Q4 2025 Hudbay Minerals Inc Earnings Call
Speaker #3: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for standing by. Welcome to the Hudbay Fourth Quarter 2025 Results Conference Call. At this time, all participants are in listen-only mode, and following the presentation, we will conduct a question-and-answer session.
Operator: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for standing by. Welcome to the Hudbay Q4 2025 Results Conference Call. At this time, all participants are in listen-only mode, and following the presentation, we will conduct a question-and-answer session. To join the question queue, you may press Star then one on your telephone keypad. You will hear a tone acknowledging your request. Should you need assistance during the conference call, you may reach an operator by pressing Star then zero. I would like to remind everyone that this conference call is being recorded today, 20 February, at 11:00AM Eastern Time. I would now like to turn the conference over to Candace Brûlé, Vice President, Capital Markets and Corporate Affairs. Please go ahead.
Speaker #3: To join the question queue, you may press star, then 1, on your telephone keypad. You'll hear a tone acknowledging your request. Should you need assistance during the conference call, you may reach an operator by pressing star, then 0.
Speaker #3: I would like to remind everyone that this conference call is being recorded today, February 20th, at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time. I would now like to turn the conference over to Candace Brule, Vice President, Capital Markets and Corporate Affairs.
Speaker #3: Please go ahead.
Speaker #4: Thank you, operator. Good morning, and welcome to Hudbay's fourth quarter and full year 2025 results conference call. Hudbay's financial results were issued this morning and are available on our website at www.hudbay.com.
Candace Brûlé: Thank you, operator. Good morning, and welcome to Hudbay's Q4 and full year 2025 results conference call. Hudbay's financial results were issued this morning and are available on our website at www.hudbay.com. A corresponding PowerPoint presentation is available in the Investor Events section of our website, and we encourage you to refer to it during this call. Our presenters today are Peter Kukielski, Hudbay's President and Chief Executive Officer, and Eugene Lei, our Chief Financial Officer. Accompanying Peter and Eugene for the Q&A portion of the call will be Andre Lauzon, our Chief Operating Officer. Please note that comments made on today's call may contain forward-looking information, and this information, by its nature, is subject to risks and uncertainties, and as such, actual results may differ materially from the views expressed today.
Speaker #4: A corresponding PowerPoint presentation is available in the investor events section of our website and we encourage you to refer to it during this call.
Speaker #4: Our presenters today are Peter Kukielski, Hudbay's President and Chief Executive Officer, and Eugene Lee, our Chief Financial Officer. Accompanying Peter and Eugene for the Q&A portion of the call will be Andre Lauzon, our Chief Operating Officer.
Speaker #4: Please note that comments made on today's call may contain forward-looking information, and this information, by its nature, is subject to risks and uncertainties, and as such, actual results may differ materially from the views expressed today.
Speaker #4: For further information on these risks and uncertainties, please consult the company's relevant filings on Cedar Plus and EDGAR. These documents are also available on our website.
Candace Brûlé: For further information on these risks and uncertainties, please consult the company's relevant filings on SEDAR+ and EDGAR. These documents are also available on our website. As a reminder, all amounts discussed on today's call are in US dollars unless otherwise noted. And now I'll pass the call over to Peter Kukielski.
Speaker #4: As a reminder, all amounts discussed on today's call are in US dollars unless otherwise noted, and now I'll pass the call over to Peter Kukielski.
Speaker #5: Thank you, Candace. Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us for today's call. 2025 was a transformative year for Hudbay as we achieved the third consecutive year of record financial performance.
Peter Kukielski: Thank you, Candace Brûlé. Good morning, everyone, and thank you for joining us for today's call. 2025 was a transformative year for Hudbay as we achieved the third consecutive year of record financial performance. We delivered record annual revenues of more than $2 billion, record annual adjusted EBITDA of over $1 billion, and record annual free cash flow generation of more than $380 million. Our diversified operating platform demonstrated resilience and enabled us to deliver our 11th consecutive year of achieving copper production guidance and fifth consecutive year of achieving gold production guidance. We also outperformed our twice improved consolidated cash cost guidance, demonstrating industry-leading cost performance. These achievements are even more remarkable considering the significant challenges we had to overcome with wildfire evacuations in Manitoba and social unrest in Peru last year.
Speaker #5: We delivered record annual revenues of more than $2 billion, record annual adjusted EBITDA of over $1 billion, and record annual free cash flow generation of more than $380 million.
Speaker #5: Our diversified operating platform demonstrated resilience and enabled us to deliver our 11th consecutive year of achieving copper production guidance and 5th consecutive year of achieving gold production guidance.
Speaker #5: We also outperformed our twice-improved consolidated cash cost guidance, demonstrating industry-leading cost performance. These achievements are even more remarkable considering the significant challenges we had to overcome with wildfire evacuations in Manitoba, and social unrest in Peru last year.
Speaker #5: We are delighted to have secured Mitsubishi as a premier long-term partner for our Copper World project in a precedent-setting joint venture transaction. This transaction enables us to unlock significant value in our copper growth pipeline, further solidifies our financial strength, and significantly reduces our share of future equity contributions for the development of Copper World.
Peter Kukielski: We are delighted to have secured Mitsubishi as a premier long-term partner for our Copper World project in a precedent-setting joint venture transaction. This transaction enables us to unlock significant value in our copper growth pipeline, further solidifies our financial strength, and significantly reduces our share of future equity contributions for the development of Copper World. Our prudent strategic financial planning and execution has enabled us to achieve our balance sheet deleveraging goals ahead of schedule and lowered our cost of capital. We now have the financial flexibility to sanction Copper World in 2026, embark on generational investments in our operating portfolio, and commence increases in shareholder returns with our first-ever dividend increase as part of our holistic capital allocation framework. This will allow us to continue to deliver attractive growth and maximize long-term risk-adjusted returns for our stakeholders.
Speaker #5: Our prudent, strategic financial planning and execution has enabled us to achieve our balance sheet de-leveraging goals ahead of schedule and lowered our cost of capital.
Speaker #5: We now have the financial flexibility to sanction Copper World in 2026, embark on generational investments in our operating portfolio, and commence increases in shareholder returns with our first-ever dividend increase as part of our holistic capital allocation framework.
Speaker #5: This will allow us to continue to deliver attractive growth and maximize long-term risk-adjusted returns for our stakeholders. Flight 4 provides an overview of our fourth-quarter operational and financial performance.
Peter Kukielski: Slide 4 provides an overview of our Q4 operational and financial performance. Q4 underscored our commitment to operational excellence with standout performance in Peru, driven by high-grade Pampacancha ore, record monthly throughput achieved at the New Britannia mill in Manitoba, and the successful completion of the SAG mill feed system in British Columbia. We achieved $733 million in record revenues and $386 million in record Adjusted EBITDA during Q4. We produced 33,000 tons of copper and 84,000 ounces of gold in the quarter, despite an 8-day power outage in Manitoba and lower throughput levels in British Columbia. Our operations in Peru had a strong finish to the year with a final quarter of Pampacancha mining activities.
Speaker #5: The fourth quarter underscored our commitment to operational excellence, with standout performance in Peru driven by high-grade Pampacancha ore, record monthly throughput achieved at the New Britannia Mill in Manitoba, and a successful completion of the SAG mill feed system in British Columbia.
Speaker #5: We achieved $733 million in record revenues and $386 million in record adjusted EBITDA during the fourth quarter. We produced 33,000 tons of copper and 84,000 ounces of gold in the quarter, despite an eight-day power outage in Manitoba and lower throughput levels in British Columbia.
Speaker #5: Our operations in Peru had a strong finish to the year with a final quarter of Pampacancha mining activities. Fourth quarter net earnings were $128 million, or $0.32 per share, reflecting strong gross margins as a result of higher metal prices and $25 million received for business interruption insurance from the mandatory wildfire evacuations in Manitoba.
Peter Kukielski: Fourth quarter net earnings were $128 million, or 32 cents per share, reflecting strong gross margins as a result of higher metal prices and $25 million received for business interruption insurance from the mandatory wildfire evacuations in Manitoba. After adjusting for the insurance proceeds and other non-cash items, fourth quarter adjusted earnings was 22 cents per share. We continued to demonstrate industry-leading cost performance in the fourth quarter, with consolidated cash costs of negative 63 cents per pound and consolidated sustaining cash costs of 94 cents per pound. These costs significantly improved compared to the third quarter, primarily as a result of higher copper production and higher gold by-product credits. Turning to Slide 5, Hudbay's unique diversification in copper and gold, coupled with our relentless commitment to cost control, enables us to maintain industry-leading margins and deliver strong and reliable cash flows.
Speaker #5: After adjusting for the insurance proceeds and other non-cash items, fourth quarter adjusted earnings was $0.22 per share. We continued to demonstrate industry-leading cost performance in the fourth quarter with consolidated cash costs of negative $0.63 per pound and consolidated sustaining cash costs of $0.94 per pound.
Speaker #5: These costs significantly improved compared to the third quarter, primarily as a result of higher copper production and higher gold byproduct credits. Turning to slide 5, Hudbay's unique diversification in copper and gold, coupled with our relentless commitment to cost control, enables us to maintain industry-leading margins and deliver strong and reliable cash flows.
Speaker #5: Operating cash flow before change in non-cash working capital was $337 million in the quarter, a meaningful increase compared to the third quarter, reflecting higher copper and gold sales volumes from normalized operations after the temporary interruptions and higher metal prices.
Peter Kukielski: Operating cash flow before change in non-cash working capital was $337 million in the quarter, a meaningful increase compared to Q3, reflecting higher copper and gold sales volumes from normalized operations after the temporary interruptions and higher metal prices. After accounting for the capital investments to sustain production, we generated $228 million in free cash flow during the quarter, bringing annual free cash flow to $388 million in 2025, and achieving new quarterly and annual record levels. While the majority of revenues continue to be derived from copper, revenue from gold continues to represent a growing portion of total revenues, with 41% of gold revenues in Q4.
Speaker #5: After accounting for the capital investments to sustain production, we generated $228 million in free cash flow during the quarter, bringing annual free cash flow to $388 million in 2025 and achieving new quarterly and annual record levels.
Speaker #5: While the majority of revenues continue to be derived from copper, revenue from gold continues to represent a growing portion of total revenues, with 41% of revenues from gold in the fourth quarter.
Speaker #5: Our de-leveraging efforts continued in the fourth quarter as we repurchased and retired an additional $39 million of senior unsecured notes through open market purchases at a discount to par.
Peter Kukielski: Our deleveraging efforts continued in Q4, as we repurchased and retired an additional $39 million of senior unsecured notes through open market purchases at a discount to par. We are proud to say that since the end of 2024, we have reduced our long-term debt by $185 million, bringing our total debt levels to $1 billion today. We ended the quarter with total liquidity of $994 million, including $569 million in cash and cash equivalents, and undrawn availability of $425 million under our revolving credit facilities. Our net debt to EBITDA ratio further improved to 0.4 times at the end of December.
Speaker #5: We are proud to say that, since the end of 2024, we have reduced our long-term debt by $185 million, bringing our total debt levels to $1 billion today.
Speaker #5: We ended the quarter with total liquidity of $994 million, including $569 million in cash and cash equivalents, and undrawn availability of $425 million under our revolving credit facilities.
Speaker #5: Our net debt-to-EBITDA ratio further improved to 0.4 times at the end of December. After year-end, our cash and cash equivalents balance increased to $992 million with the closing of the Copper World joint venture transaction in early January.
Peter Kukielski: After year-end, our cash and cash equivalents balance increased to $992 million, with the closing of the Copper World joint venture transaction in early January. This increases our adjusted total liquidity to over $1.4 billion and further lowers our net leverage ratio to 0 times. This financial transformation demonstrates the benefits of our diversified operating platform, industry-leading costs, and prudent balance sheet management. We are extremely well positioned to prudently reinvest in our portfolio of attractive, high-return brownfield and greenfield opportunities to drive production growth and long-term value creation. In Peru, we exceeded the top end of the annual gold production guidance range and achieved the copper production guidance range, despite the impact of a temporary operational interruption due to social unrest, as shown on slide 6.
Speaker #5: This increases our adjusted total liquidity to over $1.4 billion and further lowers our net leverage ratio to zero times. This financial transformation demonstrates the benefits of our diversified operating platform, industry-leading costs and prudent balance sheet management.
Speaker #5: We are extremely well positioned to prudently reinvest in our portfolio of attractive, high-return brownfield and greenfield opportunities to drive production growth and long-term value creation.
Speaker #5: In Peru, we exceeded the top end of the annual gold production guidance range and achieved the copper production guidance range, despite the impact of a temporary operational interruption due to social unrest, as shown on slide 6.
Speaker #5: Our Peru operations had the strongest quarter of the year in the fourth quarter, as we continued to see strong copper and gold grades from Pampacancha and reprocessed less ore from low-grade stockpiles compared to the prior quarter.
Peter Kukielski: Our Peru operations had the strongest quarter of the year in Q4, as we continued to see strong copper and gold grades from Pampacancha, and we processed less ore from low-grade stockpiles compared to the prior quarter. We continue to optimize the mine plan with more ore mined from Pampacancha during the quarter than previously expected, resulting in the accelerated depletion of Pampacancha in late December as opposed to early 2026. The operations produced 25,000 tons of copper, 33,000 ounces of gold, 731,000 ounces of silver, and 325 tons of molybdenum during the quarter. Production of copper, gold, and silver increased by 38%, 25%, and 27% respectively, compared to Q3, due to higher ore milled, as Q3 was impacted by the temporary operational interruption.
Speaker #5: We continued to optimize the mine plan, with more ore mined from Pampacancha during the quarter than previously expected, resulting in the accelerated depletion of Pampacancha in late December as opposed to early 2026.
