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    gold investing

    Newcrest Mining Limited – Quarterly Report for the Three Months Ended 31 March 2021

    Written by Investing News Network
    |
    Apr. 28, 2021 07:27PM PST

    Lower costs, on track to deliver FY21 guidance and growth options advanced Operating performance in line with expectationsGold production of 512koz and copper production of 35kt Improved All-In Sustaining Cost of $891oz, delivering an AISC margin of 49% or $854oz Cadia records lowest ever reported quarterly AISC of negative $160oz On track to deliver FY21 guidance Advancing multiple organic growth options Box cut …

    (figures are unaudited and in US$ except where stated)

    Lower costs, on track to deliver FY21 guidance and growth options advanced

    • Operating performance in line with expectations(1)
      • Gold production of 512koz(2) and copper production of 35kt
      • Improved All-In Sustaining Cost (AISC) of $891/oz(2), delivering an AISC margin of 49% or $854/oz(3)
      • Cadia records lowest ever reported quarterly AISC of negative $160/oz
      • On track to deliver FY21 guidance
    • Advancing multiple organic growth options
      • Box cut and surface infrastructure construction progressing well at Red Chris and Havieron
      • Newcrest’s initial Mineral Resource estimate for Red Chris released, supporting the potential development of a high margin underground block cave(4)
      • Cadia Molybdenum Plant commissioning commenced, with first commercial production expected in September 2021 Quarter(5)
      • Lihir Phase 14A Pre-Feasibility Study on track and expected to be released in June 2021 quarter(6)
    • Balance sheet further strengthened with debt reduction and bank debt facility extension
      • Early repayment of the remaining 2022 Corporate Bonds using available cash
      • Maturity dates extended on undrawn bilateral bank debt facilities

    Newcrest Mining Limited (ASX: NCM) (TSX: NCM) Newcrest Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Sandeep Biswas, said, “Our world-class Cadia asset set a new record during the March 2021 quarter, reporting its lowest ever quarterly All-In Sustaining Cost of negative $160oz. This record, along with unit cost reductions at all other sites, delivered a 7% reduction in our All-In Sustaining Cost per ounce for the quarter and a strong All-In Sustaining Cost margin of $854oz.”

    “As part of our plan to forge an even stronger Newcrest, we continue to progress multiple organic growth options across our gold and copper assets with a number of key project milestones delivered during the period. At Red Chris and Havieron, box cut and surface infrastructure construction is progressing to plan, while at Lihir we are on target to deliver the findings of our Phase 14A Pre-Feasibility Study in the June 2021 quarter.”

    “In March 2021 we released our initial Mineral Resource estimate for Red Chris, which confirmed the potential we saw in this orebody and further supports our belief that this could be a Cadia-style development. We remain on track to report the findings of our block cave Pre-Feasibility Study by the end of September 2021. We also commenced commissioning of Cadia’s Molybdenum Plant, with commercial production expected in the September 2021 quarter.”

    “We are very well positioned to fund our organic growth opportunities, with a strong balance sheet and long-dated debt maturity profile, further enhanced through the early repurchase of outstanding corporate bonds and the maturity extension of our existing undrawn bilateral bank debt facilities.”

    “Pleasingly we have experienced no material disruption to production or operations to date as a result of COVID-19. We have further strengthened our COVID-19 controls at Lihir and continue to work closely with all relevant government stakeholders in Australia and Papua New Guinea to manage the risks associated with the virus,” said Mr Biswas.

    Overview

    Gold production was 4% lower than the prior period, reflecting the impact of planned shutdown events at Cadia and Lihir as foreshadowed in the December 2020 quarterly report. This was partially offset by a 6% increase in gold production at Telfer driven by higher throughput rates and gold recovery improvements.

    Newcrest’s AISC for the March 2021 quarter of $891/oz(2) was$72/oz lower than the prior period. The 7% improvement includes the benefit of a higher realised copper price, higher gold sales volumes at Lihir and Telfer, and the timing of sustaining capital expenditure at Lihir and Red Chris. These benefits were partially offset by the impact of a strengthening Australian dollar against the US dollar which resulted in an increase to operating costs together with lower copper sales volumes at Red Chris and Cadia.


    MetricMar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    YTD
    FY20
    FY21
    Guidance
    (7)
    Group(2) – goldoz512,424535,477503,0891,550,9901,581,5211,950-2,150koz
    – copper t35,03434,55734,763104,35497,427135-155kt
    – silver oz228,543230,769214,412673,724731,226
    Cadia – goldoz179,546194,088196,504570,138606,633680-760koz
    – copper t26,32426,64325,32978,29768,40995-105kt
    Lihir
    – goldoz183,231200,173177,337560,741568,745720-820koz
    Telfer– goldoz105,22898,85586,452290,535279,368360-420koz
    – copper t3,6662,4432,3848,49212,11710-20kt
    Red Chris(8)
    – goldoz11,09511,37512,63635,10723,49345-55koz
    – copper t5,0445,4717,05017,56516,90125-30kt
    Gosowong(9)– goldoz––––103,282
    Fruta del Norte(2),(10)– goldoz33,32430,98630,16094,469–95-110koz








    FatalitiesNumber00000
    TRIFR(11)mhrs2.61.62.62.42.6
    All-In Sustaining Cost(2),(12) $/oz891963([13])980944856([14])
    All-In Cost(15)$/oz1,2531,3491,2751,2911,020(14)
    All-In Sustaining Cost margin(3)$/oz854836847846633
    Realised gold price(16)$/oz1,7511,8151,8371,8011,489
    Realised copper price(16)$/lb3.863.262.973.362.61
    Realised copper price(16)$/t8,5107,1876,5487,4085,754
    Average exchange rateAUD:USD0.77290.73030.71470.73900.6765
    Average exchange ratePGK:USD0.28460.28530.28720.28570.2937
    Average exchange rateCAD:USD0.78960.76670.75040.76840.7536

    All figures are shown at 100% unless stated otherwise.

    Operations

    Cadia, Australia

    HighlightsMetricMar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    YTD
    FY20
    FY21
    Guidance
    TRIFRmhrs11.37.53.67.44.5
    Total production – goldoz179,546194,088196,504570,138606,633680-760koz
    – copper t26,32426,64325,32978,29768,40995-105kt
    Head Grade – goldg/t0.940.951.020.971.15
    – copper %0.410.390.400.400.39
    Sales
    – gold oz175,295194,183195,146564,624611,979
    – copper t25,33226,47724,59676,40569,512
    All-In Sustaining Cost$/oz(160)(6)113(13)156
    All-In Sustaining Cost margin $/oz1,9111,8211,7241,8141,333

    Gold production of 180koz was 7% lower than the prior period primarily driven by lower throughput. As highlighted in the December 2020 quarterly report, mill throughput was lower in the period due to scheduled maintenance of Concentrator 1 and the materials handling system.

    A higher realised copper price and a marginally higher proportion of copper sales to gold sales drove a significant decrease in Cadia’s AISC, which at negative $160/oz is a new quarterly record. Cadia’s AISC also reflects mobile fleet purchases and end-of-life rebuilds driving higher sustaining capital expenditure, the impact on operating costs from the strengthening of the Australian dollar against the US dollar, lower copper sales volumes and the impact to unit costs from lower gold sales volumes.

    Newcrest commenced commissioning of its Molybdenum Plant in March 2021, with first commercial production expected in the September 2021 quarter(17). The Molybdenum Plant is expected to deliver an additional revenue stream for Cadia in the form of a molybdenum concentrate which will also be recognised as a by-product credit to AISC.

    In August 2020, Newcrest announced that it had deferred the replacement of the SAG mill motor to July 2021. Newcrest now expects the replacement to take ~19 weeks(17), 3 weeks less than its original estimate. Newcrest will implement a SAG bypass for the duration of the SAG mill motor replacement and Concentrator 1 will operate at a reduced capacity of approximately 60% during this time.

    Newcrest is currently progressing its Pre-Feasibility Study for the development of the PC1-2 cave. The Pre-Feasibility study is on track to be completed in calendar year 2021.

