Interim Results

Hochschild Mining PLC
06 September 2023
 

 

 

6 September 2023

 

 

Hochschild Mining PLC

 

Interim Results

Six months ended 30 June 2023

 

Hochschild Mining PLC ("Hochschild" or the "Company") (LSE: HOC) (OTCQX: HCHDF) is pleased to announce Interim Results for the six months ended 30 June 2023.

 

Financial Highlights

§ Revenue of $314.0 million (H1 2022: $347.8 million)[1]

§ Adjusted EBITDA of $99.5 million (H1 2022: $130.5 million)[2]

§ Profit before income tax (pre-exceptional) of $0.8 million (H1 2022: $15.3 million)

§ Loss before income tax (post-exceptional) of $66.1 million (H1 2022: profit of $5.4 million)

§ Basic loss per share (pre-exceptional) of $0.004 (H1 2022: earning per share of $0.01)

§ Basic loss per share (post-exceptional) of $0.09 (H1 2022: $0.01)

§ Cash and cash equivalent balance of $93.6 million as at 30 June 2023 (31 December 2022: $143.8 million)

§ Net debt of $227.1 million as at 30 June 2023 (31 December 2022: $175.1 million)

Operational Highlights[3] 

§ Inmaculada's Modified Environmental Impact Assessment approved on 1 August 2023 for an additional 20 years

§ All-in sustaining costs (AISC) from operations of $1,572 per gold equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $1,466) or $18.9 per silver equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $17.7)[4]

§ H1 2023 attributable production of 136,878 gold equivalent ounces or 11.4 million silver equivalent ounces (H1 2022: 157,380 gold equivalent ounces or 13.1 million silver equivalent ounces)

Project & Exploration Highlights

§ Mara Rosa project in Brazil advancing on schedule and on budget - total project progress at 92% with first production on track for H1 2024

§ Brownfield programme commenced in the surrounding areas of all three mines

ESG highlights

§ Continued improvement across all key metrics

§ Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate of 0.84 (FY 2022: 1.37)[5]

§ Accident Severity Index of 32 (FY 2022: 93)[6]

§ Water Consumption of 168lt/person/day (FY 2022: 171lt/person/day)

§ Domestic waste generation of 0.95 kg/person/day (FY 2022: 1.05kg/person/day)

§ ECO score of 5.89 out of 6 (FY 2022: 5.27)[7]

2023 Full year outlook

§ Revised guidance mainly reflects the impact of MEIA delays on Inmaculada and accelerated mine development costs at San Jose

§ Revised production target:

289,000-303,0000 gold equivalent ounces (24.0-25.0 million silver equivalent ounces)

§ Revised All-in sustaining costs target:

$1,490-$1,580 per gold equivalent ounce ($18.0-$19.0 per silver equivalent ounce)

§ Total sustaining and development capital expenditure expected to be approximately $130-140 million

§ Additional $60 million drawn down in early August 2023 from $200 million debt facility signed in December 2022

Capital Markets Event

§ Capital Markets Event to be held on 22 November 2023 in London where the Company will set out its long-term strategy

 

$000 unless stated

Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

% change

Attributable silver production (koz)

4,442

5,065

(12)

Attributable gold production (koz)

83

96

(14)

Revenue

314,023

347,781

(10)

Adjusted EBITDA

99,497

130,525

(24)

Profit/(loss) from continuing operations (pre-exceptional)

(4,357)

9,503

(146)

Profit/(loss) from continuing operations (post-exceptional)

(52,685)

(420)

12,444

Basic earnings/(loss) per share (pre-exceptional) $

(0.004)

0.01

(140)

Basic earnings/(loss) per share (post-exceptional) $

(0.09)

(0.01)

800

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

A live conference call and audio webcast will be held at 9.30am (London time) on Wednesday 6 September 2023 for analysts and investors.

For a live webcast of the presentation please click on the link below:

 

https://brrmedia.news/HOC_IR23

                       

Conference call dial in details:

UK: +44 (0)330 551 0200

UK Toll Free: 0808 109 0700

US/Canada Toll Free: 866 580 3963

Pin: Hochschild - Interim Results

 

_______________________________________________________________________________________

 

Enquiries:

 

Hochschild Mining PLC

Charles Gordon                                                                                                                                                                                                 +44 (0)20 3709 3264

Head of Investor Relations

 

Hudson Sandler

Charlie Jack                                                                                                                                                                                                      +44 (0)207 796 4133

Public Relations

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures

The Company has included certain non-IFRS measures in this news release. The Company believes that these measures, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, provide investors an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. The non-IFRS measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. These measures do not have any standardised meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers.

 

About Hochschild Mining PLC:

Hochschild Mining PLC is a leading precious metals company listed on the London Stock Exchange (HOCM.L / HOC LN) and crosstrades on the OTCQX Best Market in the U.S. (HCHDF), with a primary focus on the exploration, mining, processing and sale of silver and gold. Hochschild has over fifty years' experience in the mining of precious metal epithermal vein deposits and currently operates three underground epithermal vein mines, two located in southern Peru and one in southern Argentina. Hochschild also owns the Mara Rosa Advanced Project in Brazil as well as numerous long-term projects throughout the Americas

EDUARDO LANDIN, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER SAID:

 

I am honoured to lead Hochschild Mining PLC and believe in a relationship with shareholders based on trust and a thorough appreciation of our key strengths.

 

We are dedicated to transparency and responsible business practices. Our core competencies drive success, with a proven track record of finding new resources, looking for new value accretive opportunities, delivering projects on time and on budget and operating efficiently. These are underpinned by a focus on consistent ESG performance and the capacity to continually learn from experience.

 

I look forward to working with colleagues across the business to ensure that we continue improving our strong safety, environmental, operational and financial record, while progressing our growth strategy. Together with the executive team,  we are fully committed to unleashing Hochschild's full potential. We believe that safe, efficient operations, a clear strategic direction, great people and capital discipline will enable our Company to generate superior returns for shareholders and make a broader positive contribution to society.

 

The first half of the year was challenging for the Company as we reached the final stages of the process in securing Inmaculada's Modified Environmental Impact Assessment ("MEIA") which, regrettably, impacted in the short-term our operational and exploration strategy. However, following the recent welcome approval of the MEIA by the Peruvian government, the Company is now in an excellent position to optimise the Inmaculada mine and unlock its impressive geological potential, complete construction of our new Mara Rosa operation in Brazil and advance the new Royropata discovery at Pallancata.

 

I would like to thank the teams involved in four years of hard work on the permitting project and am delighted that Inmaculada will remain a key part of Hochschild's portfolio for many years to come. The extension reaffirms our commitment to our stakeholders in the Ayacucho region and its communities as well as to Peru overall.

 

ESG

We continued with our focus on safety and are proud that, in H1 2023, our key performance indicators highlighted our strongest performance to date in this area with both the accident frequency rate and accident severity indices at unprecedented low levels of 0.84 and 32, respectively. We are particularly pleased to report that during the construction phase at Mara Rosa, we performed over three million hours without any lost time accidents and that at both our Pallancata and San Jose operations we have surpassed two million hours without lost time accidents.

 

Our safety performance is matched by our environmental management during this first half with our ECO Score ending the period at 5.89 (out of 6), its most robust level since the implementation of this internally-designed KPI. This demonstrates not only proactivity and sound operational credentials but also a positive outcome of internal audits and regulatory inspections.

 

We are always looking for ways to improve our engagement with our local communities and so, to achieve this, during the first half we have reviewed, and are in the process of implementing, a reorganised social relations team with a continued focus on support and collaboration. In addition, in the first half, we held training sessions as part of our focus on promoting economic development through the Impulso Productivo ('Boosting Productivity') and "Orgullo Pecuario ('Pride in our Livestock') programmes for local farmers and livestock keepers. Additionally, we have been supporting local farmers in their sales by partnering with Sodexo.

 

Finally, in the area of education, we launched courses in our five Digital Centres in Peru in conjunction with local educational institutions under the Conexion Futuro programme ('Future Connection'). Workshops and motivational talks were also conducted for secondary school students in our communities, thanks to the Aprender para Triunfar programme ('Learn to Succeed').

 

Operations

Hochschild's production in the first half was, as expected, impacted by the delay in securing the approval of the MEIA, which had a knock-on effect on development at the mine. Overall attributable production was 136,878 gold equivalent ounces (11.4 million silver equivalent ounces), which was lower than the first half of 2022 due to the permit delay, as well as the expected lower production at Pallancata. Production in the period was at an all-in sustaining cost ("AISC") of $1,572 per gold equivalent ounce ($18.9 per silver equivalent ounce). Inmaculada otherwise had a solid half with production of 92,856 gold equivalent ounces (H1 2022: 106,584 ounces) and AISC at $1,272 per gold equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $1,074 per ounce).

 

Pallancata's current mining area is almost depleted, and grades and tonnage, as expected, continued to decline in the first half of the year. Output was 1.2 million silver equivalent ounces (H1 2022: 1.6 million ounces) with the mine's AISC unsurprisingly high at $31.7 per silver equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $32.3 per ounce). The Company's plan is to place Pallancata on care and maintenance in Q4 2023.

 

In Argentina, mine sequencing and the annual holidays impacted the first quarter but the second quarter was much stronger, leading to production of 4.9 million silver equivalent ounces in the first half (H1 2022: 5.1 million ounces). AISC was $21.5 per silver equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $21.2 per ounce).

 

Overall, I am proud of our team's fantastic work, which has delivered operational efficiencies and cost savings to mitigate the impact of the MEIA delay.

 

Projects

At the Mara Rosa project in the state of Goias in Brazil, we have made excellent progress in the first half of the year and are now at 92% total completion with all key equipment in place and all civil works complete and mechanical assembly advanced to 70% completion. We have also made good progress with pre-stripping and preparations for the operational permit. I am pleased to say that we remain on track for first production in the first half of next year and will provide regular progress updates over the final few months of construction.

 

Exploration

Our brownfield exploration programme for 2023 was also affected by the MEIA delay and has only recently re-started in Peru. Plans are underway to drill 10,000 metres at Inmaculada to identify additional high-grade resources in the Eduardo and San Salvador belts. With respect to our exciting Royropata discovery in Pallancata, where over 50 million ounces of high-grade silver were discovered in 2022 in veins with average widths of 5 metres, we have applied for the requisite permit to drill for additional resources. In Argentina, the team is targeting further potential resource drilling in the area surrounding our operations.

 

Financial results

Financial results reflect the difficult operating environment experienced in H1 2023, which we expect to improve in H2. Both silver and gold production were lower, as guided, versus H1 2022 and therefore, despite a 4% rise in the average gold price achieved, revenue decreased by 10% to $314.0 million (H1 2022: $347.8 million). AISC was $1,572 per gold equivalent ounce (H2 2022: $1,466 per ounce) with the rise reflecting the impact of the MEIA delay at Inmaculada, expected lower production at Pallancata and lower grades at San Jose. Adjusted EBITDA of $99.5 million (H1 2022: $130.5 million) mostly reflects the decreased production levels and increased costs whilst pre-exceptional loss per share was $0.004 (H1 2022: $0.01 earnings per share). Post-exceptional loss per share was $0.09 (H1 2022: $0.01).

 

Financial position

Following receipt of the MEIA, the Company is in a good position to fund the remaining capital expenditure at Mara Rosa which we expect to amount to $54 million in H2. Cash and cash equivalents was $93.6 million at the end of June (31 December 2022: $143.8 million) and net debt was $227.1 million (31 December 2022: $175.1 million). In December 2022, Hochschild closed a $200 million committed medium-term loan facility, which will provide funding to complete the construction of Mara Rosa and amortise our existing debt facilities, as well as for other corporate uses. We have also taken additional steps to ensure future cashflow certainty from the low-cost Mara Rosa project and have hedged additional ounces in Brazil for the next few years at highly competitive gold prices. This gives us financial flexibility to repay debt and continue to invest in our growth strategy.

 

Outlook

The MEIA delay has, as expected, impacted several of our 2023 operational and investment plans. We have therefore modified our production and cost guidance for the year at Inmaculada and at San Jose, where we have taken the decision to accelerate some 2024 mine development plans. The second half will also feature the final stages of investment in Mara Rosa as well as the restarting of our brownfield exploration programme in Peru, which will continue into 2024.

 

As we enter this new exciting phase for the Company, we look forward to presenting our long-term strategic plans and showcasing our future exploration opportunities at a Capital Markets Event on 22 November 2023.

 

I would like to express my gratitude to all stakeholders for their ongoing support in what has been a prolonged period of uncertainty for the Company. We are, however, entering a new phase with renewed impetus, and we are looking forward to a busy second half of construction and exploration while maintaining the very highest levels of safety, ethics and community support as we work to deliver on our commitments to all stakeholders.


OPERATING REVIEW

OPERATIONS

Note: All 2023 and 2022 silver/gold equivalent production figures assume a gold/silver ratio of 83:1.

 

Production

In H1 2023, Hochschild delivered attributable production of 136,878 gold equivalent ounces or 11.4 million silver equivalent ounces (on an attributable basis), with the decrease versus the same period of 2022 resulting from mine development of Inmaculada being temporarily impacted by the delay in the approval of the MEIA, as well as expected planned lower production at Inmaculada and Pallancata.

 

Total group production

 

Six months to

 30 June 2023

Six months to                                                                         30 June 2022

Silver production (koz)

5,393

6,105

Gold production (koz)

100.55

113.94

Total silver equivalent (koz)

13,739

15,562

Total gold equivalent (koz)

165.53

187.50

Silver sold (koz)

5,425

6,045

Gold sold (koz)

99.79

112.70

Total production includes 100% of all production, including production attributable to Hochschild's minority shareholder at San Jose.

