SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

 

FORM 6-K

 

REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER

 

PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16

UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the month of December, 2024

 

Commission File Number: 001-13382

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

(Translation of registrant's name into English)

 

17th Floor, 25 York Street

Toronto, Ontario M5J 2V5

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F:

 

Form 20-F ¨ Form 40-F x

 

 

 

 

 

 

EXPLANATORY NOTE

 

This Current Report on Form 6-K, dated February 12, 2025, is being furnished for the sole purpose of providing a copy of the Consolidated Financial Statements and Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024.

 

This current report is specifically incorporated by reference into Kinross Gold Corporation’s Registration Statements on Form S-8 (Registration Nos. 333-180822, 333-180823, 333-180824 filed on April 19, 2012, Registration No. 333-217099 filed on April 3, 2017 and Registration No. 333-262966 filed on February 24, 2022).

 

 

 

 

EXHIBITS

 

 Exhibit No.    Description
99.1   Kinross Gold Corporation Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024
99.2   Audited Consolidated Financial Statements of Kinross Gold Corporation as at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 and for the years then ended, together with the reports of the independent registered public accounting firm of Kinross Gold Corporation
99.3   Consent of KPMG LLP

 

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

  KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION
   
  By: /s/ Julie Robertson
  Name: Julie Robertson
  Title: Senior Vice-President, Finance
     
    Date: February 12, 2025

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.1

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

This management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A"), prepared as of February 12, 2025, relates to the financial condition and results of operations of Kinross Gold Corporation together with its wholly owned subsidiaries, as at December 31, 2024 and for the year then ended, and is intended to supplement and complement Kinross Gold Corporation’s audited annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024 and the notes thereto (the “financial statements”). Readers are cautioned that the MD&A contains forward-looking statements about expected future events and financial and operating performance of the Company, and that actual events may vary from management's expectations. Readers are encouraged to read the Cautionary Statement on Forward Looking Information included with this MD&A and to consult Kinross Gold Corporation's financial statements and corresponding notes to the financial statements which are available on the Company's web site at www.kinross.com and on www.sedarplus.ca. The financial statements and MD&A are presented in U.S. dollars. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). This discussion addresses matters we consider important for an understanding of our financial condition and results of operations as at and for the year ended December 31, 2024, as well as our outlook.

 

This MD&A contains forward-looking statements and should be read in conjunction with the risk factors described in "Risk Analysis" on pages 32 – 44 and in the “Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information” on pages 53 – 54 of this MD&A. For additional discussion of risk factors, please refer to the Company's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is available on the Company's website www.kinross.com and on www.sedarplus.ca. In certain instances, references are made to relevant notes in the financial statements for additional information.

 

This MD&A references adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders, adjusted net earnings per share, attributable adjusted operating cash flow, attributable free cash flow, attributable all-in sustaining cost per equivalent ounce sold and per ounce sold on a by-product basis, attributable all-in cost per equivalent ounce sold and per ounce sold on a by-product basis, attributable average realized gold price per ounce, and attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold, all of which are non-GAAP financial measures or ratios. The definitions and reconciliations of these non-GAAP financial measures and ratios are included in Section 11 of this MD&A.

 

Where we say "we", "us", "our", the "Company" or "Kinross", we mean Kinross Gold Corporation or Kinross Gold Corporation and/or one or more or all of its subsidiaries, as it may apply. Where we refer to the "industry", we mean the gold mining industry.

 

1

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

1.DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS

 

Kinross is engaged in gold mining and related activities, including exploration and acquisition of gold-bearing properties, the extraction and processing of gold-containing ore, and reclamation of gold mining properties. Kinross’ gold production and exploration activities are carried out principally in Canada, the United States, Brazil, Chile, Mauritania and Finland. Gold is produced in the form of doré, which is shipped to refineries for final processing. Kinross also produces and sells a quantity of silver.

 

The profitability and operating cash flow of Kinross are affected by various factors, including the amount of gold and silver produced, the market prices of gold and silver, operating costs, interest rates, regulatory and environmental compliance, the level of exploration activity and capital expenditures, general and administrative costs, and other discretionary costs and activities. Kinross is also exposed to fluctuations in currency exchange rates, political risks, and varying levels of taxation that can impact profitability and cash flow. Kinross seeks to manage the risks associated with its business operations; however, many of the factors affecting these risks are beyond the Company’s control.

 

Commodity prices continue to be volatile as economies around the world continue to experience economic challenges along with political changes and uncertainties. Volatility in the price of gold and silver impacts the Company's revenue, while volatility in the price of input costs, such as oil, and foreign exchange rates, particularly the Brazilian real, Chilean peso, Mauritanian ouguiya and Canadian dollar, may have an impact on the Company's operating costs and capital expenditures.

 

Segment Profile

 

Each of the Company's significant operating mines is generally considered to be a separate segment. The reportable segments are those operations whose operating results are reviewed by the chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance.

 

           Ownership percentage at December 31, 
Operating Segments  Operator   Location   2024   2023 
Tasiast   Kinross    Mauritania    100%    100% 
Paracatu   Kinross    Brazil    100%    100% 
La Coipa   Kinross    Chile    100%    100% 
Fort Knox(a)   Kinross    USA    100%/70%    100%/70% 
Round Mountain   Kinross    USA    100%    100% 
Bald Mountain   Kinross    USA    100%    100% 

 

(a)The Fort Knox segment includes the 100%-owned Fort Knox mine and 70%-owned Manh Choh mine.

 

2

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Consolidated Financial and Operating Highlights

 

   Years ended December 31,   2024 vs. 2023   2023 vs. 2022 
(in millions, except ounces, per share amounts and per ounce amounts)  2024   2023   2022(g)   Change   % Change(h)   Change   % Change(h) 
Operating Highlights(a)                                   
Total gold equivalent ounces(b)                                   
Produced   2,170,791    2,153,020    1,957,237    17,771    1%   195,783    10%
Sold   2,153,212    2,179,936    1,927,818    (26,724)   (1)%   252,118    13%
                                    
Attributable gold equivalent ounces(b)                                   
Produced   2,128,052    2,153,020    1,957,237    (24,968)   (1)%   195,783    10%
Sold   2,111,688    2,179,936    1,927,818    (68,248)   (3)%   252,118    13%
                                    
Earnings(a)                                   
Metal sales  $5,148.8   $4,239.7   $3,455.1   $909.1    21%  $784.6    23%
Production cost of sales  $2,197.1   $2,054.4   $1,805.7   $142.7    7%  $248.7    14%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization  $1,147.5   $986.8   $784.0   $160.7    16%  $202.8    26%
Impairment (reversal) charge  $(74.1)  $38.9   $350.0   $(113.0)   nm   $(311.1)   (89)%
Operating earnings  $1,540.3   $801.4   $117.7   $738.9    92%  $683.7    nm 
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders  $948.8   $416.3   $31.9   $532.5    128%  $384.4    nm 
Basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders  $0.77   $0.34   $0.02   $0.43    126%  $0.32    nm 
Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders(c)  $838.3   $539.8   $283.1   $298.5    55%  $256.7    91%
Adjusted net earnings per share(c)  $0.68   $0.44   $0.22   $0.24    55%  $0.22    100%
                                    
Cash Flow(a)                                   
Net cash flow provided from operating activities  $2,446.4   $1,605.3   $1,002.5   $841.1    52%  $602.8    60%
Attributable adjusted operating cash flow(c)  $2,143.1   $1,676.7   $1,257.7   $466.4    28%  $419.0    33%
Capital expenditures(d)   $1,075.5   $1,098.3   $764.2   $(22.8)   (2)%  $334.1    44%
Attributable capital expenditures(c)  $1,050.9   $1,055.0   $755.0   $(4.1)   (0)%  $300.0    40%
Attributable free cash flow(c)  $1,340.2   $559.7   $247.3   $780.5    139%  $312.4    126%
                                    
Per Ounce Metrics(a)                                   
Average realized gold price per ounce(e)  $2,393   $1,945   $1,793   $448    23%  $152    8%
Attributable average realized gold price per ounce(c)  $2,391   $1,945   $1,793   $446    23%  $152    8%
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce(b) sold(f)  $1,020   $942   $937   $78    8%  $5    1%
Attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce(b) sold(c)  $1,021   $942   $937   $79    8%  $5    1%
Attributable production cost of sales per ounce sold on a by-product basis(c)  $988   $892   $912   $96    11%  $(20)   (2)%
Attributable all-in sustaining cost per equivalent ounce(b) sold(c)  $1,388   $1,316   $1,271   $72    5%  $45    4%
Attributable all-in sustaining cost per ounce sold on a by-product basis(c)  $1,365   $1,284   $1,255   $81    6%  $29    2%
Attributable all-in cost per equivalent ounce(b) sold(c)  $1,739   $1,634   $1,545   $105    6%  $89    6%
Attributable all-in cost per ounce sold on a by-product basis(c)  $1,725   $1,619   $1,538   $106    7%  $81    5%

 

(a)All measures and ratios include 100% of the results from Manh Choh, except measures and ratios denoted as “attributable.” “Attributable” measures and ratios include Kinross’ 70% share of Manh Choh production, sales, cash flow, capital expenditures and costs, as applicable.
(b)Gold equivalent ouncesinclude silver ounces produced and sold converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average spot market prices for the commodities for each period. The ratio for 2024 was 84.43:1 (2023 – 83.13:1 and 2022 – 82.90:1).
(c)The definition and reconciliation of these non-GAAP financial measures and ratios is included in Section 11. Non-GAAP financial measures and ratios have no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.
(d)“Capital expenditures” is as reported as “Additions to property, plant and equipment” on the consolidated statements of cash flows.
(e)“Average realized gold price per ounce” is defined as gold revenue divided by total gold ounces sold.
(f)“Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.
(g)Results for the year ended December 31, 2022 are from continuing operations and exclude results from the Company’s Chirano and Russian operations due to the classification of these operations as discontinued and their sale in 2022.
(h)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

3

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Consolidated Financial Performance

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Kinross’ 2024 production of 2,170,791 gold equivalent ounces was comparable to 2023. Higher production from Fort Knox, with the commencement of higher-grade, higher-recovery ore feed from Manh Choh, and higher production from Bald Mountain due to higher grade ore, was offset by lower production from Paracatu due to lower grade ore, in accordance with planned mine sequencing, fewer ounces recovered from the heap leach pads at Round Mountain, as well as lower silver grades and throughput at La Coipa.

 

Metal sales in 2024 increased by 21% to $5,148.8 million compared to 2023, due to a 23% increase in the average realized gold price to $2,393 per ounce in 2024, from $1,945 per ounce in the prior year. Total gold equivalent ounces sold in 2024 were comparable to 2023.

 

Production cost of sales and production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold in 2024 were $2,197.1 million and $1,020, respectively, an increase of 7% and 8%, respectively, compared to 2023, mainly due to the production and sales mix, including higher production at Fort Knox as well as lower production from Paracatu and Round Mountain. Also contributing to the increase were higher royalties as a result of higher realized metal prices, a lower proportion of mining activities related to capital development and higher mill maintenance costs at La Coipa, and higher input costs at Paracatu. These increases were partially offset by favourable foreign exchange rates in Brazil and Chile.

