Centerra Gold Reports Third Quarter Results, Net Earnings of $18 million or $0.07 per Share
TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwire) -- 11/05/10 -- Centerra Gold Inc. (TSX: CG)
(This news release contains forward-looking information that is subject to the risk factors and assumptions set out on page 15 and in our Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information on page 17. All figures are in United States dollars).
Centerra Gold Inc. (TSX: CG) today reported third quarter net earnings of $17.7 million or $0.07 per common share based on revenues of $115.5 million compared to net earnings of $20.2 million or $0.09 per common share on revenues of $158.8 million in the same quarter of 2009. As a result of the completion of the sale of the REN property early in the third quarter, the third quarter results include a gain of $34.9 million.
Consolidated gold production for the third quarter of 2010 was in line with the Company's guidance and totalled 96,308 ounces at a total cash cost of $798 per ounce produced compared to 165,883 ounces at a total cash cost of $424 per ounce produced in the corresponding quarter of 2009. (Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under 'Non-GAAP Measures' in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis issued in conjunction with this news release.) During the third quarter of 2010, cash used by operations, net of working capital changes, was $24.5 million compared to cash provided by operations of $63.4 million in the third quarter of 2009.
Third Quarter Highlights
-- Maintain 2010 gold production and cost guidance
-- The Company completed the sale of the REN property resulting in a gain
of $34.9 million
-- Appointed Mr. Raphael Girard, Mr. Karybek Ibraev and Mr. Amandgeldy
Muraliev to the Board of Directors August 19, 2010
-- Drilling has extended Kumtor's SB Zone, 120 metres along strike to the
northeast
-- Strong cash balances and no debt while continuing to fund capital
programs
-- Subsequent to end of third quarter settled Kumtor strike
Commentary
Steve Lang, President and CEO of Centerra stated, 'The quarterly gold production at both sites was right in line with our expectations. The fourth quarter will see a significant increase in the gold production at Kumtor as we get back into mining the high-grade SB Zone. While the 10-day strike at Kumtor did not have any impact on annual guidance, we are pleased that we could settle it quickly and get the operation back to normal.'
'At the Boroo operation, the mining phase is coming to an end and mining activities will cease at the end of November this year. We had planned to redeploy workers from Boroo to Gatsuurt, but due to the delay in commissioning the Gatsuurt project due to the uncertain impact of the water basin and forests law, we will layoff approximately 250 workers at Boroo on December 1, 2010. We continue to work closely with the Mongolian Government regarding the commissioning of Gatsuurt.'
Financial and Operating Summary
Revenue for the third quarter of 2010 was $115.5 million compared to $158.8 million during the same period in 2009. Third quarter 2010 revenue reflects a 29% increase in realized gold price ($1,234 per ounce in the third quarter of 2009 versus $959 per ounce in the third quarter of 2009) offset by a 44% decrease in ounces sold in the period.
The Company produced a total of 96,308 ounces of gold in the third quarter of 2010, compared to 165,883 ounces of gold produced in the third quarter of 2009. Gold production at both operations was lower than the comparative period. Kumtor's decrease mainly reflects lower ore grades and higher waste volumes moved, while Boroo's comparative results reflect lower grades and recoveries as well as lower contribution from the heap leach operation which remained idle pending issuance of a final operating permit by the government authorities. See 'Operations Update - Kumtor and Boroo/Gatsuurt'.
Centerra's total cash cost per ounce produced was $798 in the third quarter of 2010, up from $424 in the third quarter of 2009 due primarily to lower gold production at both Kumtor and Boroo. The increase in unit cash cost per ounce produced was due to a 42% reduction in gold production ($306 per ounce), combined with a 9% increase in operating costs ($68 per ounce) primarily related to the increase in volumes of waste moved at Kumtor and higher fuel and labour costs at both sites. See 'Operations Update'. (Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under 'Non-GAAP Measures' in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis, issued in conjunction with this news release.)
Cash used in operations was $24.5 million for the third quarter of 2010 compared to a source of cash of $63.4 million for the prior year third quarter. The decrease reflects the lower earnings as a result of reduced gold sales volumes and higher operating costs, as well as the impact of increased working capital.
Capital expenditures spent and accrued in the third quarter of 2010 amounted to $72.8 million of which $14.8 million was spent on sustaining capital projects. Growth capital totaled $58.0 million which related mainly to the purchase of new CAT 789 haul trucks at Kumtor ($32.2 million), the underground development at Kumtor ($9.7 million), raising the tailings dam at Boroo ($2.5 million) and spending on site development for the Gatsuurt project ($1.3 million). Capital expenditures in the comparative quarter of 2009 totalled $21.0 million, consisting of $6.1 million of sustaining capital and $14.9 million of growth capital.
Exploration expenditures for the third quarter were $8.0 million compared to $6.8 million in the third quarter of 2009 reflecting increased activity in Mongolia at Gatsuurt, Ulaan Bulag and on other exploration and J.V. projects.
Centerra's cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments at the end of September 2010 were $334.7 million, compared to cash and short-term investments of $322.9 million at December 31, 2009.
Other Corporate Developments
Boroo/Gatsuurt
At the Boroo operation, the mining phase is coming to an end and mining activities will cease at the end of November 2010. The Boroo mill will continue to operate until mid-2011 processing stockpiled ores. Because of delays in receiving the necessary approvals and commissioning of the Gatsuurt project due to uncertain impact of the water basin and forest law, the Company will layoff approximately 250 workers at Boroo on December 1, 2010, which the Company had originally planned to redeploy from Boroo to Gatsuurt. The Company continues its constructive discussions with the Government of Mongolia to resolve uncertainty resulting from the water basin and forests law. See 'Mongolia - Mongolian Legislation' below.
