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Posts Tagged ‘Minera Andes’

Today Minera Andes announced positive results for the fourth quarter. The proceeds from this project allows the company to continue to explore their large claims. We bought Minera Andes in September 2009 @ CA$0.84 today the stock gained 3.29% against slumping commodity prices to close at CA$2.51 This means a 198.8% gain since we picked this stock in September 2009. Using the three step retirement plan we wrote about in a previous post we own this stock for free now!

Minera Andes News Release:

TORONTO, ONTARIO – January 19, 2011 – Minera Andes Inc. (the “Corporation” or “Minera Andes”) (TSX: MAI and US OTC: MNEAF) announces the San José mine production results for the fourth quarter of 2010 and the year ended December 31, 2010. During the fourth quarter, the San José mine produced 1,871,440 ounces of silver and 26,141 ounces of gold, of which 49% is attributable to Minera Andes. For the full year of 2010 silver production was 5,323,842 ounces and gold production was 84,303 ounces.

*49% of the San José mine production is attributable to Minera Andes Inc.

Fourth quarter 2010 silver production was 33% higher and gold production was 19% higher compared to the third quarter of 2010. The increase in silver and gold production was the result of increased mill throughput, increased metallurgical recoveries for silver and gold, and higher grades for silver compared to the third quarter. The mill is currently operating routinely at full capacity. The increase in mill throughput was due to the development of additional production areas in the mine, and the improved silver grade was due to production from higher grade silver areas and because of incremental silver production from the Merrill Crowe circuit in the mill. Fourth quarter 2010 silver production increased 81% and gold increased 31% compared to the fourth quarter of 2009. Production in the fourth quarter of 2009 was reduced because of 15 days of labour disruptions.

Fourth quarter production cost information will be provided jointly with the financial results for the fourth quarter which are due to be filed at the end of March 2011.

Sales of silver and gold were 57% and 35% higher, respectively, in fourth quarter of 2010 compared to the third quarter as a result of increased ore production and a decrease in products inventory. Compared to the same quarter last year, sales of silver and gold in the fourth quarter of 2010 were 94% and 40% higher, respectively. This was mainly due to increases in mill throughput, metallurgical recoveries and head grades.

This news release is submitted by James K. Duff, Chief Operating Officer of Minera Andes Inc.

About Minera Andes Minera Andes is an exploration company exploring for gold, silver and copper in Argentina with three significant assets: A 49% interest in Minera Santa Cruz SA, owner of the San José Mine in close proximity to Goldcorp Inc.’s Cerro Negro project; 100% ownership of the Los Azules copper deposit with an inferred mineral resource of 10.3 billion pounds of copper and an indicated resource of 2.2 billion pounds of copper; and, 100% ownership of a portfolio of exploration properties bordering Goldcorp Inc.’s Cerro Negro project in Santa Cruz Province. The Corporation had $10 million USD in cash as at September 30th 2010 with no bank debt. Rob McEwen, Chairman and CEO, owns 33% of the company.

About Minera Santa Cruz Minera Santa Cruz SA is a joint venture owned 51% by Hochschild Mining Argentina, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hochschild Mining plc, and 49% by Minera Andes S.A., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Corporation. The joint venture owns and operates the San José property.

About Hochschild Mining plc Hochschild Mining plc is a leading precious metals company listed on the London Stock Exchange (HOCM.L / HOC LN) with a primary focus on the exploration, mining, processing and sale of silver and gold. Hochschild has over forty years of experience in the mining of precious metal epithermal vein deposits and currently operates four underground epithermal vein mines, three located in southern Peru, one in southern Argentina and one open pit mine in northern Mexico. Hochschild also has numerous long-term prospects throughout the Americas.

For further information, please contact: Andrew Elinesky or visit our Web site: www.minandes.com.

Andrew Elinesky
Controller
99 George St. 3rd Floor,
Toronto, Ontario, Canada. M5A 2N4
Toll-Free: 1-866-441-0690
Tel:647-258-0395
Fax: 647-258-0408
E-mail: info@minandes.com

Reliability of Information
Minera Santa Cruz S.A., the owner and operator of the San José mine, is responsible for and has supplied to the Corporation all reported results from the San José mine. This press release is based entirely on information provided to Minera Andes by Minera Santa Cruz S.A. (“MSC”). Minera Andes’ joint venture partner, a subsidiary of Hochschild Mining plc, and its affiliates other than MSC do not accept responsibility for the use of project data or the adequacy or accuracy of this release. As the Corporation is not the operator of the San José mine, there can be no assurance that production information reported to the Corporation by MSC is accurate, the Corporation has not independently verified such information and readers are therefore cautioned regarding the extent to which they should rely upon such information.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:
This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information express, as at the date of this press release, the Corporation’s plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations or beliefs as to future events and results, including the outcome of pending and current litigation. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by us, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause results or future events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, factors associated with fluctuations in the market price of precious metals, mining industry risks, risks associated with foreign operations, the state of the capital markets, environmental risks and hazards, uncertainty as to calculation of mineral resources and reserves and other risks

Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to reissue or update forward-looking statements or information as a result of new information or events after the date hereof except as may be required by law. See the Corporation’s annual information form for additional information on risks, uncertainties and other factors relating to the forward-looking statements and information. All forward-looking statements and information made in this news release are qualified by this cautionary statement.

