/NOT FOR DISSEMINATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES AND NOT FOR
DISTRIBUTION TO US NEWSWIRE SERVICES/
(All figures in US Dollars unless otherwise stated)
MELBOURNE, April 29, 2014 /CNW/ - OceanaGold Corporation (TSX: OGC) (ASX: OGC) (NZX: OGC) (the "Company") today released its first quarter 2014 financial and
operating results for the quarter ending March 31, 2014. Details of
the consolidated financial statements and the Management Discussion and
Analysis ("MDA") are available on the Company's website at www.oceanagold.com
Key Highlights
-
Record quarterly revenue of $170.4 million, EBITDA of $101.0 million and
net profit of $58.9 million.
-
Strengthened balance sheet through net repayment of borrowings of $20
million and increased cash and available facilities to $92.1 million
including $42.1 million in cash.
-
Gold production of 86,568 ounces, including record quarterly gold
production of 30,480 ounces from Didipio.
-
Copper production of 6,479 tonnes with copper sales of 7,752 tonnes.
-
Company cash costs of $170 per ounce and All-In Sustaining Costs of $450
per ounce both net of by-product credits.
-
Over 10 million man hours worked without a lost time injury at the
Didipio operation.
The Company reported record quarterly revenue of $170.4 million, EBITDA
of $101.0 million and net profit of $58.9 million on sales of 94,050
ounces of gold and 7,752 tonnes of copper for the first quarter of
2014. As a result, the Company has increased its liquidity position
through cash and available credit facilities to approximately $92
million including $42 million in cash after a net repayment of
borrowings of $20 million.
For the first quarter of 2014, the Company's overall cash costs were
$170 per ounce and All-In-Sustaining Costs ("AISC") were $450 per ounce
both net of by-product credits. Didipio's cash costs on a co-product
basis were $483 per ounce on 78,619 gold equivalent ounces sold for the
first quarter, while its co-product AISC was $556 per gold equivalent
ounce sold. For the first quarter, New Zealand's cash costs were $584
per ounce on 57,786 ounces of gold sold while its AISC was $941 per
ounce sold.
The Didipio operations in the Philippines reported record quarterly gold
production of 30,480 ounces along with copper production of 6,479
tonnes. In the first quarter, the Company made four shipments of
copper-gold concentrate totalling 30,152 dry metric tonnes to markets
in Asia. Debottlenecking of the process plant to achieve the planned
3.5 Mtpa throughput rate is advancing well and on schedule for
completion by the end of the year. As at the end of the first quarter,
the Didipio operation recorded over 10 million man hours worked without
a lost time injury.
Also in the Philippines, the Company received the support and official
consent from the National Commission of Indigenous Peoples ("NCIP") to
conduct exploration activities at the Mayag tenement in northern
Mindanao. This was a major milestone for the Company as it demonstrated
the successful completion of its free and prior informed consent
process with the local indigenous groups and brings the Company closer
to receiving exploration permits for its Mayag tenement.
In New Zealand, gold production for the first quarter was 56,088 ounces
which was expected and lower than the previous quarter on account of a
lower mill feed and processing lower grade ore. The re-optimisation of
the Macraes mine plan in early 2014 has resulted in mining less
material than in previous quarters which has significantly lowered
operating costs and improved margins in the lower gold price
environment.
Subsequent to the quarter end on April 19 2014, a pit wall failure at
the Macraes open pit resulted in a temporary suspension of mining
operations to reinstate access to the underground mine and to develop a
new mine plan for the open pit. The process plant remained operational
and continued to operate uninterrupted drawing on stockpile ore
reserves. On April 24 2014, production from the underground
recommenced. The Company does not expect an impact to its 2014
production guidance for its New Zealand operations.
Mick Wilkes, Managing Director and CEO commented on the first quarter
2014 results, "We had another strong quarter of production and
financial results with record quarterly revenue, EBITDA and net
earnings on the back of higher sales and lower operating costs. We
continued to strengthen our balance sheet through the repayment of $20
million of debt and build-up of our treasury." He went on to say, "The
Didipio process plant is well on track to increase throughput rates to
3.5 Mtpa by the end of the year and will continue generating strong
free cash flows."
Mr. Wilkes added, "For the remainder of the year, we will continue to
further strengthen the balance sheet by repaying debt to enhance
shareholder value and position the Company for new value-add
opportunities. We remain steadfast on the health and safety of our
employees as demonstrated by the 10 million plus man hours worked
without a lost time injury at Didipio and we will continue to work
closely with all of our stakeholders to deliver positive results in a
safe and sustainable manner."
Conference Call and Webcast
The Company will host a conference call / webcast to discuss its first
quarter 2014 financial and operating results. The call will take place
at 7:30am on Wednesday 30 April (Melbourne, Australia time) / 5.30pm on
Tuesday 29 April 2014 (Toronto, Canada time).
Webcast Participants
To register, please copy and paste the link below into your browser:
http://event.on24.com/r.htm?e=773557&s=1&k=1363F826993BA115C8E8A3C626E5D674
Teleconference Participants (required for those who wish to ask
questions)
Local (toll free) dial in numbers are:
Australia: 1 800 157 854
New Zealand: 0 800 441 025
Canada & North America: 1 888 390 0546
All other countries (toll): + 1 416 764 8688
Playback of Webcast
If you are unable to attend the call, a recording will be available for
viewing on the company's website from 11:30am on Wednesday 30 April
(Melbourne, Australia time) / 9.30pm on Tuesday 29 April (Toronto,
Canada time).
About OceanaGold
OceanaGold Corporation is a significant multinational gold producer with
mines located on the South Island of New Zealand and in the
Philippines. The Company's assets encompass New Zealand's largest gold
mining operation at the Macraes goldfield in Otago which is made up of
the Macraes Open Pit and the Frasers Underground mines. Additionally,
on the west coast of the South Island, the Company operates the Reefton
Open Pit mine. OceanaGold's Didipio Mine in northern Luzon, Philippines
commenced commercial production on 1 April 2013 and is expected to
produce 100,000 ounces of gold and 14,000 tonnes of copper per year on
average over the next 15 years. In 2014, the Company expects to produce
275,000 to 305,000 ounces of gold from the combined New Zealand and
Philippine operations and 21,000 to 24,000 tonnes of copper from the
Philippine operations.
OceanaGold is listed on the Toronto, Australian and New Zealand stock
exchanges under the symbol OGC.
Cautionary Statement for Public Release
Certain information contained in this public release, including any
information relating to the Company's future financial or operating
performance may be deemed "forward-looking" within the meaning of
applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information
relate to future performance and reflect the Company's expectations
regarding the future growth, results of operations, business prospects
and opportunities of OceanaGold Corporation and its related
subsidiaries. Any statements that express or involve discussions with
respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections,
objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not
always, using words or phrases such as "expects" or "does not expect",
"is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans",
"estimates" or "intends", or stating that certain actions, events or
results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or
be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be
forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements such as
production forecasts are subject to a variety of risks and
uncertainties which could cause actual events, performance,
achievements or results to differ materially from those expressed in
the forward-looking statements. They include, among others, the
accuracy of mineral reserve and resource estimates and related
assumptions, inherent operating risks and those risk factors identified
in the Company's most recent Annual Information Form prepared and filed
with securities regulators which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com under the Company's name. There are no assurances the Company can
fulfil forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are
only predictions based on current information available to management
as of the date that such predictions are made; actual events or results
may differ materially as a result of risks facing the Company, some of
which are beyond the Company's control. Some of these risks and
uncertainties include: general economic and market factors (including
changes in global, national or regional financial credit, currency or
securities markets); changes or developments in global, national or
regional political conditions (including any act of terrorism or war);
changes in laws (including tax laws) and changes in GAAP or regulatory
accounting requirements; fluctuations in the price of gold; inability
to obtain required consents, permits or approvals; and other risk
factors as outlines in the Company's annual and interim filings.
Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not
exhaustive. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking
information contained in this press release is based on reasonable
assumptions, readers cannot be assured that actual outcomes or results
will be consistent with such statements. Accordingly, readers should
not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information.
The Company expressly disclaims any intention or obligation to update
or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new
information, events or otherwise, except as required by applicable
securities laws. All forward looking information contained in this
public release is qualified by this Cautionary Statement. The
information contained in this release is not investment or financial
product advice.
NOT FOR DISSEMINATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES AND NOT FOR
DISTRIBUTION TO US NEWSWIRE SERVICES.
