Final Results
Anglo American PLC
21 February 2007
News Release
21 February 2007
Anglo American announces record earnings of $5.5 billion, up 46%
Financial results
• Operating profit(1) increased to $9.8 billion, up 54%
• Record underlying earnings(2) of $5.5 billion, up 46% over 2005
• Strong performances from Platinum; Base Metals; Ferrous Metals and
Gold
• Record production levels across most commodities
• Cost savings of $583 million achieved, despite ongoing industry cost
pressures
• $6.9 billion of projects currently under development; projects
approved in 2006 include $1.2 billion Barro Alto nickel and
$1.6 billion of platinum projects
Capital return/dividends
• Additional buyback of $3 billion announced for 2007, following $7.5
billion announced in 2006, totalling $10.5 billion
• Ongoing capital management programme
• Final dividend up 21% to 75 US cents per share, bringing total normal
dividends for the year to 108 US cents per share - up 20%
Strategic progress
• AngloGold Ashanti - interest reduced to 42% - initial $1 billion
realised - phased exit strategy
• Approval obtained for Dual Listed Company Structure for Mondi
• Kumba restructuring completed resulting in a 64% direct interest in
Kumba Iron Ore
• Tarmac portfolio restructured; good progress on operational
improvements
• Disposal of major portion of Highveld Steel - $412 million received
for 49.8% stake
• Tongaat-Hulett: announces broad based BEE proposals and Hulamin
demerger
HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE YEAR TO 31 DECEMBER 2006 Year ended Year ended %
US$ million, except per share amounts 31.12.06 31.12.05 change
Group revenue including associates(3) 38,637 34,472 12%
Operating profit including associates before special items and 9,832 6,376 54%
remeasurements(1)
Profit for the year attributable to equity shareholders 6,186 3,521 76%
Underlying earnings for the year(2) 5,471 3,736 46%
EBITDA(4) 12,197 8,959 36%
Net cash inflows from operating activities 8,310 6,781 23%
Earnings per share (US$):
Basic earnings per share 4.21 2.43 73%
Underlying earnings per share 3.73 2.58 45%
Interim dividend (US cents per share) 33 28 18%
Recommended final dividend 75 62 21%
Total normal dividends for year 108 90 20%
Special dividend previously paid 67 33 103%
Total dividends for the year including special dividend 175 123 42%
(1) Operating profit includes share of associates' operating profit (before share of associates' tax and
finance charges) and is before special items and remeasurements, unless otherwise stated. See note 3 to the
financial information. For definition of special items and remeasurements see note 6 to the financial
information.
(2) See note 9 to the financial information for basis of calculation of underlying earnings.
(3) Includes the Group's share of associates' turnover of $5,565 million (2005: $5,038 million). See
note 3 to the financial information.
(4) EBITDA is operating profit before special items and remeasurements, depreciation and amortisation in
subsidiaries and joint ventures and share of EBITDA of associates. EBITDA is reconciled to cash inflows
from operations and to total profit from operations and associates in note 14 to the financial information.
Tony Trahar, Chief executive, said:
"In 2006, we achieved the highest ever operating profit of $9.8 billion, an
increase of 54% over the prior year. Our strong performance was due to
increased production across the majority of our businesses and higher prices, in
particular for base metals, platinum and iron ore. The strong global growth
during the year as well as constrained supply in many metals and minerals meant
that commodity prices remained strong, though cost pressures continued to be a
major area of focus.
Strong cash generation (EBITDA) from our operations of $12.2 billion, as well as
proceeds from non-core disposals, resulted in us announcing $7.5 billion being
returned to our shareholders in the form of share buybacks and special
dividends, one of the highest levels of capital return in the industry. A
further $3 billion buyback programme will be undertaken in 2007.
During 2006, excellent progress was made in developing the Group's pipeline of
growth opportunities with a number of projects given the go-ahead, including the
$1.2 billion Barro Alto nickel deposit in Brazil and $1.6 billion of platinum
projects including the Potgietersrust expansion, the Amandelbult expansion and
the Rustenburg Paardekraal 2 shaft replacement project. There are currently $6.9
billion of projects under development and we are assessing a further $10 - $15
billion of unapproved opportunities that will provide the Group with a
profitable growth platform over the next decade.
It was an important year for Anglo American, with the Group making progress on
its strategic objectives of further focusing the business on its core mining
portfolio, simplifying its structure and enhancing returns. As a more focused,
cohesive group, further cost savings and synergies as well as technology and
knowledge sharing will be key priorities.
Global economic growth was especially rapid in the first half of 2006, with all
the major regions of the world growing rapidly over this period. Commodity
prices reacted positively to this environment, with new highs being recorded for
a number of products. In the second half, global growth began to moderate,
particularly in the US.
European markets are improving and emerging markets, in particular China and
India, are growing strongly. Continued growth in these regions in 2007 is likely
to largely offset weaker US growth and thus the decline in global growth from
the strong level achieved in 2006 should be fairly modest. This should provide a
supportive climate for commodities in the near term. The Group continues to
progress its strong organic project pipeline and drive operational excellence to
meet ongoing demand for its commodities."
Review of 2006
Financial results
Anglo American's underlying earnings for the year were a record $5.5 billion as
continued strong metal prices and improved volumes reflected the favourable
trading environment for the Group's key commodities. Operating profit of $9.8
billion was 54% higher over the prior year, with EBITDA up 36% at a record $12.2
billion. Strong contributions came from Base Metals and Platinum as well as a
significant increase in contribution from AngloGold Ashanti. Kumba's results
also showed a significant increase. Coal recorded lower underlying earnings
mainly due to a decline in export sales volumes and increased costs, while Paper
and Packaging recorded a lower contribution and Industrial Minerals a flat
contribution, owing to continuing difficult market conditions although Paper and
Packaging saw some improvement in conditions in the second half of the year.
Underlying earnings at De Beers were below the prior year, mainly reflecting
lower preference share income due to the June 2006 redemptions, and higher
minorities as a result of the Ponahalo black economic empowerment transaction
which was completed in April 2006.
Production volumes were up for platinum, copper, zinc and nickel, iron ore, coal
and industrial minerals, despite challenging operating conditions at some of the
base metals and coal mines.
The mining industry globally is facing ongoing cost pressure throughout the
supply chain and, against this background, the Group achieved cost savings of
$583 million in synergies, efficiencies and procurement.
Platinum reported record operating profit of $2,398 million (24% of Anglo
American's total operating profit), up 181%, on the back of a significantly
higher price achieved for the basket of metals sold, higher production and a
weaker average rand/dollar exchange rate.
Diamonds recorded attributable operating profit of $463 million (5% of Anglo
American's total), down 21% on 2005, due in part to lower sales by the Diamond
Trading Company.
Base Metals generated a record operating profit of $3,876 million (39% of Anglo
American's total), up 131%, due to increased copper, zinc, lead and ferroniobium
production and significantly higher metals prices.
Ferrous Metals and Industries' operating profit declined 7% to $1,360 million
(14% of Anglo American's total), mainly as a result of the sale of non-core
businesses as well as lower vanadium and manganese prices, partially offset by
higher iron ore prices.
Coal recorded operating profit of $864 million (9% of Anglo American's total),
15% lower, due mainly to lower export prices and export sales volumes.
Industrial Minerals' operating profit was 9% lower at $336 million (3% of Anglo
American's total), a robust performance in the face of challenging market
conditions, with lower volumes and weaker margins in some businesses exacerbated
by high energy costs for much of the year.
Gold achieved a 41% increase in operating profit of $467 million (5% of Anglo
American's total), on the back of a stronger gold price which was 31% higher
than the average price received in 2005.
Paper and Packaging reported a lower operating profit of $477 million (5% of
Anglo American's total), a decrease of 4%, after a stronger second half partly
offset the impact of a poor first six months.
Capital structure and increased return to shareholders
The Group's net debt position has reduced by $1.7 billion since the prior year
end. At 31 December net debt amounted to $3.3 billion. This underlines the
strong operating cash flows as well as proceeds from disposals, deconsolidation
of AngloGold Ashanti debt and the conversion of $1.1 billion of the Group's
convertible debt. The $2 billion share buyback, which commenced in March 2006,
was completed in August 2006. The additional $4 billion share buyback announced
at the interim commenced in September 2006, with around $3.2 billion of shares
having been repurchased as at 20 February 2007.
Dividends
In line with the Group's progressive dividend policy, the final dividend has
been raised 21% to 75 cents per share, to be paid on 3 May 2007 subject to
shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting to be held on 17 April 2007.
Total dividends for the year (including the interim special dividend of 67 cents
per share), amount to 175 cents per share (2005:123 cents per share).
Significant progress on strategic objectives
During 2006, significant progress was made in terms of restructuring the
portfolio. In April, $1 billion worth of AngloGold Ashanti shares was sold,
reducing Anglo American's shareholding from 51% to 42%. The decision to reduce
and ultimately exit the Group's gold holding relates to the higher relative
valuations attributable to pure-play gold companies, rather than as part of a
diversified mining group. Anglo American continues to explore all available
options to exit AngloGold Ashanti in an orderly manner.
