VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA
-- (Marketwired)
-- 02/11/16
All dollar amounts expressed in this news release are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.
Teck Resources Limited (TSX: TCK.A and TCK.B, NYSE: TCK) ("Teck") reported unaudited annual adjusted profit attributable to shareholders of $188 million, or $0.33 per share, compared with $452 million, or $0.78 per share in 2014. Fourth quarter adjusted profit attributable to shareholders was $16 million, or $0.03 per share, compared with $116 million, or $0.20 per share, in the fourth quarter of 2014. Total non-cash after-tax impairment charges for 2015 amounted to $2.7 billion, of which $536 million was taken in the fourth quarter.
"We were pleased with our operating performance in 2015, meeting our guidance, reducing our costs and raising nearly $1 billion through two streaming transactions to strengthen our balance sheet," said Don Lindsay, President and CEO. "However, the commodity cycle continues to provide us with a very challenging environment such that our near-term priorities are to keep all of our operations cash flow positive, meet our commitment to Fort Hills with internal sources of funds, evaluate options to further strengthen our liquidity and maintain a strong financial position by ending the year without drawing on our lines of credit."
Highlights and Significant Items
-- Annual adjusted profit attributable to shareholders was $188 million, or
$0.33 per share. Fourth quarter adjusted profit attributable to
shareholders was $16 million, or $0.03 per share.
-- Gross profit before depreciation and amortization in 2015 was $2.6
billion compared with $2.9 billion in 2014. Gross profit before
depreciation and amortization was $614 million in the fourth quarter
compared with $757 million in the fourth quarter of 2014.
-- Cash flow from operations, before working capital changes, was $1.7
billion in 2015 compared with $2.0 billion last year. Cash flow from
operations, before working capital changes, was $428 million in the
fourth quarter of 2015 compared with $491 million a year ago.
-- The loss attributable to shareholders was $459 million in the fourth
quarter compared with a profit of $129 million in the fourth quarter of
2014.
-- Our quarterly loss included impairment charges of $736 million on a pre-
tax basis, including $45 million on our steelmaking coal assets, $93
million on copper and $598 million on the Fort Hills oil sand project
resulting in a $536 million after-tax charge. For 2015, total pre-tax
asset impairment charges were $3.6 billion and $2.7 billion on an after-
tax basis.
-- Adjusted EBITDA for 2015 (not including the non-cash impairment charges)
was $2.0 billion compared with $2.4 billion in 2014.
-- Our liquidity remains strong with a cash balance of $1.8 billion at
February 10, and US$3.0 billion available under our revolving credit
facility which matures in 2020.
-- Construction of the Fort Hills oil sands project is more than 50%
complete and progressing substantially on schedule and on budget. As at
February 10, our remaining cash funding to complete the project is $1.2
billion.
-- We received a payment of $789 million (US$610 million) for the sale of a
silver stream linked to our share of the Antamina mine.
-- Cash unit production costs were reduced at all of our operations in 2015
compared with a year ago as a result of the highly focused efforts on
our cost reduction program and lower diesel prices.
-- We have reached agreements with the majority of our steelmaking coal
customers for the first quarter of 2016, based on a quarterly benchmark
of US$81 per tonne for the highest quality product, and we expect total
sales in the first quarter, including spot sales, to be at least 5.5
million tonnes of steelmaking coal.
-- We were recognized as one of the Global 100 Most Sustainable
Corporations for the fourth consecutive year by media and investment
research company Corporate Knights.
-- Operating highlights in 2015 included:
-- all our operating mines, with the exception of Quebrada Blanca and
Pend Oreille, remained cash positive in the fourth quarter and for
2015,
-- we achieved record annual production at Trail for refined zinc and
silver, and
-- we achieved record annual mill throughput at Antamina.
-- If we meet our full year guidance for production, costs and capital
expenditures, assuming current commodity prices and exchange rates and
no unusual transactions or events, we should complete 2016 with at least
$500 million in cash without any material change in our overall U.S.
dollar debt level.
This news release is dated as at February 11, 2016. Unless the context otherwise dictates, a reference to "Teck," "the company," "us," "we," or "our" refers to Teck and its subsidiaries. Additional information, including our annual information form and management's discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2014, is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.
This document contains forward-looking statements. Please refer to the cautionary language under the heading "CAUTIONARY STATEMENT ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION" below.
Overview
Our financial results in the fourth quarter and for 2015 were significantly affected by the decline in commodity prices. In the case of steelmaking coal, prices are approximately 40% lower in U.S. dollar terms than those experienced during the financial crisis in 2008/2009. In 2015, annual copper, steelmaking coal and zinc prices declined by 20%, 19% and 11%, respectively in U.S. dollar terms, compared with 2014. Concerns regarding a slowdown in the Chinese economy combined with an oversupply of certain commodities, especially steelmaking coal, have caused the price declines and volatility.
Partly offsetting the commodity price declines was a stronger U.S. dollar, which has a significant positive benefit on our business, as sales of our products are denominated in U.S. dollars while a significant portion of our expenses are incurred in local currencies, particularly the Canadian dollar. At current commodity prices, each one cent change in the Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate has a $34 million effect on our EBITDA.
To meet the ongoing challenge of this price environment, we have been highly focused on our business operations and achieving our cost reduction and production targets. Our cost reduction program has reduced operating costs across the organization. In addition, we reduced capital spending in the current year and are reducing planned spending in future years. We achieved cash production unit cost reductions at all our operations in 2015 compared with 2014. All of our major operations have remained cash positive after sustaining capital expenditures in 2015 and for the fourth quarter of 2015. Quebrada Blanca, where ground control issues affected production, and Pend Oreille, which started up operations in December 2014 and was ramping up through 2015, were cash flow negative after sustaining capital.
The oil market has been volatile and in significant decline since mid-2014. During 2015, the decline in oil price had a significant positive effect on our operating costs as our mining operations use a substantial amount of diesel fuel. Our Fort Hills oil sands property, which is currently under construction, has a reserve life of approximately 50 years. The project is expected to produce first oil by the fourth quarter of 2017 and achieve 90% of its planned production capacity within 12 months. Consistent with our strategy to develop long-life assets, in order to be exposed to various commodity price cycles, we believe that Fort Hills will benefit from higher oil prices in the longer term.
Profit and Adjusted Profit(1)
We incurred a loss attributable to shareholders of $459 million, or $0.80 per share, in the fourth quarter compared with a profit of $129 million or $0.23 per share in the same period a year ago.
Adjusted profit attributable to shareholders, before items identified in the table below, was $16 million, or $0.03 per share, in the fourth quarter compared with $116 million or $0.20 per share in the same period last year. The decline in adjusted profit is primarily due to substantially lower U.S. dollar prices for our primary products, partly offset by reduced operating costs and the positive effect of a stronger U.S. dollar. Declining metal prices resulted in after-tax negative pricing adjustments of approximately $42 million in each of the fourth quarters of 2015 and 2014. We also had after-tax profits of $91 million derived from royalty sales and a gain on the formation of Project Corridor.
Profit and Adjusted Profit
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit (loss) attributable
to shareholders as reported $ (459) $ 129 $ (2,474) $ 362
Add (deduct) the after-tax
effect of:
Asset sales and provisions (91) 7 (107) 13
Foreign exchange losses 19 3 80 8
Derivative (losses) 1 4 - 4
Collective bargaining
agreement charge 10 - 10 -
Asset impairments 536 - 2,691 7
Tax items - (27) (12) 58
------------------------------------------------
Adjusted profit $ 16 $ 116 $ 188 $ 452
------------------------------------------------
Adjusted earnings per share $ 0.03 $ 0.20 $ 0.33 $ 0.78
------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. Non-GAAP financial measure. See "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures"
section for further information.
During the quarter we recorded asset impairment charges on our investment in Fort Hills, on our Coal Mountain and Carmen de Andacollo operations. These charges totaled $736 million on a pre-tax basis and $536 million on an after-tax basis. The write-downs were triggered by lower short-term commodity prices and lower market expectations for some future commodity prices and capital market conditions.
Three months ended Year ended
December 31, 2015 December 31, 2015
(CAD$ in millions) Pre-tax After-tax Pre-tax After-tax
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impairments
Steelmaking coal operations $ 45 $ 29 $ 2,032 $ 1,482
Copper - Carmen de Andacollo 93 65 506 405
Zinc - Pend Oreille - - 31 19
Energy - Fort Hills 598 442 1,062 785
----------------------------------------
Total $ 736 $ 536 $ 3,631 $ 2,691
----------------------------------------
The economic models for determining the amount of impairment charges above use current prices in the initial years and transition to longer-term prices in years three to five. Current long-term assumptions are as follows: steelmaking coal US$130 per tonne, copper US$3.00 per pound, zinc US$1.00 per pound, Western Canadian Select of US$60 per barrel and $1.25 Canadian to U.S. dollar exchange rate. A 6.2% real, 8.3% nominal, post-tax discount rate was used to discount our cash flow projections. Discount rates are based on the weighted average cost of capital for a mining industry peer group.
Three months Year ended
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions, except
per share data) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues and profit
Revenues $ 2,135 $ 2,256 $ 8,259 $ 8,599
Gross profit before
depreciation and
amortization (1) $ 614 $ 757 $ 2,645 $ 2,879
Gross profit $ 281 $ 416 $ 1,279 $ 1,535
EBITDA (1) $ (269) $ 582 $ (1,633) $ 2,348
Profit (loss) attributable
to shareholders $ (459) $ 129 $ (2,474) $ 362
Cash flow
Cash flow from operations $ 687 $ 743 $ 1,951 $ 2,278
Property, plant and
equipment expenditures $ 532 $ 420 $ 1,581 $ 1,498
Capitalized stripping
costs $ 176 $ 167 $ 663 $ 715
Investments $ 13 $ 12 $ 82 $ 44
Balance Sheet
Cash balances $ 1,887 $ 2,029
Total assets $ 34,688 $ 36,839
Debt, including current
portion $ 9,634 $ 8,441
Per share amounts
Profit (loss) attributable
to shareholders $ (0.80) $ 0.23 $ (4.29) $ 0.63
Dividends declared $ 0.05 $ 0.45 $ 0.20 $ 0.90
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PRODUCTION, SALES AND PRICES
Production (000's tonnes,
except steelmaking coal)
Steelmaking coal (millions
tonnes) 6.4 6.8 25.3 26.7
Copper (2) 96 83 358 333
Zinc in concentrate (3) 158 171 658 660
Zinc - refined 79 73 307 277
Sales (000's tonnes, except
steelmaking coal)
Steelmaking coal (millions
tonnes) 6.5 6.5 26.0 26.2
Copper (2) 105 86 357 338
Zinc in concentrate (3) 238 202 706 657
Zinc - refined 79 73 308 277
Average prices and exchange
rates
Steelmaking coal (realized
US$/tonne) $ 81 $ 110 $ 93 $ 115
Steelmaking coal (realized
CAD$/tonne) $ 108 $ 123 $ 117 $ 126
Copper (LME cash -
US$/pound) $ 2.22 $ 3.00 $ 2.49 $ 3.11
Zinc (LME cash - US$/
pound) $ 0.73 $ 1.01 $ 0.87 $ 0.98
Average exchange rate (C$
per US$1.00) $ 1.34 $ 1.14 $ 1.28 $ 1.10
Gross profit margins before
depreciation (1)
Steelmaking coal 28% 28% 30% 28%
Copper 33% 42% 38% 46%
Zinc 26% 32% 29% 29%
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Notes:
1. Non-GAAP financial measure. See "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures"
section for further information.