Source: Company website

Step 1: Pick the right company!

In the beginning of 2009 I finally realised that the continuous devaluation of fiat currencies like the US Dollar and the Euro was likely to go on the coming years. Both in the USA and in Europe money is being printed at alarming rates, yet the only thing you’re hearing lately is that we are all doing so well! Well, don’t believe it! All that money being printed has to go somewhere, and there you have your equity bull-market explained. I realised that true value could only be stored in silver and gold.  How could I benefit from the enormous gold and silver bull-market that I was expecting. The largest leverage to gold and silver prices is always found in junior mining stock. I am a big admirer of Warren Buffet and believe in value investment. Using value investment principles and after months of research and reading piles of year-reports and books, I finally picked six companies.  With all my saving money transferred to a on-line broker I bought shares of six companies.

Step 2: Take your profit, and gain “free” stock.

With prices of gold and silver soaring in 2010 just like I expected, many shares in my portfolio were exceeding 250% gains. So I sold about 40%-50% of all my shares in these companies getting back even more than the original investment. The remaining shares in these companies were now basically “free” shares. Since large corrections in gold and silver prices are likely each time after another record is shattered, I just waited for this correction, and used the money to GO BACK TO STEP 1!!! So far I picked five new companies to invest in, and am looking for one more to complete my second round of step 1. With prices of gold and silver prices rising for years to come I hope to repeat step-1 and step-2 many times. I now have created what I call step-3 companies.

Step 3: Wait, wait, wait

As you might have noticed I only sold about half the shares of the companies I picked. All the companies I picked mainly have developed from explorers to producers. I intend to NEVER SELL the shares I own. There might always be a exception in special circumstances however. Where will these companies be in 10, 20 or even 25 years from now. I strongly believe that all companies will continue to develop, mergers take overs etc. who knows…. But with governments making the same mistakes over and over again, the way up for gold and silver still is very long. In the years to come the new Goldcorp, Barrick or Rio Tinto will present its-self and I am certain that parts of my portfolio will be or be part of that company. It is very likely that companies in the portfolio will start paying dividends at a certain point (e.g. 5-15 years)

These step-3 companies are my retirement, my protection against inflation!

Can you prove this?

Well, step-1 and step-2 have been proven already. Step-3 only partially.

How did you do so far then?

Bought in 2009:

International Royalty Company: Got lucky on that one, made a 101% profit in a take-over battle just months after buying it. Sold all shares.

Avino Silver & Gold mines: bought @ US$0.63 : sold 40% of my shares @ US$2,57 (a 307% gain) creating a step-3 company for my portfolio.

First Majestic: bought @ CA$2.66 : sold 45% of my shares @ CA$10.88 (a 309% gain) creating a step-3 company for my portfolio.

Great Panther: bought @ CA$0.84 : sold 50% of my shares @ CA$2.75 (a 227% gain) creating a step-3 company for my portfolio.

Minera Andes: bought @ CA$0.72: sold of my shares @ CA$2.56 (a 255% gain) creating a step-3 company for my portfolio.

Silver Wheaton: bought @ US$9,95 and a second step-1 for Silver Wheaton @US14,95 in 2010. I sold 50% of all my Silver Wheaton shares @US$39.07 creating a step-3 company for my portfolio.

Bought in 2010:

Seabridge Gold: bought @ US$28.36 is still a step-1 company! We think it might take up to 3 or 4 years to reach step-2 but if investors discover the true value of this company it might come much sooner as well!

Rubicon Minerals: bought @ CA$3.49 today the stock closed @ CA$5.49 meaning a 57.3% gain. In between step-1 and step-2.

Copper Creek Gold (Highly Speculative!!): bought @ CA$0.075 today the stock closed @ CA$0.09 meaning a 20% gain. Still step-1, but highly speculative!

Excellon Recources: bought @ CA$0.99 today the stock closed @ CA$1.18 meaning a 19% gain. Still a step-1 company!

Brigus Gold: bought @ US$1.88 today the stock closed @ US$1.77 meaning a 5,9% loss. Very much a step-1 company!

What do I expect in 2011?

More volatility is likely to rule the commodity markets. Food prices will soar, the oil price will rise gradually as will the price of copper. For a gold rally we will have to wait till August again, then I see a spot price of about $1600-$1700 before the end of this year. Silver will outperform gold again in 2011. I expect the price of silver to be less volatile than the price of gold. When the gold rally in August commences again, silver will shoot up like a star! During the year I think the gold/silver ratio will decline gradually as a result of this. At the end of 2011 I expect the gold/silver ratio to be below 35. IF this happens, I will be able add some step-3 companies to my portfolio from the 2010 stock picks, and use the money at the next correction to buy new step-1 companies.

Alexander Aardema, CEO @ CashInfo.org

Disclaimer:

The information provided on or within this article, website or in documents available herein is for assistance only and is not intended to be and must not be taken alone as the basis for an investment decision. Each recipient of this information should make such investigations as it deems necessary to arrive at an independent evaluation of an investment in the securities offered hereby, and should consult its own legal counsel and financial, accounting, regulatory and tax advisors to determine the consequences of such an investment.