 

Attributable group production

 

Six months to

 30 June 2023

Six months to                                                                         30 June 2022

Silver production (koz)

4,442

5,065

Gold production (koz)

83.36

96.36

Silver equivalent (koz)

11,361

13,063

Gold equivalent (koz)

136.88

157.38

Attributable production includes 100% of all production from Inmaculada and Pallancata and 51% from San Jose.

 

The delay in the approval of the Inmaculada MEIA has, as expected, temporarily impacted the mine plan for 2023 at the operation and resulted in a modification to the production and cost forecasts for 2023. In addition, the Company has taken the decision to accelerate some 2024 mine development plans at San Jose into the second half of 2023 and therefore this has temporarily increased capital expenditure at the operation. The revised guidance for 2023 is as follows:

 

Revised attributable 2023 Production forecast split

Operation

Oz Au Eq

Moz Ag Eq

Inmaculada

192,000-200,000

16.0-16.5

Pallancata

24,000-27,000

2.0-2.2

San Jose

73,000-76,000

6.0-6.3

Total

289,000-303,000

24.0-25.0

 

Costs

AISC from operations in H1 2023 was $1,572 per gold equivalent ounce or $18.9 per silver equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $1,466 per gold equivalent ounce or $17.7 per silver equivalent ounce), higher than H1 2022 mainly due to lower tonnage at Inmaculada and lower grades at San Jose, partially offset by higher grades at Inmaculada.

 

The all-in sustaining cost from operations for 2023 is revised to between $1,490 and $1,580 per gold equivalent ounce (or $18.0 and $19.0 per silver equivalent ounce). This incorporates an additional provision of $4.1 million for brownfield exploration at Inmaculada and San Jose.

 

Revised 2023 AISC forecast split

Operation

$/oz Au Eq

$/oz Ag Eq

Inmaculada

1,330-1,380

16.0-16.6

Pallancata

2,175-2,390

26.2-28.8

San Jose

1,610-1,690

19.4-20.4

Total from operations

1,490-1,580

18.0-19.0

 

 

Inmaculada

The 100% owned Inmaculada gold/silver underground operation is located in the Region of Ayacucho in southern Peru. It commenced operations in 2015.

 

Inmaculada summary 

 Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

% change

Ore production (tonnes)

535,905

657,202

(18)

Average silver grade (g/t)

178

145

23

Average gold grade (g/t)

3.85

3.61

7

Silver produced (koz)

2,573

2,815

(9)

Gold produced (koz)

61.85

72.67

(15)

Silver equivalent produced (koz)

7,707

8,846

(13)

Gold equivalent produced (koz)

92.86

106.58

(13)

Silver sold (koz)

2,561

2,805

(9)

Gold sold (koz)

61.39

72.72

(16)

Unit cost ($/t)

140.5

111.8

26

Total cash cost ($/oz Au co-product)

808

679

19

All-in sustaining cost ($/oz Au Eq)

1,272

1,074

18

 

Production                    

Inmaculada's first half production was 61,852 ounces of gold and 2.6 million ounces of silver, which amounts to a gold equivalent output of 92,856 ounces (H1 2022: 106,584 ounces),with the reduction versus    H1 2022, as expected, due to the ongoing delays in the decision on the MEIA impacting mine development although this was partially offset by higher grades.

 

Costs

AISC was $1,272 per gold equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $1,074 per ounce). The increase versus the same period of 2022 is mainly due to deferred mine development resulting from the MEIA delay, which caused decreased tonnage although this was partially offset by higher grades. The result was better than originally budgeted for the period due to temporary lower capex.

 

Pallancata

The 100% owned Pallancata silver/gold property is located in the Region of Ayacucho in southern Peru. Pallancata commenced production in 2007. Ore from Pallancata is transported 22km to the Selene plant for processing.

 

Pallancata summary 

 Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

% change

Ore production (tonnes)

239,624

259,058

(8)

Average silver grade (g/t)

137

159

(14)

Average gold grade (g/t)

0.55

0.72

(24)

Silver produced (koz)

879

1,167

(25)

Gold produced (koz)

3.61

5.39

(33)

Silver equivalent produced (koz)

1,179

1,615

(27)

Gold equivalent produced (koz)

14.20

19.46

(27)

Silver sold (koz)

923

1,161

(20)

Gold sold (koz)

3.75

5.36

(30)

Unit cost ($/t)

133.8

137.4

(3)

Total cash cost ($/oz Ag co-product)

28.9

24.0

20

All-in sustaining cost ($/oz Ag Eq)

31.7

32.3

(2)

 

Production

In H1 2023, Pallancata's output was 1.2 million silver equivalent ounces (H1 2022: 1.6 million ounces) with reduced tonnage and grades versus H1 2022 in line with the current declining production profile.

 

Costs

AISC was $31.7 per silver equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $32.3 per ounce).  Costs were slightly lower than H1 2022 as lower tonnage and lower grades were offset by substantially lower exploration capex versus the same period of last year.

 

San Jose

The San Jose silver/gold mine is located in Argentina, in the province of Santa Cruz, 1,750km southwest of Buenos Aires. San Jose commenced production in 2007. Hochschild holds a controlling interest of 51% in the mine and is the mine operator. The remaining 49% interest is owned by  McEwen Mining Inc.

 

San Jose summary 

 Six months to                                                               30 June 2023

Six months to                                                                         30 June 2022

% change

Ore production (tonnes)

272,063

205,359

32

Average silver grade (g/t)

254

365

(30)

Average gold grade (g/t)

4.68

6.19

(24)

Silver produced (koz)

1,941

2,123

(9)

Gold produced (koz)

35.09

35.88

(2)

Silver equivalent produced (koz)

4,854

5,101

(5)

Gold equivalent produced (koz)

58.48

61.46

(5)

Silver sold (koz)

1,941

2,080

(7)

Gold sold (koz)

34.66

34.62

-

Unit cost ($/t)

270.1

309.6

(13)

Total cash cost ($/oz Ag co-product)

15.9

13.7

16

All-in sustaining cost ($/oz Au Eq)

21.5

21.2

1

 

Production

The first half at San Jose in Argentina is traditionally a shorter operational period due to the scheduled hourly workers' holiday, which occurs in the first quarter. Mine sequencing also affected production earlier on in the year but the operation delivered a stronger second quarter with improved grades resulting in the H1 total of 4.9 million silver equivalent ounces (H1 2022: 5.1 million ounces).

 

Costs

AISC was $21.5 per silver equivalent ounce (H1 2022: $21.2 per ounce), in line with the same period of 2022. The effect of lower grades was offset by higher tonnage, lower capex and local currency devaluation.

 

ADVANCED PROJECT: MARA ROSA

The Mara Rosa project is progressing according to schedule and budget with total project progress now standing at 92% and with the Company continuing to expect first production in H1 2024.

 

Procurement

Currently purchase orders have been issued for 99% of the project. Deliveries are on schedule with key equipment received including the crusher, belt conveyors, the secondary substation, electrocentres, filters, HDPE piping, aluminium cables for the transmission lines, hydrocyclones, agitators, wastewater treatment station, thickeners and the ball mills. In addition, the drilling service contract was signed during the period and the contractor is already mobilised.

 

Mine and Pre-Stripping:

The pre-stripping contractor has begun blasting work and 365kt of ore has already moved according to schedule. The target is to guarantee a stockpile for use during the plant ramp-up period. Construction of the waste dumps and ore stockpiles is also underway.

 

Civil works

Civil works in the processing plant area is completed. Assembly work is advancing on schedule; total advance is 70%.

 

Infrastructure assembly

The Electromechanical assembly contractor has been mobilised, and the work is advancing in line with schedule at 70% progress. The commissioning of the dry circuit, including crushing, screening and belt conveyor areas is expected towards the end of Q3. Power supply for the mine is being provided by the building of a 67km, 138kv transmission line from the Porangatu substation with work currently 99% advanced and expected to be completed very shortly.

 

Earthworks

The water reservoir is fully operational and already at 95% of storage capacity with water from the pit area whilst dry stacking construction started during the quarter and is expected to finish in the fourth quarter.

 

Permitting

Operations licences for the 138kv powerline, main substation, and dry and wet circuits were submmited to local authorities. The company received the operation permit for the Powerline and expects to receive the operaitons license of the dry circuit in the third quarter.

 

Sustainability

Environmental controls to monitor construction work have been implemented to ensure compliance with applicable permits. ESG programmes are advancing as expected with almost 900 people having visited the "knowledge trail" as of June 2023. On 5 June, the trail received the "Goiás Sustainability Award" in the Innovation, Science and Education category.

 

During May, the project hosted over 70 stakeholders including local mayors, politicians and community members, who inspected the site progress and gave some very positive feedback. Also in May, the team helped to promote "Traffic Week" involving 2,600 people from schools in Mara Rosa as well as on the main street in Mara Rosa itself. Monthly newsletters covering project progress and sustainability initiatives are continuing to be distributed to local communities.

 

Health and Safety

Hochschild's health and safety corporate standards have been implemented at the project, including the introduction of the Company's Seguscore safety indicator. The project has recently surpassed three million injury-free working hours and year-to-date Frequency and Severity Indexes are currently at zero.

 

DEVELOPMENT PROJECT: VOLCAN

On 10 August, Hochschild issued an update on the Volcan Gold Project ("Volcan") which detailed a number of key milestones that have been achieved at the 100%-owned project (the "Project") located in the Maricunga Region of Chile: 

§ Created a new Canadian Company, Tiernan Gold Corp ("Tiernan"), as a subsidiary of Hochschild Mine Holdings UK

§ Restructured the Project to be owned by Tiernan

§ Completed an updated Mineral Resource Estimate to Canadian NI 43-101 standards, which outlined:

463.3 Mt of Measured and Indicated Resources at 0.66 g/t gold for 9.8 million ounces of gold contained

75.0 Mt of Inferred Resources at 0.516 g/t gold for and additional 1.2 million ounces of gold contained

§ Completed a positive Preliminary Economic Assessment to Canadian NI 43-101 standards, which highlighted:

22mtpa open-pit, heap leach operation with a 14 year mine life

Average of 332,000 ounces per year of gold production for first 10 years of operations with 3.8 million ounces produced over the estimated mine life

Initial capital cost of $900 million, with life of mine sustaining capital an additional $276 million

Cash costs of $921/oz and All-in-Sustaining-Costs of $1,002/oz, life of mine

NPV (5%) = $826 million and IRR = 21% at $1,800/oz gold price, after-tax

§ Executed an agreement for a $15 million financing with the sale of a new 1.5% NSR royalty on the Project to Franco-Nevada

§ Engaged Canaccord Genuity to evaluate strategic alternatives for Tiernan

Further details can be found in the separate press release on the Company's website at hochschildmining.com

 

BROWNFIELD EXPLORATION

Following the approval of the Inmaculada's MEIA, the brownfield team is planning to drill 10,000m at the deposit to target high-grade structures in the Eduardo and San Salvador belts. Resources are expected to be added by the end of the first quarter of 2024.

 

At Pallancata, geological mapping is being completed on the western side west of the new Royropata belt with the team also close to completing a geological model for the Bolsa target in the same area. Permitting for the next drilling campaign is expected in the second quarter of 2024.

 

Finally, 5,000m of drilling is planned close to operations at San Jose with completion again expected towards the end of the first quarter of 2024.


FINANCIAL REVIEW

The reporting currency of Hochschild Mining PLC is U.S. dollars. In discussions of financial performance, the Group removes the effect of exceptional items, unless otherwise indicated, and in the income statement results are shown both pre and post such exceptional items. Exceptional items are those items, which due to their nature or the expected infrequency of the events giving rise to them, need to be disclosed separately on the face of the income statement to enable a better understanding of the financial performance of the Group and to facilitate comparison with prior periods.

 

Revenue

Gross revenue[8]

Gross revenue from continuing operations decreased by 9% to $321.9 million in H1 2023 (H1 2022: $355.0 million) due to lower silver and gold production. Output was mainly impacted by the delay in the approval of the MEIA at Inmaculada and scheduled lower production at Inmaculada and Pallancata. This was partially offset by higher average realised gold prices.

 

On 10 November 2021, the Group hedged 3.3 million ounces of 2023 silver production at US$25 per ounce, and on 20 April 2023 the Group hedged 29,250 ounces of 2023 gold production at US$2,047 per ounce. As of June 2023, 1.65 million silver ounces (H1 2022: 2.0 million) were priced at US$25 per ounce (H1 2022: US$27), and 9,750 gold ounces (H1 2022: nil) were priced at US$2,047 per ounce, boosting the realised price.

 

On 12 April 2023, the Group hedged 27,600 ounces of 2024 gold production at US$2,100 per ounce and on 19 June 2023, the Group hedged 150,000 ounces of 2025, 2026 and 2027 gold production at US$2,117, US$2,167 and US$2,206 per ounce, respectively.

 

Gold

Gross revenue from gold in H1 2023 decreased to $195.3 million (H1 2022: $211.3 million) due to lower gold produced across all operations. This was partially offset by a 4% increase in the average realised gold price.

 

Silver

Gross revenue decreased in H1 2023 to $126.3 million (H1 2022: $143.4 million) due to lower silver produced across all operations and a 2% decrease in the average realised silver price.

 

Gross average realised sales prices

The following table provides figures for average realised prices (before the deduction of commercial discounts) and ounces sold for H1 2023 and H1 2022:

 

Average realised prices

Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

 

Gold ounces sold (koz)

99.79

112.70

 

Avg. realized gold price ($/oz)

1,957

1,875

 

Silver ounces sold (koz)

5,425

6,045

 

Avg. realized silver price ($/oz)

23.3

23.7


 

Commercial discounts

Commercial discounts refer to refinery treatment charges, refining fees and payable deductions for processing concentrate, and are deducted from gross revenue on a per tonne basis (treatment charge), per ounce basis (refining fees) or as a percentage of gross revenue (payable deductions). In H1 2023, the Group recorded commercial discounts of $7.8 million (H1 2022: $7.2 million). The ratio of commercial discounts to gross revenue in H1 2023 was 2.4% (H1 2022: 2.0%).

