Holdings in exchange-traded funds backed by bullion extended gains to the highest since April 2013.

As the global demand for base metals grows, the mining industry is on the hunt for new deposits that can be developed into operating mines.

The Vancouver-based miner wants to position itself as one of the larger non-producing palladium explorers in North America.

Palladium still the highest valued precious metal.

The join venture entered into an agreement with Florida International University to further advance a research program.

So far this year, the company has drilled 34 holes totaling 15,451 metres on the East Mine Block.

The Eland mine had been placed on care and maintenance in 2015 due to a price fall and difficult operating conditions.

Local exploration and development junior, Generation Mining, will earn a 51% in the Marathon project, in northern Ontario.