about the following and more throughout the day.
Altech Batteries performance results
Altech Batteries Ltd (ASX:ATC, OTC:ALTHF) reported the latest performance outcomes for its CERENERGY® cell and battery pack prototypes. The results confirm the technological maturity and robustness of the CERENERGY® technology, marking another step towards industrialisation. The prototype cells have successfully completed more than 650 charge–discharge cycles without any detectable capacity loss, underscoring their stability and potential for long operational lifespans. For stationary energy storage systems, this could reduce replacement needs, cut operating costs and enhance reliability.
Askari Metals divests gold subsidiary
Askari Metals Ltd (ASX:AS2) has entered into a binding share sale agreement with Forrestania Resources Limited (ASX: FRS) to sell 100% of the shares in First Western Gold Pty Ltd. First Western holds eight tenements in Western Australia, including the Burracoppin Gold Project with a JORC (2012) mineral resource estimate of 2.14 million tonnes at 1.2 grams per tonne gold for 82,700 ounces. The transaction, valued at A$700,000, includes A$250,000 in cash and A$450,000 in shares, with settlement expected before the end of September 2025.
Ora Banda updates resources and reserves
Ora Banda Mining Ltd (ASX:OBM, OTC:ESGFF) has released its annual mineral resource and ore reserve statement. Total mineral resources stand at 26.8 million tonnes at 2.4 grams per tonne for 2.11 million ounces, up 160,000 ounces after mining 108,000 ounces since June 2024. Notably, Riverina and Sand King underground resources both posted increases, while total ore reserves rose 24% to 3.0 million tonnes at 2.4 grams per tonne for 236,000 ounces. The company noted that ore reserve cut-off grades are based on a A$2,500 per ounce gold price to ensure focus on higher-margin ounces.
Ionic Rare Earths launches rights issue
Ionic Rare Earths Ltd (ASX:IXR, OTC:IXRRF) has announced a one-for-15 renounceable rights issue at 1.6 cents per share to raise up to approximately A$6 million before costs. For each new share subscribed, shareholders will receive one option exercisable at 2.5 cents, expiring on 30 September 2028, with quotation to be sought on the ASX. The company has also secured commitments of A$1.125 million from institutional, sophisticated and professional investors and executives in a placement on the same terms.