 

Attributable all-in sustaining cost per equivalent ounce sold and per ounce sold on a by-product basis increased by 5% and 6%, respectively, and attributable all-in cost per equivalent ounce sold and per ounce sold on a by-product basis increased by 6% and 7%, respectively, compared to 2023. The increases were primarily as a result of the increase in production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold.

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization increased by 16% compared to 2023, primarily due to a higher depreciable asset base at Tasiast and Bald Mountain, the increase in gold equivalent ounces sold at Fort Knox, and a decrease in mineral reserves for Round Mountain Phase W at the end of 2023. These increases were partially offset by a decrease at La Coipa.

 

In the third quarter of 2024, the Company recorded an after-tax impairment reversal of $73.4 million, related to property, plant and equipment at Round Mountain. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company recorded an after-tax impairment charge of $35.8 million related to inventory at Fort Knox. The impairment reversal in 2024 was net of an income tax expense of $0.7 million while the impairment charge in 2023 was net of an income tax recovery of $3.1 million.

 

The Company recorded income tax expense of $487.4 million in 2024, an increase of $194.2 million compared to 2023 primarily due to differences in the level of income in the Company’s operating jurisdictions. Kinross' combined federal and provincial statutory tax rate for both 2024 and 2023 was 26.5%.

 

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders in 2024 were $948.8 million, or $0.77 per share, compared to $416.3 million, or $0.34 per share, in the prior year. The increase in net earnings was primarily a result of an increase in margins as metal sales increased by 21% while production cost of sales increased by only 7%. The impairment reversal at Round Mountain also contributed to the increase, partially offset by the increases in depreciation, depletion and amortization and income tax expense, as noted above.

 

Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders in 2024 were $838.3 million, or $0.68 per share, compared to $539.8 million, or $0.44 per share, in 2023. The increase was primarily due to the increase in net earnings attributable to common shareholders, net of the after-tax changes in impairment.

 

Net cash flow provided from operating activities increased to $2,446.4 million in 2024 from $1,605.3 million in 2023, primarily due to the increase in margins and favourable working capital movements.

 

Attributable adjusted operating cash flow increased to $2,143.1 million in 2024 from $1,676.7 million in 2023, primarily due to the increase in margins, partially offset by an increase in current income tax expense.

 

Capital expenditures and attributable capital expenditures in 2024 were $1,075.5 million and $1,050.9 million, respectively, consistent with the prior year. Capital expenditures in 2024 included the start of Phase S capital development at Round Mountain, continued spending at Great Bear and increased capital development at Tasiast for West Branch 5. These were offset by reduced spending on the construction of Manh Choh, which was completed in 2024, and the completion of heap leach pad expansions at Bald Mountain at the end of 2023.

4

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Attributable free cash flow increased by 139%, to $1,340.2 million in 2024 from $559.7 million in 2023, primarily due to the increase in net cash flow provided from operating activities, as the Company managed operating and capital costs as metal sales increased in the year.

 

2023 vs. 2022

 

Kinross’ 2023 production increased by 10% compared to 2022, primarily due to higher production at La Coipa due to the restart and ramp up of operations in the second half of 2022 and higher mill grades, recoveries, and throughput at Tasiast. These increases were partially offset by lower production at Bald Mountain due to lower grades and the timing of ounces recovered from the heap leach pads, consistent with the mine plan.

 

Metal sales increased by 23% compared to 2022, due to increases in gold equivalent ounces sold and average metal prices realized. Gold equivalent ounces sold increased to 2,179,936 ounces in 2023 compared to 1,927,818 ounces in 2022. The average realized gold price was $1,945 per ounce in 2023 compared to $1,793 per ounce in 2022.

 

Production cost of sales increased by 14% in 2023 compared to 2022, largely as a result of the restart and ramp up of operations at La Coipa and an increase in gold equivalent ounces sold at Round Mountain, Paracatu and Tasiast. Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold was comparable to 2022.

 

Attributable all-in sustaining cost per equivalent ounce sold and per ounce sold on a by-product basis increased by 4% and 2%, respectively, compared to 2022. Attributable all-in cost per equivalent ounce sold and per ounce sold on a by-product basis increased by 6% and 5%, respectively, compared to 2022. These increases were primarily due to the increases in production cost of sales, as described above, and an increase in capital expenditures, partially offset by the increase in ounces sold.

 

In 2023, depreciation, depletion and amortization increased by 26% compared to 2022, primarily due to the increase in gold equivalent ounces sold and changes to the life-of-mine plan at Round Mountain in the fourth quarter of 2022, partially offset by lower gold equivalent ounces sold at Bald Mountain.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded an after-tax impairment charge of $35.8 million related to inventory at Fort Knox. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company recorded after-tax impairment charges related to metal inventory and property, plant and equipment at Round Mountain of $87.9 million and $201.4 million, respectively. The impairment charges in 2023 and 2022 were net of income tax recoveries of $3.1 million and $60.7 million, respectively.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded an income tax expense of $293.2 million, an increase of $217.1 million compared to 2022 primarily due to differences in the level of income in the Company’s operating jurisdictions. Kinross’ combined federal and provincial statutory tax rate for both 2023 and 2022 was 26.5%.

 

Net earnings attributable to common shareholders in 2023 were $416.3 million, or $0.34 per share, compared to $31.9 million, or $0.02 per share, in 2022. The change was primarily a result of an increase in margins (metal sales less production cost of sales) and lower impairment charges in 2023, partially offset by the increase in income tax expense and depreciation, depletion and amortization in 2023.

 

Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders in 2023 were $539.8 million, or $0.44 per share, compared to $283.1 million, or $0.22 per share, in 2022. The increase was primarily due to the increase in net earnings attributable to common shareholders, as described above, net of the decrease in after-tax impairment.

 

Net cash flow provided from operating activities increased to $1,605.3 million in 2023 from $1,002.5 million 2022, primarily due to the increase in margins and a favourable change in working capital compared to the prior year.

 

Attributable adjusted operating cash flow increased to $1,676.7 million compared to $1,257.7 million in 2022, primarily due to the increase in margins.

 

In 2023, capital expenditures and attributable capital expenditures increased to $1,098.3 million and $1,055.0 million, respectively, primarily due to an increase in capital development at Tasiast and Fort Knox and increased development activities at Manh Choh.

 

Attributable free cash flow increased to $559.7 million from $247.3 million in 2022, due to the increase in net cash flow provided from operating activities, partially offset by higher capital expenditures, as described above.

 

5

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Mineral Reserves1

 

Kinross’ total estimated proven and probable gold reserves at December 31, 2024 were approximately 21.9 million ounces, a decrease of 0.9 million ounces from 22.8 million ounces at December 31, 2023. The decrease in estimated gold reserves was mainly a result of production depletion. Amongst the operating sites, 1.5 million ounces were also added to proven and probable reserves, mainly at Bald Mountain, Tasiast and Paracatu.

 

Proven and probable silver reserves at December 31, 2024 were approximately 16.9 million ounces, a decrease of 6.8 million ounces from 23.7 million ounces at December 31, 2023, primarily due to production depletion at La Coipa.

 

2.IMPACT OF KEY ECONOMIC TRENDS

 

Price of Gold

 

 

Source: Bloomberg – based on daily closing prices

 

The price of gold is the single largest factor in determining profitability and cash flow from operations. Therefore, the financial performance of the Company has been, and is expected to continue to be, closely linked to the price of gold. Historically, the price of gold has been subject to volatile price movements over short periods of time and is affected by numerous macroeconomic and industry factors that are beyond the Company’s control. Major influences on the gold price include currency exchange rate fluctuations and the relative strength of the U.S. dollar, the supply of and demand for gold and macroeconomic factors such as the level of interest rates and inflation expectations. During 2024, the price of gold fluctuated between a low of $1,985 per ounce in February and a high of $2,778 per ounce in October, with an average price for the year based on the LBMA Gold Price PM benchmark of $2,386 per ounce, compared to the 2023 average price of $1,941 per ounce. Major influences on the gold price during 2024 included market expectations of interest rate cuts, a stronger USD, ongoing geopolitical tensions, trade risks and otherwise general market volatility around the United States presidential election.

 

 

1 For details concerning mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates, refer to the Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources tables and notes in the Company's news release filed with Canadian and U.S. regulators on February 12, 2025.

 

6

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

In 2024, Kinross’ attributable average realized gold price2 of $2,391 per ounce compared to the average LBMA Gold Price PM benchmark of $2,386 per ounce.

 

Source: London Bullion Marketing Association London PM Benchmark

 

 

2 These figures are non-GAAP financial measures and ratios, as applicable, and are defined, and actual results for the year ended December 31, 2024 are reconciled, in Section 11 of this MD&A. Non-GAAP financial measures and ratios have no standardized meaning under IFRS and therefore, may not be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers.

 

7

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Gold Supply and Demand Fundamentals

 

 

Source: World Gold Council Gold Demand Trends: Full Year 2024 report

 

According to the World Gold Council, total gold supply in 2024 increased by approximately 1% compared to 2023, driven by mine production and recycling.

8

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

 

Source: World Gold Council Gold Demand Trends: Full Year 2024 report

 

According to the World Gold Council, annual gold demand increased in 2024 by approximately 1% compared to 2023, as central bank demand continued to be strong and ETF holdings increased in the second half of 2024.

 

9

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Cost Sensitivity

 

The Company’s profitability is subject to industry-wide cost pressures on development and operating costs with respect to labour, energy, capital expenditures and consumables in general. Since mining is generally an energy intensive activity, especially in open pit mining, energy prices have a significant impact on operations.

 

The cost of fuel as a percentage of operating costs varies amongst the Company’s mines, and overall, fuel prices in 2024 were weaker compared to 2023. Fluctuations in fuel prices are primarily due to geopolitical risk and demand and supply dynamics. Kinross manages its exposure to fuel costs by entering into various hedge positions from time to time – refer to Section 6 – Liquidity and Capital Resources for details.

 

Source: Bloomberg

 

In order to mitigate the impact of higher consumable prices, the Company continues to focus on continuous improvement, both by promoting more efficient use of materials and supplies, and by pursuing more advantageous pricing, whilst increasing performance and without compromising operational integrity.

 

10

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Currency Fluctuations

 

Source: Bloomberg

 

At the Company’s non-U.S. mining operations and exploration activities, which are primarily located in Brazil, Chile, Mauritania, and Canada, a portion of operating costs and capital expenditures are denominated in their respective local currencies. Generally, as the U.S. dollar strengthens, these currencies weaken, and as the U.S. dollar weakens, these foreign currencies strengthen. These currencies were subject to market volatility over the course of the year. Approximately 65% of the Company’s expected production in 2025 is forecast to come from operations outside the U.S. and costs will continue to be exposed to foreign exchange movements. In order to manage this risk, the Company uses currency hedges for certain foreign currency exposures – refer to Section 6 – Liquidity and Capital Resources for details.

 

3.OUTLOOK

 

The following section of this MD&A represents forward-looking information and users are cautioned that actual results may vary. We refer to the risks and assumptions contained in the Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information on pages 53 – 54 of this MD&A.

 

Attributable3 Production Guidance

 

In 2025, Kinross expects to produce 2.0 million attributable gold equivalent ounces4 (+/- 5%) from its operations. Production is expected to remain stable at 2.0 million attributable gold equivalent ounces (+/- 5%) for each of 2026 and 2027.

