Agnico Eagle Reports First Quarter 2014 Operating and Financial Results – Record Quarterly Gold Production Builds on 2013 Operational Success
Stock Symbol: AEM (NYSE and TSX)
For further information: Investor Relations (416) 947-1212
(All amounts expressed in U.S. dollars unless otherwise noted)
AGNICO EAGLE REPORTS FIRST QUARTER 2014 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL RESULTS – RECORD QUARTERLY GOLD PRODUCTION BUILDS ON 2013 OPERATIONAL SUCCESS
Toronto (May 1, 2014) – Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (NYSE:AEM, TSX:AEM) ("Agnico Eagle" or the “Company”) today reported quarterly net income of $108.9 million, or $0.63 per share for the first quarter of 2014. This result includes a non-cash foreign currency translation gain of $8.3 million ($0.05 per share), non-cash stock option expense of $9.5 million ($0.05 per share) and other non-recurring gains of $3.3 million ($0.02 per share). Excluding these items would result in adjusted net income of $106.8 million, or $0.61 per share. In the first quarter of 2013, the Company reported net income of $23.9 million, or $0.14 per share.
First quarter 2014 cash provided by operating activities was $247.7 million ($193.7 million before changes in non-cash components of working capital), compared to cash provided by operating activities of $146.1 million in the first quarter of 2013 ($134.5 million before changes in non-cash components of working capital).
The higher net income and cash provided by operating activities in 2014 was in spite of lower gold prices. Realized gold prices in the first quarter of 2013 were 23% higher than those realized in the first quarter of 2014. Significantly higher gold production (55%) combined with lower production expense in 2014 were largely responsible for the strong financial results, when compared to the first quarter of 2013.
“The record production for the first quarter of 2014 continues to build on Agnico Eagle’s 2013 operational success. Once again, Meadowbank has been a key contributor to our outstanding production results. Given the strong first quarter performance, we currently expect to exceed the top end of our production guidance and do better than the lower end of our cash cost forecast for 2014” said Sean Boyd, President and Chief Executive Officer.
Operating highlights include:
- Record quarterly gold production – 366,421 ounces at total cash costs1 of $537 per ounce
- Record quarterly gold production at Meadowbank – 156,444 ounces at a total cash cost of $434 per ounce
- Declaration of commercial production at La India on February 1, 2014
- Ventilation and cooling system at LaRonde now fully operational – expected to have a positive impact on operating flexibility especially during the summer
- 2014 production expected to exceed the high end of guidance with costs
expected to be better than the low end of the forecast range
Payable gold production2 in the first quarter of 2014 was 366,421 ounces compared to 236,975 ounces in the first quarter of 2013. The higher level of production in the 2014 period was primarily due to higher grades at Meadowbank, a full quarter of production at Goldex, higher grades and better recoveries at LaRonde, and the ramp-up to commercial production at La India, where commercial production was achieved as of February 2014. A description of the production and cost performance for each mine is set out further below.
Total cash costs for the first quarter of 2014 were $537 per ounce. This compares with $740 per ounce in the first quarter of 2013. The lower costs in the 2014 period were largely attributable to record quarterly production and lower costs at Meadowbank and higher grades at LaRonde.
Given the strong first quarter 2014 production, the Company now expects gold production to exceed the higher end of the 2014 guidance range of 1,175,000 to 1,205,000 ounces, while total cash costs are forecast to be better than the lower end of the guidance range of $670 to $690 per ounce.
As noted in the year-end 2013 results (see February 12, 2014 news release), 2014 production is expected to be higher in the first half of the year, largely due to higher expected grades at Meadowbank. For the full year 2014, the all-in sustaining costs3 are expected to be better than the previously forecast guidance of $990 per ounce.
1 Total cash costs per ounce is a non-GAAP measure. For a reconciliation to production costs, see “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures” below. See also “Note Regarding Certain Measures of Performance”. 2 Payable production of a mineral means the quantity of mineral produced during a period contained in products that are or will be sold by the Company whether such products are shipped during the period or held as inventory at the end of the period.
3 All-in sustaining costs is a non-US GAAP measure and is used to show the full cost of gold production from current operations. The Company calculates all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold produced as the aggregate of total cash costs, sustaining capital expenditures (including capitalized exploration), general and administrative expenses (including stock options) and reclamation expenses divided by the amount of gold produced. The Company’s methodology for calculating all-in sustaining costs may not be similar to the methodology used by other producers that disclose all-in sustaining costs. The Company may change the methodology it uses to calculate all-in sustaining costs in the future, including in response to the adoption of formal industry guidance regarding this measure by the World Gold Council.