    Lihir, Papua New Guinea

    HighlightsMetricMar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    YTD
    FY20
    FY21
    Guidance
    TRIFRmhrs0.40.00.50.30.5
    Production – gold oz183,231200,173177,337560,741568,745720-820koz
    Head Grade
    – goldg/t2.582.272.342.382.35
    Sales
    – goldoz194,356170,308210,831575,495566,873
    All-In Sustaining Cost$/oz1,2931,4381,2831,3321,156
    All-In Sustaining Cost margin $/oz458377554469333

    Gold production of 183koz was 8% lower than the prior period driven by lower throughput, partially mitigated by grade and recovery improvements. As highlighted in the December 2020 quarterly report, throughput was impacted by a scheduled total plant shutdown in March 2021 together with shut overruns and unplanned outages. Gold head grade was 14% higher than the prior period reflecting a higher proportion of high grade expit ore feed from Phase 14 in addition to an increase in stockpile feed grade. The 4% improvement in gold recovery was driven by an increase in higher grade ore feed and improved flotation performance.

    Lihir’s AISC of $1,293/oz was 10% lower than the prior period driven by higher gold sales volumes and timing of sustaining capital expenditure. These benefits were partially offset by higher site operating costs, reflecting the total plant shutdown and associated overruns together with an increase in production stripping activities in Phase 15.

    Newcrest expects to release the findings of its Phase 14A Pre-Feasibility Study in the June 2021 quarter(18). As previously announced, study work has identified 20Mt at 2.4g/t Au (including 13Mt at 3g/t Au) of Indicated Mineral Resource that, if accessed, has the potential to increase the average mill feed grade between FY23-25 and could result in an additional ~400-600koz(19) of contained gold in mill feed during that period.

    Lihir – Material Movements

    Ore SourceMetric Mar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    YTD
    FY20
    Ex-pit crushed tonneskt1,4071,9181,2364,5603,977
    Ex-pit to stockpilekt6956151,6102,9195,423
    Wastekt6,9674,7936,26918,02914,090
    Total Ex-pitkt9,0687,3269,11525,50823,490
    Stockpile reclaimkt1,5661,7652,1925,5236,118
    Stockpile relocationkt3,1392,8843,3069,32910,739
    Total Otherkt4,7054,6495,49814,85116,857
    Total Material Movedkt13,77411,97514,61340,35940,346

    Lihir – Processing

    EquipmentMetric Mar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    YTD
    FY20
    Crushingkt2,9733,6833,42610,08210,094
    Millingkt2,8353,6913,2559,78110,218
    Flotationkt2,0702,8352,7807,6857,641
    Total Autoclavekt1,6421,9981,5925,2325,368

    Telfer, Australia

    HighlightsMetricMar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    YTD
    FY20
    FY21 Guidance
    TRIFRmhrs5.21.84.64.25.5
    Production – gold oz105,22898,85586,452290,535279,368360-420koz
    – coppert3,6662,4432,3848,49212,11710-20kt
    Head Grade – gold g/t0.880.940.860.890.93
    – copper%0.120.090.090.100.16
    Sales
    – goldoz102,44987,99285,096275,537275,592
    – coppert3,0002,1522,3117,46211,452
    All-In Sustaining Cost$/oz1,4891,5601,7971,6071,308
    All-In Sustaining Cost margin(20) $/oz26225540194181

    Gold production of 105koz was 6% higher than the prior period, driven by higher throughput and recovery, partially offset by lower head grade and a reduction in dump leach ounces. The 10% increase in mill throughput reflects improved mill utilisation rates, with the 2% improvement in gold recovery driven by the success of sulphur blending strategies together with other recovery improvement initiatives that were delivered in the period. Head grade was 7% lower than the prior period which was driven by a higher proportion of lower grade open pit mill feed.

    Telfer’s AISC of $1,489/oz was 5% lower than the prior period driven by higher gold and copper sales volumes and a higher realised copper price. These benefits were partially offset by the impact on operating costs from the strengthening of the Australian dollar against the US dollar, together with higher concentrate sales volumes driving higher treatment, refining and transportation costs. Adverse weather conditions continue to impact shipments leaving Telfer with YTD gold and copper sales volumes lower than production. Newcrest expects to reduce its inventory on hand by the end of the financial year.

    Red Chris, Canada

    Highlights(21)MetricMar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    YTD
    FY20
    FY21 Guidance
    TRIFRmhrs4.11.811.16.015.5
    Production – goldoz11,09511,37512,63635,10723,49345-55koz
    – coppert5,0445,4717,05017,56516,90125-30kt
    Head Grade – goldg/t0.420.420.400.410.35
    – copper%0.430.450.460.450.51
    Sales
    – goldoz10,77812,64111,83435,25321,663
    – coppert4,9886,0726,64217,70215,696
    All-In Sustaining Cost$/oz2,1693,2782,6212,7191,824(22)
    All-In Sustaining Cost margin$/oz(418)(1,463) (784)(918)(335)

    Gold production of 11koz was in line with the prior period. In February 2021, a major power outage during an extreme winter weather event caused some mill infrastructure to freeze which damaged the Vertimill upon restart and adversely impacted recovery.

    Red Chris’ AISC of $2,169/oz was 34% lower than the prior period driven by timing of sustaining capital expenditure, a higher realised copper price, lower operating costs and a decrease in production stripping expenditure due to positioning in Phase 5. These benefits were partially offset by lower gold and copper sales volumes and the impact to operating costs from a strengthening Canadian dollar against the US dollar.

    Also included in Red Chris’ AISC are investments in a number of additional improvement initiatives across the site including a new fleet management system, the replacement of the conventional CAT 793 truck tubs with high performance trays and a number of throughput and recovery related projects. These initiatives are currently contributing to Red Chris’ elevated AISC outcome but are expected to help deliver a reduction in the unit costs of the site in the longer term.

    On 31 March 2021, Newcrest released its initial Mineral Resource estimate(23) for Red Chris which comprised:

    • A Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource estimate of 980Mt @ 0.41g/t gold and 0.38% copper for 13Moz contained gold and 3.7Mt contained copper
    • An Inferred Mineral Resource estimate of 190Mt @ 0.31g/t gold and 0.30% copper for 1.9Moz contained gold and 0.57Mt contained copper

    Newcrest’s initial Mineral Resource estimate will support the potential development of a high margin underground block cave(24) and is a key input into the Red Chris block cave Pre-Feasibility Study which is expected to be released by the end of September 2021(25). Newcrest also expects to release its initial Ore Reserve estimate for Red Chris within the same timeframe.

    The latest drilling results for Red Chris are included in the March 2021 Quarterly Exploration Report which was also released today.

    Fruta Del Norte, Ecuador

    On 30 April 2020, Newcrest acquired the gold prepay and stream facilities and an offtake agreement in respect of Lundin Gold Inc’s Fruta del Norte mine for $460 million. In the March 2021 quarter, Newcrest received net pre-tax cash flows of ~$25 million from these financing facilities, and a total of $62 million net pre-tax cash flows received since Newcrest acquired the facilities.

    Included within Newcrest’s gold production for the March 2021 quarter is 33koz relating to Newcrest’s 32% equity interest in Lundin Gold Inc, the owner of the Fruta del Norte mine.

    Project Development

    Red Chris, Canada

    Box cut and surface infrastructure construction is progressing well following receipt of the necessary regulatory approvals during the period with achievements as at 28 April 2021 including:

    • Box cut excavation is over 50% complete
    • First bench completed with blasting and excavation on the lower bench in progress
    • Surface earthworks are ~15% complete
    • Offices in place with the remainder of infrastructure in progress

    Regulatory approval for construction of the exploration decline at Red Chris is nearing completion.

    Havieron, Western Australia

    The Havieron Project is located 45km east of Newcrest’s Telfer operation and is operated by Newcrest under a Joint Venture Agreement with Greatland Gold plc.