News Release:

TORONTO, ONTARIO, Dec. 23, 2010 (Marketwire) — Minera Andes Inc. (TSX:MAI)(OTCBB:MNEAF) is pleased to announce that as a result of the Quarterly S&P/TSX index review, Standard & Poor’s Canadian Index Operations added Minera Andes to the S&P/TSX Global Mining Index effective December 20, 2010.

Also, further to the Company’s news release of November 22, 2010 an updated technical report on the San Jose Mine was filed on SEDAR today.

About Minera Andes

Minera Andes is an exploration company exploring for gold, silver and copper in Argentina with three significant assets: A 49% interest in Minera Santa Cruz SA, owner of the San Jose Mine in close proximity to Andean Resources’ Cerro Negro project; 100% ownership of the Los Azules copper deposit with an inferred mineral resource of 10.3 billion pounds of copper and an indicated resource of 2.2 billion pounds of copper; and, 100% ownership of a portfolio of exploration properties bordering Andean’s Cerro Negro project in Santa Cruz Province. The Corporation had $10 million USD in cash as at September 30, 2010 with no bank debt. Rob McEwen, Chairman and CEO, owns 33% of the company.

This news release has been submitted by Perry Ing, Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation. For further information, please contact Jim Duff or visit our Website: www.minandes.com.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information express, as at the date of this press release, the Corporation’s plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations or beliefs as to future events and results and management’s understanding of proposed legislative changes. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause results or future events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, factors associated with fluctuations in the market price of precious metals, mining industry risks, risks associated with foreign operations, risks related to litigation, property title, the state of the capital markets, environmental risks and hazards, uncertainty as to calculation of mineral resources and reserves and other risks.

Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to reissue or update forward-looking statements or information as a result of new information or events after the date hereof except as may be required by law. See the Corporation’s annual information form for additional information on risks, uncertainties and other factors relating to the forward-looking statements and information. All forward-looking statements and information made in this news release are qualified by this cautionary statement.

The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release, which has been prepared by management.

Minera Andes Inc. Chief Financial Officer 647-258-0395 or Toll-Free: 1-866-441-0690 647-258-0408 (FAX) info@minandes.com www.minandes.com

Source: TMX.com

Great news today from Minera Andes, the only big copper play in our portfolio. Shares are trading up 5% after the opening on Friday. The gold and silver that comes as a by-product in this project almost covers the mining costs. Essentially this means they are mining copper almost for free. With copper prices soaring the last weeks and strong fundamentals for copper the coming years, this project has become a real marvel. We boughs shares of Minera Andes in September 2009 @ CA$0.72 using today’s intra-day high of $CA2.92 this means a whopping 305,5% gain!

Minera Andes News Release

TORONTO, ONTARIO – December 16, 2010 – Minera Andes Inc. (TSX: MAI and US OTC: MNEAF) – is pleased to announce the results of an updated preliminary assessment (“PA”) on its 100% owned Los Azules Copper Project (the “Project”) located in the San Juan Province of western central Argentina. It is based on the updated resource estimate announced in June 2010 and higher base case metal price assumptions.

• Using a Copper price of $3.00/ lb
• Base case pre-tax Net Present Value (“NPV”) is $2.8 billion and the Internal Rate of Return (“IRR”) is 21.4%, at a discount rate of 8%
• Life of mine Cash Operating Costs of $0.96/lb of copper net of gold and silver by-product credits.
• Initial Capital $2.9 billion
• Capital Payback in 3 years.
• Mine life of 25 years.

Rob McEwen, Chairman and CEO of Minera Andes, said:

“We are advancing the engineering studies on Los Azules to systematically de-risk the project. The field season is just getting underway, and we are currently mobilizing the first two of five drill rigs to the project. In addition to continuing the infill and step out drilling, we will start to test some of the newly identified deeper geophysical targets this season.”

The Los Azules Copper Project is an advanced-stage porphyry copper exploration project located in the cordilleran region of San Juan Province, Argentina near the border with Chile. The deposit is a typical porphyry copper system in that the upper part of the system consists of a barren leached cap, which is underlain by a high-grade secondary enrichment blanket, and the primary mineralization below the secondary enrichment zone extends to at least 650 meters, which is the depth of the deepest holes drilled to date. The deposit is approximately one kilometer wide by four kilometers long, and it is open in several directions.

Highlights of the updated Preliminary Assessment are shown below. Details may be found in an updated technical report which will be posted on SEDAR following the issuance of this news release.

All monetary amounts are expressed in US dollars unless otherwise stated. The PA is preliminary in nature and includes the use of inferred resources which are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves. Thus, there is no certainty that the results of the PA will be realized. Actual results may vary, perhaps materially. The level of accuracy for Preliminary Assessment estimates is approximately +/- 35%.

Compared to the previous Preliminary Assessment released in March 2009, the NPV discounted at 8% has increased from $496 million to $2.9 billion and the IRR has increased from 10.8% to 21.4%. In addition, the payback of pre-production capital has decreased from 6.4 years to 3.1 years from the start of production.

The main driver of the improved project economics is that the base case copper price has been increased from $1.90/pound to $3.00/pound. Specifically, the higher copper price added approximately $3.2 billion to the NPV, and the increased resources added approximately $2.1 billion.

The benefits of the higher copper price and increased resources were significantly offset by increases in the estimated operating costs ($695 million), capital costs ($100 million) and export retention taxes and royalties ($3.4 billion).

