Ivanhoe Mines increased its mineral resource estimate for the Makoko District in the Democratic Republic of Congo by 30%, with total contained copper now approximately 12 million tonnes. The deposit, part of the broader Western Forelands exploration project, includes 42 million tonnes of indicated resources grading 2.66% copper and 612 million tonnes of inferred resources grading 1.80%. Ivanhoe founder and executive co-chairman Robert Friedland said the company has seen increased discussions with Silicon Valley technology companies about offtake agreements and potential financing. Such agreements can secure future copper supplies for buyers while providing mining companies with contracts that support project financing. The development comes as copper prices have risen above $14,500 per tonne amid tight supply and the prospect of U.S. tariffs on refined metals. Ivanhoe has 60,000 metres of drilling results still to incorporate and is targeting a scoping study in the first quarter of 2027.