US$50m equity boost as Ioneer (Nasdaq: IONR) advances Rhyolite Ridge and wins court backing
Filing Impact
Filing Sentiment
Form Type
6-K
Rhea-AI Filing Summary
Ioneer Ltd reported its March 2026 quarter, highlighting project, financing and permitting milestones for the Rhyolite Ridge lithium-boron project. The company completed an equity placement of 400,000,000 new shares for gross proceeds of A$72 million (about US$50 million), lifting cash and cash equivalents to US$61.863 million as of 31 March 2026.
Net operating cash outflow was US$1.768 million, with a further US$2.057 million capitalised into exploration and evaluation. This supports an estimated 16.2 quarters of funding at current spending levels. A U.S. federal court upheld the project’s federal Record of Decision, though opponents have appealed to the Ninth Circuit.
Ioneer advanced strategic partnering discussions expected to conclude by the end of the June quarter, continued environmental permitting compliance, reported no workplace injuries, and progressed conservation work for Tiehm’s buckwheat. Pre‑feasibility studies on battery-grade lithium carbonate and boron carbide remain targeted for completion by the end of Q2 2026.
Positive
- Stronger liquidity and long runway: Equity proceeds of about US$50 million lifted cash and cash equivalents to US$61.863 million at 31 March 2026, supporting an estimated 16.2 quarters of funding at current operating and exploration spending levels.
- Key permitting win for Rhyolite Ridge: The U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada upheld the Bureau of Land Management’s Record of Decision on 31 March 2026, confirming federal environmental law compliance and supporting the project’s fully permitted status.
- Advancing technical and growth studies: Ioneer is preparing a pre‑feasibility study for battery‑grade lithium carbonate and has engaged Fluor Corporation for a boron carbide pre‑feasibility study, both planned for completion by the end of Q2 2026, which could broaden future product offerings.
Negative
- Ongoing legal appeal risk: Environmental groups appealed the District Court’s decision to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit on 9 April 2026, creating continued legal uncertainty for Rhyolite Ridge despite the company not expecting construction delays.
- Shareholder dilution from capital raise: The February 2026 placement of 400,000,000 new ordinary shares at A$0.18 per share, while strengthening liquidity, materially increases the share count and dilutes existing holders’ ownership percentages.
Insights
Capital raise strengthens liquidity while Rhyolite Ridge advances under legal and technical milestones.
Ioneer raised about US$50 million via an equity placement, boosting quarter-end cash to US$61.863 million. Quarterly operating outflows of US$1.768 million and capitalised exploration of US$2.057 million translate to an estimated 16.2 quarters of funding at current spend.
The Rhyolite Ridge project gained legal support as the U.S. District Court upheld the federal Record of Decision, confirming agency compliance with key environmental laws. An appeal to the Ninth Circuit introduces ongoing legal overhang, although the company states construction commencement is not expected to be delayed.
Strategic partnering remains central: a formal process launched in June 2025 is expected to conclude by the end of the June 2026 quarter, potentially influencing the timing of a Final Investment Decision. In parallel, pre‑feasibility studies for battery-grade lithium carbonate and defence‑grade boron carbide, both targeted for completion by Q2 2026, could shape future product mix and revenue streams.
Key Figures
Equity placement proceeds: A$72 million (~US$50 million)
Quarter-end cash: US$61.863 million
Operating cash outflow: US$1.768 million
+5 more
8 metrics
Equity placement proceeds
A$72 million (~US$50 million)
Gross proceeds from February 2026 share placement
Quarter-end cash
US$61.863 million
Cash and cash equivalents as of 31 March 2026
Operating cash outflow
US$1.768 million
Net cash used in operating activities, March 2026 quarter
Capitalised exploration & evaluation
US$2.057 million
Cash used in investing for exploration and evaluation, quarter
Funding runway
16.2 quarters
Estimated quarters of funding available based on Item 8.7
Lithium carbonate price
US$21,000/tonne
Median CIF Asia battery-grade spot price as of 31 March 2026
Lithium hydroxide price
US$20,250/tonne
Median CIF Asia battery-grade spot price as of 31 March 2026
China boron imports
53,462 tonnes
Chinese boron imports Jan–Feb 2026, up 6.7% year-on-year
Key Terms
Record of Decision, National Environmental Policy Act, Final Investment Decision, pre-feasibility study, +2 more
6 terms
Record of Decision regulatory
"The Bureau of Land Management issued a favourable Record of Decision on 24 October 2024"
A record of decision is an official written statement from a government regulator that explains and finalizes its approval or denial of a proposed project after reviewing environmental and legal factors. For investors, it matters because it removes a major regulatory uncertainty — like a referee’s final whistle — allowing a project to move forward, be funded, or be halted, which can change timelines, costs, and potential liabilities.
