Buenaventura(US:BVN)2021-04-30 19:05Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - EBITDA from direct operations reached $38.2 million in Q1 2021 compared to negative $6.7 million in Q1 2020 [8] - Adjusted EBITDA including associated companies was $182.9 million in Q1 2021, up from $30.1 million in Q1 2020 [8] - Net income for Q1 2021 was $16.4 million, a significant recovery from a net loss of $68.6 million in the same period last year [8] - Total revenues in Q1 2021 were $185.9 million, reflecting a 62% increase compared to Q1 2020 [10] - Free cash flow in Q1 2021 was $8.1 million, down from $22.3 million in Q1 2020 [11] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total gold attributable production in Q1 2021 was 62,900 ounces, a 29% decrease from the previous year, primarily due to lower production at Yanacocha [12] - Silver attributable production was 3.5 million ounces, consistent with the previous year [12] - Zinc production decreased by 27% to 9,300 metric tons, mainly due to a 47% drop at Uchucchacua [13] - Lead production was 4,400 metric tons, down 37% compared to Q1 2020 [13] - Copper production remained stable at 24,000 metric tons, in line with Q1 2020 [13] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - All-in sustaining costs for direct operations decreased by 21% to $1,631 per ounce of gold in Q1 2021 [14] - Cost applicable to sales for gold was $1,295 per ounce, a 14% decrease year-over-year [14] - For silver, the cost was $19.39 per ounce, a 17% increase compared to the previous year [14] - Lead costs were $1,321 per metric ton, down 6%, while copper costs increased by 8% to $5,594 per metric ton [14] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on advancing its project pipeline, including San Gabriel and Trapiche, with plans to obtain necessary permits and engage with local communities [15][16] - The company is evaluating asset sales to improve liquidity and reduce debt ratios while also considering financing options for major projects like Yanacocha Sulfides [21][30] - The management is optimistic about the political situation in Peru, emphasizing the need for laws that attract investment [22][25] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management acknowledged the uncertainty due to the COVID-19 pandemic and its potential impact on operations and financial results [5] - The political landscape in Peru is complex, with no clear majority in Congress, which may affect future mining laws and taxation [23][25] - The company remains committed to sustainability and community engagement despite political challenges [22] Other Important Information - The company reported a cash position of $225.4 million for Q1 2021 [9] - Capital expenditures for Q1 2021 were $13.1 million, an increase from $10.7 million in Q1 2020 [9] Q&A Session Summary Question: Details on the $550 million debt or bond approved by the Board - Management confirmed that the debt is related to obligations and is seeking shareholder approval to address the current situation [20] Question: CapEx outlook and financing for Yanacocha Sulfide project - Management indicated no significant changes in CapEx guidance and that financing discussions for the Yanacocha project are ongoing [21] Question: Comments on the political situation in Peru - Management expressed confidence that voters will favor development-oriented policies despite the current political uncertainty [22] Question: Financing plans and asset sales - Management is evaluating asset sales to improve liquidity and is focused on paying off the SUNAT controversy with the planned debt [27] Question: Expected dividend from Cerro Verde - Management expects to receive a dividend of approximately $39 million from Cerro Verde, which could be used for project financing [36]