TRX Gold(TRX) - 2026 Q1 - Earnings Call Transcript
TRX GoldTRX Gold(US:TRX)2026-01-19 16:02

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported record quarterly production of just under 6,600 ounces for Q1 2026, a significant increase compared to the prior year and Q4 results [6][8] - Revenue for Q1 exceeded $25 million, with adjusted EBITDA over $13 million, demonstrating strong cash flow and margins [8][12] - The working capital ratio improved from 1.3 times to 1.7 times, with positive working capital of approximately $15 million [9][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is producing between 25,000 and 30,000 ounces in fiscal 2026, with Q1 being one of the lowest quarters expected [4][7] - Cash costs for Q1 were around $1,500 per ounce, within the guidance range of $1,400 to $1,600 per ounce [7][12] - The company has a ROM pad stockpile of over 22,000 ounces, averaging 1.2-1.3 grams per ton, which helps optimize mill feed [10] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The realized gold price in Q1 was $3,860 per ounce, which later increased to over $4,600 per ounce, indicating a strong gold price environment [8][12] - The company is positioned in the lowest quartile of the cash cost curve, with gross profits exceeding 50% [12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company plans to expand its plant over the next 18-24 months to increase production and fund underground development [3][4] - There is a focus on exploration, with a geophysics study completed and plans to drill approximately 40,000 to 60,000 meters this year [40][42] - The company is negotiating with the Tanzanian government to improve agreements and reduce investment risks [44][46] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the operational performance and the potential for increased production and profitability due to higher gold prices [26][42] - The company anticipates a steady descent in the mining project, with improved grade profiles expected in the coming quarters [32][37] - Management is optimistic about the exploration results and the potential for increased reserves and resources [40][42] Other Important Information - The company is investing in plant upgrades and expansion, utilizing free cash flow to enhance throughput and recovery rates [11][12] - The company has engaged marketing firms to attract high-net-worth investors and institutional interest [76][78] Q&A Session Summary Question: Potential bottlenecks during ramp-up and labor force impacts - Management indicated that labor costs are stable, with a slight increase in workforce expected but overall efficiency improvements anticipated [61] Question: Expectations for high-grade material mining - Management confirmed that head grades will increase with the installation of a thickener, allowing for better separation of higher-grade material [65] Question: Plant utilization rate increase and strip ratio plans - The increase in plant utilization from 88% to 90% is attributed to improved maintenance and spare parts management [68] - The strip ratio will fluctuate based on the mine plan and gold prices, with expectations of a lower strip ratio as stockpiles increase [70]