Kumtor
At the Kumtor operation, production at the mine was suspended on October 1, 2010 after the unionized employees commenced an illegal work stoppage on October 1, 2010. The strike was settled on October 10, 2010 and workers returned to work that evening. A new collective agreement was ratified by the union and will expire on December 31, 2012.
Inaugural Annual Dividend
As part of the Company's long-term strategy to maximize shareholder value, the Company's inaugural annual dividend of Cdn$0.06 per common share was paid on September 8, 2010 to shareholders of record at the close of business on August 18, 2010. It is the intention of the Board of Directors to review the amount of the dividend on an annual basis depending upon the Company's cash balances, operating cash flows, anticipated capital requirements for future growth and the yields of comparable companies' dividend rates.
Board Appointments
In accordance with the restated shareholders agreement between the Company and Kyrgyzaltyn JSC dated as of June 6, 2009 (the 'Restated Shareholders Agreement'), Centerra appointed Mr. Amandgeldy Muraliev and Mr. Karybek Ibraev to the Board of Directors August 19, 2010.
Mr. Muraliev, a Kyrgyz citizen, has extensive experience in politics, including being the Prime Minister of the Kyrgyz Republic from 1999 to 2000, and later being a member and advisor to the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of the Kyrgyz Government. Mr. Muraliev is the First Vice Prime Minister of the Interim Government of the Kyrgyz Republic, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Kyrgyzaltyn JSC a shareholder of the Company. Mr. Muraliev received degrees from the Academy of National Economy under the USSR Council of Ministers and the Frunze Polytechnic Institute.
Mr. Ibraev, a Kyrgyz citizen, has extensive experience in the mining industry. Mr. Ibraev is a consultant with the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Secretariat in the Kyrgyz Republic. Mr. Ibraev is also a former executive director of the Kyrgyz Mining Association. Mr. Ibraev is a member of the Kyrgyz Mining Association and received degrees from the L'Ecole de Mine de Paris, and the Moscow Geological Exploration Institute. In accordance with the Restated Shareholders Agreement, Mr. Ibraev is independent from the Kyrgyz Government.
On August 19, 2010, Mr. Raphael Girard was also appointed to Centerra's Board of Directors. Mr. Girard is a public policy and international business consultant who retired from the Department of Foreign Affairs in August 2003. Prior to his retirement, Mr. Girard was the Canadian Ambassador to Romania, and earlier to the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Mr. Girard was a member of the Board of Directors of Gabriel Resources Ltd. from 2005 to 2010. Mr. Girard received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of British Columbia.
Kyrgyz Republic
Parliamentary elections were held in the Kyrgyz Republic on October 10, 2010. According to reports the elections were carried out according to accepted democratic standards and the results reflect the will of the electorate. Five parties have received sufficient votes to be represented in the Parliament. Currently, the parties are in talks to form a governing coalition. While political and civil conditions appear to have stabilized, the political situation in the Kyrgyz Republic continues to evolve and there can be no assurances that future political developments will not have an adverse impact on the Company's assets or operations.
Mongolia
Mongolian Regulatory Matters
The regulatory conditions in Mongolia have not changed substantially since Centerra's second quarter 2010 report. During the quarter however, progress was made in the development of dispute resolution mechanisms through a commitment made by the Prime Ministers of both Canada and Mongolia to press forward on the conclusion of a Foreign Investment Protection Agreement. The following discussion summarizes the current status of Mongolian regulatory matters affecting Centerra.
On June 12, 2009, the main operating licenses at the Company's Boroo mine were suspended by the Minerals Resources Authority of Mongolia ('MRAM') following extensive inspections of the Boroo mine operation conducted by the Mongolian General Department of Specialized Inspection ('SSIA'). While the suspension was lifted on July 27, 2009, several issues arising from the inspection continue to be discussed by Centerra and the Mongolian regulatory authorities. On October 23, 2009, Centerra received a very significant claim for compensation from the SSIA in respect of certain mineral reserves, including state alluvial reserves covered by the Boroo mine licenses, that are recorded in the Mongolian state reserves registry, but for which there are no or incomplete records or reports of mining activity. Centerra disputes the claim. While Centerra cannot give assurances, it believes settlement will be concluded through negotiation and will not result in a material impact. In addition, the SSIA inspections raised a concern about the production and sale of gold from the Boroo heap leach facility. The heap leach facility was operated under a temporary permit from June 2008 until the expiry of the temporary permit in April 2009 and Boroo Gold Company Ltd. ('BGC') paid all relevant royalties and taxes with respect to gold produced from the heap leach facility during that period. BGC believes that it had all necessary permits to carry out its heap leach activities and that any regulatory concerns are unfounded. BGC is continuing its efforts to obtain a final permit for the operation of its heap leach facility at the Boroo mine.
On November 2, 2009, Centerra received a letter from the Mongolian Ministry of Finance re-iterating some of the issues raised by the SSIA and indicating that the Boroo Stability Agreement would be terminated if such issues were not resolved within a period of 120 days from the date of the letter. The Company has held discussions with the Ministry of Finance regarding such concerns and has received no further notice from the Ministry of Finance with respect to the possible termination of the Boroo Stability Agreement. While the Company believes that the issues raised by the Ministry of Finance and the SSIA will be resolved through negotiations without a material impact on the Company, there can be no assurance that this will be the case.
Mongolian Legislation
The legislative conditions in Mongolia have not changed substantially since Centerra's second quarter 2010 report. The commissioning of the Gatsuurt project has been delayed as a result of the uncertain impact of the Water and Forest Law. The following discussion summarizes the current status of certain Mongolian legislation that may affect Centerra, including its Gatsuurt project and other Mongolian mineral licenses.