Proposed Acquisition of Osisko Mining Corporation
On April 16, 2014, Agnico Eagle and Yamana Gold Inc. (TSX:YRI, NYSE:AUY) (“Yamana”) entered into an agreement to jointly acquire 100% of Osisko Mining Corporation’s (TSX:OSK; Deutsche Boerse:EWX) (“Osisko”) issued and outstanding common shares for total consideration of approximately C$3.9 billion, or C$8.15 per share (the “Osisko Acquisition”). The total offer consists of approximately C$1.0 billion in cash, approximately C$2.33 billion in Agnico Eagle and Yamana shares, and shares of a new company with an implied value of approximately C$575 million.
Upon completion of Osisko Acquisition, Osisko shareholders will hold approximately 16.7% of Agnico Eagle’s shares. Agnico Eagle expects to finance its share of cash consideration (approximately C$500 million) from its $1.2 billion revolving credit facility.
On completion of the Osisko Acquisition, Agnico Eagle will indirectly hold 50% of the Canadian Malartic mine in the Abitibi region of Quebec and the Kirkland Lake, Hammond Reef, Pandora and Wood Pandora properties.
Agnico Eagle has a long history of operating in Quebec and the Osisko Acquisition is a good strategic fit with the Company’s existing production platform in the Abitibi region. The acquisition is expected to enhance the Company’s existing production profile on a per share basis while improving the overall cost structure. Partnering with Yamana allows Agnico Eagle to maintain a strong balance sheet and keep equity dilution low. The transaction fits strategically and is in line with several of Agnico Eagle’s previous acquisitions, but comes without permitting, construction or start-up risk.
Sean Boyd, President and Chief Executive Officer of Agnico Eagle stated: “We look forward to completing the Osisko Acquisition and working with Yamana to integrate the assets into our respective businesses. We expect that the proposed Osisko Acquisition will improve the quality of our Northern Business operations through increased net free cash flow generation.”
A meeting of Osisko shareholders has been scheduled for May 30, 2014, and the Osisko Acquisition is expected to close in early June 2014, following the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. For additional details on the Osisko Acquisition, see Agnico Eagle’s news release dated April 16, 2014.
The Company anticipates accounting for the Osisko Acquisition using the equity method of accounting under US GAAP. The Company has commenced the process of converting its basis of accounting from US GAAP to IFRS and anticipates reporting under IFRS beginning in the third quarter of 2014, with comparative information restated under IFRS. The Company is in the process of evaluating whether to apply proportionate consolidation or the equity method of accounting for the Osisko Acquisition under IFRS.
Unless otherwise stated in the News Release, the forward looking information contained herein, including forward looking information regarding the Company’s production, costs and availability under its revolving credit facility does not include the effect of the Osisko Acquisition.
First Quarter 2014 Results Conference Call and Webcast Tomorrow
The Company’s senior management will host a conference call on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 8:30 AM (E.D.T.) to discuss financial results and provide an update of the Company’s operating activities.
Via Webcast:
A live audio webcast of the meeting will be available on the Company’s website homepage at www.agnicoeagle.com.
Via Telephone:
For those preferring to listen by telephone, please dial 416-644-3414 or Toll-free 1- 800-814-4859. To ensure your participation, please call approximately five minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call.
Replay Archive:
Please dial 416-640-1917 or Toll-free 1-877-289-8525, access code 4661700. The conference call replay will expire on June 2, 2014.
The webcast along with presentation slides will be archived for 180 days on the website.
Annual and Special General Meeting ("AGM")
The AGM will begin on Friday, May 2, 2014 at 11:00 AM (E.D.T). The meeting will be held at the Sheraton Centre Hotel (Dominion Ballroom) located at 123 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON. For those unable to attend in person, the meeting will be accessible on the internet or by telephone, as set out below.
Via Webcast:
A live audio webcast of the meeting will be available on the Company’s website homepage at www.agnicoeagle.com.
Via Telephone:
For those preferring to listen by telephone, please dial 416-644-3415 or Toll-free 1-877- 974-0445. To ensure your participation, please call approximately five minutes prior to the scheduled start of the call.
Replay Archive:
Please dial 416-640-1917 or Toll-free 1-877-289-8525, access code 4661715 The AGM conference call replay will expire on June 2, 2014.