National Environmental Policy Act regulatory
"completing the National Environmental Policy Act process"
A U.S. law that requires federal agencies to evaluate and disclose the likely environmental effects of major projects and decisions before they proceed. For investors, that review can delay approvals, add compliance costs, or change project plans—like a required safety inspection that can uncover problems or require fixes before construction continues—so NEPA processes are a key source of timing, cost and legal risk for projects involving federal permits or funding.
Final Investment Decision financial
"advancing our unique project to a positive Final Investment Decision"
A final investment decision is the point at which a person or organization chooses to move forward with a particular project or purchase after reviewing all the necessary information and options. It is like deciding to buy a house after considering all the costs, benefits, and alternatives. This decision is important because it determines whether and when the investment will be made, impacting future financial plans and outcomes.
pre-feasibility study technical
"Ioneer is preparing a pre-feasibility study for a battery-grade lithium carbonate circuit"
A pre-feasibility study is an initial assessment that evaluates whether a proposed project or investment idea is worth exploring further. It involves examining basic factors like costs, potential benefits, and possible challenges, similar to conducting a preliminary check before deciding to invest more time and resources. This helps investors determine if pursuing the project further is practical and likely to be successful.
Energy Dominance Finance Program financial
"closed a US$996 million loan with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Dominance Finance Program"
Appendix 5B regulatory
"Appendix 5B Mining exploration entity or oil and gas exploration entity quarterly cash flow report"
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 6-K
REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the month of April 2026
Commission File Number: 001-41412
ioneer Ltd
(Translation of registrant’s name into English)
Suite 16.01, 213 Miller Street
North Sydney, NSW, 2060, Australia
(Address of principal executive offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.
Form 20-F ☒ Form 40-F ☐
EXHIBIT INDEX
The following exhibits are filed as part of this Form 6-K:
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Exhibit
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Description
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99.1
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Quarterly Report for the Period ended March 31, 2026
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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
|
ioneer Ltd
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|||
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(registrant)
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|||
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Date: April 30, 2026
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By:
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/s/ April Hashimoto |
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Name:
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April Hashimoto | |
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Title:
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Chief Financial Officer |
Exhibit 99.1
 |
 |
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QUARTERLY ACTIVITIES REPORT
For the period ending 31 March 2026
Highlights
• Completed an equity raise for approximately US$50 million (A$72 million) with participation from new and existing shareholders, including high quality offshore and domestic institutions.
• Company in a strong financial position through completion of the
Strategic Partnering Process, a Final Investment Decision and Early Construction Works.
• The U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada upheld the federal permit for Rhyolite
Ridge.
• Issued the Technical Report under Subpart 1300 of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Regulations S-K, incorporating the materially improved project
economics due to reduction in leach duration.
• Ongoing engagement with U.S. Government and potential strategic partners.
|
30 April 2026 – Ioneer Ltd (“Ioneer”
or the “Company”) (ASX: INR, Nasdaq: IONR), an emerging lithium-boron supplier, is pleased to report on its activities for the quarter ending 31 March 2026 (the “March 2026 Quarter”) and provide an update on the development of its 100%-owned Rhyolite
Ridge Lithium-Boron Project (“Rhyolite Ridge” or the “Project”).
Bernard Rowe, Ioneer’s Managing Director, said, “Our successful capital raise combined with Rhyolite Ridge’s fully permitted and shovel-ready status continues to position Ioneer favourably for the future.
We are intensely focused on concluding the strategic partnering process and advancing our unique project to a positive Final Investment Decision.”
Equity financing completed for US$50 million (A$72 million)
In February 2026, Ioneer issued 400,000,000 fully paid ordinary shares (“New Shares”) at an issue price of A$0.18 (~US$0.13) per New Share for gross proceeds of
A$72 million (approximately US$50 million) (the “Placement”). New and existing shareholders strongly supported the Placement, reflecting the world class nature of the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project (the “Project” or “Rhyolite Ridge”).