 

 

3 Attributable guidance and results include Kinross’ 70% share of Manh Choh production, costs and capital expenditures. Attributable figures are non-GAAP financial measures and ratios. Refer to footnote 2.

4 Attributable gold equivalent ounce production guidance for 2025 includes approximately 4.3 million ounces of silver. 

 

11

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Attributable3 Cost Guidance

 

   2025   2024 
   Guidance   Full-Year 
   (+/-5%)   Results 
Attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2  $1,120   $1,021 
Attributable all-in sustaining cost per equivalent ounce sold2  $1,500   $1,388 
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold5       $1,020 

 

Attributable production cost of sales2 is expected to be $1,120 per equivalent ounce sold (+/- 5%) for 2025. In 2024, production cost of sales5 and attributable production cost of sales2 were $1,020 per equivalent ounce sold and $1,021 per equivalent ounce sold, respectively. The moderate year-over-year increase in 2025 is mainly due to lower overall production with a change in sales mix, including lower production at Tasiast, and inflationary impacts.

 

The Company expects its attributable all-in sustaining cost2 to be $1,500 per equivalent ounce sold (+/- 5%) for 2025. In 2024, attributable all-in sustaining cost2 was $1,388 per equivalent ounce sold. The expected increase in 2025 is largely a result of the increase in attributable production cost of sales, as noted above.

 

Material assumptions used to forecast 2025 attributable production cost of sales2 are: a gold price of $2,500 per ounce, a silver price of $30 per ounce, an oil price of $80 per barrel, and foreign exchange rates of 5.25 Brazilian reais to the U.S. dollar, 900 Chilean pesos to the U.S. dollar, 37.50 Mauritanian ouguiyas to the U.S. dollar and 1.35 Canadian dollars to the U.S. dollar.

 

Taking into account existing currency and oil hedges, a 10% change in all foreign currency exchange rates would be expected to result in an approximate $25 impact on attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2; and specific to the Brazilian real and Chilean peso, a 10% change in these exchange rates would be expected to result in impacts of approximately $45 and $50 on Brazilian and Chilean attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2, respectively. A $10 per barrel change in the price of oil would be expected to result in an approximate $3 impact on fuel consumption costs on attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2, and a $100 change in the price of gold would be expected to result in an approximate $5 impact on attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2 as a result of a change in royalties.

 

Attributable3 Capital Expenditures2 Guidance

 

   2025   2024 
   Guidance   Full-Year 
   (+/-5%)   Results 
Attributable sustaining capital expenditures  $535.0   $523.5 
Attributable non-sustaining capital expenditures  $615.0   $527.4 
Total attributable capital expenditures2  $1,150.0   $1,050.9 
Total capital expenditures6       $1,075.5 

 

Attributable capital expenditures for 2025 are forecasted to be approximately $1,150 million (+/- 5%). Of this amount, sustaining capital expenditures are expected to be approximately $535 million, with non-sustaining capital expenditures of approximately $615 million. Non-sustaining capital expenditures include stripping at Tasiast West Branch 5, Round Mountain Phase S, and Bald Mountain Redbird, project studies and Advanced Exploration (“AEX”) construction at Great Bear, as well as other growth projects and studies.

 

Kinross’ attributable capital expenditures outlook for 2026 and 2027 is expected to be in-line with 2025, subject to ongoing inflationary impacts.

 

 

5 “Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

6 “Capital expenditures” is as reported as “Additions to property, plant and equipment” on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

 

12

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Other 2025 Guidance

 

The 2025 forecast for exploration and business development is $200 million (+/-5%), which includes approximately $175 million (+/-5%) of exploration expenditures, mainly at Round Mountain, Curlew, Tasiast, La Coipa and Fort Knox.

 

The 2025 forecast for general and administrative expense is $125 million (+/-5%).

 

Other operating costs for 2025 are expected to be between $125 and $150 million, which primarily relates to studies and permitting activities that do not meet the criteria for capitalization, as well as care and maintenance and reclamation activities at non-operating sites.

 

Taxes paid are expected to be $330 million in 2025, based on a gold price of $2,500 per ounce, and are expected to increase by approximately $4 million for every $100 per ounce movement in the realized gold prices. The forecast effective tax rate (“ETR”)7 for 2025 is expected to be in the range of 32% - 37%.

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization is forecast to be approximately $540 (+/-5%) per equivalent ounce sold8, compared to $533 per equivalent ounce sold8 in 2024.

 

The 2025 forecast for interest paid is $75 million, $55 million of which is expected to be expensed and $20 million capitalized. In 2024, $128.2 million of interest was paid with $92.6 million capitalized and $35.6 million expensed. The 2025 forecast for interest expense excludes accretion of the Company’s reclamation and remediation obligations, as well as lease liabilities, which for 2024 totaled $42.3 million.

 

4.PROJECT UPDATES AND NEW DEVELOPMENTS

 

Great Bear

 

At Great Bear, Kinross continues to progress its AEX program and Main Project permitting.

 

For the AEX program, early works, including tree clearing and earthworks, has commenced with the necessary permits received for all current activities. The two remaining permits required for full AEX completion and operation are under review by the regulatory authorities and are expected to be received later in the year, when they are required. Detailed engineering and procurement continue to advance.

 

The Company is focused on progressing AEX activities including construction of the exploration decline planned to commence in late 2025.

 

For the Main Project, Kinross is advancing detailed engineering and execution planning. The selection of design partners is well underway and work is planned to commence in the first quarter of 2025. This work will provide key engineering information for permitting and construction.

 

The Company continues to work with the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada on advancing its Impact Statement, which is planned to be submitted later in 2025. Consultation continues with designated Indigenous communities, including discussions to finalize related agreements.

 

In 2025, Kinross has shifted from deep underground resource drilling to regional exploration work with the goal of identifying new open pit and underground deposits.

 

Kinross released its Preliminary Economic Assessment for Great Bear on September 10, 2024. The Project is expected to produce over 500,000 ounces per year at an all-in sustaining cost of approximately $800 per ounce during the first 8 years through a conventional, modest capital 10,000 tonne per day mill. In parallel, Kinross also released an updated mineral resource estimate increasing the

 

 

 

7 The forecast ETR range for 2025 assumes gold price, foreign exchange and tax rates in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates remain stable and within 2025 guidance assumptions. The ETR does not include the impact of items which the Company believes are not reflective of the Company’s underlying performance, such as the impact of net foreign currency translations on tax deductions and taxes related to prior periods. Management believes that the ETR range provides investors with the ability to better evaluate the Company’s underlying performance. However, the ETR range is not necessarily an indicator of tax expense recognized under IFRS. The rate is sensitive to the relative proportion of sales between the Company’s various tax jurisdictions and realized gold prices.

8 Depreciation, depletion and amortization per equivalent ounce sold is defined as depreciation, depletion and amortization, as reported on the consolidated statements of operations, divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

13

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

inferred resource estimate by 568 thousand ounces to 3.9 million ounces which was in addition to the measured and indicated resource estimate of 2.7 million ounces.

 

Bald Mountain Redbird

 

Kinross is pleased to announce plans to proceed with mining at the Redbird pit at Bald Mountain, which contains approximately 1 million ounces of gold reserve, following the receipt of the Juniper permit in the second half of 2024.

 

Kinross has approved mining of Phase 1 at Redbird, which contains 270 thousand ounces and is expected to produce approximately 175 thousand ounces, extending production into 2028. Phase 2, unlocking another 680 thousand ounces contained, could begin in 2026 and extend production from Bald Mountain through 2031.

 

Phase 1 lowers the initial capital risk by leveraging existing heap leach infrastructure, pulls forward production into 2027, and can progress in 2025 while work continues on optimizing the design and execution plan for Phase 2.

 

Phase 1 initial capex of $120 million is primarily pre-strip mining cost, and the project has an all-in sustaining cost of approximately $1,500/oz.

 

Lobo-Marte

 

Kinross is progressing baseline studies to support the Environmental Impact Assessment for the Lobo-Marte project. Lobo-Marte continues to be a potential large, low-cost mine and Kinross is committed to progressing next steps to advance the project.

 

14

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

5.CONSOLIDATED RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

Operating Highlights

 

   Years ended December 31,   2024 vs. 2023   2023 vs. 2022 
(in millions, except ounces and per ounce amounts)  2024   2023   2022(d)   Change   % Change(e)   Change   % Change(e) 
Operating Statistics(a)                            
Total gold equivalent ounces(b)                            
Produced   2,170,791    2,153,020    1,957,237    17,771    1%   195,783    10%
Sold   2,153,212    2,179,936    1,927,818    (26,724)   (1)%   252,118    13%
                                    
Attributable gold equivalent ounces(b)                                   
Produced   2,128,052    2,153,020    1,957,237    (24,968)   (1)%   195,783    10%
Sold   2,111,688    2,179,936    1,927,818    (68,248)   (3)%   252,118    13%
                                    
Gold ounces - sold   2,100,621    2,074,989    1,872,342    25,632    1%   202,647    11%
Silver ounces - sold (000's)   4,467    8,718    4,647    (4,251)   (49)%   4,071    88%
Average realized gold price per ounce(c)  $2,393   $1,945   $1,793   $448    23%  $152    8%
                                    
Earnings(a)                                   
Metal sales  $5,148.8   $4,239.7   $3,455.1   $909.1    21%  $784.6    23%
Production cost of sales  $2,197.1   $2,054.4   $1,805.7   $142.7    7%  $248.7    14%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization  $1,147.5   $986.8   $784.0   $160.7    16%  $202.8    26%
Impairment (reversal) charge  $(74.1)  $38.9   $350.0   $(113.0)   nm   $(311.1)   (89)%
Operating earnings  $1,540.3   $801.4   $117.7   $738.9    92%  $683.7    nm 
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders  $948.8   $416.3   $31.9   $532.5    128%  $384.4    nm 

 

(a)All measures and ratios include 100% of the results from Manh Choh, except measures denoted as “attributable.” “Attributable” measures include Kinross’ 70% share of Manh Choh production and sales, as appropriate.

(b)Gold equivalent ouncesinclude silver ounces produced and sold converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average spot market prices for the commodities for each period. The ratio for 2024 was 84.43:1 (2023 – 83.13:1, 2022 – 82.90:1).

(c)“Average realized gold price per ounce” is defined as gold revenue divided by total gold ounces sold.

(d)Results for the year ended December 31, 2022 are from continuing operations and exclude results from the Company’s Chirano and Russian operations due to the classification of these operations as discontinued and their sale in 2022.

(e)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

Operating Earnings (Loss) by Segment

 

   Years ended December 31,   2024 vs. 2023   2023 vs. 2022 
(in millions)  2024   2023   2022(c)   Change   % Change(d)   Change   % Change(d) 
Operating segments                                   
Tasiast  $696.0   $549.6   $299.5   $146.4    27%  $250.1    84%
Paracatu   505.6    407.5    330.9    98.1    24%   76.6    23%
La Coipa   210.8    147.2    81.8    63.6    43%   65.4    80%
Fort Knox(a)   307.0    65.1    55.0    241.9    nm    10.1    18%
Round Mountain   15.0    (100.3)   (327.6)   115.3    nm    227.3    nm 
Bald Mountain   68.0    13.9    (5.6)   54.1    nm    19.5    nm 
Non-operating segments                                   
Great Bear   (43.8)   (49.9)   (61.7)   6.1    nm    11.8    nm 
Corporate and other(b)   (218.3)   (231.7)   (254.6)   13.4    nm    22.9    nm 
Total  $1,540.3   $801.4   $117.7   $738.9    92%  $683.7    nm 

 

(a)The Fort Knox segment includes Manh Choh, which was aggregated with Fort Knox during 2024. Results for all periods include 100% for Manh Choh. Comparative results are presented in accordance with the current year’s presentation.

