Mining – Gold
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Can Kinross Gold's Profits Keep Shining Amid Higher Costs?
ZACKS· 2026-01-28 15:16
Core Insights - Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC) experienced a 17% year-over-year increase in attributable production cost of sales per ounce, reaching $1,145 in Q3, primarily due to higher royalty costs linked to rising gold prices [1] - All-in-sustaining costs (AISC) rose nearly 20% year-over-year to $1,622 per gold equivalent ounce sold, up from $1,493 in the previous quarter, indicating inflationary pressures [1] - Despite a 40% increase in average realized gold prices, which boosted Q3 profits, the rise in unit costs highlights ongoing inflation challenges [7] Cost Guidance and Projections - KGC's guidance suggests continued cost pressures through 2025, with expected full-year AISC per gold equivalent ounce around $1,500 (+/- 5%) and production cash costs approximately $1,120 (+/- 5%) per ounce [2] - The company anticipates that AISC will be at the higher end of its guidance due to increased sustaining capital, with Q4 AISC expected to rise sequentially [2][7] - The consensus estimate for Q4 AISC is approximately $1,823 per gold equivalent ounce sold, reflecting a 12% sequential and 21% year-over-year increase [3] Peer Comparison - Barrick Mining Corporation reported a 3% increase in cash costs per ounce of gold and a 2% rise in AISC year-over-year in Q3, with AISC at $1,538 [4] - Newmont Corporation reduced its Q3 AISC to $1,566 per ounce, a 3% decrease from the prior year, attributed to lower costs applicable to sales and administrative expenses [5] Stock Performance and Valuation - KGC's shares surged 141.9% over the past six months, outperforming the Mining – Gold industry, which rose 95.8%, largely driven by the rally in gold prices [6] - KGC is currently trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 16.18, slightly below the industry average of 16.38 [9] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a significant year-over-year earnings rise of 154.4% for 2025 and 36.1% for 2026, with EPS estimates trending higher over the past 60 days [10]
Barrick Mining's Gold Sales Drop Y/Y in Q3: Will It Rebound in Q4?
ZACKS· 2026-01-16 15:41
Core Insights - Barrick Mining Corporation experienced a 13% year-over-year decline in third-quarter 2025 gold sales volumes to 837,000 ounces, primarily due to lower production linked to the suspension of operations at the Loulo-Gounkoto mine [1][7] - The company forecasts gold production for 2025 to be between 3.15 million and 3.5 million ounces, a decrease from 3.91 million ounces in 2024, excluding the suspended Loulo-Gounkoto mine [2][7] - The consensus estimate for fourth-quarter gold production is approximately 881,000 ounces, indicating an 18% year-over-year decline, which may continue to affect sales volumes despite higher realized gold prices [3] Production and Sales Performance - Barrick's third-quarter production fell 12% year over year to 829,000 ounces, contributing to the decline in sales volumes [1][7] - The anticipated production increase from other mines like Pueblo Viejo, Turquoise Ridge, Porgera, and Kibali is expected to be offset by reduced output from Veladero and Phoenix, along with the impact of divestments [2] Industry Comparison - Newmont Corporation reported a 16% year-over-year decline in gold sales volumes and a 15% decrease in production, reflecting similar challenges in the industry [4] - In contrast, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited saw a 1% year-over-year increase in gold sales volumes, indicating a more favorable performance compared to Barrick and Newmont [5] Financial Metrics - Barrick's shares have appreciated by 133.9% over the past six months, outperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry's increase of 85.3% due to a rally in gold prices [6] - The company is currently trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 14.97, which is about 3.2% lower than the industry average of 15.46 [8] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Barrick's 2025 earnings suggests a year-over-year increase of 79.4%, with stable EPS estimates over the past 60 days [9]
Does Kinross Gold's 212% Surge in a Year Justify Buying It Now?