The Placement proceeds will primarily be used to accelerate the development of the Rhyolite Ridge project for:
| • |
Long lead items and early works;
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| • |
Advance project readiness;
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 |
 |
| • |
Fund environmental permitting expenses and commitments;
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| • |
Pay other Project costs; and
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| • |
Fund working capital, obligations under the closed DOE loan and general corporate purposes.
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Government and Strategic Partner Engagement
In June 2025, Ioneer launched a formal strategic partnering process to identify a strong equity partner to help accelerate the development of Rhyolite Ridge and
advance the Project into production. In late 2025, the company’s partnering strategy evolved in response to several catalysts including U.S. Government support for other domestic critical minerals projects, trade negotiations with key allied
countries including Korea and Japan and the inclusion of boron on the critical minerals list. A consortium approach is a more likely outcome as opposed to a single strategic partner.
Ioneer is in active discussions with multiple parties and the process is expected to conclude by the end of the June quarter. Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC is assisting Ioneer with the strategic partnering process.
Rhyolite Ridge Permitting
The Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”) issued a favourable Record of Decision (“ROD”) on 24 October 2024, authorizing the Plan of Operations and completing the
National Environmental Policy Act (“NEPA”) process.
In October 2024, three non-governmental organizations (Center for Biological Diversity, Great Basin Resource Watch and Western Shoshone Defense Project)
(collectively, the “Plaintiffs”) filed a federal lawsuit against the BLM decision.
On 31 March 2026, The U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada (“U.S. District Court”) issued its decision in this lawsuit, upholding the BLM decision to
issue the ROD. The Court found that the BLM and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service complied with the Endangered Species Act, Federal Land Policy and Management Act, and National Environmental Policy Act in their review and approval of the Project.
On 9 April 2026, the Plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal of the U.S. District Court’s decision to the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. The
timing of the process is outside of the Company’s control; however, a decision is anticipated in mid-2027. The appeal is not expected to delay commencement of construction.
Sales & Marketing
Lithium Market and Price
Lithium markets have strengthened materially from last year, with industry data and analysis indicating a demand recovery led by stationary energy storage.
Demand for battery energy storage systems has continued to rise rapidly, driven by improved economics for load shifting, growing data centre power needs, and broader demand for behind-the-meter industrial-scale energy solutions.
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2
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Entering 2026, Year-over-year global electric vehicle demand growth remained pressured by government policy shifts in China and the United States, as well as
weaker consumer confidence. However, geopolitical events in the Middle East have renewed focus on energy prices and energy security, contributing to increased order activity exiting the quarter. These demand trends, combined with supply disruptions
in China and Zimbabwe, suggest a much-improved environment for lithium supply growth.
Analysts are reconsidering long-held pessimism regarding lithium market imbalances and are increasingly focused on potential shortages around the expected start
of Rhyolite Ridge production. These factors have improved long-term product price expectations and support our efforts to attract strategic equity partners to the Project.
Based on Fastmarkets spot prices, the median CIF Asia prices as of 31 March 2026, for battery-grade lithium carbonate and hydroxide were
US$21,000/tonne and US$20,250/tonne, respectively.
Boric Acid Market and Price
Boric acid demand is expected to continue to grow, driven by strong demand from the consumer electronics sector (Thin Film Transistor display
glass substrates), the military (ferroboron and boron carbide), and the construction industry (insulation and ceramics). China, the largest boron consumer and net importer, with
approximately a 50% share, continued to grow imports in January and February, totalling 53,462 tonnes compared with 50,086 tonnes in the same period in the prior year, representing 6.7% growth.
The boric acid price has been stable, with average Asian and US prices slightly higher, as Rio Tinto price increases have offset Eti Maden's slight price
reductions and gains in market share in China.
Environmental, Health, Safety & Sustainability (EHSS) Program
Environmental Regulatory Compliance
Ioneer continues to maintain compliance with the issued State of Nevada Water Pollution Control Permit, Class 2 Air Permit and newly acquired State Reclamation
permit. No compliance issues were noted during the March 2026 Quarter and Ioneer continues to report ongoing monitoring and compliance related activities as required under these obligations.
Health & Safety
During the quarter, Ioneer reported no lost time incidents, first aid incidents, or fatalities for Ioneer employees.