The updated Preliminary Assessment also incorporates updated property status and ownership information, revised locations for the project facilities, and an updated geological interpretation.

Project Economics

The Preliminary Assessment contains a cash flow valuation model based upon the geological and engineering work completed to date and technical and cost inputs developed by Samuel Engineering, Inc., Ausenco Vector and MTB Project Management Professionals, Inc. The base case was developed using long term forecast metal prices of $3.00/lb for copper, $980/oz for gold, and $15.60/oz for silver.

The following chart shows the sensitivity of the base case’s NPV and IRR to changes in the copper price: (8% real discount rate).

Click to enlarge

The following chart shows the sensitivity to metal prices, operating costs, and capital cost. The graph shows that the project NPV is much more sensitive to metal prices than to capital or operating costs.

Click to enlarge

About Minera Andes

Minera Andes is an exploration company exploring for gold, silver and copper in Argentina with three significant assets: A 49% interest in Minera Santa Cruz SA, owner of the San José Mine in close proximity to Andean Resources’ Cerro Negro project; 100% ownership of the Los Azules copper deposit with an inferred mineral resource of 10.3 billion pounds of copper and an indicated resource of 2.2 billion pounds of copper; and, 100% ownership of a portfolio of exploration properties bordering Andean’s Cerro Negro project in Santa Cruz Province. The Corporation had $10 million USD in cash as at September 30, 2010 with no bank debt. Rob McEwen, Chairman and CEO, owns 33% of the company.

This news release has been submitted by Jim Duff, Chief Operating Officer of the Corporation. For further information, please contact Jim Duff or visit our Website: www.minandes.com.

James K. Duff
Chief Operating Officer
99 George St. 3rd Floor
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5A 2N4
Toll-Free: 1-866-441-0690
Tel: 647-258-0395
Fax: 647-258-0408
E-mail: info@minandes.com

Scientific and Technical Information:

The information presented in this press release has been reviewed and approved by the Qualified Persons responsible for the Technical Report that presents the results of the Updated Preliminary Assessment. They are: Kathleen Altman, Ph.D., PE,, Robert Sim, P.Geo,. Bruce Davis, PhD, FAusIMM, Richard Jemielita, Ph.D., MIMMM, William Rose, PE, and Scott Elfen, PE. All are independent Qualified Persons as defined by National Instrument 43-101 “Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects” (“NI 43-101″). Robert Sim, Bruce Davis, and William Rose are responsible for the mineral resource estimate. Bruce Davis is responsible for the quality control for the assaying of the Los Azules drill core. All samples were collected in accordance with industry standards. Splits from the drill core samples were submitted to the ACME sample preparation laboratory in Mendoza, Argentina and then transferred to ACME’s laboratory in Santiago, Chile for fire assay and ICP analysis. Accuracy of results is tested through the systematic inclusion of standards, blanks and check assays. William Rose is responsible for developing the mine production schedule and participating in the resource estimate. Scott Elfen of Ausenco Vector is responsible for information about Environmental Liabilities, Environmental Permitting and for the Geotechnical designs used for the Study. Richard Jemielita is responsible for information about the Geological Setting, Deposit Types, Mineralization, Exploration, and Drilling. Kathleen Altman, Samuel Engineering, Inc., is the principal author of the Report with specific responsibility for Mineral Processing and Metallurgical Testing, the capital and operating cost estimates and the economic evaluation.

Mineral resources are generated using ordinary kriging with a nominal block size of 20x20x15m. Block grade estimates are derived from drill hole sample results and the interpretation of a geologic model which relates to the spatial distribution of copper, gold, silver and molybdenum in the deposit. There are a total of 114 drill holes in the Los Azules database with a cumulative length of 30,997 meters and a total of 15,260 samples analyzed for a suite of elements including total copper, gold, silver and molybdenum. A total of 58 of the drill holes have some portion of the sample intervals tested for sequential copper analysis. This information contributed to the development of the mineral zone domains. The portion of the new mineral resource that has been defined as “indicated” is based on a drilling configuration that exhibits the degree of continuity required for higher level mineral resources. Inferred mineral resources are limited to blocks within a maximum distance of 200 meters from a drill hole. As required by NI 43-101, the possible future economic viability of the mineral resource has been exhibited by restriction within a pit shell derived about the copper content in indicated and inferred class blocks at a copper price of $2.50/lb, total operating costs of $5.25/tonne and an average pit slope of 34 degrees. Mineral resources are presented at a cut-off grade of 0.35%Cu, which is the same base cut-off grade used in the 2008 mineral resource estimate. These are mineral resources, not mineral reserves.

For further information in respect of the Los Azules project please refer to the technical report entitled “Canadian National Instrument 43-101 Technical Report Updated Preliminary Assessment, Los Azules Project, San Juan Province, Argentina” dated December 1, 2010, the “Los Azules Report.” This report will be made available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) concurrent with the filing of this news release. Inferred mineral resources are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves. There is no certainty that the project as described in the Los Azules Report will be realized.

Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors:

All resource estimates reported by the Corporation were calculated in accordance with NI 43-101 and the Canadian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy Classification system. These standards differ significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Mineral resources which are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements:

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and information. The forward-looking statements and information express, as at the date of this press release, the Corporation’s plans, estimates, forecasts, projections, expectations or beliefs as to future events and results and management’s understanding of proposed legislative changes. Forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, and there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Risks and uncertainties that could cause results or future events to differ materially from current expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, factors associated with fluctuations in the market price of precious metals, mining industry risks, risks associated with foreign operations, risks related to litigation, property title, the state of the capital markets, environmental risks and hazards, uncertainty as to calculation of mineral resources and reserves and other risks.

Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. The Corporation undertakes no obligation to reissue or update forward-looking statements or information as a result of new information or events after the date hereof except as may be required by law. See the Corporation’s annual information form for additional information on risks, uncertainties and other factors relating to the forward-looking statements and information. All forward-looking statements and information made in this news release are qualified by this cautionary statement.

The TSX has not reviewed and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of the contents of this news release, which has been prepared by management.

Source: Company website

TORONTO, ONTARIO – October 20, 2010 – Minera Andes Inc. (the “Corporation” or “Minera Andes”) (TSX: MAI and US OTC: MNEAF) announces the San José mine production results for the third quarter of 2010. During the third quarter, the San José mine produced 1,408,501 ounces of silver and 22,025 ounces of gold, of which 49% is attributable to Minera Andes.

*49% of the San José mine production is attributable to Minera Andes Inc.

Compared to the second quarter of 2010, the 2010 third quarter silver production was 15% higher and gold production was 12% higher. The increase in silver and gold production was primarily the result of the expected improvement in grade profile compared to the second quarter: the silver head grade increased 15% and the gold head grade increase 11%. The improved silver grades are related to ongoing development of the Kospi vein. Mill throughput in the third quarter of 2010 was 3% lower than the previous quarter. Compared to the third quarter of 2009, the third quarter 2010 silver production was approximately the same and gold production decreased 2%.

Third quarter production cost information will be provided with the third quarter financial results.

Sales of silver and gold were 6% and 10% lower, respectively, in third quarter of 2010 compared to the second quarter as a result of an increase in products inventory. Compared to the same quarter last year, sales of silver in the third quarter of 2010 were 21% lower and gold sales were 19% lower due to a decrease in products inventory in the third quarter of 2009.

The Corporation recently announced the discovery of nine new veins and vein extensions at San José. To date the total strike length of the new veins and extensions is over five kilometers, which compares to a total strike length of about 17 kilometers for the previously known veins. The new veins are ideally located between the Kospi and the Frea veins, and the new veins can be accessed from workings on those veins. The Corporation is preparing an estimate of the resources for the new veins, and the results will be released before the end of October. Meanwhile, exploration around the existing mine and elsewhere on the joint venture property is continuing.

This news release is submitted by James K. Duff, Chief Operating Officer of Minera Andes Inc.

About Minera Andes Minera Andes is an exploration company exploring for gold, silver and copper in Argentina with three significant assets: a 49% interest in Minera Santa Cruz SA, owner of the San José Mine in close proximity to Andean Resources’ Cerro Negro project; 100% ownership of the Los Azules copper deposit with an inferred mineral resource of 10.3 billion pounds of copper and an indicated resource of 2.2 billion pounds of copper; and, 100% ownership of a portfolio of exploration properties bordering Andean’s Cerro Negro project in Santa Cruz Province. The Corporation had $8 million USD in cash as at June 30th 2010 with no bank debt. Rob McEwen, Chairman and CEO, owns 33% of the company.

About Minera Santa Cruz Minera Santa Cruz SA is a joint venture owned 51% by Hochschild Mining Argentina, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hochschild Mining plc, and 49% by Minera Andes S.A., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Corporation. The joint venture owns and operates the San José property.

About Hochschild Mining plc Hochschild Mining plc is a leading precious metals company listed on the London Stock Exchange (HOCM.L / HOC LN) with a primary focus on the exploration, mining, processing and sale of silver and gold. Hochschild has over forty years of experience in the mining of precious metal epithermal vein deposits and currently operates four underground epithermal vein mines, three located in southern Peru, one in southern Argentina and one open pit mine in northern Mexico. Hochschild also has numerous long-term prospects throughout the Americas.

For further information, please contact: Daniela Ozersky or visit our Web site: www.minandes.com.

Daniela Ozersky
Manager, Investor Relations
99 George St. 3rd Floor,
Toronto, Ontario, Canada. M5A 2N4
Toll-Free: 1-866-441-0690
Tel:647-258-0395
Fax: 647-258-0408
E-mail: info@minandes.com

Source: Company website

TORONTO, ON – October 7, 2010 – Minera Andes Inc. (the “Corporation” or “Minera Andes”) (TSX: MAI and US OTC: MNEAF) is pleased to announce the discovery of nine new high-grade gold/silver veins plus important extensions of two other veins, which together total more than five kilometres in strike length. The discoveries represent significant exploration progress at San José where the total strike length of all the previously known veins totalled approximately 17 kilometres. The new veins are located primarily between the Kospi and Frea veins, and can be accessed from existing mine workings (see Exhibit 1).

Rob McEwen, Chairman and CEO of Minera Andes, said:

“We are very excited by the discovery of the new veins at the San José mine. The drilling results demonstrate that the area in and around the San José mine is extremely prospective, and we anticipate these new veins will significantly extend the mine life. Recent events such as the $3.6 billion bid for Andean’s nearby Cerro Negro property highlight the world class potential of this emerging gold/silver district.”