Speaker #5: The operations produced 25,000 tons of copper, 33,000 ounces of gold, 731,000 ounces of silver, and 325 tons of molybdenum during the quarter. Production of copper, gold, and silver increased by 38%, 25%, and 27% respectively, compared to the third quarter, due to higher ore milled as the third quarter was impacted by the temporary operational interruption.
Speaker #5: Mill throughput increased to 7.6 million tons in the quarter due to higher mill availability than the third quarter, partially offset by the scheduled semi-annual mill maintenance shutdown in the fourth quarter.
Peter Kukielski: Mill throughput increased to 7.6 million tons in the quarter due to higher mill availability than Q3, partially offset by the scheduled semi-annual mill maintenance shutdown in Q4. Mill's copper grades increased by 26% compared to Q3, with higher grades from Pampacancha and less ore processed from stockpiles. Milled gold grades also increased with a strong gold contribution from Pampacancha. Mill recoveries were in line with our metallurgical models based on the ore being processed. Q4 cash costs in Peru were $0.57 per pound of copper, decreasing by 56% compared to Q3, with the benefit of higher gold by-product credits, partially offsetting higher profit sharing.
Speaker #5: Milled copper grades increased by 26% compared to the third quarter, with higher grades from Pampacancha and less ore processed from stockpiles. Milled gold grades also increased, with a strong gold contribution from Pampacancha.
Speaker #5: Mill recoveries were in line with our metallurgical models based on the ore being processed. Fourth quarter cash cost in Peru was $0.57 per pound of copper, decreasing by 56% compared to the third quarter, with a benefit of higher gold by-product credits partially offsetting higher profit sharing.
Speaker #5: Full-year cash cost in Peru outperformed the low end of the guidance range and improved by 8% from 2024 due to lower treatment and refining charges and higher byproduct credits.
Peter Kukielski: Full-year cash costs in Peru outperformed the low end of the guidance range and improved by 8% from 2024 due to lower treatment and refining charges and higher by-product credits. Q4 metal sold was higher than the prior quarter, as some copper concentrate sales in the Q3 were impacted by ocean swells and were deferred to the Q4. While copper concentrate inventory levels normalized at the end of last year, there were elevated levels of precious metals contained in the inventory concentrate due to a higher portion of Pampacancha production in the second half of the year, resulting in a shift of some precious metal sales from December 2025 to 2026.
Speaker #5: Fourth quarter metal sold was higher than the prior quarter, as some copper concentrate sales in the third quarter were impacted by ocean swells and were deferred to the fourth quarter.
Speaker #5: While copper concentrate inventory levels normalized at the end of last year, there were elevated levels of precious metals contained in the inventory concentrate due to a higher portion of Pampacancha production in the second half of the year, resulting in a shift of some precious metals sales from December 2025 to 2026.
Speaker #5: We continue to advance the installation of pebble crushers in Peru to increase mill throughput rates starting in the second half of 2026, which will allow Constancia to deliver steady annual copper production despite lower grades from the depletion of Pumpakancha.
Peter Kukielski: We continue to advance the installation of pebble crushers in Peru to increase mill throughput rates starting in the second half of 2026, which will allow Constancia to deliver steady annual copper production despite lower grades from the depletion of Pampacancha. These efforts align with the Peru Ministry of Energy and Mines regulatory change to allow mining companies to operate up to 10% above permitted levels. Turning to Slide 7, our Manitoba operations were previously tracking within the 2025 guidance ranges, despite the wildfire impacts. However, as a result of the weather-related power outage in October and the subsequent ramp-up period required to restore full operations, gold and zinc production fell below the low end of the respective ranges. That said, we successfully achieved guidance for copper and silver despite these interruptions.
Speaker #5: These efforts align with the Peru Ministry of Energy and Mines’ regulatory change to allow mining companies to operate up to 10% above permitted levels.
Speaker #5: Turning to slide 7, our Manitoba operations were previously tracking within the 2025 guidance ranges despite the wildfire impacts. However, as a result of the weather-related power outage in October and the subsequent ramp-up period required to restore full operations, gold and zinc production fell below the low end of the respective ranges.
Speaker #5: That said, we successfully achieved guidance for copper and silver despite these interruptions. Performance in the fourth quarter demonstrates that our Manitoba operations have normalized following the significant wildfire disruptions.
Peter Kukielski: Performance in Q4 demonstrates that our Manitoba operations have normalized following the significant wildfire disruptions. Our Manitoba operations produced 47,000 ounces of gold, 3,000 tons of copper, 6,000 tons of zinc, and 214,000 ounces of silver in the quarter. Full-year production in Manitoba was lower than the prior year as a result of production deferrals from the wildfires, the weather-related power outage, and associated ramp-up to restore full operations. However, we continued to focus on safety and achieved a 15% reduction in total recordable injury frequency in 2025. At the Lalor mine, the focus was on stabilizing production after resuming operations. Lalor averaged over 4,200 tons per operating day in the quarter, strategically prioritizing mining from the gold zones to ensure feed for the New Britannia Mill.
Speaker #5: Our Manitoba operations produced 47,000 ounces of gold, 3,000 tons of copper, 6,000 tons of zinc, and 214,000 ounces of silver in the quarter. Full-year production in Manitoba was lower than the prior year as a result of production deferrals from the wildfires, the weather-related power outage, and the associated ramp-up to restore full operations.
Speaker #5: However, we continue to focus on safety and achieved a 15% reduction in total recordable injury frequency in 2025. At the Lalor mine, the focus was on stabilizing production after resuming operations.
Speaker #5: Lalor averaged over 4,200 tons per operating day in the quarter, strategically prioritizing mining from the gold zones to ensure feed for the new Britannia mill.
Speaker #5: Gold grades slightly increased compared to the third quarter, as we continue to improve ore quality and focus on prioritizing gold zones at Lalor. Consistent with our strategy of allocating more Lalor ore feed to New Britannia to maximize gold recoveries, the New Britannia mill achieved average throughput of approximately 2,300 tons per day in December, reaching a new monthly throughput record.
Peter Kukielski: Gold grades slightly increased compared to Q3 as we continue to improve ore quality and focus on prioritizing gold zones at Lalor. Consistent with our strategy of allocating more Lalor ore feeds to New Britannia to maximize gold recoveries, the New Britannia Mill achieved average throughput of approximately 2,300 tons per day in December, reaching a new monthly throughput record. Stall Mill continued to focus on process optimization and enhancing gold recovery initiatives, which resulted in achieving over 70% gold recovery from our base metal ore stream. The Stall Mill processed significantly less ore in 2025 compared to 2024, in alignment with our strategy to allocate more Lalor ore feed to New Britannia. The 1901 deposit delivered 6,600 tons of development ore in 2025 as the project progresses towards full production in 2027.
Speaker #5: Dole mill continued to focus on process optimization and enhancing gold recovery initiatives, which resulted in achieving over 70% gold recovery from our base metal ore stream.
Speaker #5: The Stall mill processed significantly less ore in 2025 compared to 2024, in alignment with our strategy to allocate more Lalor ore feed to New Britannia.
Speaker #5: The 1901 deposit delivered 6,600 tons of development ore in 2025 as the project progresses towards full production in 2027. During the year, the team focused on establishing 1901 underground infrastructure and haulage and exploration drifts.
Peter Kukielski: During the year, the team focused on establishing 1901 underground infrastructure and haulage and exploration drifts. Manitoba sales volumes in Q4 reflect a rebuild of inventory levels as operations normalized. Manitoba gold cash costs in Q4 were $705 per ounce, increasing compared to Q3, primarily due to higher overall costs in the quarter as operations normalized. Despite the production headwinds in 2025, full-year gold cash costs were $549 per ounce, a 9% improvement from 2024 and outperforming the lower end of the cash cost guidance range. The strong cost performance was supported by the prioritization of high-margin gold production over by-product zinc production. In British Columbia, we continue to focus on advancing our multi-year optimization plan, centered on ramping up mining activities and implementing standardized operating practices, as shown on Slide 8.
Speaker #5: Manitoba sales volumes in the fourth quarter reflect a rebuild of inventory levels as operations normalized. Manitoba gold cash costs in the fourth quarter were $705 per ounce, increasing compared to the third quarter primarily due to higher overall costs in in the quarter as operations normalized.
Speaker #5: Despite the production headwinds in 2025, full-year gold cash costs were $549 per ounce, a 9% improvement from 2024 and outperforming the lower end of the cash cost guidance range.
Speaker #5: The strong cost performance was supported by the prioritization of high-margin gold production over byproduct zinc production. In British Columbia, we continue to focus on advancing our multi-year optimization plans centered on ramping up mining activities and implementing standardized operating practices, as shown on slide 8.
Speaker #5: We produced 4.7,000 tons of copper, 4,000 ounces of gold, and 57,000 ounces of silver in British Columbia in the fourth quarter. Production was lower compared to the prior quarter primarily reflecting reduced mill throughput caused by unplanned maintenance on the primary sag mill.
Peter Kukielski: We produced 4,700 tons of copper, 4,000 ounces of gold, and 57,000 ounces of silver in British Columbia in Q4. Production was lower compared to the prior quarter, primarily reflecting reduced mill throughput caused by unplanned maintenance on the primary SAG mill. Full-year production achieved the guidance range for gold and silver, while copper production fell below the low end of the guidance range because of the impacts of the primary SAG mill unplanned maintenance and a higher amount of low-grade stockpiled ore processed throughout the year. Mining activities continued to focus on executing a three-year accelerated stripping program to unlock higher-grade ore starting in 2027.
Speaker #5: Full-year production achieved the guidance range for gold and silver, while copper production fell below the low end of the guidance range because of the impacts of the primary SAG mill unplanned maintenance and a higher amount of low-grade stockpiled ore processed throughout the year.
Speaker #5: Mining activities continued to focus on executing a three-year accelerated stripping program to unlock higher-grade ore starting in 2027. Total ore mined in the fourth quarter was 2.4 million tons, a 32% increase from the third quarter, as we optimized the mining sequence and enhanced maintenance practices, which increased mining rates to a targeted 300,000 tons per day in December.
Peter Kukielski: Total ore mined in Q4 was 2.4 million tons, a 32% increase from Q3 as we optimized the mining sequence and enhanced maintenance practices, which increased mining rates to a targeted 300,000 tons per day in December. To sustain this momentum, a new production loader was commissioned in January 2026, and a new shovel is currently scheduled for deployment in March. Mill enhancement initiatives continued in Q4, with the successful completion of the permanent feeder for the second SAG Mill in December. The second SAG Mill continued to demonstrate positive contributions to overall throughput in Q4. The mill processed 27% less ore in Q4 compared to Q3, as a result of unplanned maintenance on the primary SAG Mill to address localized damage to the feed end head.
Speaker #5: To sustain this momentum, a new production loader was commissioned in January 2026, and a new shovel is currently scheduled for deployment in March. Mill enhancement initiatives continued in the fourth quarter, with the successful completion of the permanent feeder for the second SAG mill in December.
Speaker #5: The second SAG mill continued to demonstrate positive contributions to overall throughput in the fourth quarter. The mill processed 27% less ore in the fourth quarter compared to the third, as a result of unplanned maintenance on the primary SAG mill to address localized damage to the feed end head.
Speaker #5: Operations were further constrained by elevated clay content in the ore and the planned decrease in feed pile to accommodate the construction and tie-ins for the second SAG expansion project.
Peter Kukielski: Operations were further constrained by elevated clay content in the ore and the planned decrease in feed pile to accommodate the construction and tie-ins for the second SAG expansion project. The team implemented several additional initiatives in 2025 to mitigate further challenges and build long-term mill reliability, including completing crushing circuit chute modifications, installing advanced grinding control instrumentation, and a redesigned SAG liner package. Despite throughput constraints, Q4 milled copper grades were 18% higher than Q3, driven by higher grades in ore mined. Copper recoveries improved to 78%, and gold recoveries saw a 7% increase over Q3. While the primary SAG mill continues to operate under a reduced load, it is being rigorously monitored ahead of a feed end head replacement in mid-2026.
Speaker #5: The team implemented several additional initiatives in 2025 to mitigate further challenges and build long-term mill reliability including completing crushing circuit chute modifications installing advanced grinding control instrumentation and a redesigned sag liner package.
Speaker #5: Despite throughput constraints, fourth-quarter milled copper grades were 18% higher than the third quarter, driven by higher grades in ore mined. Copper recoveries improved to 78%, and gold recoveries saw a 7% increase over the third quarter.
Speaker #5: While the primary SAG mill continues to operate under a reduced load, it is being rigorously monitored ahead of a feed end head replacement in mid-2026.
Speaker #5: The mill remains on track to achieve its permitted capacity of 50,000 tons per day in the second half of 2026. British Columbia cash costs and sustaining cash costs were higher than the prior quarter, largely driven by the ramp-up of mining activities advancing the accelerated stripping program, combined with the impact of lower production and byproduct credits due to the lower mill availability.
Peter Kukielski: The mill remains on track to achieve its permitted capacity of 50,000 tons per day in the second half of 2026. British Columbia cash costs and sustaining cash costs were higher than the prior quarter, largely driven by the ramp-up of mining activities, advancing the accelerated stripping program, combined with the impact of lower production and by-product credits due to the lower mill availability. Despite the headwinds in the second half of 2025, the business unit demonstrated strong cost discipline, enabling the operations to achieve the full year cash cost guidance range. I'm now going to turn it over to Eugene Lei to introduce our capital allocation framework. Eugene?
Speaker #5: Despite the headwinds in the second half of 2025, the business unit demonstrated strong cost discipline enabling the operations to achieve the full-year cash cost guidance range.
Speaker #5: I'm now going to turn it over to Eugene Lee to introduce our capital allocation framework. Eugene.
Speaker #2: Thank you, Peter. Turning to slide 9, Hudbay has a proven track record of prudently allocating capital to high-return brownfield investments, such as the New Britannia gold mill refurbishment project and the development of the high-grade Papa Concha satellite deposit.