Regarding Mondi, plans for a full demerger are progressing. Approval in
principle has been received from the regulatory authorities in South Africa for
a Dual Listed Company Structure with primary listings in Johannesburg and
London. Arrangements are being finalised to enable a smooth and efficient
transition to a fully independent company. The senior management team is in
place and a new board of directors is being established. The listing is targeted
for mid 2007.
Good progress was made in restructuring the Ferrous Metals and Industries
business. In July 2006 the majority of the Group's stake in Highveld Steel was
sold, with Russia's Evraz group and Credit Suisse each acquiring 24.9% of
Highveld's share capital for an aggregate consideration of $412 million. Evraz
has an option to increase its stake in Highveld, once regulatory approvals are
received, entitling Evraz to purchase the remaining 29.2% shareholding. On
implementation of the option arrangement, the aggregate amount that will have
been received by Anglo American for its 79% interest in Highveld will be $678
million.
In November, the restructuring of Kumba was completed, with the listings on the
Johannesburg Stock Exchange of Kumba Iron Ore as a pure play iron ore company,
in which Anglo American holds 64%, and Exxaro, which became South Africa's
largest black economic empowered natural resources company.
The unbundling of the Tongaat-Hulett Group's aluminium business to shareholders
and simultaneous introduction of broad based black economic empowerment in both
Tongaat-Hulett and Hulamin will occur during the second quarter of 2007. This
will reduce Anglo American's interests in Tongaat-Hulett to 38% and in Hulamin
to 39%.
Tarmac's strategic review was completed in early 2006 and clearly defines the
scope of its business as aggregates, together with three routes to market
(asphalt, concrete and concrete products), and integration of cement where
appropriate. The disposals announced in February 2006 have been largely
completed and good progress is being made on delivering structural operational
improvements. Tarmac is aiming to make a $50 million profit improvement on a
like-for-like basis over the next three years.
Strong project pipeline driving growth
During 2006, excellent progress was made in developing the Group's pipeline of
growth opportunities across numerous territories. Anglo American currently has
$6.9 billion of approved projects under development.
Anglo Platinum expects refined platinum production to be between 2.8 and 2.9
million ounces in 2007 in line with its long term growth target of 5% per annum.
During 2006 the company approved several major projects, including the $692
million Potgietersrust expansion, the $224 million Amandelbult expansion and the
$316 million Paardekraal 2 shaft replacement project. These new projects will
contribute 456,000 platinum ounces to Anglo Platinum's production.
The Townlands Ore Replacement Project at a capital cost of $139 million was
approved in February 2007. This will replace 70,000 ounces of refined platinum
per annum by 2014 with production from new Merensky and UG2 areas at the
Rustenburg Townlands Shaft.
Anglo Coal has an extensive range of growth options in the coal industry and is
currently developing four major projects across three operating regions. In
Australia, work is continuing on the $835 million Dawson project, which is
planned to reach full production in 2007, producing an additional 12.7 million
tonnes per annum for export markets. Construction has also begun on the $516
million Lake Lindsay greenfield project at the German Creek mine which will
produce 3.7 million tonnes of metallurgical coal and 0.3 million tonnes of
thermal coal annually by 2008, most of it for the Pacific Rim markets. In South
Africa, development of the Mafube mine has started following the granting of
prospecting rights, while the Isibonelo project, which supplies 5 million tonnes
to Sasol per annum, reached full production in 2006. In Colombia, the first
phase of the expansion to 28 million tonnes per annum at the Cerrejon mine
reached completion and a second expansion to 32 million tonnes per annum is
already under way.
Base Metals is currently assessing a number of major projects, which will drive
significant production growth well into the next decade. In December, the
go-ahead was given for the $1.2 billion Barro Alto project in Brazil which will
produce an average of 36,000 tonnes of nickel per year in the form of
ferronickel over a minimum 26 year mine life. Construction of the Barro Alto
facilities is scheduled to begin in 2007, with production commencing in 2010 and
ramping up to full capacity during 2011. In addition, work is continuing on
feasibility and de-bottlenecking studies at the two major Chilean copper
operations, Los Bronces and Collahuasi, and a decision to proceed with these
expansions is expected in 2007.
Kumba Iron Ore is well advanced on the $754 million Sishen expansion project in
South Africa's Northern Cape, with first output due in 2007 and full ramp-up to
13 million tonnes per annum targeted for 2009. This will take the company to 45
million tonnes per annum of iron ore production, of which 36 million tonnes per
annum will be exported. Further brownfield and greenfield projects offer the
potential to increase Kumba Iron Ore's annual production to over 70 million
tonnes per annum by 2015. Other iron ore growth opportunities are being pursued.
Progress continues on De Beers' Canadian projects at Snap Lake and Victor.
Despite project costs rising, owing to higher energy costs, technological
challenges and the impact of the early closure of the winter road to the sites,
both developments remain on track to open in the final quarters of 2007 and
2008, respectively. In 2006, De Beers also approved two projects in South
Africa: the re-opening of the dormant Voorspoed mine and the South African Sea
Areas marine mining project for a total capital expenditure of $284 million.
Outlook
Global economic growth was especially rapid in the first half of 2006, with all
the major regions of the world growing rapidly over this period. Commodity
prices reacted positively to this environment, with new highs being recorded for
a number of products. In the second half, global growth began to moderate,
particularly in the US.
European markets are improving and emerging markets, in particular China and
India, are growing strongly. Continued growth in these regions in 2007 is likely
to largely offset weaker US growth and thus the decline in global growth from
the strong level achieved in 2006 should be fairly modest. This should provide a
supportive climate for commodities in the near term. The Group continues to
progress its strong organic project pipeline and drive operational excellence to
meet ongoing demand for its commodities.
For further information:
Investor enquiries
Nick von Schirnding
Tel: +44 207 968 8540
Charles Gordon
Tel: +44 207 968 8933
Anne Dunn
Tel: +27 11 638 4730
Media enquiries
Kate Aindow
Tel: +44 207 968 8619
Daniel Ngwepe
Tel: +27 11 638 2267
Fiona Wrench
Tel : +27 11 638
Notes to editors:
Anglo American plc is one of the world's largest mining and natural resource
groups. With its subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, it is a global
leader in platinum group metals, gold and diamonds, with significant interests
in coal, base and ferrous metals, industrial minerals and paper and packaging.
The group is geographically diverse, with operations in Africa, Europe, South
and North America, Australia and Asia. (www.angloamerican.co.uk)
Webcast of presentation:
A live webcast of the annual results presentation starting at 10.00am UK time on
21 February can be accessed through the Anglo American website at
www.angloamerican.co.uk.
Pictures:
High resolution images can be downloaded by the media at www.vismedia.co.uk
Note: Throughout this press release '$' denotes United States dollars and '
cents' refers to United States cents; operating profit includes associates'
operating profit and is before special items and remeasurements unless otherwise
stated; special items and remeasurements are defined in note 6 and underlying
earnings are calculated as set out in note 9 to the financial information.
EBITDA is operating profit before special items and remeasurements, depreciation
and amortisation in subsidiaries and joint ventures and share of EBITDA of
associates. EBITDA is reconciled to cash inflows from operations and to total
profit from operations and associates in note 14 to the financial information.
Financial review of Group results
Underlying earnings per share for the year increased to $3.73 per share, an
increase of 45% compared with 2005. Underlying earnings totalled $5,471 million,
with strong contributions from Base Metals and Platinum as well as a significant
increase in contribution from AngloGold Ashanti. Coal recorded lower underlying
earnings mainly due to a decline in export sales volumes and increased costs,
while Paper and Packaging recorded a lower contribution and Industrial Minerals
a flat contribution, owing to continuing difficult market conditions, although
Paper and Packaging saw some improvement in overall market conditions in the
second half of the year. Underlying earnings at De Beers were below the prior
year, principally reflecting lower sales by the Diamond Trading Company and
increased exploration and development cost, as well as lower preference share
income arising from the June 2006 redemptions, and higher minorities as a result
of the Ponahalo black economic empowerment transaction which was completed in
April 2006. Kumba's results showed a significant increase over the prior year;
however, Ferrous Metals as a whole recorded a lower contribution chiefly owing
to lower manganese and vanadium prices, the impact of the increased minorities
as a result of the Highveld part disposal in July, as well as the full year
impact of the disposal in mid-2005 of Boart Longyear and Samancor Chrome.