Tiehm’s buckwheat
Tiehm’s buckwheat conservation efforts continued at the Company’s dedicated greenhouse in Nevada. Efforts focused on the germination and propagation of new
seedlings and supporting the flowering and pollination of existing plants. The Company continues to demonstrate the ability to grow and reproduce Tiehm’s buckwheat from seed in a variety of soil types, including soils that are low in both lithium and boron.
The Company’s greenhouse operates as a foundational component of Ioneer’s Tiehm’s buckwheat conservation efforts. During the quarter, activities focused on
enhancing data collection initiatives and maximizing available space for plant growth and seed production. Ioneer continues to work closely with the BLM and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (“USFWS”) to finalize the Tiehm’s buckwheat
Applicant‑Proposed Conservation Measure protocol and procedure documents, as outlined in the BLM Record of Decision and the USFWS Biological Opinion.
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3
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During the quarter, Ioneer worked with relevant U.S. agencies to prioritize required studies and approvals for the Tiehm’s Buckwheat Introduction Program. This
program will introduce experimental populations of Tiehm’s buckwheat on public lands outside the Rhyolite Ridge Project area.
Initial plantings of Tiehm’s buckwheat are scheduled to commence in Spring 2026, followed by Fall and Spring planting programs for the next five to 10 years.
These efforts are intended to support the establishment of self‑sustaining populations and to enhance redundancy, representation, and resilience of the species.
Community & Tribal Nations
Ioneer continues to engage with local communities and Tribal Nations to address any environmental and social concerns and enhance local economic opportunities.
In January, the Company was pleased to host a Community Meeting in Fish Lake Valley, Nevada. Ioneer’s Managing Director and other members of the Ioneer management team provided an update on the Rhyolite Ridge Project and heard directly from local
stakeholders. We continue to incorporate feedback to help ensure the community maximizes the benefits from the project.
Engineering
An updated technical report under Subpart 1300 of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Regulation S-K incorporating the impact of the reduced leach duration to 1.5
days was completed and filed by the Company on 29 April 2026 (per company announcement dated 29 October 2025).
Ioneer is preparing a pre-feasibility study for a battery-grade lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) circuit to evaluate potential production of
battery grade Li2CO3. This work is in addition to currently planned production of technical grade Li2CO3 and lithium hydroxide. The battery grade Li2CO3 pre-feasibility study is
planned to be completed by the end of Q2 2026.
Organic Growth Projects
EcoPro Lithium Clay Project
EcoPro completed its Lithium Clay Research & Development project at the end of December 2025. A project report is being prepared.
Boron Carbide
Ioneer has engaged Fluor Corporation to prepare a pre-feasibility study to evaluate the feasibility of building a plant to produce defence-grade boron carbide from
boron produced at Rhyolite Ridge. The pre-feasibility study is planned to be completed by the end of Q2 2026.
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4
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Corporate Activities
Change in Financial Year End and Annual General Meeting
The Company has completed the transition of its financial year from 30 June year-end to 31 December year-end. The Annual General
Meeting for the transition period of 1 July 2025 to 31 December 2025, will be held on 21 May 2026. Additional details on the Annual General Meeting may be found on the Company’s website at www.ioneer.com.
Update to Estimated Project Timeline
Ioneer’s estimated timing* for Rhyolite Ridge is as follows:
|
Milestone
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Targeted timing*
|
Note
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|||
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Targeted completion of Strategic Partner process
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H1 2026
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The strategic partnering process is ongoing.
|
|||
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Targeted Final Investment Decision
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TBA
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Dependent on outcomes of Strategic Partnering Process and requirement to refresh Project economics.
|
|||
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Construction
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Circa 36 months
|
Includes supply of long-lead items and construction. Subject to lead times and when orders are placed.
|
*As of the date of this quarterly, and subject to change.
