RE:RE:Some Positive Considerations for Q1/2024No doubt the 11,000 ounces will assist the 1st quarter of 2024, but most likely a timing issue.
With a cost of capital of 6% + it is important to realize the money asap.
The first quarter of 2024 will not look that great by the company`s own admission.
" Lower unit cost of gold produced in 2024, with 2024 AISC1 guidance of $1,475 to $1,600 per ounce sold. AISC in the first quarter is expected to be higher than the fourth quarter of 2023, decreasing significantly throughout the year as open pit mining transitions into ore at Haile and Macraes throughout the year."
Note that the final quarter of 2023 AISC was $1,658, so when they say higher than that, do not expect a good 1st quarter. ( although the 11,000 will help).
It does bode well for the other 3 quarters, if the company`s forecast can be relied on, and the gold price remains at these levels, and nothing jumps out of the woods.
As far as dropping the litigation, I suspect it had a lot more to do with economic reality.
All taxes can be deducted from the calculation per the new contract before the special 60% tax is applied. If you figure that in, with the continual litigation cost and the possibility you may not win, and the political cost, why bother. It would probably amount to a minimal difference, even if you won. Just a logical decision. based on the new situation. The company basically spells this out in their comments.