First Quarter 2014 Results
April 29, 2014
www.oceanagold.com
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION IN MANAGEMENT
DISCUSSION & ANALYSIS
Management Discussion and Analysis Report for the First Quarter ended
March 31, 2014
This Management Discussion & Analysis contains "forward-looking
statements and information" within the meaning of applicable securities
laws which may include, but is not limited to, statements with respect
to the future financial and operating performance of the Company, its
subsidiaries and affiliated companies, its mining projects, the future
price of gold, the estimation of mineral reserves and mineral
resources, the realisation of mineral reserve and resource estimates,
costs of production, estimates of initial capital, sustaining capital,
operating and exploration expenditures, costs and timing of the
development of new deposits, costs and timing of the development of new
mines, costs and timing of future exploration and drilling programs,
timing of filing of updated technical information, anticipated
production amounts, requirements for additional capital, governmental
regulation of mining operations and exploration operations, timing and
receipt of approvals, consents and permits under applicable mineral
legislation, environmental risks, title disputes or claims, limitations
of insurance coverage and the timing and possible outcome of pending
litigation and regulatory matters. Often, but not always,
forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use
of words such as "may", "plans", "expects", "projects", "is expected",
"budget", "scheduled", "potential", "estimates", "forecasts",
"intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or
variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases,
or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions,
events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will"
be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements and
information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other
factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements
of the Company and/or its subsidiaries and/or its affiliated companies
to be materially different from any future results, performance or
achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements.
Such factors include, among others, future prices of gold; general
business, economic and market factors (including changes in global,
national or regional financial, credit, currency or securities
markets), changes or developments in global, national or regional
political and social conditions; changes in laws (including tax laws)
and changes in GAAP or regulatory accounting requirements; the actual
results of current production, development and/or exploration
activities; conclusions of economic evaluations and studies;
fluctuations in the value of the United States dollar relative to the
Canadian dollar, the Australian dollar, the Philippines Peso or the New
Zealand dollar; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be
refined; possible variations of ore grade or recovery rates; failure of
plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; accidents,
labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; political
instability or insurrection or war; labour force availability and
turnover; adverse judicial decision, delays in obtaining financing or
governmental approvals or in the completion of development or
construction activities or in the commencement of operations; as well
as those factors discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors"
contained in the Company's Annual Information Form in respect of its
fiscal year-ended December 31, 2013, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com under the Company's name. Although the Company has attempted to
identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or
results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking
statements and information, there may be other factors that cause
actual results, performance, achievements or events to differ from
those anticipated, estimated or intended. Also, many of the factors are
outside or beyond the control of the Company, its officers, employees,
agents or associates. Forward-looking statements and information
contained herein are made as of the date of this Management Discussion
& Analysis and, subject to applicable securities laws, the Company
disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements and
information, whether as a result of new information, future events or
results or otherwise. There can be no assurance that forward-looking
statements and information will prove to be accurate, as actual results
and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in
such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance
on forward-looking statements and information due to the inherent
uncertainty therein. All forward-looking statements and information
made herein are qualified by this cautionary statement. This Management
Discussion & Analysis may use the terms "Measured", "Indicated" and
"Inferred" Resources. U.S. investors are advised that while such terms
are recognised and required by Canadian regulations, the Securities and
Exchange Commission does not recognise them. "Inferred Resources" have
a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to their
economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any
part of an Inferred Resources will ever be upgraded to a higher
category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Resources may not
form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies. U.S. investors
are cautioned not to assume that all or any part of Measured or
Indicated Resources will ever be converted into reserves. U.S.
investors are also cautioned not to assume that all or any part of an
Inferred Resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable. This
document does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in the
United States or to any person that is, or is acting for the account or
benefit of, any U.S. person (as defined in Regulation S under the
United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities
Act")) ("U.S. Person"), or in any other jurisdiction in which such an
offer would be unlawful.
Technical Disclosure
The Mineral Resources for Didipio were prepared by, or under the
supervision of, J. G. Moore, whilst the Mineral Resources for Macraes
and Reefton were prepared by S. Doyle. The Mineral Reserves for Didipio
were prepared under the supervision of R.Corbett, while the Mineral
Reserves for Macraes and Reefton were prepared by, or under the
supervision of, K Madambi. C. Bautista is Exploration Manager for the
Philippines. S. Doyle, K. Madambi, and J. G. Moore are Members and
Chartered professionals with the Australasian Institute of Mining and
Metallurgy and each is a "qualified person" for the purposes of NI
43-101. R. Corbett is a Registered Professional Engineer (Ontario) and
is a "qualified person" for the purposes of NI 43-101. C. Bautista is a
member of the AIG and is a "qualified person" for the purposes of NI
43-101. Messrs Moore, Doyle, Corbett, Madambi and Bautista have
sufficient experience, which is relevant to the style of mineralisation
and type of deposits under consideration, and to the activities which
they are undertaking, to qualify as Competent Persons as defined in the
2012 Edition of the "Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration
Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves" ("JORC Code").
The resource estimates for the El Dorado Project were prepared by Mr.
Steven Ristorcelli, C.P.G., of Mine Development Associates, Reno,
Nevada (who is an independent Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101)
and conforms to current CIM Standards on Mineral Resources and
Reserves.
For further scientific and technical information (including disclosure
regarding mineral resources and mineral reserves) relating to the
Reefton Project, the Macraes Project and the Didipio Project please
refer to the NI 43-101 compliant technical reports available at
sedar.com under the Company's name. For further scientific and
technical information (including disclosure regarding mineral resources
and mineral reserves) relating to the El Salvador Project please refer
to the reports publicly available on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) prepared for Pacific Rim.
HIGHLIGHTS
-
Record quarterly revenue of $170.4 million, EBITDA1 of $101.0 million and net profit of $58.9 million.
-
Strengthened balance sheet through net repayment of borrowings of $20
million and increased liquidity from cash and available facilities to
$92.1 million including $42.1 million in cash.
-
Gold production of 86,568 ounces, including a record quarterly gold
production from Didipio of 30,480 ounces.
-
Copper production of 6,479 tonnes with copper sales of 7,752 tonnes.
-
Cash costs1 of $170 per ounce and All-in Sustaining Costs1 of $450 per ounce both net of by-product credits.
-
Over 10 million man hours worked without a Lost Time Injury at the
Didipio operation.
-
Received the strong support and official consent from the National
Commission of Indigenous Peoples to conduct exploration activities at
the Mayag tenement in the Philippines.
-
Awarded the Gold Award for Women Empowerment during the Sixth Annual
Global Corporate Social Responsibility Summit and Awards ceremony.
All statistics are compared to the corresponding 2013 period unless
otherwise stated.
OceanaGold has adopted USD as its presentation currency and all numbers
in this document are expressed in USD unless otherwise stated.
-
Cash costs, All-In Sustaining Costs and EBITDA (earnings before
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation, excluding gain/(loss)
on undesignated hedges) are non GAAP measures. Refer to page 19 for
explanation of non GAAP measures.
OVERVIEW
Production and Costs Results
The Company reported recorded revenue of $170.4 million, EBITDA of
$101.0 million and net profit of $58.9 million in the first quarter of
2014.
During the quarter, the Company produced 86,568 ounces of gold, a 25%
decrease from the previous quarter on account of lower production from
the New Zealand operations, partly offset by record quarterly gold
production from Didipio. First quarter copper production at Didipio was
6,479 tonnes.
The total Company cash costs net of by-product credits for the first
quarter were $170 per ounce on 94,050 ounces of gold sold. The decrease
in cash costs from the previous quarter was due mainly to higher gold
and copper sales from Didipio and lower operating costs in New Zealand,
partly offset by lower gold sales from New Zealand and a stronger New
Zealand dollar. The Company's All-In Sustaining Costs ("AISC") for the
quarter was $450 per ounce sold net of by-product credits.
On a co-product basis, the Company's cash costs for the first quarter
were $524 per ounce on 136,907 gold equivalent ounces sold.
The Company's first quarter average gold price received was $1,311 per
ounce compared to $1,262 per ounce received in the fourth quarter of
2013. The average copper price received for the quarter was $6,939 per
tonne versus $7,291 per tonne in the previous quarter.
The cash balance at the end of the quarter was $42.1 million compared to
$24.8 million at the end of the fourth quarter in 2013. The net
increase in cash was a result of higher sales from Didipio and lower
operating costs in New Zealand and financing costs, partly offset by
net repayment of borrowings of $20 million.