 

Net revenue

Net revenue was $314.0 million (H1 2022: $347.8 million), comprising net gold revenue of $192.1 million (H1 2022: $208.7 million) and net silver revenue of $121.6 million (H1 2022: $138.8 million). In H1 2023, gold accounted for 61% and silver for 39% of the Company's consolidated net revenue (H1 2022: gold 60% and silver 40%).

 

Reconciliation of gross revenue by mine to Group net revenue

$000

Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

% change

Gold revenue

 



Inmaculada

118,764

135,893

(13)

Pallancata

7,488

10,084

(26)

San Jose

69,031

65,343

6

Commercial discounts from concentrates

(3,159)

(2,655)

19

Net gold revenue

192,124

208,665

(8)

Silver revenue

 



Inmaculada

60,047

68,303

(12)

Pallancata

21,650

28,920

(25)

San Jose

44,621

46,154

(3)

Commercial discounts from concentrates

(4,684)

(4,561)

3

Net silver revenue

121,634

138,816

(12)

Other revenue

265

300

12

Net revenue

314,023

347,781

(10)

 

Costs

Total cost of sales before exceptional items was $250.9 million in H1 2023 (H1 2022: $240.5 million). The direct production cost excluding depreciation was lower at $170.1 million (H1 2022: $174.0 million) mainly due to lower production in Inmaculada and Pallancata, partially offset by a scheduled higher proportion of conventional mining methods across all mining units, and inflation. Depreciation in production cost increased to $71.9 million (H1 2022: $68.8 million) mainly due to the impact of the reversal in impairment loss at Pallancata of $15.5 million as at 31 December 2022, partially offset by lower depreciation in Inmaculada due to lower production.  Fixed costs incurred during total or partial production stoppages were $3.0 million in H1 2023 (H1 2022: $3.9 million). Decrease in inventories was $4.7 million in H1 2023 (H1 2022: increase in inventories of $8.2 million) due to higher consumption of products in process across all operations.

 

$000

Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

% change

Direct production cost excluding depreciation

170,072

174,001

(2)

Depreciation in production cost

71,904

68,801

5

Other items and workers profit sharing

1,173

2,046

(43)

Fixed costs during operational stoppages and reduced capacity

3,005

3,870

(22)

Change in inventories

4,716

(8,202)

(157)

Cost of sales

250,870

240,516

4

 

Fixed costs during operational stoppages and reduced capacity:

$000

Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

% change

Personnel

2,410

2,292

5

Third party services

1,030

1,495

(31)

Supplies

34

5

580

Depreciation and amortisation

-

2

-

Others

(469)

76

(717)

Cost of sales

3,005

3,870

(22)

 

Unit cost per tonne

The Company reported unit cost per tonne at its operations of $170.6 per tonne in H1 2023, a 9% increase versus H1 2022 ($156.6 per tonne). This was due to the effect of: higher costs resulting from lower treated tonnage in Inmaculada and Pallancata, a scheduled higher proportion of conventional mining methods across all mining units, and inflation.

 

Unit cost per tonne by operation (including royalties)[9]:

Operating unit ($/tonne)

Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

% change

Peru

138.3

119.4

16

Inmaculada

140.5

111.8

26

Pallancata

133.8

137.4

(3)

Argentina

 



San Jose

270.1

309.6

(13)

Total

170.6

156.6

9

 

Cash costs

Cash costs include cost of sales, commercial deductions and selling expenses before exceptional items, less depreciation included in cost of sales.

 

Cash cost reconciliation[10]

Six months to 30 June 2023

$000 unless otherwise indicated

Inmaculada

Pallancata

San Jose

Total

Group cash cost

74,717

36,160

79,893

190,770

(+) Cost of sales[11]

110,688

45,374

91,047

247,109

(-) Depreciation and amortisation in cost of sales

(37,677)

(11,588)

(23,440)

(72,705)

(+) Selling expenses

230

249

6,415

6,894

(+) Commercial deductions[12]

1,476

2,125

5,871

9,472

Gold

994

406

2,846

4,246

Silver

482

1,719

3,025

5,226

Revenue

178,811

27,013

107,934

313,758

Gold

118,764

7,082

66,278

192,124

Silver

60,047

19,931

41,656

121,634

Ounces sold

 

 

 


Gold

61.4

3.7

34.7

99.8

Silver

2,561.1

923.2

1,940.7

5,425.0

Group cash cost ($/oz)





Co product Au

808

2,531

1,416

1,171

Co product Ag

9.8

28.9

15.89

13.63

By product Au

231

3,874

1,016

640

By product Ag

(17.59)

31.06

5.55

(1.03)

 

Six months to 30 June 2022

$000 unless otherwise indicated

Inmaculada

Pallancata

San Jose

Total

Group cash cost

74,152

37,802

70,021

181,975

(+) Cost of sales[13]

112,680

43,848

77,710

234,238

(-) Depreciation and amortisation in cost of sales

(40,193)

(8,754)

(18,786)

(67,733)

(+) Selling expenses

322

242

6,163

6,727

(+) Commercial deductions[14]

1,343

2,466

4,934

8,743

Gold

1,007

490

2,272

3,769

Silver

336

1,976

2,662

4,974

Revenue

204,196

36,538

106,747

347,781

Gold

135,893

9,594

63,178

208,665

Silver

68,303

26,944

43,569

138,816

Others

-

-

-

300

Ounces sold

 

 

 


Gold

72.7

5.4

34.6

112.7

Silver

2,805

1,160

2,080

6,045

Group cash cost ($/oz)





Co product Au

679

1,853

1,197

970

Co product Ag

8.8

24.0

13.7

12.0

By product Au

76

1,658

687

395

By product Ag

(22.4)

23.9

2.2

(5)

                       

Co-product cash cost per ounce is the cash cost allocated to the primary metal (allocation based on proportion of revenue), divided by the ounces sold of the primary metal. By-product cash cost per ounce is the total cash cost minus revenue and commercial discounts of the by-product divided by the ounces sold of the primary metal.

 

All-in sustaining cost reconciliation[15]

All-in sustaining cash costs per silver equivalent ounce

 

Six months to 30 June 2023

$000 unless otherwise indicated

Inmaculada

Pallancata

San Jose

Main operations

Corporate & others

Total

(+) Direct production cost excluding depreciation

 73,869

 31,163

 65,040

 170,072

 -  

 170,072

(+) Other items and workers profit sharing in cost of sales

 732

 441

 -  

 1,173

 -  

 1,173

(+) Operating and exploration capex for units

 37,642

 2,384

 20,197

 60,223

 61

 60,284

(+) Brownfield exploration expenses

 368

 591

 4,213

 5,172

 1,446

 6,618

(+) Administrative expenses (excl. depreciation)

 1,950

 291

 2,744

 4,985

 14,981

 19,966

(+) Royalties and special mining tax[16]

 1,850

 280

-

 2,130

 618

 2,748

Sub-total

 116,411

 35,150

 92,194

 243,755

 17,106

 260,861

Au ounces produced

61,852

3,607

35,095

100,554

 -  

100,554

Ag ounces produced (000s)

2,573

879

1,941

5,393

 -  

5,393

Ounces produced (Ag Eq 000s oz)

7,707

1,179

4,854

13,740

 -  

13,740

Sub-total ($/oz Ag Eq)

15.1

29.8

19.0

17.7

1.2

18.9

(+) Commercial deductions

1,476

2,125

5,871

9,472

-

9,472

(+) Selling expenses

230

249

6,415

6,894

-

6,894

Sub-total

1,706

2,374

12,286

16,366

-

16,366

Au ounces sold

61,389

3,746

34,656

99,791

-

99,791

Ag ounces sold (000s)

2,561

923

1,941

5,425

-

5,425

Ounces sold (Ag Eq 000s oz)

7,656

1,234

4,817

13,707

-

13,707

Sub-total ($/oz Ag Eq)

 0.2

 1.9

 2.5

 1.2

 -  

 1.2

All-in sustaining costs ($/oz Ag Eq)

 15.3

 31.7

 21.5

 18.9

 1.2

 20.1

All-in sustaining costs ($/oz Au Eq)[17]

 1,272

 2,635

 1,788

 1,572

 103

 1,675

 


Six months to 30 June 2022

$000 unless otherwise indicated

Inmaculada

Pallancata

San Jose

Main operations

Corporate & others

Total

(+) Direct production cost excluding depreciation[18]

71,851

35,846

66,304

174,001

-

174,001

(+) Other items and workers profit sharing in cost of sales

1,095

951

-

2,046

-

2,046

(+) Operating and exploration capex for units

34,013

8,236

23,324

65,573

356

65,929

(+) Brownfield exploration expenses

1,618

3,714

4,324

9,656

1,794

11,450

(+) Administrative expenses (excl. depreciation)

2,151

385

3,012

5,548

18,501

24,049

(+) Royalties and special mining tax[19]

2,099

376

-

2,475

1,532

4,007

Sub-total

112,827

49,508

96,964

259,299

22,183

281,482

Au ounces produced

72,666

5,394

35,883

113,943

 -  

113,943

Ag ounces produced (000s)

2,815

1,167

2,123

6,105

 -  

6,105

Ounces produced (Ag Eq 000s oz)

8,846

1,615

5,101

15,562

 -  

15,562

Sub-total ($/oz Ag Eq)

12.8

30.7

19.0

16.7

1.4

18.1

(+) Commercial deductions

1,343

2,466

4,934

8,743

-

8,743

(+) Selling expenses

322

242

6,163

6,727

-

6,727

Sub-total

1,665

2,708

11,097

15,470

-

15,470

Au ounces sold

72,718

5,357

34,622

112,696

-

112,696

Ag ounces sold (000s)

2,805

1,161

2,080

6,046

-

6,046

Ounces sold (Ag Eq 000s oz)

8,840

1,605

4,953

15,398

-

15,398

Sub-total ($/oz Ag Eq)

0.1

1.6

2.2

1.0

-

1.0

All-in sustaining costs ($/oz Ag Eq)

12.9

32.3

21.2

17.7

1.4

19.1

All-in sustaining costs ($/oz Au Eq)[20]

1,074

2,685

1,764

1,466

119

1,585

 

Administrative expenses

Administrative expenses were down by 16% to $20.9 million (H1 2022: $24.9 million) mainly due to lower bonus provision and professional fees.

 

Exploration expenses

In H1 2023, exploration expenses decreased to $11.5 million (H1 2022: $23.8 million) mainly due lower exploration expenses at the Snip project of $2.3 million (H1 2022: $6.9 million), lower exploration expenses at Pallancata of $0.6 million (H1 2022: $3.7 million), lower personnel expenses of $2.5 million (H1 2022: $3.7 million), and lower exploration expenses at Inmaculada of $0.4 million (H1 2022: $1.6 million). 

 

In addition, the Group capitalises part of its brownfield exploration, which mostly relates to costs incurred converting potential resources to the Inferred or Measured and Indicated categories. In H1 2023, the Company capitalized $0.4 million relating to brownfield exploration (H1 2022: $0.2 million), bringing the total investment in exploration for H1 2022 to $11.9 million (H1 2022: $24.0 million).

 

Selling expenses

Selling expenses slightly increased to $6.9 million (H1 2022: $6.7 million) mainly due to higher gold prices.

 

Other income/expenses

Other income was $4.9 million (H1 2022: $2.6 million) with the increase mainly due to an insurance reimbursement received in H1 2023 in connection with damage to Inmaculada's machine belt in 2022.

 

Other expenses before exceptional items were $12.8 million (H1 2022: $22.9 million) with the decrease mainly due to: lower additions to the provision for mine closure of $1.3 million (H1 2022: $10.8 million), a decrease in care and maintenance costs of $3.2 million (H1 2022: $4.2 million), expenses from a voluntary redundancy programme in Argentina incurred in H1 2022 of $0.9 million, and lower labour contingencies in Argentina of $1.0 million (2022: $1.7 million). These were partially offset by a provision for obsolescence of supplies of $1.7 million (H1 2022: $nil).

 

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 24% to $99.5 million (H1 2022: $130.5 million) mainly due to the fall in revenue resulting from lower silver and gold production.

 

Adjusted EBITDA is calculated as profit from continuing operations before exceptional items, net finance costs, foreign exchange losses and income tax plus non-cash items (depreciation and amortisation and changes in mine closure provisions) and exploration expenses other than personnel and other exploration related fixed expenses.

 

$000 unless otherwise indicated

Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

% change

Profit from continuing operations before exceptional items, net finance income/(cost), foreign exchange loss and income tax

14,222

29,413

(52)

Depreciation and amortisation in cost of sales

72,705

67,735

7

Depreciation and amortisation in administrative and other expenses

978

915

7

Exploration expenses

11,515

23,826

(52)

Personnel and other exploration related fixed expenses

(2,922)

(4,227)

(31)

Other non-cash income, net [21]

2,999

12,863

(77)

Adjusted EBITDA

99,497

130,525

(24)

Adjusted EBITDA margin

32%

38%

(16)

 

Finance income

Finance income was $2.6 million (H1 2022: $2.2 million), mainly due to higher interest on deposits of $2.3 million (H1 2022: $0.6 million) resulting from the rise in interest rates, partially offset by the gain on the unwinding of discount of the mine closure provision of $1.1 million in H1 2022. 