2. We include 100% of production and sales from our Highland Valley Copper,
Quebrada Blanca and Carmen de Andacollo mines in our production and
sales volumes, even though we own 97.5%, 76.5% and 90%, respectively, of
these operations, because we fully consolidate their results in our
financial statements. We include 22.5% of production and sales from
Antamina, representing our proportionate equity interest in Antamina.
3. Includes 6,000 tonnes of pre-commercial production and sales volumes for
Pend Oreille in the first quarter of 2015.
BUSINESS UNIT RESULTS
Our revenues, gross profit before depreciation and amortization, and gross profit by business unit are summarized in the table below.
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues
Steelmaking coal $ 701 $ 824 $ 3,049 $ 3,335
Copper 619 656 2,422 2,586
Zinc 814 775 2,784 2,675
Energy 1 1 4 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total $ 2,135 $ 2,256 $ 8,259 $ 8,599
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit, before
depreciation and
amortization (1)
Steelmaking coal $ 197 $ 234 $ 906 $ 920
Copper 203 274 931 1,177
Zinc 213 248 805 779
Energy 1 1 3 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total $ 614 $ 757 $ 2,645 $ 2,879
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit
Steelmaking coal $ 29 $ 56 $ 200 $ 208
Copper 76 149 426 678
Zinc 176 211 655 649
Energy - - (2) -
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total $ 281 $ 416 $ 1,279 $ 1,535
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. Non-GAAP financial measure. See "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures"
section for further information.
STEELMAKING COAL BUSINESS UNIT
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Steelmaking coal price (realized
US$/tonne) $ 81 $ 110 $ 93 $ 115
Steelmaking coal price (realized
CAD$/tonne) $ 108 $ 123 $ 117 $ 126
Production (million tonnes) 6.4 6.8 25.3 26.7
Sales (million tonnes) 6.5 6.5 26.0 26.2
Gross profit, before
depreciation and amortization $ 197 $ 234 $ 906 $ 920
Gross profit $ 29 $ 56 $ 200 $ 208
Property, plant and equipment
expenditures $ 28 $ 47 $ 97 $ 235
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Performance
Gross profit before depreciation and amortization from our steelmaking coal business unit decreased by $37 million from a year ago (see table below), as the benefits of our cost reduction program and lower diesel prices were more than offset by lower realized steelmaking coal prices.
The average realized steelmaking coal price of US$81 per tonne was 26% lower than the fourth quarter of 2014, reflecting oversupplied steelmaking coal market conditions and a decline in spot price assessments. The favourable effect of a stronger U.S. dollar in the fourth quarter partly offset the lower price, which resulted in our Canadian dollar realized price declining by 12% compared with a year ago.
Fourth quarter production of 6.4 million tonnes was 6% lower than the same period a year ago as we reduced production volumes to match sales volumes which were equal to the previous year. Even with the lower production volumes, unit production costs at the mines were 6% lower this quarter than a year ago as a result of our continued cost reductions, productivity improvements and lower diesel prices.
The table below summarizes the gross profit changes, before depreciation and amortization, in our steelmaking coal business unit for the quarter:
Three months
(CAD$ in millions) ended December 31,
------------------------------------------------------------------
As reported in fourth quarter of 2014 $ 234
Increase (decrease):
Steelmaking coal price realized:
US$ price (231)
Foreign exchange 115
Sales volume (2)
Operating costs 71
Inventory write-down 10
------------------------------------------------------------------
Net decrease (37)
------------------------------------------------------------------
As reported in current quarter $ 197
------------------------------------------------------------------
Property, plant and equipment expenditures totaled $28 million in the fourth quarter, of which $20 million was spent on sustaining capital. Capitalized stripping costs were $103 million in the fourth quarter compared with $94 million a year ago.
We continue to implement the water quality management measures contemplated by our Elk Valley Water Quality Plan. The water treatment facility at our Line Creek Operations continues to move through commissioning and is expected to be fully operational in early 2016.
Markets
Steelmaking coal prices declined further during the quarter. Although Chinese imports have declined substantially compared to 2014, demand in the rest of the world continues to be strong for our products. However, given oversupply in the market, we do not expect a substantial recovery in price until additional supply cuts occur or demand increases.
Steelmaking coal prices for the first quarter of 2016 have been agreed with the majority of our quarterly priced customers based on US$81 per tonne for the highest quality products. This is consistent with prices reportedly achieved by our competitors. Additional sales priced on a spot basis will reflect market conditions as sales are concluded.
Operations
Our cost reduction initiatives continue to produce significant results and remain focused on improvements in equipment and labour productivity, reduced use of contractors, reduced consumable usage and limiting the use of higher cost equipment. However, a number of factors have partially offset the strong performance of our cost reduction program. These included the effects of the strengthening U.S. dollar on some inputs and higher electricity costs.
In the fourth quarter of 2015, we continued to experience the positive effects of lower diesel prices. Combined with reduced usage from a number of our cost reduction initiatives and slightly shorter haul distances, diesel costs per tonne produced have decreased by 31% compared to the fourth quarter of 2014.
Cost of Sales
Site cost of sales in the fourth quarter of 2015, before transportation, depreciation and inventory write-downs, was $41 per tonne, $7 per tonne or 15% lower than a year ago.
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(amounts reported in CAD$
per tonne) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Site cost of sales $ 41 $ 48 $ 45 $ 51
Transportation costs 35 39 36 38
Inventory write-down 2 4 2 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unit costs (1) (2) $ 78 $ 91 $ 83 $ 92
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(amounts reported in US$ per
tonne) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Site cost of sales $ 31 $ 42 $ 35 $ 46
Transportation costs 26 34 28 35
Inventory write-down 1 3 1 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unit costs (1) (2) $ 58 $ 79 $ 64 $ 84
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. Non-GAAP financial measure. See "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures"
section for further information.
2. Does not include deferred stripping or capital expenditures.
Our total cost of sales for the quarter also included an $11 per tonne charge for the amortization of capitalized stripping costs and $15 per tonne for other depreciation. In U.S. dollar terms, unit costs have fallen by $11 per tonne from $42 per tonne to $31 per tonne due to reductions in the site costs as explained on page 8 and the positive effect of the stronger U.S. dollar when translating our Canadian costs.
Outlook
Vessel nominations for quarterly contract shipments are determined by customers and final sales and average prices for the quarter will depend on product mix, market direction for spot priced sales, timely arrival of vessels, as well as the performance of the rail transportation network and port-loading facilities.
Steelmaking coal production in 2016 is expected to be between 25 and 26 million tonnes. Production in the first half of 2016 is expected to be lower than the second half due to scheduled plant maintenance shutdowns and raw coal release timing. As in prior years, annual volumes produced will be adjusted if necessary to reflect market demand for our products. Production in 2017 is expected to remain similar to 2016, assuming current market conditions persist. We are currently exploring our options to maintain production at similar levels in 2018 and beyond after the closure of Coal Mountain in late 2017.
Excluding transportation costs, we expect our annual cost of product sold to be in the range of $45 to $49 per tonne (US$32 to US$35) based on our current production plans. This range is slightly higher than in 2015. Normal variability between higher and lower strip ratio areas exists in our mine plan sequence. In 2016 we expect to reduce our overall mining costs from 2015 levels, but a higher proportion of these costs are expected to relate to current production and less to capitalized stripping. This results in a reduction in capitalized stripping from $396 million in 2015 to an expected $288 million in 2016 and an increase of $4 per tonne in operating costs.
Transportation costs in 2016 are expected to be approximately $35 to $37 per tonne (US$25 to US$26).
Capital spending planned for 2016 also includes $50 million for sustaining capital and $38 million for major enhancement projects focused on extending mine life at a number of our Elk Valley operations.
COPPER BUSINESS UNIT
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copper price (realized -
US$/pound) $ 2.21 $ 2.98 $ 2.50 $ 3.12
Production (000's tonnes) 96 83 358 333
Sales (000's tonnes) 105 86 357 338
Gross profit, before
depreciation and
amortization $ 203 $ 274 $ 931 $ 1,177
Gross profit $ 76 $ 149 $ 426 $ 678
Property, plant and
equipment expenditures $ 125 $ 100 $ 338 $ 357
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Performance
Gross profit before depreciation and amortization from our copper business unit decreased by $71 million in the fourth quarter compared with a year ago (see table below). This was primarily due to lower realized copper prices, partially offset by higher sales volumes and lower unit costs driven by the effect of higher production levels and the results of our cost reduction initiatives.
Copper production increased to 96,000 tonnes compared with 83,000 tonnes a year ago. Production at Highland Valley Copper was 11,700 tonnes higher than a year ago primarily due to higher grades and recoveries, while our share of production from Antamina increased by 6,800 tonnes as a result of record mill throughput and higher grades during the quarter. Production was lower at Quebrada Blanca due to ore availability constraints resulting from geotechnical issues adjacent to the SX-EW plant that occurred in June.
The table below summarizes the changes in gross profit, before depreciation and amortization, in our copper business unit for the quarter:
Three months
(CAD$ in millions) ended December 31,
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
As reported in the fourth quarter of 2014 $ 274
Increase (decrease):
Copper price realized (US$ price) (196)
Sales volume 45
Co-product and by-product revenues (53)
Unit operating costs 111
Copper inventory write-down (20)
Foreign exchange 54
Other (12)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net decrease (71)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
As reported in current quarter $ 203
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Capital expenditures totaled $125 million, including $79 million for sustaining capital and $43 million for new mine development, of which $40 million was for the Quebrada Blanca Phase 2 project. Capitalized stripping costs were $50 million in the fourth quarter, lower than the $54 million a year ago.
Markets
LME copper prices averaged US$2.22 per pound in the fourth quarter of 2015, down 26% from a year ago. Copper prices remained volatile trading to the lowest levels since 2009.
Total reported exchange stocks fell 41,200 tonnes during the quarter to 0.5 million tonnes. Total reported global copper exchange stocks are now estimated to be 7.9 days of global consumption, below the estimated 25 year average of 12 days of global consumption.
Operational issues and low copper prices are affecting current and future mine production plans. Estimates of lost global production in 2015 amounted to over 1.2 million tonnes. Despite a reduction in demand growth in 2015, analysts believe the market recorded only a small surplus. Similar levels of production cuts have already been made for 2016, and while mine production is expected to grow in 2016, analysts now project it will be far less than previously forecast. Market fundamentals over the medium to long-term remain positive as low prices, lower grades and ongoing operational difficulties and project delays will continue to constrain production growth and investment.
Operations
Highland Valley Copper
Copper production was 41,200 tonnes in the fourth quarter or 40% higher than a year ago, due to higher copper grades and higher recoveries. Mill throughput was lower than a year ago due to harder ore in the current phase of the Valley pit. As we continued to mine the higher grade but harder ore in the current phase of the Valley pit, throughput remained similar to previous quarters, but lower than the previous year, as anticipated. Molybdenum production declined to 0.9 million pounds from 1.3 million pounds a year ago primarily due to lower grade and recovery.