Production & Cost Guidance
In 2014, the Company is expecting to produce 275,000 to 305,000 ounces
of gold at cash costs of $400 to $450 per ounce net of by-product
credits and AISC of $750 to $850 per ounce net of by-product credits.
Copper production from Didipio is expected to be between 21,000 to
24,000 tonnes of copper in concentrate. Guidance remains unchanged. See
Table 2 for full guidance.
Looking ahead at Didipio, the operation will be mining and processing
lower gold grades and mining less ore as a result of increased
pre-stripping from Stage 4 of the pit. In the second quarter, there is
a shutdown of the process plant for planned maintenance. The Company
expects to mine more ore and at higher gold grades at the end of the
second quarter through to the end of the year. Throughput rates are
also expected to steadily increase during the year through
debottlenecking to achieve the planned 3.5 Mtpa rate by the end of the
year.
Looking ahead at Reefton, the Company expects to mine and process higher
grades beginning in early third quarter. Additionally, the final
cutback at Reefton will be completed early in the third quarter.
Subsequent to the quarter end at Macraes on April 19, a pit wall failure
due to heavy rain resulted in a temporary suspension of mining
activities at the open pit and underground. There were no injuries and
production was unaffected as stockpile ore was fed through the mill.
Production from the underground resumed on April 24 and the Company is
currently developing a new mine plan for the open pit. The Company
expects minimal impact from this event as the current mine plan
included mining less ore and at lower grades with an increasing
proportion of low grade stockpile ore being processed.
Overall, the Company expects to achieve its production guidance for
2014.
Table 1 - Q1 2014 Production and Cost Results Summary
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Didipio
|
|
|
New Zealand
|
|
|
Group
|
Gold Produced
|
|
|
ounces
|
|
|
30,480
|
|
|
56,088
|
|
|
86,568
|
Copper Produced
|
|
|
tonnes
|
|
|
6,479
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
6,479
|
Gold Sales
|
|
|
ounces
|
|
|
36,264
|
|
|
57,786
|
|
|
94,050
|
Copper Sales
|
|
|
tonnes
|
|
|
7,752
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
7,752
|
Average Gold Price Received
|
|
|
$ per ounce
|
|
|
1,317
|
|
|
1,307
|
|
|
1,311
|
Average Copper Price Received
|
|
|
$ per tonne
|
|
|
6,939
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
6,939
|
Cash Costs
|
|
|
$ per ounce
|
|
|
(490)1
|
|
|
584
|
|
|
1701
|
All-In Sustaining Costs2
|
|
|
$ per ounce
|
|
|
(332)1
|
|
|
941
|
|
|
4501
|
-
Net of by-product credits
-
Based on the World Gold Council methodology, expansionary and growth
capital expenditures are excluded from the AISC
Table 2 - 2014 Production and Cost Guidance
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Didipio
|
|
|
New Zealand
|
|
|
Group
|
Gold Production
|
|
|
ounces
|
|
|
85,000 - 95,000
|
|
|
190,000 - 210,000
|
|
|
275,000 - 305,000
|
Copper Production
|
|
|
tonnes
|
|
|
21,000 - 24,000
|
|
|
-
|
|
|
21,000 - 24,000
|
Cash Costs
|
|
|
$ per ounce
|
|
|
($725) - ($650)1
|
|
|
$840 - $9252
|
|
|
$400 - $4501,2
|
All-In Sustaining Costs3
|
|
|
$ per ounce
|
|
|
($240) - ($210)1
|
|
|
$1,170 - $1,2902
|
|
|
$750 - $8501,2
|
-
Net of copper by-product credits at $3.20/lb copper
-
NZD/USD $0.80 exchange rate
-
Based on the World Gold Council methodology, expansionary and growth
capital expenditures are excluded from the AISC
Philippines Overview
First quarter production at Didipio was 30,480 ounces of gold and 6,479
tonnes of copper. Gold production was higher than in the previous
quarter due to higher grades processed and better recoveries while
copper production was lower on account of lower copper grades
processed. First quarter gold equivalent production was 64,616 ounces.
First quarter cash costs, net of by-product credits at Didipio were
negative ($490) per ounce on sales of 36,264 ounces gold and 7,752
tonnes copper. Didipio's co-product cash costs were $483 per ounce for
the quarter on 78,619 gold equivalent ounces sold. Didipio's AISC on a
co-product basis was $556 per gold equivalent ounces sold.
The total material mined in the first quarter of 2014 was 6.1 million
tonnes including 1.7 million tonnes of ore, most of which was
stockpiled. During the quarter, the operation completed mining Stage 2
of the open pit and continued to provide competent waste rock for the
Tailings Storage Facility (TSF) lift.
Mill feed in the first quarter was 750,626 tonnes of ore grading 1.40
g/t gold and 0.90% copper. Gold recovery for the first quarter was
90.2%, higher than the previous quarter due to higher gold grades
processed and better flotation and gravity recoveries. Copper recovery
was 95.4%, similar to the previous quarter.
In the second quarter, the focus of mining operations will be on mining
Stage 3 and pre-stripping from Stage 4 of the pit. The operation
continues to focus on increasing productivity and optimisation to
further reduce costs. Didipio is on track to achieve its production and
cost guidance for the year.
New Zealand Overview
In New Zealand, combined production for the first quarter was 56,088
ounces of gold, which was lower than in the fourth quarter of 2013 due
mainly to lower grades processed and lower mill feed. This result was
expected as changes to the Macraes mine plan early in 2014 included
mining less waste and ore and processing lower grades.
The first quarter cash costs at the New Zealand operations were $584 per
ounce on 57,786 ounces of gold sold. Cash costs were higher than the
previous quarter due mainly to lower sales and a stronger New Zealand
dollar but partly offset by lower operating costs as a result of the
changes that had been made to mine plans at Macraes early in the year
and at Reefton in the June 2013. New Zealand's AISC for the first
quarter was $941 per ounce sold.
The total material mined at the New Zealand operations in the first
quarter was 9.4 million tonnes, a 37% decrease from the previous
quarter due mainly to less waste and ore mined at Macraes and less ore
mined at Reefton.
Mill feed in New Zealand was 1.7 million tonnes for the first quarter,
which was lower than in the previous quarter. For a period of three
weeks in early March, throughput rates at Macraes were reduced due to
mechanical repairs made to a mill motor that had been damaged during a
weather event. These repairs were completed prior to the end of the
first quarter.
Mill feed grade was 1.23 g/t for the first quarter, lower than in the
previous quarter due to lower grades mined at Macraes and Reefton and
to an increase in low grade stockpiles processed at Macraes. The
overall recovery for the New Zealand operations was 82.2%, slightly
lower than the previous quarter due to lower grades processed at both
operations but offset slightly by higher carbon-in-leach (CIL)
recoveries at Macraes.
The Company expects the New Zealand operations to achieve its production
guidance for the year.
Project Development
At Didipio, on-going project development activities include the TSF lift
which the Company will continue to build over the next five years to
its ultimate life of mine capacity, debottlenecking of the process
plant to the planned 3.5 Mtpa throughput rate, the development of the
Didipio power grid connection and the Didipio optimisation study.
In New Zealand, the Round Hill and Blackwater studies are progressing
well.
Sustainability Overview
During the first quarter, the Company invested nearly $1.0 million on
community initiatives and other development programs within Didipio and
neighbouring communities.
In the quarter, the Company continued to focus on infrastructure
development and education. The Company's education program saw twelve
of its scholars including one post-graduate student successfully
complete their university programs.
Subsequent to the quarter end, the Company was awarded the Gold Award
for Woman Empowerment at the Sixth Annual Global CSR Summit and Awards
in Bali, Indonesia. This event recognises Corporate Social
Responsibility and Environment excellence and is hosted in Asian
countries each year.
Table 3 - Key Financial Statistics for Didipio Operations
|
|
|
Q1
Mar 31 2014
|
|
|
Q4
Dec 31 2013
|
|
|
Q12
Mar 31 2013
|
Gold Sold (ounces)
|
|
36,264
|
|
|
20,900
|
|
|
2,791
|
Copper Sold (tonnes)
|
|
7,752
|
|
|
6,461
|
|
|
1,549
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Gold Price Received ($ per ounce)
|
|
1,317
|
|
|
1,244
|
|
|
1,629
|
Average Copper Price Received ($ per tonne)
|
|
6,939
|
|
|
7,291
|
|
|
8,070
|
Cash Operating Costs1 ($ per ounce)
|
|
(490)
|
|
|
(1,081)
|
|
|
N/A
|
Cash Operating Margin ($ per ounce)
|
|
1,807
|
|
|
2,325
|
|
|
N/A
|
-
Net of by-product credits
-
Commercial production was declared effective April 1, 2013 at Didipio
and operating costs and net revenue received prior to this date were
capitalised.
