Alamos Gold Inc. (TSX:AGI) (NYSE:AGI) today reported its financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.
“We achieved a number of operational and financial records in the third quarter. Production increased to a record 152,000 ounces reflecting the addition of Magino and continued strong performances from Island Gold and Mulatos. With growing gold production and record gold prices, we generated record revenue and cash flow from operations before working capital, supporting strong ongoing free cash flow while funding our high-return growth initiatives,” said John A. McCluskey, President and Chief Executive Officer.
“The addition of Magino has enhanced our strong outlook, increasing our near-term production rate by approximately 20%, and providing longer-term growth opportunities through expansions of the Island Gold District. We are making excellent progress on our growth projects with the Phase 3+ Expansion more than halfway complete, and the recently announced development plan for PDA outlining another low-cost, high-return project that will triple the mine life of Mulatos. Both projects are key drivers of our strong outlook, supporting growing production at declining costs over the coming years,” Mr. McCluskey added.
Third Quarter 2024 Operational and Financial Highlights
(1) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures.
Highlight Summary
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||
2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||
Financial Results (in millions) | ||||||||
Operating revenues | $360.9 | $256.2 | $971.1 | $768.7 | ||||
Cost of sales (1) | $204.0 | $158.0 | $550.2 | $471.0 | ||||
Earnings from operations | $183.3 | $82.6 | $403.5 | $246.2 | ||||
Earnings before income taxes | $141.2 | $78.2 | $345.0 | $242.5 | ||||
Net earnings | $84.5 | $39.4 | $196.7 | $162.9 | ||||
Adjusted net earnings (2) | $78.1 | $54.5 | $225.7 | $159.2 | ||||
Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (2) |
$176.2 | $125.4 | $484.3 | $383.7 | ||||
Cash provided by operations before working capital and taxes paid (2) | $192.8 | $133.2 | $518.3 | $398.7 | ||||
Cash provided by operating activities | $165.5 | $112.5 | $468.9 | $348.6 | ||||
Capital expenditures (sustaining) (2)(3) | $38.1 | $27.3 | $85.5 | $77.6 | ||||
Capital expenditures (growth) (2) | $67.9 | $41.9 | $178.3 | $143.7 | ||||
Capital expenditures (capitalized exploration) | $6.2 | $6.0 | $20.5 | $17.9 | ||||
Free cash flow (2) | $87.5 | $37.3 | $218.8 | $109.4 | ||||
Operating Results | ||||||||
Gold production (ounces) | 152,000 | 135,400 | 426,800 | 399,800 | ||||
Gold sales (ounces) | 145,204 | 132,633 | 418,976 | 397,253 | ||||
Per Ounce Data | ||||||||
Average realized gold price | $2,458 | $1,932 | $2,294 | $1,935 | ||||
Average spot gold price (London PM Fix) | $2,475 | $1,928 | $2,296 | $1,931 | ||||
Cost of sales per ounce of gold sold (includes amortization) (1) |
$1,405 | $1,191 | $1,313 | $1,186 | ||||
Total cash costs per ounce of gold sold (2) | $984 | $835 | $909 | $834 | ||||
All-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (2) | $1,425 | $1,121 | $1,263 | $1,136 | ||||
Share Data | ||||||||
Earnings per share, basic | $0.20 | $0.10 | $0.49 | $0.41 | ||||
Earnings per share, diluted | $0.20 | $0.10 | $0.48 | $0.41 | ||||
Adjusted earnings per share, basic (2) | $0.19 | $0.14 | $0.56 | $0.40 | ||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding (basic) (000’s) | 417,147 | 396,117 | 404,127 | 395,149 | ||||
Financial Position (in millions) | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $291.6 | $224.8 |
(1) Cost of sales includes mining and processing costs, royalties, and amortization expense.
(2) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures.
(3) Sustaining capital expenditures include sustaining capital lease expenditures at Magino, which are not included as additions to mineral property, plant and equipment in cash flows used from investing activities.
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||
2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||
Gold production (ounces) | ||||||||
Young-Davidson | 44,200 | 45,100 | 128,300 | 135,300 | ||||
Island Gold | 40,500 | 36,400 | 115,600 | 99,800 | ||||
Magino (8) | 16,800 | — | 16,800 | — | ||||
Mulatos District (7) | 50,500 | 53,900 | 166,100 | 164,700 | ||||
Gold sales (ounces) | ||||||||
Young-Davidson | 42,966 | 45,498 | 127,833 | 134,744 | ||||
Island Gold | 38,679 | 35,255 | 112,575 | 97,165 | ||||
Magino (8) | 14,766 | — | 14,766 | — | ||||
Mulatos District | 48,793 | 51,880 | 163,802 | 165,344 | ||||
Cost of sales (in millions) (1) | ||||||||
Young-Davidson | $63.9 | $62.4 | $196.0 | $183.6 | ||||
Island Gold | $33.4 | $31.3 | $97.5 | $89.8 | ||||
Magino (8) | $38.5 | — | $38.5 | — | ||||
Mulatos District | $68.2 | $64.3 | $218.2 | $197.6 | ||||
Cost of sales per ounce of gold sold (includes amortization) (1) | ||||||||
Young-Davidson | $1,487 | $1,371 | $1,533 | $1,363 | ||||
Island Gold | $864 | $888 | $866 | $924 | ||||
Magino (8) | $2,607 | — | $2,607 | — | ||||
Mulatos District | $1,398 | $1,239 | $1,332 | $1,195 | ||||
Total cash costs per ounce of gold sold (2) | ||||||||
Young-Davidson | $1,033 | $939 | $1,080 | $945 | ||||
Island Gold | $592 | $610 | $592 | $636 | ||||
Magino (8) | $2,025 | — | $2,025 | — | ||||
Mulatos District | $937 | $898 | $892 | $861 | ||||
Mine-site all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (2),(3) | ||||||||
Young-Davidson | $1,406 | $1,178 | $1,358 | $1,207 | ||||
Island Gold | $794 | $916 | $892 | $980 | ||||
Magino (8) | $3,007 | — | $3,007 | — | ||||
Mulatos District | $1,002 | $1,045 | $954 | $948 | ||||
Capital expenditures (sustaining, growth, and capitalized exploration) (in millions) (2) | ||||||||
Young-Davidson (4) | $25.6 | $12.3 | $64.8 | $43.2 | ||||
Island Gold (5) | $62.6 | $47.5 | $173.3 | $159.2 | ||||
Magino (8)(9) | $13.9 | — | $13.9 | — | ||||
Mulatos District (6) | $3.1 | $9.8 | $14.8 | $22.0 | ||||
Other | $7.0 | $5.6 | $17.5 | $14.8 |
(1) Cost of sales includes mining and processing costs, royalties, and amortization expense.
(2) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures.
(3) For the purposes of calculating mine-site all-in sustaining costs, the Company does not include an allocation of corporate and administrative and share-based compensation expenses.
(4) Includes capitalized exploration at Young-Davidson of $1.5 million and $3.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 ($1.2 million and $3.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023).
(5) Includes capitalized exploration at Island Gold of $3.8 million and $10.7 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 ($2.4 million and $7.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023).
(6) Includes capitalized exploration at Mulatos District of $0.9 million and $5.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 ($2.4 million and $6.3 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023).
(7) The Mulatos District includes La Yaqui Grande and Mulatos.
(8) The results for Magino are for Alamos’ ownership period from July 12, 2024 to September 30, 2024.
(9) Sustaining capital expenditures for Magino include certain finance leases classified as sustaining.
Environment, Social and Governance Summary Performance
Health and Safety
During the third quarter of 2024, Alamos had 23 recordable injuries across its sites including one lost time injury.
Alamos strives to maintain a safe, healthy working environment for all, with a strong safety culture where everyone is continually reminded of the importance of keeping themselves and their colleagues healthy and injury-free. The Company’s overarching commitment is to have all employees and contractors return Home Safe Every Day.