Underlying earnings Year ended Year ended
$ million 31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Profit for the financial year attributable to equity shareholders 6,186 3,521
Operating special items including associates 562 323
Operating remeasurements including associates 429 317
Net profit on disposals including associates (1,367) (185)
Financing special item 4 -
Financing remeasurements including associates:
Fair value loss on convertible option 18 32
Exchange gain on De Beers' preference shares (40) (72)
Unrealised gains and losses on non-hedge derivatives (8) (2)
Tax on special items and remeasurements including associates (124) (15)
Related minority interests on special items and remeasurements (189) (183)
including associates
Underlying earnings 5,471 3,736
Underlying earnings per share ($) 3.73 2.58
Profit for the year after special items and remeasurements increased by 76% to
$6,186 million compared with $3,521 million in the prior year. This increase
relates mainly to strong operational results as discussed above. There was a
significant increase in net profits on disposal which, including associates, was
$1,182 million higher than 2005, mainly as a result of the Group's disposal of
19.7 million ordinary shares in AngloGold Ashanti and the Group's
non-participation in the issue of ordinary shares by AngloGold Ashanti ($909
million net profit on disposal) as well as the profit of $301 million on partial
disposal of Highveld. This was largely offset by the $52 million loss on partial
disposal of Kumba's non-iron ore assets as well as operating special items and
remeasurements losses of $991 million, including the impairment and
restructuring of certain Tarmac assets ($278 million), impairment and closure
costs relating to the Dartbrook coal mine in Australia ($125 million),
impairment mainly of certain downstream converting Packaging assets and certain
Business Paper assets at Paper and Packaging ($104 million) and unrealised
losses on non-hedge derivatives ($429 million), recorded principally at
AngloGold Ashanti.
The Group's results are influenced by a variety of currencies owing to the
geographic diversity of the Group. The South African rand on average weakened
slightly against the US dollar compared with the prior year, with an average
exchange rate of R6.77 compared with R6.37 in 2005. Currency movements
positively impacted underlying earnings by $129 million. Operating results
benefited from weaker average rates for the rand and Australian dollar, although
these were offset by the stronger Chilean peso and Brazilian real. There was a
significant beneficial effect on underlying earnings from increased prices
amounting to $3,581 million, particularly in respect of copper and platinum
group metals.
Summary income statement Year ended Year ended
$ million 31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Operating profit before special items and remeasurements 8,742 5,344
Operating special items (524) (186)
Operating remeasurements (344) (301)
Operating profit from subsidiaries and joint ventures 7,874 4,857
Net profit on disposals 1,168 87
Share of net income from associates (1) 685 657
Total profit from operations and associates 9,727 5,601
Net finance costs before special items and remeasurements (165) (428)
Financing special items and remeasurements - 35
Profit before tax 9,562 5,208
Income tax expense (2,640) (1,275)
Profit for the financial year 6,922 3,933
Minority interests (736) (412)
Profit for the financial year attributable to equity shareholders 6,186 3,521
Basic earnings per share ($) 4.21 2.43
Group operating profit including associates before special items and 9,832 6,376
remeasurements
(1) Operating profit from associates before special items and 1,090 1,032
remeasurements
Operating special items and remeasurements (2) (123) (153)
Net profit on disposals (2) 199 98
Financing remeasurements (2) 26 7
Net finance costs (before remeasurements) (101) (51)
Income tax expense (after special items and remeasurements) (368) (274)
Underlying minority interest (after special items and (38) (2)
remeasurements)
Share of net income from associates 685 657
(2) See note 3 to the financial information.
Special items and remeasurement charges
31 December 2006 31 December 2005
Excluding Excluding
associates Associates Total associates Associates Total
$ million
Operating special (524) (38) (562) (186) (137) (323)
items
Operating (344) (85) (429) (301) (16) (317)
remeasurements
Operating special
items and
remeasurements (868) (123) (991) (487) (153) (640)
Operating special items and remeasurements, including associates, amounted to
$991 million, with $562 million operating special charges in respect of
impairments, restructurings and mine and operation closures, including a
$278 million combined impairment and restructuring charge relating to certain
non-core assets to be sold and other assets to be restructured at Industrial
Minerals following the conclusion of the strategic review, an impairment and
related closure costs of $125 million at AngloCoal Australia's Dartbrook mine,
and a $104 million impairment at Paper and Packaging mainly of certain
downstream converting Packaging assets.
Operating remeasurements, including associates, of $429 million principally
relates to unrealised losses on non-hedge commodity derivatives at AngloGold
Ashanti. The loss in 2006 relates to the revaluation of non-hedge derivatives
resulting from changes in the prevailing spot gold price, exchange rates and
interest rates compared with the equivalent period in 2005.
Net profit on sale of operations, including associates, amounted to $1,367
million. This included the profit on sale of 19.7 million ordinary shares in
AngloGold Ashanti, which resulted in $737 million profit on disposal as well as
$172 million profit on the deemed disposal of AngloGold Ashanti arising from the
non-participation in the issue of ordinary shares by AngloGold Ashanti. A gain
of $301 million also arose on the part disposal of Highveld, offset by a loss of
$52 million on the part disposal of Kumba's non-iron ore assets. The Group also
realised a $103 million profit on the sale of an indirect 26% equity interest in
De Beers Consolidated Mines Limited to Ponahalo Holdings (Proprietary) Limited.
Financing remeasurements, including associates, are made up of a $18 million
fair value loss on the AngloGold Ashanti convertible bond option, unrealised net
gains of $8 million on non-hedge derivatives and a $40 million foreign exchange
gain on De Beers dollar preference shares held by a rand denominated entity.
In line with IFRIC guidance, the option component of the AngloGold Ashanti
convertible bond is fair valued at each reporting period and held as a
liability. Changes in fair value of the liability are taken to the income
statement.
The US dollar preference shares held by De Beers (a rand functional currency
entity) are classified as 'financial asset investments' and are retranslated at
each period end. The resulting rand:US dollar foreign exchange gains and losses
are reported through the income statement as a remeasurement charge.
Net finance costs
Net finance costs, excluding special items and remeasurements of nil (2005: gain
of $35 million), decreased from $428 million in 2005 to $165 million. The
decrease reflects lower interest costs due to the reduction in net debt.
Taxation
31 December 2006 31 December 2005
$ million Before special Associates' Including Before special Associates' tax Including
items and tax and associates items and and minority associates
remeasurements minority remeasurements interests
interests
Profit before tax 9,159 407 9,566 5,612 285 5,897
Tax (2,763) (369) (3,132) (1,283) (281) (1,564)
Profit for 6,396 38 6,434 4,329 4 4,333
financial
period
Effective tax 32.7 26.5
rate
including
associates %
IAS 1 Presentation of financial statements requires income from associates to be
presented net of tax on the face of the income statement. Associates' tax is
therefore not included within the Group's total tax charge on the face of the
income statement. Associates' tax before special items and remeasurements
included within 'Share of net income from associates' for the year ended 31
December 2006 was $369 million (2005: $281 million).
The effective rate of taxation before special items and remeasurements including
share of associates' tax before special items and remeasurements was 32.7%. This
was an increase from the effective rate on the same basis of 26.5% in the year
ended 31 December 2005. The December 2005 tax rate benefited from the one-off
impact of a reduction in the statutory tax rates in South Africa and Ghana.
Without this one-off benefit the effective tax rate for the prior year would
have been 29.7%. The December 2006 tax rate reflects the relative impact of the
statutory tax rates, on a fully distributed basis where appropriate, of the
countries in which the Group's operations are based. In future periods it is
expected that the effective tax rate, including associates' tax, will remain at
or above the UK statutory tax rate of 30%.
Balance sheet
Equity attributable to equity shareholders of the Company was $24,271 million
compared with $23,621 million as at 31 December 2005.
During the year, the Group announced a share buyback programme totalling $6
billion. By the end of 2006, $3.9 billion of this programme had been completed,
with the programme due to complete fully in the first half of 2007. A further
$3 billion share buyback has been announced for 2007.
Net debt, excluding hedges but including balances that have been reclassified as
held for sale ($80 million) was $3,324 million, a decrease of $1,669 million
from 31 December 2005. The reduction was principally due to reduction of debt
from cash flows from operations and disposals, deconsolidation of AngloGold
Ashanti debt and conversion of $1.1 billion of the Group's convertible debt,
although this was partially offset by $3.9 billion of share buyback and $1.5
billion special dividend as at 31 December 2006.
Net debt at 31 December 2006 comprised $6,304 million of debt, offset by $2,980
million of cash, cash equivalents and current financial asset investments. Net
debt to total capital(1) as at 31 December 2006 was 12.9%, compared with 17.0%
at 31 December 2005.
Cash flow
Net cash inflows from operating activities was $8,310 million compared with
$6,781 million in 2005. EBITDA was $12,197 million, a substantial increase of
36% from $8,959 million in 2005. Depreciation and amortisation decreased by $405
million to $2,036 million.
Acquisition expenditure accounted for an outflow of $344 million compared with
$530 million in 2005. This included $76 million, net of cash acquired, in
respect of the Group's investment in AltaSteel (Ferrous Metals and Industries)
and $65 million in respect of the Group's investment in Akrosil and Stambolijski
(Paper and Packaging).
Proceeds from disposals totalled $1,642 million, with net proceeds on the sale
of 19.7 million ordinary shares of AngloGold Ashanti of $839 million and net
proceeds of $412 million received on disposal of 49.8% of Anglo American's
shareholding in Highveld Steel.
Repayment of loans and capital from associates amounted to $394 million and is
attributable to capital redemptions by De Beers, comprising the redemption of
$175 million of preference shares and a further $219 million in respect of a
share premium redemption following the Ponahalo black economic empowerment
transaction. Purchases of tangible assets amounted to $3,686 million, an
increase of $380 million. Increased capital expenditure by Platinum, Coal,
Ferrous Metals and Industries, Industrial Minerals and Base Metals was partially
offset by a reduction in capital expenditure at Paper and Packaging, as well as
the impact of including AngloGold Ashanti's capital expenditure up to 20 April
2006, after which it is accounted for as an associate.