Operating costs of $128 million decreased by $14 million or 10% compared to the same period a year ago as a result of substantial progress on cost savings programs and lower mill throughput. Unit costs declined significantly compared to a year ago due to higher ore grades and the resulting higher sales. Capitalized stripping costs in the fourth quarter were $30 million compared with $27 million a year ago.
On average, production is expected to be 135,000 tonnes per year until the end of the current mine life in 2026. As anticipated in the mine plan, production at Highland Valley Copper will vary significantly over the next few years to due significant fluctuations in ore grades and hardness. We forecast copper production in 2016 of between 113,000 and 118,000 tonnes of copper as the current high grade phase in the Valley pit is completed. Copper production is expected to be higher in the first half of 2016 before declining significantly for the remainder of the year. Copper production is expected to be lower than normal before gradually recovering in 2018 and 2019 as we mine a lower grade phase of the mine. Average annual copper production from 2017 to 2019 is expected to be 105,000 tonnes per year, with a low of 90,000 tonnes expected in 2017. Copper production is expected to return to above life of mine average levels starting in 2020. Molybdenum production in 2016 is expected to be approximately 5.8 to 6.2 million pounds contained in concentrate. Annual molybdenum production from 2017 to 2019 is estimated to average 8.5 million pounds.
Antamina
Copper production in the fourth quarter increased by 36% compared with a year ago primarily as a result of higher grades, recovery and mill throughput. The mix of mill feed in the quarter was 69% copper-only ore and 31% copper-zinc ore compared to 66% and 34%, respectively, in the same period a year ago. Zinc production of 58,000 tonnes in the fourth quarter was consistent with the same period a year ago as lower grades were partially offset by higher recovery.
Antamina achieved mill throughput of 14.2 million tonnes for the quarter, an average of 154,200 tonnes per day, 4% higher than the same period last year. Recent debottlenecking projects focused primarily on the crushing and conveying system have enabled throughputs much higher than the 130,000 tonnes per day design capacity of the original expansion project. Throughput rates going forward will be dependent on ore hardness and the mix of ore feeds to the plant, but are expected to continue above original design capacity rates.
Operating costs in the fourth quarter, before changes in inventory, were 7% lower than a year ago primarily due to lower fuel costs, reduced tire costs and reduced usage of contractors.
In the fourth quarter we entered into a long-term streaming agreement with FN Holdings ULC (FNH), a subsidiary of Franco-Nevada Corporation, linked to silver production at the Antamina mine. Compania Minera Antamina S.A., in which we hold a 22.5% interest and which owns and operates Antamina, is not a party to the agreement and operations will not be affected. Franco-Nevada made a payment of $789 million (US$610 million) and will pay 5% of the spot price at the time of delivery for each ounce of silver delivered under the agreement. We will deliver silver to Franco-Nevada equivalent to 22.5% of payable silver sold by Compania Minera Antamina S.A., using a silver payability factor of 90%. After 86 million ounces of silver have been delivered under the agreement, the stream will be reduced by one-third. We recorded the payment as deferred consideration and will amortize the amount based on the delivery of the silver.
Our 22.5% share of Antamina's 2016 production is expected to be in the range of 90,000 to 95,000 tonnes of copper, 48,000 to 52,000 tonnes of zinc and 1.7 million pounds of molybdenum. Our share of copper production is expected to remain stable between 90,000 and 100,000 tonnes from 2017 to 2019. Zinc production is expected to increase significantly as the mine enters a phase with high zinc grades and a higher proportion of copper-zinc ore processed, with our share of zinc production during 2017 to 2019 expected to average more than 80,000 tonnes per year. Annual molybdenum production is expected to range between 2.0 million and 2.5 million pounds between 2017 and 2019.
Quebrada Blanca
Copper production in the fourth quarter decreased by 25% compared with a year ago due to lower grades and ore availability constraints following the ground movement that occurred in June adjacent to the SX-EW plant. We continue to operate the south side of the SX-EW plant which has sufficient production capacity for the available ore sources over the remainder of the mine life. The north portion of the SX-EW plant is being decommissioned.
Before a US$15 million inventory write-down due to lower copper prices, operating costs in the fourth quarter were US$50 million, the same as a year ago. Capitalized stripping costs in the fourth quarter were US$1 million compared with US$9 million a year ago.
We continue to advance the updating of the environmental permits for the existing facilities for the supergene operation. Indigenous Peoples' consultation processes by the relevant regulatory agencies are still in progress.
We expect production of approximately 30,000 to 35,000 tonnes of copper cathode in 2016. Grades are forecast to decline as the supergene deposit is gradually depleted. The operation made significant progress on further cost reduction initiatives in late 2015, with continued focus early in 2016 on minimizing operating costs at current production levels. Mine life options past 2016 are being reviewed in light of current market conditions and mine life and future production plans will depend on copper prices and further cost reduction efforts.
Carmen de Andacollo
Copper production in the fourth quarter increased by 2% compared with a year ago primarily as a result of higher copper recovery and throughput.
Before a US$10 million labour settlement charge, operating costs in the fourth quarter were US$72 million compared with US$74 million a year ago. Excluding the one-time labour settlement charge, unit costs were lower than a year ago, reflecting our cost reduction program and higher volumes. Capitalized stripping costs in the fourth quarter of both periods were minimal.
Consistent with the mine plan, copper grades are expected to gradually decline in 2016 and in future years which we expect to offset by planned throughput improvements. Carmen de Andacollo's production in 2016 is expected to be in the range of 65,000 to 70,000 tonnes of copper contained in concentrate and 3,000 tonnes of copper cathode, similar to 2015. Copper concentrate production is expected to remain similar for the subsequent three-year period. We are working to extend cathode production, previously expected to end in 2015, at similar rates through 2020.
Cost of Sales
Unit cash costs of product sold in the fourth quarter of 2015 as reported in U.S. dollars, before cash margins for by-products, decreased primarily due to higher sales volumes, continued cost reduction efforts and the favourable effects of a stronger U.S. dollar at our Chilean and Highland Valley Copper operations. Cash margin for by-products was significantly lower compared to the same period a year ago. This was due to lower zinc revenues as a result of substantially lower prices and the loss of zinc revenues from the closure of Duck Pond in June 2015. The removal of silver credits at Antamina following our silver streaming agreement resulted in a US$0.09 per pound reduction to by-product credits in the fourth quarter.
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(amounts reported in US$ per
pound) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted cash cost of sales
(1) $ 1.23 $ 1.75 $ 1.40 $ 1.72
Smelter processing charges 0.23 0.23 0.24 0.22
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Total cash unit costs before
by-product margins (1) $ 1.46 $ 1.98 $ 1.64 $ 1.94
Cash margin for by-products
(1) (2) (0.09) (0.29) (0.19) (0.29)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total cash unit costs after
by-product margins (1) $ 1.37 $ 1.69 $ 1.45 $ 1.65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. Non-GAAP financial measure. See "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures"
section for further information.
2. By-products includes both by-products and co-products.
Copper Development Projects
Quebrada Blanca Phase 2
During the fourth quarter of 2015, activities continued to focus on capital optimization and permitting for the Quebrada Blanca Phase 2 project. We decided to move the proposed tailings facility closer to the mine site. The proposed facility is expected to provide sufficient capacity for tailings from ore mined during the first 25 years of the mine life. This decision, and other plant and infrastructure optimizations in the current design, are expected to materially reduce initial capital costs for the project. We expect to complete a new cost estimate in 2016 as engineering on these design changes progresses. Additional baseline work is required as a result of these changes and we now anticipate submitting the Social and Environmental Impact Assessment (SEIA) for the project to the authorities in mid to late 2016.
Project Corridor
In November, we closed the transaction combining Goldcorp's El Morro project with our Relincho project, located approximately 40 kilometres apart in the Huasco Province in the Atacama region of Chile, into a single copper-gold-molybdenum project. Teck and Goldcorp contributed their respective project interests to create a 50/50 joint venture. In combination with community consultation, a pre-feasibility study is expected to commence in mid-2016 and be completed in approximately 12 to 18 months.
Other Copper Projects
The pre-feasibility study continued to progress at our 50% owned Zafranal copper-gold project located in southern Peru and is now expected to be complete in the first half of 2016. We continue to minimize expenditures on all other copper projects. Targeted studies continue at Galore Creek, Schaft Creek, San Nicolas and Mesaba projects as we further explore ways to enhance the value of these projects.
Outlook
We expect 2016 copper production to be in the range of 305,000 to 320,000 thousand tonnes, with lower production in the second half of the year as a result of lower grades at Highland Valley Copper.
In 2016, we expect our copper unit costs to be in the range of US$1.65 to US$1.75 per pound before margins from by-products and US$1.50 to US$1.60 per pound after by-products based on current production plans, by-product prices and exchange rates.
ZINC BUSINESS UNIT
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zinc price (realized -
US$/lb) $ 0.75 $ 1.04 $ 0.87 $ 1.00
Production (000's tonnes)
Refined zinc 79 73 307 277
Zinc in concentrate (1) 145 155 598 596
Sales (000's tonnes)
Refined zinc 79 73 308 277
Zinc in concentrate (1) 222 179 644 594
Gross profit before
depreciation and
amortization $ 213 $ 248 $ 805 $ 779
Gross profit $ 176 $ 211 $ 655 $ 649
Property, plant and
equipment expenditures $ 70 $ 70 $ 145 $ 192
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. Represents production and sales from Red Dog and Pend Oreille, including
6,000 tonnes of pre-commercial production and sales volume for Pend
Oreille in the first quarter of 2015. Excludes co-product zinc
production and sales from our copper business unit.
Performance
Gross profit before depreciation and amortization from our zinc business unit declined by $35 million in the fourth quarter compared with a year ago (see table below). A substantially lower realized zinc price was partly offset by the favourable effect of a stronger U.S. dollar and higher sales volumes, partially due to the timing of Red Dog shipments.
Refined zinc production in the fourth quarter from our Trail Operations increased by 8% compared to last year due to improved operating efficiencies in the electrolytic plant and to the improved reliability of the new acid plant, leading to higher throughput in 2015. For 2015, Trail achieved record production of refined zinc and silver. At Red Dog, zinc production was 12% lower than a year ago primarily due to an extended annual mill shutdown.
The table below summarizes the gross profit change, before depreciation and amortization, in our zinc business unit for the quarter.
Three months
(CAD$ in millions) ended December 31,
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
As reported in the fourth quarter of 2014 $ 248
Increase (decrease):
Zinc price realized (US$ price) (166)
Sales volume 50
Co-product and by-product contribution (8)
Unit operating costs 23
Royalties 20
Foreign exchange 53
Pend Oreille loss (7)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net decrease (35)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
As reported in current quarter $ 213
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Capital expenditures include $64 million for sustaining capital, which included $49 million at Trail and $15 million at Red Dog.
Markets
LME zinc prices averaged US$0.73 per pound in the fourth quarter of 2015, a decrease of 28% from the same period a year ago. Zinc prices fell to a low of US$0.67 per pound in the quarter, the lowest level since 2009.
Reported zinc exchange stocks fell 96,750 tonnes during the quarter to end the year at 659,300 tonnes. Total global reported exchange stocks are now estimated at 17 days of global consumption, down from the 25 year average of 23 days.
Demand for refined zinc in our key North American markets remained weak again this quarter with our customers facing headwinds from significantly increased imports of low priced galvanized steel into North America. Current reductions in monthly imports combined with good underlying demand should help to reduce service center inventories and improve North American galvanized steel market conditions. Stocks of both zinc metal and concentrates have continued to decline since the start of this year. Zinc metal supply is expected to become constrained in 2016 with the forecast mine closures having now taken place and additional production cuts announced in the third and fourth quarters also taking effect.
Operations
Red Dog
Mill throughput in the fourth quarter was 15% lower than a year ago primarily due an extended annual mill maintenance shutdown, which resulted in zinc production being 12% lower than a year ago. Lead production declined by 22% primarily due to the lower throughput and reduced recoveries, partly offset by higher ore grades.
Zinc and lead sales volumes were 19% and 27% higher, respectively, than in the fourth quarter of 2014 due to timing of annual shipments.
Cost of sales in the current quarter increased by US$20 million to US$95 million, primarily due to higher sales volumes compared with the same period a year ago. Capitalized stripping costs were US$17 million in the fourth quarter, the same as a year ago.
Offsite zinc inventory available for sale from January 1, 2016 to the beginning of the 2016 shipping season totals 220,000 tonnes (2015 - 249,000 tonnes) of contained metal. Zinc sales volumes in the first quarter of 2016 are estimated to be approximately 115,000 tonnes of contained metal. All offsite lead inventories were sold as of the end of 2015.
Red Dog's production in 2016 is expected to be in the range of 545,000 to 570,000 tonnes of zinc and 115,000 to 120,000 tonnes of lead. From 2017 to 2019, Red Dog's production is expected to be in the range of 500,000 to 550,000 tonnes of zinc and 100,000 to 110,000 tonnes of lead. Studies are in progress to increase mill throughput and thus zinc metal production as feed grade continues to decline.
Teck Alaska has filed a complaint in the Superior Court for the State of Alaska seeking to enjoin the enforcement of a new severance tax enacted by the Northwest Arctic Borough, a local municipality, on the grounds that the municipality lacks the authority to tax interstate commerce, that the tax violates Teck Alaska's equal protection and due process rights, and that the imposition of the tax breaches a prior negotiated agreement between Teck Alaska and the municipality. The new tax falls solely on Teck Alaska and, if legal, would increase annual payments to the municipality from approximately $11.5 million under the prior agreement to an estimated US$30 to US$40 million, depending on zinc prices. While we are advised that there is a sound legal basis for the complaint, there can be no assurance that Teck Alaska will prevail in the litigation, or that the tax will not be enforceable.
Trail
Zinc production matched our quarterly production record and was 8% higher this quarter than in the fourth quarter of 2014. The increased production and record results were due to improved reliability of the new acid plant and better utilization of electrical current applied in the zinc cell house. Lead production was 52% higher than a year ago as 2014 production was affected by the planned 35-day maintenance shutdown of the KIVCET furnace, which occurs once every three to four years.
Annual production records were achieved in 2015 for refined zinc and silver.
Operating costs in the fourth quarter declined to $89 million compared with $103 million a year ago due to cost reduction activities and not having the additional costs that were incurred in the fourth quarter of 2014 related to the KIVCET shutdown.
Capital expenditures in the quarter included $19 million for upgrades to the smelter feed building, $17 million for the water treatment plant and $13 million for various other small projects.
Trail Operations' production in 2016 is expected to be in the range of 290,000 to 300,000 tonnes of refined zinc, 85,000 to 90,000 tonnes of refined lead and 22 to 25 million ounces of silver.
Pend Oreille
Mill throughput was 1,760 tonnes per day in the fourth quarter, or 88% of design capacity of 2,000 tonnes per day. The shortfall in the quarter was due to restricted mine production as a result of delays in fully implementing pillar recovery mining, but the issue was resolved by the end of the year. The concentrator is performing as anticipated with recoveries continuing to improve as mill feed variability is reduced.
Zinc production in the fourth quarter was 8,600 tonnes and lead production was 2,100 tonnes.
Pend Oreille's production in 2016 is expected to be approximately 40,000 tonnes of zinc.
Outlook
We expect zinc in concentrate production in 2016, including co-product zinc production from our copper business unit, to be in the range of 630,000 to 665,000 tonnes.
ENERGY BUSINESS UNIT
Fort Hills Project
Construction of the Fort Hills oil sands project has passed the midway point and is progressing substantially in accordance with the project schedule. In the fourth quarter, our capital expenditures were $302 million compared with a cash spending estimate of $159 million. Our capital expenditures in 2015 were $966 million compared with our cash forecast spending estimate which was $850 million. Capital expenditures in 2015 exceeded plan due to favourable fourth quarter weather conditions which allowed for additional site work and timing of project payments. Our share of Fort Hills cash expenditures in 2016 is estimated at $960 million.
Since sanction, the project has achieved and continues to track to key milestones. Engineering activity is progressing well, and is over 95% complete, construction is progressing per plan and is now over 50% complete. Equipment and material deliveries are continuing and off-site modular fabrication, site civil works and process facility construction are well underway. Site construction workforce is ramping up to peak in mid-2016 through to early 2017. The capital cost and schedule outlook have not changed since we announced project sanction in October 2013. First oil is still expected as early as the fourth quarter of 2017, with 90% of our planned production capacity of 180,000 barrels per day (bpd) expected within 12 months. Our share of production is expected to be 36,000 bpd (13 million barrels per year) of bitumen.
We are continuing to review options to sell diluted bitumen into the North American and overseas markets which may include the use of pipelines from Hardisty or rail to access U.S. Gulf Coast refineries and tidewater ports.
Frontier Energy Project
The Frontier project regulatory application review continues with the provincial and federal regulators. We received a fifth round of information requests from the regulators in the fourth quarter of 2015. We plan to respond to the regulators latest information requests late in the first quarter of 2016. The earliest anticipated first oil date for our Frontier Project is 2026, which reflects time required to receive regulatory permits for the project in light of revisions to the project scope. The regulatory review process is expected to continue through 2016, making 2017 the earliest a decision report is expected. Our expenditures on Frontier are limited to supporting this process. We are evaluating the project schedule and development options as part of our ongoing capital review and prioritization process in response to market conditions.
Wintering Hills Wind Power Facility
During the fourth quarter, our share of the power generation from Wintering Hills was 37 GWhs, resulting in 24,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent offsets. Our share of power generation in 2015 was 136 GWhs, resulting in approximately 85,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent offsets. Our share of expected power generation in 2016 is 135 GWhs, resulting in approximately 85,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent offsets, although actual generation will depend on weather conditions and other factors.
OTHER OPERATING COST AND EXPENSES
Other operating expenses, net of other income, were $73 million in the fourth quarter compared with $100 million a year ago. This includes negative pricing adjustments of $63 million, including adjustments on copper and zinc of $42 million and $18 million, respectively. We also made additional environmental provisions of $35 million and incurred restructuring charges of $19 million. Partly offsetting these expense items was $38 million of gains on the disposal of various assets and a $37 million non-cash gain on the formation of Project Corridor.
The table below outlines our outstanding receivable positions, provisionally valued at December 31 and September 30, 2015.
Outstanding at Outstanding at
December 31, 2015 September 30, 2015
------------------------------------------------
(payable pounds in millions) Pounds US$/lb Pounds US$/lb
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Copper 257 2.13 189 2.30
Zinc 162 0.73 220 0.76
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Finance expense was $80 million in the fourth quarter, similar to a year ago. Debt interest expense increased due to the effect of the stronger U.S. dollar, as all our debt and related interest expense is U.S. dollar denominated. We capitalized a total of $56 million in interest in the quarter compared with $46 million a year ago.
Other non-operating expense of $21 million included foreign exchange losses of $20 million on that portion of our debt which is not offset by investments in U.S. dollar denominated foreign subsidiaries.
Our income and resource taxes recovery for the fourth quarter was $222 million, or 32% of pre-tax loss. This effective tax rate reflects the effect of resource taxes, high taxes in foreign jurisdictions and other non-recurring items. As a result, the tax rate is not comparable with our historical and expected tax rates. Due to available tax pools, we are currently shielded from cash income taxes, but not resource taxes in Canada. We remain subject to cash taxes in foreign jurisdictions.
FINANCIAL POSITION AND LIQUIDITY
Our financial position and liquidity remains strong. Our debt position and credit ratios are summarized in the table below:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
December 31, December 31,
2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Term notes $ 6,839 $ 7,132
Other 122 144
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total debt (US$ in millions) $ 6,961 $ 7,276
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Canadian $ equivalent (1) 9,634 8,441
Less cash balances (1,887) (2,029)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net debt $ 7,747 $ 6,412
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Debt to debt-plus-equity ratio (2) (3) 37% 31%
Net-debt to net-debt-plus-equity ratio (2) 32% 25%
Average interest rate 4.8% 4.8%
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. Translated at period end exchange rates.
2. Non-GAAP financial measure. See "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures"
section for further information.
3. Our revolving credit facility requires us to maintain a debt to debt-
plus-equity ratio not greater than 50%.
Our cash position increased from $1.5 billion to $1.9 billion in the quarter. Significant outflows included $302 million on Fort Hills project expenditures and $398 million for the repayment of a US$300 million note due in October. Significant inflows included $789 million (US$610 million) from the silver streaming agreement with Franco-Nevada related to our Antamina mine. Our cash flow in the quarter was affected by the seasonality of Red Dog sales and the reduction of inventories.
We maintain various committed and uncommitted credit facilities for liquidity and for the issuance of letters of credit. All of our bank credit facilities are unsecured and any borrowings rank pari passu with our outstanding public notes. None of our notes or credit facilities are guaranteed by any of our subsidiaries. We maintain two primary revolving committed credit facilities. Our US$3 billion facility matures in July 2020 and has a letter of credit sub-limit of US$1 billion. Any letters of credit issued under this facility would reduce the amount of the facility that can be drawn for cash. There were no drawings on this facility in 2015 and it remains fully available as at February 10, 2016.
Our US$1.2 billion facility matures in June 2017 and can be drawn fully for cash or for letters of credit. As at February 10, 2016 there are US$740 million of letters of credit issued on this facility. Both facilities require us to pay a commitment fee on undrawn amounts and a specified spread above LIBOR on any drawn amounts, which varies with our credit rating, but does not further vary if our ratings from both Moody's and S&P are below Ba1 or BB high, respectively. Drawings under both facilities are available for general corporate purposes, however, we expect to keep any undrawn portion of the US$1.2 billion facility available for letter of credit requirements that may be required under certain contractual arrangements with counterparties.
Borrowing under our primary committed credit facilities is subject to our compliance with the covenants in the agreement and our ability to make certain representations and warranties at the time of the borrowing request. Our credit facilities, but not our public notes, include a financial covenant that requires us to maintain our debt to debt-plus-equity ratio below 50%. Borrowing under the credit facilities is not conditioned on us maintaining any particular credit rating or there being no general developments that could be expected to have a material adverse effect on us.
