Operational review

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Teck Resources (NYSE:TECK) Update / Briefing Transcript
2025-10-08 13:00
Teck Resources (NYSE:TECK) Update Summary Company Overview - **Company**: Teck Resources - **Date of Call**: October 08, 2025 - **Focus**: Comprehensive operational review and updates on QB action plan Key Points Operational Review and Action Plan - A comprehensive operations review was launched in August to improve performance through a detailed QB action plan [4] - The review involved third-party technical experts and independent advisers, focusing on enhancing operational practices and establishing achievable plans [4][5] - Enhanced monitoring and tracking of operational performance have been implemented, with direct reporting from SVPs of operations to the CEO [6] QB Operations Update - QB's production has been limited by tailings management facility (TMF) development work, affecting mill availability [7] - Year-to-date mill availability was 87%, but actual utilization was only 70% due to TMF constraints [8] - Recoveries improved sequentially in 2024 but have been impacted in 2025 by transition ores and TMF-related stoppages [9][10] - The focus remains on enabling safe, unconstrained production by raising the dam's crest height [11] TMF Development Work - Key issues include slow drainage of sand due to ultra fines, which has delayed the construction of the sand dam [12][13] - Significant work has been undertaken to improve sand drainage times, with positive initial test results [14] - The TMF development work is expected to continue into 2026, with completion anticipated by the end of that year [22] Revised Guidance and Production Outlook - Changes to guidance reflect a slower ramp-up due to TMF development, with lower recoveries assumed [24] - Average grade at QB is expected to be approximately 0.59% in 2026, with copper production guidance revised to 200,000 to 235,000 tons [30][32] - For 2027, average annual grade is expected to be 0.64%, with production guidance of 240,000 to 275,000 tons [32] - The 2028 production guidance is also revised to 220,000 to 255,000 tons due to lower grade areas being mined [33] Capital Expenditure - Capital guidance for TMF development work in 2026 is CAD $420 million, covering various initiatives including rock bench construction and sand drainage improvements [31][62] - Future capital expenditures for TMF beyond 2026 are expected to be minimal as operations transition to steady state [62] Long-term Potential and Synergies - Despite current challenges, QB remains a world-class Tier one asset with significant potential [38] - The merger with Anglo American is expected to unlock value through synergies between QB and the adjacent Coyoacci operation [40] - The completion of TMF development work is anticipated to eliminate constraints on mill operations from 2027 onwards [42] Additional Insights - The operational review has led to more conservative assumptions and risk adjustments in guidance [41] - The focus on execution and oversight has been strengthened at all levels of the organization [41] Conclusion - Teck Resources is navigating operational challenges primarily related to TMF development, with a focus on improving performance and achieving long-term production goals. The company remains optimistic about its future potential, particularly with the anticipated synergies from the merger with Anglo American.