Dividends
A final dividend of 75 US cents per share to be paid on 3 May 2007 has been
recommended.
Analysis of dividends
US cents per share 2006 2005
Interim dividend (US cents per share) 33 28
Recommended final dividend 75 62
Normal dividend for year 108 90
Special dividend previously paid 67 33
Total dividends 175 123
(1) Net debt to total capital is calculated as net debt divided by total capital
less investments in associates. Total capital is net assets excluding net debt.
Operations review
In the operations review on the following pages, operating profit includes
associates' operating profit and is before special items and remeasurements
unless otherwise stated. Capital expenditure relates to cash expenditure on
fixed assets.
PLATINUM
$ million Year ended Year ended
31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Operating profit 2,398 854
EBITDA 2,845 1,282
Net operating assets 7,078 7,018
Capital expenditure 923 616
Share of Group operating profit 24% 13%
Share of Group net operating assets 25% 20%
Anglo Platinum's operating profit reached a record $2,398 million, increasing
181% on 2005's operating profit of $854 million. This was achieved on the back
of a significantly higher price achieved for the basket of metals sold,
increased production and a weaker average rand/US dollar exchange rate.
Markets
The average dollar price realised for the basket of metals sold equated to
$2,030 per platinum ounce, 46% higher than in 2005, with firmer platinum,
rhodium and nickel prices making the largest contribution to the increase. The
average realised price for platinum of $1,140 per ounce was $246 higher than in
2005, while nickel averaged $10.74 per pound against $6.77 in 2005. The price
achieved for rhodium averaged $3,542 per ounce, an increase of $1,576 per ounce
over 2005, and includes the effect of existing long term contractual
arrangements with some customers entered into to support and develop the rhodium
market.
Technological development continues to drive industrial demand for platinum and
ongoing research into new applications will create further growth in this
sector. With the rapid spread of exhaust emissions legislation, over 91% of new
vehicles sold in the world now have autocatalysts fitted. The intensifying
stringency of emissions legislation will drive growth in PGM demand for
autocatalysts as new legislation is applied to trucks and off road vehicles in
the USA. The increasing popularity of diesel-powered vehicles in Europe
continues and this has also intensified the demand for platinum, as
diesel-powered cars can only use autocatalysts that are predominantly
platinum-based.
Operating performance
Refined platinum production for the year rose by 15% to 2,816,500 ounces,
primarily due to increased production at mining operations and the release of
metal from pipeline stocks, including the processing of concentrate built up at
the Polokwane Smelter in 2005. Platinum production from mining operations,
expressed in equivalent refined ounces (metal contained in concentrate net of
smelting and refining losses), increased by 5% to 2,638,600 ounces. The increase
was mainly attributable to improved production volumes at the Amandelbult,
Kroondal, Modikwa, Bafokeng-Rasimone and Rustenburg operations as well as new
output from the Marikana and Mototolo operations. However, this was partly
offset by lower output from Potgietersrust and the Western Limb Tailings
Retreatment plant.
The cash operating cost per equivalent refined platinum ounce in rand terms
increased by 10.7%. Once-off additional ground support work during 2006 at
Union, equipping and development programmes to establish a sustainable base for
future production at Amandelbult and Rustenburg, cost increases in diesel,
steel, tyres and labour and the effect of lower grades as a consequence of a
higher percentage of UG2 ore mined, were the principal reasons for the above
inflation unit cost increase.
Projects
Anglo Platinum remains confident of the robustness of demand for platinum and is
continuing with its expansion programme and expects to meet its stated average
compound growth target of 5% per annum by exploiting its own reserves through
direct investment in projects as well as with joint venture partners. This
growth profile requires projects that will create incremental new production as
well as maintain existing production levels due to reserve depletion from
current mining activities.
The implementation of Anglo Platinum's extensive suite of mining and processing
projects to expand and maintain production continues on schedule. Projects that
have increased production include Modikwa, Kroondal and for the first time in
2006, the Marikana and Mototolo ventures which have both added equivalent
refined platinum ounces of 12,800 for 2006. Marikana, approved in 2005, will
produce 74,000 refined platinum ounces a year by 2009. Mototolo is set to reach
steady state production by the end of 2007, producing refined platinum
production of 130,000 ounces per annum at steady state.
In 2006 the company approved capital expenditure totalling $1.6 billion, which
included the Potgietersrust North expansion project. Work on this project, which
aims to mill an additional 600,000 tonnes of ore per month, producing an
additional 230,000 refined platinum ounces per annum from 2009, has commenced.
Projects that contribute towards maintaining production levels include the
Amandelbult 1 shaft optimisation project, which was successfully completed
during the year with the 75,000 tonnes per month UG2 concentrator being fully
commissioned and running at capacity. This concentrator processes UG2 ore as
Merensky production declines due to the depletion of Merensky ore reserves.
The Amandelbult East Upper UG2 project, which was approved in 2006, will
conventionally mine the UG2 reef, using existing mining infrastructure
previously employed to extract Merensky reef, at the vertical number 2 shaft and
at three decline shafts. The 75,000 tpm UG2 concentrator will be expanded to
210,000 tpm and by 2012 the project will contribute an additional 106,000 ounces
of refined platinum per annum.
The Rustenburg Paardekraal 2 shaft replacement project will access deeper
Merensky reserves at a rate of 100,000 tpm. The project is expected to produce
120,000 ounces of refined platinum per annum by 2015, replacing decreasing
production as a result of reserve depletion.
The Townlands Ore Replacement project at a capital cost of $139 million was
approved in February 2007 and will replace 70,000 ounces of refined platinum per
annum by 2014 with production from new Merensky and UG2 areas at the Rustenburg
Townlands Shaft.
In December, Anglo Platinum concluded a black economic empowerment transaction
with the Bakgatla-Ba-Kgafela traditional community, under which the community
acquired a 15% interest in Anglo Platinum's Union Section mining and
concentrating business as well as interests in the prospecting rights of certain
properties in the vicinity of Union Section.
Outlook
The demand for newly-mined platinum continues to grow from the autocatalyst and
industrial sectors offsetting the decline in demand from the jewellery sector.
Autocatalyst demand is expected to continue growing in response to growth in the
sales of diesel vehicles worldwide coupled with the advances in emission
legislation requiring the fitment of catalyst systems and particulate filters
containing platinum. The application of platinum in a wide variety of uses in
industry remains robust. In the jewellery sector, the high price of platinum,
but more importantly the volatility in the price, is limiting the levels of
stock held within the trade and hence demand is down. Additional development
projects to support the "Platinum" brand and the industry are being implemented
in China, Japan and the USA. These initiatives are expected to sustain interest
and assist in restoring demand even at current price levels.
The recovery of palladium demand in the industrial market continues particularly
in the autocatalyst and electronics sectors. Substitution of palladium for
platinum in gasoline engine emission control catalysts is a continuing feature.
The demand for palladium in the Chinese jewellery trade reduced from the
exceptional peak last year as the manufacturing and retail pipelines were
established. Sustained demand will be dependent on creating consumer desire for
the product. The development of a differentiating image for palladium is in its
infancy, but being pursued. The market for palladium is also being supported by
investor interest in the metal which absorbs additional supply from Russian
stocks.
The markets for rhodium and ruthenium are supported by strong industrial demand
and are expected to be buoyant in the medium term.
Refined platinum production for 2007 is expected to be between 2.8 million and
2.9 million ounces. While production and sales volumes will increase in 2007,
the most significant variable affecting earnings will be metal prices and the
rand/US dollar exchange rate.
DIAMONDS
$ million Year ended Year ended
31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Share of associate's operating profit 463 583
EBITDA 541 655
Group's share of De Beers' net assets (1) 2,062 2,056
Share of Group operating profit 5% 9%
(1) De Beers is an independently managed associate of the Group. The Group's
share of De Beers' net assets is disclosed.
The Group's share of operating profit from De Beers declined by 21% to $463
million from the 2005 figure of $583 million. This was largely attributable to
lower sales by the Diamond Trading Company (DTC), the marketing arm of De Beers,
increased exploration and development costs, reduced earnings in the diamond
account, the impact of increased finance charges, and the dilution in earnings
as a consequence of the sale of 26% of De Beers Consolidated Mines to a black
economic empowerment consortium.
Markets
Solid consumer demand for diamond jewellery continued in 2006, with the US, and
particularly China and India, reporting strong sales growth. Sales by the DTC
were $6.2 billion, slightly below the previous year (2005: $6.5 billion), though
still the second-highest on record. The decline reflected the reduced supply
available to the DTC and the continuing challenging environment in the wholesale
market for rough diamonds, where a lack of liquidity, margin pressure and
increasing financing costs impacted pipeline demand.