(b)“Corporate and other” includes operating costs which are not directly related to individual mining properties such as overhead expenses, insurance recoveries, gains and losses on disposal of assets and investments, and other costs relating to corporate, shutdown and other non-operating assets (including Kettle River-Buckhorn, Lobo-Marte, and Maricunga).

(c)Results for the year ended December 31, 2022 are from continuing operations and exclude results from the Company’s Chirano and Russian operations due to the classification of these operations as discontinued and their sale in 2022.

(d)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

15

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Mining Operations

 

Tasiast – Mauritania

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023   Change   % Change(c) 
Operating Statistics                    
Tonnes ore mined (000's)   7,601    9,801    (2,200)   (22)%
Tonnes processed (000's)   8,642    6,723    1,919    29%
Grade (grams/tonne)   2.44    3.19    (0.75)   (24)%
Recovery   92.1%   92.3%   (0.2)%   (0)%
Gold equivalent ounces(a):                    
Produced   622,394    620,793    1,601    0%
Sold   609,614    615,065    (5,451)   (1)%
                     
Earnings (in millions)                    
Metal sales  $1,456.5   $1,200.8   $255.7    21%
Production cost of sales   415.4    406.8    8.6    2%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   357.1    244.4    112.7    46%
    684.0    549.6    134.4    24%
Other operating income   (21.6)   (3.9)   (17.7)   nm 
Exploration and business development   9.6    3.9    5.7    146%
Segment operating earnings  $696.0   $549.6   $146.4    27%
                     
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce(a) sold(b)  $681   $661   $20    3%

 

(a)“Gold equivalent ounces” include silver ounces produced and sold converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average spot market prices for the commodities for each period. The ratio for 2024 was 84.43:1 (2023 – 83.13:1).

(b)“Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

(c)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

Kinross acquired its 100% interest in the Tasiast mine on September 17, 2010 upon completing its acquisition of Red Back Mining Inc. The Tasiast mine is an open pit operation located in north-western Mauritania and is approximately 300 kilometres north of the capital, Nouakchott.

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold in 2024 were comparable to 2023. Mining at Tasiast in 2024 decreased at West Branch 4 and capital development increased at West Branch 5, resulting in a 22% decrease in tonnes of ore mined compared to 2023. Mill grades decreased by 24% in 2024 compared to 2023 as a result of mine sequencing, blending ore from West Branch 4 with ore from stockpiles. Mill throughput increased by 29% in 2024 compared to 2023 as Tasiast continued to achieve higher throughput levels after the completion of the 24k project in the second half of 2023, which modified the grinding circuit, added new leaching and thickening capacity, and improved onsite power generation and water supply.

 

Metal sales increased by 21% compared to 2023, due to the 23% increase in average metal prices realized. Production cost of sales increased by 2% in 2024, compared to 2023, primarily due to higher royalties as a result of the increase in average metal prices and higher labour costs, largely offset by a higher proportion of costs allocated to capital development. Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold increased by 3% in 2024 compared to 2023 as a result of the increase in production cost of sales. Depreciation, depletion and amortization increased by 46% in 2024, primarily due to an increase in the depreciable asset base and the inclusion of ore from stockpiles with a higher depreciation cost.

 

16

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Paracatu – Brazil

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023   Change   % Change 
Operating Statistics                    
Tonnes ore mined (000's)   54,243    53,845    398    1%
Tonnes processed (000's)   58,329    60,182    (1,853)   (3)%
Grade (grams/tonne)   0.36    0.39    (0.03)   (8)%
Recovery   80.2%   79.1%   1.1%   1%
Gold equivalent ounces(a):                    
Produced   528,574    587,999    (59,425)   (10)%
Sold   528,209    592,224    (64,015)   (11)%
                     
Earnings (in millions)                    
Metal sales  $1,258.9   $1,149.6   $109.3    10%
Production cost of sales   548.6    538.6    10.0    2%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   189.3    186.6    2.7    1%
    521.0    424.4    96.6    23%
Other operating expense   7.5    11.3    (3.8)   (34)%
Exploration and business development   7.9    5.6    2.3    41%
Segment operating earnings  $505.6   $407.5   $98.1    24%
                     
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce(a) sold(b)  $1,039   $909   $130    14%

 

(a)“Gold equivalent ounces” include silver ounces produced and sold converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average spot market prices for the commodities for each period. The ratio for 2024 was 84.43:1 (2023 – 83.13:1).

(b)“Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

 

The Company acquired a 49% ownership interest in the Paracatu open pit mine, located in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil, upon the acquisition of TVX Gold Inc. on January 31, 2003. On December 31, 2004, the Company purchased the remaining 51% of Paracatu from Rio Tinto Plc.

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold in 2024 decreased by 10% and 11%, respectively, compared to 2023 primarily due to lower grades and throughput, as a result of changes in ore hardness, consistent with Paracatu’s planned mine sequencing.

 

Metal sales increased by 10% compared to 2023, due to the 23% increase in average metal prices realized, partially offset by the decrease in gold equivalent ounces sold. Production cost of sales increased by 2% compared to 2023, due to higher drilling contractor and blasting supply costs, partially offset by favourable foreign exchange rates and lower gold equivalent ounces sold. Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold increased by 14% in 2024 compared to 2023 as a result of the decrease in gold equivalent ounces produced and increase in production cost of sales. Depreciation, depletion and amortization increased by 1% compared to 2023, primarily due to an increase in the depreciable asset base and a decrease in mineral reserves at the end of 2023, partially offset by the decrease in gold equivalent ounces sold.

 

17

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

La Coipa – Chile

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023   Change   % Change(c) 
Operating Statistics                    
Tonnes ore mined (000's)    3,896    4,345    (449)   (10)%
Tonnes processed (000's)   3,535    3,867    (332)   (9)%
Grade (grams/tonne):                    
Gold   2.05    1.74    0.31    18%
Silver   60.12    107.68    (47.56)   (44)%
Recovery:                    
Gold   82.5%   81.3%   1.2%   1%
Silver   51.8%   56.5%   (4.7)%   (8)%
Gold equivalent ounces(a):                    
Produced   246,131    260,138    (14,007)   (5)%
Sold   241,077    268,491    (27,414)   (10)%
Silver ounces:                    
Produced (000's)   3,831    7,670    (3,839)   (50)%
Sold (000's)   3,780    8,021    (4,241)   (53)%
                     
Earnings (in millions)                    
Metal sales  $573.3   $522.6   $50.7    10%
Production cost of sales   231.3    182.8    48.5    27%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   118.3    187.8    (69.5)   (37)%
    223.7    152.0    71.7    47%
Other operating expense (income)   9.6    (8.2)   17.8    nm 
Exploration and business development   3.3    13.0    (9.7)   (75)%
Segment operating earnings  $210.8   $147.2   $63.6    43%
                     
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce(a) sold(b)  $959   $681   $278    41%

 

(a)“Gold equivalent ounces” include silver ounces produced and sold converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average spot market prices for the commodities for each period. The ratio for 2024 was 84.43:1 (2023 – 83.13:1).

(b)“Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

(c)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

Kinross acquired its 100% interest in the La Coipa open pit mine, located in the Atacama region in Chile, in 2007. In February 2022, the mine poured its first gold bar after restarting operations following the suspension of activities since October 2013.

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Gold equivalent ounces produced in 2024 decreased by 5% compared to 2023, due to a decrease in silver grades and throughput, partially offset by an increase in gold grades. Planned mine sequencing at La Coipa, with an increased focus on Phase 7 and capital development of the Puren 2 pit, resulted in an 18% increase in gold grades, a 44% decrease in silver grades, and a 10% decrease in tonnes of ore mined in 2024 compared to 2023. Tonnes processed in 2024 were 9% lower compared to 2023, due to increased maintenance activity in 2024. Gold equivalent ounces sold decreased by 10% compared to 2023, due to the decrease in production and the timing of sales in 2023.

 

Metal sales increased by 10% compared to 2023, due to the 23% increase in average metal prices realized, partially offset by the decrease in gold equivalent ounces sold. Production cost of sales increased by 27% compared to 2023, primarily due to a lower proportion of mining activities related to capital development in 2024 and higher mill maintenance costs, partially offset by favourable foreign exchange rates and the decrease in gold equivalent ounces sold. Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold increased by 41% in 2024 compared to 2023 as a result of the increase in production cost of sales and decrease in gold equivalent ounces produced. Depreciation, depletion and amortization decreased by 37% compared to 2023, due to the decrease in gold equivalent ounces sold and an adjustment recorded in the period.

 

18

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Fort Knox (100% basis) – USA(a)

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023   Change   % Change(f) 
Operating Statistics                    
Tonnes ore mined (000's)   33,672    32,705    967    3%
Tonnes processed (000's)(b)    34,131    36,826    (2,695)   (7)%
Grade (grams/tonne)(c)   1.49    0.77    0.72    94%
Recovery(c)   85.4%   79.9%   5.5%   7%
Gold equivalent ounces(d):                    
Produced   377,258    290,651    86,607    30%
Sold   375,402    287,532    87,870    31%
                     
Earnings (in millions)                    
Metal sales  $912.5   $557.9   $354.6    64%
Production cost of sales   452.5    343.5    109.0    32%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   140.9    96.8    44.1    46%
Impairment charge   -    38.9    (38.9)   nm 
    319.1    78.7    240.4    nm 
Other operating expense   0.5    0.8    (0.3)   (38)%
Exploration and business development   11.6    12.8    (1.2)   (9)%
Segment operating earnings  $307.0   $65.1   $241.9    nm 
                     
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce(d) sold(e)  $1,205   $1,195   $10    1%

 

(a)The Fort Knox segment includes Manh Choh, which was aggregated with Fort Knox during the year ended December 31, 2024. Results for all periods include 100% for Manh Choh. Comparative results are presented in accordance with the current year’s presentation.

(b)Includes 27,649,000 tonnes placed on the heap leach pad during 2024 (2023 – 28,700,000 tonnes).

(c)Amount represents mill grade and recovery only. Ore placed on the heap leach pads had an average grade of 0.22 grams per tonne during 2024 (2023 – 0.22 grams per tonne). Due to the nature of heap leach operations, point-in-time recovery rates are not meaningful.

(d)“Gold equivalent ounces” include silver ounces produced and sold converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average spot market prices for the commodities for each period. The ratio for 2024 was 84.43:1 (2023 – 83.13:1).

(e)“Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

(f)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

The Company has been operating the Fort Knox open pit mine, located near Fairbanks, Alaska, since it was acquired in 1998. In September 2020, the Company acquired a 70% ownership interest in Manh Choh, located approximately 400 kilometres southeast of the Fort Knox mine. Construction and commissioning of the Fort Knox mill modifications were completed in the third quarter of 2024, with production from the open pit Manh Choh mine having commenced in July 2024.