The AGM webcast along with presentation slides will be archived for 180 days on the website.
Cash Position Remains Strong and Debt Levels Reduced
Cash and cash equivalents totaled $206.8 million at March 31, 2014, up from the December 31, 2013 balance of $170.0 million. The increase in the cash balance is largely due to higher realized metal prices, lower costs and record quarterly gold production. The outstanding balance on the $1.2 billion credit facility was reduced from $200 million at December 31, 2013 to $120 million at March 31, 2014.
Capital expenditures in the first quarter of 2014 were $98.8 million, including $21.9 million at Kittila, $15.6 million at LaRonde, $11.1 million at La India, $10.2 million at Meadowbank, $9.5 million at Goldex, $7.3 million at Pinos Altos, $5.7 million at Lapa, and $2.7 million at Creston Mascota. Capital expenditures at development projects included $9.9 million at Meliadine.
Capital expenditures in 2014 are now expected to be $431 million, which is a slight increase to the previous guidance of $416 million (see February 12, 2014 news release) as several new projects were approved. The increase largely reflects approximately $8.0 million of accelerated waste stripping at the Vault deposit at Meadowbank, approximately $3.0 million for ramp development at Goldex, and approximately $1.5 million for productivity improvements at La India. The Company expects that these capital cost increases are likely to be offset by lower operating costs at the respective mines.
With its current cash balances, anticipated cash flows and available bank lines, management believes that Agnico Eagle remains fully funded for the development and exploration of its current pipeline of approved gold projects in Canada, Finland and Mexico, as well as the Osisko Acquisition.
Northern Business Operating Review
LaRonde Mine – Strong Production and Cost Performance – New Ventilation Infrastructure Provides Greater Mining Flexibility
The 100% owned LaRonde mine in northwestern Quebec, Canada, began operation in 1988.
The LaRonde mill processed an average of 6,192 tonnes per day (“tpd”) in the first quarter of 2014, compared with an average of 6,603 tpd in the corresponding period of 2013. The lower mill throughput in the current period was largely due to a temporary six day shutdown of the underground mine in order to investigate a premature blast hole detonation in a stope. In the first quarter of 2014, approximately 79% of the ore milled came from the deeper portion of the LaRonde mine, which is in line with the forecast for 2014. As more ore is sourced from the deeper levels, the mined grade is expected to continue to increase towards the average reserve grade over the next several years.
Minesite costs per tonne4 were on budget at approximately C$99 in the first quarter of 2014. These costs are a slight increase over the C$98 per tonne realized in the first quarter of 2013. The increase in costs is largely due to the temporary shutdown of the underground mine discussed above.
On a per ounce basis, net of byproduct credits, LaRonde’s total cash costs per ounce were $603 in the first quarter of 2014 on production of 59,352 ounces of gold. This compares favourably with the first quarter of 2013 when total cash costs per ounce were $718 on production of 39,073 ounces of gold. The decrease in total cash costs was mainly due to higher production (due to higher gold grades and improved recoveries from the CIP circuit) and lower costs.
The new cooling plant on the 262 level began operating in December 2013 and other components of the new ventilation system were installed and commissioned last month. The new cooling and ventilation infrastructure is expected to enhance productivity in the deeper portions of the mine.
Work is underway on the installation of a coarse ore conveyor system that will extend from the 293 level to the crusher on the 280 level. The new conveyor, which is scheduled to be operational in late 2015, is expected to help lower costs and reduce congestion in the deeper portions of the mine. In addition, construction of a new maintenance truck shop in the deeper portion of the mine is nearing completion.
A three week shutdown is planned at LaRonde in July 2014 to facilitate the installation of new hoist drives to replace obsolete production and service hoist equipment in the Penna shaft. This planned shutdown was factored into our 2014 production guidance for LaRonde.
LaRonde is expected to ramp up production over the next several years to an average life of mine production rate of more than 300,000 ounces of gold per year, reflecting the higher gold grades expected at depth.
Lapa Mine – Continued Steady Performance and Cost Control
The 100% owned Lapa mine in northwestern Quebec achieved commercial production in May 2009.
The Lapa circuit at the LaRonde mill processed an average of 1,749 tpd in the first quarter of 2014. This compares with an average of 1,778 tpd in the first quarter of 2013.
4 Minesite costs per tonne is a non-GAAP measure. For reconciliation to production costs, see “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures” below. See also “Note Regarding Certain Measures of Performance”.
