Fresh Thinking: The 3-Minute Read. Episode 112

Here’s your 3-minute quick read of Fresh Thinking by Snowden Optiro’s podcast Episode 112.
We’ve pulled out the key insights and takeaways – perfect for when you want the value, minus the headphones.

Financing Mines: What Investment Banks Actually Do

Fresh Thinking Podcast – Episode 112

When it comes to financing a mining project, most people think of bank loans or raising equity. But there’s another player behind the scenes that plays a vital role in getting mines off the ground: the investment bank.

In this episode of Fresh Thinking, Snowden Optiro General Manager Tarrant Elkington speaks with our Executive Consultant Bob Jankovic to discuss the investment bank’s role in mining – and what mining companies should know if they want to secure funding or position themselves for acquisition.

Investment Banks vs Traditional Lenders

While traditional lenders focus on downside risk and debt security, investment banks are all about value creation and opportunity. They step in during various project stages – from early exploration to operational mines – offering equity financing, strategic advice, and support in mergers and acquisitions.

“When you’re buying, you look for risks. When you’re selling, you look for opportunities. Investment banking is about balancing both.” – Bob Jankovic

What Makes a Technical Consultant Valuable in Investment Banking?

Bob’s experience – covering open pit, underground, greenfield, brownfield, and multiple commodities – made him an ideal bridge between technical detail and financial strategy. His eight years at ScotiaBank gave him deep insight into capital markets, risk assessment, and project validation.

“It gives you leverage as a technical person – understanding what it really takes to raise money and where the risks are if projects aren’t technically validated.”

Streaming Deals and Strategic Matchmaking

Bob also sheds light on the rise of streaming deals and the bank’s role as a matchmaker in M&A – helping match junior explorers with the right acquirers to get projects into production. This isn’t just about numbers; it’s about understanding the team, the geology, and the project’s true potential.

When Should Juniors Engage Investment Banks?

Early! Bob encourages junior miners to be proactive – engage with banks, ask for advice, and be open to technical feedback. Many juniors are eager to learn and collaborate when banks bring technical expertise to the table.

“They love seeing technical staff within the bank – it’s a shared language.”

Final Insight: Operational Experience Matters

One of Bob’s biggest takeaways? Hands-on mining experience matters more than people think. Whether in consulting or banking, technical professionals who’ve spent time on site bring credibility and depth that spreadsheets alone can’t match.

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🎧 Listen to Episode 112: “Financing Mines – The Investment Bank Role”
Available on YouTube, Spotify and all major podcast platforms.

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Watch or listen to the full episode
Available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Stay tuned for more 3-minute articles from our Fresh Thinking 3-Minute Read series.

If you would like to contact either Bob or Tarrant: contact@snowdenoptiro.com

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Here is a LINK to our Snowden Optiro YouTube channel.

Snowden Optiro is a resources consulting and advisory group that provides independent advice, consulting and training to mining and exploration companies, their advisors and investors.

We help mine developers to advance their projects, mining companies to improve their operations and their professionals, and investors to de-risk their investments by the provision of quality advice, training and software in the field of Mineral Resources and Mineral/Ore Reserves.

LINK to Snowden Optiro website