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold in 2024 increased by 30% and 31%, respectively, compared to 2023, primarily due to the production of higher-grade, higher-recovery ore from Manh Choh in the second half of 2024. Tonnes of ore mined and mill grades increased by 3% and 94%, respectively, compared to 2023, due to the ramp up of mining at Manh Choh and planned mine sequencing at Fort Knox, which included Phase 9 leachable ore and the advancement of Phase 10. This was partially offset by a decrease in mill throughput as the higher-grade Manh Choh ore requires a longer retention time in the leach circuit, as well as reduced gravity circuit availability and leaching circuit performance in the first quarter of 2024.

 

Metal sales increased by 64% compared to 2023, due to the increase in gold equivalent ounces sold and the 23% increase in average metal prices realized. Production cost of sales increased by 32% compared to 2023, primarily due to the increase in gold equivalent ounces sold, as well as higher contractor, royalty and reagent costs, largely related to the start of Manh Choh production. Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold in 2024 was comparable to 2023. Depreciation, depletion, and amortization increased by 46% in 2024 compared to 2023 due to the increase in gold equivalent ounces sold as well as an increase in the depreciable asset base with the addition of Manh Choh, and a decrease in mineral reserves at the end of 2023.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recorded an impairment charge of $38.9 million related to a reduction in the estimate of recoverable ounces on the heap leach pads due to changes in estimated recovery rates. The tax impact of the impairment charge was an income tax recovery of $3.1 million.

 

19

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Round Mountain – USA

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023   Change   % Change(e) 
Operating Statistics                    
Tonnes ore mined (000's)   13,271    28,655    (15,384)   (54)%
Tonnes processed (000's)(a)   10,890    28,462    (17,572)   (62)%
Grade (grams/tonne)(b)   1.07    0.78    0.29    37%
Recovery(b)   76.3%   74.0%   2.3%   3%
Gold equivalent ounces(c):                    
Produced   215,387    235,690    (20,303)   (9)%
Sold   214,996    234,064    (19,068)   (8)%
                     
Earnings (in millions)                    
Metal sales  $506.8   $454.4   $52.4    12%
Production cost of sales   328.3    357.7    (29.4)   (8)%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   193.2    157.2    36.0    23%
Impairment reversal   (74.1)   -    (74.1)   nm 
    59.4    (60.5)   119.9    nm 
Other operating (income) expense   (9.7)   4.1    (13.8)   nm 
Exploration and business development   54.1    35.7    18.4    52%
Segment operating earnings (loss)  $15.0   $(100.3)  $115.3    nm 
                     
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce(c) sold(d)  $1,527   $1,528   $(1)   (0)%

 

(a)Includes 7,566,000 tonnes placed on the heap leach pads during 2024 (2023 – 24,768,000 tonnes).

(b)Amount represents mill grade and recovery only. Ore placed on the heap leach pads had an average grade of 0.32 grams per tonne in 2024 (2023 – 0.39 grams per tonne). Due to the nature of heap leach operations, point-in-time recovery rates are not meaningful.

(c)“Gold equivalent ounces” include silver ounces produced and sold converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average spot market prices for the commodities for each period. The ratio for 2024 was 84.43:1 (2023 – 83.13:1).

(d)“Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

(e)"nm" means not meaningful.

 

The Company acquired a 50% ownership interest in the Round Mountain open pit mine, located in Nye County, Nevada, with the acquisition of Echo Bay Mines Ltd. on January 31, 2003. On January 11, 2016, the Company acquired the remaining 50% interest in Round Mountain, along with the Bald Mountain gold mine, from Barrick Gold Corporation (“Barrick”).

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Gold equivalent ounces produced and sold in 2024 decreased by 9% and 8%, respectively, compared to 2023, due to fewer ounces recovered from the heap leach pads, partially offset by higher mill grades. Tonnes of ore mined decreased by 54% in 2024 compared to 2023, due to planned mine sequencing, which included deeper, higher-grade ore benches of Phase W2 and the start of Phase S capital development in early 2024. Tonnes processed decreased by 62%, compared to 2023, due to the decrease in tonnes of ore mined and placed on the heap leach pads. During 2024, mill grades increased by 37% as a result of mining the deeper, higher-grade benches of Phase W2.

 

Metal sales increased by 12% in 2024 compared to 2023, due to the 23% increase in average metal prices realized, partially offset by the decrease in gold equivalent ounces sold. Production cost of sales decreased by 8% compared to 2023 primarily due to a higher proportion of costs allocated to capital development, related to the start of Phase S development in early 2024, and the decrease in gold equivalent ounces sold, partially offset by higher royalties as a result of the increase in average metal prices. Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold in 2024 was comparable to 2023. Depreciation, depletion and amortization increased by 23% in 2024 compared to 2023 due to a decrease in mineral reserves at Phase W at the end of 2023 and a higher depreciable asset base as a result of the impairment reversal recognized in the third quarter of 2024, as discussed below, partially offset by the decrease in gold equivalent ounces sold.

 

In 2024, the Company recognized an after-tax reversal of a previously recorded impairment charge of $73.4 million related to property, plant and equipment, as a result of an increase in the Company’s estimates of future gold prices. The tax impact of the impairment reversal at Round Mountain was an income tax expense of $0.7 million.

 

Exploration activity at Round Mountain was higher in 2024 compared to 2023, focusing primarily on the continued development of the Phase X underground exploration decline, which began late in the first quarter of 2023, as well as exploration drilling in between the open pit and the underground target.

 

20

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Bald Mountain – USA

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023   Change   % Change(d) 
Operating Statistics                    
Tonnes ore mined (000's)   18,392    17,312    1,080    6%
Tonnes processed (000's)   18,392    17,306    1,086    6%
Grade (grams/tonne)(a)   0.48    0.42    0.06    14%
Gold equivalent ounces(b):                    
Produced   181,047    157,749    23,298    15%
Sold   182,760    180,139    2,621    1%
                     
Earnings (in millions)                    
Metal sales  $438.2   $349.6   $88.6    25%
Production cost of sales   220.3    223.5    (3.2)   (1)%
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   143.0    107.8    35.2    33%
    74.9    18.3    56.6    nm 
Other operating expense   0.9    1.2    (0.3)   (25)%
Exploration and business development   6.0    3.2    2.8    88%
Segment operating earnings  $68.0   $13.9   $54.1    nm 
                     
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce(b) sold(c)  $1,205   $1,241   $(36)   (3)%

 

(a)Due to the nature of heap leach operations, point-in-time recovery rates are not meaningful.

(b)“Gold equivalent ounces” include silver ounces produced and sold converted to a gold equivalent based on a ratio of the average spot market prices for the commodities for each period. The ratio for 2024 was 84.43:1 (2023 – 83.13:1).

(c)“Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

(d)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

The Company completed the acquisition of 100% of the Bald Mountain open pit mine on January 11, 2016 from Barrick, which includes a large associated land package. On October 2, 2018, the Company acquired the remaining 50% interest in the Bald Mountain exploration joint venture that it did not already own from Barrick, giving Kinross 100% ownership of the Bald Mountain land package.

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Gold equivalent ounces produced in 2024 increased by 15% compared to 2023 due to higher grades. Planned mine sequencing at Bald Mountain focused primarily on the development and mining of Saga 6, resulting in a 6% increase in tonnes of ore mined and processed, and a 14% increase in grade in 2024 compared to 2023. Gold equivalent ounces sold in 2024 were comparable to 2023 and were higher than production due to the timing of sales.

 

Metal sales increased by 25% compared to 2023, primarily due to the increases in average metal prices realized. Production cost of sales were comparable to 2023, as lower supplies costs were offset by a lower proportion of mining activities related to capital development. Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold decreased by 3% in 2024 compared to 2023 as a result of the increase in gold equivalent ounces produced and the slight decrease in production cost of sales. Depreciation, depletion and amortization increased by 33% compared to 2023, primarily due to an increase in the depreciable asset base, largely related to the completion of Saga 6 capital development in the first quarter of 2024.

 

21

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Consolidated Results

 

Impairment (Reversal) Charge

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023   Change   % Change(a) 
Property, plant and equipment  $(74.1)  $-   $(74.1)   nm 
Inventories   -    38.9    (38.9)   nm 
   $(74.1)  $38.9   $(113.0)   nm 

 

(a)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

In the third quarter of 2024, the Company recorded a reversal of a previously recorded impairment charge of $74.1 million, related entirely to property, plant and equipment at Round Mountain, as a result of an increase in the Company’s estimates of future gold prices. The reversal was limited to the carrying value that would have been determined, net of any applicable depreciation, had no impairment charge been previously recognized, and represents the full reversal of the impairment charge previously recorded in 2022. The tax impact of the impairment reversal was an income tax expense of $0.7 million.

 

In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company recognized an impairment charge of $38.9 million related to a reduction in the estimate of recoverable ounces on the Fort Knox heap leach pads due to changes in estimated recovery rates. The tax impact of the impairment was an income tax recovery of $3.1 million.

 

Exploration and Business Development

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023   Change   % Change 
Exploration and business development  $197.8   $185.0   $12.8    7%

 

Included in total exploration and business development expense are expenditures on exploration and technical evaluations totaling $166.4 million compared to $158.9 million in 2023. The increase was primarily as a result of higher spending at Round Mountain Phase X, partially offset by lower spending at Great Bear.

 

Capitalized exploration and evaluation expenditures, which relate to Lobo-Marte and Great Bear and include capitalized interest, totaled $92.1 million compared to $93.4 million in 2023. Total expensed and capitalized exploration and evaluation expenditures were $258.5 million in 2024 compared to $252.3 million in 2023.

 

General and Administrative

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023   Change   % Change 
General and administrative(a)  $126.2   $108.7   $17.5    16%

 

(a)Included within general and administrative expenses is $11.5 million (2023 – $8.7 million) relating to share-based compensation.

 

General and administrative expenses include costs related to the overall management of the business which are not part of direct mine operating costs. These costs are incurred at corporate offices located in Canada, the United States, Brazil, Chile, the Netherlands, and Spain.

 

Finance Expense

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023   Change   % Change 
Interest expense, including accretion of lease liabilities  $50.5   $69.0   $(18.5)   (27)%
Accretion of reclamation and remediation obligations   40.9    37.0    3.9    11%
Finance expense  $91.4   $106.0   $(14.6)   (14)%

 

Interest expense decreased by $18.5 million compared to 2023. Interest capitalized in 2024 was $88.2 million, compared to $108.9 million 2023. Total interest decreased in 2024 compared to 2023, primarily due to repayments of debt in the second half of 2023 and throughout 2024.

 

Accretion of reclamation and remediation obligations increased by $3.9 million compared to 2023 primarily as a result of increases in the cost estimates for the Company’s reclamation and remediation obligations.

 

22

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Income and Other Taxes

 

Kinross is subject to tax in various jurisdictions including Canada, the United States, Brazil, Chile and Mauritania.

 

The Company recorded an income tax expense of $487.4 million in 2024 (2023 – $293.2 million), including a $86.4 million deferred tax expense in 2024 (2023 – $29.3 million) resulting from the net foreign currency translation of tax deductions related to the Company’s operations in Brazil and Mauritania. Income tax expense in 2024 is also net of a $32.6 million deferred tax recovery as a result of a change in uncertain tax positions. Kinross' combined federal and provincial statutory tax rate for both 2024 and 2023 was 26.5%.