 

Finance costs

Finance costs decreased from $13.1 million in H1 2022 to $11.0 million in H1 2023, principally due to foreign exchange transaction costs to acquire dollars in Argentina in H1 2022 of $2.8 million, a loss on the sale of C3 Metals Inc. shares of $0.3 million in H1 2023 (H1 2022: recorded a loss on the fair value of C3 Metals Inc. shares of $2.3 million), partially offset by higher interest expenses, which totalled $8.6 million in H1 2023 (H1 2022: $6.3 million), mainly explained by higher interest rates,

 

Foreign exchange losses

The Group recognized a foreign exchange loss of $4.3 million (H1 2022: $2.6 million) as a result of exposures in currencies other than the functional currency, mainly in Argentina of $3.8 million (H1 2022: $0.1 million), and Peru of $0.5 million (H1 2022: $3.0 million).

 

Income tax

The Company's pre-exceptional income tax charge was $5.1 million (H1 2022: $5.8 million) and includes royalties and special mining tax of $2.7 million (H1 2022: $4.0 million), and the foreign exchange effect on deferred income tax of $1.9 million (H1 2022: credit of $5.6 million).

 

Exceptional items

Exceptional items in H1 2023 totalled a $48.3 million loss after tax (H1 2022: $9.9 million loss after tax) related to impairment losses at: the Azuca and Crespo projects of $42.3 million; the San Jose mining unit of $17.4 million;  and the investment in Aclara Resources Inc. of $7.2 million.

 

The tax effect of the exceptional items was a tax gain of $18.6 million (H1 2022: $nil). The total effective tax rate was 20.3% (2022: 107.8%).

 

Cash flow and balance sheet review         

Cash flow

$000

Six months to

30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

Change

Net cash generated from operating activities

86,374

18,658

363

Net cash used in investing activities

(134,448)

(199,172)

(32)

Cash flows generated (used in)/from financing activities

(178)

306

(158)

Foreign exchange adjustment

(2,014)

(2,257)

(11)

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents during the period

(50,266)

(182,465)

(72)

 

Net cash generated from operating activities increased from $18.7 million in H1 2022 to $86.4 million in H1 2023 mainly due to higher cash inflows from working capital changes and lower taxes paid; partially offset by lower Adjusted EBITDA.

 

Net cash used in investing activities decreased to $134.4 million in H1 2023 from $199.2 million in H1 2022 mainly due to the consideration paid for the acquisition of Amarillo Gold on 1 April 2022 of $123.4 million, partially offset by higher construction capex in Mara Rosa of $64.6 million (H1 2022: $10.1 million).

 

Cash generated (used in)/from financing activities changed to an outflow of $0.2 million from an inflow of $0.3 million in H1 2022 mainly due to the net effect of: (i) repayment of pre-shipment loans of $11.7 million (H1 2022: $nil), (ii) pre-shipment loans raised of $12.6 million (H1 2022: $13.4 million), and (iii) payment of $12.0 million in dividends to shareholders in H1 2022.


 

Working capital

$000

As at

30 June 2023

As at

31 December 2022

Trade and other receivables

79,583

85,408

Inventories

51,000

61,440

Derivative financial assets/(liabilities)

5,679

2,186

Income tax payable, net

4,410

7,100

Trade and other payables

(136,407)

(144,102)

Provisions

(20,098)

(24,177)

Working capital

(15,833)

(12,145)

 

The Group's working capital position in H1 2023 decreased by $3.7 million from $(12.1) million to $(15.8) million. The key drivers of the decrease were lower inventories of $10.4 million partially offset by lower trade and other payables of $7.7 million.

 

Net cash/ (debt)

$000 unless otherwise indicated

As at

30 June 2023

As at

31 December 2022

Cash and cash equivalents

93,578

143,844

Non-current borrowings

(224,999)

(275,000)

Current borrowings[22]

(95,633)

(43,989)

Net cash/(debt)

(227,054)

(175,145)

 

The Group's reported net debt position was $227.1 million as at 30 June 2023 (31 December 2022: net debt position of $175.1 million). The decrease in cash and cash equivalents in H1 2023 is mainly explained by capital expenditure at Mara Rosa of $64.6 million.

 

Capital expenditure[23]

$000

Six months to#

 30 June 2023

Six months to

30 June 2022

Inmaculada

37,642

34,013

Pallancata

3,108

8,236

San Jose

21,487

24,551

Operations

62,237

66,800

Mara Rosa

64,591

133,516

Aclara

-

-

Other

1,646

2,134

Total

128,474

202,450

 

H1 2023 capital expenditure decreased from $202.5 million in H1 2022 to $128.5 million in H1 2023 mainly to the consideration paid for the acquisition of Amarillo Gold on 1 April 2022 of $123.4 million, partially offset by higher construction capex in Mara Rosa of $64.6 million (H1 2022: $10.1 million).

 

Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures

The Company has included certain non-IFRS measures in this news release. The Company believes that these measures, in addition to conventional measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, provide investors an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. The non-IFRS measures are intended to provide additional information and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS. These measures do not have any standardised meaning prescribed under IFRS, and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers.

 

Forward looking statements

This announcement contains certain forward looking statements, including such statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the US Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. In particular, such forward looking statements may relate to matters such as the business, strategy, investments, production, major projects and their contribution to expected production and other plans of Hochschild Mining PLC and its current goals, assumptions and expectations relating to its future financial condition, performance and results.

 

Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements typically containing words such as "intends", "expects", "anticipates", "targets", "plans", "estimates" and words of similar import. By their nature, forward looking statements involve risks and uncertainties because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that will or may occur in the future. Actual results, performance or achievements of Hochschild Mining PLC may be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to differences between the actual results, performance or achievements of Hochschild Mining PLC and current expectations include, but are not limited to, legislative, fiscal and regulatory developments, competitive conditions, technological developments, exchange rate fluctuations and general economic conditions. The Company cautions against undue reliance on any forward looking statement or guidance, particularly in light of the current economic climate and the significant volatility, uncertainty and disruption caused by Covid-19. Past performance is no guide to future performance and persons needing advice should consult an independent financial adviser.

 

The forward looking statements reflect knowledge and information available at the date of preparation of this announcement. Except as required by the Listing Rules and applicable law, Hochschild Mining PLC does not undertake any obligation to update or change any forward looking statements to reflect events occurring after the date of this announcement. Nothing in this announcement should be construed as a profit forecast.


RISKS

The principal risks and uncertainties facing the Company in respect of the year ended 31 December 2022 are set out in detail in the Risk Management section of the 2022 Annual Report and in Note 38 to the 2022 Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

The key risks disclosed in the 2022 Annual Report (available at www.hochschildmining.com) are categorised as:

 

§ Financial risks comprising commodity price risk, commercial counterparty risk and liquidity risk;

§ Operational risks including the risks associated with operational performance, business interruption/supply chain, information security and cybersecurity, exploration & reserve and resource replacement, personnel and project development;

§ Macro-economic risks which include political, legal and regulatory risks; and

§ Sustainability risks including risks associated with health and safety, environmental, climate change and community relations.

 

With the exception of liquidity risk, which has been mitigated by the approval of the Inmaculada MEIA, the risks referred to above continue to apply to the Company in respect of the remaining six months of the financial year. 

 

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Related party transactions are disclosed in Note 23 to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

GOING CONCERN

After making enquiries, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the duration of the Going Concern Period until 30 September 2024. Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the interim condensed set of financial statements. For further detail, refer to the Going concern disclosure in Note 2 "Significant Accounting Policies" of the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.  

 

STATEMENT OF DIRECTORS' RESPONSIBILITIES

The Directors confirm that, to the best of their knowledge, the interim condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with UK adopted International Accounting Standard 34 "Interim Financial Reporting" and that the interim management report includes a fair review of the information required by Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules 4.2.7R and 4.2.8R.

 

A list of current Directors and their functions is maintained on the Company's website.

 

For and on behalf of the Board

 

Eduardo Landin
Chief Executive Officer

5 September 2023

 

INDEPENDENT REVIEW REPORT TO HOCHSCHILD MINING PLC

Conclusion

We have been engaged by the Company to review the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 30 June 2023, which comprises the interim condensed consolidated income statement, the interim condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income, the interim condensed consolidated statement of financial position, the interim condensed consolidated statement of cash flows, the interim condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity and the related notes 1 to 25. We have read the other information contained in the half yearly financial report and considered whether it contains any apparent misstatements or material inconsistencies with the information in the condensed set of financial statements.

 

Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report for the six months ended 30 June 2023 is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with UK adopted International Accounting Standard 34 and the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.

 

Basis for Conclusion

We conducted our review in accordance with International Standard on Review Engagements 2410 (UK) "Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity" (ISRE) issued by the Financial Reporting Council. A review of interim financial information consists of making enquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) and consequently does not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.

 

As disclosed in note 2, the annual financial statements of the Group are prepared in accordance with UK adopted international accounting standards. The condensed set of financial statements included in this half-yearly financial report has been prepared in accordance with UK adopted International Accounting Standard 34, "Interim Financial Reporting".

 

Conclusions Relating to Going Concern

Based on our review procedures, which are less extensive than those performed in an audit as described in the Basis of Conclusion section of this report, nothing has come to our attention to suggest that management have inappropriately adopted the going concern basis of accounting or that management have identified material uncertainties relating to going concern that are not appropriately disclosed.

 

This conclusion is based on the review procedures performed in accordance with this ISRE, however future events or conditions may cause the entity to cease to continue as a going concern.

 

Responsibilities of the directors

The directors are responsible for preparing the half-yearly financial report in accordance with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules of the United Kingdom's Financial Conduct Authority.

 

In preparing the half-yearly financial report, the directors are responsible for assessing the company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

 

Auditor's Responsibilities for the review of the financial information

In reviewing the half-yearly report, we are responsible for expressing to the Company a conclusion on the condensed set of financial statements in the half-yearly financial report. Our conclusion, including our Conclusions Relating to Going Concern, are based on procedures that are less extensive than audit procedures, as described in the Basis for Conclusion paragraph of this report.

 

Use of our report

This report is made solely to the company in accordance with guidance contained in International Standard on Review Engagements 2410 (UK) "Review of Interim Financial Information Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity" issued by the Financial Reporting Council. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the company, for our work, for this report, or for the conclusions we have formed.

 

Ernst & Young LLP

London

5 September 2023

 

Interim condensed consolidated income statement

 

 


 

 

Six months ended

30 June 2023 (Unaudited)

 

Six months ended

30 June 2022 (Unaudited)


 

 


Notes

 

Before exceptional items US$000


Exceptional items

(Note 10)

US$000


Total     US$000


Before exceptional items US$000


Exceptional items

(Note 10)

US$000


Total     US$000


Continuing operations
















Revenue


5


314,023

 

-

 

314,023

 

347,781


-


347,781

 

Cost of sales


6


(250,870)

 

-

 

(250,870)

 

(240,516)


-


(240,516)

 

Gross profit




63,153

 

-

 

63,153

 

107,265


-


107,265

 

Administrative expenses




(20,884)

 

-

 

(20,884)

 

(24,913)


-


(24,913)

 

Exploration expenses


7


(11,515)

 

-

 

(11,515)

 

(23,826)


-


(23,826)

 

Selling expenses


8


(6,894)

 

-

 

(6,894)

 

(6,727)


-


(6,727)

 

Other income


9


4,863

 

-

 

4,863

 

2,580


-


2,580

 

Other expenses


9


(12,817)

 

-

 

(12,817)

 

(22,902)


-


(22,902)

 

Impairment and write-off of non-financial assets


13


(1,684)

 

(59,719)

 

(61,403)

 

(2,064)


-


(2,064)

 

(Loss)/profit from continuing operations before net finance cost, foreign exchange loss and income tax




14,222

 

(59,719)

 

(45,497)

 

29,413


-


29,413

 

Share of loss of an associate


15


(785)

 

(7,183)


(7,968)

 

(551)


(9,923)


(10,474)

 

Finance income


11


2,628

 

-

 

2,628

 

2,163


-


2,163

 

Finance costs


11


(11,010)

 

-

 

(11,010)

 

(13,083)


-


(13,083)

 

Foreign exchange loss




(4,268)

 

-

 

(4,268)

 

(2,649)


-


(2,649)

 

(Loss)/profit from continuing operations before income tax




787

 

(66,902)

 

(66,115)

 

15,293


(9,923)


5,370

 

Income tax (expense)/benefit


12


(5,144)

 

18,574

 

13,430

 

(5,790)


-


(5,790)

 

(Loss)/profit for the period from continuing operations




(4,357)

 

(48,328)

 

(52,685)

 

9,503


(9,923)


(420)

 

Attributable to:




 

 

 

 

 

 





 

 

Equity shareholders of the parent




(1,927)

 

(42,787)

 

(44,714

)

7,156


(9,923)


(2,767

 

Non-controlling interests




(2,430)

 

(5,541)

 

(7,971)

 

2,347


-


2,347

 





(4,357)

 

(48,328)

 

(52,685)

 

9,503


(9,923)


(420)

 

Basic (loss)/earnings per ordinary share from continuing operations for the period (expressed in U.S. dollars per share)




(0.004)

 

(0.083)


(0.087)

 

0.01


(0.02)


(0.01)

 

Diluted (loss)/earnings per ordinary share from continuing operations for the period (expressed in U.S. dollars per share)




(0.004)

 

(0.081)


(0.085)

 

0.01


(0.02)


(0.01)

 






















 


 

Interim condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income

 



 

 

Six months ended 30 June




Notes

 

2023 (Unaudited) US$000


2022 (Unaudited) US$000


Loss for the period




(52,685)


(420)


Other comprehensive income that might be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods; net of tax:




 




Net gain on cash flow hedges


16


4,113


6,734


Deferred tax charge on cash flow hedges




(1,269)


(1,987)


Exchange differences on translating foreign operations1




22,554


(18,883)


Share of other comprehensive gain/(loss) of an associate


15


1,058


(1,541)






26,456


(15,677)


Other comprehensive income that will not be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods; net of tax:




 




Net loss on equity instruments at fair value through other comprehensive income ("OCI")




(106)


(159)






(106)


(159)


Other comprehensive income/(loss) for the period, net of tax




26,350


(15,836)


Total comprehensive loss for the period




(26,335)


(16,256)


Total comprehensive loss attributable to:




 




Equity shareholders of the parent




(18,364)


(18,603)


Non-controlling interests




(7,971)


2,347


 




(26,335)


(16,256)


1   Foreign exchange effect generated in the Group´s companies when the functional currency is the local currency, mainly generated by the decrease of the US$ exchange rate in Brazil. 

