ZACKSยท2025-09-24 13:21Core Viewpoint - Newmont Corporation (NEM) and Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC) are positioned to benefit from soaring gold prices driven by the Federal Reserve's dovish stance and global trade tensions [1][2][3] Gold Market Overview - Gold prices have surged approximately 43% this year, reaching over $3,700 per ton for the first time, influenced by central bank purchases and geopolitical uncertainties [3] - Central banks globally are accumulating gold reserves due to risks associated with aggressive trade policies [2] Newmont Corporation (NEM) - Newmont is investing in growth projects such as the Ahafo North expansion in Ghana and the Cadia Panel Caves in Australia, aimed at increasing production capacity and extending mine life [5] - The acquisition of Newcrest Mining Limited has enhanced Newmont's portfolio, expected to generate $500 million in annual run-rate synergies [6] - Newmont's divestiture program is projected to yield $3 billion in after-tax cash proceeds, reinforcing its capital allocation strategy [8] - The company reported a liquidity position of $10.2 billion, with free cash flow increasing to $1.7 billion, and has returned approximately $2 billion to shareholders [9] - Newmont offers a dividend yield of 1.2% with a sustainable payout ratio of 20% [10] Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC) - Kinross has a strong production profile with key projects like Great Bear in Ontario and Round Mountain Phase X in Nevada, expected to enhance cash flow [12] - Tasiast and Paracatu are significant contributors to cash flow, with Tasiast being the lowest-cost asset [13] - Kinross ended Q2 2025 with liquidity of approximately $2.8 billion and reported a free cash flow increase of 87% year-over-year [14] - The company repaid $800 million of debt in 2024, improving its net debt position to around $100 million [15] - Kinross has a dividend yield of 0.5% with a payout ratio of 10% [15] Financial Performance and Valuation - Year-to-date, NEM stock has increased by 127.5%, while KGC stock has risen by 164.1%, outperforming the industry average of 117.7% [18] - KGC trades at a forward earnings multiple of 16.52, while NEM trades at 15.38, indicating a discount for Newmont [19][20] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NEM's 2025 sales and EPS indicates growth of 10.7% and 57.5%, respectively, while KGC's estimates imply growth of 27.8% and 108.8% [24][25] Investment Consideration - Both companies are well-positioned to capitalize on high gold prices, with strong financial health and development pipelines [27] - Newmont is viewed as a more attractive investment option due to its higher dividend yield and favorable valuation compared to Kinross [27]