Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Yancoal achieved a record production of 10.4 million tonnes of attributable saleable coal in Q4 2025, contributing to an annual total of 38.6 million tonnes, also a record [4][5] - Cash operating costs were reported at AUD 93 per tonne, within the guidance range of AUD 89-AUD 97 per tonne [4][5] - The company’s cash balance increased by AUD 307 million over the quarter, reaching over AUD 2 billion with no debt [5][15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Total ROM coal production increased by 20% compared to Q3 2025, reaching 18.9 million tonnes, while saleable coal production rose by 11% to 13.6 million tonnes [8][9] - The attributable share of saleable coal was 10.4 million tonnes, which includes a 3.75% interest in the Moolarben Joint Venture acquired in October [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The average realized price for coal improved by 6% to AUD 148 per tonne, driven by a 6% increase in thermal coal prices and a 4% increase in metallurgical coal prices [5][13] - International coal market conditions were mixed, with Japan increasing coal imports by 16% while China’s annual imports fell by 18% [11][12] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Yancoal aims to maintain operational momentum into 2026, with guidance on production, cash operating costs, and capital expenditure to be provided in February 2026 [6] - The company emphasizes cost control and aims to deliver unit costs around the middle of the guidance range, reinforcing its position as a low-cost coal exporter [15][51] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed optimism about the operational performance and financial position, highlighting the importance of disciplined cost control and the ability to leverage improving coal prices [51] - The company remains focused on balancing cash flow generation with potential dividend considerations and growth opportunities [15][36] Other Important Information - The total recordable injury frequency rate improved to 6.14, below the industry average of 7.45, indicating a commitment to safety [8] - The company plans to process additional ROM coal that could not be converted to saleable coal in Q4 2025 during the first quarter of 2026 [32] Q&A Session Summary Question: How are current stockpiles and inventory levels looking? - Management confirmed that sales and production are back to normal and matched, indicating a strong quarter for both production and sales [19] Question: Any comments on the current royalty structure in New South Wales? - Management stated there have been no discussions regarding changes to coal royalties and are currently unaware of any revisions [20] Question: Can you comment on the production profile of Hunter Valley Operations? - Management noted a strong fourth quarter performance, with effective mitigation of wet weather impacts through prior capital investments [23] Question: What is the outlook for the coal market? - Management indicated a slight recovery in coal prices towards the end of Q4, with expectations for demand to pick up post-Chinese New Year [26] Question: What does the AUD 2 billion cash balance mean for dividends? - Management reiterated that the board will review the final position after the year-end to determine the capacity for dividend allocation, following a framework of 50% NPAT or free cash flow [35][36] Question: How should investors think about capital management given the free cash flow generation? - Management emphasized the importance of being cost-competitive and balancing free cash flow with growth opportunities and dividend considerations [39][40]
YANCOAL AUS(03668) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript