Brace for impact, Fools. For those with investments in the mining sector, the fourth quarter is shaping up to be a minefield for gold miners.
Gammon Gold
Gammon posted an excruciatingly high cash cost per gold equivalent ounce (GEO) of $735 for the latest quarter, canceling out one of the company's highest production figures ever. Several factors conspired to press costs higher, including a less favorable ratio between the prices of gold and silver, and restructuring costs associated with a workforce reduction of 254 employees at the El Cubo Mine.
Whereas Yamana Gold
Gammon certainly does not stand alone in reporting significant cost increases. Even economies of scale couldn't prevent costs from climbing to near $500 per ounce for megaminers like Newmont Mining
I expect dismal metal prices in the fourth quarter to hinder byproduct credits for all miners; the entire group should feel substantial cost pressure until conditions improve. Based upon Gammon's current cost profile, I must suggest that Fools keep digging for better bargains within the gold patch.
Further Foolishness:
- Agnico-Eagle is worth its wait.
- The mother lode of gold.
- I don't believe silver can stay down for long.