Environment
The three minor reportable events during the third quarter at Young-Davidson, including a 200 litre diesel spill, a minor spill while containing an excavator fire, and one exceedance of the daily limit of suspended solids. The areas impacted by the spills were immediately contained and subsequently remediated with no anticipated long-term effects for either event.
The Company is committed to preserving the long-term health and viability of the natural environment that surrounds its operations and projects. This includes investing in new initiatives to reduce the Company’s environmental footprint with the goal of minimizing the impacts of our activities.
Community
Ongoing donations, medical support and infrastructure investments were provided to local communities, including:
The Company believes that excellence in sustainability provides a net benefit to all stakeholders. The Company continues to engage with local communities to understand local challenges and priorities. Ongoing investments in local infrastructure, health care, education, cultural and community programs remain a focus of the Company.
Governance and Disclosure
The Company maintains the highest standards of corporate governance to ensure that corporate decision-making reflects its values, including the Company’s commitment to sustainable development.
(1) Frequency rate is calculated as incidents per 200,000 hours worked.
Outlook and Strategy
2024 Guidance(1) | |||||||||
Young-Davidson | Island Gold | Magino (1) | Mulatos | Lynn Lake | Total | Total Previous (5) |
|||
Gold production (000’s ounces) | 180 – 190 | 145 – 155 | 40-50 | 185 – 195 | — | 550 – 590 | 485 – 525 | ||
Cost of sales, including amortization (in millions)(4) | $745 | $620 | |||||||
Cost of sales, including amortization ($ per ounce)(3) | $1,310 | $1,225 | |||||||
Total cash costs ($ per ounce)(1) | $1,000 – $1,050 | $550 – $600 | $1,450 – $1,550 | $925 -$975 | — | $890 – $940 | $825 – 875 | ||
All-in sustaining costs ($ per ounce)(1) | $1,250 – $1,300 | $1,125 – 1,175 | |||||||
Mine-site all-in sustaining costs ($ per ounce)(2)(3) | $1,225 – $1,275 | $875 – $925 | $2,250 – $2,350 | $1,000 – $1,050 | — | ||||
Capital expenditures (in millions) | |||||||||
Sustaining capital(2) | $40 – $45 | $50 – $55 | $35 – $40 | $3 – $5 | — | $128 – $145 | $93 – 105 | ||
Growth capital(2) | $20 – $25 | $180 – $200 | — | $2 – $5 | — | $202 – $230 | $232 – 260 | ||
Total Sustaining and Growth Capital (2) – producing mines | $60 – $70 | $230 – $255 | $35 – $40 | $5 – $10 | — | $330 – $375 | $325 – 365 | ||
Growth capital – development projects | $25 | $25 | $25 | ||||||
Capitalized exploration(2) | $10 | $13 | $2 | $9 | $9 | $43 | $41 | ||
Total capital expenditures and capitalized exploration(1) | $70 – $80 | $243 – $268 | $37 – 42 | $14 – $19 | $34 | $398 – $443 | $391 – 431 | ||
(1) Guidance has been updated as per press release dated September 12, 2024. The guidance for the Magino mine is for Alamos’ ownership period from July 12, 2024 to December 31, 2024.
(2) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description of these measures.
(3) For the purposes of calculating mine-site all-in sustaining costs at individual mine sites, the Company does not include an allocation of corporate and administrative and share-based compensation expenses to the mine sites.
(4) Cost of sales includes mining and processing costs, royalties, and amortization expense, and is calculated based on the mid-point of total cash cost guidance.
(5) Previous guidance was issued on January 10, 2024 and related to Young-Davidson, Island Gold and Mulatos District only.
The Company’s objective is to operate a sustainable business model that supports growing returns to all stakeholders over the long-term, through growing production, expanding margins, and increasing profitability. This includes a balanced approach to capital allocation focused on generating strong ongoing free cash flow while re-investing in high-return internal growth opportunities and supporting higher returns to shareholders.
The Company delivered another record operational and financial performance in the third quarter of 2024. Production increased 9% from the second quarter to a record 152,000 ounces, reflecting the inclusion of the recently acquired Magino mine, and strong performances from Island Gold and the Mulatos District.
Through record production, sales, and gold prices, third quarter revenues increased 9% from the second quarter and 41% from the prior year to a record $360.9 million. This contributed to strong ongoing operating margins, with $87.5 million of free cash flow generated in the quarter, and $218.8 million year-to-date while continuing to fund the Phase 3+ Expansion at Island Gold.
Production in the fourth quarter of 2024 is expected to be between 140,000 and 145,000 ounces at slightly lower costs, reflecting improved performance at Magino, offset by lower expected production at Mulatos. With a solid performance through the first nine months of the year, the Company remains well-positioned to achieve its updated full year production and cost guidance.
The integration of the Magino and Island Gold mines is well-advanced following the completion of the Argonaut acquisition in July. Given the close proximity of the Magino and Island Gold mines, the integration of the two operations is expected to create one of the largest and lowest cost gold mines in Canada and drive pre-tax synergies of approximately $515 million over the life of the mine through the use of shared infrastructure. This includes immediate capital savings, with the mill and tailings expansions at Island Gold no longer required, and significant operating savings through the use of the larger and more efficient Magino mill.
The acquisition has also de-risked the Phase 3+ Expansion, which continues to progress well. The shaft sink is down to a depth of 812 metres as of the end of October, more than halfway towards its ultimate planned depth of 1,373 metres. The expansion remains on track to be completed during the first half of 2026, which will be a significant driver of further free cash flow growth over the longer-term through increasing production and declining costs.
The integration of Island Gold and Magino has also created opportunities for further growth within the Island Gold District. Several of these opportunities were highlighted in the Island Gold District exploration update in July. Underground and surface exploration programs continue to extend high-grade mineralization beyond the extent of the main Island Gold deposit, as well as within the hanging wall and footwall. This is expected to drive another increase in high-grade Mineral Reserves and Resources at Island Gold. Near-mine exploration success also highlighted the longer-term upside opportunities to supply multiple sources of ore through the expanded Magino mill.
The Company continued to advance its other high-return internal growth opportunities during the quarter including completing the development plan for the PDA project in September. PDA is an attractive, low-cost, high-return underground project with an estimated after-tax IRR of 46% at a conservative $1,950 per ounce gold price and increasing to 73% at $2,500 per ounce. Based on its existing Mineral Reserves, PDA is expected to triple the Mulatos District mine life to 2035.
As outlined in the Mulatos District exploration update in September, there are excellent opportunities to enhance already strong economics and further extend the mine life. Drilling at PDA continues to extend high-grade mineralization and is expected to support further growth in Mineral Reserves and Resources. Additionally, drilling has defined multiple new high-grade zones below the previously mined Cerro Pelon open pit which represents a potential source of additional mill feed. An initial underground Mineral Resource at Cerro Pelon is expected with the year-end 2024 update.
The Company provided updated three-year production, operating and capital guidance in September incorporating the recently acquired Magino mine, a revised initial capital estimate for the Phase 3+ Expansion at Island Gold and initial capital estimates for PDA. Production guidance for 2024 was raised to between 550,000 and 590,000 ounces, a 13% increase from the initial guidance provided in January 2024 (based on the mid-point). The increase was driven by the inclusion of Magino, as well as increased production guidance for the Mulatos District. AISC guidance was also increased 11% relative to previous guidance, (based on the mid-point) with nearly all of the increase attributable to the inclusion of relatively higher cost production from Magino during the ramp up of the operation. Capital guidance for 2024 increased by 2% relative to previous guidance reflecting the addition of Magino, largely offset by capital savings at Island Gold through the integration of the two operations.
