The S&P/ASX Small Ordinaries Index fell 30.70 points, or 0.83%, to close at 3,647.10 on Wednesday, though it remains 0.64% higher over the past five days. Against this backdrop, several companies have delivered important updates this morning. You can read about these and more throughout the day.
AuKing Mining Limited
AuKing Mining Ltd (ASX:AKN) confirmed a binding heads of agreement to acquire 100% of Orion Resources Pty Ltd, securing full ownership of the Cloncurry Gold Project in north-west Queensland. The project has previously delivered high-grade gold results and indicates potential for an iron oxide copper gold (IOCG) system, offering both near-term production opportunities and longer-term exploration upside.
Critical Resources Limited
Critical Resources Ltd (ASX:CRR) reported soil geochemistry results from its 100%-owned Amoco Gold-Antimony Project in New South Wales. The assays highlighted large-scale gold, antimony and arsenic anomalies aligned with key regional structures. With regulatory approvals in place and a drill contractor secured, the company is positioned to advance exploration activities.
Buru Energy Limited
Buru Energy Ltd (ASX:BRU, OTC:BRNGF) received approval from the Western Australia Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration for its Well Drilling Environment Plan covering the Rafael resource appraisal campaign. Drilling is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2026, pending the conclusion of funding partner arrangements.
Lithium Universe Limited
Lithium Universe Ltd (ASX:LU7, OTC:LUVSF) said recent trials using its proprietary Jet Electrochemical Silver Extraction (JESE) method produced silver of 95.95% purity in a short processing time. This level of quality is comparable to Britannia-grade silver, historically recognised as a high-quality alloy. The company noted the results reinforced the potential of the JESE technology to deliver both commercial and environmental benefits, highlighting its efficiency and capacity to achieve high-purity outcomes.