Selected assay results for three of the most promising new veins are shown below. The complete assay results for the new veins and vein extensions are provided in Exhibit 2. All of the drilling reported in this press release was completed during 2010. The assays reported below and in Exhibit 2 were analyzed by Alex Stewart Argentina SA laboratory in Mendoza, Argentina, and received up until August 25th 2010. The widths shown below are true widths (normal to the dip of the vein). Longitudinal sections of the new veins and extensions are provided in Exhibit 3.

• Micaela Vein – 1,380 meter strike length, cut by 36 diamond drill holes.
  • Hole SJD-708 – 2.45 m (meters) at 8.33 g/t (grams/tonne) Au and 1,484 g/t Ag
  • Hole SJD-786 – 1.09 m at 33.50 g/t Au and 2752 g/t Ag
  • Hole SJD-807 – 0.53 m at 31.02 g/t Au and 629 g/t Ag
• Sofía Vein – 600 meter strike length, cut by 20 diamond drill holes.
  • Hole SJD-477 – 1.52 m at 7.71 g/t Au and 885 g/t Ag
  • Hole SJD-486 – 10.13 m at 14.96 g/t Au and 1096 g/t Ag
  • Hole SJD-491 – 5.45 m at 13.54 g/t Au and 206 g/t Ag
  • Hole SJD-726 – 1.72 m at 10.94 g/t Au and 1255 g/t Ag
• Antonella Vein – 870 meter strike length, cut by 13 diamond drill holes.
  • Hole SJD-524 – 5.30 m at 13.43 g/t Au and 199 g/t Ag

The following table provides a summary of new veins and extensions, the number of drill holes used to define the veins and the strike length of each. Complete assay data is provided in Exhibit 2.

The discoveries are a direct result of a significant increase in the exploration effort at San José compared to previous years. From the start of 2010 through September 25, 2010, a total of 47,431 meters have been completed in 233 diamond core holes, nearly double the drilling undertaken in 2009. The success of the current drilling is in large part a result of extensive surface geophysical surveys conducted during 2009 and 2010 that led to the development of the targets drilled this year. The geophysics consisted of 181 line-kilometres of induced polarity (“IP”)/resistivity, 55 line-kilometres of magnetics and 11 line-kilometres of pole-dipole IP. An updated 43-101 Report scheduled to be completed in the near future is being prepared that will contain full details of the 2010 and 2009 drilling.

A significant portion of the property continues to be open at depth and laterally. The discovery of the Micaela-Sofía vein system, which trends approximately east-west, is especially important because its orientation is different from the typical northwest trend of all the other veins at San José. The discovery of this system, which does not outcrop, will be used as an exploration guide to open up new exploration opportunities on the property. In addition, exploration drilling is continuing to expand resources in the known veins, including Ayelén and Odin, and exploration is also continuing in other areas of the property, such as the Saavedra and Aguas Vivas targets.

The Mineral Reserves and Resources for the San José mine as at December 31, 2009 were audited by P&E Mining Consultants and reported in the Corporation’s 2009 Annual Report (AIF), and are given in the following table.

None of the new veins are included in the December 31, 2009 resource or reserve estimate. An updated 43-101 Technical Report to be completed in the near future will include updated resource estimates including the new veins.

About Minera Andes Minera Andes is an exploration company exploring for gold, silver and copper in Argentina with three significant assets: A 49% interest in Minera Santa Cruz SA, owner of the San José Mine in close proximity to Andean Resources’ Cerro Negro project; 100% ownership of the Los Azules copper deposit with an inferred mineral resource of 10.3 billion pounds of copper and an indicated resource of 2.2 billion pounds of copper; and, 100% ownership of a portfolio of exploration properties bordering Andean’s Cerro Negro project in Santa Cruz Province. The Corporation had $8 million USD in cash as at June 30th 2010 with no bank debt. Rob McEwen, Chairman and CEO, owns 33% of the company.

About Minera Santa Cruz Minera Santa Cruz SA is a joint venture owned 51% by Hochschild Mining Argentina, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hochschild Mining plc, and 49% by Minera Andes S.A., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Corporation. The joint venture owns and operates the San José property.

About Hochschild Mining plc Hochschild Mining plc is a leading precious metals company listed on the London Stock Exchange (HOCM.L / HOC LN) with a primary focus on the exploration, mining, processing and sale of silver and gold. Hochschild has over forty years of experience in the mining of precious metal epithermal vein deposits and currently operates four underground epithermal vein mines, three located in southern Peru, one in southern Argentina and one open pit mine in northern Mexico. Hochschild also has numerous long-term prospects throughout the Americas.

This news release has been submitted by Jim Duff, Chief Operating Officer of the Corporation. For further information, please contact Jim Duff or Daniela Ozersky or visit our Web site: www.minandes.com.

Daniela Ozersky
Manager, Investor Relations

Jim Duff
Chief Operating Officer

Source: Company website

· Minera Andes signed formal loan agreement regarding $65 million project financing loan

· Settlement signed with immediate discontinuation of pending litigation

Hochschild Mining plc (“Hochschild”) today announces that it has signed an agreement with Minera Andes Inc (“MAI”) and its subsidiary, Minera Andes SA (“MASA”) regarding the $65 million project financing loan provided by Hochschild to the San José gold and silver mine in Argentina.  The parties have also agreed to restructure the 2004 shareholder loan agreement pursuant to which Hochschild and MAI lent approximately $50 million to the co-venture entity, known as Minera Santa Cruz (“MSC”).