As previously announced, production guidance was also increased 21% for 2025, and 22% for 2026 to between 630,000 and 680,000 ounces reflecting the inclusion of Magino. AISC increased 12% on average but remains well below the industry average and are expected to decrease 10% from 2024 to between $1,100 and $1,200 per ounce in 2026. Through the development of Lynn Lake, the Company has the capacity to increase longer-term production to approximately 900,000 ounces per year with AISC decreasing below $1,100 per ounce. An evaluation of a longer-term expansion of the Magino mill to 15,000 to 20,000 tonnes per day is also underway which could support additional growth bringing production closer to one million ounces per year.
The Company remains well positioned to fund this growth internally with $291.6 million of cash and cash equivalents at the end of the third quarter, $542 million of total liquidity, and strong ongoing free cash flow. Cash and cash equivalents decreased slightly from the second quarter reflecting one-time expenditures related to the Argonaut acquisition. Additionally, the Company withdrew $250 million from its credit facility during the third quarter and used existing cash to repay the term loan, revolving credit facility, convertible debentures and gold prepaid advances, totaling $308.3 million, all inherited as part of the Argonaut acquisition.
Third Quarter 2024 Results
Young-Davidson Financial and Operational Review
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||
2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||
Gold production (ounces) | 44,200 | 45,100 | 128,300 | 135,300 | ||||||||
Gold sales (ounces) | 42,966 | 45,498 | 127,833 | 134,744 | ||||||||
Financial Review (in millions) | ||||||||||||
Operating Revenues | $106.0 | $87.9 | $294.8 | $260.5 | ||||||||
Cost of sales (1) | $63.9 | $62.4 | $196.0 | $183.6 | ||||||||
Earnings from operations | $98.4 | $24.5 | $153.8 | $74.4 | ||||||||
Cash provided by operating activities | $61.5 | $43.2 | $155.4 | $125.8 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (sustaining) (2) | $15.8 | $10.8 | $35.1 | $35.1 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (growth) (2) | $8.3 | $0.3 | $25.8 | $4.3 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (capitalized exploration) (2) | $1.5 | $1.2 | $3.9 | $3.8 | ||||||||
Mine-site free cash flow (2) | $35.9 | $30.9 | $90.6 | $82.6 | ||||||||
Cost of sales, including amortization per ounce of gold sold (1) | $1,487 | $1,371 | $1,533 | $1,363 | ||||||||
Total cash costs per ounce of gold sold (2) | $1,033 | $939 | $1,080 | $945 | ||||||||
Mine-site all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (2),(3) | $1,406 | $1,178 | $1,358 | $1,207 | ||||||||
Underground Operations | ||||||||||||
Tonnes of ore mined | 663,295 | 733,413 | 2,047,922 | 2,190,418 | ||||||||
Tonnes of ore mined per day | 7,210 | 7,972 | 7,474 | 8,024 | ||||||||
Average grade of gold (4) | 2.11 | 2.06 | 2.08 | 2.14 | ||||||||
Metres developed | 2,220 | 2,108 | 6,320 | 7,041 | ||||||||
Mill Operations | ||||||||||||
Tonnes of ore processed | 668,058 | 754,705 | 2,059,483 | 2,153,377 | ||||||||
Tonnes of ore processed per day | 7,261 | 8,203 | 7,516 | 7,888 | ||||||||
Average grade of gold (4) | 2.07 | 2.08 | 2.07 | 2.14 | ||||||||
Contained ounces milled | 44,555 | 50,393 | 136,996 | 148,380 | ||||||||
Average recovery rate | 92 | % | 90 | % | 91 | % | 90 | % |
(1) Cost of sales includes mining and processing costs, royalties and amortization.
(2) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures.
(3) For the purposes of calculating mine-site all-in sustaining costs, the Company does not include an allocation of corporate and administrative and share-based compensation expenses.
(4) Grams per tonne of gold (“g/t Au”).
Operational review
Young-Davidson produced 44,200 ounces of gold in the third quarter, 2% lower than the prior year period due to lower tonnes processed. Production for the first nine months of the year totaled 128,300 ounces. With higher mining rates and grades expected to drive stronger production in the fourth quarter, Young-Davidson is expected to achieve the low-end of full year guidance.
Mining rates averaged 7,210 tonnes per day in the third quarter, 10% lower than the prior year period, reflecting lower scoop availability, as well as reduced paste availability during mill downtime in July. Mining rates improved in August and September and returned to guided levels of 8,000 tpd by the end of the quarter. Mining rates are expected to remain at this level through the rest of the year. Given the lower tonnes mined during the third quarter, higher-grade stopes planned for later in the quarter were deferred to the fourth quarter. Grades mined are expected to increase in the fourth quarter to be consistent with annual guidance.
Milling rates averaged 7,261 tpd in the third quarter, consistent with mining rates and 11% lower than the prior year period. Milling rates were lower in July due to a scheduled liner change and other unscheduled mill maintenance. Milling rates returned to planned levels in August and September, averaging 8,000 tpd. Mill recoveries averaged 92% in the quarter, consistent with annual guidance and slightly higher than the prior year period.
Financial Review
Revenues increased to $106.0 million in the third quarter, 21% higher than the prior year period, driven by higher realized gold prices, partially offset by lower ounces sold. Similarly, for the first nine months of the year, revenues of $294.8 million were 13% higher than the prior year period with higher realized gold prices partially offset by lower ounces sold.
Cost of sales were $63.9 million in the third quarter, marginally higher than the prior year period. For the first nine months of the year, cost of sales were $196.0 million, a 7% increase compared to the prior year period, primarily driven by labour inflation.
Total cash costs were $1,033 per ounce in the third quarter, an 10% increase compared to the prior year period as a result of higher unit mining costs impacted by lower mining rates. Total cash costs were $1,080 per ounce for the first nine months of the year, higher than the prior year period due to lower grades milled.
Mine-site AISC were $1,406 per ounce for the third quarter, above full year guidance, and a 19% increase compared to the prior year period due to higher total cash costs, as well as increased sustaining capital expenditures across lower ounces sold. For the first nine months of the year, mine-site AISC averaged $1,358 per ounce, above the prior year period, reflecting higher total cash costs. Total cash costs and AISC are expected to improve in the fourth quarter reflecting higher tonnes and grades milled.
Capital expenditures in the third quarter totaled $25.6 million, including $15.8 million of sustaining capital and $8.3 million of growth capital. Additionally, $1.5 million was invested in capitalized exploration during the quarter. Capital expenditures, inclusive of capitalized exploration, totaled $64.8 million for the first nine months of 2024.
Young-Davidson generated mine-site free cash flow of $35.9 million in the third quarter, and with $90.6 million realized through the first nine months of the year, the operation is on track to generate record free cash flow of over $100 million for the fourth consecutive year.