Table 4 - Didipio Operating Statistics
|
|
Q1
Mar 31 2014
|
Q4
Dec 31 2013
|
Q1*
Mar 31 2013
|
Gold Produced (ounces)
|
30,480
|
27,713
|
6,877
|
Copper Produced (tonnes)
|
6,479
|
7,536
|
3,663
|
|
|
|
|
Total Ore Mined (tonnes)
|
1,674,096
|
2,618,832
|
1,837,081
|
|
|
|
|
Ore Mined Grade Gold (grams/tonne)
|
0.83
|
0.69
|
0.49
|
Ore Mined Grade Copper (%)
|
0.61
|
0.53
|
0.65
|
|
|
|
|
Total Waste Mined (tonnes) including pre-strip
|
4,444,876
|
3,473,327
|
2,750,042
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Feed (dry milled tonnes)
|
750,626
|
729,121
|
448,703
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Feed Grade Gold (grams/tonne)
|
1.40
|
1.33
|
0.59
|
Mill Feed Grade Copper (%)
|
0.90
|
1.09
|
0.92
|
|
|
|
|
Recovery Gold (%)
|
90.2
|
88.7
|
79.8
|
Recovery Copper (%)
|
95.4
|
95.0
|
88.6
|
* Note: operating statistics at Didipio before April 1, 2013 are
pre-commercial production
Table 5 - Key Financial Statistics for New Zealand Operations
|
|
Q1
Mar 31 2014
|
Q4
Dec 31 2013
|
Q1
Mar 31 2013
|
Gold Sales (ounces)
|
57,786
|
79,510
|
58,585
|
|
|
|
|
Average Price Received ($ per ounce)
|
1,307
|
1,267
|
1,632
|
Cash Operating Cost ($ per ounce)
|
584
|
550
|
687
|
|
|
|
|
Cash Operating Margin ($ per ounce)
|
723
|
717
|
945
|
|
|
|
|
Table 6 - Combined Operating Statistics for New Zealand
|
|
Q1
Mar 31 2014
|
Q4
Dec 31 2013
|
Q1
Mar 31 2013
|
Gold Produced (ounces)
|
56,088
|
87,506
|
60,586
|
|
|
|
|
Total Ore Mined (tonnes)
|
1,753,796
|
2,559,315
|
1,985,330
|
|
|
|
|
Ore Mined Grade (grams/tonne)
|
1.25
|
1.53
|
1.31
|
|
|
|
|
Total Waste Mined (tonnes) including pre-strip
|
7,665,243
|
12,436,112
|
16,389,898
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Feed (dry milled tonnes)
|
1,693,711
|
1,824,732
|
1,798,616
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Feed Grade (grams/tonne)
|
1.23
|
1.79
|
1.28
|
|
|
|
|
Recovery (%)
|
82.2
|
83.2
|
79.8
|
|
|
|
|
Table 7 - Macraes Goldfield Operating Statistics
|
|
Q1
Mar 31 2014
|
Q4
Dec 31 2013
|
Q1
Mar 31 2013
|
Gold Produced (ounces)
|
40,668
|
68,419
|
48,139
|
|
|
|
|
Total Ore Mined (tonnes)
|
1,303,632
|
2,026,193
|
1,643,432
|
|
|
|
|
Ore Mined Grade (grams/tonne)
|
1.21
|
1.55
|
1.28
|
|
|
|
|
Total Waste Mined (tonnes) including pre-strip
|
2,934,955
|
7,838,100
|
12,393,410
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Feed (dry milled tonnes)
|
1,275,748
|
1,412,920
|
1,462,409
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Feed Grade (grams/tonne)
|
1.19
|
1.79
|
1.27
|
|
|
|
|
Recovery (%)
|
82.9
|
84.1
|
80.2
|
|
|
|
|
Table 8 - Reefton Goldfield Operating Statistics
|
|
Q1
Mar 31 2014
|
Q4
Dec 31 2013
|
Q1
Mar 31 2013
|
Gold Produced (ounces)
|
15,420
|
19,087
|
12,447
|
|
|
|
|
Total Ore Mined (tonnes)
|
450,164
|
533,122
|
341,898
|
|
|
|
|
Ore Mined Grade (grams/tonne)
|
1.38
|
1.45
|
1.47
|
|
|
|
|
Total Waste Mined (tonnes) including pre-strip
|
4,730,288
|
4,598,012
|
3,996,488
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Feed (dry milled tonnes)
|
417,963
|
411,812
|
336,207
|
|
|
|
|
Mill Feed Grade (grams/tonne)
|
1.38
|
1.79
|
1.35
|
|
|
|
|
Recovery (%)
|
80.2
|
80.3
|
78.3
|
|
|
|
|
PRODUCTION
In the first quarter of 2014, the Company produced 86,568 ounces of
gold, a 25% decrease from the previous quarter on account of lower
production from the New Zealand operations partly offset by increased
gold production from Didipio. First quarter copper production of 6,479
tonnes was 14% lower than in the previous quarter due mainly to lower
grade copper processed at Didipio.
The total Company cash costs net of by-product credits for the first
quarter were $170 per ounce on 94,050 ounces of gold sold. On a
co-product basis, the Company's cash costs for the first quarter were
$524 per ounce on 136,907 gold equivalent ounces sold.
Didipio Mine (Philippines)
The Didipio operation incurred no lost time injuries ("LTI") in the
first quarter and as at the end of March 2014, it had recorded over 10
million man hours worked without an LTI.
In the first quarter, the operation achieved record quarterly gold
production of 30,480 ounces, an increase on the previous quarter due to
higher gold grades processed and a higher gold recovery. Copper
production for the first quarter was 6,479 tonnes, lower than in the
fourth quarter of 2013 on account of lower copper grades processed.
In the first quarter of 2014, the mining operations focused on
delivering ore mainly from Stage 2 of the open pit. At the end of the
quarter, the operation completed mining Stage 2 and commenced
pre-stripping of Stage 4 while continuing to mine from Stage 3. Mining
operations also continued to supply competent waste rock for the
construction of the TSF lift.
The total material mined in the first quarter was 6.1 million tonnes
including 1.7 million tonnes of ore, most of which was stockpiled while
higher grade ore was delivered to the ROM pad for processing. The total
ore mined in the first quarter was lower than in the previous quarter
as a result of varying mine schedules whereby more ore and less waste
was mined in the fourth quarter of 2013. In addition, pre-stripping of
Stage 4 began in the first quarter of 2014 resulting in more waste
mined than in the previous quarters. As at the end of the quarter,
approximately 8.3 million tonnes of ore of varying grades were
stockpiled for future processing.
The total feed through the mill in the first quarter was 750,626 tonnes,
an increase on the previous quarter on account of better mill
availability. Debottlenecking activities to achieve the planned 3.5
Mtpa throughput rate continues to advance well and is on track for
completion by the end of the year.
Mill feed grade for the quarter was 1.40 g/t for gold and 0.90% for
copper. Gold recovery for the first quarter was 90.2%, higher than the
previous quarter due to higher gold grades processed and better
flotation and gravity recoveries. Copper recovery was 95.4%, similar to
the previous quarter.
In the first quarter, the Company made four shipments of concentrate
totalling approximately 30,152 dry metric tonnes from the San Fernando
port on the west coast of Luzon to smelters in Asia. In the previous
quarter, a high demand for ships in Indonesia resulted in fewer ships
available to transport the Didipio concentrate thus requiring the
operation to stockpile concentrate at port and at site. As at the end
of the first quarter 2014, nearly this entire inventory had been
cleared.
Looking ahead to the second quarter of 2014, the mining operation will
focus on mining Stage 3 to expose higher grade gold and copper deeper
in the pit which is expected to begin in the third quarter and also on
the Stage 4 cutback. In the next quarter, the process plant will be
shut down for a period of approximately one week for improvements to be
made on the ball mill and to install a third tailings delivery line,
which is part of the debottlenecking activities. As such, the Company
expects second quarter production to be lower than in the first
quarter.