Subject to final closing, which is expected to occur this week, the parties have agreed to a repayment schedule for the project finance loan and the shareholder loan over a maximum period of 8 years, with fixed interest rates of 7% per annum. Future payments on both the shareholder loan and project finance loan may be accelerated based on mine performance and metal prices thus maximizing cash flows for both MAI and Hochschild.

Hochschild has agreed to provide Minera Andes with the right to consent to certain extraordinary capital expenditures (not including regular sustaining CAPEX) in certain limited circumstances.

The San Jose mine, a co-venture between Hochschild and MAI, has been in operation since June 2007. Under the terms of letter agreements between the parties executed in October 2006, Hochschild alone provided the full amount of the project financing, totalling $65 million in instalments between October 2006 and July 2007. On 17 March 2010 Hochschild filed a lawsuit against Minera Andes alleging the undue delay in the execution of formal loan documents and repayment of the loan by MSC. Under the terms of the settlement, Hochschild will discontinue the litigation filed in the New York State Supreme Court.

The lawsuit had no impact on the running of the San José mine, which is operated by Hochschild. The mine has a throughput capacity of 530ktpa and in the first half of 2010, produced approximately 2 million ounces of silver and 36 thousand ounces of gold.

Ignacio Bustamante, CEO of Hochschild Mining said: “We are very pleased with the outcome of the negotiations and the ending of litigation. The properties and operation of MSC are located in a premium geological location in Argentina, neighbouring the Cerro Negro project which was recently sold by Andean to Goldcorp for US$3.6 billion.  We are confident that Hochschild and Minera Andes will now be able to focus their full efforts towards building a meaningful and constructive partnership to create further value for their respective shareholders through production at San Jose and further exploration in this very prospective area.”

Source: Hochschild Website

TORONTO, ONTARIO – August 13 2010 – Minera Andes Inc. (the “Corporation” or “Minera Andes”) (TSX: MAI and US OTC: MNEAF) is pleased to announce net income of $4.6 million ($0.02 per share basic and diluted) for the three month period ended June 30, 2010, compared to net income of $0.9 million ($0.00 per share basic and diluted) for the three months ended June 30, 2009. All amounts in this news release are in US dollars unless otherwise noted. Our financial statements and management’s discussion and analysis are available under the Corporation’s profile at www.sedar.com and www.sec.gov.

The increase in net income for the quarter was primarily due to an increase of $4.0 million in income on our investment in Minera Santa Cruz (“MSC”), which was partially offset by an increase of $0.3 million in total expenses for the quarter. This increase in expenses was a net result of a foreign currency exchange loss (due to a lower Canadian dollar) and an increase in legal expenses for the quarter, partially offset by a decrease in general and administrative costs.

Minera Andes has a 49% interest in the San José mine which is operated by MSC in the province of Santa Cruz, Argentina, an emerging gold/silver region home to many producing mines. Net proceeds realized by MSC from the sale of silver and gold for the quarter totaled $49.4 million as compared to $27.8 million for the first quarter of 2010, an increase of $21.6 million due to higher production and mill throughput as well as higher realized metal prices for both silver and gold. Net income at MSC for the second quarter was $11.3 million, an $8.9 million increase from the first quarter of this year. Silver and gold production came in at 1,220,794 ounces of silver and 19,707 ounces of gold, which were 48% and 20% higher respectively compared to the first quarter of this year. These figures are presented on a 100% basis.

The average weighted gross sale price for silver and gold sold for the quarter was $18.21 per ounce and $1,233 per ounce respectively, an increase of 8% and 12% respectively compared to the first quarter of this year. On a per ounce co-product basis the average production cash cost was $9.22 per ounce of silver and $602 per ounce of gold as compared to last quarter’s cash cost of $9.15 per ounce of silver and $599 per ounce of gold.

Minera Andes also has 100% ownership of the Los Azules copper deposit in San Juan, Argentina, and 100% ownership of a portfolio of exploration properties in the Deseado Massif region in Santa Cruz. Los Azules has inferred mineral resources of 900 million tonnes grading 0.52% copper, equivalent to 10.3 billion pounds of copper, as well as indicated resources of 137 million tonnes grading 0.73% copper, equivalent to 2.2 billion pounds of copper. The Deseado Massif is a highly prospective area host to major silver-gold deposits and producing mines.

As of June 30, 2010, Minera Andes had approximately $8 million in cash and cash equivalents, and continues to have no bank debt. Working capital at June 30, 2010 totaled $5.5 million.

About Minera Andes

Minera Andes is an exploration company exploring for gold, silver and copper in Argentina with three significant assets: A 49% interest in Minera Santa Cruz SA, owner of the San José Mine, a large primary silver producer that produced 4,998,000 oz of silver and 77,070 oz gold in 2009; 100% ownership of the Los Azules copper deposit; and a portfolio of exploration properties in the highly prospective Deseado Massif region of Santa Cruz Province in southern Argentina. The company has no bank debt.

This news release has been submitted by Perry Ing, Chief Financial Officer of the Corporation.

For further information, please contact: Daniela Ozersky or visit our Web site: www.minandes.com.