DTC marketing initiatives continue to effectively drive demand for diamond
jewellery. Preliminary reports point to global retail sales for 2006 rising by
about 4%-5%, with India and China achieving double-digit growth. DTC marketing
programmes such as 'Journey Diamond Jewellery' and 'Trilogy' were strong growth
drivers in 2006. Independently managed De Beers Diamond Jewellers (DBDJ), the De
Beers retail joint venture with Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH), had an
excellent year, with an encouraging performance in the United States, which
accounts for around 50% of world jewellery sales by value. In 2007 DBDJ will
introduce its first wristwatch collection and increase its presence in the US,
the Middle East, Japan, Hong Kong and South Korea.
Operating performance
In 2006 the De Beers group achieved its highest ever production of 51 million
carats (2005: 49 million carats). This was attributable mainly to Debswana
raising output in Botswana from 31.9 million carats to 34.3 million carats. In
Namibia, Namdeb lifted production by 18% to just over 2 million carats.
Production from the South African operations totalled 14.6 million carats.
Element Six, De Beers industrial diamond business, continues to achieve
sustained growth, recording a satisfactory profit for the year.
In Canada, De Beers is on target to start production at Snap Lake in the
Northwest Territories in October, 2007, while the Victor mine in Ontario is
scheduled to come on stream in the last quarter of 2008. In June 2006 De Beers
announced that it had been granted a right to mine for diamonds at the
long-closed Voorspoed mine in South Africa's Free State province. As part of its
$145 million South African Sea Areas marine mining project, a mining vessel, now
undergoing commissioning, will commence operations off the west coast of South
Africa in the third quarter of 2007. When all of these operations are in full
production they will contribute 3.3 million carats, valued at $700 million, to
De Beers' production capacity.
In 2006 De Beers positioned itself well to take advantage of exploration
opportunities. The company has been granted three new concessions in Angola,
prospecting licences have been granted in Botswana around the Jwaneng and Orapa
areas, while De Beers is involved in a number of joint ventures to access
promising ground in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In Canada, De Beers has
sold its 42% stake in the Fort a la Corne project in Saskatchewan. In September
2006 De Beers and Alrosa, the leading Russian diamond mining company, signed a
Memorandum of Understanding which should lead to joint diamond prospecting and
exploration activities in Russia.
A groundbreaking empowerment transaction was concluded in April 2006, resulting
in the sale of 26% of De Beers Consolidated Mines, the South African mining arm
of De Beers, to a black economic empowerment consortium.
In May 2006 the Government of Botswana and De Beers signed the renewal of the
mining licence for Jwaneng, the world's most valuable diamond mine. The licence
will run for 25 years (effective from 1 August 2004), while the currently held
licences for the Orapa, Lethlakane and Damtshaa mines were also extended to
2029. The agreement also covered the sale of diamond production from Debswana
(held 50:50 by the Government of Botswana and De Beers) to the DTC for a further
five years, and the establishment of Diamond Trading Company Botswana (also
equally owned by the two parties) to sort and value all Debswana's diamond
production.
On 30 January 2007, the Government of Namibia and De Beers announced the
extension of the DTC sales contract for a further eight years (effective 1
January 2006), and the establishment of Namibia Diamond Trading Company to sort,
value and market Namibia's diamond output.
Following the announcement in 2004 that De Beers had reached a settlement with
the US Department of Justice, De Beers announced a provisional agreement in
March 2006 to settle and consolidate all of the remaining class actions against
De Beers for a total sum of $295 million. Proceedings to obtain final judicial
approval of the settlement of the class actions are continuing.
On 31 January 2007 the European Commission formally announced that it had
decided to reject all of the outstanding complaints against De Beers and the DTC
in respect of the DTC Sales and Marketing policy, and the Russian Trade
agreement.
Outlook
The outlook for further growth in retail diamond jewellery sales remains
positive, with India and China likely to be the leading growth markets, and the
US continuing its five year growth trend. While DTC sales are likely to be
constrained by availability in 2007, due to the reduction in Russian purchases
as agreed with the European Commission, De Beers will benefit from bringing new
production on stream towards the end of the third quarter of 2007. De Beers will
focus on implementing its new vision of 'maximising the value of its leadership
position'. This includes, in addition to new production, reviewing assets that
do not fit the De Beers portfolio criteria, focusing exploration on the most
prospective areas, continuing to improve cost efficiency and investing in DBDJ
and the 'Forevermark' marketing programmes.
BASE METALS
$ million Year ended Year ended
31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Operating profit 3,876 1,678
Copper 3,019 1,381
Nickel, Niobium, Mineral Sands 405 249
Zinc 516 102
Other (64) (54)
EBITDA 4,214 1,990
Net operating assets 4,268 4,785
Capital expenditure 298 271
Share of Group operating profit 39% 26%
Share of Group net operating assets 15% 13%
Anglo Base Metals generated a record operating profit of $3,876 million (2005:
$1,678 million) on the back of increased copper, zinc, lead and ferroniobium
production and significantly higher metal prices, partially offset by
significant rises in the costs of energy and most key consumables. Although
copper and zinc treatment and refining charges eased, increases in metal price
linked smelter deductions and price participation saw a significant increase in
this component of costs. The strength of the Chilean and Brazilian currencies
against the dollar also adversely impacted operating profits.
Markets
Average LME prices (c/lb) 2006 2005
Copper 305 167
Nickel 1,095 668
Zinc 148 63
Lead 58 44
With global GDP growth remaining strong, average base metal prices moved
significantly upwards in 2006. Although copper demand was slightly weaker than
expected (with destocking by the Chinese and other manufacturers) and
price-induced substitution (particularly in respect of copper and nickel) was
also a feature, aggregate demand growth for base metals was largely as expected
at 5%-6%. The primary drivers of the dramatic increase in prices were tight
metal inventories (in turn, a reflection of weak mine supply growth arising from
a lack of investment in new capacity and further supply side disruptions,
particularly in the case of copper) and the significant and rapid inflow of
speculative and investor funds into commodities markets.
Operating performance
Copper Division 2006 2005
Operating profit ($m) 3,019 1,381
Attributable production (tonnes) 643,800 634,600
Los Bronces copper mine implemented measures to overcome the lower throughput
experienced in the first half arising from unexpectedly hard ore encountered in
the Donoso Este area. Production, which included a record amount of cathode, was
marginally lower at 226,000 tonnes (2005: 227,300 tonnes). El Soldado saw
increasing mining flexibility and grade as the year progressed and delivered
68,700 tonnes (2005: 66,500 tonnes). Mantoverde suffered some delays in dump
construction early in the year and output decreased by 3% to 60,300 tonnes.
Mantos Blancos reduced the dump leach area under irrigation but this was more
than offset by improved grades and recoveries in both the vat leach and sulphide
ore circuits, resulting in a 5% rise in production to 91,700 tonnes.
Notwithstanding intermittent production interruptions arising from the Rosario
crushing and conveying system and SAG Mill No. 3, Collahuasi lifted output to
440,000 tonnes (2005: 427,100 tonnes) largely as a result of a 13% improvement
in sulphide mill throughput. Molybdenum production rose materially to 3,400
tonnes (2005: 300 tonnes) in the first full year of molybdenum plant production.
Chagres increased production by 26% to 173,400 tonnes following the completion
of the expansion project at the end of 2005.
The $80 million El Soldado pit extension project was completed on time and under
budget. The Los Bronces feasibility study, which contemplates increasing copper
production by 75% at a cost of approximately $1.2 billion, will be completed in
mid-2007, while the Quellaveco revised feasibility study, examining a project
with production of copper of around 200,000 tonnes per annum at a capital cost
of approximately $1.2 billion, will be complete in 2008. Evaluation of the
progressive de-bottlenecking project at Collahuasi will be undertaken this year.
The new Chilean mining tax was paid with effect from January 2006.
Nickel, Niobium and Mineral Sands Divisions 2006 2005
Operating profit ($m) 405 249
Attributable nickel production (tonnes) 26,400 26,500
Production of 16,600 tonnes at Loma de Niquel was marginally down for the year.
Codemin output rose to 9,800 tonnes (2005: 9,600 tonnes), but sales volumes were
11% higher owing to the timing of shipments. In the first full year of
production following the completion of the scalping project, niobium output
increased a further 18% to a record 4,700 tonnes. Namakwa Sands' zircon and
rutile production was very similar to 2005 at 128,400 tonnes and 28,200 tonnes
respectively, while slag tonnage, which had been at similar levels until a major
furnace burn-out occurred in August, was 19% lower at 133,900 tonnes.
In December the $1.2 billion Barro Alto project, which will see the construction
of a 36,000 tonnes per annum ferronickel operation in Brazil, was approved.
First production is scheduled for 2010.
Zinc Division 2006 2005
Operating profit ($m) 516 102
Attributable zinc production (tonnes) 334,700 324,200
Attributable lead production (tonnes) 71,400 63,000
Skorpion operated at design capacity until August when impurities in the
electrowinning circuit caused a hydrogen fire, necessitating a 20 day shutdown.
Although operations were again running at design capacity by December,
production for the year eased to 129,900 tonnes (2005: 132,800 tonnes).
Increased production from secondary mining (released by the backfill programme),
improved grades (arising from the start-up of mining in the Bog Zone) and
improved mill throughput and recoveries resulted in Lisheen producing 170,700
tonnes of zinc and 23,100 tonnes of lead (2005: 159,300 tonnes and 20,800
tonnes, respectively).
At Black Mountain the commissioning at the Deeps shaft and the phased
redeployment from the Broken Hill and Swartberg orebodies to, and the opening up
of, the Deeps orebody has led to a gradual improvement in grade. This, together
with a modest improvement in mill throughput, saw an increase of 6% in zinc
production and 14% in lead output to 34,100 tonnes and 48,300 tonnes,
respectively.
In January 2007 it was announced that black economic empowerment company Exxaro
Resources Limited had exercised an option under which it had, subject to the
satisfaction of conditions precedent and contractual price adjustments, agreed
to acquire Namakwa Sands (for R2.0 billion) and 26% of each of Black Mountain
and Gamsberg (for a combined figure of R180 million).
Anglo Base Metals continues to focus on operational excellence and delivering on
the value-additive growth options that it is creating. Increases in zinc and
ferroniobium production are forecast in 2007 while nickel output should be
maintained. Copper production, excluding Collahuasi, is forecast to increase
modestly. Collahuasi had forecast a rise in production of some 5%, but the
taking down of a SAG mill for 65 days to replace its stator motor (which is
covered by insurance) will result in an attributable shortfall of approximately
13,000 tonnes and a level of production in line with 2006.
Outlook
After four consecutive years of particularly strong growth in the world economy,
the current consensus is one of slightly lower growth in 2007 without undue
pressure on inflation rates and thus the level of interest rates. Although
fundamentals will continue to be positive and overall stock levels below
'normal', both the zinc and the copper markets are likely to see some stock
build up as they move into a surplus in 2007, the extent of which (particularly
in copper) will depend on supply side disruptions. Nickel markets will remain
very tight in 2007, but nickel and zinc markets will see further increases in
supply in 2008. Fundamentals are therefore supportive, but suggest an easing of
prices. The full extent of any price moves and the pace of such change will be
dictated by fluctuations in speculative and investment funds sentiment in
what is likely to be a volatile pricing environment.
FERROUS METALS AND INDUSTRIES
$ million Year ended Year ended
31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Operating profit 1,360 1,456
Kumba 778 568
Highveld Steel 230 436
Scaw Metals 160 121
Samancor Group 52 144
Tongaat-Hulett 154 131
Boart Longyear - 67
Other (14) (11)
EBITDA 1,560 1,779
Net operating assets 2,796 4,439
Capital expenditure (including biological assets) 582 373
Share of Group operating profit 14% 23%
Share of Group net operating assets 10% 12%
Ferrous Metals and Industries' operating profit declined by 7% to $1,360 million
(2005: $1,456 million), mainly as a result of the sale of non-core businesses
that contributed $94 million in 2005, as well as lower vanadium and manganese
prices, partially offset by higher iron ore prices.
Markets
World crude steel production increased by 9% in 2006, to reach a total of 1.2
billion tonnes. China accounted for most of the increase, with its share of
global output rising to 34% in 2006. The South African steel market was
characterised by strong demand, attributable to numerous major projects, among
them infrastructural preparations for the 2010 Soccer World Cup, as well as
expansion by utilities and the mining and chemical industries.
Operating performance
Kumba achieved an operating profit of $778 million (2005: $568 million). Global
iron ore demand remained strong in 2006, fuelled by the continuing expansion of
the steel industry in China. In addition to the 71.5% annual iron ore price
increase achieved in April 2005, an annual increase of 19% was achieved with
effect from April 2006. Export sales volumes for the period grew in line with
production improvements. Kumba Iron Ore produced a record 31 million tonnes of
iron ore for the period, exporting 21 million tonnes. A $754 million, three-year
expansion programme is currently under way at the Sishen mine which will
increase sales volumes by 40% to 45 million tonnes per annum. Ramp-up will
commence in 2007, with full production expected in early 2009.
Scaw produced a record operating profit of $160 million (2005: $121 million).
The acquisition in February of AltaSteel, a manufacturer of steel and
value-added steel products in Canada, together with the acquisition of the
remaining 50% of Moly-Cop Canada, contributed $32 million for the year. Strong
demand for rolled, cast and wire rod products contributed to higher profits. The
international grinding media operations achieved higher sales volumes, although
this benefit was more than offset by negative exchange rate movements.
Anglo American's attributable share of Samancor's operating profit was $52
million (2005: $144 million). The 2005 operating profit included a $16 million
contribution from Samancor's chrome business, which was disposed of in June
2005. Although higher manganese ore sales volumes were achieved, lower alloy
volumes and lower selling prices negatively impacted profits. In 2006, the
average manganese ore price achieved was $2.2 per metric tonne unit (mtu),
compared with the 2005 average price of $2.9/mtu.
Highveld reported a lower operating profit of $230 million (2005: $436 million),
although this performance was still the second best in its history. An increased
contribution from the steel business, driven by strong South African steel
demand, was more than counteracted by the easing of vanadium prices from the
record levels achieved in 2005. In 2006, the average ferrovanadium price
achieved was $39 per kilogram of vanadium (kgV) compared with the 2005 average
of $66/kgV.
Tongaat-Hulett's operating profit grew to $154 million (2005: $131 million). The
sugar operations benefited from a higher world sugar price of 12.8 USc/lb in
2006, compared with 9.0 USc/lb in 2005, while the 2006 South African sugar crop
was the second lowest in 10 years. Hulamin continued its progress in increasing
sales volumes, with record rolled product sales of 183,000 tonnes (2005: 173,000
tonnes). African Products' margins were affected by pricing pressures on starch
and glucose and increasing maize input costs. Moreland benefited from increased
contributions from its commercial, industrial and resorts property development
portfolios.
Strategic review
Further progress was made on optimising the division's asset base during the
year.
In July, Anglo American announced the sale of its 79% shareholding in Highveld
Steel to Evraz, an international steel producer, and Credit Suisse, for an
aggregate consideration of $678 million. Following the disposal of the initial
49.8%, for which Anglo American received $412 million, Evraz has an option to
acquire Anglo American's remaining 29.2% stake in Highveld Steel for $266
million once regulatory approvals are received. This amount will be reduced by
any dividends paid by Highveld Steel prior to Anglo American selling its
remaining shares. The deal represents a substantial foreign direct investment
in South Africa.
In November the Kumba empowerment transaction was completed. This resulted in
the listings on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange of Kumba Iron Ore, as a pure
play iron ore company in which Anglo American holds 64%, and Exxaro, which
became South Africa's largest black economic empowered natural resources
company.
In December the Tongaat-Hulett Group announced the proposed unbundling and
listing of Hulamin and simultaneous introduction of broad based black economic
empowerment into both companies. This transaction, which is anticipated to be
completed by mid 2007, will result in broad based black economic empowerment
groups acquiring 25% and 15% interests in Tongaat-Hulett and Hulamin,
respectively. Anglo American's shareholding in Tongaat-Hulett will reduce from
50% to 38% and its shareholding in Hulamin from an effective 45% to 39%.
In line with Anglo American's objective of consolidating its agri-processing
businesses within Tongaat-Hulett, it was announced in December that
Tongaat-Hulett had acquired Anglo American's 50% shareholding in the Zimbabwe
Stock Exchange listed sugar producer, Hippo Valley Estates, for $36 million.
Outlook
Scaw's volumes in the South African market are expected to grow, driven by
infrastructural expansion and construction and mining industry activity. Demand
for Scaw's products internationally is forecast to remain strong, driven by
mining demand in Latin America and buoyant economic growth in Alberta, Canada.
Samancor should benefit from volume improvements and higher prices. Highveld's
performance in 2007 should be similar to that of 2006, depending largely on
vanadium prices and continued strength in the South African steel demand.
Tongaat-Hulett is expected to benefit from higher sugar production and sales
revenue, while Hulamin plans to continue to grow its rolled product volumes and
optimise its sales mix.
Global economic growth looks set to continue in 2007, albeit at a slightly
softer pace, with global steel output forecast to rise by over 6% in 2007. The
outlook for the division remains broadly positive, given the benchmark annual
iron ore price increase of 9.5% effective 1 April 2007 and a stable rand.
Earnings in 2007 will be influenced by the timing of the sale of Anglo
American's remaining Highveld stake and the transaction unbundling the
Tongaat-Hulett aluminium business.
COAL
$ million Year ended Year ended
31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Operating profit 864 1,019
South Africa 380 470
Australia 279 323
South America 227 240
Projects and corporate (22) (14)
EBITDA 1,082 1,243
Net operating assets 2,862 2,244
Capital expenditure 780 331
Share of Group operating profit 9% 16%
Share of Group net operating assets 10% 6%
Anglo Coal's operating profit decreased by 15% to $864 million. Coal production
and sales for the first half of the year were adversely affected by a
combination of poor weather in South Africa and rail and port constraints in
Australia. In the second half production and sales volumes recovered and were
markedly higher. Nevertheless for the year, operating profit was lower due to an
overall decline in export volumes and a pull back in export prices from the very
high levels of the year before. South Africa, Australia and South America
contributed 44%, 32% and 26% respectively, to operating profit.
