IAMGOLD Soars 144% in 6 Months: Here's How to Play the Stock

Core Viewpoint - IAMGOLD Corporation (IAG) has significantly outperformed its peers and the broader market over the past six months, driven by successful production ramp-up at its Côté Gold mine, higher gold prices, and improved cash flow expectations [2]. Group 1: Performance Metrics - IAG's stock has increased by 144.2% in the last six months, compared to a 69.4% rise in the Zacks Mining-Gold industry and a 13.8% increase in the S&P 500 [2]. - The company's attributable gold production rose to 190,000 ounces in Q3 2025, marking a 9.8% year-over-year increase, with Côté Gold contributing significantly by producing 75,000 attributable ounces, an 83% increase from the previous year [9][10]. - Revenue for Q3 2025 surged 61% year-over-year to $706.7 million, driven by higher realized gold prices of approximately $3,492 per ounce and increased sales volumes [11]. Group 2: Financial Position - IAMGOLD reduced its net debt by about $201.7 million in Q3 2025, supported by strong operating cash flow and improved liquidity [6][12]. - As of September 30, 2025, IAMGOLD had $314.3 million in cash and cash equivalents, with total liquidity of approximately $707.2 million available for operations and debt obligations [13]. - The company maintained disciplined capital spending with total capital expenditures of $51.5 million, including $39.7 million for sustaining capital and $11.8 million for expansion [14]. Group 3: Strategic Initiatives - IAMGOLD advanced key projects, achieving operational milestones at Côté Gold and expanding its exploration pipeline in Quebec through acquisitions [16][17]. - Ongoing drilling at Nelligan and Monster Lake is enhancing resource potential, while the company has also received approval for a share buyback program, indicating improved financial flexibility [18]. Group 4: Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for IAG's fiscal 2025 earnings is currently at 88 cents per share, reflecting a 60% year-over-year growth, with 2026 estimates at $1.62 per share, implying 84% growth [20]. Group 5: Valuation Metrics - IAMGOLD is trading at a forward 12-month price-to-sales multiple of 3.83X, slightly above the industry average of 3.76X [21].