B2Gold(US:BTG)2026-02-19 17:02Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - B2Gold achieved record revenue of $3 billion for the year 2025, with Q4 revenues recorded at $1.05 billion [2][4] - GAAP earnings were reported at $0.13 per share, with adjusted earnings at $0.11 per share, impacted by the timing of shipments at Fekola [4] - Operating cash flows for 2025 totaled $896 million, including $286 million in Q4, highlighting strong cash generation potential [5] - Cash and cash equivalents stood at $380 million at the end of 2025, with a drawn amount of $150 million on the revolver [5] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company produced approximately 980,000 ounces of gold in 2025, near the midpoint of guidance, with expectations for 2026 production between 820,000 and 970,000 ounces [9][10] - Fekola produced over 20,000 ounces from underground operations in 2025, with expectations for consistent production throughout 2026 [2][11] - Masbate operations achieved a record for the second consecutive year, maintaining a world-class safety track record [13] - Otjikoto had strong production in 2025 but is expected to see lower production in 2026 due to the transition to underground mining [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company is positioned to take advantage of a strong gold price environment, with growth capital spending at Goose now complete [3] - Fekola Regional is expected to contribute between 60,000 and 80,000 ounces in 2026, with production ramping up in the second half of the year [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - B2Gold is focused on extending mine lives and returning capital to shareholders, with share repurchases initiated under the NCIB [6] - The company announced an approved construction decision on the Antelope underground deposit, which could increase Otjikoto gold production into the 2030s [3] - The company is studying improvements to the crushing circuit at Goose to increase capacity and operational efficiency [12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in receiving the Fekola Regional exploitation permit in Q1 2026, citing ongoing dialogue with the government [20] - The company anticipates strong cash flow years ahead, with expectations of significant shareholder value addition [6][7] - Management noted that all operations have performed above expectations so far in 2026, despite some operational challenges [10] Other Important Information - The company repurchased 2 million shares for about $10 million in 2025 and an additional 5 million shares for approximately $24 million post-year-end [6] - Initial modifications to improve the crushing circuit at Goose are scheduled for implementation in the second half of 2026 [12] Q&A Session Summary Question: Update on Fekola Regional permit status - Management expressed confidence in receiving the permit soon, citing endorsements from key government officials and ongoing dialogue [19][20] Question: Details on the permanent crusher solution at Goose - The study by FLSmidth has been completed and is under review, with final answers expected by April [21] Question: Clarification on throughput and production capacity - Management explained that while the system can run at 4,000 tons per day, maintaining that level consistently is challenging due to design factors [26][27] Question: Production expectations for Otjikoto and Antelope - Management confirmed that 2027 and 2028 will be build-up years, with production ramping up in 2029 [29] Question: AISC guidance at Goose - Management indicated that AISC is expected to step down significantly once the new crushing circuit is operational [39]