 

There are a number of factors that can significantly impact the Company’s effective tax rate, including geographical distribution of income, varying rates in different jurisdictions, the non-recognition of tax assets, mining allowance, mining specific taxes, foreign currency exchange movements, changes in tax laws, and the impact of specific transactions and assessments.

 

Kinross’ tax records, transactions and filing positions may be subject to examination by the tax authorities in the countries in which the Company has operations. The tax authorities may review the Company’s transactions in respect of the year, or multiple years, which they have chosen for examination. The tax authorities may interpret the tax implications of a transaction, in form or in fact, differently from the interpretation reached by the Company.

 

In circumstances where the Company and the tax authority cannot reach a consensus on the tax impact, there are processes and procedures which both parties may undertake in order to reach a resolution, which may span many years in the future. The Company assesses the expected outcome of examination of transactions by the tax authorities and accrues the expected outcome in accordance with IFRS.

 

Uncertainty in the interpretation and application of applicable tax laws, regulations or the relevant sections of Mining Conventions by the tax authorities, or the failure of relevant Governments or tax authorities to honour tax laws, regulations or the relevant sections of Mining Conventions could adversely affect Kinross.

 

Due to the number of factors that can potentially impact the effective tax rate and the sensitivity of the tax provision to these factors, as discussed above, it is expected that the Company's effective tax rate will fluctuate in future periods.

 

The Global Minimum Tax Act (“GMTA”) was enacted in Canada on June 20, 2024. The GMTA includes a 15% global minimum tax (“top-up tax”) that applies to large multinational enterprise groups with global consolidated revenues over €750 million. As a result, the Company will be subject to the top-up tax rules for its 2024 taxation year. The GMTA did not have a material impact on the Company in 2024 and is not expected to have a material impact going forward, as none of the Company’s jurisdictions are expected to be subject to any material top up tax amounts for 2024 and onwards.

 

Discontinued Operations

 

Chirano discontinued operations

 

On August 10, 2022, the Company announced that it had completed the sale of its 90% interest in the Chirano mine in Ghana to Asante Gold Corporation (“Asante”) for total consideration of $225.0 million in cash and shares. In accordance with the sale agreement, which was amended on February 10, 2023, the Company received $60.0 million in cash and 34,962,584 Asante shares on closing, and the remaining cash consideration of $128.8 million was to be received over the two-year period subsequent to closing. The total deferred consideration is secured through pledges by Asante of equity interests in certain acquired entities holding an indirect interest in the Chirano mine. The Company’s Chirano operations were classified as discontinued operations in 2022.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company received $10.0 million (year ended December 31, 2023 – $5.0 million) in respect of the deferred payment consideration, which was recognized as net cash flow in discontinued operations from investing activities. As at December 31, 2024, the fair value of the remaining deferred payment consideration is $100.0 million (December 31, 2023 – $107.9 million) and is classified as a current receivable.

 

Russian discontinued operations

 

On June 15, 2022, the Company announced that it had completed the sale of its Russian operations to the Highland Gold Mining group of companies for total cash consideration of $340.0 million, of which $300.0 million was received on closing and the remaining $40.0 million was received during the second quarter of 2023 and recognized as net cash flow in discontinued operations from investing activities.

 

23

 

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

6.LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

The following table summarizes Kinross’ cash flow activity:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023   Change   % Change(b) 
Net cash flow provided from operating activities  $2,446.4   $1,605.3   $841.1    52%
Net cash flow of continuing operations used in investing activities   (1,189.9)   (1,167.2)   (22.7)   nm 
Net cash flow of discontinued operations provided from investing activities(a)   10.0    45.0    (35.0)   (78)%
Net cash flow used in financing activities   (1,005.9)   (549.0)   (456.9)   nm 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents   (1.5)   0.2    (1.7)   nm 
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents   259.1    (65.7)   324.8    nm 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period   352.4    418.1    (65.7)   (16)%
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period  $611.5   $352.4   $259.1    74%

  

(a)The cash inflows in 2024 represent proceeds in respect of the sale of the Company’s Chirano operations, while the cash inflows in 2023 represent proceeds received in respect of the sale of the Company’s Russian and Chirano operations. The Chirano and Russian operations were both classified as discontinued in 2022.
(b)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

Cash and cash equivalent balances increased by $259.1 million compared to a decrease of $65.7 million in 2023. Detailed discussions regarding cash flow movements are noted below.

 

Operating Activities

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Net cash flow provided from operating activities increased by $841.1 million compared to 2023, primarily due to the increase in margins and favourable working capital movements.

 

Investing Activities

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Net cash flow of continuing operations used in investing activities was $1,189.9 million in 2024, compared to $1,167.2 million in 2023. Cash was primarily used for capital expenditures of $1,075.5 million (2023 – $1,098.3 million) and interest paid capitalized to property, plant and equipment of $92.6 million (2023 – $114.1 million).

 

The following table presents a breakdown of capital expenditures(a) on a cash basis:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023   Change   % Change(d) 
Operating segments                    
Tasiast  $343.9   $309.0   $34.9    11%
Paracatu   140.5    167.5    (27.0)   (16)%
La Coipa   69.4    74.8    (5.4)   (7)%
Fort Knox(b)   292.2    368.4    (76.2)   (21)%
Round Mountain   126.3    30.5    95.8    nm 
Bald Mountain   49.5    120.3    (70.8)   (59)%
Non-operating segments                    
Great Bear   43.9    24.8    19.1    77%
Corporate and other(c)   9.8    3.0    6.8    nm 
Total  $1,075.5    1,098.3   $(22.8)   (2)%

 

(a)“Capital expenditures” is as reported as “Additions to property, plant and equipment” on the consolidated statements of cash flows.
(b)The Fort Knox segment includes Manh Choh, which was aggregated with Fort Knox during 2024. Results for all periods include 100% for Manh Choh. Comparative results are presented in accordance with the current year’s presentation.
(c)“Corporate and other” includes corporate and other non-operating assets (including Kettle River-Buckhorn, Lobo-Marte, and Maricunga).
(d)“nm” means not meaningful.

 

24

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Capital expenditures in 2024 were $1,075.5 million, consistent with the prior year. Capital expenditures in 2024 included the start of Phase S capital development at Round Mountain, continued spending at Great Bear and increased capital development at Tasiast for West Branch 5. These were offset by reduced spending on the construction of Manh Choh, which was completed in 2024, and the completion of heap leach pad expansions at Bald Mountain at the end of 2023.

 

Financing Activities

 

2024 vs. 2023

 

Net cash flow used in financing activities was $1,005.9 million compared with $549.0 million in 2023. Cash outflows in 2024 included total term loan repayments of $800.0 million, dividends paid to common shareholders of $147.5 million and interest paid of $35.6 million. In 2023, net cash flow used in financing activities included total debt repayments of $960.0 million, of which $500.0 million was for the 5.950% senior notes due March 15, 2024, $300.0 million was for the revolving credit facility and $160.0 million was for the Tasiast loan. These cash outflows were partially offset by net proceeds received from the issuance of $500.0 million 6.250% senior notes due in 2033 and drawings of $100.0 million on the revolving credit facility. In addition, cash outflows in 2023 included dividends paid to common shareholders of $147.3 million and interest paid of $53.2 million.

 

Balance Sheets

 

   As at December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023   2022 
Cash and cash equivalents  $611.5   $352.4   $418.1 
Current assets  $2,126.7   $1,802.3   $1,852.6 
Total assets  $10,865.6   $10,543.3   $10,396.4 
Current liabilities, including current portion of long-term debt  $1,060.1   $685.5   $751.5 
Total debt and credit facilities, including current portion  $1,435.4   $2,232.6   $2,592.9 
Total liabilities  $3,865.0   $4,357.6   $4,514.2 
Common shareholders' equity  $6,861.6   $6,083.7   $5,823.7 
Non-controlling interests  $139.0   $102.0   $58.5 

 

Current assets and total assets increased by $324.4 million and $322.3 million, respectively, primarily due to the increase in cash and cash equivalents and an increase in inventories. Current liabilities increased by $374.6 million to $1,060.1 million, primarily due to the reclassification of the $1.0 billion term loan from long-term to current, offset by repayments of $800.0 million of that term loan in 2024, as well as an increase in current income tax payable. Total liabilities decreased by $492.6 million to $3,865.0 million, primarily due to the term loan repayments, partially offset by the increase in current income tax payable, an increase in reclamation and remediation obligations and an increase in deferred tax liabilities.

 

As at December 31, 2023, Kinross had cash and cash equivalents of $352.4 million, a decrease of $65.7 million from the prior year. The decrease is primarily due to additions to property, plant and equipment of $1,098.3 million, interest paid of $167.3 million, net repayment of debt of $371.9 million, and dividend payments of $147.3 million, partially offset by net cash flow provided from operating activities of $1,605.3 million. Current assets at December 31, 2023 of $1,802.3 million is comparable to the prior year. Total assets increased by $146.9 million to $10,543.3 million mainly due to an increase in property, plant and equipment. Current liabilities decreased by $66.0 million to $685.5 million, primarily due to the repayment of debt and decreases in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Total liabilities decreased by $156.6 million to $4,357.6 million, mainly due to net repayment of debt in 2023, partially offset by an increase in provisions and deferred tax liabilities.

 

As of February 11, 2025, there were 1,229.1 million common shares of the Company issued and outstanding. In addition, at the same date, the Company had 34.6 thousand share purchase options outstanding under its share option plan as well as 6.2 million restricted share units and 4.2 million restricted performance share units outstanding under its restricted share unit plans.

 

On February 12, 2025, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.03 per common share payable on March 20, 2025, to shareholders of record on March 5, 2025.

 

25

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Financings and Credit Facilities

 

The total carrying amount of debt of $1,435.4 million as at December 31, 2024 consists of $1,235.5 million for the senior notes, which are classified as long-term, and $199.9 million for the term loan, which is classified as current.

 

Senior notes

 

The Company’s senior notes consist of $500.0 million principal amount of 4.50% notes due in 2027, $500.0 million principal amount of 6.250% notes due in 2033 and $250.0 million principal amount of 6.875% notes due in 2041.

 

The senior notes (collectively, the “notes”) pay interest semi-annually. Except as noted below, the notes are redeemable by the Company, in whole or part, for cash at any time prior to maturity, at a redemption price equal to the greater of 100% of the principal amount or the sum of the present value of the remaining scheduled principal and interest payments on the notes discounted at the applicable treasury rate, as defined in the indentures, plus a premium of between 45 and 50 basis points, plus accrued interest, if any. Within three months of maturity of the notes due in 2027 and 2033, and within six months of maturity of the notes due in 2041, the Company can redeem the notes at 100% of the principal amount plus accrued interest, if any. In addition, the Company is required to make an offer to repurchase the notes prior to maturity upon certain fundamental changes at a repurchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued and unpaid interest to the repurchase date, if any.

 

Revolving credit facility and term loan

 

As at December 31, 2024, the Company had utilized $6.9 million (December 31, 2023 – $6.8 million) of its $1,500.0 million revolving credit facility, entirely for letters of credit.

 

On October 28, 2024, the Company amended its $1,500.0 million revolving credit facility to extend the maturity by two years to October 2029, restoring a five-year term.

 

The term loan, maturing on March 7, 2025, has no mandatory amortization payments and can be repaid at any time prior to maturity. During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company repaid $800.0 million of the outstanding balance on the term loan, with $200.0 million in principal outstanding as of December 31, 2024. On February 10, 2025, the Company repaid the remaining $200.0 million outstanding balance on the term loan.