Macraes Goldfield (New Zealand)
There was one LTI during the first quarter at the Macraes operation
(open pit and underground). An underground operator sprained an ankle
when he tripped on a grout basket used by a forklift. The Company has
modified the grout basket that was being operated to avoid a
recurrence.
Gold production from the Macraes Goldfield for the first quarter was
40,668 ounces and in line with the Company's expectations. First
quarter production was lower than the previous quarter on account of
lower grade ore mined and processed and less mill feed. As previously
reported, the mine plan at Macraes was re-optimised early in 2014 to
ensure a sustainable business plan in a lower gold price environment.
As a result, less ore and waste will be mined in 2014 while low grade
stockpiled ore will be processed to supplement the mill feed.
Total material mined from the open pit was 4.2 million tonnes for the
quarter, approximately 57% less than in the previous quarter due to the
changes made to the mine plan. During the quarter, mining operations
continued in the Frasers 5 pit and the cutback on the west wall while a
smaller Frasers 6 cutback recommenced. Development of Frasers 6 will
support the exposure of ore that will be mined over the balance of the
mine life.
At the Frasers Underground, mining was undertaken in Panels 1 and 2 in
the quarter. Total ore mined for the quarter was 210,201 tonnes, a 6%
decrease over the previous quarter due mainly to lower productivity.
Mill feed was 1.28 million tonnes compared to 1.41 million tonnes in the
previous quarter. In early March, high winds dislodged a power line
from a nearby transmission pole which resulted in a power surge at the
process plant. This caused a partial burnout of one of the main mill
motors resulting in reduced throughput rates to approximately 65% of
normal operating rates for a period of 3 weeks whilst the motor was
repaired. The repair to the motor was completed by the end of the first
quarter.
Mill feed grade for the quarter was 1.19 g/t, lower than the previous
quarter due mainly to lower grade ore mined from the open pit mine.
The process plant recovery was 82.9% in the quarter, which was lower
than the previous quarter on account of a lower head grade partly
offset by a higher carbon-in-leach (CIL) recovery.
Looking ahead to the second quarter, less ore and at lower grades will
be mined from the open pit than in the first quarter and the operation
will process lower grades as a result of processing a larger proportion
of low grade stockpile ore.
Reefton Goldfield (New Zealand)
In the first quarter of 2014, no LTI's were recorded at the Reefton
operation.
Gold production at the Reefton Goldfield for the first quarter was
15,420 ounces, a decrease of 19% from the previous quarter but in line
with expectations. This decrease was attributable to lower grade ore
mined and processed.
The total material mined in the quarter was 5.2 million tonnes, similar
to the previous quarter. The total ore mined for the first quarter was
450,164 tonnes, a 15% decrease on the previous quarter. High tonnage
and high grade zones within the lower levels of the pit were mined
early in the first quarter. The operation is now mining within Stages 6
and 7 of the pit with minor ore zones being extracted until development
exposes high grade, high tonnage zones early in the third quarter.
Mill feed was 417,963 tonnes in the first quarter, a slight increase on
the previous quarter due to processing a larger amount of low grade
stockpile ore.
The mill feed grade in the first quarter was 1.38 g/t versus 1.79 g/t in
the previous quarter as a result of lower grade ore mined and
processing of low grade stockpile ore.
Gold recovery for the quarter was 80.2%, similar to the previous
quarter.
Looking ahead at Reefton, the final cutback of the mine plan is expected
to be completed in early third quarter. As a result, the operation will
be mining mostly ore for the remainder of its mine plan out to the
third quarter of 2015.
EXPLORATION
Exploration expenditure for the first quarter of 2014 was $0.6 million.
Exploration activities for the first quarter were focused mainly on near
mine site drilling at Didipio and target identification within the
broader FTAA area.
Philippines
Exploration expenditure in the Philippines for the first quarter of 2014
totalled $0.4 million.
Exploration drilling resumed in February at the San Pedro prospect, 1.4
kilometers northwest of the Didipio pit. During the quarter, a total of
606 metres were drilled from two holes. The drill holes were testing
for potential copper-gold porphyry mineralisation beneath areas of
extensive alluvial gold mining. The completed holes intersected
intrusive rocks that are variably altered to propylitic, potassic, and
argillic assemblages with only occasional and sparse copper
mineralisation along fractures. Assay results are pending.
Two to three additional drill holes are planned at the San Pedro
prospect for this year. Additional drilling is planned in the broader
FTAA area upon renewal of the FTAA exploration period.
In the broader Philippines, the Company received the strong support and
official consent from the National Commission of Indigenous Peoples
("NCIP") for its Mayag tenement in northern Mindanao. The official
consent was received in the form of a "Certificate of Compliance" also
referred to as a "Certification of Precondition", which evidences to
the Philippine regulatory bodies that the Company has complied with all
NCIP conditions including the free and prior informed consent ("FPIC")
of the indigenous peoples in Mayag. Receipt of the Certificate of
Compliance is a major milestone for the Company in the process to be
granted exploration permits for its Mayag tenement.
Project Development
At Didipio, debottlenecking of the process plant to achieve the planned
3.5 Mtpa throughput rate is on track. This includes the installation of
a pebble crushing circuit and replacement of some drive motors.
Construction of Stage 3 of the TSF lift including the flow through waste
rock intake is on track for completion in the middle of 2014. The
Company expects to complete the construction of the Didipio TSF to its
ultimate life of mine capacity over the next five years at a total
estimated capital cost of $35 million which is tracking on budget.
The development of the Didipio power grid connection continued to
advance well. By connecting to the power grid, the Company will reduce
its power costs at the operation beginning in 2015.
The Company continues to identify opportunities to increase productivity
and efficiencies. The Didipio optimisation study continues to advance
well and the Company expects the study to be completed in the fourth
quarter of 2014.
In New Zealand, the Round Hill gold / tungsten study at Macraes and the
Blackwater study near Reefton are progressing well.
Sustainability
During the first quarter, the Company invested nearly $1.0 million on
community initiatives and other development programs within Didipio and
neighbouring communities. Much of the focus in the quarter was on
infrastructure development, which continued to be the largest component
of sustainability expenditure for the Company. Infrastructure projects
in the first quarter included: day care centres, school buildings,
several road improvements, water systems and rehabilitation of a
hanging bridge.
The Company's education programs included scholarships and teachers'
salaries and subsidies. As of the end of the school year in March 2014,
twelve company scholars successfully graduated with eleven completing
their baccalaureate degrees while one completed her Master's Degree in
Education. The Company also continued investing in and supporting
health, enterprise development and capacity building programs.
During the first quarter, site development of the Company's primary tree
nursery in barangay Tucod transitioned to full operation. In 2014, the
Company expects that 100,000 seedlings will be propagated from this
nursery while seedling production is expected to commence early in the
second quarter. The Company is currently surveying additional areas for
tree plantations in the municipalities of Kasibu, Nueva Vizcaya and
Cabarroguis, Quirino.
Late in the first quarter, the Company participated in the 11th Philippine Multi-Sectoral Forum on Watershed Management, which brings
together global stakeholders in water management to discuss best
practices and effective river basin management. The Company also became
a member of the Philippine Watershed Management Coalition.