Daniela Ozersky
Manager, Investor Relations
99 George St. 3rd Floor,
Toronto, Ontario, Canada. M5A 2N4
Toll-Free: 1-866-441-0690
Tel: 647-258-0395
Fax: 647-258-0408
E-mail: info@minandes.com

Source: Company Website

TORONTO, ONTARIO – July 21, 2010 – Minera Andes Inc. (the “Corporation” or “Minera Andes”) (TSX: MAI and US OTC: MNEAF) announces the San José mine production results for the second quarter of 2010. During the second quarter, the San José mine produced 1,220,794 ounces of silver and 19,707 ounces of gold, of which 49% is attributable to Minera Andes.

*49% of the San José mine production is attributable to Minera Andes Inc.

Compared to the first quarter of 2010, the 2010 second quarter silver production was 48% higher and gold production was 20% higher. The increase in silver and gold production was primarily the result of higher mine production and mill feed tonnage compared to the first quarter. Mill throughput in the second quarter of 2010 was 20% higher than the previous quarter. In the second quarter the silver head grade increased 26% compared to the first quarter, and the gold head grade was 2% lower than the first quarter. The improved silver grades are related to ongoing development of the Kospi vein. Compared to the second quarter of 2009, the second quarter 2010 silver production decreased 3% and gold increased 9%.

Average daily mill throughput during the second quarter of 2010 was approximately 1,280 tonnes per day, which is 15% below the mill capacity of 1,500 tonnes per day. According to Minera Santa Cruz, our operating joint venture entity managed by Hochschild Mining plc (“MSC”), the mill operated below capacity due to lower mine production. As previously reported, mine production has been adversely impacted by delays in underground mine development.

MSC has further advised us that the development delays also impacted production grades because access to certain higher grade stoping areas was delayed. Consequently, second quarter 2010 mill feed grades continue to be lower than the average 2009 head grades. However, MSC has advised Minera Andes that they expect the grades to improve during the second half of the year

Milling operations are performing satisfactorily with recoveries in line with budget expectations. A series of modifications were made to the mill during 2009 and the first half of 2010 that resulted in improved operating efficiencies. A small Merrill Crow circuit was also installed in the fourth quarter of 2009 that is resulting in the recovery of incremental silver ounces and slightly improved silver recoveries. Aside from normal sustaining capital, which includes mine development and exploration, the Corporation is not aware of any new capital projects at San José.

Second quarter production cost information will be provided jointly with second quarter financial results.

Sales of silver and gold were 75% and 55% higher, respectively, in second quarter of 2010 compared to the first quarter as a result of increased ore production and a decrease in products inventory. Compared to the same quarter last year, sales of silver in the second quarter of 2010 were 24% lower while gold sales were at about the same level. This was due to lower ore production in the second quarter of 2010, differences in head grades and inventory liquidations in the second quarter of 2009.

This news release is submitted by James K. Duff, Chief Operating Officer of Minera Andes Inc.

About Minera Andes
Minera Andes is an exploration company exploring for gold, silver and copper in Argentina with three significant assets: A 49% interest in Minera Santa Cruz SA, which owns the San José Mine, one of the world’s largest primary silver producers that produced 4,998,000 million oz silver and 77,080 oz gold in 2009; 100% ownership of the Los Azules porphyry copper deposit in San Juan province, Argentina; and, a portfolio of exploration properties in the highly prospective Deseado Massif region of Santa Cruz Province in southern Argentina. Minera Andes had approximately $15 Million USD in cash and no bank debt as at March 31, 2010.

For further information, please contact: Daniela Ozersky or visit our Web site: www.minandes.com.

Daniela Ozersky
Manager, Investor Relations
99 George St. 3rd Floor,
Toronto, Ontario, Canada. M5A 2N4
Toll-Free: 1-866-441-0690
Tel:647-258-0395
Fax: 647-258-0408
E-mail: info@minandes.com

Newest member of our portfolio: Seabridge Gold (AMEX:SA)

Today we saw a big decline in gold prices, as well as in other commodities. This price dip is just what we have been waiting for. This is probably the last change to get into the precious metals at some very interesting price levels before prices of gold and silver will skyrocket. We have decided to invest in two companies instead of one, the first one is Seabridge Gold Inc. (AMEX:SA) be bought shares today @ US$ 28,36 max. buying price is set at US$ 29,90 We will follow this company very closely and keep you informed with all major news and development around this company just as we do with our other stock picks. More information about Seabridge and our motivation will follow in the next post.
The second company we have picked we will probably buy into tomorrow since this one trades in Toronto (closed today), just hope the gold price doesn’t pick up overnight! When we do get the change to buy we will let you know right away, we have all ready disclosed these two names to our newsletter readers this morning (CET).
Click here to go to the Seabridge Gold Company Page to see the interactive charts and more information

BUY ALERT

This price drop it just what you have been waiting for! Now a total of four great companies we picked can be bought at ridiculous low prices
Silver Wheaton Corp. (SLW) is now trading below US$ 19,90 This means it it now in the buying range!
Minera Andes (TO:MAI) is now trading below CAD$ 0,85 This means it is now in the buying range!

Great Panther (TO:GPR)remains in the buying range, buy below CAD$ 0,88

And out newest stock pick Seabridge Gold (AMEX:SA) is in the buying range below US$ 29,95