We are restricted under our bank and public note covenants from creating liens on certain assets to secure indebtedness unless those liens also secure our credit facilities and notes. We are restricted from creating liens on major assets. There are a number of exceptions from these negative pledge covenants, including an exception for liens securing debt that does not exceed 10% of consolidated net tangible assets. As at December 31, 2015, our consolidated net tangible assets for the purposes of our credit facilities and public notes totaled approximately $32 billion, 10% of which is approximately $3.2 billion.
In addition to our two primary revolving committed credit facilities, we also maintain uncommitted bilateral credit facilities with various banks and with Export Development Canada for the issuance of letters of credit, primarily to support our future reclamation obligations. At December 31, 2015 these facilities totaled $1.7 billion and outstanding letters of credit issued thereunder were $1.5 billion. We expect these amounts to increase by approximately $110 million in 2016. These facilities are typically renewed on an annual basis. From time to time, at our election, we may reduce the fees paid to banks issuing letters of credit by making short-term deposits of excess cash with those banks. The deposits earn a competitive rate of interest and are generally refundable on demand. At December 31, 2015 we had US$529 million of such deposits.
Our reclamation obligations are included in "Other Liabilities and Provisions" on our balance sheet. Associated letters of credit would not become a liability unless the letter of credit is drawn by the beneficiary, which drawing would be triggered if we did not perform our obligations under the relevant contact or permit. In the event of the drawing, we would be required to reimburse the issuing bank for the amount drawn on the letter of credit. Issued letters of credit do not constitute debt for the purpose of the debt-to-debt plus equity covenant in our bank credit agreements.
Since the end of the third quarter, Moody's, Fitch and DBRS revised our credit ratings to Ba3, BB+ and BB (high), respectively, in each case with a negative outlook or trend. S&P currently rates us BB with a negative outlook. On January 21, 2016 Moody's placed certain mining companies, including Teck, on review for downgrade. Based on current market conditions, we expect further rating actions.
As a consequence of the reduction of our credit ratings to below investment grade, we were required in the fourth quarter of 2015 to deliver an aggregate of US$672 million of letters of credit pursuant to long-term power purchase agreements for the Quebrada Blanca Phase 2 project. The letters of credit would be terminated if and when we regain investment grade ratings. There are no requirements to deliver further letters of credit related to the Quebrada Blanca project. We were also required to post $93 million letters of credit under certain pipeline and storage agreements we entered into in connection with the Fort Hills project. These letters of credit will increase as construction of the relevant facilities progresses and could reach approximately $550 million in 2016 and could further increase to approximately $650 million in 2017 at the request of our counterparties prior to the relevant in-service date. Following the in-service date, the letter of credit amount would reduce to a maximum amount of approximately $450 million. These Fort Hills related letters of credit would also be terminated if and when we regain investment grade ratings.
The ratings actions described above do not affect our credit facilities beyond the rate of the commitment fee and cost of borrowing. There are no restrictions on borrowing, or additional covenants, triggered under our credit facilities as a result of the downgrades by the rating agencies.
Operating Cash Flow
Cash flow from operations, before changes in non-cash working capital items, was $428 million in the fourth quarter compared with $491 million a year ago. The reduction was primarily due to substantially lower commodity prices, partly offset by higher sales volumes of copper and zinc and lower income taxes paid due to timing.
Changes in working capital items increased cash by $259 million in the fourth quarter compared with $252 million a year ago. The decrease in working capital in both periods was due to the seasonal drawdown of Red Dog's production inventories and timing of payment of trade payables.
Investing Activities
Expenditures on property, plant and equipment were $532 million in the fourth quarter, including $302 million for the Fort Hills oil sands project, $165 million on sustaining capital and $17 million on major enhancement projects. The largest components of sustaining expenditures were $49 million at our Trail Operations and $31 million at Highland Valley Copper. Major enhancement expenditures included approximately $8 million at our steelmaking coal operations.
Capitalized stripping expenditures were $176 million in the fourth quarter compared with $167 million a year ago. The majority of this item represents the advancement of pits for future production at our steelmaking coal mines.
During the quarter we completed the sale of a silver stream linked to our share of the Antamina mine and received proceeds of $789 million (US$610 million).
The table below summarizes our year-to-date capital spending for 2015:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CAD$ in Major New Mine Sub- Capitalized
millions) Sustaining Enhancement Development total Stripping Total
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Steelmaking
coal $ 67 $ 29 $ 1 $ 97 $ 396 $ 493
Copper 194 16 128 338 201 539
Zinc 126 19 - 145 66 211
Energy 6 - 991 997 - 997
Corporate 4 - - 4 - 4
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 397 $ 64 $ 1,120 $ 1,581 $ 663 $ 2,244
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Financing Activities
Financing activities in the fourth quarter included the repayment of $398 million (US$300 million) of notes that matured on October 1, 2015 and debt interest payments of $40 million (2014 - $34 million). We also paid our semi-annual dividend that totaled $29 million in the fourth quarter.
OUTLOOK
We continue to experience challenging markets for our products. Prices for most of our products have declined and lower prices may persist for some time. Commodity markets have historically been volatile, prices can change rapidly and customers can alter shipment plans. This can have a substantial effect on our business. Reduced steelmaking coal imports by China, partially offset by production curtailments, are continuing to maintain pressure on pricing. We are also significantly affected by foreign exchange rates. In the last twelve months, the U.S. dollar strengthened by approximately 20% against the Canadian dollar, which has had a positive effect on the profitability of our Canadian operations and translation of profits from our foreign operations. It will, to a lesser extent, put upward pressure on the portion of our operating costs and capital spending that is denominated in U.S. dollars.
In October 2013, we approved an estimated $2.9 billion (our share) of expenditures to complete the development of the Fort Hills oil sands project, of which approximately $1.2 billion remains to be spent as at February 10, 2016. We have access to cash and credit lines which are expected to be sufficient to meet our capital commitments and working capital needs over this period. We are taking further steps to manage our capital spending profile and we continuously monitor all aspects of our cost reduction program, our capital spending and key markets as conditions evolve.
Commodity Prices and 2016 Production
Commodity prices are a key driver of our profit. On the supply side, the depleting nature of ore reserves, difficulties in finding new ore bodies, the permitting processes, the availability of skilled resources to develop projects, as well as infrastructure constraints, political risk and significant cost inflation may continue to have a moderating effect on the growth in future production for the industry as a whole. We believe that over the longer term the industrialization of emerging market economies will continue to be a major positive factor in the future demand for commodities. Therefore, we believe that the long-term price environment for the products that we produce and sell remains favourable.
The sensitivity of our annual profit attributable to shareholders and EBITDA to changes in the Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate and commodity prices, before pricing adjustments, based on our current balance sheet, our expected 2016 mid-range production estimates, and current commodity prices and a Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate of $1.40, is as follows:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2016 Mid-Range Estimated Estimated
Effect of
Production Change Effect on
Estimates (1) Change On Profit (2) EBITDA (2)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
US$ exchange CAD$0.01 $ 22 million $ 34 million
Steelmaking coal
(000's tonnes) 25,500 US$1/tonne $ 23 million $ 35 million
Copper (tonnes) 312,000 US$0.01/lb $ 6 million $ 9 million
Zinc (tonnes) (3) 940,000 US$0.01/lb $ 9 million $ 14 million
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. All production estimates are subject to change based on market and
operating conditions.
2. The effect on our profit attributable to shareholders and on EBITDA of
commodity price and exchange rate movements will vary from quarter to
quarter depending on sales volumes. Our estimate of the sensitivity of
profit and EBITDA to changes in the U.S. dollar exchange rate is
sensitive to commodity price assumptions.
3. Zinc includes 295,000 tonnes of refined zinc and 645,000 tonnes of zinc
contained in concentrate.
The decline in our estimated foreign exchange sensitivity from previous estimates is primarily due to the effect of lower commodity prices, which are all denominated in U.S. dollars.
Foreign exchange translation gains and losses on our U.S. dollar denominated debt arising from exchange rate fluctuations may have some effect on our 2016 profit although most our U.S. dollar debt is expected to be designated as a hedge against our investments in U.S. dollar denominated foreign operations.
While the extent of the oversupply of steelmaking coal was reduced during 2015 due to acceleration in the implementation of production curtailments, we believe that steelmaking coal prices continue to trade at unsustainably low long-term levels, which are currently approximately 20% below 2015 averages. Copper and zinc prices to date in 2016 are both trading approximately 18% below 2015 average prices. The fluctuations in the Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate can have a significant effect on our profit and financial position. The Canadian dollar, to date in 2016, has averaged approximately $1.40 against the U.S. dollar compared with $1.28 on average for 2015.
Our steelmaking coal production in 2016 is expected to be in the range of 25 to 26 million tonnes compared with 25.3 million tonnes produced in 2015. Our actual production will depend primarily on customer demand for deliveries of steelmaking coal. Depending on market conditions and the sales outlook, we may adjust our production plans.
Our copper production for 2016 is expected to decrease and be in the range of 305,000 to 320,000 tonnes compared with 358,000 tonnes produced in 2015. Highland Valley Copper is expected to decrease production by approximately 35,000 tonnes as a result of mining lower ore grades. Production from Quebrada Blanca is expected to decrease by approximately 6,500 tonnes as grades are declining with the depletion of the orebody. Production from Antamina rises slightly in 2016. Duck Pond was permanently closed at the end of June 2015.
Our zinc in concentrate production in 2016 is expected to be in the range of 630,000 to 665,000 tonnes compared with 657,500 tonnes produced in 2015. Red Dog's production is expected to decrease by approximately 10,000 tonnes primarily due to lower ore grades. With a full year of operations in 2016, Pend Oreille is expected to produce 40,000 tonnes of zinc. Duck Pond was permanently closed at the end of June 2015. Our share of Antamina's zinc production is expected to be 50,000 tonnes, similar to 2015 levels. Refined zinc production in 2016 from our Trail Operations is expected to be in the range of 290,000 to 300,000 tonnes compared with a record 307,000 tonnes produced in 2015.
Capital Expenditures
Our forecast approved capital expenditures for 2016, before capitalized stripping costs, are approximately $1.4 billion and are summarized in the following table:
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Major New Mine Sub- Capitalized
($ in millions) Sustaining Enhancement Development total Stripping Total
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Steelmaking
coal $ 50 $ 40 $ - $ 90 $ 290 $ 380
Copper 120 5 80 205 190 395
Zinc 130 10 - 140 60 200
Energy 5 - 1,000 1,005 - 1,005
Corporate - - - - - -
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 305 $ 55 $ 1,080$ 1,440 $ 540$ 1,980
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
New mine development includes $80 million for permitting activities for Quebrada Blanca Phase 2, $960 million for Fort Hills and $40 million for permitting activities on the Frontier oil sands project. The amount and timing of actual capital expenditures is also dependent upon being able to secure permits, equipment, supplies, materials and labour on a timely basis and at expected costs to enable the projects to be completed as currently anticipated. We may change capital spending plans in 2016, depending on commodity markets, our financial position, results of feasibility studies and other factors.
