In my opinion, the SC PEA is very conservative.
The grades are proving to be higher than anticipated, the recoveries are to the floor and the mill is only set at 92%, when 95% is at reach for state of the art mines. With some small improvements, SC could spit a lot more CuEq "almost for free". That goes directly to the bottom line.
Lets also not forget that the PEA has a 25% contingency ($586M) and allocated $154M for closure after 21 years. Like if SC will close after that period. Contingency would probably reduce at PFS stage.
Also, construction timeline could be reduced by maybe 1 year? Opex still improved with a lower strip ratio? Metal prices now much higher?
SC might not have a high IRR like San Nicolas or Zafranal, but running a project for many decades vs. a short period is highly valuable.
I agree with Jay. As they say, keep the best for the end!
MoneyK