    Box cut, surface infrastructure and portal and decline establishment are progressing to plan with achievements as at
    28 April 2021 including:

    • Box cut excavation is ~90% complete
    • Shotcreting of Portal Face has commenced, with ground support complete
    • Batch Plant is fully commissioned
    • Surface earthworks are ~85% complete

    Activities to finalise the Water Management Plan for the early works program are ongoing. Newcrest is also progressing the necessary approvals and permits that are required to commence the development of an operating underground mine and associated infrastructure at the Project(26).

    The latest drilling results for the Havieron Project are included in the March 2021 Quarterly Exploration Report which was also released today.

    Wafi-Golpu, Papua New Guinea

    In December 2020, following a rigorous environmental impact assessment, the Papua New Guinea Conservation and Environment Protection Authority approved, and the Director of Environment issued, the Environment Permit for the Wafi-Golpu Project. The Environment Permit is required under the Papua New Guinea Environment Act and is a pre-requisite for the grant of a Special Mining Lease under the Mining Act.

    Subsequently, the Governor of Morobe Province and the Morobe Provincial Government have commenced legal proceedings in the National Court in Papua New Guinea seeking judicial review of the decision to issue the Environmental Permit. The participants in the Wafi-Golpu Joint Venture are not defendants to the proceedings. The National Court is yet to hear and determine this judicial review application. At this stage, project and permitting activities can still progress.

    Newcrest, together with its WGJV partner Harmony, looks forward to re-engaging with the State of Papua New Guinea and progressing discussions on the Special Mining Lease for the Wafi-Golpu Project.

    Molybdenum Plant, Cadia, Australia

    Newcrest commenced commissioning of its Molybdenum Plant in March 2021, with first commercial production expected in the September 2021 quarter(27). The Molybdenum Plant is expected to deliver an additional revenue stream for Cadia in the form of a molybdenum concentrate which will also be recognised as a by-product credit to AISC.

    Exploration

    See the separately released “Quarterly Exploration Report” for the March 2021 quarter.

    COVID-19 Update

    To date, Newcrest has not experienced any material COVID-19 related disruptions to production or to the supply of goods and services.

    Newcrest continues to work with the Governments of Australia and Papua New Guinea, and other relevant authorities to manage both the escalation of COVID-19 cases across Papua New Guinea and related travel restrictions between Papua New Guinea and Australia.

    There has been an increase in the number of cases that have tested positive for COVID-19 at Lihir, with the majority of these cases being asymptomatic. Newcrest continues to provide care and support to its quarantined patients until they are free from the virus.

    Newcrest has further strengthened its existing COVID-19 controls at Lihir, with a focus on spread containment through extensive contact tracing and isolation procedures. Tracking devices that record close contacts and enable rapid contact tracing have been widely distributed and further controls to segregate the workforce have been implemented.

    No material impacts to gold production at Lihir have occurred. However, the ability to attract labour, the travel restrictions and contact tracing and associated isolation requirements has resulted in an impact to total material mined. Should these conditions persist or worsen, there is the potential for production to be impacted.

    As previously highlighted, all of Newcrest’s operations have business continuity plans and contingencies in place which seek to minimise disruptions to the operations in the event of a significant number of operational employees and/or contractors contracting the virus. It is expected that these plans will enable the operations to continue producing in line with the production schedule and if there are any material impacts, Newcrest will inform the market in line with its continuous disclosure obligations.

    As previously announced, costs associated with managing COVID-19 risks in FY21 are expected to be higher than anticipated at the start of the year due to more extensive testing, longer quarantining periods, additional accommodation, rostering and other labour costs, and other preventative actions. For the first half of the financial year Newcrest incurred ~$30 million in COVID-19 management costs. The full year costs are expected to be in the order of $60-70 million.

    Corporate

    Repurchase of Outstanding 2022 Bonds

    On 28 April 2021, Newcrest completed the mandatory redemption and cancellation of its outstanding US$380 million 4.200% Senior Guaranteed Notes, otherwise maturing 1 October 2022. The total redemption price paid was
    US$400 million which included US$20 million for the make-whole payment. The make-whole payment will be expensed and categorised as “Debt extinguishment and related costs” in the “Finance costs” section of the FY21 income statement, and is expected to be treated as a Significant Item.

    Bilateral Bank Debt Facilities

    On 2 March 2021, Newcrest announced that it had renewed its unsecured bilateral bank lending facilities and extended the maturity dates.

    The renewed facilities are with Newcrest’s existing 13 bank lenders, with each bank committing approximately
    US$154 million in facilities for an overall unchanged quantum of US$2 billion, on similar commercial terms.

    The facilities have tenors of three or five years, the aggregate of which is as follows:

    • US$1,077 million of facilities maturing in FY24
    • US$923 million of facilities maturing in FY26

    Community Support Fund

    Newcrest’s A$20 million Community Support Fund strives to help its host communities in Papua New Guinea, Australia, Canada (British Columbia) and Ecuador cope with the challenges associated with COVID-19. A number of initiatives, ranging from immediate health assistance to livelihood restoration and economic recovery, have been funded to date.

    Newcrest continues to work with its partners, host governments, communities and Indigenous Peoples to prioritise and deliver programs under the Fund in the most effective manner.

    In line with the global vaccine rollout, the Fund is now primarily focused on supporting vaccination programs in host jurisdictions. Newcrest is one of three Founding Members of the UNICEF Australia COVID Vaccination Alliance which is committed to delivering COVID-19 vaccines to vulnerable communities worldwide. The Alliance brings together Australian organisations, companies and philanthropists to help deliver equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines to most at-risk communities.

    Interactive Analyst CentreTM

    Newcrest’s financial and operational information can now be viewed via the Interactive Analyst CentreTMwhich is locatedunder the Investor tab on Newcrest’s website (www.newcrest.com). This interactive tool allows users to chart and export Newcrest’s current and historical results for further analysis.

    Sandeep Biswas
    Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer

    Gold Production Summary

    March 2021
    Quarter
    Mine Production Tonnes
    (000’s)(28)
    Tonnes
    Treated

    (000’s)
    Head
    Grade
    (g/t Au)
    Gold
    Recovery

    (%)
    Gold Production
    (oz)
    Gold Sales
    (oz)
    All-In
    Sustaining
    Cost

    ($/oz)(2)
    Cadia East Panel Cave 11,036





    Cadia East Panel Cave 27,470





    Cadia East Panel Cave 2-3274





    Cadia(29)8,7807,8730.9476.2179,546175,295(160)
    Telfer Open Pit10,4074,0070.7576.573,354

    Telfer Underground5324961.9489.627,725

    Telfer Dump Leach



    4,149

    Telfer10,9394,5030.8879.7105,228102,4491,489
    Lihir9,0682,8352.5877.8183,231194,3561,293
    Red Chris6,1211,5140.4254.311,09510,7782,169
    Fruta del Norte(30)



    33,32433,324800
    Total34,90816,7261.1576.8512,424516,202891

    All figures are shown at 100%, except for Red Chris which is shown at Newcrest’s 70% share and Fruta del Norte which is shown at Newcrest’s 32% attributable share through its 32% equity interest in Lundin Gold Inc.

    Copper Production Summary

    March 2021
    Quarter
    Copper Grade
    (%)
    Copper Recovery
    (%)
    Concentrate
    Produced

    (tonnes)
    Metal Production
    (tonnes)
    Cadia0.4182.5110,20626,324
    Telfer Open Pit0.0859.421,7761,976
    Telfer Underground0.3790.916,4661,690
    Telfer0.1270.738,2423,666
    Red Chris0.4377.024,0885,044
    Total0.3080.3172,53635,034

    All figures are shown at 100%, except for Red Chris which is shown at Newcrest’s 70% share.

    Silver Production Summary

    March 2021
    Quarter
    Tonnes Treated
    (000’s)
    Silver Production
    (oz)
    Cadia7,873158,453
    Telfer4,50338,457
    Lihir2,8357,536
    Red Chris1,51424,096
    Total16,726228,543

    All figures are shown at 100%, except for Red Chris which is shown at Newcrest 70% share.