 

Loan interest on the revolving credit facility and term loan is variable and is dependent on the Company’s credit rating. Based on the Company’s credit rating at December 31, 2024, interest charges and fees are as follows:

 

Type of credit     
Revolving credit facility  SOFR plus 1.45%  
Term loan  SOFR plus 1.25%  
Letters of credit  0.967-1.45%  
Standby fee applicable to unused availability  0.29%  


The revolving credit facility agreement and the term loan agreement contain various covenants including limits on indebtedness, asset sales and liens. The Company was in compliance with its financial covenant in the credit agreements as at December 31, 2024.

 

Other

 

Effective July 1, 2024, the Company entered into an amendment to increase the Letter of Credit guarantee facility with Export Development Canada (“EDC”) from $300.0 million to $400.0 million and extended the maturity date from June 30, 2024 to June 30, 2026. Total fees related to letters of credit under this facility were 0.75% of the utilized amount. As at December 31, 2024, $247.2 million (December 31, 2023 – $235.7 million) was utilized under this facility.

 

In addition, as at December 31, 2024, the Company had $738.9 million (December 31, 2023 – $617.9 million) in letters of credit and surety bonds outstanding in respect of its operations in Brazil, Mauritania, the United States and Chile, as well as its discontinued operations in Ghana, which have been issued pursuant to arrangements with certain international banks and insurance companies and incur average fees of approximately 0.63%.

 

26

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

The following table outlines the credit facility utilizations and availabilities:

 

   As at, 
   December 31,   December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023 
Utilization of revolving credit facility  $(6.9)  $(6.8)
Utilization of EDC facility   (247.2)   (235.7)
Borrowings  $(254.1)  $(242.5)
           
Available under revolving credit facility  $1,493.1   $1,493.2 
Available under EDC credit facility   152.8    64.3 
Available credit  $1,645.9   $1,557.5 

 

Liquidity Outlook

 

As at December 31, 2024, debt obligations in the next 12 months include debt repayments for the remaining principal balance of $200.0 million on the term loan and estimated interest payments of approximately $75.0 million relating to the senior notes and term loan. On February 10, 2025, the Company repaid the remaining $200.0 million outstanding balance on the term loan.

 

We believe that the Company’s existing cash and cash equivalents balance of $611.5 million, available credit of $1,645.9 million, and expected operating cash flows based on current assumptions (noted in Section 3 – Outlook) will be sufficient to fund operations, our forecasted exploration and capital expenditures (noted in Section 3 – Outlook), principal and interest payments noted above, reclamation and remediation obligations, lease liabilities, and working capital requirements currently estimated for the next 12 months. Prior to any capital investments, consideration is given to the cost and availability of various sources of capital resources.

 

With respect to longer term capital expenditure funding requirements, the Company continues to have discussions with lending institutions that have been active in the jurisdictions in which the Company’s development projects are located. Some of the jurisdictions in which the Company operates have seen the participation of additional lenders that include export credit agencies, development banks and multi-lateral agencies. The Company believes the capital from these institutions combined with traditional bank loans and capital available through debt capital market transactions may fund a portion of the Company’s longer term capital expenditure requirements. Another possible source of capital could be proceeds from the sale of non-core assets. These capital sources together with operating cash flow and the Company’s active management of its operations and development activities will enable the Company to maintain an appropriate overall liquidity position.

 

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

 

The following table summarizes our contractual obligations and commitments as at December 31, 2024:

 

(in millions)  Total   2025   2026-2029   2030 & thereafter 
Debt(a)  $1,450.0   $200.0   $500.0   $750.0 
Lease liability obligations   21.2    4.7    14.1    2.4 
Operating lease obligations   34.3    19.3    12.8    2.2 
Purchase obligations(b)   2,419.0    1,405.4    959.1    54.5 
Reclamation and remediation obligations   1,688.3    58.6    374.4    1,255.3 
Other liabilities and provisions   24.7    6.8    7.1    10.8 
Interest and other fees   694.8    84.0    274.9    335.9 
Total  $6,332.3   $1,778.8   $2,142.4   $2,411.1 

 

(a)Debt repayments are based on amounts due pursuant to the terms of existing indebtedness. The $200.0 million in 2025 was repaid on February 10, 2025, as noted above.
(b)Includes both capital and operating commitments, of which $420.3 million relates to commitments for capital expenditures.


The Company manages its exposure to fluctuations in input commodity prices, currency exchange rates and interest rates, by entering into derivative financial instruments from time to time, in accordance with the Company's risk management policy.

 

27

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

The following table provides a summary of derivative contracts outstanding at December 31, 2024 and their respective maturities:

 

    2025     2026  
Foreign currency            
Brazilian real zero cost collars (in millions of U.S. dollars)  $167.8   $84.0 
Average put strike (Brazilian real)   5.16    5.50 
Average call strike (Brazilian real)   6.64    7.94 
Canadian dollar forward buy contracts (in millions of U.S. dollars)  $139.2   $60.0 
Average forward rate (Canadian dollar)   1.36    1.37 
Chilean peso zero cost collars (in millions of U.S. dollars)  $80.0   $- 
Average put strike (Chilean peso)   880    - 
Average call strike (Chilean peso)   1,052    - 
Energy                
WTI oil swap contracts (barrels)   1,105,200    300,000 
Average price  $68.23   $65.30 

 

The Company enters into total return swaps (“TRS”) as economic hedges of the Company’s deferred share units and cash-settled restricted share units. Hedge accounting was not applied to the TRSs. At December 31, 2024, 4,365,000 TRS units were outstanding.

 

In order to manage short-term metal price risk, the Company may enter into derivative contracts in relation to metal sales that it believes are highly likely to occur within a given quarter. No such contracts were outstanding at December 31, 2024 or December 31, 2023.

 

Fair value of derivative instruments

 

The fair values of derivative instruments are noted in the table below:

 

   As at 
   December 31,   December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023 
Asset (liability)          
Foreign currency forward and collar contracts  $(17.7)  $7.4 
Energy swap contracts   1.8    1.0 
Other contracts   1.4    6.9 
   $(14.5)  $15.3 

 

Other legal matters

 

The Company is, from time to time, involved in legal proceedings, arising in the ordinary course of its business. Typically, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to these actions will not, in the opinion of management, materially affect Kinross’ financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

Maricunga regulatory proceedings

 

In May 2015, Chilean environmental enforcement authority (“SMA”) commenced an administrative proceeding against Compania Minera Maricunga (“CMM”) alleging that pumping of groundwater to support the Maricunga operation had impacted area wetlands and, on March 18, 2016, issued a resolution alleging that CMM’s pumping was impacting the “Valle Ancho” wetland. Beginning in May 2016, the SMA issued a series of resolutions ordering CMM to temporarily curtail pumping from its wells.

 

In response, CMM suspended mining and crushing activities and reduced water consumption to minimal levels. CMM contested these resolutions, but its efforts were unsuccessful and, except for a short period of time in July 2016, CMM’s operations have remained suspended. On June 24, 2016, the SMA amended its initial sanction (the “Amended Sanction”) and effectively required CMM to cease operations and close the mine, with water use from its wells curtailed to minimal levels. On July 9, 2016, CMM appealed the sanctions and, on August 30, 2016, submitted a request to the Environmental Tribunal that it issue an injunction suspending the effectiveness of the Amended Sanction pending a final decision on the merits of CMM’s appeal. On September 16, 2016, the Environmental Tribunal rejected CMM’s injunction request and on August 7, 2017, upheld the SMA’s Amended Sanction and curtailment orders on procedural grounds. On October 9, 2018, the Supreme Court affirmed the Environmental Tribunal’s ruling on procedural grounds and dismissed CMM’s appeal.

 

28

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

On June 2, 2016, CMM was served with two separate lawsuits filed by the Chilean State Defense Counsel (“CDE”). Both lawsuits, filed with the Environmental Tribunal, alleged that pumping from the Maricunga groundwater wells caused environmental damage to area wetlands. One action relates to the “Pantanillo” wetland and the other action relates to the Valle Ancho wetland (described above). On November 23, 2018, the Tribunal ruled in favor of CMM in the Pantanillo case and against CMM in the Valle Ancho case. In the Valle Ancho case, the Tribunal required CMM to, among other things, submit a restoration plan to the SMA for approval. CMM appealed the Valle Ancho ruling to the Supreme Court. The CDE appealed to the Supreme Court in both cases and asserted in the Valle Ancho matter that the Environmental Tribunal erred by not ordering a complete shutdown of Maricunga’s groundwater wells. On January 7, 2022, the Supreme Court annulled the Tribunal’s rulings in both cases on procedural grounds and remanded the matters to the Tribunal for further proceedings. In parallel, in December 2020, CMM began discussions with the CDE to resolve the case through the filing of a reparation plan (“PdR”). The PdR is aimed at supporting the natural recovery that the wetlands have sustained since pumping stopped, as well as implementing other supplemental value enhancement actions in the basin. The cases before the Tribunal are currently stayed pending ongoing settlement discussions.

 

Kettle River-Buckhorn regulatory proceedings

 

Crown Resources Corporation (“Crown”) is the holder of a waste discharge permit (the “Permit”) in respect of the Buckhorn Mine, which authorizes and regulates mine-related discharges from the mine and its water treatment plant. On February 27, 2014, the Washington Department of Ecology (the “WDOE”) renewed Buckhorn Mine’s National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Permit (the “Renewed Permit”), with an effective date of March 1, 2014. The Renewed Permit contained conditions that were more restrictive than the original discharge permit. In addition, Crown felt that the Renewed Permit was internally inconsistent, technically unworkable and inconsistent with existing agreements in place with the WDOE, including a settlement agreement previously entered into by Crown and the WDOE in June 2013 (the “Settlement Agreement”). On February 28, 2014, Crown filed an appeal of the Renewed Permit with the Washington Pollution Control Hearings Board (“PCHB”). In addition, on January 15, 2015, Crown filed a lawsuit against the WDOE in Ferry County Superior Court, Washington, claiming that the WDOE breached the Settlement Agreement by including various unworkable compliance terms in the Renewed Permit (the “Crown Action”). On July 30, 2015, the PCHB upheld the Renewed Permit. Crown filed a Petition for Review in Ferry County Superior Court, Washington, on August 27, 2015, seeking to have the PCHB decision overturned. On March 13, 2017, the Ferry County Superior Court upheld the PCHB’s decision. On April 12, 2017, Crown appealed the Ferry County Superior Court’s ruling to the State of Washington Court of Appeals. On October 8, 2019, the Court of Appeals affirmed the Superior Court’s decision and the PCHB’s decision. On December 31, 2019, the Court of Appeals denied Crown’s Motion for Reconsideration and to Supplement the Record. Crown did not petition the Washington Supreme Court for review and, as a result, appeal of this matter has been exhausted.

