Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Revenue increased by 7% for the six months ended December 31, 2024, primarily due to higher Rand gold prices and the inclusion of Relden operations [79] - Adjusted EBITDA for the six months was ZAR6.4 billion, maintaining stability for the third consecutive half-year [80] - Profit for the period was $1.3 billion compared to a loss of $45 million for the same period in 2023 [81] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - South African gold operations contributed just under ZAR6 billion in EBITDA for the year, a substantial increase from the prior period [45] - South African PGM operations saw a 16% decline in the PGM basket price year on year, leading to a nearly 60% decrease in EBITDA to ZAR7.5 billion for 2024 [48] - The recycling business contributed ZAR594 million to adjusted EBITDA, with a total revenue of ZAR14 billion for 2024 [24][60] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average PGM basket price declined by 21% to $988 per ounce, impacting U.S. operations significantly [54] - The South African gold operations experienced a 22% increase in prices, which positively influenced revenue [82] - The average zinc price for the year was USD 2,805 per tonne, significantly higher than the previous year's price [75] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on strategic differentiation and sustainability, emphasizing operational excellence and capital optimization [6][7] - The diversification into battery metals and recycling is a key part of the company's strategy to mitigate risks associated with traditional mining [17][24] - The company aims to enhance its position in Western markets, particularly through strategic metals in North America and Europe [25][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the gold operations' performance due to restructuring benefits and a sustained increase in gold prices [45] - The company acknowledged the challenges posed by declining PGM prices but indicated a positive outlook for future operations [12][15] - Management emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong balance sheet and liquidity to navigate the low PGM price environment [86] Other Important Information - The company has secured significant tax credits in North America, estimated at approximately $2.2 billion for 2023 and $1.6 billion for 2024 [25][26] - A new chrome management agreement with Glencore is expected to optimize value from byproducts and enhance operational synergies [50] - The company is progressing well with the Caliber project, with construction on track and an increase in headcount [66] Q&A Session Summary Question: What are the expectations for gold operations moving forward? - Management expects continued positive output from gold operations into 2025, driven by restructuring benefits and higher gold prices [45] Question: How is the company addressing the challenges in PGM operations? - The company is implementing cost management strategies and restructuring to improve efficiency and reduce costs in PGM operations [48][54] Question: What is the outlook for the recycling business? - The recycling segment is anticipated to grow, with a focus on maintaining access to critical feedstock and leveraging synergies across operations [60]