Eugene Lei: Thank you, Peter. Turning to slide 9, Hudbay has a proven track record of prudently allocating capital to high return brownfield investments, such as New Britannia Gold Mill refurbishment project and the development of the high-grade Pampacancha Satellite deposit. Both these investments have delivered significant free cash flows and contributed to our recent deleveraging efforts. These deleveraging achievements have been part of our financial transformation over the past three years. Hudbay has moved from being overleveraged and capital constrained, to a preferred position where we can strategically allocate capital across the portfolio to maximize value and generate the highest risk-adjusted returns, creating long-term sustainable value for all our stakeholders. Three years ago, when I became CFO, we put in place our three prerequisites plan, known as the three P plan, outlining financial criteria needed to be achieved prior to sanctioning Copper World.
Speaker #2: Both these investments have delivered significant free cash flows and contributed to our recent deleveraging efforts. These deleveraging achievements have been part of our financial transformation over the past three years.
Speaker #2: Hudbay has moved from being overleveraged and capital constrained to a preferred position where we can strategically allocate capital across the portfolio to maximize value and generate the highest risk-adjusted returns.
Speaker #2: Creating long-term sustainable value for all our stakeholders. Three years ago, when I became CFO, we put in place our three prerequisites plan, known as the 3P plan.
Speaker #2: Outlining financial criteria needed to be achieved prior to sanctioning Copper World. We have successfully executed all of the financial elements of the 3P plan, and with prudent strategic financial planning over the last few years, we have completed the deleveraging of our balance sheet.
Eugene Lei: We have successfully executed all of the financial elements of the three P plan, and with prudent strategic financial planning over the last few years, we have completed the deleveraging of our balance sheet. We are proud to have the strongest balance sheet in more than a decade, and are one of the lowest debt leverage companies in our peer group. Together with the strategic investment by Mitsubishi, Hudbay is very well positioned to both sanction the Copper World project and embark on generational investments in our operating portfolio in 2026. These investments include allocating capital to high return brownfields projects at our three operating mines and advancing our world-class development and exploration pipeline. To provide transparency and continued financial discipline, we have implemented an enhanced capital allocation framework to provide a holistic approach around capital allocation decisions.
Speaker #2: We are proud to have the strongest balance sheet in more than a decade, and are one of the lowest debt leverage companies in our peer group.
Speaker #2: Together with the strategic investment by Mitsubishi, Hudbay is very well positioned to both sanction the Copper World project and embark on generational investments in our operating portfolio in 2026.
Speaker #2: These investments include allocating capital to high-return brownfield projects at our three operating mines and advancing our world-class development and exploration pipeline. To provide transparency and continued financial discipline, we have implemented an enhanced capital allocation framework to provide a holistic approach around capital allocation decisions.
Speaker #2: This includes growth capital reinvestments in the business through near-term brownfield projects, long-term greenfield projects, strategic investments, and exploration, while also considering debt repurchases, share buybacks, and dividends.
Eugene Lei: This includes growth capital reinvestments in the business through near-term brownfields projects, long-term greenfields projects, strategic investments, and exploration, while also considering debt repurchases, share buybacks, and dividends. Our capital allocation framework is embedded in our annual financial planning cycle. The framework assesses capital allocation opportunities against key elements, such as preserving a strong balance sheet, strategic fit for growth and diversification, accretion across key financial metrics, performing a rigorous risk assessment, and applying accountable investment governance practices. Consistent with our capital allocation framework and our recent financial transformation, we are now in a position to commence increases in shareholder returns in the form of a quarterly dividend. We are pleased to introduce a new quarterly dividend of $0.01 per share, which represents an annual increase of 100% over a former semiannual $0.01 dividend. This increases our total annual dividend amount to $0.04 per share.
Speaker #2: Our capital allocation framework is embedded in our annual financial planning cycle. The framework assesses capital allocation opportunities against key elements such as preserving a strong balance sheet, strategic fit for growth, and diversification, accretion across key financial metrics, performing a rigorous risk assessment, and applying accountable investment governance practices.
Speaker #2: Consistent with our capital allocation framework and our recent financial transformation, we are now in a position to commence increases in shareholder returns in the form of a quarterly dividend.
Speaker #2: We are pleased to introduce a new quarterly dividend of 1 cent per share which represents an annual increase of 100% over our former semi-annual 1 cent dividend.
Speaker #2: This increases our total annual dividend amount to $0.04 per share. Thanks, and I'll hand it back to Peter for our 2026 strategic objectives.
Eugene Lei: Thanks, and I'll hand it back to Peter for 2026 strategic objectives.
Speaker #3: Thank you, Gene. Our key company objectives for 2026 are summarized on slide 10. We continue to focus on operational excellence, advancing organic growth opportunities, and prudently allocating capital to deliver attractive high-return growth.
Peter Kukielski: Thank you, Gene. Our key company objectives for 2026 are summarized on slide 10. We continue to focus on operational excellence, advancing organic growth opportunities, and prudently allocating capital to deliver attractive high return growth. At the core, we intend to demonstrate continued operational excellence to enable substantial free cash flow generation, while maintaining industry-leading cost performance. We plan to achieve this by investing in high return brownfield growth opportunities across our operating platform, such as the mill throughput enhancement projects. We plan to prudently invest in our attractive organic growth pipeline to deliver long-term production increases.
Speaker #3: At the core, we intend to demonstrate continued operational excellence to enable substantial free cash flow generation while maintaining industry-leading cost performance. We plan to achieve this by investing in high-return brownfield growth opportunities across our operating platform, such as the mill throughput enhancement projects.
Speaker #3: We plan to prudently invest in our attractive organic growth pipeline to deliver long-term production increases. This includes completing the Copper World definitive feasibility study, progressing the new Ingebell permitting and development, advancing studies on our regional satellite properties in Snow Lake, executing our large Snow Lake exploration program to look for new anchor deposits, initiating a pre-feasibility study at Mason, advancing Flin Flon tailings reprocessing project analysis, and preparing for Maria Rena and Kabayuto exploration to provide significant long-term upside potential in Peru.
Peter Kukielski: This includes completing the Copper World definitive feasibility study, progressing the New Ingerbelle permitting and development, advancing studies on our regional satellite properties in Snow Lake, executing our large Snow Lake exploration program to look for new anchor deposits, initiating a pre-feasibility study at Mason, advancing Flin Flon tailings reprocessing project analysis, and preparing for Maria Reina and Caballito exploration to provide significant long-term upside potential in Peru. With a strengthened balance sheet and our first-ever dividend increase, we enter the year with unmatched financial flexibility. In 2026, we intend to maintain strong financial discipline by implementing our capital allocation framework to maximize returns. This will be achieved by continuing to reduce total debt, sourcing efficient project-level financing for Copper World, and evaluating all types of capital redeployment opportunities to generate the highest risk-adjusted returns. Turning to slide 11.
Speaker #3: With the strengthened balance sheet and our first-ever dividend increase, we enter the year with unmatched financial flexibility. In 2026, we intend to maintain strong financial discipline by implementing our capital allocation framework to maximize returns.
Speaker #3: This will be achieved by continuing to reduce total debt, sourcing efficient project-level financing for Copper World, and evaluating all types of capital redeployment opportunities to generate the highest risk-adjusted returns.
Speaker #3: Turning to slide 11, as I mentioned earlier, 2025 represents the 11th consecutive year in which Hudbay achieved its annual consolidated copper production guidance, which includes every year since Constancia declared commercial production.
Peter Kukielski: As I mentioned earlier, 2025 represents the 11th consecutive year in which Hudbay achieved its annual consolidated copper production guidance, which includes every year since Constancia declared commercial production. 2025 also represents the 5th consecutive year achieving our annual consolidated gold production guidance since establishing standalone gold production guidance after Snow Lake became a primary gold-producing operation. In 2026, consolidated copper production is expected to increase by 5% to 124,000 tons, using the midpoint of the guidance range. This is driven by higher expected production in British Columbia as a result of mill throughput ramping up to the target 50,000 tons per day in the second half of the year, partially offset by the depletion of Pampacancha in December 2025.
Speaker #3: 2025 also represents the fifth consecutive year achieving our annual consolidated gold production guidance since establishing standalone gold production guidance after Snow Lake became a primary gold-producing operation.
Speaker #3: In 2026, consolidated copper production is expected to increase by 5% to 124,000 tons, using the midpoint of the guidance range. This is driven by higher expected production in British Columbia as a result of mill throughput ramping up to the target 50,000 tons per day in the second half of the year, partially offset by the depletion of Pampacancha in December 2025.
Speaker #3: Consolidated gold production in 2026 is expected to decrease by 9% to 244,500 ounces as a result of the depletion of Pampacancha. However, unstreamed gold production is expected to increase in 2026 with higher gold production in Manitoba as operations normalize following the wildfires, and we continue to achieve strong performance at the New Britannia mill.
Peter Kukielski: Consolidated gold production in 2026 is expected to decrease by 9% to 244,500 ounces as a result of the depletion of Pampacancha. However, unstreamed gold production is expected to increase in 2026, with higher gold production in Manitoba as operations normalize following the wildfires, and we continued to achieve strong performance at the New Britannia Mill. In Peru, 2026 copper production is expected to be relatively consistent year-over-year at 82,500 tons, as higher mill throughput is expected to largely offset the grade decline with the depletion of Pampacancha. Peru gold production is expected to decline to 17,500 ounces with the depletion of Pampacancha.
Speaker #3: In Peru, 2026 copper production is expected to be relatively consistent year over year at 82,500 tons, as higher mill throughput is expected to largely offset the greater decline with the depletion of Pampacancha.
Speaker #3: Peru gold production is expected to decline to 17,500 ounces with the depletion of Pampacancha. The short-term mine plan changes in 2025 to optimize the mine plan during the period of social unrest resulted in reduced stripping activities in 2025, which has caused some grade re-sequencing in 2026. But we expect higher copper production in Peru in 2027 and 2028.
Peter Kukielski: The short-term mine plan changes in 2025 to optimize the mine plan during the period of social unrest resulted in reduced stripping activities in 2025, which has caused some grade resequencing in 2026, but we expected higher copper production in Peru in 2027 and 2028. In Manitoba, 2026 gold production is expected to be 200,000 ounces, reflecting a 15% year-over-year increase as the operations normalize after the unprecedented wildfires. We expect to see continued strong mill throughput at New Britannia, continue to operate above 2,000 tons per day in 2026, far exceeding its original design capacity of 1,500 tons per day. In British Columbia, 2026 copper production is expected to be 30,000 tons, representing a 26% increase from 2025 production levels.
Speaker #3: In Manitoba, 2026 gold production is expected to be 200,000 ounces, reflecting a 15% year-over-year increase as the operations normalize after the unprecedented wildfires. We expect to see continued strong mill throughput at New Britannia, continuing to operate above 2,000 tons per day in 2026, far exceeding its original design capacity of 1,500 tons per day.
Speaker #3: In British Columbia, 2026 copper production is expected to be 30,000 tons, representing a 26% increase from 2025 production levels. This increase will be driven by throughput improvements in the second half of the year.
Peter Kukielski: This increase will be driven by the throughput improvements in the second half of the year. We expect to release an updated 3-year production outlook with our annual mineral reserve and resource update in late March. Slide 12 summarizes our cost guidance. 2026 consolidated cash costs are expected to remain at historically low levels within a range of -$0.30 to -$0.10 per pound of copper. Cash costs this year will continue to benefit from higher gold production as a by-product and our continued focus on maintaining strong operating cost control across the business. Sustaining cash cost guidance for 2026 is expected to be within $1.70 to $2.10 per pound of copper, benefiting from higher copper production and higher by-product credits, offset by higher expected sustaining capital expenditures.
Speaker #3: We expect to release an updated three-year production outlook with our annual mineral reserve and resource update in late March. Slide 12 summarizes our cost guidance.
Speaker #3: 2026 consolidated cash costs are expected to remain at historically low levels within a range of negative 30 cents to negative 10 cents per pound of copper.
Speaker #3: Cash costs this year will continue to benefit from higher gold production as the byproduct and our continued focus on maintaining strong operating cost control across the business.
Speaker #3: Sustaining cash cost guidance for 2026 is expected to be within a dollar and 70 cents to $2.10 per pound of copper, benefiting from higher copper production and higher byproduct credits offset by higher expected sustaining capital expenditures.
Speaker #3: In Peru, 2026 copper cash costs are expected to be between $1.70 and $2.10 per pound, reflecting steady unit operating cost performance offset by lower byproduct credits with the depletion of Pampacancha.
Peter Kukielski: In Peru, 2026 copper cash costs are expected to be between $1.70 and $2.10 per pound, reflecting steady unit operating cost performance offset by lower by-product credits with the depletion of Pampacancha. Peru cash costs will benefit positively from lower treatment and refining charges and lower electricity rates with a new renewable power contract in effect. In Manitoba, gold cash costs are expected to be between $500 and $800 per ounce in 2026, remaining at industry-low levels, driving strong margins at current gold prices. In British Columbia, copper cash costs are expected to decrease in 2026 to a range of $1.50 to $2.50 per pound. The decrease will be driven by higher copper production, higher by-product credits, and higher capitalized stripping related to the accelerated stripping activities.
Speaker #3: Peru cash costs will benefit positively from lower treatment and refining charges and lower electricity rates, with a new renewable power contract in effect. In Manitoba, gold cash costs are expected to be between $500 and $800 per ounce in 2026, remaining at industry low levels and driving strong margins at current gold prices.
Speaker #3: In British Columbia, copper cash costs are expected to decrease in 2026 to a range of $1.50 to $2.50 per pound. The decrease will be driven by higher copper production, higher byproduct credits, and higher capitalized stripping related to the accelerated stripping activities.
Speaker #3: Capital expenditures in 2026 include approximately $96 million of capital deferrals from 2025, higher growth capital spending as we reinvest in several high-return growth projects, and one-time sustaining capital expenditures.
Peter Kukielski: Capital expenditures in 2026 include approximately $96 million of capital deferrals from 2025, higher growth capital spending as we reinvest in several high-return growth projects, and one-time sustaining capital expenditures. Total sustaining capital expenditures are expected to be $435 million, and total growth capital expenditures at the operations are expected to be $140 million, excluding Copper World joint venture spending. The growth capital for Copper World is expected to be $135 million. In Peru, 2026 sustaining capital is expected to be maintained at $140 million, which includes about $20 million of deferrals from last year and $18 million in one-time heavy civil work projects, offset by lower spending on tailings dam raises.
Speaker #3: Total sustaining capital expenditures are expected to be $435 million, and total growth capital expenditures at the operations are expected to be $140 million, excluding Copper World Joint Venture spending.
Speaker #3: The growth capital for Copper World is expected to be $135 million. In Peru, 2026 sustaining capital is expected to be maintained at $140 million, which includes about $20 million of deferrals from last year and $18 million in one-time heavy silverwork projects, offset by lower spending on tailings dam raises.
Speaker #3: Growth capital in Peru of $40 million relates to the installation of two pebble crushers to increase mill throughput starting in the second half of 2026, and includes $13 million of capital deferrals from 2025.
Peter Kukielski: Growth capital in Peru of $40 million relates to the installation of two pebble crushers to increase mill throughput, starting in the second half of 2026, and includes $13 million of capital deferrals from 2025. In Manitoba, sustaining capital expenditures are expected to temporarily increase to $105 million in 2026, including $5 million of deferred capital, $20 million in one-time expenditures related to a project at New Britannia to lower nitrogen levels, and $12 million for an accelerated 1-year construction project for a dam raise at our Anderson Tailings Facility. Underground capitalized development at Lalor is expected to return to normal levels after reduced levels in 2025 from the wildfires. Manitoba growth capital is expected to be $15 million this year, related primarily to the development of exploration platforms and haulage drifts at the 1901 Deposit.
Speaker #3: In Manitoba, sustaining capital expenditures are expected to temporarily increase in 2026, including $5 million of deferred capital, $20 million in one-time expenditures related to a project at New Britannia to lower nitrogen levels, and $12 million for an accelerated one-year construction project for a dam raise at our Anderson Tailings facility.
Speaker #3: Underground capitalized development at Lalor is expected to return to normal levels after reduced levels in 2025 from the wildfires. Manitoba growth capital is expected to be $15 million this year, related primarily to the development of exploration platforms and haulage drifts at the 1901 deposit.
Speaker #3: In British Columbia, 2026 sustaining capital expenditures are expected to be $60 million and increase compared to 2025, including a $5 million one-time expenditure for the replacement of the feed end head of the primary SAG mill, as well as $13 million in capital deferrals from 2025.
Peter Kukielski: In British Columbia, 2026 sustaining capital expenditures are expected to be $60 million, an increase compared to 2025, including a $5 million one-time expenditure for the replacement of the feed and head of the primary SAG mill, as well as $13 million in capital deferrals from 2025. We expect to incur $130 million of capitalized stripping costs in 2026 related to the continued accelerated stripping program. BC growth capital expenditures are expected to increase to $85 million, including $10 million in capital deferrals, with the remaining capital related to early works and infrastructure development for New Ingerbelle. As we continue to advance Copper World towards a sanction decision, we expect capital expenditures to be $135 million, excluding post-sanctioning construction costs.
Speaker #3: We expect to incur $130 million of capitalized stripping costs in 2026 related to the continued accelerated stripping program. BC growth capital expenditures are expected to increase to $85 million, including $10 million in capital deferrals, with the remaining capital related to early works and infrastructure development for New Ingabel.
Speaker #3: As we continue to advance Copper World towards a sanction decision, we expect capital expenditures to be 135 million dollars excluding post-sanctioning construction costs. This growth capital has been largely funded by the proceeds from the Mitsubishi Joint Venture received in January 2026 and relates to feasibility study costs and continued de-risking until a sanctioning decision.
Peter Kukielski: This growth capital has been largely funded by the proceeds from the Mitsubishi joint venture, received in January 2026, and relates to feasibility study costs, and continued de-risking until a sanctioning decision. It includes $35 million of capital deferrals from 2025, and approximately $60 million for accelerated long lead items and de-risking activities. Post-sanction construction costs will be updated at the time of project sanction. Looking at exploration expenditures in 2026, we expect an increase in spending to $60 million as we continue to execute the multi-year extensive geophysics and drilling program in Snow Lake, as well as spending allocated to New Ingerbelle inferred resource conversion efforts. As part of our long-term growth pipeline, slide 13 summarizes the threefold strategy we are executing in Snow Lake as part of the largest exploration program in the company's history in Manitoba.
Speaker #3: It includes 35 million dollars of capital deferrals from 2025 and approximately 60 million dollars for accelerated long-lead items and de-risking activities. Post-sanction construction costs will be updated at the time of project sanction.
Speaker #3: Looking at exploration expenditures in 2026, we expect an increase in spending to $60 million as we continue to execute the multi-year extensive geophysics and drilling program in Snow Lake, as well as spending allocated to New Ingabel inferred resource conversion efforts.
Speaker #3: As part of our long-term growth pipeline, slide 13 summarizes the threefold strategy we are executing in Snow Lake as part of the largest exploration program in the company's history in Manitoba.
Speaker #3: The first objective is to execute near-mine exploration, including underground and surface drilling at Lalor. This past year, significant progress was made with the completion of the initial exploration drift at the 1901 deposit, which saw positive step-out drilling and delivered some zinc development ore to the Stall mill.
Peter Kukielski: The first objective is to execute near mine exploration, including underground and surface drilling at Lalor. This past year, significant progress was made with the completion of the initial exploration drift at the 1901 Deposit, which saw positive step-out drilling and delivered some zinc development ore to the Stall Lake mill. Underground drilling is planned for 1901 from the new exploration drift to upgrade and expand the mineral reserve and resource estimates. Activities at 1901 over the next two years will focus on exploration, definition drilling, ore body access, and establishing critical infrastructure for full production in 2027. We also plan to complete underground and surface drilling at Lalor to continue expanding mineral resource and reserve estimates. The second strategic focus area is on testing regional satellite deposits within trucking distance of the Snow Lake processing infrastructure, to identify potential additional ore feed to fully utilize the available processing capacity.
Speaker #3: Underground drilling is planned for 1901 from the new exploration drift to upgrade and expand the mineral reserve and resource estimates. Activities at 1901 over the next two years will focus on exploration, definition drilling, ore body access, and establishing critical infrastructure for full production in 2027.
Speaker #3: We also plan to complete underground and surface drilling at Lalor to continue expanding mineral resource and reserve estimates. The second strategic focus area is on testing regional satellite deposits within trucking distance of the Snow Lake processing infrastructure to identify potential additional ore feed to fully utilize the available processing capacity.
Speaker #3: In 2026, we plan to advance activities at many of our satellite deposits, including Talbot, New Britannia, and Rail, testing for both base metal and gold potential.
Peter Kukielski: In 2026, we plan to advance activities at many of our satellite deposits, including Talbot, New Britannia, and Rail, testing for both base metal and gold potential. We will touch more on Talbot, a highly prospective target, on the next slide. The third strategic focus area is on exploring our large land package for a new potential anchor deposit to significantly extend the mine life of our Snow Lake operations. In 2026, we will continue the ground electromagnetic survey and extensive airborne geophysics survey. In early January, we announced the signing of an amended option agreement with JOGMEC and Marubeni to expand the Flin Flon exploration partnership for 3 projects in the Flin Flon region, including Cupress, White Lake, West Arm, and North Star. Turning to slide 14.
Speaker #3: We will touch more on Talbot, a highly prospective target, on the next slide. And the third strategic focus area is on exploring our large land package for a new potential anchor deposit to significantly extend the mine life of our Snow Lake operations.
Speaker #3: In 2026, we will continue the ground electromagnetic survey and extensive airborne geophysics survey. In early January, we announced the signing of an amended option agreement with JOGMEC and Maribani to expand the Flin Flon exploration partnership for three projects in the Flin Flon region, including Cupris, White Lake, West Arm, and North Star.
Speaker #3: Turning to slide 14, in July, we commenced an extensive summit drill program at the Copper Gold Zinc Talbot deposit focused on expanding the known mineralization at depth.
Peter Kukielski: In July, we commenced an extensive summit drill program at the copper-gold-zinc Talbot deposit, focused on expanding the known mineralization at depth. Talbot is located within trucking distance of the Snow Lake processing facilities, making it an ideal deposit to potentially provide supplemental feed to our mills. As part of the initial drilling program in 2025, Hudbay drilled six holes to test the continuity of the Talbot deposit at depth, with all the holes yielding positive results and four of them returning mineralized intercepts with economic potential. The image shows a 3D view of the deep holes drilled at Talbot, confirming continuation of the mineralization at depth. As shown in the image on the slide, the drill results indicate that the mineralized footprint of Talbot has doubled.
Speaker #3: Talbot is located within trucking distance of the Snow Lake processing facilities, making it an ideal deposit to potentially provide supplemental feed to our mills.
Speaker #3: As part of the initial drilling program in 2025, Hudbay drilled six holes to test the continuity of the Talbot deposit at depth, with all the holes yielding positive results and four of them returning mineralized intercepts with economic potential.
Speaker #3: The image shows a 3D view of the deep holes drilled at Talbot confirming continuation of the mineralization at depth. As shown in the image on the slide, the drill results indicate that the mineralized footprint of Talbot has doubled.
Speaker #3: We have commenced the 2026 drilling program in January, with six drill rigs turning, including one rig focused on continuing to expand the footprint of the deposit at depth.
Peter Kukielski: We have commenced the 2026 drilling program in January, with 6 drill rigs turning, including 1 rig focused on continuing to expand the footprint of the deposit at depth. An additional hole provided a significant intercept of visible copper mineralization over approximately 20 meters, and assays are pending. This year, we plan to progress a PFS and prepare an updated mineral resource estimate utilizing our standard method that has a high reserve conversion rate. Turning to slide 15. Our Copper World project in Arizona continues to achieve key milestones to progress towards sanctioning later this year. The closing of the strategic joint venture partnership with Mitsubishi validates the attractive long-term value of Copper World as a top-tier copper asset and endorses the strong technical capabilities of Hudbay. Together, we will continue to advance this high-quality copper project and unlock significant value for all of our stakeholders.
Speaker #3: An additional hole provided a significant intercept of visible copper mineralization over approximately 20 meters, and assays are pending. This year, we plan to progress a PFS and prepare an updated mineral resource estimate utilizing our standard method that has a high reserve conversion rate.
Speaker #3: Turning to slide 15, our Copper World project in Arizona continues to achieve key milestones to progress towards sanctioning later this year. The closing of the strategic joint venture partnership with Mitsubishi validates the attractive long-term value of Copper World as a top-tier copper asset and endorses the strong technical capabilities of Hudbay.
Speaker #3: Together, we will continue to advance this high-quality copper project and unlock significant value for all of our stakeholders. With the closing of the transaction, Mitsubishi's initial cash inflow of $420 million will be used to fund the remaining feasibility study and pre-sanction spending, in addition to initial project development costs for Copper World once we sanction.
Peter Kukielski: With the closing of the transaction, Mitsubishi's initial cash inflow of $420 million will be used to fund the remaining feasibility study and pre-sanction spending, in addition to initial project development costs for Copper World once we sanction. Mitsubishi will also contribute the remaining $180 million within 18 months to complete its initial 30% stake and will continue to fund its pro-rata 30% share of future capital contributions. Copper World feasibility activities are underway, and we are on track for the completion of a definitive feasibility study in mid-2026. We have allocated growth capital expenditures in 2026 for accelerated detailed engineering, certain long lead items, and other de-risking activities, and we continue to expect to make a sanction decision in 2026.
Speaker #3: Mitsubishi will also contribute the remaining $180 million within 18 months to complete its initial 30% stake and will continue to fund its pro rata 30% share of future capital contributions.
Speaker #3: Copper World feasibility activities are underway, and we are on track for the completion of a definitive feasibility study in mid-2026. We have allocated growth capital expenditures in 2026 for accelerated detailed engineering, certain long-lead items, and other de-risking activities, and we continue to expect to make a sanction decision in 2026.
Speaker #3: We are very well positioned to build one of the next major copper mines in the United States, while continuing to maintain a strong balance sheet and reinvesting in other growth opportunities across our portfolio.
Peter Kukielski: We are very well positioned to build one of the next major copper mines in the United States, while continuing to maintain a strong balance sheet and reinvesting in other growth opportunities across our portfolio. Before we conclude, I want to take a moment to highlight the New Ingerbelle expansion permits that our Copper Mountain Mine just received and announced. This is a very exciting milestone for the British Columbia team as we expand growth optionality for Copper Mountain. The receipt of these permits is an important step to enhance the copper and gold production profile at Copper Mountain. It secures a longer mine life, preserves more than 800 jobs, and ensures continued economic benefits and long-term financial stability for the region. We received the Amended Mines Act and Environmental Management Act permits through the coordinated authorizations process managed by the British Columbia Major Mines Office.
Speaker #3: Before we conclude, I want to take a moment to highlight the New Ingabel expansion permits that our Copper Mountain mine just received and announced.
Speaker #3: This is a very exciting milestone for the British Columbia team as we expand growth optionality for copper mountain. The receipt of these permits is an important step to enhance the copper and gold production profile at Copper Mountain.
Speaker #3: It secures a longer mine life, preserves more than 800 jobs, and ensures continued economic benefits and long-term financial stability for the region. We received the amended Mines Act and Environmental Management Act permits through the Coordinated Authorizations Process managed by the British Columbia Major Mines Office.
Speaker #3: Throughout the permitting process, we proactively engaged with the local communities and the Upper and Lower Similkameen Indian Bands to ensure transparency. We recently finalized refreshed participation agreements with the Bands, reinforcing our commitment to strong Indigenous partnerships.
Peter Kukielski: Throughout the permitting process, we proactively engaged with the local communities and the Upper and Lower Similkameen Indian Bands to ensure transparency. We recently finalized refreshed participation agreements with the bands, reinforcing our commitment to strong indigenous partnerships. The New Ingerbelle permit ensures that we'll be able to advance this BC major project and extend our partnership with the local communities to facilitate additional growth investments at Copper Mountain and further add to our 99 years of successful operations in Canada. Concluding on slide 16, 2025 demonstrated the benefits of Hudbay's diversified operating base, our unique copper and gold exposure, and our operating resilience. I'm extremely proud of the performance we were able to achieve despite the many operational interruptions. Our continued focus on cost control enables us to maintain industry-leading margins and deliver strong and stable cash flows.
Speaker #3: The new Ingabel permit ensures that we'll be able to advance this BC major project and extend our partnership with the local communities to facilitate additional growth investments at Copper Mountain, and further add to our 99 years of successful operations in Canada.
Speaker #3: Concluding on slide 16, 2025 demonstrated the benefits of Hudbay's diversified operating base: our unique copper and gold exposure, and our operating resilience. I'm extremely proud of the performance we were able to achieve despite the many operational interruptions.
Speaker #3: Our continued focus on cost control enables us to maintain industry-leading margins and deliver strong and stable cash flows. Once Copper World is in production, we expect our annual copper production to grow by more than 50% from current levels.
Peter Kukielski: Once Copper World is in production, we expect our annual copper production to grow by more than 50% from current levels. This will reinforce our position as one of the largest Americas-focused copper producers, with a well-balanced and geographically diversified portfolio of assets. Our expected production will be weighted approximately 1/3 each in Canada, the United States, and Peru, and further enhanced Hudbay's exposure to copper, representing more than 70% of consolidated production and revenue. I have no doubt that we will continue to see more transformations as we execute on our growth strategy and prudently invest in our world-class pipeline to deliver the highest risk-adjusted returns for our stakeholders. And with that, we're pleased to take your questions.
Speaker #3: This will reinforce our position as one of the largest Americas-focused copper producers, with a well-balanced and geographically diversified portfolio of assets. Our expected production will be weighted approximately one-third each in Canada, the United States, and Peru, and will further enhance Hudbay's exposure to copper, representing more than 70% of consolidated production and revenue.
Speaker #3: I have no doubt that we will continue to see more transformations as we execute on our growth strategy and prudently invest in our world-class pipeline to deliver the highest risk-adjusted returns for our stakeholders.
Speaker #3: And with that, we're pleased to take your questions.
Speaker #2: Thank you, ladies and gentlemen. We will now begin the question-and-answer session. To join the question queue, you may press star then one on your telephone keypad.
Operator: Thank you. Ladies and gentlemen, we will now begin the question-and-answer session. To join the question queue, you may press star, then one on your telephone keypad. You'll hear a tone acknowledging your request. If you're using a speakerphone, please pick up your handset before pressing any keys. To withdraw your question, press star then two. The first question is from Ralph Profiti with Stifel Financial. Please go ahead.
Speaker #2: You'll hear a tone acknowledging your request. If you're using a speakerphone, please pick up your handset before pressing any keys. To withdraw your question, press star then two.
Speaker #2: The first question is from Ralph Profiti with Stifel Financial. Please go ahead.
Speaker #3: Thank you, Operator. And thanks for taking my questions. Peter and Eugene, there are a couple of allocation frameworks. This is coming at a time when we're seeing the biggest spread between actual metal prices and spot metal prices and consensus metal prices. When you talk a little bit about some of the commodity price scenarios, I'm just wondering, how would you characterize your approach versus the past on some of the scenario analysis that you're doing? And how are you going to balance crowding out versus opportunities, versus metal prices being used, versus buy versus build context?
Ralph Profiti: Thank you, operator, and thanks for taking my questions. Peter and Eugene, this capital allocation framework is coming at a time when we're seeing the biggest spread between actual metal prices and spot metal prices and consensus metal prices. When you talk a little bit about some of the commodity price scenarios, I'm just wondering, how would you characterize your approach versus the past on some of the scenario analysis that you're doing? How are you going to balance, you know, crowding out versus opportunities versus metal prices being used versus, you know, buy versus build context? I'd like a little bit on that, please.
Speaker #3: I'd like a little bit on that, please.
Speaker #4: Hi, Ralph. Thanks for your question. I think this is an ideal time to unveil this capital allocation framework because of the volatile markets that you described.
Eugene Lei: Hi, Ralph. Thanks for your question, and I think this is an ideal time to unveil this capital allocation framework because of the volatile markets that you described. So as you know, we have a proven track record of allocating capital to high return opportunities. That's what netted us the New Britannia gold mill, and then the Pampacancha investment, and that's achieved 25% IRRs over the past few years and helped us deleverage our balance sheet. Now, with Mitsubishi on board, that helps us fully fund the Copper World project. And so we're going to be able to go into the end of this decade having delevered the company, funded and built Copper World, and now have the opportunity to fund greenfield projects and brownfield, high return projects at each of our operating sites.
Speaker #4: So, as you know, we have a proven track record of allocating capital to high-return opportunities. That's what netted us the new Brit Gold Mill and then the Pompa Concha investment, and that's achieved 25% IRRs over the past few years and helped us leverage our balance sheet.
Speaker #4: Now, with Mitsubishi on board, that really essentially helps us fully fund the Copper World project. And so we're going to be able to go into the end of this decade having delivered the company-funded and built Copper World, and now have the opportunity to fund greenfield projects and brownfield high-return projects at each of our operating sites.
Speaker #4: When we run, and to best determine how to allocate that capital, running this process allows us to run various scenarios, use varying prices, and even opportunities to finance some of this growth.
Eugene Lei: When we run, and to you know best out determine how to allocate that capital, running this process allows us to run various scenarios, use just varying prices, and even opportunities to finance some of this growth. And so when we use this holistic approach, we're able to balance the growth aspects and prudently fund them, but also, while also keeping an eye to capital returns. And so, we're ramping into the first dividend increase in our company's history. It's nominal, but it's a start. And as you saw last year when we implemented the NCIB, you know, these options or opportunities are on the board to be compared with reinvestment in our portfolio. So, we're going to test these as these opportunities as they come.
Speaker #4: And so, when we use this holistic approach, we're able to balance the growth aspects and prudently fund them, while also keeping an eye on capital returns.
Speaker #4: And so we're ramping into the first dividend increase in our company's history. It's nominal, but it's a start. And as you saw last year when we implemented the NCIB, these options or opportunities are on the board to be compared with reinvestment in our portfolios.
Speaker #4: So we're going to test these opportunities as they come. As you know, we have a very skilled technical services team, and our operations are always looking for ways to enhance production and enhance mine life.
Eugene Lei: As you know, we're, we have a very skilled technical services team, and our operations are always looking for ways to enhance production and enhance mine life. We'll weigh those opportunities at varying prices to the balance sheet and have an opportunity to increase returns to shareholders once we've determined the optimal structure.
Speaker #4: And we'll weigh those opportunities at varying prices to the balance sheet and have an opportunity to increase returns to the shareholders, once we've determined the optimal structure.
Speaker #3: Helpful. I appreciate the descriptive answer. And if I can just switch more to a technical question, Peter, what is Q3 going to look like in British Columbia on the SAG rehabilitation work?
Ralph Profiti: Helpful. I appreciate the descriptive answer. And if I can just switch more to a technical question. Peter, what is Q3 going to look like in British Columbia, on the SAG rehabilitation work? What does downtime look like? What is tie-in time required? And just wondering what happens to sort of throughput in that scenario, in that quarter?
Speaker #3: What does downtime look like? How does it—what does tie-in time require? And just wondering, what happens to, sort of, throughput in that scenario in that quarter?
Speaker #5: Thanks, Ralph. I mean, great question. I think that, as I mentioned in the comments, the planned replacement of the feed head will be early in the third quarter.
Peter Kukielski: Thanks, Ralph. I mean, great question. I think that, as I mentioned in the comments, that the planned replacement of the feed head will be early in Q3. So, you know, we continue to operate pretty carefully in the interim, but we still expect the operations to stabilize and improve progressively through that period. There will be a project period of, I imagine, several weeks during which we replace that head, but I don't expect there to be anything abnormal that's not provided for in our guidance. But, Andre, do you want to perhaps elaborate on it a little bit?
Speaker #5: So, we continue to operate pretty carefully in the interim, but we still expect the operations to stabilize and improve progressively through that period. There will be a project period of, I imagine, several weeks during which we replace that head.
Speaker #5: But I don't expect there to be anything abnormal that's not provided for in our guidance. But André, do you want to perhaps elaborate on it a little bit?
Speaker #3: Sure, sure. So the team's doing an excellent job. The parts are procured. So we've cast four sections; two have passed QA/QC. And we have a team over there inspecting as we speak.
Andre Lauzon: Sure, sure. So the team is doing an excellent job. The parts are procured, so we've cast 4 sections, 2 have passed QA, QC, and we have a team over there inspecting there as we speak. Tentatively, as Peter mentioned, it's about a month of work. We'll be able to continue to run our SAG two at the same time, and the teams are working through the details of that. It's scheduled, like you said, at the beginning of Q3, which is probably straddling around July, August. We're looking for opportunities to pull that forward. We don't know exactly what that is right now. As you know, it's still they're inspecting, looking at shipping and all of the details of getting that in place.
Speaker #3: Tentatively, as Peter mentioned, it's about a month of work. We'll be able to continue to run our SAG-2 at the same time, and the teams are working through the details of that.
Speaker #3: It's scheduled, like you said, at the beginning of Q3, which is probably straddling around July, August. We're looking for opportunities to pull that forward.
Speaker #3: We don't know exactly what that is right now. They're still inspecting, looking at shipping, and all of the details of getting that in place.
Speaker #3: And so, as we get to the report next quarter, I think we'll definitely have a lot more clarity on the timing of that, as the opportunity of pulling it forward—if we're able to do that—is obviously ramping up the higher throughput sooner, which will improve what we're forecasting for the year.
Andre Lauzon: As we get to report next quarter, I think we'll definitely have a lot more clarity on the timing of that—like, the opportunity of pulling it forward, if we're able to do that, is obviously ramping up the higher throughput sooner, which will improve, you know, our what we're forecasting for the year. But right now it's scheduled at, on that end. Right now, as it stands, the back end of the year is probably about, call it 20-ish percent higher than what the front half is of the year on a total metal. So if you want to give that sort of cadence, but the improvement, if we can pull it forward a bit, and we'll, as we know, then that'll be a positive to the year.
Speaker #3: But right now, it’s scheduled on that end. Right now, as it stands, the back end of the year is probably about—call it—20-ish percent higher than what the front half is.
Speaker #3: Of the year on a total metal. So if you want to give that sort of cadence. But the improvement, if we can pull it forward a bit, as we know, then that'd be a positive to the year.
Speaker #5: Okay. Got it. Thank you for those helpful answers.
Ralph Profiti: Okay. Got it. Thank you for those helpful answers.
Speaker #3: Thanks, Ralph.
Andre Lauzon: Thanks, Ralph.
Speaker #1: The next question is from George Eady with UBS. Please go ahead.
Operator: The next question is from George Eddy with UBS. Please go ahead.
Speaker #6: Yeah, hi, team. Thanks for the call today. Can I ask, at Manitoba—just clarifying—the updated three-year production guide, that won't include any new drilling, will it?
George Eddy: Yeah, hi, team. Thanks for the call today. Can I ask at Manitoba, just clarifying the updated three-year production guide, that won't include any new drilling, will it? And secondly, just when we- when exactly in the year will we get the next tech report for Manitoba, potentially bringing in Talbot and some other satellites?
Speaker #6: And secondly, just when exactly in the year will we get the next tech report for Manitoba, potentially bringing in Talbot and some other satellites?
Speaker #5: George, thanks for the question. So, we haven't decided that we'll produce a tech report for Manitoba this year. A lot of what we're doing—I mean, the current technical report is still valid in terms of production at LAROR.
Peter Kukielski: ... George, thanks for the question. So, you know, we haven't decided that we're producing a tech report for Manitoba this year. A lot of what we're doing, I mean, the current technical report is still valid in terms of production at Lalor. And our thinking with respect to another, a revised technical report at some point, would be in order to bring in some of the other, the results of other drilling that we're performing in the region. But it's not determined yet when that would be. Andre, perhaps you could elaborate.
Speaker #5: And I'm thinking, with respect to another revised technical report, at some point it would be in order to bring in some of the results of other drilling that we're performing in the region.
Speaker #5: But it's not determined yet when that would be. André, perhaps you could elaborate.
Speaker #3: Yeah, sure. So it's a great question. I'd say there's so much going on in Manitoba right now, and it's on all fronts. So we've seen some positive success with drilling 17 Zone, the high-grade gold down plunge of LAROR.
Andre Lauzon: Yeah, sure. So it's a great question. I'd say there's so much going on in Manitoba right now, and it's on all fronts. So we've seen some positive success with drilling Seventeen Zone, the high-grade gold down plunge of Lalor. We now know the plunge direction, and so we'll be targeting an exploration drift to get to that area. The Talbot area is very exciting. You know, there's six drills going at site right now. About five of them are doing definition drilling to prepare, to be able to have that, call it, made in Hudbay re-reserve for that. So the teams are working actively on pre-feasibility studies to be able to understand how we're going to mine it, ramp versus shaft, all of those details in optimizing it.
Speaker #3: We now know the plunge direction, and so we'll be targeting an exploration drift to do this year to get to that area. The Talbot area is very exciting.
Speaker #3: There are six drills going at site right now. About five of them are doing definition drilling to prepare, to be able to have that—call it maiden Hudbay reserve for that.
Speaker #3: So the teams are working actively on free feeds ability studies, to be able to understand how we're going to mine it—ramp versus shaft—all of those details.
Speaker #3: And optimizing it. And to date, the drilling has indicated, like Peter had mentioned, doubling the footprint of what we know. And it's open in many directions still.
Andre Lauzon: To date, the drilling, you know, as indicated, like Peter had mentioned, doubling the footprint of what we know, and it's open in many directions still. So that's also very exciting. The gold, there is a ton of optimization going on right now around New Britannia. We're looking at improving our Flash Flotation. And what that allows us to do, like, although we have a permit at 2,500 tons per day, we're seeing some really high copper grades, which is great. And what we have to do is slow down the mill a little bit during when we're seeing those really high grades. And so the teams are looking on optimization there at New Britannia.
Speaker #3: So that's also very exciting. The gold—there's a ton of optimization going on right now around New Britannia. We're looking at improving our flash flotation and what that allows us to do.
Speaker #3: Although we have a permit at 2,500 tons per day, we're seeing some really high copper grades, which is great. And what we have to do is slow down the mill a little bit when we're seeing those really high grades.
Speaker #3: And so the teams are looking on optimization there at New Britannia. We have a SART plant coming in at the end of the year.
Andre Lauzon: We have a SART plant coming in at the end of the year, and that's also going to reduce our costs with reduction in cyanide, but also improvements on recoveries. We have some additional things we're looking at at Stall. And if I complicate it even more, as you know, New Britannia Mill is sitting on top of New Britannia Mine, and that mine for close to 20 years, about 1.5 million ounces. And we've since, you know, with the really run up in gold prices, you know, it probably wasn't on our radar for a number of years. And so now we have teams actively looking at putting together a plan like what do we actually have, and what's the potential? And there'll be a lot more to come on New Britannia Mine, so that's quite exciting.
Speaker #3: And that's also going to reduce our costs with the reduction in cyanide, but also improvements on recoveries. We have some additional things we're looking at at Stall.
Speaker #3: And if I complicate it even more, New Brit Mill is sitting on top of New Brit Mine. And that mine, for close to 20 years, had about a million and a half ounces. And we've since, with the really run-up in gold prices—it probably wasn't on our radar for a number of years.
Speaker #3: And so now we have teams actively looking at putting together a plan. It's like, what do we actually have? And what's the potential? And there'll be a lot more to come on New Britannia Mine.
Speaker #3: So, that's quite exciting. So, why I say all of that is, there's so many moving parts on how do you fit all of that into a technical report.
Andre Lauzon: So why I say all of that is, is there's so many moving parts on how do you fit all of that into a technical report? And so it's just around, how do you-- what's the timing to do that? And so I think we'll be able to give snippets, later this year around what does it start to look like. But to put all that in, we're very, very confident on, on sustaining, you know, about 185,000 ounce per year profile at a really good all-in sustaining, probably less than $1,200 an ounce, long into the future.
Speaker #3: And so it's just around how do—what's the timing to do that? And so I think we'll be able to give snippets later this year around what it is starting to look like.
Speaker #3: But to put all that in, we're very, very confident on sustaining about 185,000-ounce-per-year profile at a really good all-in sustaining, probably less than $1,200 an ounce, long into the future.
Speaker #3: And I didn't mention as well, we're looking at optimization of cutoff within the mine as well. And that also has the potential to bring low-cost capital, good grade ounces that were on the cusp before at $2,000 or so an ounce, now at much higher prices.
Andre Lauzon: I didn't mention as well, you know, we're looking at optimization of cut-off within the mine as well, and that also has the potential to bring low cost capital, good grade ounces that were on the cusp before at $2,000 or so an ounce, now at much higher prices. So we're looking at a lot of things, and so hold tight, I guess, is what I'd say, is there's going to be some really good stuff coming.
Speaker #3: So, we're looking at a lot of things, and so hold tight, I guess, is what I'd say, as there's going to be some really good stuff coming.
Speaker #5: If I could add, with some comments—in terms of catalysts, the three-year guidance will be released along with our reserve and resource update at the end of March.
Eugene Lei: If I could add with some comments. In terms of catalysts, the three-year guidance will be, will be released along with our reserve and resource update at the end of March, and that will show, you know, this extension of this higher gold production at Lalor and Snow Lake that Andre speaks of, at 185,000 ounces, well beyond kind of what was contemplated in the technical report. As Peter highlighted, we're looking at ways to daylight what would be the longer term profile. And we'll, with all the opportunities that Andre highlighted, we hope by the, by the end of the year, that we'll be able to catalyze many of those projects and be able to provide the market with this 5- to 10-year outlook at these new levels.
Speaker #5: And that will show this extension of this higher gold production at Lalor and Snow Lake that André speaks of at 185,000 ounces, well beyond what was contemplated in the technical report.
Speaker #5: As Peter highlighted, we're looking at ways to daylight what would be the longer-term profile. And with all the opportunities that André highlighted, we hope by the end of the year that we'll be able to catalyze many of those projects and be able to provide the market with this 5- to 10-year outlook at these new levels.
Speaker #5: And we think that'll be very value-creating for Manitoba and Hudbay.
Eugene Lei: We think that'll be very value-creating for Manitoba and Hudbay.
Speaker #6: Yep. No, that's super detailed and helpful, guys. Thanks very much. And maybe just one more, if I can sneak in—kind of similar—but Mason, like the comments about that in the release, a PFS, like, when could that be completed?
George Eadie: Yep. No, that's super detailed and helpful, guys. Thanks very much. Maybe just one more, if I can sneak in, kind of similar, but Mason, like the comments about that in the release. A PFS, like, when could that be completed, and will we see the outcomes, I guess? And any updates on a potential partner even there? Thank you.
Speaker #6: And will we see the outcomes, I guess? And any updates on a potential partner even there? Thank you.
Speaker #5: Sure, George. So we’re currently starting to work on Mason. We’re building the team. We’re kicking into sort of pre-feasibility study work. I would expect that we would complete a pre-feasibility study on Mason later on next year.
Peter Kukielski: Sure, George. So we're currently starting to work on Mason. We're building the team. We're kicking into some pre-feasibility study work. I would expect that we would complete a pre-feasibility study in Mason later on next year. For sure, we would not contemplate partnering Mason at this early stage, but as we progress through the pre-feasibility study, we would look at opportunities to do that, based on the work that we do. But partnering is not something that we're contemplating there right now.
Speaker #5: For sure, we would not contemplate partnering Mason at this early stage. But as we progress through the pre-feasibility study, we would look at opportunities to do that.
Speaker #5: Based on the work that we do. But partnering is not something that we're contemplating there right now.
Speaker #3: Yeah. It's the right time. It's the right time right now. Eugene mentioned our capital allocation framework and investing in different opportunities. It was somewhat parked for two reasons.
Andre Lauzon: Yeah. It's the right time. It's the right time right now. You know, Eugene mentioned about our capital allocation framework and investing in different opportunities. It was somewhat parked for two reasons. One, because our availability of capital to spend on doing that, because we have to do geotechnical drilling, hydrology, you know, getting all of the key things that really put a robust pre-feasibility together. And we were waiting for some clarity with the federal government, you know, around the placing waste rock and tails on federal land. That has now been resolved. And so with both of those in our back right now, we are ramping up, as like as what Peter said, and building the team to accelerate that project.
Speaker #3: One, because of our availability of capital to spend on doing that, because we have to do geotechnical drilling, hydrology, getting all of the key things to really put a robust pre-feasibility together.
Speaker #3: And we were waiting for some clarity with the federal government around the placing of waste rock and tails on federal land. That has now been resolved.
Speaker #3: And so, with both of those in our back right now, as we are ramping up, as Peter said, and building the team to accelerate that project.
Speaker #3: Because it is the next to Copper World. It's the next largest undeveloped copper deposit there in the US. It's a great project.
Andre Lauzon: Because it is the next Mexicali Copper World, like, it's the next largest undeveloped copper deposit there in the US. It's a great project. Yep, no, super helpful. Thanks, guys.
Speaker #6: Yep. No, super helpful. Thanks, guys.
Speaker #5: Thanks, George.
Peter Kukielski: Thanks, George.
Speaker #7: The next question is from Fahad Tariq with Jefferies. Please go ahead.
Operator: The next question is from Fahad Tariq with Jefferies. Please go ahead.
Speaker #8: Hi, thanks for taking my question. Maybe just on Peru, can you let us know what the latest is on the Maria Reina and Caballito permits?
Fahad Tariq: Hi, thanks for taking my question. Maybe just on Peru, can you let us know what the latest is on the Maria Reina and Caballito permits and what's happening there?
Speaker #8: And what's happening there?
Speaker #5: Yeah, absolutely. For sure, Fahad. There's been no change to the remaining steps for the drill programs, which includes the government's prior consultation process with the local community.
Peter Kukielski: Yeah, absolutely, for sure, Fahad. You know, it's, there's been no change to the remaining steps for the drill programs, which includes the government's prior consultation process with the local community. And given the environment in Peru right now, I think this process is likely delayed. Remember that this is an election year coming up. We've had a change in president, so the timelines are quite difficult to predict, as we've learned from Pampacancha several years ago. I think that, you know, the predicting, although we can't predict the permitting timelines, I think let's get through the elections. We're confident we will get the permit. I just can't tell you when it will be. But I am extremely confident that Maria Reina and Caballito play a big part in value creation at Peru in the future.
Speaker #5: And given the environment in Peru right now, I think this process is likely delayed. Remember that this is an election year coming up. We've had a change in president.
Speaker #5: So the timelines are quite difficult to predict, as we've learned from Pampa Country several years ago. I think that predicting—although we can't predict the permitting timelines—I think let's get through the elections.
Speaker #5: We're confident we will get the permit. I just can't tell you when it will be. But I am extremely confident that Maria Reina and Caballito play a big part in value creation at Peru in the future.
Speaker #5: But at the moment, I can't provide you with an accurate timeline.
Peter Kukielski: I, at the moment, I can't provide you with an accurate timeline.
Speaker #8: Okay. I understand. And then maybe just switching gears to Copper World. I know we're still waiting for the feasibility study, but just thoughts around the copper price assumption that you might be using, or how we should be thinking about CapEx relative to the $1.3 billion, which is the current estimate.
Fahad Tariq: Okay, I understand. And, and then maybe just switching gears to Copper World. I know, I know we're still waiting for the feasibility study, but just thoughts around the copper price assumption that you might be using or how we should be thinking about CapEx relative to the $1.3 billion, which is the current estimate. Thanks.
Speaker #8: Thanks.
Speaker #9: I can address the copper price assumption, and as you saw in the PFS, this is a very robust project. It generated close to a 20% IRR at $3.75 copper.
Eugene Lei: I can address the copper price assumption. And as you saw in the PFS, this is a very robust project. It generated a close to 20% IRR at $3.75 copper. It is the highest grade undeveloped copper deposit in the Americas. And as we update the pricing for the feasibility study, we'll be moving toward consensus prices, which is today, you know, moved from, moved in the area of $4.50 to $4.75 per pound of copper. We'll obviously do various pricing scenario analysis around those prices, but I would expect that it would be in that range at this moment.
Speaker #9: It is the highest grade undeveloped copper deposit in America. And as we update the pricing for the feasibility study, we'll be moving toward consensus prices, which today have moved from the area of $4.50 to $4.75 per pound of copper.
Speaker #9: And we'll obviously do various pricing scenario analysis around those prices, but I would expect that it would be in that range at this moment.
Speaker #3: Yeah.
Peter Kukielski: Yeah. And Fahad, on the CapEx side, I would say, you know, recall that the PFS was issued in October 2023, so two and a half years have passed. So of course, there's gonna be a little bit of escalation. There's been some tariffs introduced on key equipment that might be procured from outside the country, so we expect there to be some escalation, but we don't expect it to be material.
Speaker #5: And Fahad, on the CapEx side, I would say recall that the PFS was issued in October of '23. So, two and a half years have passed.
Speaker #5: So, of course, there's going to be a little bit of escalation. There have been some tariffs introduced on key equipment that might be procured from outside the country.
Speaker #5: So, we expect there to be some escalation, but we don't expect it to be material.
Speaker #3: Yeah. And different than the response for Maria Reina with the government, this is fully in our control to deliver the feasibility, and the team's doing an excellent job.
Andre Lauzon: Yeah, and different than the response from Maria Reina with the government, like, this is fully in our control to deliver the feasibility, and the team's doing an excellent job. Like, we're within 1.5% of our schedule, so we're tracking right now at about 67% out of about 68%. And so the team's doing an excellent job building a world-class feasibility, and so we expect it to come to FID at the times that we had forecast.
Speaker #3: We're within one and a half percent of our schedule. So we're tracking right now at about 67%, out of about 68%. And so the team's doing an excellent job building a world-class feasibility.
Speaker #3: And so, we expect it to come to FID at the times that we had forecast.
Speaker #9: And the collaboration with our JV partner, Mitsubishi, has been excellent. We've had our first JV board meeting. They're on site with all of the decisions and have contributed.
Eugene Lei: The collaboration with our JV partner, Mitsubishi, has been excellent. We've had our first JV board meeting. They're on site with all of the decisions and have contributed. So, for those that were worried that this would delay the DFS, it does not. As Andre said, we're right on schedule.
Speaker #9: And so, for those that were worried that this would delay the DFS, it does not. As Andre said, we're right on schedule.
Speaker #5: And sorry, Fahad. I'll just go back to the Maria Reina and Caballito question. I think I was saying I can't predict when it's going to be.
Peter Kukielski: And, uh-
Fahad Tariq: Okay, great.
Peter Kukielski: Sorry, Fahad, I'll just go back to the Maria Reina and Caballito question. I think, you know, I was saying I can't predict when it's gonna be. It's gonna happen, for sure. It's gonna happen, but it, you know, may not be this year, but it, you know, it's coming. And what I can say is that our communities and our partners are incredibly eager to get going on it. It's just a process that's gotta be followed, and we know how Peru goes, especially during an election year. It's still a great copper destination, will continue to be so. Just hold tight, it's gonna happen.
Speaker #5: It's going to happen for sure. It's going to happen. But it may not be this year, but it's coming. And what I can say is that our communities and our partners are incredibly eager to get going on it.
Speaker #5: It's just a process. It's got to be followed. And we know how Peru goes, especially during an election year. It's still a great copper destination.
Speaker #5: We'll continue to be, so just hold tight. It's going to happen.
Speaker #3: Yeah. And we've refreshed the team too, right? So, brand new, minted Vice President down there in South America—very familiar with the area—coming out of some of the challenges that we had through the summer with some of the communities.
Andre Lauzon: Yeah, and we've refreshed the team-
Peter Kukielski: Yeah
Andre Lauzon: ... too, right? So brand new minted vice president down there in South America, very familiar with the area. Coming out of some of the challenges that we had through the summer with some of the communities, we refreshed the team for Uchuccarco and Chilloroya, and so those are the people that will carry this through to the final finish line.
Speaker #3: We refreshed the team for Uchicarco and Chilla Roya, and so those are the people that will carry this through to the final, so.
Speaker #8: Great. Thank you so much.
Fahad Tariq: Great. Thank you, thank you so much.
Speaker #5: You're welcome.
Peter Kukielski: You're welcome.
Speaker #7: The next question is from Aris Wakadow with Scotiabank. Please go ahead.
Operator: The next question is from Orest Wowkodaw with Scotiabank. Please go ahead.
Speaker #10: Hi. Good morning. A couple of follow-ups. Your CapEx guidance for this year at Copper World is $135 million. Should we anticipate that that could increase if you FID the project in the second half of the year?
David Brown: Hi, good morning. A couple follow-ups. Your CapEx guidance for this year at Copper World, $135 million. Do you—should we anticipate that that could increase if you FID the project in the second half of the year, or will, or will that just start in 2027?
Speaker #10: Or will that just start in '27?
Speaker #2: FID. Copper world.
Operator: FID, copper for the-
Speaker #5: FID.
Eugene Lei: The CapEx guidance that we provided of $135 million is basically the feasibility study, plus the early works we need to continue to do to keep schedule for potential first production in early 2025. With the FID, we'll provide sort of the rest of the spend for the year, but I do not expect that to exceed the $420 million that we've already received from Mitsubishi. So if you think about sort of the funding, I would say that we would expect Copper World to be cash flow positive from a Hudbay consolidated perspective this year. The $420 million dollar contribution obviously came in January. We're gonna spend about $135 million leading into the FID decision.
Speaker #8: The CapEx guidance that we provided of $135 million is basically the feasibility study plus the early works we need to continue to keep schedule for potential first production in early 2029.
Speaker #8: With the FID, we'll provide sort of the rest of the spend for the year. But I do not expect that to exceed the $420 million that we've already received from Mitsubishi.
Speaker #8: So, if you think about, sort of, the funding, I would say that we would expect Copper World to be cash-flow positive from a Hudbay consolidated perspective this year.
Speaker #8: The $420 million contribution obviously came in January. We're going to spend about $135 million leading into the FID decision. On FID, the Wheaton payment becomes due—the first $180 million.
Eugene Lei: On FID, Wheaton, the Wheaton payment becomes due the first 180. And so, we expect to be in a very good position from a funding perspective. So that's why one of the reasons we carved out the Copper World JV spending from the growth CapEx of the company, because it's more than fully funded.
Speaker #8: And so we expect them to be very well positioned from a funding perspective. So that's why, one of the reasons we carved out the Copper World JV spending from the growth CapEx of the company—because it's more than fully funded.
Speaker #9: So that $135 million, that's basically all pre-FID?
David Brown: ... So that, that $135 million, that's basically all pre-FID?
Speaker #8: It would be pre-FID. It will be all pre-FID. But some of the spend would have been post-FID. So it's basically ensuring that we move the project along as soon as possible.
Eugene Lei: It would be pre-FID. It's all pre-FID, but some of the spend would have been post-FID. So it's basically ensuring that we move the project along as soon as possible, and we have the endorsement with Mitsubishi to proceed in this manner.
Speaker #8: And we have the endorsement with Mitsubishi to proceed in this manner.
Speaker #10: Okay, and then just shifting gears, I just wanted to clarify something you said earlier. Did I hear correctly that you're suggesting that you can maintain 185,000 ounces of gold in Manitoba for the next five to ten years?
David Brown: Okay. Then just shifting gears, I just wanted to clarify something you said earlier. Did I hear correct that you are suggesting that you can maintain 185,000 ounces of gold in Manitoba for the next 5 to 10 years?
Speaker #9: That's the goal.
Eugene Lei: That's the goal. And we'll be able to tell you that number for the next three years in with our three-year guidance. And the opportunity this year is to pull all of the projects that Andre speaks of, and catalog and put them in buckets so that we can talk about the long-term production horizon of Snow Lake, which is targeted to be at that level for the next five to 10 years.
Speaker #10: And we'll be able to tell you that number for the next three years with our three-year guidance. And our opportunity this year is to pull all of the projects that Andre speaks of and put them in buckets, so that we can talk about the long-term production horizon of Snow Lake, which is targeted to be at that level for the next five to ten years.
Speaker #10: Okay. And the end of March then update will just be the three-year guide, and then we'll have to wait for the rest after. Is that right?
David Brown: Okay. Then at the end of March, then update will just be the three-year guide, and then we'll have to wait for the rest after. Is that, is that right?
Speaker #9: More to come.
Eugene Lei: More to come.
Speaker #10: Okay, thank you very much. That's great.
David Brown: Okay. Thank you very much. That's great.
Speaker #5: Thanks, Aris.
Peter Kukielski: Thanks, Horace.
Speaker #7: The next question is from Emerson Seuss with Goldman Sachs. Please go ahead.
Operator: The next question is from Emerson Souza with Goldman Sachs. Please go ahead.
Speaker #8: Good morning, everyone. Thanks for the opportunity. So, I have two questions here. First one, just trying to understand, I mean, what is the pecking order of the projects that the company has right now?
Emerson Souza: Good morning, everyone. Thanks for the opportunity. So I have two questions here. First one, just trying to understand, I mean, what is the pecking order of the projects that the company have right now? I mean, there are a lot of stuff going on, so Copper World is obviously a priority, but then you have New Ingerbelle expansion, 1901 development deposits, Mason project right now. And also, just trying to understand here, what is the priorities apart from Copper World. And also on Copper World, just trying to understand here, if you guys could bring forward the concentrator leach facility that was expected by 2032, just because, I mean, you have been seeing US administration putting copper as a critical mineral.
Speaker #8: I mean, there are a lot of things going on. So, Copper World is obviously a variety, but then you have Inger Bell expansion, 1901 development deposits.
Speaker #8: Mason project right now. And also, just trying to understand here, what are the priorities apart from Copper World? And also, on Copper World, just trying to understand—if you guys could bring forward the concentrator leach facility that was expected by 2032—just because, I mean, you have been seeing the U.S. administration putting copper as a critical mineral.
Speaker #8: So, I think it could make sense, right, to bring that project forward so you can sell copper cathode domestically. And just a final question on Manitoba—just trying to understand here, how could the asset's economics profile change with this ramp-up in production?
Emerson Souza: So I think it could make sense, right, to bring that product forward so you can sell copper cathode domestically. And just a final question on Manitoba. Just trying to understand here, how could the assets economics profile change with this ramp up in production coming from 1901, Talbot, and et cetera. So would we still see the same level of all-in cash costs for the asset, or that could change in light of this new ore coming from those deposits? Thank you.
Speaker #8: Coming from 1901, Talbot, and etc. So would we still see the same level of all-in cash costs for the asset? Or could that change in light of this new R coming from those deposits?
Speaker #8: Thank you.
Speaker #5: Please, great questions, Emerson. Thank you. So in terms of priorities, you're absolutely right. Copper World is just such a transformational project for our company that it is a clear priority. In terms of the activities that are underway by the US business unit, and of course, it occupies a lot of attention from corporate management, from our board, etc.
Peter Kukielski: These are great questions, Emerson. Thank you. So in terms of priorities, you're absolutely right. So Copper World is just such a transformational project for our company that it is. So it's a clear priority in terms of the activities that are underway by the US business unit, and of course, it occupies a lot of attention from corporate management, from our board, et cetera. But it is a US business unit priority and a company priority. That said, as Eugene described in his words about capital allocation, given the company's situation, balance sheet-wise, the strength of our balance sheet going into this year, we do have capital available for the lowest risk-adjusted return projects at each business unit, and we want each business unit to push projects forward for consideration in that pecking order.
Speaker #5: But it is a US business unit priority and a company priority. That said, as Eugene described, in his words about capital allocation, given the company's situation balance sheet-wise—the strength of our balance sheet going into this year—we do have capital available for the lowest risk-adjusted return projects at each business unit.
Speaker #5: And we want each business unit to push projects forward for consideration in that pecking order. So yes, you spoke about New Ingerbell—we're super excited to have received the New Ingerbell permit yesterday.
Peter Kukielski: So yes, you spoke about New Ingerbelle. We're super excited to have received the New Ingerbelle permit yesterday. And of course, that will be a priority at, in British Columbia, once the SAG Mill 2, second SAG Mill project has been completed fully and ramped up, it will become a priority there. In Peru, of course, the priority is getting the pebble crushing circuit done and then looking forward towards getting permits whereby we could further expand production over there. Manitoba, of course, you've heard about what our priority is there. It's we're growing that whole asset up into something pretty amazing.
Speaker #5: And, of course, that will be a priority in British Columbia once the SAG-MIL-2, the second SAG-MIL project, has been completed fully and ramped up. It will become a priority there.
Speaker #5: In Peru, of course, the priority is getting the pebble crushing circuit done, and then looking forward to getting permits whereby we could further expand production over there.
Speaker #5: Manitoba, of course, you've heard about what our priorities are there. It's that we're throwing that whole asset up into something pretty amazing. So, in terms of your question with respect to the economic profile there, we would target and expect that the economic profile, with all-in sustaining costs, would remain roughly of the same order of, let's say, $1,200 or so an ounce.
Peter Kukielski: So in terms of your question with respect to the economic profile there, we would target and expect that the economic profile or all in sustaining costs would remain roughly of the same order, a bit of, let's say, $1,200 or so an ounce, because we don't have to develop any new infrastructure. Everything is close to infrastructure. And then with your question with respect to Copper World and concentrate leaching and bringing that forward, we, we certainly would consider bringing it forward, but we don't want to start construction of that facility while we're still building the Copper World Mine itself, because we don't want to divert the attention of the project team.
Speaker #5: Because we don't have to develop any new infrastructure. Everything is close to infrastructure. And then, with your question with respect to Copper World and concentrate leaching, and bringing that forward, we certainly would consider bringing it forward.
Speaker #5: But we don't want to start construction of that facility while we're still building the Copper World mine itself, because we don't want to divert the attention of the project team.
Speaker #5: But it may make sense, as we progress through construction, that we look at bringing it forward so that we can actually continue to utilize the same team that's actually building the mine out itself.
Peter Kukielski: But it may make sense as we progress through construction, that we look at bringing it forward so that we can actually continue to utilize the same team that's actually building the mine out itself. So I would say more to come on that. But so, Andre, would you-- anything that you would add?
Speaker #5: So I would say more to come on that. So, Andre, is there anything that you would add?
Speaker #10: I think you characterized it really well. It just feels like a $15 billion company. There are a lot of things going on in all areas, and lots of growth happening in each different business unit.
Andre Lauzon: I think he characterized it really well. It just feels like a $15 billion company. You know, there's a lot of things going on in all areas and lots of growth going on in each different business unit, and so they're; it's not. They're all competing for capital, but. But the way, like, as Eugene set it up earlier on, is we set ourselves up so that we can invest in all of the different areas. We have great projects in each of the different areas, and so it's just a really exciting time. And, yeah, there's a lot going on.
Speaker #10: And so it's not that they're all competing for capital. But the way that, as Eugene set it up earlier on, is we set ourselves up so that we can invest in all of the different areas.
Speaker #10: We have great projects in each of the different areas, and so it's just a really exciting time. And yeah, there's a lot going on.
Speaker #9: Maybe just summarize, Emerson. The budget for 2026 and the guidance for 2026 for growth capital includes funding for all of these projects already. And so they have been—they've gone through the process.
Eugene Lei: Maybe just to summarize, the budget for 2026 and the guidance for 2026, for growth capital includes funding for all of these projects already. So, they have been—they've gone through the process. These are the best projects that are in each of the business units, and they're accounted for. So, for example, there's $80 million of growth capital for British Columbia allocated to advance New Ingerbelle. For example, there's $40 million of growth capital allocated to Peru for the pebble crusher, and $50 to $60 million of exploration and development work in Manitoba for 1901 and exploration.
Speaker #9: These are the best projects that are in each of the business units. And they're accounted for. So, for example, there's $80 million of growth capital for British Columbia allocated to advance New Ingerbelle.
Speaker #9: For example, there's $40 million of growth capital allocated to Peru for the pebble crusher. And $50 to $60 million of exploration and development work in Manitoba for 1901 and exploration.
Speaker #9: So we are going to be able to build Copper World and fund advancements and increases in throughput business units to be able to come out of the decade with not only a new mine, but also refreshed and improved mines at three of our existing sites.
Eugene Lei: We are going to be able to build Copper World and fund advancements and increases in throughput and high return projects at each of our business units to come, to be able to come out of the decade with not only a new mine, but also refreshed and improved mines, at three of our existing sites.
Speaker #10: All right. Super clear. Thank you very much, guys.
David Brown: All right. Super clear. Thank you very much, guys.
Speaker #5: Thank you.
Andre Lauzon: Thank you.
Speaker #11: The next question is from Craig Hutchinson with GE Cohen. Please go ahead.
Operator: The next question is from Craig Hutchison with TD Cowen. Please go ahead.
Speaker #10: All right, guys. Thanks for taking the question. I just want to follow up on Eugene's comments and Orris's question on Manitoba. The extension of the production in the grade profile for gold for the next 5 to 10 years—is that being driven by resource conversion?
Craig Hutchison: Hi, guys. Thank you for taking the question. I just want to follow up back on Eugene's comments and Orest's question on Manitoba. The extension of the production and grade profile for gold for the next five to 10 years, is that being driven by resource conversion? Is it more just the exploration step out, or do you also include some mill throughput expansions there?
Speaker #10: Is it more just the exploration step-out? Or do you also include some mill throughput expansions there?
Speaker #5: All of those. All of those. So, we've been drilling and exploring around Lawler Mine for the last couple of years, right? And we've been pretty silent on what we've been finding.
Andre Lauzon: All of those. All, all of those. So, so there's, you know, we've been drilling and exploring around Lalor mine for the last couple of years, right? And, and we've been pretty silent on what we've been finding, but we've been getting success. And so part of that is a conversion of resource to reserve. Some of it's some new discovery. We talked about the satellites, so Talbot would be considered a satellite. There's a number of other ones in our portfolio. The real unknown is obviously New Britannia Mine, right? So the best place to find is right in the shadow of a headframe, and, like, like, that itself has, is a company maker. And, and so if you, if you, if you take all of that and then what you said is around the improvements. So we're challenging recovery. We're, we're up over 70% recovery at Stall Lake.
Speaker #5: But we've been getting success. And so part of that is conversion of resource to reserve; some of it's some new discovery. We talked about the satellites.
Speaker #5: So, Talbot would be considered a satellite. There are a number of other ones in our portfolio. The real unknown is obviously New Britannia mine, right?
Speaker #5: So, the best place to find is right in the shadow of a head frame, and, like, that itself is a company-maker. And so if you take all of that, and then what you said is around the improvement.
Speaker #5: So, we're challenging recovery. We're up over 70% recovery at stall. We're looking at it with, like I said, the SART process at New Britannia, which is in our project for the end of the year.
Andre Lauzon: You know, we're looking at it with, like I said, the SART process at New Britannia, which is in our project for the end of the year. Hot tailings in work as we, you know, we look at the opportunity to get even more from Stall Lake and even precious metal reprocessing from the tailings there. And then the Flin Flon one that, you know, that, that someone mentioned earlier on that we hadn't talked about. You know, we're, we're into the pre-feas depth level of our pre-feas. We've-- we're working on, and we're in the final stages of solving how to get the precious metals out of the zinc plant residue, and that is, like, the, the solution for the back end of the Flin Flon tailings.
Speaker #5: Hot tails, and as we look at the opportunity to get even more from Stall, and even precious metal reprocessing from the tailings there. And then the Flin Flon one that someone mentioned earlier on that we didn't talk about.
Speaker #5: We're into the depths of a few fees. We've—We're working on and we're in the final stages of solving how to get the precious metals out of the zinc plant residue.
Speaker #5: And that is like the solution for the back end of the Flin Flon tails. And the team's working on a really unique—but it's a process to convert pyrite to pyritide and run it through our autoclaves.
Andre Lauzon: The team's working on a really unique, but you know, it's a process to convert pyrite to pyrrhotite and run it through our autoclaves and then use the solution that we have for the zinc plant tail. So that's moving along quite well, too. And so yeah, I know there's a lot of gold to add to our portfolio from new discovery, all the way through to getting better at recovering it and bringing new deposits online. So yeah, it's an exciting few years out of us, for sure.
Speaker #5: And then use the solution that we have for the zinc plant tails, so that's moving along quite well too. And so, yeah, I know we have a lot of—there's a lot of gold to add to our portfolio from new discovery all the way through to getting better at recovering it.
Speaker #5: And bringing new deposits online. So, yeah, it's an exciting few years ahead of us, for sure.
Speaker #10: Great, guys. And just maybe on New Ingerbell, now that you guys have the permanent HAT, is that something that could positively impact your production in, say, 2028?
Craig Hutchison: Great, guys. And just maybe on New Ingerbelle, now that you guys have the permanent hat, is that something that could positively impact your production in, say, 2028? And is there much capital to bring that project into play?
Speaker #10: Is there much capital to bring that project into play?
Speaker #5: You're talking New Ingerbelle mine or the mill? So, New Ingerbelle.
Andre Lauzon: You're talking New Ingerbelle mine or the mill? So it's New Ingerbelle-
Speaker #10: New Inger Bell. The permits.
Craig Hutchison: New Ingerbelle, the permits.
Andre Lauzon: Oh, oh, New Ingerbelle. I'm sorry. I'm still on gold.
Speaker #5: Oh, new Inger Bell. I'm sorry. I'm still on gold.
Speaker #9: You're still in Manitoba.
Eugene Lei: You're still in Manitoba.
Speaker #5: I'm still in Manitoba. So, yeah, so New Ingerbelle. Yeah, absolutely. So, we have about two years of construction we have to do. It's very straightforward.
Andre Lauzon: I'm still in Manitoba. So, yeah,
Craig Hutchison: Sorry.
Andre Lauzon: New Ingerbelle, yeah, absolutely. So we have about two years of construction we have to do. It's very straightforward. Haul roads, east haul road, west haul road, build the bridge, some pump, ponds to build, and then we'll be into it. And what's really, really neat about it, and we alluded in the press release, is it's pretty much if you look at the long term, the copper grade's a little bit lower, but it's very close. But it's almost 60 to 100% higher gold grade. It's really, you know, it's a really, really big improvement in grade. And the stripping is, you know, like, we're running at almost like a 5 to 1 strip right now. It's about three times less.
Speaker #5: Haul roads, East Haul Road, West Haul Road, build the bridge. Some pump ponds to build. And then we'll be into it. And it's really neat about it.
Speaker #5: And, as we alluded to in the press release, it's pretty much—if you look at the long term—the copper grade's a little bit lower, but it's very close.
Speaker #5: But it's almost 60% to 100% higher gold grade. It's really, it's a really, really big improvement in grade. And the stripping is—like, we're running at almost a 5-to-1 strip right now.
Speaker #5: It's about three times less. And so from a profitability standpoint, not only are we increasing the gold through that increased throughput, but we're going to be spending a lot less on stripping.
Andre Lauzon: From a profitability standpoint, not only are we increasing the gold through that increased throughput, but we're gonna be spending a lot less on stripping. So it's New Ingerbelle, it will be transformational for Copper Mountain in the 2028 range.
Speaker #5: So it's new Ingerbell will be transformational for Copper Mountain in the 2028 range. Yeah. And there's also exploration upside at new Ingerbell, too.
Eugene Lei: Exploration.
Andre Lauzon: Yes.
Peter Kukielski: There's also exploration upside of New Ingerbelle, too, so we-
Speaker #5: So we could have some.
Andre Lauzon: That's true.
Speaker #10: That's true. There's $20 million of drilling going on, and we're exploring at Inger Bell for upside potential to expand that high-grade gold-copper resource.
Peter Kukielski: Yeah.
Andre Lauzon: We have $20 million of drilling going on, and we're exploring at Ingerbelle for upside potential to expand that high-grade gold, copper resource. And as well as there's some targets on the Copper Mountain side as well, too, so. Yeah.
Speaker #10: And as well as, there's some targets on the Copper Mountain side as well too. So yeah. So it sounds like that's something that could come into the 2028 timeframe based on the two-year bill.
Craig Hutchison: So it sounds like that's something could come into 2028 timeframe based on the 2-year build.
Speaker #5: Yeah, that would be the plan, I would think—that's where we'd be. Yeah.
Andre Lauzon: Yes. That's, that would be the plan I would take, is where we'd be. Yep.
Speaker #10: And just one last question from me, just on cost. It looks like you guys are using pretty conservative metal prices for your C1 calculations.
Craig Hutchison: Just one last question for you, just on costs. It looks like you guys are using pretty conservative metal prices for your C1 calculations. Can you tell us what you're using for your TCRC costs, just to get a sense of whether there's some potential upside there from a C1 cost perspective?
Speaker #10: Can you tell us what you're using for your TCRC costs, just to get a sense of whether there's some potential upside there from a C1 cost perspective?
Eugene Lei: They didn't seem that conservative at the beginning of the year, so they are today. So we're definitely enjoying the benefits of the higher prices. On the TCRC front, our assumption is zero. So again-
Speaker #5: They didn't seem that conservative at the beginning of the year, but they are today. So we're definitely enjoying the benefits of the higher prices.
Speaker #5: On a TCRC front, where our assumption is zero. So again, we're entering into deals that are lower, that are below zero. So again, there could be a little bit of upside there.
Andre Lauzon: Okay.
Eugene Lei: We're entering into deals that are lower, that are below zero. So, again, there could be still a little bit upside there.
Speaker #10: Great. Thanks, guys.
Andre Lauzon: Great. Thanks, guys.
Speaker #11: The next question is from Anita Stoney with CIBC World Markets. Please go ahead.
Operator: The next question is from Anita Soni with CIBC World Markets. Please go ahead.
Speaker #12: Hi, thanks for taking my question. Most of them have been asked and answered, but I just wanted to clarify on BC. With the tie-in in the second half of the year, do you expect there will be any impact into 2027 from the, I guess, the delay in that tie-in?
Anita Soni: Hi, thanks for taking my question. Most of them have been asked and answered, but I just wanted to clarify on BC with the tie-in in the second half of the year. Do you expect there'll be any impact into 2027 from the delay in that tie-in, I guess?
Speaker #5: No. Not at all. No. It's scheduled to ramp up. Right now, even with the reduced mill capacity, we're seeing upwards sometimes of above 40,000 tons per day with the current restrictions that we placed on it.
Andre Lauzon: No. No, not at all. No, it's, it, it's scheduled to ramp up. Like, there, there's... Like, right, right now, even with the reduced mill capacity, we're seeing upwards sometimes of, of above 40,000 tons per day at the current, at the, with the, with the current restrictions that we placed on it. And, and so all of our processes are all being prepared right now for that ramp up once we have that new feed end shell in place. So, so we don't, we don't anticipate anything that's, that's really, really problematic. Like, all... There's no new feeders, no nothing. It's just changing it and, and running at a heavier loading rate in the mill. So right now we're being conservative on our bearing pressure in terms of the amount that we actually feed into the mill.
Speaker #5: And so all of our processes are all being prepared right now for that ramp-up once we have that new feed-in shell in place. So we don't anticipate anything that's really problematic.
Speaker #5: There's no new feeders, nothing. It's just changing it, and running at a heavier loading rate in the mill. So right now, we're being conservative on our bearing pressure in terms of the amount that we actually feed into the mill.
Speaker #5: But it's literally turning up the dial. And the mine, the mine itself has made some really, really great strides to increasing their production rate.
Andre Lauzon: But it's literally turning up a dial. And the mine itself has made, you know, some really, really great strides to increasing their production rate. So we're seeing averaging around 280,000 tons per day, which is unlocking high-grade copper coming in in the mid part of the year as well, too.
Speaker #5: So we're seeing averaging around 280,000 tons per day, which is unlocking high-grade copper coming in in the mid part of the year as well, too.
Speaker #12: Okay. So then, on January 1, 2027, what's the throughput rate we should be using?
Anita Soni: Okay. So then on 1 January 2027, what's the throughput rate we should be using?
Speaker #5: We should be at 50,000 tons a day. That's where we anticipate to be.
Andre Lauzon: We should be around 50,000 tons a day. That's, that's where we anticipate to be.
Speaker #12: Okay, cool. Thanks. Thank you very much for answering my question.
Anita Soni: Okay, cool. Thanks. Thank you very much for taking my question.
Speaker #5: Thanks, Anita.
Andre Lauzon: Thanks, Anita.
Speaker #11: And our last question is from Martin Fradia with Veritas Investment Research. Please go ahead.
Operator: Our last question is from Martin Pradier with Veritas Investment Research. Please go ahead.
Speaker #5: Thank you so much for the question. Actually, the first one is on the—
Fahad Tariq: Thank you so much for taking my question. I have two questions, actually. The first one is on the-
Speaker #11: I'm sorry, Martin. We're unable to hear you. It's a very corrupted line. Are you speaking directly into your microphone? Okay. Unfortunately, I think we're going to have to move on.
Operator: I'm sorry, Martin, we're unable to hear you. It's a very corrupted line. Are you speaking directly into your microphone? Okay, unfortunately, I think we're gonna have to move on. So I would like to hand the conference back over to Candace Brûlé for closing remarks.
Speaker #11: So, I would like to hand the conference back over to Candace Brule for closing remarks.
Speaker #2: Thank you, operator. And Martin, please feel free to email us your questions, given the technical difficulties there. But thank you, everyone, for joining us today.
Candace Brulé: Thank you, operator. Martin Pradier, please feel free to email us your questions, given the technical difficulties there. But thank you, everyone, for joining us today. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our investor relations team. Thank you, and have a great day.
Speaker #2: If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact our Investor Relations team. Thank you, and have a great day.
Operator: This concludes the question, the conference call for today. You may now disconnect your line. Thank you for participating, and have a pleasant day.