Foreign Exchange, Debt Revaluation and Interest Expense
The sales of our products are denominated in U.S. dollars, while a significant portion of our expenses are incurred in local currencies, particularly the Canadian dollar and the Chilean peso. Foreign exchange fluctuations can have a significant effect on our operating margins, unless such fluctuations are offset by related changes to commodity prices.
Our U.S. dollar denominated debt is subject to revaluation based on changes in the Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate. As at December 31, 2015, $5.5 billion of our U.S. dollar denominated debt is designated as a hedge against our foreign operations that have a U.S. dollar functional currency. As a result, any foreign exchange gains or losses arising on that amount of our U.S. dollar debt are recorded in other comprehensive income. The remaining portion of foreign exchange gains or losses on our U.S. dollar denominated debt, less U.S. dollar working capital balances, is charged to profit. As at December 31, 2015, we were exposed to foreign exchange gains or losses on approximately US$375 million on our balance sheet.
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DERIVATIVES
We hold a number of financial instruments and derivatives which are recorded on our balance sheet at fair value with gains and losses in each period included in other comprehensive income and profit for the period as appropriate. The most significant of these instruments are marketable securities, foreign exchange forward sales contracts, metal-related forward contracts and settlements receivable and payable. Some of our gains and losses on metal-related financial instruments are affected by smelter price participation and are taken into account in determining royalties and other expenses. All are subject to varying rates of taxation depending on their nature and jurisdiction.
QUARTERLY PROFIT AND CASH FLOW
(in millions, except for
share data) 2015
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Revenues $ 2,135 $ 2,101 $ 1,999 $ 2,024
Gross profit 281 339 311 348
EBITDA (1) (269) (2,506) 596 546
Profit (loss) attributable
to shareholders (459) (2,146) 63 68
Earnings(loss) per share $ (0.80) $ (3.73) $ 0.11 $ 0.12
Cash flow from operations 687 560 332 372
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(in millions, except for
share data) 2014
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Revenues $ 2,256 $ 2,250 $ 2,009 $ 2,084
Gross profit 416 414 298 407
EBITDA (1) 582 651 558 557
Profit (loss) attributable
to shareholders 129 84 80 69
Earnings(loss) per share $ 0.23 $ 0.14 $ 0.14 $ 0.12
Cash flow from operations 743 554 436 545
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. Non-GAAP financial measure. See "Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures"
section for further information.
OUTSTANDING SHARE DATA
As at February 10, 2016 there were 566.9 million Class B subordinate voting shares and 9.4 million Class A common shares outstanding. In addition, there were approximately 24.7 million stock options outstanding with exercise prices ranging between $4.15 and $58.80 per share. Approximately 8.8 million were granted in January 2016. More information on these instruments and the terms of their conversion is set out in Note 19 of our 2014 audited financial statements.
INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Any system of internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well designed, has inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. There have been no significant changes in our internal controls during the quarter ended December 31, 2015 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting.
REVENUES AND GROSS PROFIT
Our revenues and gross profit by business unit are summarized in the tables below:
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(Teck's share in CAD$
millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
REVENUES
Steelmaking coal $ 701 $ 824 $ 3,049 $ 3,335
Copper
Highland Valley Copper 264 224 999 943
Antamina 168 181 634 659
Quebrada Blanca 65 94 288 375
Carmen de Andacollo 122 128 442 504
Duck Pond - 29 53 96
Other - - 6 9
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
619 656 2,422 2,586
Zinc
Trail 463 419 1,847 1,699
Red Dog 419 426 1,220 1,240
Pend Oreille 14 - 47 -
Other 1 3 7 11
Inter-segment sales (83) (73) (337) (275)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
814 775 2,784 2,675
Energy 1 1 4 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL REVENUES $ 2,135 $ 2,256 $ 8,259 $ 8,599
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
GROSS PROFIT (LOSS)
Steelmaking coal $ 29 $ 56 $ 200 $ 208
Copper
Highland Valley Copper 78 37 278 265
Antamina 73 96 304 373
Quebrada Blanca (58) 12 (141) (16)
Carmen de Andacollo (17) 10 (4) 67
Duck Pond - (10) (17) (21)
Other - 4 6 10
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
76 149 426 678
Zinc
Trail 39 12 124 76
Red Dog 149 200 537 574
Pend Oreille (9) - (15) -
Other (3) (1) 9 (1)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
176 211 655 649
Energy - - (2) -
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL GROSS PROFIT $ 281 $ 416 $ 1,279 $ 1,535
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
COST OF SALES SUMMARY
Our cost of sales information by business unit is summarized in the tables below:
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(Teck's share in CAD$
millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATING COSTS
Steelmaking coal $ 276 $ 335 $ 1,204 $ 1,409
Copper
Highland Valley Copper 128 142 513 484
Antamina 69 55 192 171
Quebrada Blanca 85 56 302 251
Carmen de Andacollo 111 85 336 312
Duck Pond - 27 53 72
Other - (4) - (1)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
393 361 1,396 1,289
Zinc
Trail 89 103 384 393
Red Dog 127 85 304 252
Pend Oreille 20 - 54 -
Other 4 4 (2) 9
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 240 $ 192 $ 740 $ 654
Energy - - 1 -
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total operating costs $ 909 $ 888 $ 3,341 $ 3,352
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
TRANSPORTATION COSTS
Steelmaking coal $ 226 $ 253 $ 931 $ 996
Copper
Highland Valley Copper 10 10 37 40
Antamina 6 5 19 19
Quebrada Blanca 1 1 5 6
Carmen de Andacollo 2 7 20 28
Duck Pond - 2 2 6
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
19 25 83 99
Zinc
Trail 36 33 138 122
Red Dog 56 43 138 135
Pend Oreille 1 - 2 -
Other - - - 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
93 76 278 260
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total transportation costs $ 338 $ 354 $ 1,292 $ 1,355
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONCENTRATE PURCHASES
Trail $ 279 $ 251 $ 1,120 $ 1,042
Inter-segment purchases (83) (73) (337) (275)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total concentrate purchases $ 196 $ 178 $ 783 $ 767
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROYALTY COSTS
Steelmaking coal $ 2 $ 2 $ 8 $ 10
Copper
Highland Valley Copper - (7) - -
Antamina 4 2 11 19
Duck Pond - 1 1 2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 (4) 12 21
Zinc
Red Dog 72 81 178 215
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total royalty costs $ 78 $ 79 $ 198 $ 246
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPRECIATION AND
AMORTIZATION
Steelmaking coal $ 168 $ 178 $ 706 $ 712
Copper
Highland Valley Copper 48 42 171 154
Antamina 16 23 108 77
Quebrada Blanca 37 25 122 134
Carmen de Andacollo 26 26 90 97
Duck Pond - 9 14 37
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
127 125 505 499
Zinc
Trail 20 20 81 66
Red Dog 15 17 63 64
Pend Oreille 2 - 6 -
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
37 37 150 130
Energy 1 1 5 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total depreciation and
amortization $ 333 $ 341 $ 1,366 $ 1,344
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL COST OF SALES $ 1,854 $ 1,840 $ 6,980 $ 7,064
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
CAPITALIZED STRIPPING COSTS
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(Teck's share in CAD$
millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Steelmaking coal $ 103 $ 94 $ 396 $ 443
Copper
Highland Valley Copper 30 27 124 123
Antamina 19 16 67 63
Quebrada Blanca 1 10 8 35
Carmen de Andacollo - 1 2 4
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
50 54 201 225
Zinc
Red Dog 23 19 66 47
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total $ 176 $ 167 $ 663 $ 715
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRODUCTION AND SALES STATISTICS
Production statistics for each of our operations are presented in the tables below. Operating results are on a 100% basis.
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
Steelmaking coal 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Waste production (million
BCM's) 64.3 68.8 260.4 274.0
Steelmaking coal production
(million tonnes) 6.4 6.8 25.3 26.7
Steelmaking coal strip ratio
(waste BCM's/steelmaking coal
tonnes) 9.7:1 9.8:1 9.9:1 9.9:1
Sales (million tonnes) 6.5 6.5 26.0 26.2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Highland Valley Copper
Tonnes mined (000's) 30,125 32,235 116,231 124,217
Tonnes milled (000's) 12,698 13,720 47,257 49,932
Copper
Grade (%) 0.37 0.25 0.37 0.29
Recovery (%) 87.5 84.8 87.9 84.9
Production (000's tonnes) 41.2 29.5 151.4 121.5
Sales (000's tonnes) 43.9 31.0 150.4 124.6
Molybdenum
Production (million pounds) 0.9 1.3 3.4 5.2
Sales (million pounds) 0.7 1.1 3.7 4.9
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Antamina
Tonnes mined (000's) 52,130 43,793 215,653 194,102
Tonnes milled (000's)
Copper-only ore 9,765 9,019 37,163 35,107
Copper-zinc ore 4,419 4,576 19,033 15,343
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
14,184 13,595 56,196 50,450
Copper (1)
Grade (%) 0.92 0.74 0.83 0.83
Recovery (%) 88.1 82.0 83.4 82.8
Production (000's tonnes) 114.3 83.9 390.6 344.9
Sales (000's tonnes) 131.9 91.0 388.0 346.6
Zinc (1)
Grade (%) 1.37 1.50 1.52 1.66
Recovery (%) 82.0 79.0 81.4 82.6
Production (000's tonnes) 58.0 57.5 235.0 211.0
Sales (000's tonnes) 72.0 75.8 241.8 208.3
Molybdenum
Production (million pounds) 1.5 0.5 4.4 3.1
Sales (million pounds) 0.9 0.6 4.0 4.1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. Copper ore grades and recoveries apply to all of the processed ores. Zinc
ore grades and recoveries apply to copper-zinc ores only.
PRODUCTION AND SALES STATISTICS, continued
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
Quebrada Blanca 2015 2014 2015 2014
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tonnes mined (000's) 5,588 8,635 22,923 34,520
Tonnes placed (000's)
Heap leach ore 1,536 1,657 5,962 6,026
Dump leach ore 790 1,063 3,262 6,584
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
2,326 2,720 9,224 12,610
Grade (SCu%) (1)
Heap leach ore 0.48 0.65 0.60 0.68
Dump leach ore 0.18 0.27 0.26 0.25
Production (000's tonnes)
Heap leach ore 5.7 6.8 23.2 30.3
Dump leach ore 3.6 5.6 15.9 17.7
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
9.3 12.4 39.1 48.0
Sales (000's tonnes) 9.7 12.3 40.0 48.9
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. For heap leach and dump leach operations, copper grade is reported as %
soluble copper (SCu%) rather than % total copper.
Carmen de Andacollo
Tonnes mined (000's) 7,644 7,746 28,362 29,962
Tonnes milled (000's) 4,520 4,453 17,309 17,676
Copper
Grade (%) 0.45 0.45 0.45 0.44
Recovery (%) 89.8 88.9 88.6 87.0
Production (000's tonnes) 18.2 17.8 68.3 67.5
Sales (000's tonnes) 20.4 18.1 66.9 69.4
Gold (1)
Production (000's ounces) - 12.3 22.1 47.5
Sales (000's ounces) - 11.0 19.7 42.8
Copper cathode
Production (000's tonnes) 1.3 1.1 4.7 4.3
Sales (000's tonnes) 1.4 1.3 4.7 4.4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. Carmen de Andacollo processes 100% of gold mined, but 75% of the gold
produced is for the account of Royal Gold Inc. up to June 2015. From July
2015 and onwards, 100% of the gold produced is for the account of Royal
Gold Inc.