Island Gold Financial and Operational Review
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||
2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||
Gold production (ounces) | 40,500 | 36,400 | 115,600 | 99,800 | ||||||||
Gold sales (ounces) | 38,679 | 35,255 | 112,575 | 97,165 | ||||||||
Financial Review (in millions) | ||||||||||||
Operating Revenues | $95.1 | $68.1 | $259.2 | $187.8 | ||||||||
Cost of sales (1) | $33.4 | $31.3 | $97.5 | $89.8 | ||||||||
Earnings from operations | $60.4 | $35.6 | $157.7 | $95.2 | ||||||||
Cash provided by operating activities | $75.7 | $38.3 | $187.4 | $125.0 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (sustaining) (2) | $7.7 | $10.6 | $33.4 | $33.0 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (growth) (2) | $51.1 | $34.5 | $129.2 | $118.4 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (capitalized exploration) (2) | $3.8 | $2.4 | $10.7 | $7.8 | ||||||||
Mine-site free cash flow (2) | $13.1 | ($9.2 | ) | $14.1 | ($34.2 | ) | ||||||
Cost of sales, including amortization per ounce of gold sold (1) | $864 | $888 | $866 | $924 | ||||||||
Total cash costs per ounce of gold sold (2) | $592 | $610 | $592 | $636 | ||||||||
Mine-site all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (2),(3) | $794 | $916 | $892 | $980 | ||||||||
Underground Operations | ||||||||||||
Tonnes of ore mined | 82,132 | 113,682 | 283,706 | 322,646 | ||||||||
Tonnes of ore mined per day (“tpd”) | 893 | 1,236 | 1,035 | 1,182 | ||||||||
Average grade of gold (4) | 14.61 | 9.94 | 12.92 | 9.59 | ||||||||
Metres developed | 1,338 | 2,063 | 4,713 | 6,301 | ||||||||
Mill Operations | ||||||||||||
Tonnes of ore processed | 82,446 | 113,061 | 282,364 | 322,568 | ||||||||
Tonnes of ore processed per day | 896 | 1,229 | 1,031 | 1,182 | ||||||||
Average grade of gold (4) | 14.42 | 10.11 | 12.97 | 9.74 | ||||||||
Contained ounces milled | 38,218 | 36,767 | 117,764 | 101,029 | ||||||||
Average recovery rate | 99 | % | 97 | % | 98 | % | 97 | % |
(1) Cost of sales includes mining and processing costs, royalties, and amortization.
(2) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures.
(3) For the purposes of calculating mine-site all-in sustaining costs, the Company does not include an allocation of corporate and administrative and share-based compensation expenses.
(4) Grams per tonne of gold (“g/t Au”).
Operational review
Island Gold produced 40,500 ounces in the third quarter of 2024, an 11% increase from the prior year period, driven by a significant increase in grades processed. Production for the first nine months of the year was 115,600 ounces, a 16% increase compared to the prior year period, also reflecting higher grades processed.
Underground mining rates averaged 893 tpd in the third quarter, a 28% decrease from the prior year period. As previously guided, mining rates were below annual guidance due to scheduled downtime in July to upgrade the underground ventilation infrastructure. The ventilation upgrade was successful; however, the ramp up of mining rates post completion of the upgrade in August was slower than anticipated but back to planned rates by the end of the month.
Mining rates increased to average 1,200 tpd in September and October, and are expected to remain at similar levels in the fourth quarter. The upgrade to the ventilation infrastructure was completed as part of the Phase 3+ Expansion project and will support increased development rates in the near term and higher underground mining rates over the longer term, following the completion of the expansion.
Grades mined averaged 14.61 g/t Au in the third quarter, 47% higher than in the prior year period, reflecting the increased contribution of higher-grade stopes within the 1025 mining horizon, as well as positive grade reconciliation. Grades are expected to return to within guided levels in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Mill throughput averaged 896 tpd for the quarter, consistent with the lower mining rates. Mill recoveries averaged 98.5% in the third quarter reflecting the higher grades processed.
In advance of the planned transition to a single optimized mill at the Island Gold District, 5,700 tonnes of Island Gold lower grade ore was blended with Magino ore through the Magino mill during the quarter. The batch test was successful with recoveries in-line with expectations and consistent with annual guidance for Island Gold ore of 97%. Optimization of the Magino mill is well underway with upgrades to the crushing circuit expected to be completed by year-end, after which ore from the Island Gold mine will be processed in the significantly larger and more cost-effective mill.
Financial Review
Revenues of $95.1 million in the third quarter were 40% higher than the prior year period, driven by the higher realized gold price and increase in ounces sold. Similarly, revenues of $259.2 million during the first nine months of the year were 38% higher than the prior year period.
Cost of sales of $33.4 million in the third quarter and $97.5 million for the first nine months of the year were 7% and 9% higher than the prior year period, respectively, due to the increase in gold ounces sold. On a per ounce basis, cost of sales were 3% and 6% lower in the third quarter and first nine months of 2024, respectively, as compared to the prior year periods due to higher grades processed.
Total cash costs were $592 per ounce in both the third quarter and the first nine months of the year, lower than the prior year periods and consistent with guidance. Mine-site AISC of $794 per ounce and $892 per ounce for the third quarter and first nine months of the year, respectively, were lower than the prior year periods, driven by higher grades processed. Costs for the full year are expected to be in line with annual guidance.
Total capital expenditures were $62.6 million in the third quarter, including $51.1 million of growth capital and $3.8 million of capitalized exploration. Growth capital spending remained primarily focused on the Phase 3+ Expansion shaft site infrastructure, paste plant, and shaft sinking, which advanced to a depth of 700 m by the end of the third quarter and is tracking well to plan. Additionally, following the completion of the acquisition of the Magino mine in the third quarter, detailed engineering commenced on the Magino mill expansion to 12,400 tpd. The expansion of the Magino mill is expected to be completed by mid-2026 to coincide with the completion of the Phase 3+ Expansion at Island Gold.
Mine-site free cash flow was $13.1 million for the third quarter despite the significant capital investment related to the Phase 3+ Expansion. At current gold prices, cash flow generated at Island Gold is expected to continue funding the Phase 3+ Expansion capital. The operation is expected to generate significant free cash flow from 2026 onward with the completion of the expansion.
Magino Mine Financial and Operational Review
July 12 – September 30, | |||
2024 | |||
Gold production (ounces) | 16,800 | ||
Gold sales (ounces) | 14,766 | ||
Financial Review (in millions) | |||
Operating Revenues | $37.0 | ||
Cost of sales (1) | $38.5 | ||
Loss from operations | ($1.8 | ) | |
Cash used by operating activities | ($13.6 | ) | |
Capital expenditures (sustaining) (2) | $8.5 | ||
Capital leases (sustaining) (2),(5) | $5.4 | ||
Capital expenditures (growth) (2) | $— | ||
Capital expenditures (capitalized exploration) (2) | $— | ||
Mine-site free cash flow (2),(5) | ($22.1 | ) | |
Cost of sales, including amortization per ounce of gold sold (1) | $2,607 | ||
Total cash costs per ounce of gold sold (2) | $2,025 | ||
Mine-site all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (2),(3) | $3,007 | ||
Open Pit Operations | |||
Tonnes of ore mined – open pit (4) | 818,237 | ||
Tonnes of ore mined per day | 10,228 | ||
Total waste mined – open pit (4) | 2,882,392 | ||
Total tonnes mined – open pit | 3,700,629 | ||
Waste-to-ore ratio | 4.52 | ||
Average grade of gold (4) | 0.90 | ||
Mill Operations | |||
Tonnes of ore processed | 550,475 | ||
Tonnes of ore processed per day | 6,881 | ||
Average grade of gold processed (4) | 0.92 | ||
Contained ounces milled | 16,370 | ||
Average recovery rate | 95 | % |
(1) Cost of sales includes mining and processing costs, royalties, and amortization.
(2) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures.
(3) For the purposes of calculating mine-site all-in sustaining costs, the Company does not include an allocation of corporate and administrative and share-based compensation expenses.
(4) Grams per tonne of gold (“g/t Au”).
(5) Minesite free cash flow does not include lease payments which are classified as cash flows from financing activities on the interim condensed consolidated financial statements.
Magino Operational Review (for Alamos’ ownership period from July 12, 2024 to September 30, 2024)
Magino produced 16,800 ounces of gold during Alamos’ ownership period in the third quarter, down from the second quarter, reflecting the partial reporting period as well as downtime to the crushing circuit associated with the mill.
Mining rates averaged 46,258 tpd during the period, including 10,228 tpd of ore. Given the downtime in the crushing circuit, and build-up of ore stockpiles, mining activities were focused on waste stripping, resulting in a higher strip ratio for the period than was originally planned. Grades mined averaged 0.90 g/t and were in-line with expectations.