Minesite costs per tonne were C$109 in the first quarter of 2014, compared to C$115 in the first quarter of 2013. The lower minesite cost this quarter is due to lower consumable costs, productivity improvements, lower development costs and lower cement consumption (higher ratio of unconsolidated to cemented backfill) compared to the same period last year.
Payable production in the first quarter of 2014 was 23,409 ounces of gold at total cash costs per ounce of $666. This compares with the first quarter of 2013, when production was 26,868 ounces of gold at total cash cost per ounce of $680. Comparing these two periods, the decrease in gold production and lower total cash costs per ounce in 2014 are generally due to the processing of lower gold grades and the lower costs as discussed above.
Goldex Mine – Optimization Continues to Yield Lower Operating Costs
The 100% owned Goldex mine in northwestern Quebec began operation in 2008 but mining operations in the original Goldex Extension Zone (GEZ) orebody were suspended in October 2011 (see October 19, 2011 news release). Mining operations at GEZ remain suspended. In July 2012, the M and E satellite zones were approved for development.
The Goldex mine achieved commercial production for the M and E satellite zones in October of 2013.
The Goldex mill processed an average of 5,393 tpd in the first quarter of 2014 and throughput is expected to increase to approximately 5,500 tpd in the second half of 2014.
Minesite costs per tonne at Goldex were approximately C$31 in the first quarter of 2014. Given that it is still early in the restart of the operations, the 2014 minesite cost per tonne guidance of C$37 is unchanged. Minesite costs per tonne were significantly lower than forecast primarily due to higher than forecast tonnage, productivity improvements and lower than expected backfill costs.
Payable gold production in the first quarter of 2014 was 19,430 ounces at a total cash cost per ounce of $707. Total cash cost per ounce were lower than guidance forecast due to the reasons outlined above.
Development activities are progressing on the MX and E2 satellite zones. In addition, accelerated development of the exploration ramp into the DX zone (the top of the Deep zone) is underway. This ramp will provide access for additional exploration drilling. These satellite zones could have the potential to further extend the mine's life. Economies of scale may also be available if additional zones are developed as the mill has the ability to operate at over 8,000 tpd. Studies are currently underway to fully evaluate the potential of these zones.
Meadowbank Mine – Record Quarterly Production and Lower Operating Costs
The 100% owned Meadowbank mine is located in Nunavut, Canada.
The Meadowbank mill processed an average of 11,047 tpd in the first quarter of 2014. This compares with 11,320 tpd in the first quarter of 2013. The lower throughput, period over period, was due to scheduled maintenance in the mill to replace the ball and SAG mill liners.
Minesite costs per tonne were C$75 in the first quarter of 2014, compared with C$87 per tonne in the first quarter of 2013. Costs are lower in the 2014 period due to lower expenditures for consumables, improved productivity and ongoing cost reduction efforts.
Payable production in the first quarter of 2014 was 156,444 ounces of gold at total cash costs per ounce of $434. This compares with payable production in the first quarter of 2013 of 81,818 ounces of gold at total cash costs per ounce of $1,069. The improvement in production in the first quarter of 2014 was largely due to higher grades (up 89%) and recoveries (up 3.9%). Costs for the current period decreased mainly due to the higher ounces and the reasons outlined above.
As noted in the year-end 2013 results (See the Company’s February 12, 2014 news release), Meadowbank is expected to have strong production in the first half of 2014 (about 60% of the yearly forecast) as higher grades are sequenced in the mine plan at the Portage and Goose deposits. The Goose pit is expected to be exhausted in the second half of the year and production will be replaced with lower grade ore from the Vault pit. Over the balance of 2014, the average grade at Meadowbank is expected to be in line with the reserve grade.
Kittila Mine – Mill Throughput Continues to be Near Record Levels
The 100% owned Kittila mine in northern Finland achieved commercial production in May 2009.
The Kittila mill processed an average of approximately 3,414 tpd in the first quarter of 2014. In the first quarter of 2013, the Kittila mill processed 2,966 tpd. Throughput for the 2014 period was higher due to the rescheduling of mill maintenance from the first quarter to the second quarter of 2014.
Minesite costs per tonne at Kittila were approximately €73 in the first quarter of 2014, compared to €77 in the first quarter of 2013. The decrease in minesite costs is largely due to the increased throughput as noted above.