In July 2009, the Mongolian Parliament enacted legislation that would prohibit mineral prospecting, exploration and mining in water basins and forest areas in the territory of Mongolia and provides for the revocation of licenses affecting such areas (the 'Water and Forest Law'). The legislation provides a specific exemption for 'mineral deposits of strategic importance', and accordingly, the main Boroo mining licenses will not be subject to the law. The Company's Gatsuurt licenses and its other exploration license holdings in Mongolia are currently not exempt. In March 2010, the Company received a letter from MRAM stating that certain of its mining and exploration licenses, including the Gatsuurt mining licenses, could be revoked under the Water and Forest Law. The letter requested that the Company submit an estimate of expenses incurred in relation to each license and the compensation that it would expect to receive if such licenses were to be revoked. The Company has provided a detailed estimate to MRAM for all potentially affected licenses. The Company has submitted a draft Investment Agreement for the Gatsuurt Project to the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Energy ('MMRE'). In April 2010, the Company received a letter from the MMRE indicating that the Gatsuurt licenses are within the area designated on a preliminary basis where minerals mining is prohibited under the Water and Forest Law. The letter also stated that the MMRE will communicate with the Company regarding the investment agreement when the MMRE has more clarity on the impact of the law. The Company is reasonably confident that the economic and development benefits resulting from its exploration and development activities will ultimately result in the law having a limited impact on the Company's Mongolian activities.
In August 2009, the Government of Mongolia repealed its windfall profit tax of 68% in respect of gold sales at a price in excess of US$850 an ounce, with the repeal to take effect on January 1, 2011.
Other
On July 2, 2010, the Company closed the sale of its REN interest to Homestake Mining Company of California ('Homestake'), a subsidiary of Barrick Gold Corporation, for cash proceeds of $35.2 million.
Operations Update
Kumtor
At the Kumtor mine, gold production was 68,757 ounces in the third quarter of 2010 compared to 133,459 ounces of gold in the third quarter of 2009. As planned, due to the mining sequence, the operation processed lower ore grades. The mill head grade averaged 1.57 g/t with a recovery of 73.4% in the third quarter of 2010, compared to 3.52 g/t with a recovery of 73.3% in the same quarter of 2009.
During the third quarter of 2010, the mill processed 1.39 million tonnes compared to 1.55 million tonnes or 10% lower than the same period of 2009 as a result of the planned mill shutdown in July 2010 to replace the SAG mill ring gear and the SAG mill liner.
Total cash cost per ounce produced, a non-GAAP measure of production efficiency, increased to $887 in the third quarter of 2010 from $427 in the third quarter of 2009. The year-over-year $460 increase in unit cash cost per ounce produced was due to 48% reduction in gold production ($401/ounce) and higher operating costs ($59/ounce) in 2010 period. Mining costs increased 17% to $35.5 million in the third quarter of 2010 due to higher diesel costs which increased costs by $4.9 million ($0.62 per litre vs. $0.40 per litre in 2009), increased expenditures for dewatering supplies ($1.2 million), blasting material ($1.1 million) and labour costs ($0.9 million) offset by lower expenditures on reagents and other consumables. Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under 'Non-GAAP Measures' in the Management's Discussion and Analysis issued in conjunction with this news release.
Exploration costs for the third quarter 2010 were $3.3 million unchanged from the third quarter in 2009.
Capital expenditures in the third quarter of 2010 totalled $70.3 million compared to $18.2 million for the same period in the prior year. This consisted of $13.8 million of sustaining capital, predominantly spent on the heavy duty equipment overhaul program ($5.6 million), replacement of four dozers ($1.4 million), shear key, buttress and tailing dam construction ($3.8 million) and replacement and re-alignment of the SAG mill girth gear ($1.7 million). Growth capital investment totalled $56.5 million spent mainly on the purchase of CAT 789 haul trucks ($32.2 million), other equipment ($8.7 million) and underground development of the declines for SB and Stockwork Zones ($9.7 million).
At the request of the Kyrgyz Government, the Company agreed in August 2010 to make advances of $11 million against future revenue-based tax ($8 million was advanced in the third quarter 2010 and the balance of $3 million was advanced in October 2010). The advances will be applied against the 2010 revenue-based tax otherwise payable in January 2011.
The SB Zone underground decline (Decline #1) has now advanced to a total of 854 metres. During the quarter the decline advancement continued and drill and remuck bays were established. The development rate was impacted by the ground conditions as faulting and geo-structural conditions slowed the development rate. The exploration drilling was restarted in the third quarter and delineation drilling of the SB Zone is expected to commence late in the fourth quarter of 2010 or early 2011.
The Stockwork Zone underground decline (Decline #2) has advanced a total of 399 metres. Decline #2 will facilitate the access to the Stockwork Zone and the SB Zone for further exploration and delineation drilling. During the second quarter, two headings were established in Decline #2 and are advancing concurrently. The second heading in Decline #2 was established for the exploration and delineation drilling program for the Stockwork Zone. It has advanced 110 metres toward the north. Drill bays will be established along the 400 meter access drift. Exploration and delineation drilling of the Stockwork Zone resource is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2010 and will continue into 2011.
Boroo/Gatsuurt
At the Boroo mine, gold production was 27,551 ounces in the third quarter of 2010 compared to 32,424 ounces in the third quarter of 2009, which included 4,322 ounces of heap leach production. During the third quarter 2010, the heap leach operation remained idle awaiting issuance of the final operating permit from the Mongolian government. The lower gold production in 2010 was the result of lower average mill head grades, 1.97 g/t in the third quarter versus 2.45 g/t in the third quarter 2009 and lower recoveries 69.8% compared to 76.0% for the same period last year. In the comparative 2009 quarter, gold production was impacted by an operational shutdown as a result of a six week license suspension which ended July 27th, 2009.