    All-In Sustaining Cost – March 2021 Quarter

    3 Months to 31 March 2021
    UnitsCadiaTelferLihirRed Chris Corp/
    Other
    Group(31)
    Gold Producedoz179,546105,228183,23111,095–479,100
    Mining$/oz prod.1767092651,571–359
    Milling$/oz prod.3644175501,098–464
    Administration and other$/oz prod.1182133661,443–265
    Lease adjustments$/oz prod(3)(32)(6)(8)–(11)
    Third party smelting, refining and transporting costs(32)$/oz prod.1811354645–114
    Royalties$/oz prod.101624794–72
    By-product credits$/oz prod.(1,228)(247)–(3,843)–(604)
    Ore inventory adjustments(33)$/oz prod.(15)(38)77(96)–14
    Production stripping adjustments(33)$/oz prod.––(240)(302)–(99)
    AOD adjustments(33)$/oz prod.–10–––2
    Net Cash Costs$/oz prod.(306)1,2291,063602–576
    Gold Soldoz175,295102,449194,35610,778–482,878
    Adjusted operating costs(34)$/oz sold(339)1,269988714–560
    Corporate general & administrative costs(35),(36)$/oz sold––––5656
    Reclamation and remediation costs$/oz sold641065–8
    Production stripping (sustaining)(37)$/oz sold––165311–74
    Advanced operating development$/oz sold–(11)–––(2)
    Capital expenditure (sustaining)$/oz sold1681511241,02814180
    Exploration (sustaining)$/oz sold2311––7
    Leases (sustaining)$/oz sold345551–14
    All-In Sustaining Cost$/oz sold(160)1,4891,2932,16970897
    Growth and development costs(36)$/oz sold––––55
    Capitalised stripping (non-sustaining)(37)$/oz sold––61––24
    Capital expenditure (non-sustaining)(38)$/oz sold650–7843912290
    Exploration (non-sustaining)$/oz sold33–8081535
    Leases (non-sustaining)$/oz sold6––––2
    All-In Cost$/oz sold4991,4921,4323,4161021,253
    Depreciation and amortisation(39)$/oz sold2582233111,63911314

    All figures are shown at 100%, except for Red Chris which is shown at 70%. AISC and AIC may not calculate based on amounts presented in these tables due to rounding.

    All-In Sustaining Cost – Nine months to 31 March 2021

    9 Months to 31 March 2021
    UnitsCadiaTelferLihir Red
    Chris
    Corp/
    Other
    Group(40)
    Gold Producedoz570,138290,535560,74135,107–1,456,521
    Mining$/oz prod.1747982531,615–363
    Milling$/oz prod.3284475471,072–454
    Administration and other$/oz prod.1072013061,293–231
    Lease Adjustments$/oz prod(3)(30)(6)(3)–(9)
    Third party smelting, refining and transporting costs(41)$/oz prod.1661213648–106
    Royalties$/oz prod.98554773–70
    By-product credits$/oz prod.(1,022)(199)–(3,693)–(529)
    Ore inventory adjustments(42)$/oz prod.4(23)7834–28
    Production stripping adjustments(42)$/oz prod.––(180)(635)–(85)
    AOD adjustments(42)$/oz prod.–10–––2
    Net Cash Costs$/oz prod.(148)1,3801,048404–631
    Gold Soldoz564,624275,537575,49535,253–1,450,909
    Adjusted operating costs(43)$/oz sold(160)1,4001,016410–617
    Corporate general & administrative costs(44),(45)$/oz sold––––5050
    Reclamation and remediation costs$/oz sold651064–8
    Production stripping (sustaining)(46)$/oz sold––155633–77
    Advanced operating development$/oz sold–(11)–––(2)
    Capital expenditure (sustaining)$/oz sold1361481451,57011187
    Exploration (sustaining)$/oz sold2201––5
    Leases (sustaining)$/oz sold345542–13
    All-In Sustaining Cost$/oz sold(13)1,6071,3322,71961955
    Growth and development costs(45)$/oz sold––––66
    Capitalised stripping (non-sustaining)(46)$/oz sold––21––8
    Capital expenditure (non-sustaining)(47)$/oz sold563–7733610268
    Exploration (non-sustaining)$/oz sold12–5123852
    Leases (non-sustaining)$/oz sold6––––2
    All-In Cost$/oz sold5571,6091,4303,5671151,291
    Depreciation and amortisation(48)$/oz sold2542423451,30911325

    All figures are shown at 100%, except for Red Chris which is shown at 70%. AISC and AIC may not calculate based on amounts presented in these tables due to rounding.

    Cannot view this image? Visit: https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/82190_newcrest1.jpg

    Simplified Lihir Pit Material Flow – March 2021 Quarter

    To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
    https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/82190_newcrest1enhanced.jpg

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    Simplified Lihir Process Flow – March 2021 Quarter

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    https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7614/82190_newcrest2enhanced.jpg

    Corporate Information

    Board

    Peter HayNon-Executive Chairman
    Sandeep BiswasManaging Director and CEO
    Gerard BondFinance Director and CFO
    Philip Aiken AM Non-Executive Director
    Roger HigginsNon-Executive Director
    Sally-Anne LaymanNon-Executive Director
    Vickki McFadden Non-Executive Director
    Peter Tomsett Non-Executive Director

    Company Secretaries
    Maria Sanz Perez and Claire Hannon

    Registered & Principal Office
    Level 8, 600 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
    Telephone: +61 (0)3 9522 5333
    Facsimile: +61 (0)3 9522 5500
    Email: corporateaffairs@newcrest.com.au
    Website: www.newcrest.com

    Stock Exchange Listings
    Australian Securities Exchange (Ticker NCM)
    Toronto Stock Exchange (Ticker NCM)
    PNGX Markets Limited (Ticker NCM)
    New York ADR’s (Ticker NCMGY)

    Forward Shareholder Enquiries to:

    Australia:
    Link Market Services
    Tower 4, 727 Collins Street
    Docklands, Victoria, 3008
    Australia
    Telephone: 1300 554 474
    +61 (0)2 8280 7111
    Facsimile: +61 (0)2 9287 0303
    Email: registrars@linkmarketservices.com.au
    Website: www.linkmarketservices.com.au

    Canada:
    AST Trust Company (Canada)
    P.O. Box 700, Station B
    Montreal, Quebec, H3B 3K3
    Canada
    +1 800 387 0825
    inquiries@astfinancial.com
    www.astfinancial.com

    Substantial Shareholder(s)(49) at 31 March 2021
    Allan Gray / Orbis Group 9.9%
    BlackRock Group 9.1%
    The Vanguard Group 5.1%

    Issued Share Capital
    At 31 March 2021, Newcrest’s issued capital was 817,289,692 ordinary shares.

    Quarterly Share Price Activity

    HighLowClose
    A$A$A$
    Jan – Mar 202125.2523.2424.42

    Forward Looking Statements

    This document includes forward looking statements and forward looking information within the meaning of securities laws of applicable jurisdictions. Forward looking statements can generally be identified by the use of words such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, “plan”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, “objectives”, “targets”, “outlook” and “guidance”, or other similar words and may include, without limitation, statements regarding estimated reserves and resources, certain plans, strategies, aspirations and objectives of management, anticipated production, study or construction dates, expected costs, cash flow or production outputs and anticipated productive lives of projects and mines. Newcrest continues to distinguish between outlook and guidance. Guidance statements relate to the current financial year. Outlook statements relate to years subsequent to the current financial year.

    These forward looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause Newcrest’s actual results, performance and achievements or industry results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements, or industry results, expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, changes in commodity prices, foreign exchange fluctuations and general economic conditions, increased costs and demand for production inputs, the speculative nature of exploration and project development, including the risks of obtaining necessary licences and permits and diminishing quantities or grades of reserves, political and social risks, changes to the regulatory framework within which Newcrest operates or may in the future operate, environmental conditions including extreme weather conditions, recruitment and retention of personnel, industrial relations issues and litigation. For further information as to the risks which may impact on Newcrest’s results and performance, please see the risk factors included in the Annual Information Form dated 13 October 2020 lodged with ASX and SEDAR.