Subsequent to the quarter end, the Company was awarded the Gold Award
for Women Empowerment at the Sixth Annual Global CSR Summit and Awards
in Bali, Indonesia. Each year at this event, companies with operations
in Asia are recognised for Corporate Social Responsibility and
Environment excellence.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
|
Q1
Mar 31 2014
$000
|
Q4
Dec 31 2013
$000
|
Q1
Mar 31 2013
$000
|
Sales
|
170,355
|
170,142
|
95,639
|
Cost of sales, excluding depreciation and amortisation
|
(63,183)
|
(64,089)
|
(39,875)
|
General & Administration
|
(8,315)
|
(8,602)
|
(6,162)
|
Foreign Currency Exchange Gain/(Loss)
|
2,916
|
526
|
(418)
|
Other income/(expense)
|
(743)
|
(1,480)
|
(2,108)
|
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation &
amortisation (EBITDA) (excluding gain/(loss) on
undesignated hedges and impairment charge)
|
101,030
|
96,497
|
47,076
|
Depreciation and amortisation
|
(33,366)
|
(34,855)
|
(29,547)
|
Net interest expense and finance costs
|
(2,430)
|
(7,991)
|
(6,376)
|
Earnings/(loss) before income tax and gain/(loss) on
undesignated hedges and impairment charge
|
65,234
|
53,651
|
11,153
|
Tax (expense)/ benefit on earnings/loss
|
(5,365)
|
(7,841)
|
(4,663)
|
Earnings/(loss) after income tax and before gain/(loss) on
undesignated hedges and impairment charge
|
59,869
|
45,810
|
6,490
|
Impairment charge
|
-
|
(107,800)
|
-
|
Gain/(loss) on fair value undesignated hedges
|
(1,283)
|
5,210
|
813
|
Tax (expense)/benefit on gain/loss on undesignated hedges and impairment
|
359
|
28,621
|
(244)
|
Net Profit/(loss)
|
58,945
|
(28,159)
|
7,059
|
Basic earnings per share
|
$0.20
|
$(0.10)
|
$0.02
|
Diluted earnings per share
|
$0.19
|
$(0.10)
|
$0.02
|
CASH FLOWS
|
|
|
|
Cash flows from Operating Activities
|
73,288
|
89,023
|
21,441
|
Cash flows used in Investing Activities
|
(24,147)
|
(33,200)
|
(64,982)
|
Cash flows used in Financing Activities
|
(25,198)
|
(50,017)
|
(25,710)
|
BALANCE SHEET
|
As at
Mar 31 2014
$000
|
As at
Dec 31 2013
$000
|
Cash and cash equivalents
|
42,060
|
24,788
|
Other Current Assets
|
143,173
|
126,400
|
Non-Current Assets
|
759,421
|
745,638
|
Total Assets
|
944,654
|
896,826
|
Current Liabilities
|
122,803
|
129,478
|
Non-Current Liabilities
|
158,902
|
175,618
|
Total Liabilities
|
281,705
|
305,096
|
Total Shareholders' Equity
|
662,949
|
591,730
|
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Net Earnings
In the first quarter, the Company reported a record quarterly net profit
of $58.9 million versus a net loss of $28.2 million in the previous
quarter.
The Company reported record quarterly EBITDA (excluding gain/loss on
undesignated hedge and impairment charge) of $101.0 million in the
first quarter of 2014 compared to $96.5 million in the fourth quarter
of 2013. The increase is attributed to higher gold and copper sales
from the Philippines, higher average gold price received and lower
costs, partly offset by lower gold sales from New Zealand and lower
copper price received.
The earnings before income tax and before gain/(loss) on undesignated
hedges and impairment charge was $65.2 million for the first quarter
compared to $53.7 million in the previous quarter. The increase is
attributable to a higher EBITDA, coupled with lower interest and
finance charges.
Sales Revenue
Philippines
First quarter concentrate sales revenue net of concentrate treatment,
refining and selling costs in Philippines was $85.2 million of which
copper revenue was $53.8 million while gold bullion revenue was $7.6
million. In the first quarter, the average gold price received at
Didipio was $1,317 per ounce compared to $1,244 per ounce in the
previous quarter and the average copper price received was $6,939 per
tonne compared to $7,291 per tonne in the previous quarter. Gold sold
in the first quarter was 36,264 ounces while copper sold was 7,752
tonnes. Silver sales for the quarter were 117,955 ounces compared with
76,813 ounces in the previous quarter.
In the previous quarter, a high demand for ships in Indonesia resulted
in fewer ships available to transport the Didipio concentrate thus
requiring the operation to stockpile concentrate at site. As at the end
of the first quarter 2014, nearly this entire inventory had been
cleared.
New Zealand
In New Zealand, first quarter revenue was $75.6 million compared to
revenue in the fourth quarter 2013 of $100.7 million. This 25% decrease
was due mainly to lower ounces of gold sold partly offset by a slightly
higher average gold price received.
The average gold price received in New Zealand in the first quarter was
$1,307 per ounce compared to $1,267 per ounce received in the previous
quarter. Gold sold in the first quarter was 57,786 ounces compared to
79,510 ounces in the previous quarter. This decrease was due mainly to
decreased production at both Macraes and Reefton.
Operating Costs and Margins per Ounce
Philippines
Operating cash costs at Didipio were negative ($490) per ounce sold, net
of by-product credits for the first quarter compared to negative
($1,081) per ounce sold in the previous quarter. On a co-product basis,
the operating cash costs were $483 per ounce of gold sold compared to
$434 per ounce in previous quarter. The gold equivalent ounces have
been calculated by converting copper and silver revenue using an
average gold price received of $1,317 per ounce for the quarter.
New Zealand
Operating cash costs in New Zealand were $584 per ounce sold for the
first quarter compared to $550 per ounce sold in the previous quarter.
This result was mainly due to lower ounces of gold sold in the quarter
and a stronger New Zealand dollar but partly offset by lower mining
costs.
The average cash margin in New Zealand was $723 per ounce for the first
quarter versus $717 for the fourth quarter 2013. The slight increase
was a result of a higher average gold price received partly offset by a
higher cash cost per ounce sold.
Depreciation and Amortisation
Depreciation and amortisation charges include amortisation of mine
development, deferred pre- stripping costs and depreciation on
equipment.
Depreciation and amortisation charges are mostly calculated on a unit of
production basis and totalled $33.4 million for the first quarter of
2014 compared to $34.9 million in the previous quarter. The decrease
reflects the lower production from New Zealand in the quarter.
Net Interest Expense and Finance Costs
The net interest expense and finance costs of $2.4 million for the
quarter were significantly lower than the previous quarter of $8.0
million due mainly to less debt on the balance sheet and lower
financing rates.
Undesignated Hedges Gains/Losses
Unrealised gains and losses calculated as a fair value adjustment of the
Company's undesignated hedges are brought to account at the end of each
reporting period and reflect changes in the spot gold price. These
valuation adjustments for the quarter ending March 31, 2014, reflect a
loss of $1.3 million compared to a gain of $5.2 million in the previous
quarter.
Details of the derivative instruments held by the Company at year end
are summarised below under "Derivative Assets/ Liabilities".
DISCUSSION OF CASH FLOWS
Operating Activities
Cash inflows from operating activities were $73.3 million for the first
quarter of 2014 compared to $89.0 million in the previous quarter. The
decrease was mainly due to lower gold sales in New Zealand, lower
average copper price received and an increase in working capital,
partly offset by higher sales from the Philippines.
Investing Activities
Cash used for investing activities totalled $24.1 million in the first
quarter compared to $33.2 million in the previous quarter.
Investing activities comprised expenditures for capitalised mining
expenditure, sustaining and expansionary capital and exploration
expenditure at both the New Zealand and Philippines operations.
Financing Activities
Financing net outflows for the first quarter were $25.2 million compared
to a net outflow of $50.0 million in the previous quarter. This
reflects a net repayment of borrowings of $20 million during the
quarter, in addition to repayment of finance leases.
DISCUSSION OF FINANCIAL POSITION AND LIQUIDITY
Company's funding and capital requirements
For the quarter ended March 31, 2014, the Company recorded a net profit
of $58.9 million. As at the end of the quarter, the cash funds held
were $42.1 million. Net current assets were $62.4 million at quarter
end. The Company repaid $20.0 million of its drawn revolving credit
facility prior to the end of the quarter.
At March 31, 2014, undrawn funds from the revolving credit facility
established in 2012 were $50.0 million. Together with cash, the Company
has immediate available liquidity of $92.1 million.
Commitments
The Company's capital commitments as at March 31, 2014 are as follows:
|
Mar 31 2014
$000
|
Within 1 year
|
14,592
|
This includes mainly contracts supporting the operations of the Didipio
Mine.
Financial Position
Current Assets
Current assets at the end of the first quarter of 2014 were $185.2
million compared to $151.2 million at the end of fourth quarter 2013.
The variance in the current assets was due mainly to an increase in
cash generated from operations as well as increases in inventories and
trade receivables mainly in Philippines.
Non-Current Assets
Non-current assets were $759.4 million at the end of the quarter
compared to $745.6 million at December 31, 2013. The variance is due to
increases in inventories, input tax credits paid and capitalised mining
costs and to additions to property, plant and equipment, partly offset
by depreciation and amortisation.
Current Liabilities
Current liabilities were $122.8 million as at March 31, 2014 compared to
$129.5 million as at December 31, 2013. This decrease was attributed
mainly to a decrease in trade creditors and the repayment of capital
leases.
Non-Current Liabilities
Non-current liabilities were $158.9 million as at the end of the first
quarter compared to $175.6 million at the end of the previous quarter.
The decrease was due mainly to the repayment of $20 million of the
revolving credit capital facility, partly offset by an increase in
deferred tax liabilities.
