Our opinion on the current state of GFI

Gold Fields, an international gold mining house, operates primarily with its challenging yet significant asset, the South Deep mine in South Africa. Acquired in 2006, South Deep has been a major focus for Gold Fields, which has invested R32 billion into making the mine profitable. Despite the mine's depth and technical complications, its vast unmined gold resource drives the company's commitment to its development.

Gold Fields has also engaged in efforts to reduce its dependency on Eskom by partnering with an independent power producer (IPP) for a 50MW project in South Africa. Additionally, the company has allocated $502 million over two years to ensure its international operations at Damang and Gruyere can sustain production of 2 million ounces annually for the next decade. Significant cost reductions at South Deep and strategic focus on the Salares Norte gold mine in Chile illustrate Gold Fields' proactive approach to growth and efficiency.

The company has navigated labor relations effectively, securing a three-year wage deal in June 2021 with an average 6.5% annual wage increase. However, Gold Fields faced investor skepticism in May 2022 after announcing the acquisition of Canadian company Yamana Gold in a deal valued at approximately R103 billion, leading to a 20% drop in its share price due to concerns over dilution and the acquisition price. Despite initial resistance from major shareholders and the eventual fallout of the Yamana Gold acquisition bid in November, which paradoxically led to a 20% share price increase, Gold Fields remains focused on growth and shareholder value, as evidenced by its adoption of a new dividend policy.

For the first half of 2023, Gold Fields reported a slight decrease in gold production and a dip in HEPS, reflecting challenges in maintaining production levels, particularly at Damang. The third quarter of 2023 saw further production declines, especially in Ghana, as part of the planned reduction at Damang. The disposal of its 45% interest in the Asanko gold mine in December 2023 marks another strategic move, albeit with the company projecting a decrease in HEPS for the full year of 2023.

Despite the volatility associated with the gold market and operational challenges, Gold Fields has demonstrated resilience and strategic foresight in navigating the complexities of international gold mining. The company's long-term investments, particularly in South Deep, and its strategic adjustments reflect a commitment to sustainable growth and operational efficiency. Gold Fields remains a significant player in the gold mining sector, with its performance closely tied to the fluctuating international gold prices, making it a potentially rewarding but volatile investment option.