First quarter 2014 gold production at Kittila was 38,552 ounces with a total cash cost per ounce of $795. In the first quarter of 2013 the mine produced 43,145 ounces at total cash costs per ounce of $624. Lower production and higher total cash costs in the 2014 period were largely the result of lower grades and recoveries and slightly higher ore dilution compared to the first quarter of 2013.
In February 2013, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a 750 tpd expansion at the Kittila mill, which is expected to be completed by mid-year 2015. The total expenditure on the project is estimated to be about $103 million over a three year period, with approximately $65 million expected to be spent in 2014.
The expansion is progressing according to schedule and manufacturing tests are underway on a number of the new mill components. The expansion is expected to reduce total cash costs per ounce and to offset the production impact of a gradual reduction in realized grade towards the average reserve grade over the next several years.
A study is also underway to consider the construction of a production shaft at Kittila. This shaft would provide operating cost savings and sustain long-term production at higher throughput levels from multiple zones, especially at depths below 700 metres. A shaft would also provide access for exploration and infill drilling. In addition, a study is underway to evaluate the feasibility to develop the Rimpi Zone as a potential ore source. An update on these activities is expected later this year.
Meliadine – Ramp Development, Exploration and Permitting Activities Continue
Underground development, exploration, technical studies and permitting have continued in the first quarter of 2014 at Agnico Eagle’s 100%-owned Meliadine gold development project near Rankin Inlet, Nunavut. The Meliadine project has the Company’s largest and fastest-growing high-grade complement of reserves and resources. (See the Detailed Mineral Reserve and Resource Data in the Company’s February 12, 2014 news release.)
Late in 2013, a permanent portal was completed for the existing exploration ramp north of the Tiriganiaq zone, and the ramp was extended by 80 metres. Ramp development continued in the first quarter of 2014, adding 226 metres. The full-year budget calls for approximately 1.4 kilometers of ramp development (to a depth of 275 metres below surface).
Three drill rigs are active on a surface drill program, which began in late February, one month ahead of schedule. The rigs completed 27 holes (7,107 metres) of conversion drilling (Wesmeg/Normeg zone) and exploration drilling (Wesmeg/Normeg and Pump zones) to the end of March. Additional condemnation/geotechnical drilling in an area of proposed mine site facilities is also planned. While no results are available yet, significant new gold mineralization was discovered in the western extension of the Pump zone, showing its potential to host additional high-grade resources. In March the underground delineation drill program began, using one rig at 75 metres depth. This program is helping to refine the geological model of the Tiriganiaq zone.
Work continues on the updated technical report, scheduled for completion in late 2014. The permitting team is preparing documents for the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS), with a target completion date in the second quarter of 2014.
Southern Business Operating Review Pinos Altos Mine – Strong Performance Continues
The 100% owned Pinos Altos mine in northern Mexico achieved commercial production in November 2009.
The Pinos Altos mill processed 5,382 tpd in the first quarter of 2014, compared to 5,250 tpd per day processed in the first quarter of 2013. During the first quarter of 2014, approximately 139,100 tonnes of ore were stacked on the leach pad at Pinos Altos, compared to 253,500 tonnes in the comparable 2013 period.
Minesite cost per tonne at Pinos Altos was $47 in the first quarter of 2014 compared to $41 in the comparable 2013 period. The increase in minesite costs is largely due to the decreased proportion of relatively lower cost heap leach ore being stacked in 2014.
Payable production in the first quarter of 2014 was 45,217 ounces of gold at a cash cost per ounce of $450. This compares with production of 44,164 ounces at a total cash cost of $300 in the first quarter of 2013. Higher production in 2014 is largely due to slightly higher grades processed over the comparable period last year. The increase in the year over year total cash cost per ounce is largely due to a 25% decrease in byproduct silver production and lower realized silver prices compared to the prior year period.
Work at the Pinos Altos shaft sinking project was mainly focused on hoist commissioning and change-over activities during the quarter in preparation for the continuation of shaft sinking. This project will allow better matching of the mill capacity with the future mining capacity at Pinos Altos when the open pit mining operation begins to wind down as planned in the next several years.
Creston Mascota - Phase 3 Leach Pad Construction Completed
The Creston Mascota heap leach has been operating as a satellite operation to the Pinos Altos mine since late 2010. Operations at Creston Mascota resumed in April 2013 after a temporary suspension for leach pad modifications. Production since this resumption has met Company expectations and is in line with guidance.