Mill throughput averaged 6,881 tpd in the period and was impacted by downtime of the crushing circuit in August to implement various improvements including replacing the secondary crusher. Mill throughput increased to 8,900 tpd in September and is expected to improve further in the fourth quarter, following the completion of additional mill optimization initiatives that include replacing the grizzly and primary crusher. These improvements are expected to drive mill throughput to a steady-state average of 11,200 tpd in 2025, providing capacity for Island Gold’s ore to be fed into the larger and more cost-effective Magino mill.
Grades processed during the period were 0.92 g/t and recoveries increased to 95%, above expectations and driven by better performance in the gravity circuit. Milling rates and grades processed are expected to increase in the fourth quarter driving production higher to be consistent with guidance of 40,000 to 50,000 ounces for the second half of the year, commencing on the July 12th acquisition date.
Financial Review (for Alamos’ ownership period from July 12, 2024 to September 30, 2024)
Revenues were $37.0 million for the period of Alamos’ ownership with cost of sales of $38.5 million. Total cash costs were $2,025 per ounce, and AISC were $3,007 per ounce having been impacted by the downtime in the crushing circuit in August as well as higher sustaining capital expenditures across lower ounces sold. Costs are expected to improve in the fourth quarter and into 2025 reflecting higher processing rates.
Total capital expenditures were $13.9 million in the period, and primarily reflected capitalized stripping costs due to the higher waste tonnes mined, as well as capital lease payments.
The operation used $22.1 million of mine site free cash flow during the period of Alamos’ ownership in the quarter, driven primarily by overdue payables at Magino incurred by Argonaut but paid by Alamos post-close. The Company expects a significant improvement to the profitability of the operation in the fourth quarter and into 2025 reflecting higher production and lower costs.
Mulatos District Financial and Operational Review
Three Months Ended September 30, | Nine Months Ended September 30, | |||||||||||
2024 | 2023 | 2024 | 2023 | |||||||||
Gold production (ounces) | 50,500 | 53,900 | 166,100 | 164,700 | ||||||||
Gold sales (ounces) | 48,793 | 51,880 | 163,802 | 165,344 | ||||||||
Financial Review (in millions) | ||||||||||||
Operating Revenues | $122.8 | $100.2 | $380.1 | $320.4 | ||||||||
Cost of sales (1) | $68.2 | $64.3 | $218.2 | $197.6 | ||||||||
Earnings from operations | $51.1 | $31.1 | $151.2 | $113.4 | ||||||||
Cash provided by operating activities | $70.0 | $40.7 | $201.3 | $136.7 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (sustaining) (2) | $0.7 | $5.9 | $3.1 | $9.5 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (growth) (2) | $1.5 | $1.5 | $5.8 | $6.2 | ||||||||
Capital expenditures (capitalized exploration) (2) | $0.9 | $2.4 | $5.9 | $6.3 | ||||||||
Mine-site free cash flow (2) | $66.9 | $30.9 | $186.5 | $114.7 | ||||||||
Cost of sales, including amortization per ounce of gold sold (1) | $1,398 | $1,239 | $1,332 | $1,195 | ||||||||
Total cash costs per ounce of gold sold (2) | $937 | $898 | $892 | $861 | ||||||||
Mine site all-in sustaining costs per ounce of gold sold (2),(3) | $1,002 | $1,045 | $954 | $948 | ||||||||
La Yaqui Grande Mine | ||||||||||||
Open Pit Operations | ||||||||||||
Tonnes of ore mined – open pit (4) | 978,139 | 918,053 | 2,986,057 | 2,947,113 | ||||||||
Total waste mined – open pit (6) | 4,041,811 | 5,715,419 | 11,996,870 | 17,150,171 | ||||||||
Total tonnes mined – open pit | 5,019,950 | 6,633,472 | 14,982,927 | 20,097,284 | ||||||||
Waste-to-ore ratio (operating) | 4.13 | 5.00 | 4.02 | 5.00 | ||||||||
Crushing and Heap Leach Operations | ||||||||||||
Tonnes of ore stacked | 967,387 | 948,451 | 2,969,064 | 2,982,018 | ||||||||
Average grade of gold processed (5) | 1.36 | 1.50 | 1.38 | 1.52 | ||||||||
Contained ounces stacked | 42,302 | 45,722 | 131,720 | 146,196 | ||||||||
Average recovery rate | 90 | % | 84 | % | 98 | % | 82 | % | ||||
Ore crushed per day (tonnes) | 10,600 | 10,300 | 10,900 | 10,900 | ||||||||
Mulatos Mine | ||||||||||||
Open Pit Operations | ||||||||||||
Tonnes of ore mined – open pit (4) | — | 80,868 | — | 2,250,380 | ||||||||
Total waste mined – open pit (6) | — | 130,519 | — | 1,309,034 | ||||||||
Total tonnes mined – open pit | — | 211,387 | — | 3,559,415 | ||||||||
Waste-to-ore ratio (operating) | — | 1.61 | — | 0.58 | ||||||||
Crushing and Heap Leach Operations | ||||||||||||
Tonnes of ore stacked | — | 1,083,017 | — | 3,729,738 | ||||||||
Average grade of gold processed (5) | — | 1.55 | — | 1.17 | ||||||||
Contained ounces stacked | — | 53,923 | — | 140,375 | ||||||||
Average recovery rate | — | 29 | % | — | 32 | % | ||||||
Ore crushed per day (tonnes) | — | 11,800 | — | 13,700 |
(1) Cost of sales includes mining and processing costs, royalties, and amortization expense.
(2) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures.
(3) For the purposes of calculating mine-site all-in sustaining costs, the Company does not include an allocation of corporate and administrative and share-based compensation expenses.
(4) Includes ore stockpiled during the quarter.
(5) Grams per tonne of gold (“g/t Au”).
(6) Total waste mined includes operating waste and capitalized stripping.
Mulatos District Operational Review
The Mulatos District produced 50,500 ounces in the third quarter, 6% lower than the prior year period, reflecting the completion of mining in the main Mulatos pit in July 2023. For the first nine months of the year, the Mulatos District produced 166,100 ounces. Reflecting the strong outperformance of La Yaqui Grande during the first half of the year, Mulatos District production guidance was increased by 15% in September to between 185,000 and 195,000 ounces.
La Yaqui Grande produced 37,900 ounces in the third quarter, 1% lower than the prior year period due to lower grades, as planned. Grades stacked averaged 1.36 g/t Au for the third quarter, consistent with annual guidance. Grades are expected to decrease towards the lower end of the annual guidance range of 0.90 to 1.50 g/t Au in the fourth quarter. Stacking rates of 10,600 tpd were slightly above annual guidance and expected to decrease to average 10,000 tpd in the fourth quarter. Reflecting lower grades and stacking rates, gold production is expected to decrease in the fourth quarter to be consistent with annual guidance.
Mulatos commenced residual leaching in December 2023 and produced 12,600 ounces in the third quarter and 36,400 ounces year to date.
Mulatos District Financial Review
Revenues of $122.8 million in the third quarter and $380.1 million for the first nine months of the year were 23% and 19%, respectively, higher than the prior year periods, reflecting the higher realized gold price partially offset by lower ounces sold.
Cost of sales of $68.2 million in the third quarter and $218.2 million for the first nine months of the year were 6% and 10% higher, respectively, than in the prior year period due to inflationary pressures and increased amortization expense, partially offset by lower ounces sold.
Total cash costs of $937 per ounce in the third quarter were higher than the prior year period due to ongoing inflationary pressures; however, have remained in line with guidance. Mine-site AISC of $1,002 per ounce in the third quarter was 4% lower than the prior year period due a reduction in capital spending. For the first nine months of the year, total cash costs of $892 per ounce and mine-site AISC of $954 per ounce were below annual guidance. Both metrics are expected to increase in the fourth quarter due to planned lower grades and stacking rates to bring costs in line with guidance.
