NOVAGOLD Announces Year-End Results and Future Growth Plans

NOVAGOLD Unveils Year-End Report with Strong Financial Position

Vancouver, British Columbia — NOVAGOLD RESOURCES INC. (“NOVAGOLD” or “the Company”) (NYSE American, TSX: NG) has filed its comprehensive fiscal year-end report for 2024, highlighting significant milestones achieved in its development project, Donlin Gold, which it owns in equal partnership with Barrick Gold Corporation.

This report reveals that as of the close of the fiscal year, NOVAGOLD maintained a robust treasury boasting approximately $101 million in cash and term deposits. Throughout the fiscal year, the company reported net cash expenditures totaling $24.5 million. These funds were allocated to advancing the Donlin Gold project, covering both operational costs and corporate administrative expenses, and fell under the budget estimate of $31.2 million. Given that NOVAGOLD is still in the development stage without active production, the company recorded an annual loss of $45.6 million, translating to earnings per share of $0.14.

Strategic Developments in 2024

During the past fiscal year, NOVAGOLD and its partners achieved several critical milestones in advancing the Donlin Gold project:

• Key technical activities were launched to enhance the project’s cost estimation process, including significant metallurgical testing conducted at a pilot plant in Ontario. Updates to the resource model alongside essential field data collection were also completed to inform operational and closure planning.
• Submission of preliminary design packages for Dam Safety Certification to relevant authorities signaled progress in regulatory compliance.
• Community engagement intensified through collaborations with local corporations and organizations, fostering cultural and ecological initiatives, including public outreach events conducted in various locations nearby the project.

Additionally, in September, NOVAGOLD and Barrick convened a workshop to evaluate progress and strategize on forthcoming endeavors for the Donlin Gold project.

2025 Budget and Activity Goals

For 2025, the Donlin Gold board has allocated a budget of $43 million aimed at key operational areas, including:

• Continued camp operations and grid drilling aimed at refining mine planning.
• Ongoing geotechnical engineering studies and project planning essentials.
• Advancement in securing necessary certifications related to dam safety and community relations.

Commitment to Sustainability and Community Engagement

As NOVAGOLD progresses with its initiatives, it puts a strong emphasis on ecological stewardship within the Yukon-Kuskokwim (Y-K) region. Recent years have seen a dedicated focus on salmon fisheries, crucial for both environmental health and local livelihoods. A salmon smolt monitoring program commenced, in partnership with local Native groups, aiming to assess and enhance salmon health and migration patterns. Efforts to restore damaged ecosystems were also set in motion, showcasing NOVAGOLD's commitment to sustaining community relationships and ecological responsibilities.

Regulatory Compliance and Challenges Addressed

NOVAGOLD has successfully navigated the complexities of state and federal regulatory compliance. In 2024, the Company proactively sought extensions on critical permits to maintain its operational readiness. This included extensions for air quality and waste management permits, demonstrating a commitment to maintaining essential authorizations to ensure the project’s successful execution.

Ongoing litigation efforts concerning existing certifications have progressed, reinforcing NOVAGOLD’s commitment to legal and environmental accountability in the execution of its projects.

Outlook for NOVAGOLD

As the gold market remains resilient, marked by a notable price surge reaching historic highs, NOVAGOLD is strategically positioned with one of the industry’s most promising gold assets. The Donlin Gold project, boasting over 39 million ounces of gold identified in measured and indicated resources, offers considerable potential within the expansive asset footprint yet to be explored.

The company’s approach to development is driven by principles of patience and environmental sustainability, ensuring that community partnerships are at the heart of its operations. With robust financial backing, NOVAGOLD is poised to navigate the next phase of its growth trajectory, reaffirming its commitment to delivering long-term value to stakeholders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key takeaways from NOVAGOLD's year-end report?

NOVAGOLD reported a solid financial position with over $101 million in treasury and net expenditures below budget. Significant milestones in Donlin Gold's development were also achieved.

How has NOVAGOLD engaged with local communities?

NOVAGOLD has actively collaborated with local corporations and Native groups, focusing on cultural awareness, ecological stewardship, and community outreach initiatives.

What are the main goals for NOVAGOLD in 2025?

The company aims to continue advancing the Donlin Gold project with a budget of $43 million, emphasizing key operational and compliance activities.

How does the gold market affect NOVAGOLD's strategy?

With gold prices reaching historic highs, NOVAGOLD's strategy focuses on maximizing asset value and ensuring sustainable development of its gold projects.

What resources does NOVAGOLD have for future projects?

NOVAGOLD has a strong treasury of over $100 million, enabling it to support project activities for the next two years at current expenditure levels.

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