Upcoming Work Program
The work program over the coming months includes:
| • |
Complete the strategic partnering process for the Rhyolite Ridge Project
|
| • |
Make a Final Investment Decision (FID)
|
| • |
Prepare for commencement of construction
|
ASX Additional Information
The Company provides the following information pursuant to ASX Listing Rule requirements.
| 1. |
ASX LR 5.3.1: Exploration and Evaluation Expenditure during the quarter was US$2.05 million. Details of the exploration activity are
set out in this report. A breakdown of the expenditure is shown below:
|
|
Expenditure
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US$’000
|
||
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Exploration
|
0
|
||
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Engineering
|
950
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||
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Environmental
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447
|
||
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Sales & Marketing
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171
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||
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Other
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483
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||
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Total
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2,051
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|
5
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| 2. |
ASX LR 5.3.2: The Company confirms there were no production or development activities during the quarter.
|
| 3. |
ASX LR 5.3.5: Related party payments for the quarter totalled US$275,177 comprising salaries and fees for the Company’s executive
and non-executive directors. No other payments were made to any related parties of the entity or their associates.
|
| 4. |
ASX LR 5.3.3: INR confirms that it has not acquired tenements during the quarter (see Appendix 1).
|
Capital Structure
Total cash and cash equivalents as of 31 March 2026, was US$61.68 million of which 66.2% was held in USD with the balance held in AUD.
At the end of the quarter, Ioneer had on issue:
| • |
3.03 billion ordinary shares, and
|
| • |
76.7 million performance rights.
|
This ASX release has been authorised by Ioneer Managing Director, Bernard Rowe.
—ENDS—
Media Contact
|
Chad Yeftich
|
| Ioneer USA Corporation |
|
Investor Relations (USA)
|
| T: +1 775 993 8563 |
| E: ir@ioneer.com |
About Ioneer
Ioneer Ltd. is an emerging lithium–boron producer and the 100% owner of the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project. Rhyolite Ridge is one of only a small number of
lithium-boron ore deposits globally and a linchpin project in Nevada’s burgeoning Lithium Loop.
Rhyolite Ridge closed a US$996 million loan with the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Dominance Finance Program in January 2025. In October 2024, Ioneer received the
final federal permit for the project from the Bureau of Land Management, concluding the formal federal permitting process which began in early 2020.
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6
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Ioneer signed separate offtake agreements with Ford Motor Company and Prime Planet Energy & Solutions (joint venture between Toyota and Panasonic) in 2022 and
Korea’s EcoPro Innovation in 2021.
To learn more about Ioneer, visit www.Ioneer.com/investors or join our online communities on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube.
Competent Persons Statement
In respect of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves referred to in this presentation and previously reported by the Company in accordance with JORC Code 2012, the
Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the public report titled “Further Leach Optimisation Enhances Project Economics” dated 29 October 2025, released on ASX. Further
information regarding the Mineral Resource estimate and Ore Reserve can be found in that report. All material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the report continue to apply and have not materially changed.
In respect of production targets referred to in this report, the Company confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the
information included in the public report titled “Further Leach Optimisation Enhances Project Economics” dated 29 October 2025. Further information regarding the production estimates can be found in that report. All material assumptions and
technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the report continue to apply and have not materially changed.
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7
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Recent Announcements
The table below lists announcements made by the Company during the quarter.
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Date Released
|
Title
|
|
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23/01/2026
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December 2025 – Quarterly Activities Report
|
|
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23/01/2026
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December 2025 – Quarterly Cash Flow Report
|
|
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29/01/2026
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Pause in Trading
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29/01/2026
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Trading Halt
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30/01/2026
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Ioneer Secures US$50 million to Advance U.S. Onshoring
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30/01/2026
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Equity Raising Presentation
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30/01/2026
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Proposed issue of securities - INR
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05/02/2026
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Application for quotation of securities – INR
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05/02/2026
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Cleansing Notice
