Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Barrick reported adjusted earnings per share of $0.47, more than doubling compared to the previous year and marking the highest level since 2013 [5][10] - The company finished the quarter in a net cash position, allowing for share buybacks and a total dividend of $0.15 per share, which includes a $0.05 performance top-up [6][10] - Net cash provided by operating activities was €1,330,000,000, up 35% from the previous quarter, excluding interest and income taxes [10] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold production improved across the portfolio, with significant contributions from Nevada Gold Mines, Pueblo Viejo, Kibali, and Lomana [7][14] - In copper, production volumes increased, and unit costs decreased, reflecting a clear year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter improvement [8][10] - The sale of the Donlin Gold Project for $1,000,000,000 was completed, further sharpening the growth pipeline [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company continues to leverage high gold prices, with production tracking guidance and expectations for a stronger second half of the year [5][10] - The performance in Latin America and Asia Pacific was solid, with improvements noted at Pueblo Viejo and Valadero [22][23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Barrick is focused on disciplined capital allocation and building long-term profitability through Tier one assets and new projects [11][38] - The company aims to grow production by 30% organically by 2029, emphasizing the importance of long-life assets and strong partnerships [38][39] - The strategic focus includes optimizing the life of mines to ensure long-term delivery rather than maximizing net present value [89] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the uncertain global environment but reinforced the value of a diversified portfolio and effective operations [4][10] - The second half of the year is expected to deliver higher volumes and lower costs, aligning with full-year guidance [37][38] - Management remains optimistic about the potential of the Fourmile asset, which is emerging as a significant discovery [15][21] Other Important Information - Health and safety remain a core priority, with a 50% decrease in lost time injuries year-to-date compared to the previous year [12] - The company is actively managing the situation in Mali and is committed to finding a constructive path forward [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: Timeline for arbitration process regarding Lulu and Kotto - Management believes a resolution can be found and has engaged in various mediation efforts, with the tribunal already constituted [40][41] Question: Fit of Hemlo, Tongon, and Zaldivar in the portfolio - Management is focused on rationalizing the portfolio to align with their disciplined approach to Tier one long-life assets [44][45] Question: Updates on Fourmile's scope and timeline - Management aims to have a scoping position for Fourmile by the end of the year, with plans for prefeasibility or feasibility studies thereafter [46][47] Question: Situation regarding the book value of Lulu Gonkoto - The asset was deconsolidated due to loss of control, leading to a write-off, but the company still expects benefits from its investment [54][55] Question: Update on Jabal Saeed project in Saudi Arabia - The project is a small high-grade copper mine with a ten-year life, and Barrick is expanding its partnership with Ma'aden for further exploration [58][60] Question: Electricity situation in Zambia for Lumwana - Management has worked with state utilities to improve power availability and is investing in technology to unlock lost power in the grid [63][64]