Charles Funk, President and CEO of Heliostar Metals, leads operations and exploration in Mexico. He discusses a recent 60% production lift and plans to scale toward 300k–500k ounces this decade. They cover injection leaching at La Colorada, nine drill rigs turning for feasibility and resource growth, and strategic deals to manage non-core assets while navigating Mexico’s operating landscape.
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insights INSIGHT
Production Lift From Restarts And Nonreserve Ounces
Heliostar raised 2026 production guidance to 50–55k ounces driven by Sonora and Durango restarts.
Charles Funk says the company lifted production 60% and has generated $67M after-tax from non-reserve ounces since acquisitions.
insights INSIGHT
Injection Leaching Unlocks Pad Gold
Injection leaching at La Colorada is unlocking coarse-grained gold left in leach pads by resaturating deeper parts of the pad.
Funk reports the technique started three months ago and may deliver over half to two-thirds of 2026 production guidance.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Fund Growth With High Margin Ounces
Continue prioritizing low-cost, high-margin ounces to avoid unnecessary dilution or cost creep.
Funk emphasizes sub-$2,000 AISC and using cash flow to fund Annapala rather than equity raises.
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In this company update, we sit down with Charles Funk, President and CEO of Heliostar Metals (TSX-V: HSTR | OTCQX: HSTXF), to discuss the company’s current gold current gold operations and exploration in Mexico. Following a 60% increase in production guidance, Charles details how the team is optimizing operations in Mexico and leveraging innovative techniques to maximize production at high gold prices.
Key Discussion Points:
Production Growth and Guidance: Charles explains how the company has lifted production to 50-55,000 ounces this year from its Sonora and Durango mines, with a clear organic path to reach 300,000 ounces and an ultimate goal of 500,000 ounces by the end of the decade.
Innovation at La Colorada: A deep dive into the injection leaching process at the La Colorada leach pads, a low-cost method.
Aggressive Exploration Strategy: With nine drill rigs currently turning, the company is focusing on feasibility drilling at Ana Paula while simultaneously seeking to extend the mine life at San Agustin.
Strategic Asset Management: The reasoning behind the recent option agreement with Zacatecas Silver for non-core properties.
Jurisdictional Outlook in Mexico: An honest conversation regarding the current operating environment in Mexico and why Heliostar remains committed to the region despite broader market concerns.
Please email me at Fleck@kereport.com with any follow up questions for the team at Heliostar Metals.
Investment disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, an offer, or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or investment product. Investing in equities, commodities, really everything involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Do your own research and consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Guests and hosts may own shares in companies mentioned.
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