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09/02/2026
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Change in substantial holding
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18/03/2026
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Annual Report to shareholders for the six months ended 31 December 2025
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18/03/2026
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Appendix 4G – 31 December 2025
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18/03/2026
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Corporate Governance Statement – 31 December 2025
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25/03/2026
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Change of Director’s Interest Notice – Tim Woodall
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31/03/2026
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Federal Court Backs Rhyolite Ridge Lithium Mine
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07/04/2026
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Change in substantial holding
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20/04/2026
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Notice of Annual General Meeting/Proxy Form
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8
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Appendix 1 - Schedule of Tenements
ASX listing rule 5.3.3
|
Country
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Project
|
Tenement ID
|
Tenement Name
|
Area (km2)
|
Interest at beginning
of quarter
|
Interest at end of
quarter
|
Note
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NMC1117360
|
SLB claims (199)
|
15.9
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NV105809159
|
SLB claims (18)
|
1.4
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NMC1171536
|
SLM claims (122)
|
9.6
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NMC 1179516
|
RR claims (65)
|
4.8
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NV105810398
|
RR claims (14)
|
1.1
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NV105272779
|
RMS mill sites (23)
|
0.5
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NV106354216
|
RMS mill sites (325)
|
6.5
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NMC1147932
|
SLP claims (120)
|
9.6
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Rhyolite Ridge
|
NV105272053
|
PR claims (11)
|
0.9
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Beacon Hill
|
NMC1118666
|
NLB claims (160)
|
12.8
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Beacon Hill
|
NV106310781
|
NLB claims (41)
|
3.3
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Beacon Hill
|
NMC 1129523
|
BH claims (81)
|
6
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
||||||||
|
USA
|
Sarcobatus Basin
|
NV106735396
|
COB claims (231)
|
18.5
|
100%
|
100%
|
No change
|
|
9
|
|
Appendix 5B
Mining exploration entity or oil and gas exploration entity
quarterly cash flow report
quarterly cash flow report
|
Name of entity
|
|
|
ioneer Ltd
|
|
|
ABN
|
Quarter ended (“current quarter”)
|
|
76 098 564 606
|
March 2026
|
|
Consolidated statement of cash flows
|
Current quarter
$US’000 |
Year to date
(3 months)
$US’000 |
||
|
1.
|
Cash flows from operating activities
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
1.1
|
Receipts from customers
|
|||
|
1.2
|
Payments for
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
(a)
|
exploration & evaluation (if expensed) | |||
|
(b)
|
development |
-
|
-
|
|
|
(c)
|
production |
-
|
-
|
|
|
(d)
|
staff costs |
(670)
|
(670)
|
|
|
(e)
|
administration and corporate costs |
(1,210)
|
(1,210)
|
|
|
1.3
|
Dividends received (see note 3)
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
1.4
|
Interest received
|
112
|
112
|
|
|
1.5
|
Interest and other costs of finance paid
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
1.6
|
Income taxes paid
|
|||
|
1.7
|
Government grants and tax incentives
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
1.8
|
Other (provide details if material)
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
1.9
|
Net cash from / (used in) operating activities
|
(1,768)
|
(1,768)
|
|
|
2.
|
Cash flows from investing activities
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
2.1
|
Payments to acquire:
|
|||
|
(a)
|
entities | |||
|
(b)
|
tenements |
-
|
-
|
|
|
(c)
|
property, plant and equipment |
-
|
-
|
|
|
(d)
|
exploration & evaluation (if capitalised) |
(2,057)
|
(2,057)
|
|
|
(e)
|
investments |
-
|
-
|
|
|
(f)
|
other non-current assets |
-
|
-
|
|
|
Appendix 5B
|
|
Mining exploration entity or oil and gas exploration entity quarterly cash flow report
|
|
Consolidated statement of cash flows
|
Current quarter $US’000 |
Year to date
(3 months)
$US’000 |
||
|
2.2
|
Proceeds from the disposal of:
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
(a)
|
entities | |||
|
(b)
|
tenements |
-
|
-
|
|
|
(c)
|
property, plant and equipment |
-
|
-
|
|
|
(d)
|
investments |
-
|
-
|
|
|
(e)
|
other non-current assets |
-
|
-
|
|
|
2.3
|
Cash flows from loans to other entities
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
2.4
|
Dividends received (see note 3)
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
2.5
|
Other (provide details if material)
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
2.6
|
Net cash from / (used in) investing activities
|
(2,057)
|
(2,057)
|
|
|
3.
|
Cash flows from financing activities
|
50,400
|
50,400
|
|
|
3.1
|
Proceeds from issues of equity securities (excluding convertible debt securities)
|
|||
|
3.2
|
Proceeds from issue of convertible debt securities
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
3.3
|
Proceeds from exercise of options
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
3.4
|
Transaction costs related to issues of equity securities or convertible debt securities
|
(2,290)
|
(2,290)
|
|
|
3.5
|
Proceeds from borrowings
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
3.6
|
Repayment of borrowings
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
3.7
|
Transaction costs related to loans and borrowings
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
3.8
|
Dividends paid
|
-
|
-
|
|
|
3.9
|
Other (provide details if material)
|
(69)
|
(69)
|
|
|
3.10
|
Net cash from / (used in) financing activities
|
48,041
|
48,041
|
|
|
4.