 

 

 

Interim condensed consolidated statement of financial position

 

 

 

 

Notes

 

As at 30
June
2023

 (Unaudited) US$000

 

As at 31
December
2022

 US$000

 

ASSETS








Non-current assets








Property, plant and equipment


13


965,708


926,913


Evaluation and exploration assets


14


101,654


123,462


Intangible assets




19,540


19,328


Investment in an associate


15


26,332


33,242


Financial assets at fair value through OCI


16


403


509


Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss


16


-


1,015


Trade and other receivables




13,147


6,498


Derivative financial assets


16


1,574


-


Deferred income tax assets


17


1,029


4,213






1,129,387


1,115,180


Current assets




 




Inventories




51,000


61,440


Trade and other receivables




79,583


85,408


Derivative financial assets


16


5,679


2,186


Income tax receivable




5,856


9,226


Cash and cash equivalents


18


93,578


143,844


 

 

 

 

235,696

 

302,104


Total assets

 

 

 

1,365,083

 

1,417,284


EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 


Capital and reserves attributable to shareholders of the Parent




 




Equity share capital


21


9,068


9,061


Other reserves




(213,400)


(238,800)


Retained earnings




844,523


886,980






640,191


657,241


Non-controlling interests




57,178


65,475


Total equity




697,369


722,716


Non-current liabilities




 




Trade and other payables




2,849


1,623


Derivative financial liabilities


16


954


-


Borrowings


19


224,999


275,000


Provisions


20


131,420


123,506


Deferred income tax liabilities


17


53,908


80,045






414,130


480,174


Current liabilities




 




Trade and other payables




136,407


144,102


Borrowings


19


95,633


43,989


Provisions


20


20,098


24,177


Income tax payable




1,446


2,126






253,584


214,394


Total liabilities




667,714


694,568


Total equity and liabilities




1,365,083


1,417,284


 

 

Interim condensed consolidated statement of cash flows

 



 

 

Six months ended 30 June


 


Notes

 

2023 (Unaudited) US$000

 

2022 (Unaudited) US$000


Cash flows from operating activities




 




Cash generated from operations


24


99,810


41,208


Interest received




2,333


1,069


Interest paid


19


(11,139)


(3,814)


Payment of mine closure costs




(3,046)


(3,789)


Income tax paid




(1,584)


(16,016)


Net cash generated from operating activities




86,374


18,658


Cash flows from investing activities




 




Purchase of property, plant and equipment




(133,817)


(82,590)


Purchase of evaluation and exploration assets




(1,828)


(113,625)


Purchase of intangibles




(123)


(354)


Purchase of Argentinian bonds


11(2)


-


(6,091)


Proceeds from sale of Argentinian bonds


11(2)


-


3,289


Proceeds from sale of financial assets at fair value though profit and loss




723


-


Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment


13


597


199


Net cash used in investing activities




(134,448)


(199,172)


Cash flows from financing activities




 




Proceeds from borrowings


19


12,560


13,411


Repayment of borrowings


19


(11,682)


-


Payment of lease liabilities




(730)


(821)


Dividends paid to shareholders


22


-


(11,998)


Dividends paid to non-controlling interests


22


(326)


(286)


Cash flows (used in)/generated from financing activities




(178)


306


Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents during the period




(48,252)


(180,208)


Impact of foreign exchange




(2,014)


(2,257)


Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period


18


143,844


386,789


Cash and cash equivalents at end of period


18


93,578


204,324


 


Interim condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other reserves

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


 


Notes

 

Equity

share

capital US$000

 

Share premium US$000

 

 

Dividends expired US$000

 

 

 

 

Unrealised gain/

(loss) on hedges

US$000

 

 

 

Share

of other compre- hensive

loss of an associate US$000

 

Fair value reserve of  financial assets at fair value through OCI US$000

 

Cumulative translation adjustment US$000

 

Merger  reserve US$000

 

Share-based payment reserve US$000

 

Total
other
reserves US$000

 

Retained earnings US$000

 

Capital and reserves attributable to shareholders
of the Parent US$000

 

Non-controlling interests US$000

 

Total equity US$000


 

Balance at 1 January 2023

 

 

 

9061

 

-

 

 

99

 

1,541

 

1,274

 

(78)

 

 

(37,902)

 

(210,046)

 

6,312

 

(238,800)

 

886,980

 

657,241

 

65,475

 

722,716


 

Other comprehensive income/(loss)




-


-



-


2,844


1,058


(106)


 

22,554


-


-


26,350


-


26,350


-


26,350


 

Loss for the period




-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


(44,714)


(44,714)


(7,971)


(52,685)


 

Total comprehensive income/(loss) for the period

 

 

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

2,844

 

1,058

 

(106)

 

 

22,554

 

-

 

-

 

26,350

 

(44,714)

 

(18,364)

 

(7,971)

 

(26,335)


 

Dividends paid to non-controlling interest


22


-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


-


-


(326)


(326)


 

Cancellation of dividends expired




-


-



(99)


-


-


-



-


-


-


(99)


152


53


-


53


 

Exercise of share based payments




7


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


(584)


(584)


577


-


-


-


 

Accrual of share-based payments




-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


1,261


1,261


-


1,261


-


1,261


 

Forfeiture of share options




-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


(1,528)


(1,528)


1,528


-


-


-


 

Balance at 30 June 2023 (unaudited)

 

 

 

9,068

 

-

 

 

-

 

4,385

 

2,332

 

(184)

 

 

(15,348)

 

(210,046)

 

5,461

 

(213,400)

 

844,523

 

640,191

 

57,178

 

697,369


 














 









 












 

Balance at 1 January 2022

 

 

 

226,506

 

438,041

 

 

99

 

13,476

 

(9)

 

74

 

 

(25,163)

 

(210,046)

 

3,912

 

(217,657)

 

248,664

 

695,554

 

63,890

 

759,444


 

Other comprehensive income/(loss)




-


-



-


4,747


(1,541)


(159)


 

(18,883)


-


-


(15,836)


-


(15,836)


-


(15,836)


 

Loss for the period




-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


(2,767)


(2,767)


2,347


(420)


 

Total comprehensive income/(loss) for the period

 

 

 

-

 

-

 

 

-

 

4,747

 

 (1,541)

 

(159)

 

 

(18,883)

 

-

 

-

 

(15,836)

 

(2,767)

 

(18,603)

 

2,347

 

(16,256)


 

Dividends


22


-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


(11,998)


(11,998)


-


(11,998)


 

Dividends paid to non-controlling interest


22


-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


-


-


(286)


(286)


 

Issuance of deferred bonus shares


21


303,268


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


(303,268)


-


-


-


 

Cancelation of deferred bonus shares


21


(303,268)


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


303,268


-


-


-


 

Cancelation of share premium account


21


-


(438,041)



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


438,041


-


-


-


 

Nominal value reduction


21


(217,445)


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


-


-


217,445


-


-


-


 

Accrual of share-based payments




-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


1,187


1,187


-


1,187


-


1,187


 

Forfeiture of share options




-


-



-


-


-


-



-


-


(1,886)


(1,886)


1,886


-


-


-


 

Balance at 30 June 2022 (unaudited)

 

 

 

9,061

 

-

 

 

99

 

18,223

 

(1,550)

 

(85)

 

 

(44,046)

 

(210,046)

 

3,213

 

(234,192)

 

891,271

 

666,140

 

65,951

 

732,091


 






















































 

Notes to the interim condensed consolidated financial statements

 

1 Corporate Information

 

Hochschild Mining PLC (hereinafter the "Company" and together with its subsidiaries, the "Group") is a public limited company incorporated on 11 April 2006 under the Companies Act 1985 as a limited company and registered in England and Wales with registered number 05777693. The Company's registered office is located at 17 Cavendish Square, London W1G 0PH, United Kingdom. Its ordinary shares are traded on the London Stock Exchange.

 

The Group's principal business is the mining, processing and sale of gold and silver. The Group has two operating mines (Pallancata and Inmaculada) located in southern Peru, and one operating mine (San Jose) located in Argentina. The Group also has a portfolio of projects located across Peru, Argentina, Mexico, Brazil and Chile at various stages of development.

 

These interim condensed consolidated financial statements were approved for issue on behalf of the Board of Directors on 5 September 2023.

 

2 Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of preparation

These interim condensed consolidated financial statements set out the Group's financial position as at 30 June 2023 and 31 December 2022 and its financial performance and cash flows for the six months ended 30 June 2023 and 30 June 2022.

 

They have been prepared in accordance with the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority and UK adopted International Accounting Standard 34, "Interim Financial Reporting". Accordingly, the interim condensed consolidated financial statements do not include all the information required for full annual financial statements and therefore, should be read in conjunction with the Group's 2022 annual consolidated financial statements as published in the 2022 Annual Report. The annual financial statements of the Group will be prepared in accordance with UK adopted IFRS.

 

The interim condensed consolidated financial statements do not constitute statutory accounts as defined in the Companies Act 2006.  The financial information for the full year is based on the statutory accounts for the financial year ended 31 December 2022.  A copy of the statutory accounts for that year, which were prepared in accordance with UK adopted International Accounting Standards has been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The auditor's report under section 495 of the Companies Act 2006 in relation to those accounts was unmodified and did not include a reference to any matters to which the auditor drew attention by way of emphasis without qualifying the report and did not contain a statement under s498(2) or s498(3) of the Companies Act 2006.

 

The impact of the seasonality or cyclicality of operations is not regarded as significant on the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

The interim condensed consolidated financial statements are presented in US dollars ($) and all monetary amounts are rounded to the nearest thousand ($000) except when otherwise indicated.

 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements

Many of the amounts included in the financial statements involve the use of judgement and/or estimation. These judgements and estimates are based on management's best knowledge of the relevant facts and circumstances, having regard to prior experience, but actual results may differ from the amounts included in the financial statements. Information about such judgements and estimates is contained in the accounting policies and/or the notes to the financial statements.

 

The significant accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions remain consistent with those disclosed in the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2022. The most significant are:

 

Critical judgements:

·          Assessment of impairment indicators for the Group's GCUs - note 13

·          Acquiring a subsidiary or a group of assets - note 4.

In identifying a business combination or acquisition of assets the Group considers the underlying inputs, processes and outputs acquired as a part of the transaction. For an acquired set of activities and assets to be considered a business there must be at least some inputs and processes that have the capability to achieve the purposes of the Group. Where significant inputs and processes have not been acquired, a transaction is considered to be the purchase of assets. For the assets and assumed liabilities acquired the Group allocates the total consideration paid (including directly attributable transaction costs) based on the relative fair values of the underlying items. On 1 April 2022 the Group acquired the control of Amarillo Gold Group (note 4). The transaction was accounted as a purchase of assets as no significant systems, processes or outputs were acquired, with the main asset acquired being the Posse gold project.

 

As at 30 June 2023, the valuation of certain of the Group's assets and liabilities reflect the changes to certain assumptions used in the determination of their value, such as future gold and silver prices, discount rates, exchange rates, and interest rates (note 16).

 

Significant estimates:

·          Mine closure estimates - note 20

·          Recoverable values of mining assets - note 13

The values of the Group's mining assets are sensitive to a range of characteristics unique to each mine unit. Key sources of estimation for all assets include uncertainty around ore reserve estimates and cash flow projections. In performing impairment reviews, the Group assesses the recoverable amount of its operating assets principally with reference to fair value less costs of disposal, assessed using discounted cash flow models. The Group uses two approaches to estimate the fair value less costs of disposal, depending on the circumstances: (i) the traditional approach, which uses a single cash flow projection, and (ii) the expected cash flow approach, which uses multiple, probability-weighted cash flow projections. As at 31 December 2022, the impairment reviews for the Group´s operating assets were performed using a traditional approach, with the exception of Inmaculada where the Group used an expected cash flow approach. To determine the fair value less costs of disposal of exploration assets the Group uses the value-in-situ methodology.   This methodology applies a realisable 'enterprise value' to unprocessed mineral resources per ounce of resources.

 

There is judgement involved in determining the assumptions that are considered to be reasonable and consistent with those that would be applied by market participants. Significant estimates used include future gold and silver prices, future capital requirements, reserves and resources volumes, production costs and the application of discount rates which reflect the macro-economic risk in Peru and Argentina, as applicable.  Judgement is also required in determining the risk factor that will be applied by market participants to take into account the water restrictions imposed by the Chilean government over the Volcan cash-generating unit.  Changes in these assumptions will affect the recoverable amount of the property, plant and equipment, evaluation and exploration assets, and intangibles.

 

Changes in accounting policies and disclosures

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the interim condensed consolidated financial statements are consistent with those followed in the preparation of the Group's annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2022, except for the adoption of new standards effective as of 1 January 2023. The Group has not early adopted any standard, interpretation or amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective. Several amendments apply for the first time in 2023, but do not have an impact on the interim condensed consolidated financial statements of the Group.

 

Definition of Accounting Estimates - Amendments to IAS 8

The amendments to IAS 8 clarify the distinction between changes in accounting estimates, and changes in accounting policies and the correction of errors. They also clarify how entities use measurement techniques and inputs to develop accounting estimates. The amendments had no impact on the Group's interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction - Amendments to IAS 12

The amendments to IAS 12 Income Tax narrow the scope of the initial recognition exception, so that it no longer applies to transactions that give rise to equal taxable and deductible temporary differences such as leases and decommissioning liabilities. The amendments had no impact on the Group's interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Going concern

The Directors have reviewed Group liquidity and covenant forecasts to assess whether the Group is able to continue in operation for the period to 30 September 2024 (the "Going Concern Period") which is at least 12 months from the date of these financial statements.   The Directors also considered the impact of a reasonable downside scenario on the Group's future cash flows and liquidity position as well as debt covenant compliance.

