Strategic Stake Expansion by Zimtu Capital in Apex Critical Metals

A significant increase in institutional ownership is converging with tangible corporate progress at Apex Critical Metals, presenting a notable development for market observers. The strategic decision by Zimtu Capital Corp. to substantially enlarge its position, timed alongside operational milestones, raises questions about the underlying investment thesis and future momentum.

The recent shift in ownership structure was triggered not by open market purchases, but through a strategic financial instrument. Zimtu Capital Corp. elected to exercise warrants at a predetermined price of US$0.06667 per share. This transaction injected approximately US$160,000 into Apex Critical Metals and resulted in the issuance of 2.4 million new common shares.

This move has materially altered the share registry. Zimtu's stake in the company's outstanding common shares has risen from a previous 7.75% to 10.87% on an undiluted basis. This acquisition represented an increase exceeding two percentage points, necessitating an early-warning regulatory filing.

The key figures of the transaction are:

• Shares Acquired: 2,400,000
• Previous Holding: 5,547,216 shares (7.75%)
• Revised Holding: 7,947,216 shares (10.87%)

In its disclosure, Zimtu stated the shares were acquired for investment purposes, reserving the right to adjust its position further in the future.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Apex Critical Metals?

Operational Momentum at the Rift Project

The timing of this investment is particularly interesting given concurrent advances in Apex's core project. The company is advancing its Rift Rare Earth Project located in Nebraska, USA. A key regulatory hurdle was cleared on January 5, 2026, when the company received an exploration permit for the project area—a formal but critical step enabling the next phase of work.

Shortly thereafter, Apex secured a contract with drilling services specialist Boart Longyear. The planned program entails 8,000 meters of drilling, with mobilization expected to commence before the end of January 2026. This schedule sets the stage for initial drill results in the coming weeks, which could serve as a potential catalyst for the stock.

Market Performance and Outlook

The combination of heightened institutional interest and project advancement has been reflected in the equity's trading activity. Over the preceding 30-day period, the share price appreciated by more than 70%, reaching €2.21 as of Wednesday. Despite this rally, the price remains approximately 25% below its 52-week high of €3.00.

The coming weeks are poised to be event-rich for Apex Critical Metals, featuring the enlarged Zimtu stake, the secured exploration permit, and the imminent commencement of drilling. The fundamental value proposition, however, will likely be determined by the geological results from the Rift Project. These findings will be crucial in assessing whether the current blend of investor confidence and operational progress can translate into sustained value creation for the company.