PRODUCTION AND SALES STATISTICS, continued
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
Duck Pond 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tonnes mined (000's) - 81 176 666
Tonnes milled (000's) - 173 310 658
Copper
Production (000's tonnes) - 3.2 6.1 14.2
Sales (000's tonnes) - 3.7 8.1 13.1
Zinc
Production (000's tonnes) - 2.9 7.0 16.2
Sales (000's tonnes) - 5.8 7.8 15.9
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trail
Concentrate treated (000's
tonnes)
Zinc 141 140 553 515
Lead 42 23 144 133
Metal production
Zinc (000's tonnes) 78.8 73.1 307.0 277.4
Lead (000's tonnes) 23.8 15.6 83.5 82.1
Silver (million ounces) 6.8 4.3 23.5 21.0
Gold (000's ounces) 14.6 10.5 56.0 50.7
Metal sales
Zinc (000's tonnes) 79.5 72.7 308.0 276.9
Lead (000's tonnes) 24.0 17.7 82.5 77.9
Silver (million ounces) 7.0 4.2 23.5 20.6
Gold (000's ounces) 13.6 9.3 56.1 49.7
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Red Dog
Tonnes mined (000's) 3,434 3,854 12,496 12,930
Tonnes milled (000's) 933 1,098 4,026 4,300
Zinc
Grade (%) 17.2 16.7 16.7 16.6
Recovery (%) 84.7 84.6 84.2 83.3
Production (000's tonnes) 136.2 155.1 567.0 596.0
Sales (000's tonnes) 213.0 179.0 613.3 594.1
Lead
Grade (%) 4.7 4.3 4.8 4.4
Recovery (%) 66.3 78.9 60.7 65.3
Production (000's tonnes) 29.2 37.3 117.6 122.5
Sales (000's tonnes) 62.1 49.0 120.0 112.8
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRODUCTION AND SALES STATISTICS, continued
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
Pend Oreille (1) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tonnes mined (000's) 186 - 619 -
Tonnes milled (000's) 161 - 593 -
Zinc
Grade (%) 6.0 - 6.0 -
Recovery (%) 87.8 - 85.7 -
Production (000's tonnes) 8.6 - 30.7 -
Sales (000's tonnes) 8.6 - 30.7 -
Lead
Grade (%) 1.9 - 1.5 -
Recovery (%) 71.9 - 72.3 -
Production (000's tonnes) 2.1 - 6.6 -
Sales (000's tonnes) 2.1 - 6.6 -
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. Includes pre-commercial production and sales in the first quarter.
USE OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
Our financial results are prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). This document refers to gross profit before depreciation and amortization, gross profit margins before depreciation, EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted profit, adjusted earnings per share, cash unit costs, adjusted cash costs of sales, cash margins for by-products, adjusted revenues, net debt, debt to debt-plus-equity ratio, and the net debt to net debt-plus-equity ratio, which are not measures recognized under IFRS in Canada and do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS or Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) in the United States.
Gross profit before depreciation and amortization is gross profit with the depreciation and amortization expense added back. EBITDA is profit attributable to shareholders before net finance expense, income and resource taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Adjusted EBITDA is EBITDA before impairment charges. For adjusted profit, we adjust profit attributable to shareholders as reported to remove the effect of certain types of transactions that in our judgment are not indicative of our normal operating activities or do not necessarily occur on a regular basis. This both highlights these items and allows us to analyze the rest of our results more clearly. We believe that disclosing these measures assists readers in understanding the cash generating potential of our business in order to provide liquidity to fund working capital needs, service outstanding debt, fund future capital expenditures and investment opportunities, and pay dividends.
Gross profit margins before depreciation are gross profit before depreciation and amortization, divided by revenues for each respective business unit.
Unit costs are calculated by dividing the cost of sales for the principal product by sales volumes. We include this information as it is frequently requested by investors and investment analysts who use it to assess our cost structure and margins and compare it to similar information provided by many companies in our industry.
We sell both copper concentrates and refined copper cathodes. The price for concentrates sold to smelters is based on average London Metal Exchange (LME) prices over a defined quotational period, from which processing and refining deductions are made. In addition, we are paid for an agreed percentage of the copper contained in concentrates, which constitutes payable pounds. Adjusted revenues excludes the revenues from co-products and by-products, but adds back the processing and refining allowances to arrive at the value of the underlying payable pounds of copper. Readers may compare this on a per unit basis with the price of copper on the London Metal Exchange.
Adjusted cash cost of sales for our steelmaking coal operations is defined as the cost of the product as it leaves the mine excluding depreciation and amortization charges and inventory write-down charges. Adjusted cash cost of sales for our copper operations is defined as the cost of the product delivered to the port of shipment, excluding depreciation and amortization charges, inventory write-down charges, or one-time collective bargaining labour settlement charges. It is common practice in the industry to exclude depreciation and amortization as these costs are 'non-cash' and discounted cash flow valuation models used in the industry substitute expectations of future capital spending for these amounts. In order to arrive at adjusted cash costs of sales for copper we also deduct the costs of by-products and co-products. Total cash unit costs include the smelter and refining allowances added back in determining adjusted revenues. This presentation allows a comparison of unit costs, including smelter allowances, to the underlying price of copper in order to assess the margin. Unit costs, after deducting coproduct and by-product margins, are also a common industry measure. By deducting the co and by-product margin per unit of the principal product, the margin for the mine on a per unit basis may be presented in a single metric for comparison to other operations. Readers should be aware that this metric, by excluding certain items and reclassifying cost and revenues items, distorts our actual production costs as determined under GAAP.
Net debt is total debt less cash and cash equivalents. The debt to debt-plus-equity ratio takes total debt as reported and divides that by the sum of total debt plus total equity. The net debt to net debt-plus-equity ratio is net debt divided by the sum of net debt plus total equity, expressed as a percentage. These measures are disclosed as we believe they provide readers with information that allows them to assess our credit capacity and the ability to meet our short and long-term financial obligations.
The measures described above do not have standardized meanings under IFRS, may differ from those used by other issuers, and may not be comparable to such measures as reported by others. These measures have been derived from our financial statements and applied on a consistent basis as appropriate. We disclose these measures because we believe they assist readers in understanding the results of our operations and financial position and are meant to provide further information about our financial results to investors. These measures should not be considered in isolation or used in substitute for other measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.
Reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit (loss) attributable
to shareholders $ (459) $ 129 $ (2,474) $ 362
Finance expense net of
finance income 79 80 311 300
Provision for income and
resource taxes (222) 32 (836) 342
Depreciation and
amortization 333 341 1,366 1,344
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
EBITDA $ (269) $ 582 $ (1,633) $ 2,348
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Impairments 736 - 3,631 12
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted EBITDA $ 467 $ 582 $ 1,998 $ 2,360
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reconciliation of Gross Profit Before Depreciation and Amortization
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit $ 281 $ 416 $ 1,279 $ 1,535
Depreciation and amortization 333 341 1,366 1,344
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit before depreciation
and amortization $ 614 $ 757 $ 2,645 $ 2,879
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reported as:
Steelmaking coal $ 197 $ 234 $ 906 $ 920
Copper
Highland Valley Copper 126 79 449 419
Antamina 89 119 412 450
Quebrada Blanca (21) 37 (19) 118
Carmen de Andacollo 9 36 86 164
Duck Pond - (1) (3) 16
Other - 4 6 10
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
203 274 931 1,177
Zinc
Trail 59 32 205 142
Red Dog 164 217 600 638
Pend Oreille (7) - (9) -
Other (3) (1) 9 (1)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
213 248 805 779
Energy 1 1 3 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit before depreciation
and amortization $ 614 $ 757 $ 2,645 $ 2,879
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Steelmaking Coal Unit Cost Reconciliation
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions, except
where noted) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost of sales as reported $ 672 $ 768 $ 2,849 $ 3,127
Less:
Transportation (226) (253) (931) (996)
Depreciation and
amortization (168) (178) (706) (712)
Inventory write-downs (13) (23) (45) (89)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted cash cost of sales $ 265 $ 314 $ 1,167 $ 1,330
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tonnes sold (millions) 6.5 6.5 26.0 26.2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per unit costs - CAD$/tonne
Adjusted cash cost of
sales $ 41 $ 48 $ 45 $ 51
Transportation 35 39 36 38
Inventory write-downs 2 4 2 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash unit costs - CAD$/tonne $ 78 $ 91 $ 83 $ 92
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
US$ AMOUNTS
Average exchange rate (CAD$
per US$1.00) $ 1.34 $ 1.14 $ 1.28 $ 1.10
Per unit costs - US$/tonne
(1)
Adjusted cash cost of
sales $ 31 $ 42 $ 35 $ 46
Transportation 26 34 28 35
Inventory write-downs 1 3 1 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash unit costs - US$/tonne $ 58 $ 79 $ 64 $ 84
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note:
1. Average period exchange rates are used to convert to US$/tonne
equivalent.
Copper Unit Cost Reconciliation
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions, except
where noted) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues as reported $ 619 $ 656 $ 2,422 $ 2,586
By-product revenues (A) (1) (38) (75) (229) (269)
Smelter processing charges 69 48 229 174
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted revenues $ 650 $ 629 $ 2,422 $ 2,491
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost of sales as reported $ 543 $ 507 $ 1,996 $ 1,908
Less:
Depreciation and
amortization (127) (125) (505) (499)
Inventory write-downs (20) - (61) -
Labour settlement charge (13) - (13) -
By-product cost of sales
(B) (1) (11) (13) (44) (37)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Adjusted cash cost of sales $ 372 $ 369 $ 1,373 $ 1,372
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Payable pounds sold
(millions) © 226.0 185.7 764.8 723.7
Adjusted per unit cash costs
- CAD$/pound
Adjusted cash cost of
sales $ 1.65 $ 1.98 $ 1.79 $ 1.90
Smelter processing charges 0.30 0.26 0.30 0.24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total cash unit costs -
CAD$/pound (D) $ 1.95 $ 2.24 $ 2.09 $ 2.14
Cash margin for by-products
- CAD$/pound ((A - B)/C)
(1) $ (0.12) $ (0.33) $ (0.24) $ (0.32)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash unit cost
CAD$/pound (2) $ 1.83 $ 1.91 $ 1.85 $ 1.82
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
US$ AMOUNTS
Average exchange rate (CAD$
per US$1.00) (E) $ 1.34 $ 1.14 $ 1.28 $ 1.10
Adjusted per unit costs -
US$/pound (3)
Adjusted cash cost of
sales $ 1.23 $ 1.75 $ 1.40 $ 1.72
Smelter processing charges 0.23 0.23 0.24 0.22
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total cash unit costs -
US$/pound (1) $ 1.46 $ 1.98 $ 1.64 $ 1.94
Cash margin for by-products
- US$/pound $ (0.09) $ (0.29) $ (0.19) $ (0.29)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash unit costs -
US$/pound $ 1.37 $ 1.69 $ 1.45 $ 1.65
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. By-products includes both by-products and co-products.