Capital expenditures totaled $3.1 million in the third quarter, including sustaining capital of $0.7 million, and $0.9 million of capitalized exploration focused on drilling at PDA. For the first nine months of 2024, capital spending totaled $14.8 million, including $5.9 million of capitalized exploration.
The Mulatos District generated mine-site free cash flow of $66.9 million for the third quarter and $186.5 million throughout the first nine months of the year, 117% and 63%, respectively, higher than the prior year comparative periods. The strong free cash flow generation was net of $14.3 million of cash tax payments in the third quarter and $74.8 million in the first nine months of the year. The Company expects similar cash tax payments in the fourth quarter of approximately $15 million. Given the strong profitability of the operation in 2024, with $186.5 million in free cash flow generated year to date, the Company expects to make significant cash tax payments in Mexico in 2025, similar to 2024.
Third Quarter 2024 Development Activities
Island Gold District (Ontario, Canada)
Phase 3+ Expansion
In 2022, the Company released the Phase 3+ Expansion Study conducted on its Island Gold mine. The Phase 3+ Expansion to 2,400 tpd from the current rate of 1,200 tpd will involve various infrastructure investments. These include the installation of a shaft, paste plant, as well as accelerated development to support the higher mining rates. Following the completion of the expansion in 2026, the operation will transition from trucking ore and waste up the ramp to skipping ore and waste to surface through the new shaft infrastructure, driving production higher and costs significantly lower.
On September 4, 2024, the Company announced an update to the initial capital estimate for the Phase 3+ Expansion, reflecting inflation and scope changes since the P3+ Study was completed in the first half of 2022, as well as synergies from the acquisition of Magino. Initial capital for the Phase 3+ Expansion was increased by approximately $40 million to $796 million, a 5% increase from the initial capital estimate provided in the first half of 2022. As of September 30, 2024, 62% of the total initial capital has been spent and committed on the project.
The increase was driven by ongoing inflationary pressures since 2022, and scope changes to the project, partially offset by synergies from the Magino acquisition, and the weaker Canadian dollar. The key changes within the updated capital estimate are as follows:
During the third quarter of 2024, the Company spent $51.1 million on the Phase 3+ Expansion and capital development. Progress on the Phase 3+ Expansion during the third quarter is summarized as follows:
The Phase 3+ Expansion remains on schedule to be completed in the first half of 2026.
(in US$M) Growth capital (including indirects and contingency) |
P3+ Estimate Sept 20241 | Spent to date1,2 | Committed to date1 | % of Spent & Committed | ||||
Shaft & Shaft Surface Complex | 297 | 193 | 44 | 80 | % | |||
Mill Expansion (including Magino mill) 4 | 54 | 14 | 1 | 28 | % | |||
Paste Plant | 55 | 12 | — | 22 | % | |||
Power Upgrade | 35 | 16 | 6 | 63 | % | |||
Effluent Treatment Plant | 19 | — | — | — | ||||
General Indirect Costs | 80 | 48 | 16 | 80 | % | |||
Contingency3 | 18 | — | — | — | ||||
Total Growth Capital | $558 | $283 | $67 | 63 | % | |||
Underground Equipment, Infrastructure & Accelerated Development | 238 | 142 | — | 60 | % | |||
Total Growth Capital (including Accelerated Spend) | $796 | $425 | $67 | 62 | % |
Island Gold District – October 2024
Lynn Lake (Manitoba, Canada)
On August 2, 2023, the Company reported the results of an updated Feasibility Study conducted on the project which replaces the previous Feasibility Study completed in 2017. The 2023 Study incorporates a 44% larger Mineral Reserve and 14% increase in milling rates to 8,000 tpd supporting a larger, longer-life, low-cost operation. The 2023 Study was updated to reflect the current costing environment, as well as a significant amount of additional engineering, on-site geotechnical investigation work, and requirements outlined during the permitting process with the EIS granted in March 2023. Highlights of the study include:
Development spending (excluding exploration) was $5.7 million in the third quarter of 2024, primarily on detailed engineering, which is 87% complete. The focus in 2024 is on further de-risking and advancing the project ahead of an anticipated construction decision in 2025. This includes completion of detailed engineering, and commencement of early works.
PDA
On September 4, 2024, the Company reported the results of the development plan for the PDA project located within the Mulatos District. PDA is a higher-grade underground deposit adjacent to the Mulatos open pit. Given PDA’s attractive economics and proximity to the existing Mulatos infrastructure, the Company anticipates starting development of PDA in 2025 with first production expected mid-2027. The project is expected to nearly triple the mine life of the Mulatos District, extending production into 2035.
PDA Project Highlights
Kirazlı (Çanakkale, Türkiye)
On October 14, 2019, the Company suspended all construction activities on its Kirazlı project following the Turkish government’s failure to grant a routine renewal of the Company’s mining licenses, despite the Company having met all legal and regulatory requirements for their renewal. In October 2020, the Turkish government refused the renewal of the Company’s Forestry Permit. The Company had been granted approval of all permits required to construct Kirazlı including the Environmental Impact Assessment approval, Forestry Permit, and GSM (Business Opening and Operation) permit, and certain key permits for the nearby Ağı Dağı and Çamyurt Gold Mines. These permits were granted by the Turkish government after the project earned the support of the local communities and passed an extensive multi-year environmental review and community consultation process.
On April 20, 2021, the Company announced that its Netherlands wholly-owned subsidiaries Alamos Gold Holdings Coöperatief U.A, and Alamos Gold Holdings B.V. would be filing an investment treaty claim against the Republic of Türkiye for expropriation and unfair and inequitable treatment. The claim was filed under the Netherlands-Türkiye Bilateral Investment Treaty. Alamos Gold Holdings Coöperatief U.A. and Alamos Gold Holdings B.V. had their claim against the Republic of Türkiye registered on June 7, 2021 with the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (World Bank Group).
Bilateral investment treaties are agreements between countries to assist with the protection of investments. The Treaty establishes legal protections for investment between Türkiye and the Netherlands. The Subsidiaries directly own and control the Company’s Turkish assets. The Subsidiaries invoking their rights pursuant to the Treaty does not mean that they relinquish their rights to the Turkish project, or otherwise cease the Turkish operations. The Company will continue to work towards a constructive resolution with the Republic of Türkiye.
The Company incurred $1.7 million in the third quarter of 2024 related to ongoing care and maintenance and arbitration costs to progress the Treaty claim, which was expensed.
Third Quarter 2024 Exploration Activities
Island Gold (Ontario, Canada)
The 2024 near mine exploration program continues to focus on defining new Mineral Reserves and Resources in proximity to existing production horizons and underground infrastructure through both underground and surface exploration drilling.
As previously announced, the 2023 exploration program was successful with high-grade Mineral Reserves and Resources added across all categories to now total 6.1 million ounces, a 16% increase from the end of 2022. The majority of these high-grade Mineral Reserve and Resource additions were in proximity to existing production horizons and infrastructure. This included additions within the main Island Gold structure as well as within the hanging wall and footwall. Given their proximity to existing infrastructure, these ounces are expected to be low cost to develop and could be incorporated into the mine plan and mined within the next several years, further increasing the value of the operation.
A total of $19 million has been budgeted for exploration at Island Gold in 2024, up from $14 million in 2023, with both a larger near mine and regional exploration program. This includes 41,000 m of underground exploration drilling, 12,500 m of near-mine surface exploration drilling, and 10,000 m of surface regional exploration drilling. In addition to the exploration budget, 32,000 m of underground delineation drilling has been planned and included in sustaining capital for Island Gold which will be focused on the conversion of the large Mineral Resource base to Mineral Reserves.
