Contango ORE Updates Credit Facility and Gold Production Plans
Contango ORE Modifies Credit Facility Details
Contango ORE, Inc. (“Contango”) is taking important steps to enhance its financial strategy by amending its credit facility. This newly revised agreement allows for a deferment of the repayment of $10.6 million in principal as well as the delivery of 15,000 hedged gold ounces, extending these obligations into the first half of 2027. The maturity date for the updated credit facility has been pushed back to June 30, 2027, offering the company improved flexibility in managing its financial commitments.
Anticipated Impact of the New Repayment Schedule
With this adjustment, Contango anticipates significant benefits from the new repayment timeline. The company expects to have exposure to spot gold prices on approximately 30% of net production volumes for 2025 and 2026, with this exposure rising to 80% in 2027 and reaching 100% thereafter. According to current estimates, projected cash flows attributable to the Peak Gold Joint Venture (PGJV) are expected to be around $80 million in 2027 and $70 million in 2028.
First Gold Campaign of 2025 Underway
The company also announced the commencement of its first gold production campaign for 2025. This initiative kicked off on February 7, and Contango estimates that their portion of gold production from this campaign will be between 15,000 and 18,000 ounces. The mining operations at the Manh Choh site are progressing smoothly, with ore being transported to the Fort Knox processing facility.
Confidence in Future Cash Flows
Rick Van Nieuwenhuyse, the President and CEO of Contango, expressed optimism regarding the financial enhancements made through the amended repayment plan. He noted that the company would benefit from several positive factors, including maintaining significant exposure to gold price increases while fulfilling its repayment obligations. With gold prices currently near $2,900 per ounce, the expected free cash flows could substantially exceed earlier projections based on lower gold pricing assumptions.
Operational Updates and Strategic Outlook
Contango is keen on enhancing operational efficiencies as well. The PGJV, operated by Kinross, is investigating various strategies intended to lower operational costs, including innovations to decrease moisture content in ore and prevent ice and snow accumulation during transport. These initiatives are anticipated to positively influence future profitability.
Approved Preliminary Economic Assessment
Further progress has been made on the preliminary economic assessment concerning the Johnson Tract project. It is expected that the PEA will be finalized and publicly disclosed soon, with insights likely to be beneficial for evaluating the full potential of this project.
Company Overview and Future Initiatives
As a publicly listed entity, Contango is actively engaged in exploring gold and associated minerals in Alaska. Holding a strategic 30% stake in the Peak Gold JV, the company covers a vast land area of about 675,000 acres for potential exploration and development in the Manh Choh region. The company continues to maintain other significant projects including a lease on the Johnson Tract and 100% ownership of surrounding mining claims.
Engagement with Investors
Contango remains committed to transparency and is planning a live webcast to discuss the recent updates and future strategies. Interested parties are encouraged to participate in these discussions to gain more insights into the company’s progression and market strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Contango ORE, Inc. focusing on currently?
Contango is focusing on amending its credit facility terms and initiating its gold production campaign for 2025.
What are the expected cash flows for Contango in the near future?
Projected cash flows are expected to be approximately $80 million in 2027 and $70 million in 2028 based on the current gold price forecasts.
How much gold is projected to be produced in 2025?
The company estimates a gold production range of 15,000 to 18,000 ounces from its first campaign in 2025.
Who operates the Peak Gold JV?
The Peak Gold Joint Venture is operated by Kinross, a key partner in Contango's mining initiatives.
When can we expect the preliminary economic assessment to be released?
The preliminary economic assessment for the Johnson Tract project is anticipated to be completed and released soon.
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