 

Having secured government approval of the Inmaculada MEIA in early August 2023, the material uncertainties disclosed in the 2022 Annual Report with respect to the Group's ability to continue as a going concern no longer exist.

 

For purposes of the review, the base case scenario assumed forecast production for 2023, life-of-mine plans for Inmaculada, Pallancata, San Jose and Mara Rosa, and precious metal prices of $1,876.6/oz for gold and $24.2/oz for silver (the "Assumed Prices"), based on analysts' consensus prices as of June 2023.  The Directors also considered a reasonable downside scenario, taking into account, a four-week suspension of all operations, community relations-related cost increases, and precious metal prices which are 10% lower than the Assumed Prices.  In both of these scenarios, it has been assumed that the US$200 million medium-term loan is fully drawn down.

 

Under both scenarios, the cash balance remained more than adequate for the Group's forecast expenditure with sufficient headroom maintained to comply with debt covenants.

 

The results of reverse stress tests were also considered.

 

After their thorough review, the Directors have a reasonable expectation that the Group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence during the Going Concern Period.  Accordingly, they continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the condensed set of financial statements.

 

3 Segment reporting

 

The following tables present revenue and profit/(loss) information for the Group's operating segments for the six months ended 30 June 2023 and 30 June 2022 and asset information as at 30 June 2023 and 31 December 2022, respectively:

 

Six months ended 30 June 2023

(Unaudited)

 

Pallancata

US$000

 

 

San Jose US$000

 

Inmaculada US$000

 

Exploration  US$000

 

Other

US$000

 

Adjustments and eliminations US$000

 

Total

US$000

Revenue from external customers

 

27,223

 

 

107,964

 

178,772

 

-

 

265

 

-

 

314,224

Inter segment revenue


-



-


-


-


4,669


(4,669)


-

Total revenue from customers

 

27,223

 

 

107,964

 

178,772

 

-

 

4,934

 

(4,669)

 

314,224

Provisional pricing adjustments


(210)



(30)


39


-


-


-


(201)

Total revenue

 

27,013



107,934


178,811


-


4,934


(4,669)


314,023

Segment profit/(loss)

 

(19,501)

 

 

9,297

 

62,447

 

(11,593)

 

4,016

 

78

 

44,744

Others(1)















(110,859)

Profit from continuing operations before income tax















(66,115)

















As at 30 June 2023 (Unaudited)














 

Assets

 











 


 


Capital expenditure

 

3,108



21,487


37,642


66,159


78

 

-

 

128,474


 











 


 


Current assets

 

6,350



49,686


17,698


2


4,422

 

-

 

78,158

Other non-current assets

 

12,289



140,652


508,960


386,424


38,577

 

-

 

1,086,902

Total segment assets

 

18,639

 

 

190,338

 

526,658

 

386,426

 

42,999

 

-

 

1,165,060

Not reportable assets(2)


-



-


-


-


200,023


-


200,023

Total assets

 

18,639

 

 

190,338

 

526,658

 

386,426

 

243,022

 

-

 

1,365,083



























1   Comprised of administrative expenses of US$20,884,000, other income of US$4,863,000, other expenses of US$12,817,000, impairment and write off of non-financial assets of US$61,403,000, share of losses of an associate of US$7,968,000, finance income of US$2,628,000, finance costs of US$11,010,000 and foreign exchange loss of US$4,268,000.

2   Not reportable assets are comprised of financial assets at fair value through OCI of US$403,000, financial assets at fair value through profit and loss of US$nil, other receivables of US$65,572,000, income tax receivable of US$5,856,000, deferred income tax asset of US$1,029,000, investment in associates US$26,332,000, derivative financial assets of US$7,253,000 and cash and cash equivalents of US$93,578,000.

 

Six months ended 30 June 2022 (Unaudited)

 

Pallancata US$000

 

San Jose US$000

 

Inmaculada US$000

 

Exploration  US$000

 

Other

US$000

 

Adjustments and eliminations US$000

 

Total

US$000

Revenue from external customers

 

39,084

 

110,804

 

204,262

 

-

 

300

 

-

 

354,450

Inter segment revenue


-


-


-


-


4,834


(4,834)


-

Total revenue from customers

 

39,084

 

110,804

 

204,262

 

-

 

5,134

 

(4,834)

 

354,450

Provisional pricing adjustments


(2,546)


(4,057)


(66)


-


-


-


(6,669)

Total revenue

 

36,538

 

106,747

 

204,196

 

-

 

5,134

 

(4,834)

 

347,781

Segment profit/(loss)

 

(8,614)

 

18,436

 

86,617

 

(24,286)

 

4,098

 

461

 

76,712

Others(1)














(71,342)

Profit from continuing operations before income tax














5,370
















As at 31 December 2022













 

Assets

 










 


 


Capital expenditure

 

13,518


50,112


78,176


196,792


1,268

 

-

 

339,866


 










 


 


Current assets

 

16,965


62,796


19,872


-


4,171

 

-

 

103,804

Other non-current assets

 

21,345


159,617


508,768


337,654


42,319

 

-

 

1,069,703

Total segment assets

 

38,310

 

222,413

 

528,640

 

337,654

 

46,490

 

-

 

1,173,507

Not reportable assets(2)


-


-


-


-


243,777


-


243,777

Total assets

 

38,310

 

222,413

 

528,640

 

337,654

 

290,267

 

-

 

1,417,284


























1   Comprised of administrative expenses of US$24,913,000, other income of US$2,580,000, other expenses of US$22,902,000, impairment and write off of non-financial assets of US$2,064,000, share of losses of an associate of US$10,474,000, finance income of US$2,163,000, finance costs of US$13,083,000 and foreign exchange loss of US$2,649,000.

2   Not reportable assets are comprised of financial assets at fair value through OCI of US$509,000, financial assets at fair value through profit and loss of US$1,015,000, other receivables of US$49,542,000, income tax receivable of US$9,226,000, deferred income tax asset of US$4,213,000, investment in associates US$33,242,000, derivative financial assets of US$2,186,000 and cash and cash equivalents of US$143,844,000.


4 Acquisition of assets

Amarillo Gold Group ("Amarillo")

On 1 April 2022, the Group acquired a 100% interest in Amarillo Gold Corporation (Amarillo) flagship Mara Rosa ("Mara Rosa") project located in Goiás State, Brazil, which included the construction stage Posse gold project as well as certain early-stage exploration targets.

 

The Group applied its judgement to weigh the characteristics of Amarillo´s acquisition and concluded whether it constituted the acquisition of a business or a set of assets and activities. Since there were no outputs acquired, the Group based its conclusion on the fact that the processes acquired were not critical to the ability to develop or convert the actual inputs into outputs.  In this context, and in application of IFRS 3, the Group concluded that the acquisition of Amarillo did not constitute the acquisition of a business but the acquisition of a set of assets.

 

The consideration paid for the transaction amounted to CAD$154,429,478 (US$123,420,039), and transaction costs amounted to US$4,830,000.  In addition, a 2 per cent net smelter revenue royalty on certain exploration properties owned by Amarillo that were separate from Posse was granted.

 

Amarillo consolidated its financial information with the Group from 1 April 2022, being the date on which the Group obtained control.

 

The fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed as at 1 April 2022 comprised the following:



US$000

Cash and cash equivalents


4,246

Other receivables


968

Intangibles


21

Evaluation and exploration assets


107,362

Property, plant and equipment


15,078

Deferred income tax asset


3,775

Income tax receivable


36

Total assets

 

131,486

Accounts payable and other liabilities


(3,236)

Total liabilities


(3,236)

Net assets acquired

 

128,250




Consideration for the acquisition of Amarillo Gold Canada shares


123,420

Transaction costs


4,830

Total consideration


128,250




Cash paid


128,250

Less cash acquired with the subsidiary


(4,246)

Net cash flow on acquisition


124,004

 

The Group recognised individual identifiable assets (and liabilities) by allocating the cost of acquisition on the basis of the relative fair values at the date of purchase:

Step 1: Identify assets and liabilities acquired, adjusting them to the Group´s accounting policies and presentation;

Step 2: Determine the purchase consideration; and

Step 3: Purchase Price Allocation: The consideration paid is allocated to the fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities assumed with the remainder allocated to the mineral property acquired. 

 

The fair value at the time of acquisition is the amount for which an asset could be exchanged, or a liability settled, between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm's-length transaction.

 

5 Revenue

 

Period ended 30 June 2023 (unaudited)

 

Period ended 30 June 2022 (unaudited)


Revenue from customers

 

 

 


Revenue from customers





Goods/ services sold US$000  

Shipping services US$000 

Total US$000

 

Provisional pricing US$000

Total US$000


Goods/ services sold US$000 

Shipping services US$000 

Total      US$000


Provisional pricing US$000

 Total US$000

Gold (from dore bars)

142,854

321

143,175

 

21

143,196


164,011

458

164,469


(34)

164,435

Silver (from dore bars)

77,055

226

77,281

 

(3)

77,278


87,531

312

87,843


(74)

87,769

Gold (from concentrate)

46,796

1,871

48,667

 

261

48,928


44,215

1,277

45,492


(1,262)

44,230

Silver (from concentrate)

43,293

1,543

44,836

 

(480)

44,356


54,822

1,524

56,346


(5,299)

51,047

Services

265

-

265

 

-

265


300

-

300


-

300

Total

310,263

3,961

314,224

 

(201)

314,023


350,879

3,571

354,450


(6,669)

347,781

 

6 Cost of sales before exceptional items

 

Included in cost of sales are:

 



Six months ended 30 June



2023 (Unaudited) US$000

 

2022 (Unaudited) US$000

Depreciation and amortisation in cost of sales1

 

72,705

 

67,733

Personnel expenses2


58,905

 

58,052

Mining royalty


2,844

 

3,020

Change in products in process and finished goods3


4,716

 

(8,202)

Fixed costs at the operations during stoppages, reduced capacity and excess absenteeism4


3,005


3,870

1   The depreciation and amortisation in production cost is US$71,903,000 (2022: US$68,801,000).

2   Includes workers' profit sharing of US$1,174,000 (2022: US$2,046,000).

3   Corresponds to the difference between the beginning and ending balance of the finished products and products in process included in the production cost during the period.

4   Corresponds to the fixed cost at the operations during stoppages of US$905,000, net of the income for the insurance of US$486,000, and the incremental idle capacity costs of US$2,586,000 (2022: Corresponds to the unallocated fixed costs accumulated during operation below planned operating capacity and excess absenteeism due to Covid-19 pandemic of US$2,081,000, and the unallocated fixed cost accumulated during operations below planning operating capacity due to the fire in San Jose of US$1,789,000).  

 

7 Exploration expenses



Six months ended 30 June



2023

 (Unaudited)
US$000


2022

 (Unaudited)
US$000

Mine site exploration1





Arcata


40


43

Ares


13


159

Inmaculada


368


1,618

Pallancata


591


3,714

San Jose


4,213


4,324



5,225


9,858

Prospects2





Canada


2,308


6,903

Peru


114


204

USA


-


1,353

Chile


(24)


(20)



2,398


8,440

Generative3





Peru


(206)


928

Mexico


7


270

USA


1


-

Brasil


1,120


-



922


1,198

Personnel


2,502


3,682

Depreciation right-of-use


48


102

Others


420


546

Total


11,515


23,826

1   Mine-site exploration is performed with the purpose of identifying potential minerals within an existing mine-site, with the goal of maintaining or extending the mine's life.

2   Prospects expenditure relates to detailed geological evaluations in order to determine zones which have mineralisation potential that is economically viable for exploration. Exploration expenses are generally incurred in the following areas: mapping, sampling, geophysics, identification of local targets and reconnaissance drilling.

3 Generative expenditure is early stage exploration expenditure related to the basic evaluation of the region to identify prospects areas that have the geological conditions necessary to contain mineral deposits. Related activities include regional and field reconnaissance, satellite images, compilation of public information and identification of exploration targets.

 

 

8 Selling expenses



Six months ended 30 June



2023  (Unaudited)

     US$000

 

2022 (Unaudited) US$000

Personnel expenses

 

78

 

159

Warehouse services


743

 

511

Taxes1


5,143

 

5,219

Other


930

 

838

Total

 

6,894

 

6,727

1   Corresponds to the export duties in Argentina calculated as a fixed amount in pesos per US$ of export.

 

9 Other income and expenses before exceptional items


Six months ended 30 June



2023  (Unaudited)

 US$000

 

2022 (Unaudited) US$000

Other income

 

 

 


Logistic services


712

 

-

Gain on recovery of expenses1


2,414

 

213

Recovery of previously written off account receivable


-

 

543

Others2


1,737

 

1,824

Total


4,863

 

2,580

Other expenses

 

 

 


Increase in provision for mine closure

 

(1,315)

 

(10,799)

Depreciation right-of-use assets


(54)

 

(52)

Corporate social responsibility contribution in Argentina


(1,696)

 

(1,615)

Care and maintenance expenses of Ares mine unit


(1,355)

 

(1,921)

Care and maintenance expenses of Arcata mine unit


(1,808)

 

(2,271)

Voluntary retirement program in Argentina3


-

 

(938)

Damage Inmaculada machine belt


-

 

(1,831)

Provision of obsolescence of supplies4


(1,730)

 

-

Others5


(4,859)

 

(3,475)

Total


(12,817)

 

(22,902)

1   This is primarily the insurance collected in 2023 due to the damage of the Inmaculada machine belt in 2022 of US$2,620,000, net of the loss on recovery of expenses of US$206,000.

