Centerra Gold vs. IAMGOLD: Which Gold Miner is the Better Buy?

Core Insights - Centerra Gold Inc. (CGAU) and IAMGOLD Corporation (IAG) are attracting investor interest due to strong gold prices and improving operational metrics in the precious metals sector [1][2] Group 1: Centerra Gold Inc. (CGAU) - Centerra Gold reported a strong third quarter with consistent production, generating significant cash flow from its core assets, producing 49,234 ounces at the Öksüt Mine and 32,539 ounces of gold along with 13.4 million pounds of copper at the Mount Milligan Mine [3][6] - The Mount Milligan Mine's long-term permitting and technical work has been advanced, extending operational visibility to 2045 and allowing for a 10% processed throughput expansion by 2028 [4][5] - As of the end of Q3, CGAU had approximately $561.8 million in cash, a long-term debt-to-capitalization ratio of 2.3%, and a free cash flow of about $99 million, providing substantial liquidity for operations and growth projects [6][9] Group 2: IAMGOLD Corporation (IAG) - IAMGOLD achieved a total attributable gold production of approximately 190,000 ounces in Q3 2025, with the Côté Gold Mine producing a record 106,000 ounces [7][10] - The Essakane Mine produced 92,000 ounces despite operational challenges, while the Westwood Complex contributed around 23,000 ounces [8][12] - IAG's cash and cash equivalents were about $314 million at the end of Q3, with a long-term debt-to-capitalization ratio of 21.3% and a record mine-site free cash flow of $292 million [12] Group 3: Comparative Analysis - CGAU's stock has increased by 198.7% over the past year, while IAG's stock has risen by 248.5% [15] - CGAU is trading at a forward 12-month sales multiple of 2.91X, compared to IAG's 4.47X [16] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate suggests a 47.8% year-over-year rise in CGAU's fiscal 2026 EPS, while IAG's EPS is expected to rise by 98.1% [19][20] Group 4: Investment Outlook - CGAU is positioned as a more reliable investment due to its stronger balance sheet, lower leverage, and higher liquidity, while IAG presents upside potential through the ramp-up of the Côté Gold project, albeit with execution risks [21][22] - CGAU holds a Zacks Rank of 1 (Strong Buy), while IAG has a Zacks Rank of 3 (Hold) [22]