ZACKS· 2026-01-15 14:00
Core Insights - Kinross Gold Corporation's (KGC) shares have increased by 212.3% over the past year, significantly outperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry's growth of 155.6% and the S&P 500's rise of 19.7% [1][2] - The surge in KGC's stock price is attributed to solid earnings performance driven by higher realized gold prices and strong operating margins, alongside a favorable macroeconomic environment [2][7] Stock Performance - KGC's stock has been trading above the 200-day simple moving average (SMA) since March 6, 2024, indicating a bullish trend [5] - The stock is also trading above its 50-day SMA, which is higher than the 200-day moving average, further supporting the bullish outlook [5] Financial Performance - KGC reported record free cash flow of approximately $686.7 million for the third quarter of 2025, a 66% year-over-year increase, driven by strong gold prices and operational performance [13] - The company ended the third quarter of 2025 with robust liquidity of around $3.4 billion, including cash and cash equivalents of approximately $1.7 billion [13] Development Projects - KGC has a strong production profile with key development projects such as Great Bear in Ontario and Round Mountain Phase X in Nevada, which are expected to enhance production and cash flow [10][11] - Tasiast and Paracatu, KGC's two largest assets, are key contributors to cash flow generation, with Tasiast achieving record annual production and cash flow in 2024 [12] Shareholder Returns - KGC reactivated its share buyback program in April 2025, repurchasing shares worth approximately $405 million as of November 4, 2025, and plans to return around $750 million through dividends and repurchases for the full year [15] - The company has increased its quarterly dividend by 17% to 3.5 cents per common share, indicating a commitment to returning value to shareholders [15][16] Market Outlook - Analysts have raised earnings estimates for KGC over the past 60 days, with the Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 earnings pegged at $1.68, reflecting a year-over-year growth of 147.1% [20] - KGC is currently trading at a forward price/earnings ratio of 14.64X, which is a discount compared to the industry average of 15.38X, indicating potential value for investors [23] Investment Thesis - KGC is positioned as a compelling investment opportunity due to its strong fundamentals, expanding production pipeline, and robust financial health, making it a prudent choice for investors seeking to capitalize on favorable market conditions [24]
Will Lower Capex Help Newmont Sustain Free Cash Flow Momentum in Q4?
ZACKS· 2026-01-14 14:56
Core Insights - Newmont Corporation (NEM) achieved record free cash flow of $1.6 billion in Q3 2025, more than doubling year-over-year, driven by lower capital expenditures and increased net cash from operating activities [2][8] - The company reduced its total capital expenditures by approximately 17% year-over-year to $727 million, and lowered its capital guidance for 2025 by $200 million [1][3] Financial Performance - NEM's free cash flow exceeded $1 billion for the fourth consecutive quarter, reflecting strong operational performance [2] - The reduction in sustaining capital by $150 million to $1,725 million and development capital by $50 million to $1,280 million contributed to the overall decrease in capital spending [3] Future Outlook - Despite lower capital expenditures, NEM cautioned that free cash flow in Q4 may be impacted by increased spending on Yanacocha's water treatment construction and planned severance payments [4][8] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate indicates a projected earnings increase of 81.9% for 2025 and 15.1% for 2026, with EPS estimates trending higher over the past 60 days [10] Industry Comparison - In contrast, Barrick Mining Corporation's capital expenditures increased by 30% year-over-year in Q3, with expectations for further increases in 2025 [5] - Agnico Eagle Mines Limited also anticipates high capital spending levels in 2025, with expenditures projected between $1.75 billion and $1.95 billion [6] Stock Performance - NEM shares have risen 88.5% over the past six months, outperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry, which increased by 79.6% [7]
Can Kinross Gold Sustain Its Robust Margin Momentum in Q4?
ZACKS· 2026-01-13 14:35
Core Insights - Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC) reported a significant increase in operating margin in Q3, attributed to rising gold prices, effective cost management, and strong production performance [1][7] - The margin per gold equivalent ounce sold increased to $2,310, reflecting a 54% year-over-year growth, which outpaced the 40% rise in average realized gold price to $3,460 per ounce [1][7] Financial Performance - KGC generated record free cash flow of approximately $686.7 million in Q3, a 66% increase year-over-year, driven by strong gold prices and operational performance [2][7] - For the first nine months of 2025, free cash flow reached around $1.7 billion, with the Paracatu and Tasiast mines contributing significantly to this performance [2] Future Outlook - The company expects to maintain strong margin performance in Q4 due to ongoing cost-control measures and sustained strength in gold prices [3][7] - KGC is prioritizing margin improvement to enhance cash flow, which is anticipated to support shareholder returns [3] Industry Comparison - Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (AEM) also reported record operating margins in Q3, with a 62% year-over-year increase, benefiting from higher realized gold prices [4] - Newmont Corporation (NEM) achieved a reduction in all-in sustaining costs (AISC) to $1,566 per ounce, a 2% decrease from the previous quarter, indicating a commitment to cost discipline and productivity improvements [5] Stock Performance - KGC's shares have increased by 111.3% over the past six months, outperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry, which rose by 74% [6] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for KGC's earnings in 2025 and 2026 indicates a year-over-year rise of 147.1% and 35.2%, respectively, with EPS estimates trending higher [8] Valuation Metrics - KGC is currently trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 14.49, which is a 1.2% discount to the industry average of 14.66 [9] - The company holds a Value Score of B, indicating a favorable valuation relative to its peers [9]
AU Trades at a Discount to Industry: Right Time to Buy the Stock?
