Harmony(HMY)2024-09-05 14:54Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Group revenue increased by 25% to ZAR 61 billion, driven by higher production and gold prices [27] - Net profit rose by 78% to ZAR 8.7 billion, with EBITDA increasing by 54% to just under ZAR 19 billion [27][28] - Headline earnings per share increased by 132% to 1,852 South African cents or 681 million, achieving a margin of 22% [8][22] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold production increased by 6% to 1.56 million ounces, exceeding revised guidance [7] - Underground recovery grades improved by 6% to 6.11 grams per tonne [8] - Silver production rose by 39% to a record 3.7 million ounces, generating revenue of ZAR 1.7 billion [21] - Uranium production increased by 13% to 590,000 pounds, generating revenue of just under ZAR 900 million [21] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - 96% of revenue is from gold, with byproducts (silver and uranium) contributing 3% and 1% respectively [20] - The company expects approximately 20% of future production to come from copper within the next 10 years, primarily from the Wafi-Golpu and Eva Copper projects [3][10] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Harmony's strategy focuses on responsible stewardship, operational excellence, cash certainty, and effective capital allocation [3] - Major capital is allocated towards high-quality assets like Moab Khotsong and Mponeng, as well as projects that lower risk profiles [4][10] - The company aims to grow reserves and improve margins through investments in existing assets and new projects [5][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving production targets of 1.4 to 1.5 million ounces in FY '25, with underground recovery grades expected above 5.8 grams per tonne [33] - The company is optimistic about maintaining a strong balance sheet and cash flow, with a net cash position of ZAR 2.9 billion [28][31] - Management emphasized the importance of safety and operational excellence, aiming for zero loss of life [19][20] Other Important Information - Harmony has been included in the FTSE4Good Index for the 7th consecutive year, reflecting its commitment to sustainability [9] - The company is progressing with the feasibility study for the Eva Copper project, which is expected to produce between 50,000 and 60,000 tonnes of copper per annum [13] - Total capital expenditure for FY '25 is expected to increase to ZAR 10.8 billion, with a focus on high-grade underground projects [14][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Thoughts on underground operations and grade improvements - Management attributed grade improvements to acquiring high-grade assets in Mponeng and Moab Khotsong, emphasizing operational excellence and quality control [36][38] Question: FY '25 guidance and potential for better performance - Management expressed optimism about beating guidance, citing strong momentum in operations and a conservative planning approach [40][41] Question: Drivers for increased CapEx in FY '25 and FY '26 - Management highlighted the need for sustaining capital due to better performance, development requirements, and ongoing IT upgrades as key drivers for increased CapEx [42][43][47] Question: Succession plan and intentions for cash reserves - Management confirmed that a succession plan is in place, with a focus on maintaining a balanced capital allocation framework while pursuing growth opportunities [50][53]