Western Region Gold (SH:601069) Guo Ji Jin Rong Bao·2025-07-30 02:40Core Viewpoint - Western Gold Co., Ltd. announced a cash acquisition of 100% equity in Xinjiang Meisheng Mining Co., Ltd. from its controlling shareholder, Xinjiang Nonferrous Metals Industry Group, for 1.655 billion yuan, which has attracted significant market attention due to its high premium of 1421.66% and strategic value [1][3]. Acquisition Details - The net asset value of Xinjiang Meisheng is only 109 million yuan, while its assessed value is 1.655 billion yuan, resulting in an increase of 1.546 billion yuan and a valuation increase rate of 1421.66% [3]. - The assessment was conducted using the asset-based method rather than the income method, as it better reflects the market value of mineral resources [3]. - Xinjiang Meisheng is currently in a loss-making state, with projected net losses of 35.943 million yuan for 2024 and 14.162 million yuan for the first quarter of 2025 [3]. - The core asset of Xinjiang Meisheng is the Kataba Asu gold-copper polymetallic mine, which contains 78.7 tons of gold, 49,000 tons of copper, and 125.54 tons of associated silver [3]. Impact on Western Gold - Post-acquisition, Western Gold's gold resource reserves will increase from 32.15 tons to 110.85 tons, representing a 245% increase [3]. - The Kataba Asu gold-copper mine is expected to commence production in the second half of 2025, with a designed capacity of 4,000 tons per day and an annual gold output of 3.3 tons [3][4]. - This additional output is equivalent to 34.4% of Western Gold's projected gold production for 2024, which is 9.59 tons, significantly enhancing the company's gold production capacity [4]. Financial Performance - Western Gold has focused on gold mining and smelting, possessing a complete industry chain from exploration to sales, with rich production technology and management experience [5]. - In 2023, the company faced challenges, resulting in a net loss of 274 million yuan and a gross margin of only 5.03% [5]. - However, in 2024, due to rising gold prices and increased manganese business, the company is expected to recover strongly, achieving revenue of 7 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 56.68%, and a net profit of 290 million yuan with a gross margin of 11.42% [5]. Strategic Context - The acquisition aligns with Xinjiang Nonferrous's previous commitment to avoid competition and transfer Xinjiang Meisheng to Western Gold before production begins, fulfilling its promise [4]. - The acquisition is seen as a potential breakthrough for Western Gold in addressing its resource shortage, although there are concerns about the future profitability of the mine and its impact on the company's net profit [7].