ZACKS· 2026-01-09 18:26
Core Insights - AngloGold Ashanti PLC (AU) stock is trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 11.58X, which is below the industry average of 14.58X [1][7] - The stock has increased by 279.8% over the past year, outperforming the industry and sector averages [4][8] Valuation and Performance - AU's valuation is attractive compared to peers like Agnico Eagle Mines (AEM) at 19.28X and Newmont Corporation (NEM) at 15.12X [3][7] - The company generated a record free cash flow of $920 million in Q3 2025, a 141% increase year-over-year [15] Financial Results - Adjusted EBITDA rose 9% in Q3 2025 to $1.56 million, driven by a 17% increase in gold production and higher metal prices [11] - Gold revenues surged 61.9% to $2.37 billion in Q3 2025, with earnings per share increasing 136% to $1.32 [12] Production Outlook - Gold production for 2025 is projected to be between 2.9 million and 3.225 million ounces, indicating a year-over-year growth of 9-21% [17] - The company expects similar output levels for 2026 [17] Strategic Growth Initiatives - AngloGold Ashanti is pursuing both organic and inorganic growth, including the acquisition of Centamin and Augusta Gold Corp [18][19] - The company plans to invest $100 million over the next three years for the expansion of the Geita Gold Mine [20] Market Position and Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 sales is $9.85 billion, reflecting a 70.1% year-over-year increase, with earnings estimated at $5.51 per share, a 149.3% rise [22] - The 2026 sales estimate suggests a 22.5% year-over-year growth [23]
Can Agnico Eagle's Ultra-Low Debt Profile Fuel Bigger Growth?
ZACKS· 2026-01-09 16:41
Core Insights - Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (AEM) is committed to financial discipline, reducing long-term debt by approximately $400 million to $196 million at the end of Q3, while maintaining a net cash position of nearly $2.2 billion [1][7] - The company generated about $1.2 billion in free cash flow during Q3, nearly doubling the previous year's figure of $620 million, driven by strong gold prices and operational results [2][7] - AEM's long-term debt-to-capitalization ratio stands at around 1.2%, indicating low financial risk and enhanced flexibility for funding growth and shareholder returns [3][7] Financial Performance - AEM's free cash flow generation has significantly improved, allowing for a healthy exploration budget and debt reduction [2][3] - The company's disciplined approach to deleveraging has strengthened its financial flexibility, enabling it to finance growth initiatives without heavy reliance on external funding [3] Peer Comparison - Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC) has also improved its leverage profile, with a record free cash flow of approximately $686.7 million in Q3, up 66% year-over-year [4] - Newmont Corporation (NEM) reduced its debt by about $2 billion in Q3, achieving a near-zero net debt position and maintaining robust liquidity of $9.6 billion [5] Market Performance - AEM's shares have increased by 57.8% over the past six months, compared to a 73.8% rise in the Zacks Mining – Gold industry, attributed to rising gold prices [6] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AEM's earnings in 2025 and 2026 suggests year-over-year increases of 86.1% and 22.5%, respectively [8] Valuation - AEM is currently trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 19.27, which is approximately 32.2% higher than the industry average of 14.58 [10] - The stock carries a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), indicating strong market confidence [11]
Can AngloGold Ashanti Finish 2025 With Strong Free Cash Flow Growth?
ZACKS· 2025-12-22 18:26
Core Insights - AngloGold Ashanti plc reported a significant 185% increase in free cash flow for the first nine months of 2025, reaching $1.86 billion, with a record $920 million in Q3, driven by cost discipline, higher production, and rising gold prices [2][10] - The company achieved a net cash inflow from operating activities of $3.17 billion, a 147% year-over-year increase, supported by solid gold sales and increased dividends from joint ventures, despite higher operating costs and tax payments [3] - AngloGold Ashanti's gold production rose 20% year-over-year to 2.292 million ounces, bolstered by contributions from the Sukari mine and improved performances at key assets [5][10] Financial Performance - The available liquidity as of September 30, 2025, was $3.9 billion, including cash and cash equivalents of $2.5 billion [4] - The company affirmed its 2025 production guidance of 2.900-3.225 million ounces, indicating a year-over-year growth of 9-21% [6][10] - AngloGold Ashanti's stock has appreciated 282.7% over the past year, outperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry, which saw a 151.8% increase [9] Valuation and Estimates - The forward 12-month earnings multiple for AngloGold Ashanti is 111.13X, which is discounted compared to the industry average of 13.61X [12] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2025 sales is $9.67 billion, reflecting a 66.9% year-over-year increase, with earnings estimated at $5.51 per share, a 149.3% rise [14] - EPS estimates for 2025 have increased by 3.8% over the past 60 days, while 2026 estimates have risen by 29.6% [15]
Is AU Poised for Another Robust Y/Y Adjusted EBITDA Increase?
