The Globe and Mail reports in its Thursday edition that National Bank Financial analyst Mohamed Sidibe is keeping his "outperform" recommendation for Montage Gold intact. The Globe's David Leeder writes that Mr. Sidibe gave his share target a 75-cent boost to a Street-high $9.50. Analysts on average target the shares at $7.83. Mr. Sidibe says a recent visit to Montage Gold's Kone project in Ivory Coast showcased a company excelling in exploration, development and operational readiness. Mr. Sidibe says in a note: "Kone construction is advancing ahead of schedule for key components, with the team demonstrating strong execution and cost discipline. The oxide circuit is progressing rapidly, potentially allowing first gold pour in Q4/26, in line with our model. This pace is supported by a capable team and a well-structured owner-construction model, providing flexibility and controlling upfront mining capital. The project remains on budget, with over 58 per cent of capex committed as of November. Exploration opportunities are abundant and backed by a quality team with in-country experience." He raised his net-asset-value assumptions to "reflect some of the strong exploration upside potential that exists within Montage."