The 2024 regional exploration program is following up on high-grade mineralization intersected at the Pine-Breccia targets, located four kilometres from the Island Gold mine. Drilling will also be completed in proximity to the past-producing Cline and Edwards mines (seven km from the Island Gold mine), as well as at the Island Gold North Shear target. Additionally, a comprehensive data compilation project is underway across the 40,000-hectare Manitou land package that was acquired in 2023 in support of future exploration targeting.
As announced on July 23, 2024, the Company provided a comprehensive update on its continued exploration success at Island Gold during the first half of 2024. Exploration drilling continues to extend high-grade gold mineralization across the Island Gold Deposit, as well as within several hanging wall and footwall structures. Delineation and definition drilling has defined wide, higher-grade zones within the Island East area. The success on both fronts is expected to drive further growth in high-grade Mineral Reserves and Resources with the 2024 year end update.
Additionally, high-grade mineralization was intersected in the North Shear and the Webb Lake stock area, highlighting a longer-term, near-mine opportunity as a potential source of additional mill feed for the expanded Magino milling complex.
During the third quarter, 10,464 m of underground exploration drilling was completed in 45 holes, and 3,607 m of surface drilling was completed in seven holes. Additionally, a total of 10,815 m of underground delineation drilling was completed in 42 holes, focused on in-fill drilling to convert Mineral Resources to Mineral Reserves. A total of 60 m of underground exploration drift development was also completed during the third quarter. Year-to-date, 38,467 m of underground exploration drilling has been completed in 156 holes, and 9,489 m of surface drilling has been completed in 14 holes. A total of 31,700 m of underground delineation drilling has been completed in 133 holes. A total of 306 m of underground exploration drift development was also completed in the first nine months of the year.
In September, a two-drill surface program commenced at Magino focused on Mineral Resource conversion and Resource growth with 2,742 m completed in seven holes. Approximately 17,000 m of drilling is expected to be completed as part of the Magino drill program by the end of the year.
The regional exploration drilling program continued in the third quarter, with 2,828 m of drilling completed in seven holes at Cline and Edwards, bringing the year-to-date regional drilling to 7,823 m across 22 holes.
Total exploration expenditures during the third quarter of 2024 were $5.1 million, of which $3.8 million was capitalized. In the first nine months of 2024, the Company incurred exploration expenditures of $14.7 million of which $10.7 million was capitalized.
Young-Davidson (Ontario, Canada)
A total of $12 million has been budgeted for exploration at Young-Davidson in 2024, up from $8 million spent in 2023. This includes 21,600 m of underground exploration drilling, and 1,070 m of underground exploration development to extend drill platforms on multiple levels. The majority of the underground exploration drilling program will be focused on extending mineralization within the Young-Davidson syenite, which hosts the majority of Mineral Reserves and Resources. Drilling is also testing the hanging wall and footwall of the deposit where higher grades have been intersected.
As announced in the May 14, 2024 press release, underground exploration drilling from the mid-mine intersected a new style of higher-grade gold mineralization in zones within the hanging wall of the Young-Davidson deposit. These zones are located between 10 and up to 200 m south of existing infrastructure and Mineral Reserves and Resources, highlighting the upside potential with grades intersected well above the current Mineral Reserve grade of 2.31 g/t of gold.
The regional program has been expanded with 7,000 m of surface drilling planned in 2024, up from 5,000 m in 2023. The focus will be on testing multiple near-surface targets across the 5,900 hectare Young-Davidson Property that could potentially provide supplemental mill feed.
During the third quarter, two underground exploration drills completed 6,133 m of diamond drilling in 13 holes targeting syenite-hosted mineralization as well as continuing to test for high-grade gold mineralization in the hanging wall sediments. Year to date, 19,919 m of underground exploration drilling has been completed in 46 holes.
No regional surface drilling was completed in the third quarter. Year-to-date, 3,454 m of surface regional exploration drilling was completed in 11 holes.
Total exploration expenditures during the third quarter of 2024 were $2.3 million, of which $1.5 million was capitalized. In the first nine months of 2024, the Company incurred exploration expenditures of $6.0 million of which $3.9 million was capitalized.
Mulatos District (Sonora, Mexico)
A total of $19 million has been budgeted at Mulatos for exploration in 2024, similar to spending in 2023. The near-mine and regional drilling program is expected to total 55,000 m. This includes 27,000 m of surface exploration drilling at PDA and the surrounding area. This drilling will follow up on another successful year of exploration at PDA in 2023, with Mineral Reserves increasing 33% to 1.0 million ounces (5.4 mt grading 5.61 g/t Au) and grades also increasing 16%. This growth in higher-grade Mineral Reserves was incorporated into the PDA development plan released in September 2024.
On September 4, 2024, the Company reported new results from ongoing surface exploration drilling within the Mulatos District focused on defining higher-grade mineralization at PDA and Cerro Pelon. Drilling at Cerro Pelon is following up on wide, high-grade underground oxide and sulphide intersections previously drilled below the Cerro Pelon open pit. The 2024 drill program has successfully expanded high-grade mineralization beyond the historical drilling in multiple oxide and sulphide zones. Additionally, surface drilling has extended higher-grade mineralization across multiple zones within the PDA area. Ongoing exploration success is expected to support further growth in Mineral Reserves and Resources at PDA, and an initial underground Mineral Resource at Cerro Pelon with the year-end update expected to be released in February 2025.
Cerro Pelon exploration highlights (previously released): step-out drilling below the previously mined oxide deposit has identified significant high-grade feeder structures that range in size from 45 to 125 m in width, and up to 170 m vertically. The top portion of the mineralized zones contain oxide mineralization including the historical intercept of 15.35 g/t Au (14.04 g/t cut) over 25.04 m true width (15PEL012) drilled in 2015. Cerro Pelon is located nine kilometres by road from the planned PDA mill and represents a potential source of additional high-grade mill feed. Previously released highlights include1 :
PDA exploration highlights: additional high-grade gold mineralization extended beyond Mineral Reserves and Resources within the GAP-Victor, PDA3 and PDA Extension zones. Previously released highlights include1:
GAP-Victor Zone
PDA3 Zone
PDA Extension Zone
1All reported composite widths are estimated true width of the mineralized zones. Drillhole composite gold grades reported as “cut” at PDA and Cerro Pelon include higher grade samples which have been cut to 40 g/t Au
During the third quarter, exploration activities continued at PDA and the near-mine area with 3,020 m of drilling completed in ten holes. Drilling was focused on infill drilling the GAP-Victor portion of the Mineral Resource.
Drilling also restarted late in the third quarter at Cerro Pelon evaluating the high-grade sulphide potential to the north of the historical open pit with a total of 370 m completed in three holes. West of the pit area, 4,050 m in 11 holes were drilled targeting sulphide mineralization.
At Refugio, 1,150 m was drilled in four holes to test the broader Capulin area for additional mineralization based on surface mapping and interpretation. An additional 1,950 m was drilled in four holes at the Baijos target, four kilometres north of La Yaqui Grande.
For the first nine months of 2024, 39,439 m of near-mine drilling was completed in 139 holes, and 15,012 m of surface regional drilling was completed in 43 holes.
Total exploration expenditures during the third quarter of 2024 were $4.4 million, of which $0.9 million was capitalized. In the first nine months of 2024, the Company incurred exploration expenditures of $16.6 million of which $5.9 million was capitalized.
Lynn Lake (Manitoba, Canada)
A total of $9 million has been budgeted for exploration at the Lynn Lake project in 2024, up from $5 million in 2023. This includes 15,500 m of drilling focused on the conversion of Mineral Resources to Mineral Reserves at the Burnt Timber and Linkwood deposits, and to evaluate the potential for Mineral Resources at Maynard, an advanced stage greenfield target.
