Rimfire Pacific Mining Limited announced a strategic transaction on 23 May 2025 that signals a sharpening of its focus on scandium development. The company has entered into an Option to Purchase Agreement for its Cowal Copper Gold Project, located east of the Cowal Gold Mine in central New South Wales, with Copper Search Limited through its wholly owned subsidiary, Altitude Gold Pty Ltd. As per the agreement, Copper Search will have an exclusive six‐month option period to conduct due diligence on the project, with the possibility of extending this period for an additional three months in exchange for additional fees. The overall transaction value is estimated to be up to $700,000, based on the successful achievement of various milestones. Under the terms of the arrangement, Copper Search is required to pay a $50,000 cash option fee to Rimfire to initiate the due diligence period. If the option is exercised, a further upfront payment of $200,000, which may partly consist of Copper Search shares, will be made to Rimfire. An additional payment of $200,000 is scheduled if a JORC Mineral Resource Estimate is publicly released, and if the project delivers 50,000 ounces of gold or an equivalent value of another mineral, a further $250,000 payment will be triggered. Additionally, Rimfire is expected to address a royalty obligation by executing an Assumption Deed with Sandfire Resources Limited, ensuring that a previously owed 2% net smelter return is appropriately transferred. This move comes at a time when global scandium supply is under pressure due to recent export restrictions imposed by China. Rimfire’s Managing Director, Mr David Hutton, stressed that the transaction is not only a financial maneuver but part of a broader strategy to secure a substantial and low-risk supply of scandium from the famed Fifield District—one of the primary regions for the critical metal in Australia. In assessing market sentiment, there is a bullish perspective centered on the company’s deliberate pivot to a high-value mineral amid tightening global supply conditions. The collaboration with an experienced technical team and the structured milestone payments add confidence for investors looking toward long-term growth in a niche yet increasingly important segment of the resources market. Conversely, a bearish sentiment may be noted given the inherent risks associated with early-stage project exploration and the reliance on future commodity performance. Delays in due diligence outcomes or milestone achievements could temper investor enthusiasm in the short term. The success of this venture will likely hinge on effective project execution and favorable market conditions for scandium, ensuring that the long-term strategic objectives align with investor expectations.