2. Net unit cost cash cost of principal product after deducting co-product
and by-product margins per unit of principal product and excluding
depreciation and amortization.
3. Average period exchange rates are used to convert to US$/lb equivalent.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements as defined in applicable securities laws. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements, principally under the headings "Outlook," that appear in this release but also elsewhere in this document, include estimates, forecasts, and statements as to management's expectations with respect to, among other things, anticipated cost and production forecasts at our business units and individual operations and expectation that we will meet our production guidance, sales volume and selling prices for our products (including settlement of coal contracts with customers), our target to complete 2016 with approximately $500 million in cash, plans and expectations for our development projects, the impact of currency exchange rates, the expected timing of production at the Fort Hills oil sands project and its economic benefits, our expectations that our Quebrada Blanca Phase 2 initiatives will materially reduce initial capital costs for the project and other expectations regarding the new design and cost process, timing for the filing of an SEIA, timing for the completion of the Project Corridor feasibility study 2016, capital expenditure projections, sensitivity of EBITDA to exchange rates and the price of oil, expectations that we have access to cash and credit lines sufficient to meet our capital commitments and working capital needs, and demand and market outlook for commodities. These forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties and actual results may vary materially.
These statements are based on a number of assumptions, including, but not limited to, assumptions regarding general business and economic conditions, the supply and demand for, deliveries of, and the level and volatility of prices of, zinc, copper and steelmaking coal and other primary metals and minerals as well as oil, and related products, the timing of the receipt of regulatory and governmental approvals for our development projects and other operations, our costs of production and production and productivity levels, as well as those of our competitors, power prices, continuing availability of water and power resources for our operations, market competition, the accuracy of our reserve estimates (including with respect to size, grade and recoverability) and the geological, operational and price assumptions on which these are based, conditions in financial markets, the future financial performance of the company, our ability to attract and retain skilled staff, our ability to procure equipment and operating supplies, positive results from the studies on our expansion projects, our steelmaking coal and other product inventories, our ability to secure adequate transportation for our products, our ability to obtain permits for our operations and expansions, our ongoing relations with our employees and business partners and joint venturers. Assumptions regarding the sensitivity of EBITDA and operating costs to oil prices are based on assumptions regarding the amount of diesel fuel used in our operations and transporting our coal products is as forecast, and also based on an assumed Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate of $1.40. Our forecast of $500 million in cash at the end of 2016 is based on an assumed Canadian/U.S. dollar exchange rate of $1.40, current commodity prices and assumes no unusual transactions or events occur and that we meet our full year guidance for production, costs and capital expenditures. Assumptions regarding the impact of foreign exchange are based on current commodity prices. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive. Events or circumstances could cause actual results to vary materially.
Factors that may cause actual results to vary materially include, but are not limited to, changes in commodity and power prices, changes in market demand for our products, changes in interest and currency exchange rates, acts of foreign governments and the outcome of legal proceedings, inaccurate geological and metallurgical assumptions (including with respect to the size, grade and recoverability of mineral reserves and resources), unanticipated operational difficulties (including failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate in accordance with specifications or expectations, cost escalation, unavailability of materials and equipment, government action or delays in the receipt of government approvals, industrial disturbances or other job action, adverse weather conditions and unanticipated events related to health, safety and environmental matters), union labour disputes, political risk, social unrest, failure of customers or counterparties to perform their contractual obligations, changes in our credit ratings, unanticipated increases in costs to construct our development projects, difficulty in obtaining permits, inability to address concerns regarding permits of environmental impact assessments, and changes or further deterioration in general economic conditions. Our Fort Hills project is not controlled by us and construction and production schedules may be adjusted by our partners.
Statements concerning future production costs or volumes are based on numerous assumptions of management regarding operating matters and on assumptions that demand for products develops as anticipated, that customers and other counterparties perform their contractual obligations, that operating and capital plans will not be disrupted by issues such as mechanical failure, unavailability of parts and supplies, labour disturbances, interruption in transportation or utilities, adverse weather conditions, and that there are no material unanticipated variations in the cost of energy or supplies. Statements regarding anticipated steelmaking coal sales volumes and average steelmaking coal prices for the quarter depend on timely arrival of vessels and performance of our steelmaking coal-loading facilities, as well as the level of spot pricing sales.
We assume no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required under securities laws. Further information concerning risks and uncertainties associated with these forward-looking statements and our business can be found in our Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2014, filed under our profile on SEDAR (www.sedar.com) and on EDGAR (www.sec.gov) under cover of Form 40-F.
WEBCAST
Teck will host an Investor Conference Call to discuss its Q4/2015 financial results at 11:00 AM Eastern time, 8:00 AM Pacific time, on Thursday, February 11, 2016. A live audio webcast of the conference call, together with supporting presentation slides, will be available at our website at www.teck.com. The webcast will be archived at www.teck.com.
Teck Resources Limited
Condensed Interim Consolidated Financial Statements
For the Year Ended December 31, 2015
(Unaudited)
Teck Resources Limited
Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss)
(Unaudited)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions, except
for share data) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues $ 2,135 $ 2,256 $ 8,259 $ 8,599
Cost of sales (1,854) (1,840) (6,980) (7,064)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit 281 416 1,279 1,535
Other operating expenses
General and administration (30) (36) (108) (119)
Exploration (21) (20) (76) (60)
Research and development (11) (6) (47) (29)
Asset impairments (736) - (3,631) (12)
Other operating income
(expense) (Note 1) (73) (100) (335) (267)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit (loss) from
operations (590) 254 (2,918) 1,048
Finance income 1 1 5 4
Finance expense (Note 2) (80) (81) (316) (304)
Non-operating income
(expense) (Note 3) (21) (6) (89) (21)
Share of losses of
associates and joint
ventures (1) (1) (2) (3)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit (loss) before tax (691) 167 (3,320) 724
Recovery of (provision for)
income taxes 222 (32) 836 (342)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit (loss) for the period$ (469)$ 135 $ (2,484)$ 382
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit (loss) attributable
to:
Shareholders of the
company $ (459)$ 129 $ (2,474)$ 362
Non-controlling interests (10) 6 (10) 20
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Profit (loss) for the period$ (469)$ 135 $ (2,484)$ 382
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings (loss) per share
Basic $ (0.80)$ 0.23 $ (4.29)$ 0.63
Diluted $ (0.80)$ 0.23 $ (4.29)$ 0.63
Weighted average shares
outstanding (millions) 576.2 576.1 576.2 576.2
Shares outstanding at end of
period (millions) 576.3 576.1 576.3 576.1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teck Resources Limited
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating activities
Profit (loss) for the
period $ (469) $ 135 $ (2,484) $ 382
Items not affecting
operating cash flows:
Depreciation and
amortization 333 341 1,366 1,344
Provision for
(recovery of)
income taxes (222) 32 (836) 342
Asset impairments 736 - 3,631 12
Loss (gain) on sale
of investments and
assets (75) 1 (120) 2
Foreign exchange
losses 20 3 76 9
Finance expense 80 81 316 304
Income taxes paid (25) (106) (255) (406)
Other 50 4 54 6
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
428 491 1,748 1,995
Net change in non-cash
working capital items 259 252 203 283
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
687 743 1,951 2,278
Investing activities
Purchase of property,
plant and equipment (532) (420) (1,581) (1,498)
Capitalized production
stripping costs (176) (167) (663) (715)
Expenditures on
financial investments
and other assets (13) (12) (82) (44)
Proceeds from the sale
of investments and
other assets 831 17 1,222 34
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
110 (582) (1,104) (2,223)
Financing activities
Issuance of debt - - 28 12
Repayment of debt (406) (16) (476) (70)
Debt interest paid (40) (34) (444) (381)
Purchase and
cancellation of Class
B subordinate voting
shares - - - (5)
Dividends paid (29) - (374) (518)
Distributions to non-
controlling interests (1) (6) (27) (23)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
(476) (56) (1,293) (985)
Effect of exchange rate
changes on cash and
cash equivalents 79 71 304 187
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Increase (decrease) in
cash and cash
equivalents 400 176 (142) (743)
Cash and cash
equivalents at
beginning of period 1,487 1,853 2,029 2,772
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash
equivalents at end of
period $ 1,887 $ 2,029 $ 1,887 $ 2,029
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teck Resources Limited
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents $ 1,887 $ 2,029
Current income tax receivable 183 100
Trade accounts receivable 1,115 1,036
Inventories 1,620 1,752
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
4,805 4,917
Financial and other assets 936 894
Investments in associates and joint
ventures 939 32
Property, plant and equipment 26,791 28,925
Deferred income tax assets 90 361
Goodwill 1,127 1,710
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 34,688 $ 36,839
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities
Trade accounts payable and other
liabilities $ 1,673 $ 1,663
Dividends payable - 259
Current income taxes payable 25 59
Debt 28 428
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,726 2,409
Debt 9,606 8,013
Deferred income tax liabilities 4,828 6,091
Deferred consideration 785 -
Retirement benefit liabilities 591 572
Other liabilities and provisions 515 918
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 18,051 $ 18,003
Equity
Attributable to shareholders of the
company 16,407 18,606
Attributable to non-controlling
interests 230 230
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
16,637 18,836
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 34,688 $ 36,839
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teck Resources Limited
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
1. OTHER OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSE)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Settlement pricing
adjustments $ (63) $ (70) $ (280) $ (130)
Share-based compensation (6) 4 (13) (12)
Environmental and care and
maintenance costs (35) (17) (49) (52)
Social responsibility and
donations (4) (4) (10) (15)
Gain (loss) on sale of
assets 38 (1) 74 (2)
Gain on Project Corridor 37 - 37 -
Commodity derivatives (5) (7) (12) (7)
Restructuring (19) (1) (22) (11)
Other (16) (4) (60) (38)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ (73) $ (100) $ (335) $ (267)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
2. FINANCE EXPENSE
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Debt interest $ 109 $ 99 $ 434 $ 384
Letters of credit and
standby fees 6 4 20 9
Financing fees and discount
amortization 2 2 8 7
Net interest expense on
retirement benefit plans 3 4 13 16
Accretion on decommissioning
and restoration provisions 14 18 59 70
Other 2 - 4 1
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
136 127 538 487
Less capitalized borrowing
costs (56) (46) (222) (183)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 80 $ 81 $ 316 $ 304
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
3. NON-OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSE)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Three months Year ended
ended December 31, December 31,
(CAD$ in millions) 2015 2014 2015 2014
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foreign exchange gains
(losses) $ (20) $ (3) $ (76) $ (9)
Provision for marketable
securities (1) (2) (21) (8)
Gain on sale of investments - 1 8 1
Other - (2) - (5)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ (21) $ (6) $ (89) $ (21)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contacts:
Teck Resources Limited
Greg Waller
VP Investor Relations & Strategic Analysis
604.699.4014
Teck Resources Limited
Marcia Smith
SVP Sustainability and External Affairs
604.699.4616
www.teck.com
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