BTO: Nicaragua Mines Performing Well

MICHAEL GRAY, Macquarie Research (01/25/2011)
"Yesterday, before market open, B2Gold reported production results at its 100%-owned La Libertad and 95%-owned Limon gold mines in Nicaragua for Q410. Gold production was 37 Koz. for total 2010 production of 109 Koz. gold, which exceeded both our Q410 and 2010 production estimates of 32 Koz. and 104 Koz. gold, respectively.

The company increased 2011 gold production guidance to 135 Koz. (was 125 Koz.) at cash operating costs of US$540–US$560/oz. This compares with our estimate of 131 Koz. gold at US$604/oz. B2Gold indicated that capex of US$48M (US$28M La Libertad; US$20M Limon) in 2011 will be for high pre-stripping costs at La Libertad and underground development/tailings construction at Limon.

B2Gold has successfully moved La Libertad into full production and has delivered 40 Koz. in 2010 from Limon—a six-year production high—on the back of capital investment and labor-relations issues solutions."

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