B2Gold(US:BTG)2025-11-06 17:00Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported GAAP earnings of $0.01 per share, impacted by non-cash derivative market adjustments, while adjusted earnings per share were $0.14 [7] - Revenue for Q3 was approximately $783 million, including $144 million from the delivery of over 66,000 ounces under gold prepay obligations [7][8] - Operating cash flows totaled $171 million in Q3, highlighting strong cash-generating potential [8] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Fekola, Masbate, and Otjikoto mines exceeded production expectations, resulting in lower than expected cash operating costs per ounce [2] - Goose Mine achieved commercial production, although production was impacted by a crushing capacity shortfall and delays in accessing higher-grade ore [2][3] - The company revised its 2025 gold production guidance for Goose Mine down to between 50,000 and 80,000 ounces due to these challenges [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned to benefit from a strong gold price environment, with an annual gold production target of approximately 1 million ounces [4] - Cash costs per ounce at Fekola were lower than expected, contributing to strong performance in Mali [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to leverage low-cost platforms and extend the life of the Otjikoto mine into the 2030s through the development of the Antelope Underground Deposit [3][13] - The company is focused on ramping up operations at Goose and maintaining strong performance across other operations [42] Management Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in continuing operations in Mali despite political challenges, citing strong government support and international backing [5][6] - The company expects to receive the regional mining permit for Fekola imminently, which will allow for further development [36] Other Important Information - The company has drawn down $200 million on its credit facility to manage working capital timing differences, with expectations to repay by year-end [8][37] - Capital expenditures for Q3 were higher than expected due to the capitalization of site general costs and commissioning costs [39] Q&A Session Summary Question: What grades are expected for Fekola Underground in 2026? - Management targets approximately 4.5 grams with a throughput of about 1,500 tons a day [17] Question: How is the development rate for Fekola Underground progressing? - Development is on or ahead of schedule with the contractor Byrnecut [18] Question: What are the key drivers of cost increases at Goose? - Costs for Q4 are expected to be higher due to lower production, but this is not indicative of future costs [25][26] Question: What caused the delay in accessing Umwelt? - The delay was due to a lack of equipment parts and operators, which has now been resolved [27] Question: What is the potential magnitude of solutions for crushing optimization at Goose? - A third-party consultant is expected to deliver a report in December, with solutions anticipated to be small in magnitude compared to fixing the throughput [31][32] Question: What is the reason for the delays in obtaining regional permits in Mali? - Delays are attributed to bureaucratic processes, but approval is expected imminently [35]