Approximately 378,900 tonnes of ore were stacked on the Creston Mascota leach pad during the first quarter of 2014, compared to approximately 230,400 tonnes stacked in the first quarter of 2013. Minesite costs per tonne at Creston Mascota were $17 in the first quarter of 2014. Minesite costs per tonne for the comparable period of 2013 are not applicable given that operations were temporarily suspended for leach pad modifications.
Payable gold production at Creston Mascota in the first quarter of 2014 was 10,317 ounces at a total cash cost per ounce of $613. This compares to 1,907 ounces during the first quarter of 2013. The lower production in the 2013 period is due to the suspension of operations referred to above. The total cash costs per ounce for the comparable period of 2013 are not representative given the temporary suspension of operations discussed above.
Construction on the Phase 3 leach pad at Creston Mascota was completed in late April 2014. Production at Creston Mascota is expected to increase in the latter half of 2014 as the new agglomerator, planned for installation in the second quarter of 2014, will increase crushed ore processing capacity.
La India Mine – Commercial Production Achieved in First Quarter 2014
The La India mine in Sonora, Mexico, located approximately 70 kilometres from the Company's Pinos Altos mine, was acquired in November 2011 through the purchase of Grayd Resources which included a 56,000 hectare land position in the Mulatos Gold belt. Commissioning of the mine commenced ahead of schedule in the third quarter of 2013. Design, permitting, construction and start-up of the La India mine were completed within 22 months of the acquisition and the project was on target with regard to the budgeted capital cost of $157.6 million. Commercial production at La India was achieved as at February 1, 2014.
Approximately 1,018,900 tonnes of ore were stacked on the La India leach pad during the first quarter of 2014 which yielded 3,492 ounces of pre-commercial gold production. Stacking rates averaged approximately 11,321 tpd during the quarter. An additional $1.5 million in capital spending has been budgeted for productivity improvements.
Payable commercial gold production in the first quarter of 2014 was 10,208 ounces at a total cash cost per ounce of $426. Full year 2014 guidance is 50,000 ounces at a total cash cost of $743. During the ramp-up phase total cash costs were favourable due to slightly higher head grades and lower stripping costs compared to anticipated levels. The current total cash costs per ounce are subject to verification with further operating history and as such 2014 cost guidance remains unchanged.
Dividend Record and Payment Dates for the Second Quarter of 2014
The Board of Directors of the Company has approved the payment of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.08 per common share. The next of these dividends will be paid on June 16, 2014 to shareholders of record as of June 2, 2014.
Other Expected Dividend and Record Dates for 2014
| Record Date | Payment Date |
| Sept. 2 | Sept. 16 |
| Dec. 1 | Dec. 15 |
Dividend Reinvestment Program
Please follow the link below for information on the Company’s dividend reinvestment program.
Dividend Reinvestment Plan
About Agnico Eagle
Agnico Eagle is a senior Canadian gold mining company that has produced precious metals since 1957. Its seven mines are located in Canada, Finland and Mexico, with exploration and development activities in each of these regions as well as in the United States. The Company and its shareholders have full exposure to gold prices due to its long-standing policy of no forward gold sales. Agnico Eagle has declared a cash dividend every year since 1983.
Note Regarding Certain Measures of Performance
This news release discloses certain measures, including ‘‘total cash costs per ounce’’ and ‘‘minesite costs per tonne’’ that are not recognized measures under US GAAP. This data may not be comparable to data presented by other gold producers. For a reconciliation of these measures to the most directly comparable financial information presented in the consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with US GAAP and for an explanation of how management uses these measures, see “Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Performance Measures” below. The Company believes that the generally accepted industry measures that it uses are realistic indicators of operating performance and are useful in allowing year over year comparisons. However, non-US GAAP measures should be considered together with other data prepared in accordance with US GAAP, and such measures, taken by themselves, are not necessarily indicative of operating costs or income measures prepared in accordance with US GAAP. This news release also contains information as to estimated future total cash costs per ounce, all-in sustaining costs and minesite costs per tonne. The estimates are based upon the total cash costs per ounce, all-in sustaining costs and minesite costs per tonne that the Company expects to incur to mine gold at its mines and projects and, consistent with the reconciliation of these actual costs referred to above, do not include production costs attributable to accretion expense and other asset retirement costs, which will vary over time as each project is developed and mined. It is therefore not practicable to reconcile these forward-looking non-US GAAP financial measures to the most comparable US GAAP measure.