Dundee Precious Metals Announces Proposed Acquisition of Adriatic Metals

Core Viewpoint - Dundee Precious Metals Inc. has agreed to acquire Adriatic Metals plc for an implied equity value of approximately $1.3 billion, which will enhance DPM's asset portfolio and production capabilities through the acquisition of the Vareš operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina [1][3][6] Strategic Rationale - The acquisition of Vareš is expected to create a premier mining business with a strong growth profile and high-quality development pipeline [2][3] - Vareš will significantly increase DPM's mine life and provide near-term production growth, cash flow diversification, and a prospective land package [4][6] - The transaction is anticipated to unlock further value for shareholders of both companies and benefit local communities [4][6] Vareš Overview - Vareš is a high-grade precious metals underground mine with an initial operating life of 15 years and a prospective land package of 4,400 hectares [5][7] - The mine is expected to ramp up production to 425,000 gold equivalent ounces by 2027 [6] Technical Report Highlights - The independent technical report prepared for Vareš indicates a mineral reserve of 9.5 million tonnes with an average gold equivalent grade of 9.21 grams per tonne [10][11] - The life of mine operating costs are projected at $1,050 million, with an all-in sustaining cost of $893 per gold ounce [10][11] Financial Metrics - The base case NPV5% for Vareš is estimated at $1.6 billion, with projected post-tax cash flow of $2.1 billion over the initial mine life [11][12] - Initial capital expenditures for the project are estimated at $76 million, with sustaining capital of $143 million over the life of the mine [12] Transaction Summary - Under the terms of the transaction, Adriatic shareholders will receive 0.1590 DPM shares and 93 pence in cash for each Adriatic share, valuing each Adriatic share at £2.68 [13][14] - Post-transaction, DPM shareholders are expected to own approximately 75% of the enlarged issued share capital [16][18] Closing Conditions - The transaction is subject to approval from Adriatic shareholders, court approval, and regulatory approvals, including from the Bosnian Competition Council [17][18]