Gold miner Catalyst Metals has gained 100% ownership of a critical part of the Plutonic Gold Belt after settling the final legal dispute it inherited through its 2023 consolidation of the district.

The ASX-listed company said on Monday it had reached a full and final settlement with fellow-listed Zuleika Gold, covering all claims related to ongoing litigation tied to a tenement in the belt. The agreement includes the surrender of the counterparty’s 4.1% interest in the asset and resolves royalty and trailing payment issues linked to any future production.

Catalyst will issue 4.2-million company shares and pay A$15-million in cash upfront, with a further A$2-million payment due in six months.

The dispute stemmed from matters taken on when Catalyst acquired Superior Gold and Vango Mining as part of its strategy to consolidate the Plutonic Belt. Vango had been involved in several legal processes, all of which Catalyst has worked through over the past two-and-a-half years. This settlement resolves the last outstanding issue.

With full ownership now secured, Catalyst said it can proceed without legal impediments at the K2 mine and across the surrounding area of the belt, which has remained largely unexplored and unmined since the 1990s.

The company added that the settlement avoids at least two years of further complex and costly litigation, enabling it to accelerate mining and exploration activities as it advances its goal of reaching 200 000 oz/y of gold production.

Commenting on the settlement, Zuleika Gold executive chair Annie Guo said the board welcomed the outcome, noting that it provided clarity, certainty and that it was a major step forward for the company.

"This settlement marks an important milestone for Zuleika and a significant win for our shareholders. Successfully ending this five-year litigation has required considerable resolve and an unwavering commitment to protecting Zuleika’s rights. The board’s persistence has paid off, delivering a strong settlement that both protects and enhances shareholder value."

"Zuleika can now turn its undivided attention to progressing our strategic priorities of advancing our portfolio of exciting gold assets and pursuing further growth opportunities."