    Forward looking statements are based on Newcrest’s good faith assumptions as to the financial, market, regulatory and other relevant environments that will exist and affect Newcrest’s business and operations in the future. Newcrest does not give any assurance that the assumptions will prove to be correct. There may be other factors that could cause actual results or events not to be as anticipated, and many events are beyond the reasonable control of Newcrest. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward looking statements, particularly in the current economic climate with the significant volatility, uncertainty and disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Forward looking statements in this document speak only at the date of issue. Except as required by applicable laws or regulations, Newcrest does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any of the forward looking statements or to advise of any change in assumptions on which any such statement is based.

    Non-IFRS Financial Information

    Newcrest results are reported under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). This document includes non-IFRS financial information within the meaning of ASIC Regulatory Guide 230: ‘Disclosing non-IFRS financial information’ published by ASIC and within the meaning of Canadian Securities Administrators Staff Notice 52-306 – Non-GAAP Financial Measures. Such information includes All-In Sustaining Cost (AISC) and All-In Cost (AIC) as per updated World Gold Council Guidance Note on Non-GAAP Metrics released in November 2018. AISC will vary from period to period as a result of various factors including production performance, timing of sales and the level of sustaining capital and the relative contribution of each asset. AISC Margin reflects the average realised gold price less AISC per ounce sold.

    These measures are used internally by Newcrest management to assess the performance of the business and make decisions on the allocation of resources and are included in this document to provide greater understanding of the underlying performance of Newcrest’s operations. The non-IFRS information has not been subject to audit or review by Newcrest’s external auditor and should be used in addition to IFRS information. Such non-IFRS information/non-GAAP measures do not have a standardised meaning prescribed by IFRS and may be calculated differently by other companies. Although Newcrest believes these non-IFRS/non-GAAP financial measures provide useful information to investors in measuring the financial performance and condition of its business, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any non-IFRS financial information/non-GAAP financial measures included in this document. When reviewing business performance, this non-IFRS information should be used in addition to, and not as a replacement of, measures prepared in accordance with IFRS, available on Newcrest’s website and the ASX and SEDAR platforms.

    Technical and Scientific Information

    The technical and scientific information contained in this document relating to Wafi-Golpu and Lihir was reviewed and approved by Craig Jones, Newcrest’s Chief Operating Officer PNG, FAusIMM and a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (NI 43-101). The technical and scientific information contained in this document relating to Cadia was reviewed and approved by Philip Stephenson, Newcrest’s Chief Operating Officer Australia and Americas, FAusIMM and a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101.

    Competent Persons’ Statement

    The information in this document that relates to Mineral Resources at Red Chris has been extracted from the release titled “Newcrest announces its initial Mineral Resource estimate for Red Chris” dated 31 March 2021 and which is available to view at www.asx.com.au under the code “NCM” (the original Red Chris release) and on Newcrest’s SEDAR profile. The information in this document that relates to Mineral Resources at Lihir is based on the release titled “Annual Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves Statement as at 31 December 2020” dated 11 February 2021 and which is available to view at www.asx.com.au under the code “NCM” (the Annual Statement) and on Newcrest’s SEDAR profile. Newcrest confirms that it is not aware of any new information or data that materially affects the information included in the original Red Chris release and the Annual Statement and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in such releases continue to apply and have not materially changed. Newcrest confirms that the form and context in which the competent persons’ findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original Red Chris release and the Annual Statement.

    Authorised by the Newcrest Disclosure Committee

    For further information please contact

    Investor Enquiries

    Tom Dixon
    +61 3 9522 5570
    +61 450 541 389
    Tom.Dixon@newcrest.com.au

    Ben Lovick
    +61 3 9522 5334
    +61 407 269 478
    Ben.Lovick@newcrest.com.au

    North American Investor Enquiries

    Ryan Skaleskog
    +1 866 396 0242
    +61 403 435 222
    Ryan.Skaleskog@newcrest.com.au

    Media Enquiries

    Tom Dixon
    +61 3 9522 5570
    +61 450 541 389
    Tom.Dixon@newcrest.com.au

    Annie Lawson
    +61 3 9522 5750
    +61 409 869 986
    Annie.Lawson@newcrest.com.au

    This information is available on our website at www.newcrest.com

    Appendix

    Reconciliation of Newcrest’s operational performance including its 32% attributable share of Fruta del Norte through its 32% equity interest in Lundin Gold Inc.

    Gold productionMetric Mar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    Gold production – Newcrest operationsoz479,100504,491472,9291,456,521
    Gold production – Fruta del Norte (32%)oz33,32430,98630,16094,469
    Gold productionoz512,424535,477503,0891,550,990

    All-In Sustaining CostMetric Mar 2021
    Qtr(50)
    Dec 2020
    Qtr(51)
    Sep 2020
    Qtr(52)
    YTD
    FY21
    All-in Sustaining Cost – Newcrest operations$m4334554981,386
    All-in Sustaining Cost – Fruta del Norte (32%)$m27261467
    All-In Sustaining Cost$m4604815121,453
    Gold ounces sold – Newcrest operationsoz482,878465,125502,9071,450,909
    Gold ounces sold – Fruta del Norte (32%)oz33,32433,98119,89187,196
    Total gold ounces sold oz516,202499,105522,7981,538,105
    All-In Sustaining Cost – Newcrest operations$/oz897979990955
    All-In Sustaining – Fruta del Norte (32%)$oz800747728763
    All-In Sustaining Cost $/oz891963980944

    All-In Sustaining Cost marginMetric Mar 2021
    Qtr
    Dec 2020
    Qtr
    Sep 2020
    Qtr
    YTD
    FY21
    Realised gold price(53)$/oz1,7511,8151,8371,801
    All-In Sustaining Cost – Newcrest operations$/oz897979990955
    All-In Sustaining Cost margin$/oz854836847846


    [1]See information under heading “Non-IFRS Financial Information” on Page 17 of this report for further information.

    [2] Includes 33koz and an estimated reduction of $6/oz based on Newcrest’s 32% attributable share of Fruta del Norte. Refer to the Appendix for calculation and further details.

    [3]Newcrest’s AISC margin has been determined by deducting the All-In Sustaining Cost attributable to Newcrest’s operations from Newcrest’s realised gold price.Refer to the Appendix for details.

    [4] The development of a block cave mine at Red Chris is subject to the completion of a successful exploration program and further studies, market and operating conditions, regulatory approvals and Board approvals.

    [5]Subject to market and operating conditions and potential delays due to COVID-19 impacts.

    [6]Subject to Board approval and potential delays due to COVID-19 impacts.

    [7]The achievement of guidance is subject to market and operating conditions. Newcrest’s guidance for Fruta del Norte is an annualised figure based on Lundin Gold Inc’s production guidance for 1 July 2020 to 31 December 2020. See Appendix for further details.

    [8]The figures shown represent Newcrest’s 70% share of the unincorporated Red Chris JV.Production outcomes for FY20 are reported from the date of acquisition (15 August 2019).

    [9] The figures shown represent 100%. Prior to the divestment on 4 March 2020, Newcrest owned 75% of Gosowong through its holding in PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals, an incorporated joint venture. Production and financial outcomesfor FY20 represent Newcrest’s period of ownership to the divestment date.

    [10]The figures shown represent Newcrest’s 32%attributable share, through its 32% equity interest in Lundin Gold Inc.

    [11]Total Recordable Injury Frequency Rate (injuries per million hours). TRIFR for FY20 includes safety results for Red Chris from acquisition.

    [12]Due to the negligible impact of Fruta del Norte on Newcrest’s Group AISC for FY20 it has been excluded from the FY20 calculation.

    [13]AISCfor the December 2020 quarter has been restated following the release of Lundin Gold’s 2020 Annual Report on 15 March 2021.This had a $5/oz benefit to Newcrest’s previously reported AISC outcome for the December 2020 quarter.

    [14]The prior period AISC and AIC has been restated to reflect adjustments applied to Red Chris following the completion of acquisition and year end processes.

    [15]From Newcrest’s operations only and does not include Newcrest’s 32% attributable share of Fruta del Norte through its 32%equityinterest in Lundin Gold Inc.