Total cash cost per ounce produced, a non-GAAP measure of production efficiency, was $575 in the third quarter of 2010 compared to $411 in the third quarter of 2009. The year-over-year increase in unit cash cost per ounce produced was due to higher operating costs in the 2010 period and lower gold production. The increase in the unit cash cost per ounce produced of $164 per ounce results from increased operating costs ($91/ounce) and lower ounces produced ($73/ounce). Mining costs were unchanged at $3.8 million in the third quarter of 2010, but milling costs were 63% higher at $5.4 million primarily due to higher costs for electricity, reagents and grinding media. During the quarter, diesel costs increased $0.8 million ($0.87 per litre vs. $0.71 per litre in 2009) and royalties increased by $0.4 million due to higher sales revenue achieved from higher gold price. Costs associated with heap leaching activities were $0.5 million or 49% lower than the same period in 2009 as a result of the expiry of the temporary operating permit for the heap leach operation in April 2009. Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under 'Non-GAAP Measures' in the Management's Discussion and Analysis issued in conjunction with this news release.
During the third quarter of 2010, exploration expenditures in Mongolia increased to $2.2 million from $0.9 million in the same period of 2009.
Capital expenditures spent and accrued at Boroo in the third quarter of 2010 were $3.5 million compared to $0.6 million the same quarter of 2009. This consisted of $1.0 million of sustaining capital, predominantly spent on heavy equipment component change outs. Growth capital investment totalled $2.5 million spent on raising the tailings dam to accommodate future production including Gatsuurt oxide ores.
At the Gatsuurt project, $1.3 million of growth capital was spent and accrued in the quarter primarily related to completing the site preparation. Road construction to the Gatsuurt project is complete and all site preparation is complete. Minimal capital spending is planned on the Gatsuurt project going forward while waiting for the final approvals to commence mining (See 'Other Corporate Developments - Mongolia - Mongolian Legislation').
Exploration Update
To view the graphics, maps/drill sections and complete drill results discussed in this news release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/CG1105figuresA.pdf or visit the Company's web site at: www.centerragold.com.
Kyrgyz Republic
During the third quarter of 2010, exploration drilling programs continued in the Kumtor Central Pit and regional exploration drilling continued on the Kumtor concession area at the Northeast, Muzdusuu areas and at the Southwest and Sarytor Deposits. Surface exploration work commenced the Karasay and Koendy project areas.
Kumtor Pit
In the third quarter of 2010, six drill holes were completed during the quarter and a further three holes were in progress at quarter-end. One hole was completed to test the northeast extension of the Kumtor structure at the 3,250 metre elevation approximately 700 metres below the planned bottom of the open pit. Hole D1399A intersected the Kumtor structure but returned only low-grade mineralization including 2.8 g/t Au over 9.0 metres and 2.6 g/t Au over 4.0 metres.
Two holes were completed to test the northeast strike extension of the SB Zone with both holes returning significant results. Hole D1441, drilled on section 38 in the SB Zone, intersected high grade mineralization of 11.2 g/t Au over 25.7 metres (including 14.9 g/t Au over 18.3 metres) and 21.0 g/t Au over 5.5 metres (including 27.5 g/t Au over 4.0 metres), at approximately the 3,500 metre elevation. Hole D1443, drilled on section 46 in the SB Zone, intersected significant mineralization including 9.1 g/t Au over 4.2 metres and 9.4 g/t Au over 3.6 metres at the 3,500 metre elevation. These holes have extended the SB Zone a further 120 metres along strike at this elevation. Further drilling to test the strike and down dip extension of the SB Zone to the northeast is planned in the fourth quarter 2010.
Three holes were completed to test the Southwest Extension of the SB Zone with all of the holes returning significant results. Hole D1433, drilled on section -18, tested the up dip projection of SB Zone primarily within the current pit design and it intersected wide zones of mineralization with intercepts of 1.6 g/t Au over 14.2 metres, 6.8 g/t Au over 7.0 metres (including 13.2 g/t Au over 3.2 metres) and 1.4 g/t Au over 28.0 metres. Hole D1452 and D1454 were both drilled on section -22 and returned significant intercepts immediately below the bottom of the planned open pit. Hole D1452 returned intercepts of 5.9 g/t Au over 20.6 metres (including 8.8 g/t over 11.3 metres), 4.8 g/t Au over 21.6 metres (including 10.4 g/t Au over 3.5 metres) and 2.6 g/t Au over 11.3 metres at 3,750 metre elevation. Hole D1454 intersected 5.8 g/t Au over 20.4 metres including 7.5 g/t Au over 9.1 metres, 4.6 g/t Au over 9.3 metres and 1.7 g/t Au over 9.4 metres at 3,700 metre elevation.
Additional drilling of the Southwest Extension of the SB Zone and the northeast side of the SB Zone will be completed in the fourth quarter should access be available within this active mining area of the open pit.
True widths for the mineralized zones are typically from 70% to 95% of the stated intercept.
Regional Exploration
Regional exploration drilling continued in the third quarter of 2010 at the Northeast prospect, Muzdusuu area, the Sarytor and Southwest Deposits.
Northeast Area
Twenty-one drill holes were completed during the quarter and a further three holes were in progress at the end of the quarter. The drilling is designed to test the extent of the near surface potential open pit mineralization at the Northeast prospect on 40 metre centres over a strike length of 800 metres to a depth of 200 metres.
Some of the better intervals and grades of mineralization intersected in the third quarter include: drill hole DN1428 3.4 g/t Au over 5.8 metres, DN1431 1.2 g/t Au over 4.8 metres, 2.0 g/t Au over 5.2 metres, 2.0 g/t Au over 4.0 metres, DN 1436 2.1 g/t Au over 4.3 metres, 2.2 g/t Au over 15.6 metres, 8.5 g/t Au over 2.9 metres, DN1446 2.7 g/t Au over 12.2 metres and DN1451 3.6 g/t Au over 4.8 metres.
Southwest Area
Four drill holes were completed during the third quarter of 2010 and one hole was in progress at quarter-end.
