CIBC UpdateCIBC Research Analyst: Alex Hunchak, P.Geo
March 30, 2021
Flash Research MARATHON GOLD CORPORATION
First Look: Valentine Gold Feasibility Study Features Modest Cost Increases But Largely In Line With Our Assumptions Summary:
Marathon Gold reported results from a Feasibility Study (FS) for its Valentine Gold Project, featuring an after-tax $600M NPV5% and IRR of 32% at a US$1,500/oz gold price. Despite a 12% increase in initial capex estimate and a 13% increase in life-of-mine (LOM) AISC versus the company’s 2020 Pre-feasibility Study (PFS), the results compare well to our more conservatively modeled assumptions. Marathon continues to expect construction to commence in January 2022, following the completion of the EA process in H2/21, and the project could deliver first gold by end-2023. Valentine Gold continues to represent a solid mid-tier gold project with a relatively short path to first production and significant M&A appeal for a gold producer looking to add Canadian ounces to its portfolio.
Target Price: No change. Held at $4.00.