2  This mainly includes the sale of mine concessions in Chile of US$1,150,000 (2022: US$nil), export credits in Argentina of US$nil (2022: US$345,000), gain on sale of property, plant and equipment of US$nil (2022: US$199,000), gain on sale of supplies US$204,000 (2022: US$281,000) and the recovery of a receivable in Canada of US$nil (2022: US$543,000).

3   This represents the voluntary retirement programme implemented at Minera Santa Cruz as a result of the need to comply with the Provincial Employment Law that requires at least 70% of the workforce to have resided in the province of Santa Cruz for three years.

4   Mainly includes the provision for obsolescence of supplies related to the ore sorting project amounting to US$1,713,000.

5   This is primarily the tax penalties of US$2,069,000 (2022: US$657,000), loss on sale of property, plant and equipment of US$409,000 (2022: US$nil), the contingencies of US$956,000 mainly explained by labor claims in Argentina (2022: US$1,670,000), the remuneration of the employees included in the voluntary retirement program of US$nil (June 2022 US$463,000), since Minera Santa Cruz has to pay them until the employment relationship is terminated even though they are prevented from attending the mining unit, and the termination benefits of the Pallancata mine unit of US$400,000 (2022: US$nil).

 

10 Exceptional items

 

Exceptional items are those significant items which, due to their nature or the expected infrequency of the events giving rise to them, need to be disclosed separately on the face of the income statement to enable a better understanding of the financial performance of the Group and facilitate comparison with prior years. Unless stated, exceptional items do not correspond to a reporting segment of the Group.



Six months ended 30 June



2023  (Unaudited) US$000

 

2022  (Unaudited) US$000

Share of loss on an associate

 

 

 

 

Impairment of Aclara Resources Inc. 1 and refer note 15

 

(7,183)

 

(9,923)

Total

 

(7,183)

 

(9,923)

Impairment and write-off of non-financial assets

 

 

 

 

Impairment of non-current assets 2

 

(59,719)


-

Total

 

(59,719)

 

-

Income tax expense

 

 

 


Income tax credit

 

18,574

 

-

Total

 

18,574

 

-

 

The exceptional items for the period ended 30 June 2023 and 2022 correspond to:

 

1      Corresponds to the impairment charge of US$7,183,000 (2022: US$9,923,000) based on the updated valuation of the investment in Aclara Resources Inc. as at 30 June 2023.

2       Corresponds to the impairment charge related to San Jose (US$17,398,000) and Azuca and Crespo (US$42,321,000) projects.

 

11 Finance income and finance cost before exceptional items

 

The Group recognised the following finance income and finance costs before exceptional items:



Six months ended 30 June

 



2023  (Unaudited) US$000

 

2022  (Unaudited) US$000

Finance income:





 

Interest on deposits and liquidity funds


2,313

 

562

 

Interest on loans


126

 

104

 

Unwind of discount on mine rehabilitation


-

 

1,098

 

Others


189

 

399

 

Total finance income

 

2,628

 

2,163

 

Finance cost:


 



 

Interest on bank loans


(5,468)


(5,303)

 

Other interest


(3,125)


(1,045)

 

Total interest expense


(8,593)

 

(6,348)

 

Loss on discount of other receivables1


(349)


(957)

 

Loss from changes in the fair value of financial instruments2


-


(2,802)

 

Loss from changes in the fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit and loss


-


(2,282)

 

Loss on sale of financial assets at fair value through profit and loss


(292)


-

 

Unwind of discount on mine rehabilitation


(791)


-

 

Others


(985)


(694)

 

Total finance costs

 

(11,010)

 

(13,083)

 

1   Mainly corresponds to the gain/(loss) on discount of tax credits in Argentina.

2   Represents the foreign exchange transaction costs to acquire US$3,289,000 dollars through the sale of bonds in Argentina.

 

 

12 Income tax expense



Six months ended 30 June



2023 (Unaudited)

     US$000

 

2022 (Unaudited) US$000

Current tax





Current income tax expense


7,405

 

9,386

Withholding tax


297

 

-

Current mining royalty charge


2,130

 

2,475

Current special mining tax charge


618

 

1,533

Total


10,450


13,394

Deferred tax


 



Origination and reversal of temporary differences


(23,880)

 

(7,604)

Total


(13,430)

 

(7,604)

Total taxation (credit)/charge in the income statement


(13,430)

 

5,790

 

The pre-exceptional tax charge for the period was US$5,144,000 (2022: US$5,790,000).

 

The weighted average statutory income tax rate was 31.5% for 2023 and 35.0% for 2022. This is calculated as the average of the statutory tax rates applicable in the countries in which the Group operates, weighted by the profit or loss before tax of the Group companies in their respective countries as included in the consolidated financial statements. The interim income tax rate calculation is based on the estimate average annual effective tax rate of the Group.

 

The change in the weighted average statutory income tax rate is due to a change in the weighting of profit or loss before tax in the various jurisdictions in which the Group operates.

 

The profit before income tax (pre-exceptional) excluding the exchange difference of US$ 4,268,000 was US$ 5,055,000.  The weighted average effective annual income tax rate expected for the full financial year was 47.5% generating an income tax expense of US$ 2,401,000. The higher tax in H1 2023 versus US$ 2,401,000 is due to the one-time effect occurred in the half year related to the local currency revaluation of US$ 1,906,000 and the non-deductible loss on the sale of C3 Metals Inc. shares of US$ 837,000.

 

The UK Government increased the rate of Corporation Tax to 25% on profits over £250,000, approximately US$318,000, from April 2023. There is no impact on the deferred tax calculation of the Group.

 

 

13 Property, plant and equipment  

 

During the six months ended 30 June 2023, the Group acquired and developed assets with a cost of US$126,523,000 (2022: US$88,471,000). The additions for the six months ended 30 June 2023 relate to:

 



Mining properties and development (Unaudited)

 US$000

 

 Other property plant and equipment (Unaudited)

  US$000

 

Total additions of property plant and equipment (Unaudited)

  US$000

San Jose

 

16,086

 

5,401

 

21,487

Pallancata


3,065

 

43

 

3,108

Inmaculada


34,748

 

2,894

 

37,642

Mara Rosa


16,423

 

47,593

 

64,016

Others


192

 

78

 

270

Total

 

70,514

 

56,009

 

126,523

 

Assets with a net book value of US$1,006,000 were disposed of by the Group during the six month period ended 30 June 2023 (30 June 2022: US$nil) resulting in a net loss on disposal of US$409,000 (30 June 2022: gain of US$199,000).

 

For the six months ended 30 June 2023, the depreciation charge on property, plant and equipment was US$74,429,000 (2022: US$70,020,000).

 

There were borrowing costs capitalised in property, plant and equipment amounting to US$6,807,000 (31 December 2022: US$1,974,000).

 

30 June 2023

In 2023, management determined that there was a trigger of impairment in the San Jose mine unit due to the increase in the discount rate from 19.8% to 21.7% mainly explained by the rise in country risk premium in Argentina, and higher costs than expected due to local inflation.  The impairment test performed over the San Jose CGU resulted in an impairment recognised as at 30 June 2023 of US$17,398,000 (US$16,588,000 in property, plant and equipment, US$376,000 in evaluation and exploration assets and US$434,000 in intangibles).

 

The Group is conducting a sales process for its Azuca and Crespo projects. This decision to evaluate the sale of these assets is part of the Group´s strategy to focus its capital on larger-scale projects. Management is currently negotiating with interested parties and has not entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of these assets. As at 30 June 2023, Azuca and Crespo do not meet the conditions to be classified as an asset held-for sale under IFRS 5 "Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations".

 

Based on preliminary discussions with interested parties on the investment and costs required for these projects, given their operational capabilities, management determined that there were triggers of impairment in both the Azuca and Crespo projects. An impairment test was carried out, adjusting the key inputs used to determine the projects recoverable value, resulting in an impairment charge of US$42,321,000 (US$15,898,000 in property, plant and equipment, US$26,420,000 in evaluation and exploration assets and US$3,000 in intangibles) for Azuca, and Crespo.

 

No indicators of impairment or reversal of impairment were identified in the other CGUs, which includes other exploration projects.

 

The recoverable value of the San Jose, CGU, and the Crespo and Azuca assets was determined using a fair value less costs of disposal (FVLCD) methodology.

 

The key assumptions on which management has based its determination of FVLCD and the associated recoverable values calculated for the San Jose CGU and Crespo assets are gold and silver prices, future capital requirements, production costs, reserves and resources volumes (reflected in the production volume), and the discount rate.

 

 

Real prices US$ per oz.

2024


2025


2026


2027


Long-term

Gold

1,850


1,735


1,582


1,557


1,600

Silver

24.3


22.6


21.4


21.8


22.0

 



                                                                                        San Jose

                                                                                        Crespo

Discount rate (post-tax)


21.7%

6.0%

 

The period of 7 years and 9 years was used to prepare the cash flow projections of San Jose mine unit and Crespo, respectively, which were in line with their life of mine.

 

With respect to Azuca, given its early stage, the Group applied a value-in-situ methodology, which applies a realisable ´enterprise value´ to unprocessed mineral resources. The methodology is used to determine the fair value less costs of disposal of the Azuca assets. The enterprise value used in the calculation performed as at 30 June 2023 was $0.095 per silver equivalent ounce of resources. The enterprise value figure is based on observable external market information.

 

 

The estimated recoverable values of the Group's CGUs are equal to, or not materially different than, their carrying values.

 

Sensitivity analysis

Other than as disclosed below, management believes that no reasonably possible change in any of the key assumptions above would cause the carrying value of any of its cash generating units to exceed its recoverable amount.

 

A change in any of the key assumptions would have the following impact:

 



US$000



San Jose

Crespo

Gold and silver prices (decrease by 10%)


(45,400)

(25,800)

Gold and silver prices (increase by 10%)


45,600

25,000

Production costs (increase by 10%)


(31,100)

(11,300)

Production costs (decrease by 10%)


30,300

11,100

Production volume (decrease by 10%)


(28,600)

(13,800)

Production volume (increase by 10%)


28,600

13,600

Post tax discount rate (increase by 3%)1


(6,100)

(17,800)

Post tax discount rate (decrease by 3%)1


6,900

22,400

Capital expenditure (increase by 10%)


(8,900)

(10,700)

Capital expenditure (decrease by 10%)


8,900

10,600

1   Management believed that a 3% change was a reasonably possible change in the post-tax discount rate in Argentina. However, changes in the perception of Argentina arising from political, social and financial disruption may give rise to significant movement in the discount rate used in the assessment of the San Jose CGU.

 

2022

The delay on the government decision on Inmaculada MEIA constituted a trigger for impairment as at 31 December 2022. The MEIA was approved on 1 August 2023.

 

The company used an expected cash flow approach, assigning probabilities to the following possible scenarios regarding the government decision on Inmaculada´s MEIA: (i) MEIA was approved, (ii) MEIA was denied, reapplication was needed and consequently Inmaculada was placed in care and maintenance by end of 2023, resuming operations in H2 2026. Management considered scenario (i) as the most likely one, and scenario (ii) to have a probability of less than 25% of occurrence. The valuation test performed over Inmaculada CGU, using a probability-weighted approach, resulted in no impairment. If the probability of occurrence of scenario (ii) was higher than 25%, an impairment charge would be required for Inmaculada.

 

The recoverable value of the Inmaculada CGU was determined using a fair value less costs of disposal (FVLCD) methodology. FVLCD was determined using a combination of level 2 and level 3 inputs, which result in fair value measurements categorised in its entirety as level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, to construct a discounted cash flow model to estimate the amount that would be paid by a willing third party in an arm's length transaction. 

 

 

Real prices US$ per oz.

2023

2024

2025

2026

2027

2028-2038

Gold

1,716

1,711

1,603

1,545

1,466

1,561

Silver

20.3

20.7

19.6

20.6

23.3

20.8

 



Inmaculada

Discount rate (post-tax)


5.2%

 

31 December 2022 (US$000)


Inmaculada

Current carrying value of CGU, net of deferred tax


443,447

 

Sensitivity analysis

Other than as disclosed below, management believes that no reasonably possible change in any of the key assumptions above would cause the carrying value of any of its cash generating units to exceed its recoverable amount.

 

A change in any of the key assumptions would have the following impact:




 

 

Inmaculada

 

San Jose

Gold and silver prices (decrease by 10%)


(175,100)


(53,800)

Gold and silver prices (increase by 10%)


171,800


54,600

Production costs (increase by 10%)


(96,700)


(49,800)

Production costs (decrease by 10%)


94,700


49,800

Production volume (decrease by 10%)


(73,300)


(78,900)

Production volume (increase by 10%)


73,100


78,900

Post tax discount rate (increase by 3%)


(69,000)


(7,800)

Post tax discount rate (decrease by 3%)


91,700


8,800

Capital expenditure (increase by 10%)


(35,600)


(11,600)

Capital expenditure (decrease by 10%)


35,600


11,600

 

 

As at 31 December 2022, management determined that the newly discovered area Royropata, west of current operations at Pallancata, was a trigger for reversal of impairment. The new area is estimated to contain 51.2 million silver equivalent ("Ag Eq") ounces. These new resources constitute a significant change in the estimates used to determine the asset's recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognised as at 31 December 2021.

 

The valuation test performed over the Pallancata CGU resulted in a reversal of impairment recognised as at December 31, 2022 of US$15,145,000 in property, plant and equipment, and US$417,000 in evaluation and exploration assets).

 

The recoverable value of the Pallancata CGU was determined using a fair value less costs of disposal (FVLCD) methodology. FVLCD was determined using a combination of level 2 and level 3 inputs, which result in fair value measurements categorised in its entirety as level 3 in the fair value hierarchy, to construct a discounted cash flow model to estimate the amount that would be paid by a willing third party in an arm's length transaction. 