The wide spaced drilling was designed to test for zones of high grade mineralization below the planned open pit. The holes intersected zones of moderate to strong alteration with low to moderate grade mineralization. The most extensive mineralization was in hole SW-10-236A which returned intercepts of 1.8 g/t Au over 12.1 metres, 2.3 g/t Au over 25.5 metres, 1.3 g/t Au over 10.6 metres, 1.6 g/t Au over 7.0 metres and 2.2 g/t Au over 2.9 metres. Hole SW-10-237A intersected 4.4 g/t Au over 4.9 metres and 3.6 g/t Au over 14.4 metres, hole SW-10-238 intersected 3.1 g/t Au over 18.2 metres and hole SW-10-239 intersected 1.4 g/t Au over 4.0 metres.
Muzdusuu Area
One hole was completed in the third quarter to test for structurally bounded blocks of limestone and sandstone which are considered prospective settings for mineralization in the footwall of the Kumtor Fault. Drilling intersected Neogene-Paleogene sediments with no significant mineralization.
Sarytor Area
One hole was completed at Sarytor and one hole was in progress at quarter-end. Hole SR-10-196 was drilled to test for high grade mineralization on the structure below the planned Sarytor open pit, with the best mineralization intersected returning assays of 2.3 g/t Au over 3 metres.
A complete listing of the drill results and supporting maps for the Kumtor pit and Northeast area have been filed on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval ('SEDAR') at www.sedar.com and are available at the Company's web site at: www.centerragold.com.
Mongolia
Exploration work in the second quarter was conducted at the Gatsuurt, Ulaan Bulag, Sumber and Khuder properties in the Yeroogol trend and at the Altan Tsagaan Ovoo, Uul Bayan and Tuvshinshire properties in Eastern Mongolia.
Gatsuurt Project
During the third quarter of 2010 exploration drilling continued at Gatsuurt with 31 holes completed. In addition, geological mapping, trenching, soil sampling and geophysical surveys also continued.
Drilling was carried out on the eastern side of the Central Zone deposit to fill in the remaining gaps in the 30 x 30 metre grid on the SS-01 and SS-02 targets and also test for the continuity of the mineralization between the two zones. Drilling was also carried out to test the GT-60 target which is located on the Sujigtei fault 150 metres to the northeast of the Central Pit.
Drilling of the SS-01 and SS-02 zones of mineralization has shown that even though the two zones are controlled by the same structures, there is a gap in mineralization between the zones that is defined by a less-altered block of metasedimentary rock. The drilling completed to the northwest and east of the SS-01 mineralized zone shows only weak mineralization present. The drilling completed at the SS-02 mineralized zone indicates that the gold-bearing granite is located 50 - 75 metres below surface. Additional drilling will be carried out in the fourth quarter to test additional targets.
During the third quarter 30 by 30 metre grid drilling was carried out on the GT-60 target that it located on the Sujigtei fault approximately 150 metres to the northeast of the Central Pit. Results indicate that the gold mineralization is primarily steep dipping and is confined to altered granite mainly silica and sericitic. The mineralization is relatively consistent from section to section, with rare high-grade intervals with visible gold. Gently dipping mineralized structures have also been identified with narrow zones of mineralization.
A complete listing of the drill results and supporting maps for the Gatsuurt Project have been filed on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval ('SEDAR') at www.sedar.com and are available at the Company's web site at: www.centerragold.com.
Ulaan Bulag Prospect
During the third quarter a further 8 holes were completed to test the western part of the Nuga Zone. The results are encouraging and indicate that the western continuation of the Nuga Zone has potential to host additional mineralization that is similar to the eastern zone. The mineralization is primarily oxide at a depth of 15 to 80 metres to the mineralization upper boundary. Further drilling is in progress to define the mineralization on the Western part of the Nuga Zone.
To view the graphics, maps/drill sections and complete drill results discussed in this news release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/CG1105figuresA.pdf or visit the Company's web site at: www.centerragold.com.
Outlook for 2010
2010 Production
Centerra's 2010 consolidated gold production is forecast to be in the 640,000 to 700,000 ounce range, which is unchanged from the prior guidance disclosed in the Company's news release of July 30, 2010.
Gold production for the full year 2010 at the Kumtor mine in the Kyrgyz Republic is forecast to be between 530,000 to 570,000 ounces, which is unchanged from prior guidance. At the Kumtor operation, production at the mine was suspended on October 1, 2010 after the unionized employees commenced an illegal work stoppage on October 1, 2010. The strike was settled on October 10, 2010 and workers returned to work that evening. A new collective agreement was ratified by the union and will expire on December 31, 2012. The Company continues to expect that during the fourth quarter Kumtor will produce approximately 40% of its 2010 production.
At Boroo/Gatsuurt, gold production is forecast to be 110,000 to 130,000 ounces, which is unchanged from prior guidance.
While the Company believes it has met all the regulatory pre-conditions for the issuance of the final heap leach operating permit, its issuance continues to be delayed. Due to these continued delays in obtaining the final permit, the Company has removed any heap leach production from this year's production guidance. If the final operating permit is received, resumption of heap leach operations at Boroo would add approximately 3,000 to 4,000 ounces per month to production.
The production guidance does not include any gold production from Gatsuurt. While the Company has received the permits and approvals in connection with the road construction to Gatsuurt and for construction of surface facilities at the project, further approvals and commissioning of the project have been delayed as a result of the Water and Forest Law, see 'Other Corporate Developments, Mongolia, Mongolian Legislation'.
The processing of remaining mine ores by the Boroo mill, in conjunction with, the processing of stockpiled lower grade ores will allow the operation to meet its 2010 production guidance. Mining activities will be terminated at Boroo during the fourth quarter as the ores in Pit 3 will be exhausted.