    [16]Realised metal prices are the US$ spot prices at the time of sale per unit of metal sold (net of Telfer gold production hedges), excluding deductions related to treatment and refining charges and the impact of price related finalisations for metals in concentrate. The realised price for the September, December and March quarters and for FY20 and FY21 has been calculated from sales ounces generated by Newcrest’s operations only (i.e. excluding Fruta del Norte).

    [17] Subject to market and operating conditions and potential delays due to COVID-19 impacts.

    [18]Subject to Board approval andpotential delays due to COVID-19 impacts.

    [19]At current milling rates. The estimate of an additional ~400-600koz of contained gold in FY23-25 is subject to the successful completion of the Phase 14A Pre-Feasibility Study and assumes the successful conversion of 20Mt of existing Indicated Mineral Resource to Probable Ore Reserves. The estimate represents the difference between the indicative mine plan base case (inclusive of the outcomes of the Lihir Mine Optimisation Study) and any potential uplift that Phase 14A could provide as a result of the replacement of ~11Mt of low grade ore feed with higher grade during this period. The estimate of ~20Mt of Indicated Mineral Resource underpinning the estimate of ~400-600koz of contained gold has been prepared based on an annualised ~15mtpa mill feed rate, expit TMM range of 41-63mtpa, from which 6-12mtpa is allocated to Phase 14A, mill recovery of 75-82%, inter-ramp slope design of approximately 79 degrees in the upper argillic rock benches supported by long cables with mesh and shotcrete to enable safe steepening of the existing unsupported slopes of 20-35 degrees, and the lower unsupported benches at historical 62 degree slopes. The estimate of ~20Mt of Indicated Mineral Resource has been prepared in accordance with the requirements in Appendix 5A of the ASX Listing Rules by a Competent Person. For further information as to the total Indicated Mineral Resources for Lihir of which the 20Mt of Indicated Mineral Resources is part, see the release titled “Annual Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves Statement – 31 December 2020” which is available to view at www.asx.com.au under the code “NCM” and on Newcrest’s SEDAR profile.

    [20] AISC margin calculated with reference to the Group average realised gold price.

    [21]The figures shown represent Newcrest’s 70% shareof the unincorporated Red Chris JV. Productionand financial outcomesfor FY20 are reported fromthe date of acquisition (15 August 2019).

    [22]Prior period AISC has been restated to reflect adjustments applied following the completion of acquisition and year end processes.

    [23]Newcrest’s initial Mineral Resource estimate for Red Chris is presented at 100%. Newcrest’s joint venture interest in the Mineral Resource estimate is 70%.

    [24]The development of a block cave mine at the Red Chris project is subject to the completion of a successful exploration program and further studies, market and operating conditions, regulatory approvals and Board approvals.

    [25]Subject to Board approval and potential delays due to COVID-19 impacts.

    [26] In addition, the development of any underground mine at the Havieron Project will also be subject to the completion of a successful exploration program and further studies, market and operating conditions, Board approvals, and a positive decision to mine.

    [27]Subject to market and operating conditions and potential delays due to COVID-19 impacts.

    [28] Mine production for open pit and underground includes ore and waste.

    [29] Includes development tonnesfrom the Cadia East PC2-3 project. Costs associated with this production were capitalised and are not included in the AISC calculation in this report.

    [30]Due to timing of Lundin Gold’s March 2021 quarterly report, Newcrest has estimated its 32% attributable share, through its 32% equity interest in Lundin Gold Inc, of Fruta del Norte’s All-In Sustaining Cost for the quarter. For the purposes of All-In Sustaining Cost, Newcrest has assumed that production is equal to sales. Refer to the Appendix for further details.

    [31]Group AISC is for Newcrest’s operations only and does not include Newcrest’s 32% attributable share of Fruta del Norte.

    [32] Includes deductions related to treatment and refining charges for metals in concentrate.

    [33] Represents adjustment for ore inventory movements, removal of production stripping costs and movement in Advanced Operating Development costs.

    [34] Adjusted operating costs represents net cash costs adjusted for finished goods inventory movements, divided by ounces sold.

    [35] Corporate general & administrative costs includes share-based remuneration.

    [36] Costs of this nature were previously reported within Corporate Costs. In accordance with the updated World Gold Council guidance, growth and development costs are now presented in AIC.

    [37]In accordance with World Gold Council Guidance stripping campaigns can be classified as non-sustaining expenditure if they are expected to take at least 12 months and are expected to deliver ore production for more than five years. Newcrest has determined that Phase 16 at Lihir satisfies this criteria and has reported spend in relation to this campaign as capitalised stripping (non-sustaining).

    [38]Represents spend on major projects that are designed to increase the net present value of the mine are not related to current production. Significant projects in the current period include key expansion projects at Cadia (including PC2-3 developmentand the molybdenum plant)and Lihir (Seepage Barrier feasibilitystudy, front end recovery and HV upgrade).

    [39] Depreciation and amortisation of mine site assets is determined on the basis of the lesser of the asset’s useful economic life and the life of the mine.Life-of-mine assets are depreciated according to units of production and the remainder on a straight line basis. Depreciation and amortisation does not form part of All-In Sustaining Cost or All-in Cost with the exception of amortisation on reclamation and remediation (rehabilitation) assets.

    [40]Group AISC is for Newcrest’s operations only and does not include Newcrest’s 32% attributable share of Fruta del Norte.

    [41] Includes deductions related to treatment and refining charges for metals in concentrate.

    [42] Represents adjustment for ore inventory movements, removal of production stripping costs and movement in Advanced Operating Development costs.

    [43] Adjusted operating costs represents net cash costs adjusted for finished goods inventory movements, divided by ounces sold.

    [44] Corporate general & administrative costs includes share-based remuneration.

    [45] Costs of this nature were previously reported within Corporate Costs. In accordance with the updated World Gold Council guidance, growth and development costs are now presented in AIC.

    [46]In accordance with World Gold Council Guidance stripping campaigns can be classified as non-sustaining expenditure if they are expected to take at least 12 months and are expected to deliver ore production for more than five years. Newcrest has determined that Phase 16 at Lihir satisfies this criteria and has reported spend in relation to this campaign as capitalised stripping (non-sustaining).

    [47]Represents spend on major projects that are designed to increase the net present value of the mine are not related to current production. Significant projects in the year include key expansion projects at Cadia (including PC2-3 feasibility study and the molybdenum plant) and Lihir (Seepage Barrier feasibility study, front end recovery and HV upgrade).

    [48] Depreciation and amortisation of mine site assets is determined on the basis of the lesser of the asset’s useful economic life and the life of the mine.Life-of-mine assets are depreciated according to units of production and the remainder on a straight line basis. Depreciation and amortisation does not form part of All-In Sustaining Cost or All-in Cost with the exception of amortisation on reclamation and remediation (rehabilitation) assets.

    [49]As notified to Newcrest under section 671B of the Corporations Act 2001.

    [50]Due to timing of Lundin Gold’s March 2021 quarterly report, Newcrest has estimated its 32% attributable share, through its 32% equity interest in Lundin Gold Inc, of Fruta del Norte’s All-In Sustaining Cost for the March quarter. The AISC estimate was derived by taking the mid-point of Lundin Gold’s CY21 AISC guidance of $770-830/oz (released 15 March 2021). For the purposes of AISC, Newcrest has assumed that production is equal to sales. Newcrest will restate its March quarter AISC outcome in June once the outcomes for Fruta del Norte’s March quarter are known. On the basis of materiality, Newcrest has not restated its FY21 guidance for Fruta del Norte. Newcrest’s guidance with respect to the gold production of Fruta del Norte is based on Lundin Gold’s July to December 2020 guidance of 150,000 – 170,000 ounces which has been annualised on the assumption that production levels will be same for the January to June 2021 period (presented at 32% and rounded to nearest 5koz). With respect to Newcrest’s guidance for AISC, the dollar million range has been derived by multiplying the low end of annualised production of Newcrest’s guidance by the high end of Lundin Gold’s July – December 2020 AISC guidance of $770/oz – $850/oz, and the high end of annualised production of Newcrest’s guidance multiplied by the low end of the same AISC guidance range.