 

 

Real prices US$ per oz.


2026


2027

2028

Gold


1,545


1,466

1,561

Silver


20.6


23.3

20.8

 



                                                                                        Pallancata

Discount rate (post-tax)


5.1%

 

31 December 2022 (US$000)


Pallancata

Current carrying value of CGU, net of deferred tax


21,345

 

 

Sensitivity analysis

Given that Pallancata´s recoverable value is significantly higher than the reversal of impairment amount recognised, there is no reasonably possible change in any of the key assumptions that would decrease the reversal of impairment amount recognised.

 

 

14 Evaluation and exploration assets

 

During the six months ended 30 June 2023, the Group capitalised evaluation and exploration costs of US$1,828,000 (2022: US$113,625,000). The additions correspond to the following mine units:


 


Unaudited

US$000

Mara Rosa



452

Azuca



367

Crespo



314

Volcan



695

Total

 

 

1,828

 

There were no transfers from evaluation and exploration assets to property, plant and equipment during the period (30 June 2022: US$nil, 31 December 2022: US$102,119,000).

 

At 30 June 2023, the Group recorded an impairment with respect to evaluation and exploration assets of the San Jose mine unit of US$376,000, and the Azuca and Crespo projects of US$26,420,000. The calculation of the recoverable values is detailed in note 13.

 

At 31 December 2022, the Group recorded a reversal of impairment with respect to evaluation and exploration assets of the Pallancata mine unit of US$417,000 and an impairment of the Azuca project of US$4,199,000. The calculation of the recoverable values of the Pallancata mine unit is detailed in note 13.

 

There were borrowing costs capitalised in evaluation and exploration assets of US$38,000 (31 December 2022: US$1,087,000).

 

 

15 Investment in an associate

 

The Group retains a 20.0% interest in Aclara Resources Inc. ("Aclara"), a listed company involved in the exploration of, rare-earth metals in Chile. The company was incorporated under the laws of British Columbia, Canada, where the principal executive offices are located. The operations are conducted through one wholly owned subsidiary named REE UNO SpA, located in Chile.

 

Upon Aclara´s Initial Public Offering ('IPO') on 10 December 2021, HM Holdings retained 20% of Aclara shares. The investment was recorded at initial recognition at fair value, based on the IPO´ offering price, and is accounted for using the equity method in the consolidated financial statements.

 

 

The following table summarises the financial information of the Group's investment in Aclara Resources Inc:

 

 

As at 30
June
2023

 (Unaudited)

 US$000

 

As at 31
December
2022

 US$000

Current assets


52,658


67,291

Non-current assets


105,236


90,271

Current liabilities


(2,328)


(3,674)

Non-current liabilities


-


(1)

Equity


155,566


153,887

Group's share in equity (20%)


31,113


30,777

Fair value adjustment allocated to the evaluation and exploration assets on initial recognition1


12,325


12,388

Impairment of non-current assets2


(17,106)

 

(9,923)

Group´s carrying amount of the investment 20%


26,332


33,242

Summarised consolidated statement of profit and loss


 



Revenue


-


-

Administrative expenses


(2,914)


(5,261)

Exploration expenses


(2,580)


(3,642)

Other income


33


-

Finance income


1,460


648

Finance cost


(13)


(18)

Foreign exchange gain/(loss)


87


(111)

Loss from continuing operations for the period

 

(3,927)

 

(8,384)

Loss from continuing operation for the period

 

(3,927)

 

(8,384)

Group's share of loss for the period

 

(785)

 

(1,677)

Other comprehensive profit that may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods, net of tax


 



Exchange differences on translating foreign operations


5,292


6,417

Total comprehensive profit for the period


5,292


6,417

Total comprehensive profit


5,292


6,417

Group´s share of comprehensive profit/(loss) for the period


1,058


1,283

1.  This represents the 20% of the fair value adjustment, estimated by the Group, to Aclara's exploration and evaluation assets on initial recognition, representing US$12,010,000 (2022:US$61,940,000).

2.  This represents the 20% share in the total impairment, estimated by the Group, of Aclara´s exploration and evaluation assets of US$85,530,000 (2022: US$49,615,000)

 

The movement of investment in associate is as follows:



Period ended 31 December



30 June

2023
US$000


31 December 2022
US$000

Beginning balance


33,242


43,559

Initial recognition


-


-

Impairment of non-current assets


(7,183)


(9,923)

Share of loss for the period


(785)


(1,677)

Share of comprehensive profit for the period


1,058


1,283

Ending balance


26,332


33,242

 

At the moment of the acquisition of the associate the loss of the period was US$483,000 and the comprehensive loss for the period was US$4,480,000.

 

On July 4th, 2023, Aclara announced the receipt of a notice from the Environmental Service Assessment in Chile of its decision to terminate the review of Aclara´s application for an environmental impact assessment of the Penco Module due to the finding of trees considered as ´vulnerable species´ in the area of the project. Aclara is currently working to refile a revised application.

 

Aclara´s recent announcement and the impact that it could have in the first production date of Penco project, were considered as indicators of impairment. Therefore, in compliance with IAS 36, the Group has performed a valuation on Aclara, and determined an impairment charge of US$7,183,000.

 

The recoverable value of Aclara was determined using a value-in-use methodology.  The key assumptions on which management has based its valuation of Aclara´s shares are the independent technical report of Penco module issued in September 2021, adjusted by: a 3-year delay in the first production date, local inflation and additional risk impacting costs; latest forecast prices; and a discount rate of 9.6%.

 

Sensitivity analysis

An increase of 1% in the discount rate and a delay of one additional year in the first production date would have the following impact in the Group´s investment in Aclara:

 


US$000

Discount rate (increase by 1%)

(3,578)

Delay in first production date (1 additional year)

(2,551)

 

The carrying amount of the investment recognised the changes in the Group's share of net assets of the associate since the acquisition date. The balance as at 30 June 2023, after recognising the changes in the Group´s share of net assets of the associate and the impairment charge is US$26,332,000 (31 December 2022: US$33,242,559,000).

 

Aclara´s fair value based on share price as of 30 June 2023 was US$14,810,000 (31 December 2022: US$7,679,000 ).

 

No dividends were received from the associate during 2023 and 2022.

 

The associate had no contingent liabilities or capital commitments as at 30 June 2023 and 31 December 2022.

 

16 Financial instruments

 

Fair value hierarchy

 

The Group uses the following hierarchy for determining and disclosing the fair value of financial instruments by valuation technique:

 

Level 1: quoted (unadjusted) prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.

 

Level 2: other techniques for which all inputs which have a significant effect on the recorded fair value are observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3: techniques which use inputs which have a significant effect on the recorded fair value that are not based on observable market data.

 

At 30 June 2023 and 31 December 2022, the Group held the following financial instruments measured at fair value:


As at

 30 June 2023       (Unaudited)

US$000

 

Level 1

US$000

 

Level 2

US$000

 

Level 3

US$000

Assets measured at fair value







 

Equity shares1

403


403


-


-

Derivative financial assets2

7,253


-


7,253


-

Trade receivables

27,158


-


-


27,158

Liabilities measured at fair value








Derivative financial liabilities3

(954)




 

(954)




33,860

 

403

 

6,299

 

27,158

1   These investments were classified as financial assets at fair value through OCI. The C3 Metals Inc. shares, classified as financial assets at fair value through profit and loss, were sold during 2023.

2   Derivative financial assets - Silver forward and Gold forward.

3  Derivative financial liabilities - Gold forward.

On 8 February 2021, the Group signed agreements with JP Morgan to hedge the sale of 4,000,000 ounces of silver at US$27.10 per ounce for 2021 and a further 4,000,000 ounces of silver at US$26.86 per ounce for 2022.

On 10 November 2021, the Group signed agreements with JP Morgan to hedge the sale of 3,300,000 ounces of silver at US$25.0 per ounce for 2023.

On 12 April 2023, the Group signed agreements with Citibank to hedge the sale of 27,600 ounces of gold at US$2,100 per ounce for 2024.

On 20 April 2023, the Group signed agreements with JP Morgan to hedge the sale of 29,250 ounces of gold at US$2,047 per ounce for 2023.

On 19 June 2023, the Group signed agreements with Citibank to hedge the sale of 150,000 ounces of gold at US$2,117.05, US$2,166.65 and US$2,205.50 per ounce in 2025, 2026 and 2027 respectively.

The gold and silver forwards are being used to hedge exposure to changes in cash flows from gold and silver commodity prices. There is an economic relationship between the hedged item and the hedging instruments due to a common underlying. In accordance with IFRS 9, the derivative instruments are categorised as cash flow hedges at the inception of the hedging relationship and, on an ongoing basis, the Group assesses whether a hedging relationship meets the hedge effectiveness requirements. The Group has established a hedge ratio of 1:1 for the hedging relationships as the underlying risk of the silver and gold forwards is identical to the hedged risk components. To test the hedge effectiveness, the Group uses the hypothetical derivative method and compares the changes in the fair value of the gold and silver forwards against the changes in fair value of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk. That said, it is observed that the effectiveness tests comply with the requirements of IFRS 9 and that the hedging strategy is highly effective.

The fair values of the gold and silver forwards were calculated using a discounted cash flow model applying a combination of level 1 (USD quoted market commodity prices) and level 2 inputs. The models used to value the commodity forward contracts are standard models that calculate the present value of the fixed-legs (the fixed gold and silver leg) and compare them with the present value of the expected cash flows of the flowing legs (the London metal exchange "LME" gold and silver fixing). In the case of the commodity forward contracts, the models use the LME AU and AG forward curve and the US LIBOR swap curve for discounting.

This approach results in the fair value measurement categorised in its entirety as level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair values of the gold and silver forwards as at 30 June 2023 are as follows:

 


US$000

Current assets

5,679

Non-current assets

1,574

Non-current liabilities

(954)


6,299

The effect recorded is as follows:


US$000

Income statement - revenue

3,362

Equity - Unrealised gain on hedges

4,113

 

 

The sensitivity to a reasonable movement in the commodity prices, with all other variables held constant, determined as a +/-10% change in prices -US$31,778,000 / US$42,288,000 effect on OCI.

 


As at

 December 2022      (Unaudited)

US$000

 

Level 1

US$000

 

Level 2

US$000

 

Level 3

US$000

Assets measured at fair value







 

Equity shares1

1,524


1,524


-


-

Derivative financial assets

2,186




2,186


-

Trade receivables

42,364






42,364


46,074

 

1,524

 

2,186

 

42,364

1   These investments were classified as financial assets at fair value through OCI (US$509,000) and financial assets at fair value through profit and loss (US$ 1,015,000).

 

During the six months ended 30 June 2023 and the year, ended 31 December 2022 there were no transfers between these levels.

 

The reconciliation of the financial instruments categorised as Level 3 is as follows:

 



 

Trade receivables subject to price adjustments     US$000

Balance at 1 January 2022

 


27,773

Net change in trade receivables from goods sold



8,063

Changes in fair value of price adjustments



(1,323)

Realised price adjustments during the year



7,851

Balance at 31 December 2022

 

 

42,364

Net change in trade receivables from goods sold



(6,704)

Changes in fair value of price adjustments



(201)

Realised price adjustments during the period



(8,301)

Balance at 30 June 2023 (Unaudited)

 

 

27,158

 

The Group has price adjustments arising from the sale of concentrate and dore which were provisionally priced at the time the sale was recorded. The sensitivity of the fair value to an immediate 10% favourable or adverse change in the price of gold and silver (assuming all other variables remain constant), is as follows:

Period


Increase/
decrease in price of
ounces of:


Effect on
profit before tax
US$000

30 June 2023


Gold +/-10%
Silver+/-10%


+/-28

+/-51

31 December 2022

 


Gold +/-10%
Silver+/-10%


+/-165

+/-138

 

 

17 Deferred income tax assets and liabilities

 

The changes in the net deferred income tax assets/(liabilities) are as follows:

 



As at 30 June 2023

 (Unaudited) US$000

 

As at 31 December 2022

US$000

Beginning of the period


(75,832)


(86,744)

Income statement credit


23,880


2,687

Equity (charge)/credit


(927)


8,167

Deferred tax recognised for payment


-


58

End of the period


(52,879)


(75,832)

 

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income tax assets and liabilities relate to the same fiscal authority.

 

The amounts after offset, as presented on the face of the Consolidated statement of financial position, are as follows:

 

 


As at

30 June 2023

 (Unaudited) US$000

 

As at
31 December 2022

US$000

Deferred income tax assets1


1,029


4,213

Deferred income tax liabilities


(53,908)


(80,045)

Net deferred income tax liabilities


(52,879)


(75,832)

1   The decrease is driven principally by the recognition of the impairment charge of the period (US$18,574,000).

 

 

18 Cash and cash equivalents

 



As at 30 June 2023

 (Unaudited) US$000

 

As at
31 December 2022

US$000

Cash in hand


986


922

Current demand deposit accounts1


64,960


53,697

Time deposits2


27,632


89,225

Cash and cash equivalents


93,578


143,844

1   Relates to bank accounts, which are readily accessible to the Group and bear interest.

2   These deposits have an average maturity of 9 days (as at 31 December 2022: 18 days).

 

Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash on hand and deposits held with banks that are readily convertible into known amounts of cash and which are subject to insignificant risk of changes in value.

 

The fair value of cash and cash equivalents approximates their book value.

 

 

19 Borrowings

 



As at 30 June 2023 (Unaudited)


As at 31 December 2022



Effective
interest rate


Non-current
US$000


Current
US$000


Effective
interest rate


Non-current
US$000


Current
US$000

Secured bank loans


 

 

 

 

 







·    Pre-shipment and short-term loans in Minera Santa Cruz


13.00% to 95.00%


-


5,407


47.25% and 48.00%


-


2,161

·    Mid-term loans in Minera Ares


8.74%


224,999


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