Our opinion on the current state of THUNGELA(TGA)Thungela (TGA) represents Anglo American's former coal assets, which were unbundled and separately listed on the JSE and LSE to align with Anglo's policy of divesting from carbon-based fossil fuels. Anglo sold its final 8% stake in Thungela on 25th March 2022 for R1.67 billion. Thungela is a significant exporter of thermal coal in South Africa, employing over 7,500 people and exporting coal to Asia, India, Southeast Asia, and East and North African countries.
The company owns 50% of Phola, which operates a coal processing plant, and holds a 23.22% interest in the Richards Bay Coal Terminal (RBCT). It has the capacity to produce over 90 million tons of coal annually and operates seven mines in South Africa, consisting of four open-cast and three underground operations.
In its results for the six months to 30th June 2024, Thungela reported revenue up 17%, though headline earnings per share (HEPS) declined by 58%. The company noted, "Group capital expenditure of R1.5 billion, reflecting the disciplined execution of the life extension projects in South Africa - Profit of R1.2 billion, including R419 million from Australia, demonstrating the benefits from the Group's geographic diversification."
In a pre-close statement for the year ending 31st December 2024, the financial director expressed confidence in exceeding the full-year export saleable production guidance in South Africa and Australia. The company stated, "The various Transnet Freight Rail (TFR) initiatives, supported by the coal industry, have allowed for the annualised run rate to 30 November 2024 to increase to approximately 52Mt, or 56Mt."
Thungela's share began trading on the JSE on 7th June 2021, dropping from an initial price of 2600 cents to 2190 cents. Initially estimated to be worth a minimum of 4400 cents, the share climbed to a high of 37,752 cents on 16th September 2022. Since then, it has moved sideways and downward, influenced by lower coal prices and challenges with Transnet. As a single-commodity share, it is inherently volatile and heavily reliant on Transnet's ability to transport coal to ports.
The company has committed to paying out at least 30% of its "adjusted operating free cash flow" in dividends. However, its performance is likely to remain subdued, drifting sideways unless coal prices experience a meaningful increase.
On 21st January 2025, Thungela announced that its CEO, July Ndlovu, will retire in July 2025 and will be succeeded by Moses Madondo, who will assume the role on 1st August 2025. This leadership transition adds an element of uncertainty to the company's strategic direction as it continues to navigate the challenges of its operating environment.