These production estimates are based on certain assumptions. See 'Material Assumptions' below.
2010 Total Cash Cost per Ounce
Total cash cost in 2010 is expected to be between $460 and $505 per ounce produced, which is unchanged from the prior guidance of April 28, 2010. Total cash cost is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under 'Non-GAAP Measures' in the Management's Discussion and Analysis issued in conjunction with this news release.
Total cash cost for 2010 for Kumtor is expected to be in the range of $430 to $460 per ounce produced, which is unchanged from the prior guidance.
Boroo total cash cost for 2010 which reflects no production from either the heap leach operation or Gatsuurt and is expected to be $590 to $690 per ounce produced, which is unchanged from the prior guidance.
Centerra's production and unit costs are forecast as follows:
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2010 Production Forecast 2010 Total Cash Cost(1)
(ounces of gold) ($ per ounce produced)
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Kumtor 530,000 - 570,000 430 - 460
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Boroo 110,000 - 130,000 590 - 690
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Consolidated 640,000 - 700,000 460 - 505
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(1) Total cash cost is a non-GAAP measure. See 'Non-GAAP Measures' in the
Management's Discussion and Analysis issued in conjunction with this
news release.
These cost estimates are based on certain assumptions. See 'Material Assumptions' below.
2010 Exploration Expenditures
Exploration expenditures of $30 million are planned for 2010, and the exploration plan is unchanged from the prior guidance. Generative programs will continue in Central Asia, Russia, China, Turkey and the U.S. to increase the pipeline of projects that are being developed to meet the longer term growth targets of Centerra.
2010 Capital Expenditures
The capital expenditures for 2010 are estimated to be $230.8 million, including $44.1 million of sustaining capital and $186.7 million of growth capital. This represents a decrease of $10.3 million from prior guidance primarily due to the timing of expenditures and reclassification of some expenditures related to growth capital at Gatsuurt.
Capital expenditures include:
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2010 Growth Capital 2010 Sustaining Capital
Projects (millions of dollars) (millions of dollars)
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Kumtor mine $164.2 $ 40.2
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Boroo mine $ 5.9 $ 3.6
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Gatsuurt project $ 16.6 0
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Other 0 $ 0.3
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Consolidated Total $186.7 $ 44.1
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Kumtor Capital
At Kumtor capital expenditures are estimated at $204.4 million representing a $7.7 million increase from prior guidance, which includes an increase in growth capital of $11.1 million partially offset by decrease in sustaining capital of $3.4 million. The primary reason for the increase in the growth capital relates to a determination that approximately $10 million of planned pre-stripping costs associated with the SB Zone should be treated as capital and not operating costs in accordance with the Company's accounting policies. The decrease of $3.4 million in sustaining capital is due to postponing or cancellation of some capital projects.
The largest growth capital expenditure will be for the North Wall Expansion project, estimated at $92.7 million primarily for purchases of mining and auxiliary support equipment to renew and expand the mining fleet by 22 haul trucks. The equipment ordered has begun to arrive on schedule. In addition, seven new CAT 789 haul trucks were purchased to increase haulage capacity to manage the ice/waste movement in the high movement area for a total cost of $20.7 million. At the end of September 2010, 13 new CAT 789 trucks were on site and operational. The balance of the equipment, remaining CAT 789 trucks and four new Liebherr 9350 shovels, are expected to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2010 and the first half of 2011. The underground growth capital for developing the SB Zone and Stockwork Zone, as well as for delineation drilling and capital purchases, is estimated to be $38.7 million in 2010.
Boroo & Gatsuurt Capital
At Boroo, 2010 sustaining capital expenditures are expected to be $3.6 million, primarily for the mobile equipment component change-outs ($3.3 million). Growth capital is estimated to be $5.9 million, primarily for the expansion of the existing Boroo tailings facility ($4.9 million) to contain Boroo and Gatsuurt oxide tailings. These expenditures are based on operational needs and also assume the receipt of the required approvals for Gatsuurt.
At Gatsuurt, expected 2010 growth capital spending is forecasted at $16.6 million down from $38.6 million in the prior guidance. The $20.0 million reduction in growth capital relates to the deferral of the pre-stripping of the sulphide ores initially planned to be carried out in 2010 ($9.2 million), expansion of the existing Boroo tailings facility ($4.9 million) which has been reclassified from the Gatsuurt project capital to Boroo growth capital and the removal of the cost of the haul trucks ($5.3 million) for hauling ore from the Gatsuurt site to the Boroo mill as these will be sold to a third party for ore haulage. Minimal capital spending is planned on the Gatsuurt project going forward while waiting for the final approvals to commence mining (See 'Other Corporate Developments - Mongolia - Mongolian Legislation').
The Company's planned phased approach to the development of the Gatsuurt orebody consisting of an oxide project component followed by a sulphide project component, has been delayed due to the delays in receiving the final approvals including the commissioning of the Gatsuurt project pending the resolution of the Water and Forest Law (See 'Other Corporate Developments - Mongolia - Mongolian Legislation'). The engineering and construction of the bio-oxidation facility, which is needed to treat the sulphide ores, will be restarted only after the approval to begin mining at Gatsuurt has been received from the Government of Mongolia. The Company expects that the capital for the development of the deeper sulphide ores at Gatsuurt will be invested only following successful commissioning of the Gatsuurt oxide project.
Administration
Annual corporate and administration expenses are estimated at $45 million, which represents an increase of $4 million from prior guidance due to higher stock-based compensation from the increased Centerra share price.
Production, cost and capital forecasts for 2010 are forward-looking information and are based on key assumptions and subject to material risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially and which are discussed under the heading 'Material Assumptions' and 'Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information'.
Sensitivities
Centerra's revenues, earnings and cash flows for the remaining three months of 2010 are sensitive to changes in certain variables and the Company has estimated their impact on revenues, net earnings and cash from operations.
