Debt Settlement Clears Path for Ariana’s Dokwe Gold Project Progress in 2026
Ariana Resources has extinguished its outstanding US$782,575 loan with RiverFort by issuing over 40 million shares, leaving the company debt-free and well-capitalised with A$11 million in cash.
- US$782,575 loan converted into 40.4 million ordinary shares
- Debt-free status achieved with A$11 million cash as of December 2025
- Removal of RiverFort’s first ranking security over company assets
- Retention of undrawn US$3 million facility for future financing
- Shares to be admitted on London’s AIM market around 5 February 2026
Ariana Resources Settles Debt via Share Conversion
Ariana Resources plc, a dual-listed gold exploration and development company, has announced the settlement of its outstanding loan balance with RiverFort Global Opportunities PCC Limited. The US$782,575.08 debt was discharged through the issuance of 40,435,311 ordinary shares, equivalent to approximately 4,043,531 CHESS Depository Instruments (CDIs) on the ASX. This move effectively clears the company’s debt, strengthening its balance sheet as it heads into 2026.
Financial Position and Market Impact
As of 31 December 2025, Ariana held around A$11 million (approximately £5.5 million) in cash, positioning the company comfortably for its upcoming operational milestones. The share issuance will be admitted for trading on the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) of the London Stock Exchange around 5 February 2026, with the new shares ranking equally with existing ordinary shares. This capital restructuring removes RiverFort’s first ranking general security over Ariana and certain subsidiaries, signalling a clean slate in terms of secured debt.
Future Financing Flexibility
Despite settling the outstanding loan, Ariana retains access to the remaining undrawn US$3 million from the original US$5 million facility agreement with RiverFort. This facility remains available for the next three years, providing a financial safety net as Ariana advances its flagship Dokwe Gold Project in Zimbabwe. The company’s management emphasises this flexibility as a strategic advantage amid positive momentum in precious metals markets.
Management Commentary and Strategic Outlook
Dr Kerim Sener, Managing Director of Ariana Resources, expressed appreciation for RiverFort’s support, highlighting their role in facilitating working capital and the company’s ASX dual-listing. He noted the importance of this financial backing in positioning Ariana to deliver key project milestones in the year ahead. The close-out of the loan and the strengthened cash position underscore the company’s readiness to capitalise on favourable market conditions and progress its exploration and development agenda.
Broader Company Interests
Ariana’s portfolio extends beyond Zimbabwe, including gold-silver production in Türkiye and copper-gold-silver projects in Kosovo and Cyprus. The company’s dual listing on AIM and ASX reflects its international ambitions and commitment to creating shareholder value through active mining projects and strategic investments.
Bottom Line?
With debt cleared and cash reserves robust, Ariana Resources is poised for a pivotal year advancing its gold projects.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the share issuance impact Ariana’s share price and existing shareholders?
- What are the specific milestones planned for the Dokwe Gold Project in 2026?
- Under what conditions might Ariana draw on the remaining US$3 million facility?
