Coeur Mining(US:CDE)2025-10-30 16:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record results for the second consecutive quarter, with cash balance expected to exceed $500 million by year-end, placing the company in a net cash position heading into 2026 [2][4] - Full year EBITDA is now expected to exceed $1 billion, and free cash flow is projected to top $550 million, both higher than prior estimates [2][4] - Metal sales increased by 15% to $555 million during the quarter, driven by a higher number of ounces sold and a 15% increase in silver prices [17] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Las Chispas operation generated $66 million in free cash flow, with silver production increasing to 1.6 million ounces and gold production to 17,000 ounces [9][10] - Palmarejo delivered $47 million in free cash flow, with strong recoveries and mill throughput reaching the highest levels in six quarters [10][14] - Rochester's gold and silver production increased by 3% and 13% respectively compared to the second quarter, resulting in free cash flow of $30 million [11] - Kensington achieved free cash flow of $31 million, its highest quarterly cash flow in over six years [13][14] - Wharf's gold production increased by 16% to 28,000 ounces, leading to free cash flow of $54 million [14] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company noted a strong performance in the North American market, benefiting from record-setting metals prices [14][17] - The average cash cost per ounce for gold and silver was reported at $1,215 and $14.95 respectively, continuing a positive trend compared to Q3 2024 [9] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on maintaining a balanced portfolio of North American assets and is evaluating capital allocation priorities, including share repurchase programs [6][22] - The integration of Las Chispas is complete, and the company is looking to leverage its strong cash flow position for future growth opportunities [10][36] - The company is not currently focused on development stage investments but is actively monitoring opportunities that fit its criteria [36] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism for a strong finish to the year and a record-breaking year in 2026, driven by operational improvements and favorable market conditions [4][22] - The company anticipates a material step up in production from 2025 to 2026, with expectations for increased throughput and efficiency at operations [33] Other Important Information - The company recorded a one-time $162 million non-cash tax benefit due to U.S. net operating losses, reflecting strong performance over the past three years [19] - The company has repaid over $228 million in debt during 2025, achieving a net debt ratio of 0.1 times [18] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is needed to get the Rochester operation up to full capacity? - Management discussed recent modifications to improve efficiency and productivity, indicating that unplanned downtime was a temporary setback [26][28] Question: How does the company view growth opportunities in the market? - Management stated that they are focused on internal priorities but are always evaluating opportunities that align with their strategic goals [36] Question: What should be expected regarding the tax rate for next year? - The effective tax rate is expected to change to around 24% due to the utilization of net operating losses, which is a significant shift from previous years [44] Question: Was there a drop in grade at Palmarejo and Las Chispas? - Management clarified that the drop in grade was related to the sequencing of ore processed and the decision to run more tonnes through the mill [48] Question: What are the expectations for unit costs and inflation pressures? - Management indicated that they are experiencing a favorable cost environment with flat input costs, despite some royalty pressures [53][55]