    [51]The All-In Sustaining Cost and gold ounces sold outcomes for Fruta del Note for the December 2020 quarter have been restated following the release of Lundin Gold’s December quarterly report on 15 March 2021. This had a $5/oz benefit to Newcrest’s previously reported All-In Sustaining Cost outcome for the December quarter.

    [52]The All-In Sustaining Cost and gold ounces sold outcomes for Fruta del Norte for the September 2020 quarter have been restated following the release of Lundin Gold’s September quarterly report on 9 November 2020. Newcrest’s All-In Sustaining Cost outcome of $980/oz for the September quarter remains unchanged.

    [53]Realised metal prices are the US$ spot prices at the time of sale per unit of metal sold (net of Telfer production hedges), excluding deductions related to treatment and refining charges and the impact of price related finalisations for metals in concentrate. The realised price for the September, December and March quarters and for FY21 has been calculated from sales ounces generated by Newcrest’s operations only (i.e. excluding Fruta del Norte).

    To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/82190

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    Ana Paula is a high-grade underground gold project in Guerrero and the cornerstone of Heliostar’s long-term growth strategy.

    The November 2025 PEA outlines a 9 year mine life with 101,000 oz/year production, 874,700 oz total output, and strong economics, including a US$1,012M NPV5% and a 51.3 percent IRR, supported by a low AISC of US$1,011/oz.

    The project hosts approximately 742,000 oz measured and indicated at 5.4 g/t and 514,000 oz inferred, highlighting its high-grade profile and expansion potential.

    Heliostar Metals Guerrero Gold Belt

    With a feasibility study targeted for H1 2027 and construction expected in H2 of the same year, Ana Paula is expected to become the primary driver of Heliostar’s transition to mid-tier production.

    The company is targeting production at Ana Paula in 2028.

    La Colorada Mine

    Heliostar Metals \u200bLa Colorada Mine

    La Colorada in Sonora is a key cash-flowing asset that underwent a successful turnaround in 2025. The mine hosts reserves of 376,000 ounces of gold grading 0.68 g/t in 17.1 million tonnes of ore.

    The mine is expected to produce 20,000–22,300 oz in 2026 at AISC of US$1,775–1,875/oz, supported by a six-year mine life and approximately 286,000 oz total production profile.

    Mining at the project’s Veta Madre pit commenced in August 2026, a milestone that the company ties to its plan to secure cash flow through 2027 and 2028 to support construction at Ana Paula.

    Ongoing drilling, pit expansions and underground potential provide meaningful upside, reinforcing its role as a core funding engine for development.

    Heliostar Metals 2026 Guidance

    San Agustin Mine

    San Agustin in Durango is a restarted oxide heap-leach operation providing near-term production growth and cash flow.

    2026 guidance targets 30,000–32,700 oz of gold at AISC of US$2,150–2,250/oz, following a low-capital restart funded from the company’s balance sheet.

    The asset offers additional upside through oxide expansion and sulphide exploration, supporting potential mine life extension.

    Cerro del Gallo Project

    Cerro del Gallo is a large-scale gold-silver development project in Guanajuato and a key driver of future production growth.

    The 2025 PFS outlines ~86,000 GEO/year over a 15-year mine life at US$1,390 AISC, with strong economics, including US$972 million NPV5% and 59.3 percent IRR at higher gold price assumptions.

    The project is expected to play a central role in advancing Heliostar towards the goal of 500,000 oz annual production by 2030.

    San Antonio Project

    San Antonio is a 100%-owned heap-leach development project offering strong optionality and long-life production potential.

    The project hosts approximately 1.74 million ounces of measured and indicated gold and demonstrates attractive optionality, including potential 80,000 oz/year production and low AISC of US$1,063/oz.

    As permitting advances, San Antonio represents a key medium-term growth opportunity within the portfolio.

    Goldstrike Project (Utah, USA)

    Goldstrike is a newly acquired gold project that expands Heliostar’s footprint in the United States and adds exploration and development optionality. The property currently hosts an Indicated resource of 975 kilo ounces at 0.46 g/t of gold.

    The project hosts a near-surface oxide gold system with historical production of approximately 209,000 ounces of gold and defined mineralization, offering potential for low-cost, open-pit heap-leach development. Its geological setting and existing dataset provide a strong foundation for resource growth and technical advancement.

    Goldstrike complements Heliostar’s acquisition strategy by adding a scalable, underexplored asset outside its core Mexican portfolio, enhancing long-term growth potential.

    Drilling is underway at Goldstrike to test the antimony and gold potential of both Antimony Ridge and Antimony Knoll, with results expected towards the end of 2026.

    Management Team

    Charles Funk – President & CEO

    Charles Funk has over 20 years of experience in exploration and business development, including senior roles at Newcrest Mining and OZ Minerals. He led the Panuco discovery for Vizsla Silver, demonstrating strong capability in identifying high-value deposits. At Heliostar, he has driven the company’s transformation into a multi-asset gold producer through disciplined acquisitions. His leadership is focused on building a scalable, mid-tier gold platform.

    Gregg Bush – Chief Operating Officer (COO)

    Gregg Bush is a proven mine builder with extensive experience in mine development, integration and operations. He previously served as COO of Capstone Mining and held senior leadership roles at Equinox Gold. Bush brings deep expertise in optimizing operating assets and advancing projects into production. He plays a key role in executing Heliostar’s production growth strategy.

    Sam Anderson – VP Projects

    Sam Anderson has approximately 25 years of experience in mine geology and project development, including 17 years at Newmont. He played a key role in advancing the Merian Mine from resource stage through construction to steady-state production. His expertise spans exploration, resource expansion and project execution. At Heliostar, he leads the advancement of key development assets.

    Mike Gingles – VP Corporate Development

    Mike Gingles brings more than 35 years of experience in the mining industry, specializing in corporate development and M&A. He played a leadership role in major transactions including Pueblo Viejo and Turquoise Ridge. His expertise includes project evaluation, deal structuring and strategic partnerships. He supports Heliostar’s acquisition-driven growth strategy.

    Hernan Dorado – VP Sustainability & Special Projects

    Hernan Dorado is a fifth-generation miner with over 20 years of experience in mining operations, particularly in Mexico. He was a founding member of Guanajuato Silver, where he served as COO. His expertise includes permitting, community engagement and sustainability practices. He ensures responsible development across Heliostar’s operations.

    Vitalina Lyssoun – Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

    Vitalina Lyssoun is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) with more than 16 years of experience in financial management within the resource sector. She has extensive expertise in public company reporting, compliance and internal controls. Prior to joining Heliostar, she led the corporate accounting function at Gatos Silver. Her experience spans multiple international jurisdictions.

    Stephen Soock – VP Investor Relations & Development

    Stephen Soock has nearly 20 years of experience across mining operations and capital markets. He began his career in technical roles at mine sites before transitioning to equity research, where he spent eight years covering growth-stage mining companies. He is a mining engineer and CFA Charterholder. At Heliostar, he leads investor relations and supports capital markets strategy.

    Silver Hammer Mining

    Silver Hammer Mining (HAMR:CC)
    HAMR:CC

    Renforth Resources

    Renforth Resources (RFR:CC)
    RFR:CC

    Orosur Mining

    OMI:CC

    GoldInxs Mining

    GoldInxs Mining (INXS:CC)
    INXS:CC

    Investor Insight

    GoldInxs Mining Corp. (TSXV:INXS, OTCQB: INXGF) provides investors with exposure to early-stage gold-copper exploration in British Columbia, leveraging a portfolio of high-potential projects in Tier 1 jurisdictions, within established gold districts, surrounded by strong regional infrastructure and led by an experienced management team committed to accelerating discovery and delivering shareholder value.

    GoldInxs Mining Corp

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    Overview

    GoldInxs Mining Corp. is a discovery-focused mineral exploration company dedicated to identifying and advancing high-potential copper-gold assets in proven geological belts. The Company's strategy centers on acquiring overlooked and underexplored projects with large-scale potential, applying modern exploration techniques to rapidly evaluate targets and unlock shareholder value through discovery.

    The Company’s. common shares started trading on the TSX Venture Exchange in July 2026 under the symbol INXS, positioning itself to capitalize on favorable copper and gold market fundamentals.