Markets
Global demand and supply for thermal coal remained well balanced during 2006.
The dampening effect of mild winter temperatures in Europe and the US was
mitigated by a series of worldwide logistical and production constraints and a
buoyant European energy market, bolstered by high oil and gas prices. The
combination of these factors maintained thermal coal prices at historically high
levels. Metallurgical coal prices softened in 2006 from the highs of 2005,
particularly the semi soft coking and pulverised injection (PCI) coals.
During 2006 geopolitical events demonstrated coal's strategic importance to the
overall energy mix. Compared to oil and gas, coal's security of supply from
widely distributed reserves makes it one of the world's most reliable energy
sources. This together with the development and implementation of clean coal
technologies will, over time, position coal to make a significant contribution
towards satisfying future global energy demand while addressing environmental
concerns.
Operating performance
Operating profit for South African sourced coal, at $380 million, was 19% lower
than the previous year's $470 million, reflecting average realised export prices
which were 6% lower in 2006 and a 1% decline in export sales volumes. The rand
continued to weaken in 2006, with a positive impact on operating profit of $28
million.
Production for the year increased by 2.5 million tonnes, or 4.3%, to 59.3
million tonnes, as Isibonelo went into full production and output from Landau
and New Denmark grew. Landau benefited from improved yields arising from plant
efficiency improvements and favourable contractor performance, whilst New
Denmark benefited from strong longwall performance. Excessive rainfall during
the first quarter hampered production at several operations in particular New
Vaal and Kleinkopje.
Total sales, bolstered by Isibonelo, reached 59.3 million tonnes, 4.5% higher
than prior year. Export sales decreased by 0.2 million tonnes or 1%. Sales to
Eskom rose by 2.5% as increased economic activity continued to spur electricity
demand.
Operating profit for the Australian operations reduced by 14% to $279 million
(although the 2005 results included $27 million from insurance proceeds
pertaining to a roof fall at Moranbah North the previous year). The decline in
operating profit was chiefly on account of lower production volumes arising from
the cessation of mining at Dartbrook owing to difficult geological conditions,
combined with commissioning delays to the Grasstree longwall operation. These
reductions were partly compensated by the staged expansion at Dawson, resulting
in an overall reduction of 0.9 million tonnes for Anglo Coal Australia. Site
costs rose, with industry inflation statistics reporting 11.7% increases year on
year on the back of rising prices of commodities globally and often poor local
availability of scarce resources. Other cost increases came with the expanding
Dawson mine and the purchase of third party coal during the Grasstree transition
phase at Capcoal. Port and rail constraints impeded final sales volumes and
resulted in higher closing stock on hand at all export mine sites.
Callide's output increased by 0.3 million tonnes to 9.8 million tonnes. Dawson
mine received additional heavy mining equipment as part of its incremental
expansion and increased production by 11%, with the coking coal proportion of
its coal mix rising to 45% from 30% in 2005. Drayton maintained output, although
port constraints resulted in the mine being stock bound at year end. During the
year Capcoal moved its main underground operations to the Grasstree mine, which
experienced delays owing to conveyor and longwall commissioning problems,
resulting in an 11% reduction in production. In 2006 work got under way on the
Lake Lindsay project, which will extend open cut mining from the Capcoal
operation. Moranbah North's production was 0.5 million tonnes lower, primarily
as a result of difficult geological challenges being experienced during the
first half of 2006.
In South America, operating profit was 5% lower than 2005 at $227 million
following a decline in export selling prices, higher operating costs,
particularly in respect of fuel prices, and a stronger Colombian peso. The
decrease in operating profit was partly offset by an increase in production at
Cerrejon of 9% to 28.4 million tonnes as the first expansion project was
completed. Sales volumes at Carbones del Guasare in Venezuela were marginally
below 2005 because of transportation difficulties between the mine and the port.
In Australia, capital expenditure for the year was 190% higher at $537 million,
principally attributable to the ramp-up of the $426 million Dawson and $361
million Lake Lindsay projects. Dawson is expected to reach full production of
5.7 million tonnes per annum in 2007. Lake Lindsay is proceeding to plan, with
first coal scheduled for 2008.
In South Africa, the start of work at the $132 million Mafube mine, wash plant
enhancements at Goedehoop and completion of the Isibonelo mine represent the
majority of the capital expenditure. Mafube will increase Anglo Coal's thermal
coal production by 5 million tonnes per annum. The coal projects which have been
identified as part of Project Eureka will continue to enhance Anglo Coal's
participation in the South African coal sector.
In South America the expansion of Cerrejon to 32 million tonnes per annum is
continuing and full production is scheduled for 2008. A pre-feasibility study is
investigating additional capacity beyond 32 million tonnes per annum.
Outlook
The rand exchange rates and coal prices will continue to be the two main
variables in 2007, with export prices expected to be more stable in 2007, though
with a somewhat softer bias.
Thermal coal prices for 2007 will continue to be subject to volatility,
resulting from anticipated growth in India and the Asian economies, increased
incremental supply from major producing regions, unpredictable fluctuations in
seasonal temperatures and the price of competing energy fuels. Hard coking coal
prices have decreased by up to 20% for 2007 contracts beginning in April. Early
negotiations in thermal coal are showing that the market is remaining strong,
with similar prices set to be realised in 2007.
Substantial capital will continue to be invested in all regions, with
accompanying increases in production, particularly in South Africa and
Australia.
In November 2006, Anglo Coal, Hillsborough Resources and North Energy Mining
Incorporated created Peace River Coal, of which Anglo Coal owns 60%. Peace River
Coal is a metallurgical coal mine in Canada that is expected to produce around
2.0 mt in 2007.
The agreement between Anglo Coal and Shell with respect to the joint development
of Monash Energy (coal-to-liquids projects) advances and the conclusion of the
concept study is anticipated in 2007.
In February 2007, Anglo Coal announced the creation of Anglo Inyosi Coal, an
empowered coal company housing key current and future domestic and export
focused coal operations. Anglo Coal has signed a Heads of Agreement with Inyosi,
a newly formed broad based black economic empowerment company. Inyosi will
acquire 27% of Anglo Inyosi Coal, creating a company valued at R7 billion and
incorporating several key Anglo Coal assets, namely Kriel Colliery an existing
mine, and Elders, Zondagsfontein, New Largo and Heidelberg projects.
INDUSTRIAL MINERALS
$ million Year ended Year ended
31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Operating profit 336 370
Tarmac 315 340
Copebras 21 30
EBITDA 580 618
Net operating assets 4,524 3,982
Capital expenditure 298 274
Share of Group operating profit 3% 6%
Share of Group net operating assets 16% 11%
Anglo Industrial Minerals generated an operating profit of $336 million. Tarmac
Group's operating profit was 7% lower than 2005 at $315 million. The UK profit
was down 10%, considered a robust performance in the face of challenging market
conditions, with lower volumes and weaker margins in some businesses exacerbated
by high energy costs for much of the year. Input cost pressures were partly
mitigated by cost savings of some $63 million as a result of operational
efficiencies, including Tarmac's ongoing supply chain management programme.
Markets and operating performance
Tarmac's contribution from its international businesses increased by 5%,
reflecting strong performances by the Middle East and improvements by Poland and
Germany, offset by weaker demand in Spain. Copebras' operating profit was down
30% from the prior year owing to the combined effects of the 11% strengthening
of the Brazilian real against the US dollar and weak demand from the
agricultural sector.
In 2006 Tarmac completed its operational, commercial and organisational
restructuring. The new business structure facilitates continuous improvement
both operationally and commercially. The scope of its activities are also now
clearly defined as aggregates, together with the three routes to market
(asphalt, concrete and concrete products), and integration of cement where
appropriate. This strengthens Tarmac's ability to improve its results and grow.
A special charge for impairment and restructuring costs of $278 million was
taken. This related to businesses sold ($46 million), businesses retained and
restructured ($212 million) and closure and other items ($20 million).
In addition to bolt-on acquisitions in France, the Czech Republic and Poland,
Tarmac successfully entered Turkey and acquired a developing business in
Romania, involving interests in quarries and ready mixed concrete. These
acquisitions enhance Tarmac's ability to develop its business in Central and
eastern Europe, identified as a key focus of the company's growth strategy.
2006 saw increased focus on improving the profitability of underperforming
businesses and on disposing of 'non-core' businesses including the UK based
Minerals and Materials business and the underperforming TopPave business.
Previously announced disposals of assets in Hong Kong and Germany were completed
in the second half of the year.
Tarmac's operating profit in the UK declined owing largely to general market
weakness, which caused demand to fall, and to high and volatile energy related
costs for much of the year. The Aggregate Products business was impacted by weak
demand and a highly competitive marketplace, with demand for coated stone being
8% down on the previous year.
During 2006, additional resources were directed at improving commercial and
operational processes in Aggregate Products, and early results are encouraging.
Work has started on Tarmac's largest ever contract, resurfacing England's M1
motorway - an example of new, long term, framework agreements that now prevail
in the marketplace.