|
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents for the period
|
|||
|
4.1
|
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
|
17,863
|
17,863
|
|
|
4.2
|
Net cash from / (used in) operating activities (item 1.9 above)
|
(1,768)
|
(1,768)
|
|
|
4.3
|
Net cash from / (used in) investing activities (item 2.6 above)
|
(2,057)
|
(2,057)
|
|
|
4.4
|
Net cash from / (used in) financing activities (item 3.10 above)
|
48,041
|
48,041
|
|
|
Appendix 5B
|
|
Mining exploration entity or oil and gas exploration entity quarterly cash flow report
|
|
Consolidated statement of cash flows
|
Current quarter $US’000 |
Year to date
(3 months)
$US’000 |
|
|
4.5
|
Effect of movement in exchange rates on cash held
|
(216)
|
(216)
|
|
4.6
|
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
|
61,863
|
61,863
|
|
5.
|
Reconciliation of cash and cash equivalents
at the end of the quarter (as shown in the consolidated statement of cash flows) to the related items in the accounts |
Current quarter
$US’000 |
Previous quarter
$US’000 |
|
5.1
|
Bank balances
|
1,749
|
1,578
|
|
5.2
|
Call deposits
|
60,114
|
16,285
|
|
5.3
|
Bank overdrafts
|
-
|
-
|
|
5.4
|
Other (provide details)
|
||
|
5.5
|
Cash and cash equivalents at end of quarter (should equal item 4.6 above)
|
61,683
|
17,863
|
|
6.
|
Payments to related parties of the entity and their associates
|
Current quarter
$US'000 |
|
6.1
|
Aggregate amount of payments to related parties and their associates included in item 1
|
275
|
|
6.2
|
Aggregate amount of payments to related parties and their associates included in item 2
|
|
|
Note: if any amounts are shown in items 6.1 or 6.2, your quarterly activity report must include a description of, and an explanation for, such payments
|
||
|
Directors’ fees – 97.5
|
||
| Executive salary component of chairman’s fee – 62.5 | ||
|
Wages – 115.2
|
||
|
Appendix 5B
|
|
Mining exploration entity or oil and gas exploration entity quarterly cash flow report
|
|
7.
|
Financing facilities
Note: the term “facility’ includes all forms of financing arrangements available to the entity. Add notes as necessary for an understanding of the sources of finance available to the entity.
|
Total facility
amount at quarter
end
$US’000 |
Amount drawn at
quarter end $US’000 |
|
7.1
|
Loan facilities
|
-
|
-
|
|
7.2
|
Credit standby arrangements
|
-
|
-
|
|
7.3
|
Other (please specify)
|
-
|
-
|
|
7.4
|
Total financing facilities
|
-
|
-
|
|
7.5
|
Unused financing facilities available at quarter end
|
-
|
|
|
7.6
|
Include in the box below a description of each facility above, including the lender, interest rate, maturity date and whether it is secured
or unsecured. If any additional financing facilities have been entered into or are proposed to be entered into after quarter end, include a note providing details of those facilities as well.
|
||
|
8.
|
Estimated cash available for future operating activities
|
$US’000
|
|
8.1
|
Net cash from / (used in) operating activities (Item 1.9)
|
(1,768)
|
|
8.2
|
Capitalised exploration & evaluation (Item 2.1(d))
|
(2,057)
|
|
8.3
|
Total relevant outgoings (Item 8.1 + Item 8.2)
|
(3,825)
|
|
8.4
|
Cash and cash equivalents at quarter end (Item 4.6)
|
61,863
|
|
8.5
|
Unused finance facilities available at quarter end (Item 7.5)
|
-
|
|
8.6
|
Total available funding (Item 8.4 + Item 8.5)
|
61,863
|
|
8.7
|
Estimated quarters of funding available (Item 8.6 divided by Item 8.3)
|
16.2
|
|
8.8
|
If Item 8.7 is less than 2 quarters, please provide answers to the following questions:
|
|
|
1. Does the entity expect that it will continue to have the current level of net operating cash flows for the time being
and, if not, why not?
|
||
|
Answer: N/A
|
||
|
2. Has the entity taken any steps, or does it propose to take any steps, to raise further cash to fund its operations and,
if so, what are those steps and how likely does it believe that they will be successful?
|
||
|
Answer: N/A
|
||
|
3. Does the entity expect to be able to continue its operations and to meet its business objectives and, if so, on what
basis?
|
||
|
Answer: N/A
|
||
|
Appendix 5B
|
|
Mining exploration entity or oil and gas exploration entity quarterly cash flow report
|
Compliance statement
| 1 |
This statement has been prepared in accordance with accounting standards and policies which comply with Listing Rule 19.11A.
|
| 2 |
This statement gives a true and fair view of the matters disclosed.
|
30 April 2026
| Date: |
|
|
Bernard Rowe – Managing Director
| Authorised by: |
|
|
|
|
(Name of body or officer authorising release – see note 4) |
|
Notes
| 1. |
This quarterly cash flow report and the accompanying activity report provide a basis for informing the market about the entity’s activities for the past quarter, how they have
been financed and the effect this has had on its cash position. An entity that wishes to disclose additional information over and above the minimum required under the Listing Rules is encouraged to do so.
|
| 2. |
If this quarterly cash flow report has been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards, the definitions in, and provisions of, AASB 6: Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Resources and AASB 107: Statement of Cash Flows apply to this report. If this quarterly cash flow report has been prepared in
accordance with other accounting standards agreed by ASX pursuant to Listing Rule 19.11A, the corresponding equivalent standards apply to this report.
|
| 3. |
Dividends received may be classified either as cash flows from operating activities or cash flows from investing activities, depending on the accounting policy of the entity.
|
| 4. |
If this report has been authorised for release to the market by your board of directors, you can insert here: “By the board”. If it has been authorised for release to the market
by a committee of your board of directors, you can insert here: “By the [name of board committee – e.g. Audit and Risk Committee]”. If it has been
authorised for release to the market by a disclosure committee, you can insert here: “By the Disclosure Committee”.
|
| 5. |
If this report has been authorised for release to the market by your board of directors and you wish to hold yourself out as complying with recommendation 4.2 of the ASX
Corporate Governance Council’s Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations, the board should have received a declaration from its CEO and CFO that, in their opinion, the financial
records of the entity have been properly maintained, that this report complies with the appropriate accounting standards and gives a true and fair view of the cash flows of the entity, and that their opinion has been formed on the basis
of a sound system of risk management and internal control which is operating effectively.
|
FAQ
How much cash does Ioneer (IONR) have after the March 2026 quarter?
Ioneer ended the March 2026 quarter with cash and cash equivalents of US$61.863 million. This balance reflects net operating outflows, project investment, and proceeds from the recent equity placement, giving the company a substantial liquidity buffer for advancing Rhyolite Ridge activities.
What equity financing did Ioneer (IONR) complete in early 2026?
In February 2026, Ioneer issued 400,000,000 new ordinary shares at A$0.18 per share, raising gross proceeds of A$72 million (about US$50 million). The funds are primarily intended to accelerate development of the Rhyolite Ridge lithium‑boron project in Nevada.
What is the legal status of Ioneer’s Rhyolite Ridge permits?
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management issued a Record of Decision in October 2024 approving Rhyolite Ridge’s Plan of Operations. On 31 March 2026, a U.S. District Court upheld this decision, though plaintiffs have appealed to the Ninth Circuit, keeping legal proceedings active.
How long can Ioneer (IONR) fund operations at current spending levels?
Using its March 2026 quarter cash flows, Ioneer estimates about 16.2 quarters of funding are available. This calculation combines total relevant quarterly outgoings of US$3.825 million with cash and cash equivalents of US$61.863 million, indicating significant medium‑term financial flexibility.
What lithium and boron market conditions does Ioneer report for March 2026?
Ioneer notes lithium markets have strengthened, with Fastmarkets median CIF Asia lithium carbonate at US$21,000/tonne and hydroxide at US$20,250/tonne. Boric acid demand is growing, and Chinese imports reached 53,462 tonnes in early 2026, up 6.7% year‑over‑year.
What key studies is Ioneer conducting for Rhyolite Ridge’s growth?
Ioneer is preparing a pre‑feasibility study for battery‑grade lithium carbonate and has engaged Fluor Corporation for a boron carbide pre‑feasibility study. Both studies are planned for completion by the end of Q2 2026 and will inform potential product expansions.