ZACKS· 2025-12-17 18:11
Core Insights - AngloGold Ashanti plc (AU) has achieved a significant year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA, driven by higher production volumes, cost discipline, and elevated gold prices, with adjusted EBITDA reaching $4.12 billion in the first nine months of 2025, a 121% increase from the previous year [1][7]. Production Performance - AU's gold production rose by 20% year over year in the first nine months of 2025, totaling 2.292 million ounces, primarily due to strong contributions from the recently acquired Sukari mine and improved performances at key assets such as Obuasi, Siguiri, Geita, and Cerro Vanguardia [2][7]. Cost Efficiency Initiatives - The company's Full Asset Potential Program has been instrumental in driving cost efficiencies and protecting operations against inflation, with the Full Asset Potential Refresh phase currently being implemented across its assets [3]. Production Guidance - Based on solid production performance, AU has reaffirmed its 2025 production guidance of 2.900-3.225 million ounces, indicating a year-over-year growth of 9-21%, setting an optimistic tone for the fourth quarter [4][7]. Peer Comparison - In comparison, Newmont Corporation (NEM) reported an adjusted EBITDA of $8.93 billion in the first nine months of 2025, a 58.8% increase year over year, while Agnico Eagle Mines (AEM) saw a 67% increase to $5.60 billion [5]. Stock Performance - AU's stock has surged 281.3% over the past year, outperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry, which increased by 146%, while the Basic Materials sector rose by 30.6% and the S&P 500 grew by 19.4% [6]. Valuation Metrics - Currently, AngloGold Ashanti is trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 13.14X, slightly below the industry average of 13.61X, with a Value Score of B [9]. Sales and Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for AU's 2025 sales is $9.67 billion, reflecting a 66.9% year-over-year increase, with earnings estimated at $5.51 per share, indicating a 149.3% rise [11]. Earnings Growth Trends - EPS estimates for 2025 have increased by 3.8% over the past 60 days, while estimates for 2026 have risen by 29.6% during the same period [13]. Zacks Rank - AU currently holds a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy), indicating strong market confidence in the company's performance [14].
Will Falling Gold Production Weigh on Newmont's Q4 Performance?
ZACKS· 2025-12-16 15:56
Core Insights - Newmont Corporation (NEM) experienced a decline in gold production for Q3 2025, with a 15% year-over-year and 4% sequential decrease, totaling 1.42 million ounces, marking the third consecutive quarter of production decline [1][7]. Production Factors - The reduction in production was attributed to lower grades, planned shutdowns at Penasquito and Lihir, and the cessation of mining operations at the Subika open pit at Ahafo South. Additionally, strategic asset sales aimed at focusing on Tier-1 operations have impacted production levels [2][7]. Future Production Expectations - Newmont anticipates maintaining its gold production target for 2025 at approximately 5.9 million ounces. For Q4, production is expected to be around 1.415 million ounces, which represents a projected 25% year-over-year decline [3][7]. Competitive Landscape - Barrick Mining Corporation reported a 12% year-over-year decline in Q3 2025 gold production to 829,000 ounces, primarily due to the suspension of operations at its Loulo-Gounkoto mine. Barrick expects its full-year production to be in the lower end of the range of 3.15-3.5 million ounces [4]. - Agnico Eagle Mines Limited's payable gold production was 866,963 ounces in Q3, slightly up from the previous year. The company maintains its full-year production expectations between 3.3 million and 3.5 million ounces [5]. Stock Performance - Newmont's shares have increased by 70.5% over the past six months, outperforming the Zacks Mining – Gold industry, which rose by 56.8%, largely due to a rally in gold prices [6]. Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Newmont's earnings in 2025 and 2026 indicates a year-over-year increase of 74.1% and 16.6%, respectively, with EPS estimates trending higher over the past 60 days [8]. Valuation Metrics - Newmont is currently trading at a forward 12-month earnings multiple of 14.2, which is approximately 4.6% higher than the industry average of 13.57X, and holds a Value Score of B [9]. Stock Ranking - Newmont stock is currently rated with a Zacks Rank 1 (Strong Buy) [11].