Burnt Timber and Linkwood contain Inferred Mineral Resources totaling 1.6 million ounces grading 1.1 g/t Au (44 million tonnes) as of December 31, 2023. The Company sees excellent potential for this to be converted into a smaller, higher quality Mineral Reserve which could be incorporated into the Lynn Lake Gold Project given its proximity to the planned mill. A study incorporating these deposits into the Lynn Lake project is expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of 2024, and represents potential production and economic upside to the 2023 Feasibility Study.
The 2024 drill program was completed in the first half of 2024 with 16,134 m of drilling completed in 87 holes at Lynn Lake. During the third quarter all assay results were returned with Mineral Resource model updates in progress and will be completed in the fourth quarter. The surface infill drill programs at Linkwood (11,728 m) and Burnt Timber (1,439 m) were successful in intersecting and infilling gold mineralization within the proposed Mineral Resource and Reserve pits. The Maynard (2,967 m) drill program was successful in extending mineralization from the 2023 results and intersecting gold mineralization in previous gaps in drilling.
In the third quarter, regional exploration activities were focused on mapping and IP survey at the Tulune target.
Exploration spending totaled $1.4 million in the third quarter and $6.2 million for the first nine months of the year, all of which was capitalized.
Qiqavik (Quebec, Canada)
On April 3, 2024, the Company completed the acquisition of Orford Mining, acquiring a 100% interest in the Qiqavik gold project. Qiqavik is a camp scale property covering 438 square kilometres in the Cape Smith Greenstone Belt in Nunavik, Quebec. The Qiqavik Property covers 40 kilometres of strike along the Qiqavik Break, a major crustal-scale structure controlling gold mineralization within the belt. Early-stage exploration completed to date indicates that high-grade gold occurrences are controlled by structural splays off the Qiqavik Break.
Exploration activities in the third quarter were focused on evaluating high-priority target areas to define drill targets for 2025. Activities included detailed geological mapping, prospecting, till sampling, and Quaternary field investigations to determine glacial dispersal direction and transport distances. In addition, a 500 km2 high-resolution Lidar survey with photo imagery, and a 25 m line-spacing drone magnetic survey was flown over four prospective areas. The results of the 2024 program will be used to plan a drill program on the project in 2025.
Exploration spending totaled $2.5 million in the third quarter and $2.9 million for the first nine months of the year, all of which was expensed.
Review of Third Quarter Financial Results
During the third quarter of 2024, the Company sold 145,204 ounces of gold for record operating revenues of $360.9 million, representing a 41% increase from the prior year period. The increase was due to higher realized gold prices, and higher sales volumes due to the inclusion of ounces from Magino from the date of acquisition.
The average realized gold price in the third quarter was $2,458 per ounce, 27% higher than the prior year period, and $17 per ounce less the London PM Fix price. The Company’s realized gold price in the third quarter was slightly impacted by hedges entered into earlier in the year.
Cost of sales (which includes mining and processing costs, royalties, and amortization expense) were $204.0 million in the third quarter, 29% higher than the prior year period, primarily due to higher cost ounces from Magino with the operation undergoing downtime to implement a number of improvements to the mill. Excluding costs incurred at Magino, cost of sales was $165.5 million which was 5% higher than the prior year period, reflecting inflation. Key drivers of changes to cost of sales as compared to the prior year period were as follows:
Mining and processing costs were $142.8 million, 32% higher than the prior year period. Excluding costs incurred at Magino, mining and processing costs were $113.3 million, 5% higher than the prior year period. The increase was driven by inflationary pressures on input costs, primarily labour. Costs in the prior year period were also lower due to the inclusion of silver sales as an offset to mining and processing costs, whereas they were included in revenue in the current year.
Total cash costs of $984 per ounce and AISC of $1,425 per ounce were higher than the prior year period driven by the inclusion of the higher cost Magino ounces. Excluding Magino, total cash costs and AISC for the third quarter would have been $118 and $184 per ounce lower, respectively. Additionally, AISC was impacted by higher share-based compensation driven by an increase in the Company’s share price during the quarter.
Royalty expense was $3.5 million in the third quarter, higher than the prior year period of $2.5 million, due to the higher average realized gold price.
Amortization of $57.7 million in the third quarter was higher than the prior year period due to the higher number of ounces sold and the inclusion of amortization from the Magino mine in the current period. On a per ounce basis, amortization of $397 per ounce was higher than the prior year period due to the higher depletion base of the leased assets inherited from Magino.
There was a reversal of impairment losses for mineral properties, plant and equipment recorded during the third quarter of 2024, related to the Young-Davidson mine, driven by an increase in long-term gold price assumptions and consistent with the assumptions utilized by the Company in its valuation of Argonaut. The recoverable amount was determined to be greater than the carrying amount which resulted in an impairment reversal of $57.1 million ($38.6 million, net of tax), which was recorded to mineral property, plant and equipment and an intangible asset.
The Company recognized earnings from operations of $183.3 million in the third quarter, 122% higher than the prior year period, driven by record revenues and a reversal of the impairment of $57.1 million.
As at September 30, 2024, the Company held forward contracts that were acquired as part of the acquisition of Argonaut. These contracts, totaling 100,000 ounces in 2026 and 50,000 ounces in 2027, ensure an average forward price of $1,821 per ounce, and mature monthly throughout 2026 and 2027. As well, the Company held option contracts totaling 18,750 ounces maturing through the remainder of 2024, to ensure a minimum average realized gold price of $1,942 per ounce and a maximum average realized gold price of $2,381 per ounce. The Company recognized unrealized losses on the gold option and forward contracts of $28.2 million, compared to an unrealized gain of $0.6 million in the prior year period.
The Company reported net earnings of $84.5 million in the third quarter, compared to $39.4 million in the prior year period. Included in net earnings was a reversal of impairment of $38.6 million, net of tax, related to Young-Davidson, partially offset by $28.2 million of unrealized losses on commodity hedge derivatives. Adjusted earnings (1) were $78.1 million, or $0.19 per share, which included adjustments for the reversal of impairment, net of tax, and unrealized losses on commodity hedge derivatives, net of tax. In addition, adjusted earnings reflects unrealized net foreign exchange losses recorded within deferred taxes and foreign exchange of $1.8 million and other adjustments totaling $9.2 million.
(1) Refer to the “Non-GAAP Measures and Additional GAAP Measures” disclosure at the end of this press release and associated MD&A for a description and calculation of these measures.
Associated Documents
This press release should be read in conjunction with the Company’s interim consolidated financial statements for the three-month period ended September 30, 2024 and associated Management’s Discussion and Analysis, which are available from the Company’s website, www.alamosgold.com, in the “Investors” section under “Reports and Financials”, and on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and EDGAR (www.sec.gov).
Reminder of Third Quarter 2024 Results Conference Call
The Company’s senior management will host a conference call on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at 11:00 am ET to discuss the results. Participants may join the conference call via webcast or through the following dial-in numbers:
Toronto and International: | (416) 406-0743 |
Toll free (Canada and the United States): | (800) 898-3989 |
Participant passcode: | 7495836# |
Webcast: | www.alamosgold.com |
A playback will be available until December 7, 2024 by dialling (905) 694-9451 or (800) 408-3053 within Canada and the United States. The passcode is 8101878#. The webcast will be archived at www.alamosgold.com.
Qualified Persons
Chris Bostwick, FAusIMM, Alamos’ Senior Vice President, Technical Services, who is a qualified person within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101 (“Qualified Person”), has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained in this press release.
About Alamos
Alamos is a Canadian-based intermediate gold producer with diversified production from three operations in North America. This includes the Young-Davidson mine and Island Gold District in northern Ontario, Canada, and the Mulatos District in Sonora State, Mexico. Additionally, the Company has a strong portfolio of growth projects, including the Phase 3+ Expansion at Island Gold, and the Lynn Lake project in Manitoba, Canada. Alamos employs more than 2,400 people and is committed to the highest standards of sustainable development. The Company’s shares are traded on the TSX and NYSE under the symbol “AGI”.
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