ZACKS·2025-11-27 18:11Core Insights - AngloGold Ashanti PLC (AU) and SSR Mining Inc. (SSRM) are benefiting from rising gold prices, which are currently above $4,153 per ounce, driven by safe-haven demand and geopolitical risks [1][2][11] AngloGold Ashanti Overview - AngloGold Ashanti has a diversified portfolio with operations in multiple countries, including recent acquisitions of Augusta Gold Corp and Centamin, enhancing its asset base [4][5] - The company reported a 17% year-over-year increase in gold production to 768,000 ounces in Q3 2025, with gold revenues surging 61.9% to $2.37 billion [6] - Projected gold production for 2025 is between 2.9-3.225 million ounces, indicating a year-over-year growth of 9-21% [7] - Despite facing higher operating costs, AU generated a record $920 million in free cash flow in Q3 2025, a 141% increase year-over-year [9] - The company is focused on its Full Asset Potential program to mitigate inflationary impacts and streamline operations [10] SSR Mining Overview - SSR Mining operates in the United States, Turkey, Canada, and Argentina, with the recent acquisition of the Cripple Creek & Victor mine, positioning it as the third-largest gold producer in the U.S. [13] - Total gold production for SSR Mining is expected to be in the lower half of 410,000-480,000 gold equivalent ounces for 2025 [15] - Operations at the Çöpler mine in Turkey are currently suspended, with reclamation costs expected to range from $250-$300 million for 2025 [16] - As of September 30, 2025, SSR Mining had a cash balance of $409 million and available liquidity of $909.3 million [17] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AngloGold Ashanti's 2025 earnings is $5.71 per share, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 158.4% [18] - SSR Mining's earnings estimate for 2025 is $1.84 per share, indicating a year-over-year jump of 557% [18] Stock Performance and Valuation - Over the past six months, AU stock has gained 105.5%, while SSRM has increased by 92.8% [20] - AU is trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 13.88X, while SSRM is at 6.84X [21] Investment Outlook - Both companies are well-positioned to capitalize on the ongoing rally in gold prices, with AU showing stronger price performance and robust project pipeline [23][24]