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Impact on
Change ($ millions)
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Earnings
before
Costs Revenues Cash flow income tax
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Gold Price $50/oz 1.6 10.7 9.1 9.3
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Diesel Fuel (1) 10% 1.1 - 1.1 1.1
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Kyrgyz som 1 som 0.6 - 0.6 0.6
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Mongolian tugrik 25 tugrik 0.1 - 0.1 0.1
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Canadian dollar 10 cents 1.1 - 1.1 1.1
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(1) 10% change in diesel fuel price equals $5/oz.
Material Assumptions
Material assumptions or factors used to forecast production and costs include the following:
-- a gold price of $1,175 per ounce,
-- exchange rates:
-- $1USD:$1.04 CAD
-- $1USD:47.00 Kyrgyz Som
-- $1USD:1,300 Mongolian Tugrik
-- $1USD:0.80 Euro
-- diesel fuel price assumption:
-- $0.68/litre at Kumtor(i)
-- $0.90/litre at Boroo
(i)The assumed diesel price of $0.68/litre at Kumtor includes a customs export duty imposed by the Russian authorities on the diesel fuel exported to the Kyrgyz Republic. Russia imposed a customs duty of approximately $194 per tonne on gasoline and diesel fuel exports to the Kyrgyz Republic that went into effect on April 1, 2010. The Company estimates that the introduction of this new export duty will increase operating costs at Kumtor by approximately $7 million.
Diesel fuel is sourced from separate Russian suppliers for both sites and only loosely correlates with world oil prices. The diesel fuel price assumptions were made when the price of oil was approximately $82 per barrel.
Other important assumptions on which the Company's production, cost and capital guidance is based include the following:
-- political and civil unrest in the Kyrgyz Republic does not impact
operations, including movement of people, supplies and gold shipments to
and from the Kumtor mine,
-- grades and recoveries at Kumtor will remain consistent with the life-of-
mine plan to achieve the forecast gold production,
-- the dewatering and depressurization programs at Kumtor continue to
produce the expected results and the water management system works as
planned,
-- the remedial plan to deal with the Kumtor waste and ice movement is
successful, see 'Kumtor Mine - Remedial Plan to Manage the High Movement
Area' in the Company's December 7, 2009 news release,
-- no unplanned delays in or interruption of scheduled production from our
mines, including due to civil unrest, natural phenomena, labour,
regulatory or political disputes, equipment breakdown or other
developmental and operational risks,
-- certain issues at Boroo raised by the General Department of Specialized
Inspection ('SSIA') concerning state alluvial reserves, the production
and sale of gold from the Boroo heap leach facility and other matters
will be resolved through negotiation without material adverse impact on
the Company, see 'Other Corporate Developments, Mongolia, Mongolian
Regulatory Matters',
-- no further suspension of Boroo's operating licenses, and
-- all necessary permits, licences and approvals are received in a timely
manner.
Production and cost forecasts and capital estimates are forward-looking information and are based on key assumptions and subject to material risk factors. If any event arising from these risks occurs, the Company's business, prospects, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows could be adversely affected. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to the Company, or that are currently deemed immaterial, may also materially and adversely affect the Company's business operations, prospects, financial condition, and results of operations or cash flows. See the sections entitled 'Recent Developments' and 'Risk Factors' in the Company's most recently filed annual information form, available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and see also the discussion below under the heading 'Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information'.
Qualified Person
The new drilling results in this news release and on Centerra's website and the other scientific and technical information in this news release were prepared in accordance with the standards of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum and National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ('NI 43-101') and were reviewed, verified and compiled by Centerra's geological and mining staff under the supervision of Ian Atkinson, Certified Professional Geologist, Centerra's Vice-President, Exploration, who is the qualified person for the purpose of NI 43-101.
The Kumtor deposit is described in Centerra's most recently filed Annual Information Form (the 'AIF') and a technical report dated December 16, 2009 prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. The AIF and technical report have been filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The technical report describes the exploration history, geology and style of gold mineralization at the Kumtor deposit. Sample preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality control protocols used during the drilling programs at the Kumtor site are described in the technical report.
The Gatsuurt deposit is described in the Company's most recently filed AIF and in a technical report dated May 9, 2006 prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. The AIF and technical report have been filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The technical report describes the exploration history, geology and style of gold mineralization at the Gatsuurt deposit. Sample preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality control protocols used during the drilling programs at the Gatsuurt project are the same as, or similar to, those described in the technical report.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information
This news release and the documents referred to herein contain statements which are not statements of current or historical facts and are 'forward-looking information' within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Wherever possible, words such as 'believe', 'expect', 'anticipate', 'contemplate', 'target', 'plan', 'intends', 'continue', 'budget', 'forecast', 'projections', 'estimate', 'may', 'will', 'schedule', 'potential', 'strategy' and other similar expressions have been used to identify forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, Centerra's expectations regarding future growth, results of operations (including, without limitation, future production and sales, and operating and capital expenditures), performance (both operational and financial), business and political environment and business prospects (including the timing and development of new deposits and the success of exploration activities) and opportunities.
Although the forward-looking information in this news release reflects Centerra's current beliefs as of the date of this news release based on information currently available to management and based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, Centerra cannot be certain that actual results, performance, achievements, prospects and opportunities, either expressed or implied will be consistent with such forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Centerra, are inherently subject to significant political, business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information.
Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: risks relating to the recent political and civil unrest in the Kyrgyz Republic, risks related to the creep of ice and waste movement into the Kumtor open-pit, the resolution of issues at the Boroo mine raised by the Mongolian SSIA concerning alluvial reserves and matters relating to the suspension of the Boroo licenses in June 2009, the potential impact of Mongolian legislation prohibiting mineral activity in water basins and forest areas on the Gatsuurt project, the threatened termination of the stability agreement with the Mongolian Government in relation to the Boroo mine, the receipt of a final permit to operate the heap leach operation at the Boroo mine, fluctuations in gold prices, replacement of mineral reserves, reduction in reserves related to geotechnical risks, ground movements, political risk, nationalization risk, changes in laws and regulations, political civil unrest, labour unrest, legal compliance costs, reserve and resource estimates, production estimates, exploration and development activities, competition, operational risks, environmental, health and safety risks, costs associated with reclamation and decommissioning, defects in title, seismic activity, cost and availability of labour, material and supplies, increases in production and capital costs, permitting and construction to raise the tailings dam height and increase the capacity of the existing Kumtor tailing dam, the ability to renew and obtain licenses, permits and other rights, illegal mining, enforcement of legal rights, decommissioning and reclamation cost estimates, future financing and personnel and the receipt of all permitting and commissioning requirements for the Gatsuurt mine. In addition, material assumptions used to forecast production and costs include those described above under the heading 'Material Assumptions'. There may be other factors that cause results, assumptions, performance, achievements, prospects or opportunities in future periods not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. See 'Risk Factors' in the Company's most recently filed AIF and Annual Management's Discussion and Analysis available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
Furthermore, market price fluctuations in gold, as well as increased capital or production costs or reduced recovery rates may render ore reserves containing lower grades of mineralization uneconomic and may ultimately result in a restatement of reserves. The extent to which resources may ultimately be reclassified as proven or probable reserves is dependent upon the demonstration of their profitable recovery. Economic and technological factors which may change over time always influence the evaluation of reserves or resources. Centerra has not adjusted mineral resource figures in consideration of these risks and, therefore, Centerra can give no assurances that any mineral resource estimate will ultimately be reclassified as proven and probable reserves.
Centerra's mineral reserve and mineral resource figures are estimates and Centerra can provide no assurances that the indicated levels of gold will be produced or that Centerra will receive the gold price assumed in determining its mineral reserves. Such estimates are expressions of judgment based on knowledge, mining experience, analysis of drilling results and industry practices. Valid estimates made at a given time may significantly change when new information becomes available. While Centerra believes that these mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates are well established and the best estimates of Centerra's management, by their nature mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates are imprecise and depend, to a certain extent, upon analysis of drilling results and statistical inferences which may ultimately prove unreliable. If Centerra's reserve or reserve estimates for its properties are inaccurate or are reduced in the future, this could have an adverse impact on Centerra's future cash flows, earnings, results or operations and financial condition.
Centerra estimates the future mine life of its operations. Centerra can give no assurance that mine life estimates will be achieved. Failure to achieve these estimates could have an adverse impact on Centerra's future cash flows, earnings, results of operations and financial condition.
There can be no assurances that forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as many factors and future events, both known and unknown could cause actual results, performance or achievements to vary or differ materially from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Accordingly, all such factors should be considered carefully when making decisions with respect to Centerra, and prospective investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Forward-looking information is as of November 4, 2010. Centerra assumes no obligation to update or revise forward-looking information to reflect changes in assumptions, changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.
About Centerra
Centerra is a gold mining company focused on operating, developing, exploring and acquiring gold properties primarily in Asia, the former Soviet Union and other emerging markets worldwide. Centerra is a leading North American-based gold producer and is the largest Western-based gold producer in Central Asia. Centerra's shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol CG. The Company is headquartered in Toronto, Canada.
Conference Call
Centerra invites you to join its 2010 third quarter conference call on Friday, November 5, 2010 at 10:00 am Eastern Time. The call is open to all investors and the media. To join the call, please dial toll-free in North America (800) 935-1518 or International participants dial +1 (212) 231-2937. Alternatively, an audio feed web cast will be available on www.centerragold.com. A recording of the call will be available on www.centerragold.com shortly after the call and via telephone until midnight on Friday November 12, 2010. The recording can be accessed by calling (416) 626-4100 or (800) 558-5253 and using the passcode 21484134.
Additional information on Centerra is available on the Company's web site at www.centerragold.com and at SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
MDA and Financial Statements and Notes follow
Centerra Gold Inc.
Management's Discussion and Analysis ('MD&A')
For the period ended September 30, 2010
The following discussion has been prepared as of November 4, 2010, and is intended to provide a review of the financial position and results of operations of Centerra Gold Inc. ('Centerra' or the 'Company') for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2010 in comparison with those as at September 30, 2009. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the unaudited interim consolidated financial statements and the notes of the Company for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2010. This MD&A should also be read in conjunction with the Company's audited annual consolidated financial statements for the three years ended December 31, 2009, the related MD&A included in the 2009 Annual Report, and the 2009 Annual Information Form. The financial statements of Centerra are prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles ('GAAP') and, unless otherwise specified, all dollar amounts are in United States dollars. The Company's 2009 Annual Report and Annual Information Form are available at www.centerragold.com and on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval ('SEDAR') at www.sedar.com.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Consolidated Financial Results 2
Highlights 2
Three-Month Period ended September 30, 2010 Compared with the Three-Month
Period Ended September 30, 2009 3
Nine-Month Period ended September 30, 2010 Compared with the Nine-Month
Period Ended September 30, 2009 5
Mine Operations 10
Other Financial Information - Related Party Transactions 21
Quarterly Results - Last Eight Quarters 22
Other Corporate Developments 23
Critical Accounting Estimates 26
Changes in Accounting Policies 27
Status of Centerra's Transition to International Financial Reporting
Standards ('IFRS') 28
Outlook for 2010 33
Non-GAAP Measures 39
Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information 41
Consolidated Financial Results
Centerra's consolidated financial results for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2010 reflect 100% interests in the Kumtor and Boroo mines, and the Gatsuurt project.
Highlights
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Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30 September 30
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Financial and
Oper