Our opinion on the current state of HARMONY(HAR)Harmony (HAR) was historically South Africa's most marginal gold miner, but its acquisition of the Mponeng gold mine has significantly strengthened its position. Mponeng is the deepest mine in the world, bringing with it the challenges of ultra-deep-level mining. The development of this mine and its associated processing plant is projected to cost around US$2.8 billion, with Harmony needing to secure approximately R20 billion to cover its share of this expense. In 2021, the company purchased Mponeng for R4.2 billion. Additionally, Harmony is advancing its sustainability initiatives by constructing a 30MW solar park in the Free State, with plans for an additional 80MW of green power capacity.
On 6th October 2022, Harmony agreed to acquire the Eva copper project in Australia for R4.1 billion. This acquisition is a strategic move to diversify beyond precious metals. Eva is expected to commence production in about three years, contributing an estimated 260,000 ounces of gold and 1.7 billion pounds of copper to Harmony's reserves, which could potentially transform the company.
On 3rd April 2024, Harmony signed a five-year wage agreement with all of its unions, providing stability in its labor relations.
In its results for the year ending 30th June 2024, Harmony reported improvements in its underground grade to 6.11 grams per ton, a 6% increase in gold production, and an 11% rise in the US dollar gold price received. This resulted in headline earnings per share (HEPS) of 1852c, up from 800c in the previous year. The company highlighted its focus on investing in higher-grade mines, expanding its surface retreatment operations, and growing its international gold and copper portfolio to de-risk and strengthen its business.
In the operational update for the quarter ending 30th September 2024, Harmony reported a slight 1% decline in overall gold production, though Mponeng's output increased by 28%. The recovered grade improved to 6.32 grams per ton, while costs rose by 14%. The average gold price received was up 21% to $2,356 per ounce. The company maintained a robust balance sheet with a net cash position of R6.3 billion (US$362 million) and liquidity of R15.7 billion (US$909 million) in cash and undrawn facilities.
Technically, Harmony's share is volatile but currently in a strong upward trend. It is largely influenced by fluctuations in the gold price and the rand/US dollar exchange rate.