Barrick(GOLD) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Barrick reported strong operational and financial results for Q3 2025, achieving records in adjusted earnings per share and cash flow, with a 274% increase in free cash flow compared to Q2 [4][8] - The company ended the quarter with a net cash position, allowing for a 25% increase in the base dividend and a record cash return to shareholders [8][10] - Operating cash flow more than tripled from Q2, driven by higher gold prices, increased production volume, and lower unit costs per ounce, resulting in a 20% quarter-over-quarter increase in attributable EBITDA [8][9] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold production increased by 4% from Q2, primarily due to higher grades at Kibali and increased throughput at Cortez and Turquoise Ridge [6][11] - Copper production slightly declined due to a planned shutdown at Lumwana, but is expected to meet annual guidance [6][15] - North America's attributable EBITDA increased by 19% from Q2, with all sites reporting lower unit costs per ounce [11] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The gold price experienced a 5% increase, contributing to higher margins and a significant rise in free cash flow [6][8] - The company expects both gold and copper production to remain within their respective guidance ranges for the year, despite the impact of higher gold prices on cash costs [7][16] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focusing on improving operational performance and safety, particularly in its North American gold assets, which are seen as the most significant opportunity for growth [4][17] - Barrick plans to increase exploration efforts in North America, particularly at the Fourmile project, which is considered one of the most significant gold discoveries of the century [12][18] - The company aims to maintain a strong balance sheet while returning excess cash to shareholders through dividends and buybacks [9][10] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management emphasized the importance of safety and operational performance, committing to a thorough review of operations to ensure consistent delivery of value [5][16] - The company is optimistic about continued production growth in Q4, aligning with its 2025 production plan [6][16] - Management acknowledged the recent fatalities and is conducting a full investigation to enhance safety measures and culture within the organization [5][53] Other Important Information - The company has authorized a $500 million increase to its existing share repurchase program, reflecting confidence in its business [10] - Barrick's capital allocation priorities include maintaining a strong balance sheet, investing in growth, and returning excess cash to shareholders [9][10] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you provide a framework for the operational review at Nevada Gold Mines? - The operational review aims to stabilize and improve consistency in delivery, focusing on mining efficiencies and planned maintenance to avoid unexpected issues [20][21] Question: Will the operational review include a review of medium-term guidance? - The review will help ensure predictable outcomes and will inform the budget for the next year, but no major changes are expected at this stage [28][29] Question: What is the status of the asset sales in Mali? - The focus is currently on resolving the situation regarding personnel in Mali, with asset sales on hold until that is addressed [60] Question: What changes in corporate policies can be expected under the new leadership? - The strategy remains consistent, with a heightened focus on North America and Nevada as key growth areas [82]