Barrick(GOLD) - 2025 Q4 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Barrick achieved record financial results in Q4 2025, with revenues increasing by 45% from Q3, driven by higher production and a 21% increase in realized gold prices [10] - Net earnings nearly doubled from the prior quarter, and the company reported record quarterly cash flow, free cash flow, earnings per share, and cash balance [10][11] - For the year, cash flow from operations reached $7.7 billion and free cash flow was $3.9 billion, up 71% and 194% year-over-year, respectively [11][12] - The company ended the year with a net cash position of $2 billion, indicating a strong balance sheet [12] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Gold production increased by 5% from Q3, with a full-year total of 3.26 million ounces, aligning with guidance [8][23] - Copper production rose by 13% from Q3, driven by higher throughput at Lumwana [8] - The operational review led to a restructuring of business units, enhancing operational efficiency [8] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The gold price increased by 21%, contributing to higher margins and cash flow [10][12] - The company anticipates gold production in 2026 to be between 2.9-3.25 million ounces, with a focus on ramping up production at Loulo-Gounkoto [23] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Barrick plans to proceed with an IPO of its North American gold assets, targeting completion by late 2026 to maximize shareholder value [5][26] - The company is focused on safety as its top priority for 2026, following operational achievements overshadowed by fatalities in the previous year [6][7] - The management team has been restructured to enhance operational experience and efficiency [18] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving production guidance for 2026, citing a strong start to the year and improved operational discipline [16][17] - The company is committed to maintaining a focus on high-quality assets and strategic growth, particularly in North America [33][103] Other Important Information - The board has authorized a new dividend policy, increasing the base dividend by 40% to $0.175 per quarter, with a target to pay out 50% of attributable free cash flow [13][14] - The company has successfully resolved disputes in Mali, regaining operational control and ramping up production [21][76] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you discuss the strategic rationale behind the IPO of NGM and PV? - Management believes a partial IPO will unlock more value than a full separation, as the North American assets are undervalued within Barrick [31][34] Question: What are the intended proceeds from the IPO? - The specifics of the use of proceeds will be determined as part of the preparation work for the IPO [36] Question: Can you provide an update on the Reko Diq financing? - Management is reviewing the security situation in Balochistan before proceeding with financing [40] Question: How has the mine plan review impacted guidance, particularly for Carlin? - The review has led to more realistic production targets based on actual performance, with a focus on achieving consistent delivery [44][46] Question: Is Veladero considered a non-core asset? - Veladero is not non-core and has been one of the top-performing assets in the last year [57] Question: What is the expected recovery rate at PV? - The target recovery rate is 84%, with ongoing efforts to optimize stockpile blending [62][64] Question: Will Barrick sell more gold assets in the future? - The focus remains on high-quality assets, and any dispositions will align with the strategic filter [103]