Derivative Assets / Liabilities
In 2013, the Company had entered into a gold bullion zero cost collar
agreement to purchase gold put options at an exercise price of NZ$1,600
per ounce, which were financed by an equal number of gold call options
sold at an exercise price of NZ$1,787 per ounce for 115,650 ounces of
production at the Reefton operation for the period from July 2013 to
June 2015. As at the end of the first quarter of 2014, the balance of
Reefton gold production under this agreement was 69,210 gold ounces.
Early in the first quarter, the Company entered into a gold bullion zero
cost collar agreement to purchase gold put options at an exercise price
of NZ$1,500 per ounce, which were financed by an equal number of gold
call options sold at an exercise price of NZ$1,600 per ounce for
208,000 ounces of production at the Macraes operation over a two-year
period.
The above hedges are undesignated and do not qualify for hedge
accounting.
A summary of the Company's marked to market derivatives is as per below:
|
|
|
|
Mar 31 2014
$000
|
Dec 31 2013
$000
|
Current Assets
|
Gold put/call options
|
8,748
|
7,501
|
|
|
|
Non-Current Assets
|
Gold put/call options
|
581
|
2,619
|
Total Assets
|
9,329
|
10,120
|
|
|
|
Shareholders' Equity
A summary of the movement in shareholders' equity is set out below:
|
|
|
Period Ended
Mar 31 2014
$000
|
Total equity at beginning of financial period
|
591,730
|
Profit/(loss) after income tax
|
58,945
|
Movement in other comprehensive income
|
11,498
|
Movement in contributed surplus
|
206
|
Issue of shares/ (Equity raising costs)
|
570
|
Total equity at end of financial period
|
662,949
|
|
|
Shareholder's equity has increased by $71.2 million to $662.9 million at
March 31, 2014, mainly as a result of a net profit after tax for the
year of $58.9 million, and currency translation differences reflected
in "Other Comprehensive Income" that arise from the translation of
entities with a functional currency other than USD.
Capital Resources
As at March 31, 2014, the share and securities summary was:
|
|
Shares outstanding
|
300,567,375
|
Options and share rights outstanding
|
9,541,312
|
|
|
As at April 29, 2014, there was no change in shares and securities:
|
|
Shares outstanding
|
300,567,375
|
Options and share rights outstanding
|
9,541,312
|
|
|
As at December 31, 2013, the share and securities summary was:
|
|
Shares outstanding
|
300,350,127
|
Options and share rights outstanding
|
9,846,182
|
|
|
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires
management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts
reported in the consolidated financial statements and related notes.
Exploration and Evaluation Expenditure
Exploration and evaluation expenditure is stated at cost and is
accumulated in respect of each identifiable area of interest.
Such costs are only carried forward to the extent that they are expected
to be recouped through the successful development of the area of
interest (or alternatively by its sale), or where activities in the
area have not yet reached a stage which permits a reasonable assessment
of the existence or otherwise of economically recoverable resources,
and active work is continuing.
Accumulated costs in relation to an abandoned area are written off to
the Statement of Operations in the period in which the decision to
abandon the area is made.
A regular review is undertaken of each area of interest to determine the
appropriateness of continuing to carry forward costs in relation to
that area of interest.
Mining Properties in Production or Under Development
Expenditure relating to mining properties in production and development
are accumulated and brought to account at cost less accumulated
amortisation in respect of each identifiable area of interest.
Amortisation of capitalised costs, including the estimated future
capital costs over the life of the area of interest, is provided on the
production output basis, proportional to the depletion of the mineral
resource of each area of interest expected to be ultimately
economically recoverable.
Costs associated with the removal of overburden and other mine waste
materials that are incurred in the production phase of mining
operations are included in the costs of inventory in the period in
which they are incurred, except when the charges represent getting
better access to a component of the mineral property.
Charges are capitalised when the stripping activity provides better
access to components of the ore body and reserves that will be produced
in future periods that would not have been accessible without the
stripping activity. When charges are deferred in relation to such
activity, the charges are amortised over the reserve in the betterment
accessed by the stripping activity using the units of production
method.
A regular review is undertaken of each area of interest to determine the
appropriateness of continuing to carry forward costs in relation to
that area of interest. Should the carrying value of expenditure not
yet amortised exceed its estimated recoverable amount, the excess is
written off to the Statement of Comprehensive Income.
Asset Retirement Obligations
OceanaGold recognises the present value of future asset retirement
obligations as a liability in the period in which it incurs a legal
obligation associated with the retirement of long-lived assets that
results from the acquisition, construction, development and/or normal
use of the assets. OceanaGold concurrently recognises a corresponding
increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset that is
depreciated over the life of the asset.
The key assumptions on which the present value of the asset retirement
obligations are based include the estimated risk-adjusted future
cash flows, the timing of those cash flows and the risk-free rate or
rates on which the estimated cash flows have been discounted.
Subsequent to the initial measurement, the liability is accreted over
time through periodic charges to earnings. The amount of the liability
is subject to re-measurement at each reporting period if there has been
a change to the key assumptions.
Asset Impairment Evaluations
The carrying values of exploration, evaluation, mining properties in
production or under development and plant and equipment are reviewed
for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the
carrying value may not be recoverable. If any such indication exists
and where the carrying value exceeds the discounted future cash flows
from these assets, the assets are written down to the fair value of the
estimated future cash flows based on OceanaGold's weighted average
cost of capital.
Non-current assets are tested for impairment when events or changes in
circumstances suggest that the carrying amount may not be fully
recoverable.
Derivative Financial Instruments/Hedge Accounting
The consolidated entity has used derivative financial instruments to
manage commodity price and foreign currency exposures from time to
time. Derivative financial instruments are initially recognised in the
balance sheet at fair value and are subsequently re- measured at their
fair values at each reporting date.
The fair value of gold hedging instruments is calculated by discounting
the future value of the hedge contract at the appropriate prevailing
quoted market rates at the reporting date. The fair value of forward
exchange contracts is calculated by reference to the current forward
exchange rate for contracts with similar maturity profiles.
Stock Option Pricing Model
Stock options granted to employees or external parties are measured by
reference to the fair value at grant date and are recognised as an
expense in equal instalments over the vesting period and credited to
the contributed surplus account. The expense is determined using an
option pricing model that takes into account the exercise price, the
term of the option, the impact of dilution, the non-tradable nature of
the option, the current price and expected volatility of the underlying
share, the expected dividend yield and the risk free interest rate for
the term of the option.
Income Tax
The Group follows the liability method of income tax allocation. Under
this method, future tax assets and liabilities are determined based on
differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and
liabilities and are measured using the substantially enacted tax rates
and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to
reverse. Deferred tax assets including tax losses are recognised to the
extent that it is probable that the Company will generate sufficient
future taxable income. Utilisation of the tax losses also depends on
the ability of the entities to satisfy certain tests at the time the
losses are recouped.
Foreign Currency Translation
The consolidated financial statements are expressed in United States
dollars ("USD") and have been translated to USD using the current rate
method described below. The controlled entities of OceanaGold have
either Australian dollars ("AUD"), New Zealand dollars ("NZD") or
United States dollars ("USD") as their functional currency. Foreign
currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using
the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions.
Generally, foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the
settlement of foreign currency transactions and from the translation at
year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated
in currencies other than an operation's functional currency are
recognised in the statement of income.
Significant areas where Management's judgment is applied include ore
reserve and resource determinations, exploration and evaluation assets,
mine development costs, plant and equipment lives, contingent
liabilities, current tax provisions and future tax balances and asset
retirement obligations. Actual results may differ from those
estimates.
RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES
This document contains some forward looking statements that involve
risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results,
performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from
those expressed or implied by those forward looking statements. Factors
that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from
current expectations include, among other things: volatility and
sensitivity to market prices for gold; replacement of reserves;
possible variations of ore grade or recovery rates; changes in project
parameters; procurement of required capital equipment and operating
parts and supplies; equipment failures; unexpected geological
conditions; political risks arising from operating in certain
developing countries; inability to enforce legal rights; defects in
title; imprecision in reserve estimates; success of future exploration
and development initiatives; operating performance of current
operations; ability to secure long term financing and capital, water
management, environmental and safety risks; seismic activity, weather
and other natural phenomena; failure to obtain necessary permits and
approvals from government authorities; changes in government
regulations and policies including tax and trade laws and policies;
ability to maintain and further improve labour relations; general
business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties and
other development and operating risks.
For further detail and discussion of risks and uncertainties refer to
the Annual Information Form available on the Company's website.
CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES INCLUDING INITIAL ADOPTION
Adoption of new accounting policies
The accounting policies adopted during the period are consistent with
those of the previous financial year and corresponding reporting
period.
Accounting policies effective for future periods
The following accounting policies are effective for future periods:
IFRS 9 - Financial instruments
This standard will replace IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition
and Measurement. IFRS 9 has two classification categories: amortized
cost and fair value.
Classification of debt assets will be driven by the entity's business
model for managing the financial assets and the contractual cash flow
characteristics of the financial assets. A 'simple' debt instrument is
measured at amortised cost if: a) the objective of the business model
is to hold the financial asset for the collection of the contractual
cash flows, and b) the contractual cash flows under the instrument
solely represent payments of principal and interest.
All other financial assets, including investments in complex debt
instruments and equity investments must be measured at fair value.
All fair value movements on financial assets must be recognised in
profit or loss except for equity investments that are not held for
trading (short-term profit taking), which may be recorded in other
comprehensive income (FVOCI). However, in December 2012, the IASB
proposed limited amendments which would introduce a FVOCI category for
certain eligible debt instruments.
For financial liabilities that are measured under the fair value option,
entities will need to recognise the part of the fair value change that
is due to changes in the entity's own credit risk in other
comprehensive income rather than profit or loss.
New hedging rules will also be included in the standard. These will make
testing for hedge effectiveness easier which means that more hedges are
likely to be eligible for hedge accounting. The new rules will also
allow more items to be hedged and relax the rules on using purchased
options and non-derivative financial instruments as hedging
instruments.
This standard is effective for years beginning on/after January 1,
2015. The Group has not assessed the impact of this new standard.
IFRIC 21 - Levies
The standard sets out the accounting for an obligation to pay a levy
imposed by a government in accordance with legislation. It clarifies
that a liability must be recognised when the obligating event occurs,
being the event that triggers the obligation to pay the levy.
This standard is effective for years beginning on/after January 1, 2014.
It has no material impact on the Group.
IFRS 2 - Share-based payment
The amendment clarifies the definition of a 'vesting condition' and
separately defines 'performance condition' and 'service condition'.
This standard is effective for share-based payment transactions for
which the grant date is on or after 1 July 2014.
It has no material impact on the Group.
IFRS 3 - Business combinations
The standard is amended to clarify that an obligation to pay contingent
consideration which meets the definition of a financial instrument is
classified as a financial liability or as equity, on the basis of the
definitions in IAS 32, 'Financial instruments: Presentation'. The
standard is further amended to clarify that all non-equity contingent
consideration, both financial and non-financial, is measured at fair
value at each reporting date, with changes in fair value recognised in
profit and loss. Consequential changes are also made to IFRS 9, IAS 37
and IAS 39.
The amendment is effective for business combinations where the
acquisition date is on or after 1 July 2014. The Group will apply the
standard accordingly.
IAS 19 - Defined benefit plans and employee contributions
Amended to clarify the application of IAS 19 to plans that require
employees or third parties to contribute toward the cost of benefits.
This amendment does not affect accounting for voluntary contributions.
The amendment is effective for years commencing on or after 1 July 2014.
The Group does not expect any material impact of this amendment.
SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following table sets forth unaudited information for each of the
eight quarters ended June 30, 2012 through to March 31, 2014. This
information has been derived from our unaudited consolidated financial
statements which, in the opinion of management, have been prepared on a
basis consistent with the audited consolidated financial statements and
include all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring
adjustments, necessary for fair presentation of our financial position
and results of operations for those periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
STATEMENT OF
OPERATIONS
|
Mar 31
2014
$000
|
Dec 31
2013
$000
|
Sep 30
2013
$000
|
Jun 30
2013
$000
|
Mar 31
2013
$000
|
Dec 31
2012
$000
|
Sep 30
2012
$000
|
Jun 30
2012
$000
|
Sales Revenue
|
170,355
|
170,142
|
156,617
|
131,213
|
95,639
|
119,018
|
91,153
|
86,719
|
EBITDA (excluding
gain/(loss) on undesignated
hedges and impairment
charge)
|
101,030
|
96,497
|
76,291
|
42,495
|
47,076
|
67,100
|
28,614
|
25,632
|
Earnings/(loss) after income
tax and before gain/(loss) on
undesignated hedges (net of
tax and impairment charge)
|
59,869
|
45,810
|
43,125
|
(2,647)
|
6,490
|
23,120
|
328
|
735
|
Net Profit/(Loss)
|
58,945
|
(28,159)
|
43,735
|
(70,491)
|
7,059
|
24,197
|
(397)
|
735
|
Net earnings/(loss) per share
|
Basic
|
$0.20
|
$(0.10)
|
$0.15
|
$(0.24)
|
$0.02
|
$0.09
|
$(0.00)
|
$0.00
|
Diluted
|
$0.19
|
$(0.10)
|
$0.14
|
$(0.24)
|
$0.02
|
$0.09
|
$(0.00)
|
$0.00
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The most significant factors causing variation in the results are the
volatility of the gold price and copper price, the variability in the
grade of ore mined from the Macraes, Reefton and Didipio mines, the
timing of waste stripping activities, movements in inventories and
large movements in foreign exchange rates between the USD and the NZD.
NON-GAAP MEASURES
Throughout this document, we have provided measures prepared according
to IFRS ("GAAP") as well as some non-GAAP performance measures. As
non-GAAP performance measures do not have a standardised meaning
prescribed by GAAP, they are unlikely to be comparable to similar
measures presented by other companies.
We provide these non-GAAP measures as they are used by some investors to
evaluate OceanaGold's performance. Accordingly, such non-GAAP measures
are intended to provide additional information and should not be
considered in isolation, or a substitute for measures of performance in
accordance with GAAP.
Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) is
one such non-GAAP measure and a reconciliation of this measure to net
Profit / (Loss) is provided on page 12.
All-In Sustaining Costs per ounce sold is based on the World Gold
Council methodology and is a non-GAAP measure.
Cash costs per ounce is another such non-GAAP measures and a
reconciliation of these measures to cost of sales, is provided on the
next page.
|
|
|
|
|
Statement of Operations
|
|
Q1
Mar 31 2014
|
Q4
Dec 31 2013
|
Q1*
Mar 31 2013
|
Cost of sales, excluding depreciation and amortisation
|
$000
|
63,183
|
64,089
|
39,875
|
Selling costs and Sundry General and Administration
|
$000
|
8,573
|
5,663
|
365
|
By-product credits
|
$000
|
(55,768)
|
(48,666)
|
-
|
Total Cash Costs (Net of by-product credits)
|
$000
|
15,988
|
21,086
|
40,240
|
Gold Sales from operating mines (ounces)
|
$000
|
94,050
|
100,410
|
58,585
|
Cash Operating Costs ($/ounce)
|
$ per ounce
|
170
|
210
|
687
|
|
|
|
|
|
* Note: Commercial production was declared effective April 1, 2013 at
the Didipio Mine and costs net any revenue received prior to this date
were capitalised. Ounces sold reflect Didipio's contribution for the
period from April 1, 2013 to December 31, 2013
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Additional information referring to the Company, including the Company's
Annual Information Form, is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and the Company's website at www.oceanagold.com.
DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
The Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer evaluated the
effectiveness of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures as at
March 31, 2014. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer
and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that the design and operation
of these disclosure controls and procedures were effective as at March
31, 2014 to provide reasonable assurance that material information
relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, would
be made known to them by others within those entities.
INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management of OceanaGold, including the Chief Executive Officer and
Chief Financial Officer, have evaluated the effectiveness of the design
and operation of the Company's internal controls over financial
reporting and disclosure controls and procedures as of March 31, 2014.
Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief
Financial Officer have concluded that they were effective at a
reasonable assurance level.
There were no significant changes in the Company's internal controls, or
in other factors that could significantly affect those controls
subsequent to the date the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial
Officer completed their evaluation, nor were there any significant
deficiencies or material weaknesses in the Company's internal controls
requiring corrective actions.
The Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the
Chief Financial Officer, does not expect that its disclosure controls
and internal controls over financial reporting will prevent all errors
and fraud. A cost effective system of internal controls, no matter how
well conceived or operated, can provide only reasonable not absolute,
assurance that the objectives of the internal controls over financial
reporting are achieved.
NOT FOR DISSEMINATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN THE UNITED STATES OR TO US
PERSONS AND NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO US NEWSWIRE SERVICE
SOURCE OceanaGold Corporation