Tarmac's Building Products and International businesses experienced improved
results compared with the previous year. However this gain was offset by weak
demand for aggregate products, particularly in the road and housing sectors.
Despite a substantial decline in demand from the housing sector for blocks,
underlying profits in Building Products were 23% better than 2005. This reflects
the benefits of operational improvements in the Topblock and Precast businesses
and the disposal of the underperforming TopPave business. The Precast business
also benefited from the work related to the construction programme for the 2012
London Olympic games.
Operating profits for Tarmac International improved 5% over the previous year
owing to stronger markets in France and benefits accruing from acquisitions and
re-organisation and improved performance in Poland, the first full-year benefit
of the Shawkah quarry in the Middle East (one of the largest in the Tarmac
Group) and high demand in the Czech Republic and Germany. Profits in Spain were
lower, largely reflecting the impact of higher cement costs despite strong
demand in the Central Region.
Outlook
Market conditions in the UK are expected to remain challenging with weak demand
in some sectors and high cost pressures. The uncertainty of government spending
on infrastructure is also a cause for concern, as is the increasing impact of
different types of construction materials such as steel and timber on the
industry. Volatility of energy prices and the impact that they have on Tarmac's
business in terms of cement and distribution costs will also continue to affect
performance and demand commensurate efforts to drive further efficiencies.
GOLD
$ million Year ended Year ended
31 Dec 2006(1) 31 Dec 2005
Operating profit 467 332
EBITDA 843 871
Net operating assets - 6,982
Capital expenditure 196 722
Group's aggregate investment in AngloGold Ashanti 1,623 -
Share of Group operating profit 5% 5%
Share of Group net operating assets - 20%
(1) The results for 2006 are reported as a subsidiary up to 20 April and
thereafter as an associate at 42% attributable (see note 3 to the financial
information). The Group's share of AngloGold Ashanti's net assets is disclosed.
Attributable operating profit in 2006 climbed to $467 million, 41% higher than
the figure for the previous year (2005: $332 million), mainly due to impact of a
stronger gold price, partially offset by the Group accounting for AngloGold
Ashanti as an associate from 20 April 2006. At the end of 2006 the gold price
($604 per ounce) was more than 36% higher than at the beginning of the year
($445 per ounce), while the average price received for the year was 31% higher
than the prior year. Total cash costs were $27 per ounce higher, at $308 per
ounce, mainly resulting from stronger operating currencies, inflation and lower
grades.
Markets
Investor interest in gold continued throughout 2006. The average gold price
received increased by $138 per ounce to $577. This momentum has continued into
2007, with the spot gold price currently well above the $600 per ounce mark.
Operating performance
In 2006, AngloGold Ashanti's production from ongoing operations declined by 9%
to 5.64 million ounces and was largely attributable to reductions of 305,000
ounces in Tanzania, 122,000 ounces in South Africa and 88,000 ounces in Ghana.
These decreases were only partly compensated by small increases in output from
assets in Australia, Argentina and Mali.
The review of AngloGold Ashanti's assets has resulted in management implementing
programmes to ensure that these operations better their ore reserve, profit
margin and growth potential.
During the year AngloGold Ashanti successfully raised $500 million of equity at
a negligible discount to the prevailing market price.
AngloGold Ashanti is focusing on growing the reserve and resource base, both
through exploration and through a disciplined, value adding mergers and
acquisitions programme.
In respect of both of these activities, the company is now looking outside of
the world's mature gold regions and has exploration projects in Africa in the
Democratic Republic of Congo and in South America in Colombia. In Russia,
AngloGold Ashanti has announced the formation of a strategic alliance with
Polymetal. Strategic alliances are being pursued in China to allow the company
to successfully extract value from a region undergoing significant regulatory
change. Exploration partnerships in the Philippines, Laos and Mongolia have
resulted in land positions being acquired in several prospective areas.
Outlook
The gold price has now risen for six years in succession, which has not been
seen since the deregulation of the gold market in the developed markets in 1971.
Ongoing strong demand from the growing economies of China and India as well as
continued investor speculation and official sector activities are seen as being
supportive of the gold price.
PAPER AND PACKAGING
$ million Year ended Year ended
31 Dec 2006 31 Dec 2005
Operating profit 477 495
Packaging 287 293
Business Paper 130 163
Other 60 39
EBITDA 923 916
Net operating assets 7,019 6,365
Capital expenditure (including biological assets) 644 746
Share of Group operating profit 5% 8%
Share of Group net operating assets 25% 18%
In the second half of the year there was some improvement in overall market
conditions. Operating profit for the second half of 2006 at $265 million was up
on the comparable period for 2005. The second half performance partially offset
the impact of a poor first six months with full year profits of $477 million, 4%
down on 2005. Although operating rates for Mondi's European upstream paper
markets appear to have improved allowing for some price increases, input cost
pressures (fibre, chemicals and energy) and tough trading conditions in
downstream converting activities have continued to put margins under pressure.
In response Mondi has focused on cost saving and profit improvement initiatives
delivering $224 million of benefits for the full year.
Markets and operating performance
Mondi Packaging's operating profit of $287 million was 2% below the previous
year's $293 million, the strong upturn in packaging paper pricing was more than
offset by higher input costs and continued margin pressure in the converting
operations. Mondi has been active in restructuring its converting operations to
improve efficiencies and focus on high growth niche areas, with ten sites
divested and one closed during the year. In addition Mondi closed down two
corrugators amounting to 8% of its capacity. The results of these actions can
be seen in productivity, measured in output per employee which has improved by
9% across the business.
There were several small acquisitions in the period with Mondi further
strengthening its position in the higher growth niche release liner segment
through the acquisition of Akrosil (mainly US and European based), Schleipen and
Erkens and NBG Special Coatings (both European based). The acquisition of
Peterson Barriere in Norway adds to the extrusion coating segment. The
acquisition of the Bulgarian Kraft Paper Factory Stambolijski was finalised
during June. Agreement to dispose of Mondi's stake in Bischof + Klein, an
associate company specialising in polymer films and flexible packaging, was
reached in December with completion expected during the first quarter of 2007.
Mondi is considering an investment in Poland or the Czech Republic in a new
paper machine to produce lightweight testliner and fluting. This is a market
which is growing rapidly and where there is a shortage of product in Eastern
Europe. The cost of this investment is estimated at $365 million and will
provide capacity of 470,000 tonnes with first production expected in the second
half of 2009.
Mondi Business Paper's operating profit of $130 million was 20% down on the $163
million recorded in 2005. Tough trading conditions contributed to the decline
in profits (particularly in the first half), and were compounded by the slow
start up at the Merebank South Africa operation, of the paper machine PM31
following a major rebuild, and expenses related to project development.
PM31 is now operating at a much improved run rate and is producing better grades
of paper. Further improvement is required which may include some modifications
to the machine in order that it can produce at its designed potential. In
addition the South African operation is undergoing a major restructuring
programme to improve efficiencies and lower costs. As a result of this
restructuring and the improvement in PM31 performance a better result is
expected in 2007 from the South Africa.
Within the rest of the business the non-integrated mills saw profitability
significantly eroded by rising pulp costs but both Syktyvkar and Ruzomberok
recorded strong results on the back of increased sales volumes and good cost
control.
In response to weak European market conditions Mondi took 110,000 tonnes at
annual production capacity out of the business papers market in 2006 by
irreversibly converting the Dunaujvaros mill in Hungary to a speciality paper
plant and selling the assets.
Overall product demand was positive with uncoated woodfree sales volumes up 10%
also helped by increased production from PM31. The increased demand has led to
improved operating rates and some improvement in pricing towards the end of the
year (an average price increase of 4% was announced across Mondi business
paper's key paper grades in January 2007). However pricing is still well below
historic mid cycle levels and margins continue to be impacted by rising input
costs, particularly for fibre and energy.
Consideration is being given to a major modernisation programme for the Russian
operation which could see substantial investment over the next five years in
improving infrastructure, increasing capacity and reducing cost through enhanced
efficiencies. This capital expenditure programme includes some elements that
would have been part of the previously announced major pulp expansion project
(initial cost estimate of $1.5 billion) and will allow the mill to be in a good
position to reconsider this project once the modernisation programme is
complete.
Mondi Packaging South Africa had a better year with improved agricultural
packaging volumes and good cost control. Other operations which comprise the
Newsprint and Merchant activities as well as corporate costs saw net operating
profits well up on the comparable period. All major trading operations recorded
improved results with both newsprint operations performing well as a result of
an improved pricing environment.
Outlook
The company enjoyed a strong finish to 2006 which will provide a good platform
going into 2007 and whilst the trading environment has undoubtedly improved,
concerns remain about the strength of the recovery and the level of overcapacity
in some of the markets in which Mondi operates. Mondi is encouraged by the
number and scale of recent industry announcements regarding capacity closures
and this bodes well for the future. Overall, Mondi expects a better financial
performance in 2007, despite rising corporate costs (in anticipation of the
demerger from Anglo American plc), as a result of improved pricing for its key
products, focus on cost saving and the benefits of a better PM31 performance.
For full financial accounts please find attached pdf document.
http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/5923r_-2007-2-20.pdf
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange