Transaction in-line with strategy to focus on Tier 1 asset portfolio
DENVER--BUSINESS WIRE--
Newmont Corporation (NYSE: NEM, TSX: NGT, ASX: NEM, PNGX: NEM) ("Newmont" or the "Company") has announced today it will sell its Akyem operation in the Republic of Ghana to Zijin Mining Group Co., Ltd. ("Zijin") under a definitive agreement, for cash consideration of up to $1 billion. The sale is part of Newmont's ongoing program to divest non-core assets as the Company makes a strategic shift to focus on its Tier 1 assets.
Under the terms of the agreement, Newmont is expected to receive cash consideration of $900 million upon closing. A further $100 million is expected to be received upon the satisfaction of certain conditions.1
Proceeds from the transaction will support the Company's capital allocation priorities, including strengthening the balance sheet and returning capital to shareholders.
"The sale of Akyem represents continued progress on the non-core asset divestiture program announced in February, supporting our focus on the Tier 1 assets in Newmont's portfolio that will drive sustainable growth and the return of capital to shareholders," said Tom Palmer, Newmont's President and Chief Executive Officer. "We believe the proposed transaction results in the greatest overall value for Newmont shareholders and is the best strategic fit for Akyem. We are confident that Akyem will continue to thrive under new ownership with long-term benefits for local stakeholders and surrounding communities. The successful completion of this transaction will strengthen our confidence in Ghana as a favorable mining jurisdiction and Newmont will continue to support the growth and development of the region including our development of Ahafo North."
"In line with President Afuko-Addo's address in February we ensured that our robust divestment process provided equal opportunity for all potential buyers, Ghanaian and international, to participate," said Rahman Amoadu, Newmont Managing Director, Africa. "Additionally, we have included the Minerals Income Investment Fund (MIIF) in the process in preparation of their potential investment in Akyem to further Ghanaian interest in the mine."
The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2024, contingent on satisfaction of customary conditions precedent, including regulatory approvals. As a result, the transaction is not expected to have a material impact on Newmont's 2024 outlook and the Company has not adjusted its non-core guidance for the year.
Newmont remains committed to Ghana including the investment of $950 million to $1,050 million of development capital in the Ahafo North gold mining project in the Ahafo region of Ghana.
Advisers and Counsel
In connection with the transaction, Citi acted as Newmont's exclusive financial adviser, Treadstone Resource Partners acted as strategic adviser, and Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP and Reindorf Chambers acted as legal advisers.
About Newmont
Newmont is the world's leading gold company and a producer of copper, zinc, lead, and silver. The Company's world-class portfolio of assets, prospects and talent is anchored in favorable mining jurisdictions in Africa, Australia, Latin America & Caribbean, North America, and Papua New Guinea. Newmont is the only gold producer listed in the S&P 500 Index and is widely recognized for its principled environmental, social, and governance practices. Newmont is an industry leader in value creation, supported by robust safety standards, superior execution, and technical expertise. Founded in 1921, the Company and has been publicly traded since 1925.
