Tiago Cunha Increases Stake in South Star Battery Metals via Private Placement

South Star Battery Metals Corp. announced that Tiago Sampaio Cunha, the company's interim CEO, President, and director, has significantly increased his ownership stake through a recent private placement. On May 15, 2026, the company closed the first tranche of a non-brokered private offering, which was previously upsized from C$4.0 million to C$4.8 million. Through his controlled fund, GROU SPO FUNDO DE INVESTIMENTO EM ACOES INVESTIMENTO NO EXTERIOR, Mr. Cunha purchased 15,413,333 common shares at C$0.15 per share. This acquisition brings his total direct and indirect holdings to 41,456,085 shares and 13,900,000 warrants. Consequently, his ownership percentage has risen to 38.23% on a non-diluted basis and 45.25% on a partially diluted basis. The announcement serves as an Early Warning Report filed under Canadian securities regulations. Mr. Cunha retains the option to acquire or dispose of additional securities based on future market conditions and investment opportunities. The transaction highlights continued insider confidence in the Vancouver-based battery metals explorer during its capital raising efforts.