    GoldInxs Mining sample rocks

    Copper demand is forecasted to grow steadily through 2030, with the global copper market expected to expand to over US$340 billion by 2030, driven by electric vehicles, renewable energy and infrastructure growth.

    On the other hand, gold continues to provide a safe-haven hedge against policy risks and market volatility, making GoldInxs’ dual focus on copper and gold particularly compelling for investors.

    The Company’s portfolio is anchored by two priority projects: the Fishpot Project in central British Columbia, interpreted as an emerging, large epithermal system with strong infrastructure access and jurisdiction quality as well as early indications of blackwater-style mineralization, and the non-core Millar Project in the prolific B.C Golden Triangle, a district renowned for world-class discoveries. While surrounding deposits attracted billions of dollars in investment, Fishpot received only sporadic historical exploration despite widespread hydrothermal alteration and numerous anomalous gold, silver and copper results. Artemis Gold’s Blackwater Mine has announced tripling production with an intended $1.56B investment, which sits only 65 km from the Fishpot property.

    Backed by a management team with expertise in exploration, project development and capital markets, GoldInxs is positioned to rapidly advance its assets, deliver near-term exploration catalysts and create shareholder value through discovery and strategic growth.

    Company Highlights

    • Mining-friendly jurisdiction: Projects are in British Columbia, which ranked second in Canada and 20th globally in the 2025 Fraser Institute investment attractiveness rankings.
    • Flagship and district-scale assets: Portfolio is anchored by the flagship Fishpot Project (“Fishpot”) in central B.C., showing strong geological indicators of mineralization, blackwater-style mineralization potential and immense exploration upside potential with only 378 meters of historical drilling. Fishpot is strategically located in the same region as Artemis Gold’s Blackwater Mine and Evolution Mining’s optioned Clisbako property.
    • Clear path to 2026 catalysts: GoldInxs secured a drill permit for an upcoming maiden 2,000-metre drill program at Fishpot, near-term exploration programs are designed to define mineralized systems, outline blackwater-style potential and create shareholder value following the completion of a 3D IP survey and drill targeting.

    Key Projects

    Fishpot Project

    GoldInxs Mining Fishpot Project


    Fistpot property

    The Fishpot Project represents the cornerstone asset within the GoldInxs portfolio. Covering up to 5,500 hectares in Central British Columbia, and located ~95 km north of Quesnel, Fishpot hosts a large hydrothermal alteration system that exhibits many of the geological characteristics observed in major epithermal and intrusion-related gold systems throughout the region. Fishpot encompasses five claim blocks, held under an option to acquire 100 percent subject to a 2 percent NSR, representing a significant exploration opportunity in a highly prospective region.

    Fishpot represents a largely untested hydrothermal mineral system where multiple independent exploration datasets, including gold-silver-copper surface geochemistry, alteration and geology, airborne magnetics, 3D IP chargeability/resistivity and identified epithermal-to-potential-porphyry target environments, are converging to define drill targets, despite only 378 metres of historical drilling across two holes.

    Fishpot is situated within the highly prospective Stikine Terrane and is underlain by Hazelton Group volcanic rocks and intrusive units comparable to those associated with several significant deposits in British Columbia. Extensive quartz-sericite alteration, hydrothermal brecciation, pyrite mineralization and multi-element geochemical anomalies support the interpretation of a robust mineralizing system. Fishpot is strategically positioned near active and historical mining operations, including Artemis Gold’s Blackwater Deposit, Newton Gold Project, Capoose and 3Ts Project, underscoring its large-scale discovery potential. Importantly, based on early-exploration results, Fishpot shares several regional geological characteristics commonly associated with Blackwater-style gold systems, including felsic volcanics, strong alteration, pyrite-rich mineralization and gold-silver geochemical associations. Despite the similarities the Company cannot yet make any formal connections to the surrounding properties, nor can they guarantee that such deposits exist on their ground.

    Fishpot Exploration Technology: GoldInxs advanced its Fishpot targeting program by combining a conventional 3D IP survey with emerging Virtual DRILL™ remote-sensing technology as an additional targeting layer, using multiple geological, geochemical and geophysical datasets to refine and prioritize targets ahead of a planned ~2,000-metre drill program.

    Fishpot Drill Permit & Expansion: GoldInxs has received the required drilling permits and expanded Fishpot to 5,509 hectares, positioning the Company to proceed with its inaugural ~2,000-metre modern drill program on a property that has seen very limited historical drilling, while refining targets through integrated geological, geochemical and geophysical data.

    Despite multiple encouraging exploration indicators, Fishpot has been subjected to only two historic drill holes totaling 378 metres, leaving the broader mineral system largely untested and providing significant leverage to future exploration success.

    Recent exploration completed by GoldInxs generated the highest reported gold value on Fishpot to date, returning up to 5.65 g/t Au from surface sampling, while airborne geophysical surveys identified multiple coincident magnetic and geochemical anomalies that have strengthened the Company's exploration model and target pipeline.

    The 2025 program returned rock samples of up to 5.65 g/t Au, 11.35 g/t Ag and 0.42% Cu, while historical work reportedly returned up to 4.36 g/t Au and 3.2% Cu.

    The property exhibits the potential low-sulphidation epithermal targets at Fishpot North, intermediate-sulphidation signatures at Fishpot East, and a large central magnetic high being evaluated for potential porphyry mineralization at depth. The Company is focused on finalizing drill targeting and preparing for the inaugural diamond drill campaign at Fishpot in the coming months following completion of the IP survey. GoldInxs is preparing to drill-test a 5,509-hectare, largely undrilled hydrothermal system in central British Columbia where high-grade surface gold-silver-copper results, Blackwater-style geological characteristics and multiple coincident geophysical targets have converged to define a portfolio of high-priority exploration targets.

    Management Team

    Nick Michael – President and CEO

    Mr. Michael is a veteran mining executive and technical director with over 37 years of global experience spanning mine development, engineering and operational leadership. His expertise covers the full project lifecycle, including design, construction, technical due diligence and Independent Engineer assignments for institutional investors and project financiers. He also leads CJK Milling, a company focused on reprocessing historical mine waste to recover discarded gold decades ago, when it was less valuable.

    Carlo Rigillo, CPA, Chief Financial Officer

    Mr. Rigillo is an experienced Chartered Professional Accountant with over two decades of experience. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Toronto.

    Barry Miller – Executive Chairman and Director

    Mr. Miller brings over 30 years of experience in public markets, including roles as a broker, consultant and financier. He is the founder of GoldInxs and has been actively involved in the resource sector through leadership positions, including as director of Tinova Resources Corp., an exploration company focused on tin and rare earth elements in British Columbia and Alaska.

    Tara Asfour - Vice President, Corporate Development and Communications

    An executive consultant with over 13 years of experience, Tara Asfour holds expertise in corporate development, capital markets, investor relations and strategic communications. She has led strategic financings, partnerships and offtake initiatives within the resource sector through previous corporate development and investor relations roles with multiple publicly listed companies.

    Al Fabbro – Director

    With over three decades of experience spanning both the mining and finance sectors, Mr. Fabbro previously led Yorkton Securities’ retail trading department and was part of its Natural Resources Group. He later served as Lead Director of Roxgold Inc. and currently holds executive leadership roles in the mining industry.

    Darcy Vis, P.Geo. – VP Exploration and Director

    Mr. Vis is an economic geologist with over 17 years of experience in mineral exploration. He has held senior technical roles across multiple exploration companies and is the President of Tripoint Geological Services Ltd. His expertise includes target generation, project evaluation and exploration program execution.

    Stephen Soock, P.Eng., CFA – Director

    Mr. Soock is a mining professional with nearly 20 years of experience spanning both technical operations and capital markets. He currently serves as Vice President, Investor Relations and Development at Heliostar Metals.

    Christopher Kelly, PQS, FCIArb – Director

    Mr. Kelly has over 15 years of experience in construction and natural resources. He holds a BSc in Construction Economics and Management and an MSc in Construction Law and Dispute Resolution, and runs Trachtala Consulting Ltd.

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