 

On July 19, 2016, the WDOE issued an Administrative Order (“AO”) to Crown and Kinross Gold Corporation asserting that the companies had exceeded the discharge limits in the Renewed Permit a total of 931 times and has also failed to maintain the capture zone required under the Renewed Permit. The AO orders the companies to develop an action plan to capture and treat water escaping the capture zone, undertake various investigations and studies, revise its Adaptive Management Plan, and report findings by various deadlines in the fourth quarter 2016. The companies timely made the required submittals. On August 17, 2016, the companies filed an appeal of the AO with the PCHB (the “AO Appeal”). Because the AO Appeal raises many of the same issues that have been raised in the Appeal and Crown Action, the companies and the WDOE agreed to stay the AO Appeal indefinitely to allow these matters to be resolved. The PCHB granted the request for stay on August 26, 2016, which stay has been subsequently extended. On June 2, 2020, the PCHB dismissed the appeal based on a Joint Stipulation of Voluntary Dismissal filed by the parties. The basis for the dismissal was the exhaustion of appeals as to the Renewed Permit and Crown’s satisfaction of the AO.

 

On November 30, 2017, the WDOE issued a Notice of Violation (“NOV”) to Crown and Kinross asserting that the companies had exceeded the discharge limits in the Permit a total of 113 times during the third quarter of 2017 and also failed to maintain the capture zone as required under the Permit. The NOV ordered the companies to file a report with the WDOE identifying the steps which have been and are being taken to “control such waste or pollution or otherwise comply with this determination,” which report was timely filed. Following its review of this report, the WDOE may issue an AO or other directives to the Company.

 

Beginning in April 2018, the WDOE has issued a NOV to Crown and, on one occasion, also to Kinross, asserting that the companies had exceeded the discharge limits in the Permit and have failed to maintain the capture zone as required under the Permit. The most recent NOV, dated May 10, 2021, asserted 133 alleged violations had occurred in the first quarter of 2021. The NOVs order the companies to file a report with WDOE within 30 days identifying the steps which have been and are being taken to “control such waste or pollution or otherwise comply with this determination,” which reports have been timely filed. Following its review of these reports, WDOE may issue an AO or other directives to the Company. The NOVs are not immediately appealable, but any subsequent AO or other directive relating to the NOV may be appealed, as appropriate.

 

29

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

On April 10, 2020, the Okanogan Highlands Alliance (“OHA”) filed a citizen’s suit against Crown and Kinross Gold U.S.A., Inc. (“KGUSA”) under the Clean Water Act (“CWA”) for alleged failure to adequately capture and treat mine-impacted groundwater and surface water at the site in violation of the Permit and renewed Permit. The suit seeks injunctive relief and civil penalties in the amount of up to $55,800 per day per violation. Crown filed a counterclaim seeking an accounting of how OHA spent funds paid out under a prior settlement. OHA succeeded in obtaining a dismissal of this claim. Crown refiled the claim in state court where proceedings have been stayed by mutual agreement of the parties. On May 7, 2020, the Attorney General for the State of Washington filed suit against Crown and KGUSA under the CWA and the state Water Pollution Control Act alleging the same alleged permit violations and seeking similar relief as OHA. These lawsuits have been consolidated. On June 16, 2021, the Court granted the plaintiffs’ motion for partial summary judgment as to certain of Crown and KGUSA’s defenses. On July 9, 2021, Crown and KGUSA filed a motion for certification of this ruling for immediate appeal, which motion was denied on November 30, 2021. On October 18, 2022, the Court granted a stipulated motion finding Crown liable under the CWA for certain exceedances of the Permit. The Order provides that Crown maintains its right to appeal the Court’s June 16, 2021 order and to contest penalties for these Permit exceedances. On April 19, 2023, the Court stayed the action pending further order of the Court to enable the parties to pursue settlement through a court-ordered mediation which process continued until March 29, 2024, when OHA and the Attorney General advised the Court that they would like to discontinue the mediation process and requested that the Court lift the stay. Based thereon, the Court lifted the stay and entered a Scheduling Order. On September 19, 2024, Crown, KGUSA and OHA filed a Joint Motion for Entry of [Proposed] Consent Decree, which seeks Court approval of a proposed settlement of OHA’s claims in the lawsuit. On October 31, 2024, the Court entered the Consent Decree approving the settlement among KGUSA, Crown and OHA. Under the settlement, KGUSA and Crown paid a total of $5.4 million, inclusive of attorneys’ fees and payments towards supplemental environmental projects in the local area by conservation organizations. The State of Washington was not a party to this settlement. On November 22, 2024, KGUSA and Crown moved for judgment on the pleadings against the State of Washington, which motion was granted on February 4, 2025, and the State’s Amended Complaint was dismissed with prejudice.

 

Kinross Brasil Mineração S.A. (“KBM”)

 

On February 27, 2023, the State Public Attorney (“SPA”) in Brazil filed a civil action against KBM seeking, among other things, to compel KBM to cease depositing mine tailings into its two onsite tailings facilities (“TSFs”), decommission the TSFs and to obtain 100 million Brazilian Reals (approximately $20.0 million) from KBM to ensure money is available to address the requested relief. The SPA sought an immediate injunction to obtain this relief, which was denied by the Lower Court. In its ruling, the Lower Court found that the TSFs are properly permitted, regularly monitored and inspected, and that the SPA produced no evidence, technical or otherwise, that the TSFs are unsafe. The Lower Court further noted that a generalized concern about the size of the TSFs does not provide a legal basis for the relief sought. On March 17, 2023, the SPA filed an interlocutory appeal before the Appellate Court of the State of Minas Gerais challenging the Lower Court’s Decision. The interlocutory appeal was denied by the Appellate Court on March 27, 2023. Thereafter, proceedings were stayed at the request of the parties to allow them to discuss a potential resolution of the matter. KBM and the SPA recently reached a settlement. Under the settlement agreement, KBM agrees to: (i) confirm its timeline for de-characterization (closure) of the TSFs; (ii) hire a third-party expert for the SPA and other relevant authorities to keep them informed about KBM’s execution of the de-characterization projects and (iii) pay a total of approximately $7 million, to be paid in annual installments over a 10-year period to support socio-environmental projects. In the third quarter of 2024, a judge ratified the settlement agreement and this matter is now closed.

 

Manh Choh litigation

 

Kinross Gold Corporation is the beneficial owner of KG Mining (Alaska), Inc. (“KG Mining”). KG Mining is a 70% owner and managing member of Peak Gold, LLC (“Peak Gold”), which operates the Manh Choh mine near Tok, Alaska. Ore from the mine is to be trucked to Fort Knox for processing on public roadways in state-of-the-art trucks carrying legal loads. Certain owners of vacation homes along the ore haul route and others claiming potential impact have organized a group to oppose the ore haul plan and disrupt the project. These efforts have included administrative appeals of certain state mine permits unrelated to ore haul. To date, those appeals have been unsuccessful.

 

On October 20, 2023, the Committee for Safe Communities, an Alaskan non-profit corporation inclusive of this same group of objectors and formed for the purpose of opposing the project, filed suit in the Superior Court in Fairbanks, Alaska against the State of Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (“DOT”). The Complaint seeks injunctive relief against the DOT with respect to its oversight of Peak Gold’s ore haul plan. The Complaint alleges that the DOT has approved a haul route and trucking plan that violates DOT regulations, DOT’s actions have created an unreasonable risk to public safety constituting an attractive public nuisance, and DOT has aided and abetted the offense of negligent driving. On November 2, 2023, the plaintiff filed a motion for a preliminary injunction against the DOT and sought expedited consideration of its motion. If granted, the motion could impact Peak Gold’s ore haul plans. On November 9, 2023, the Court denied the plaintiff’s motion for expedited consideration. On November 15, 2023, the Court granted Peak Gold, LLC’s motion to intervene. On January 15, 2024, Peak Gold and DOT jointly moved for judgment on the pleadings and to stay all discovery. On May 14, 2024, the Court issued an Order denying the plaintiff’s motion for preliminary injunction and staying

 

30

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

discovery. On June 24, 2024, the Court issued an Order granting judgment on the pleadings as to three of the four claims for relief alleged in the Complaint and denying relief as to the claim for public nuisance. The Order further lifted the stay of discovery. On July 3, 2024, the DOT filed motion for reconsideration as to the Court’s Order on the motion for judgment on the pleadings, which Peak Gold joined. On September 13, 2024, the Court entered an Order denying this motion. The case is set for trial on August 11, 2025.

 

On July 1, 2024, the Village of Dot Lake, a federally recognized Indian Tribe, located approximately 50 miles from the Manh Choh mine on the ore haul route along the Alaska Highway (“Dot Lake”), filed a Complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska against U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (the “Corps”) and Lt. General Scott A. Spellmon, in his official capacity as Chief of Engineers and Commanding General of the Corps. The Complaint seeks declaratory and injunctive relief based on the Corps’ alleged failure to consult with Dot Lake and to undertake an adequate environmental review with respect to the Corps’ issuance in September 2022 of a wetlands disturbance permit in connection with the overall permitting of the Manh Choh mine as to approximately 5 acres of wetlands located on Tetlin Village land. Peak Gold is not named as a defendant in the Complaint and, on August 20, 2024, Peak Gold moved to intervene in the action, which Dot Lake has opposed. On October 10, 2024, the Court granted intervention to Peak Gold. On October 18, 2024, Peak Gold joined the partial motion to dismiss that the Corps filed on August 23, 2024, which motion remains pending.

 

7.SUMMARY OF QUARTERLY INFORMATION

 

   2024   2023 
(in millions, except per share amounts)  Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1   Q4   Q3   Q2   Q1 
Metal sales  $1,415.8   $1,432.0   $1,219.5   $1,081.5   $1,115.7   $1,102.4   $1,092.3   $929.3 
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders  $275.6   $355.3   $210.9   $107.0   $65.4   $109.7   $151.0   $90.2 
Basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders  $0.22   $0.29   $0.17   $0.09   $0.06   $0.09   $0.12   $0.07 
Net cash flow provided from operating activities  $734.5   $733.5   $604.0   $374.4   $410.9   $406.8   $528.6   $259.0 

 

The Company’s results over the past several quarters have been driven primarily by fluctuations in the gold price, input costs and changes in gold equivalent ounces sold. Fluctuations in the silver price and foreign exchange rates have also affected results.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2024, revenue was $1,415.8 million on sales of 531,729 total gold equivalent ounces compared to $1,115.7 million on sales of 565,389 total gold equivalent ounces during the fourth quarter of 2023. The average gold price realized in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $2,663 per ounce compared to $1,974 per ounce in the fourth quarter of 2023.

 

Production cost of sales in the fourth quarter of 2024 increased by 6% compared to the fourth quarter of 2023, due to higher royalties as a result of higher metal prices realized, and the production and sales mix, including higher production from Fort Knox, as well as lower production from Tasiast and Paracatu.

 

Depreciation, depletion and amortization varied between each of the above quarters largely due to changes in gold equivalent ounces sold and depreciable asset bases. In addition, changes in mineral reserves as well as impairment charges and reversals thereof during some of these periods affected depreciation, depletion and amortization for quarters in subsequent periods.

 

In the third quarter of 2024, the Company recorded an after-tax impairment reversal of $73.4 million, related to property, plant and equipment at Round Mountain. In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Company recorded an after-tax impairment charge of $35.8 million related to inventory at Fort Knox. The impairment reversal in 2024 was net of an income tax expense of $0.7 million while the impairment charge in 2023 was net of an income tax recovery of $3.1 million.

 

Net cash flow provided from operating activities increased to $734.5 million in the fourth quarter of 2024 from $410.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2023, primarily due to an increase in margins and favourable working capital movements.

 

31

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

8.DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES AND INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

Pursuant to regulations adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, under the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (“SOX”) and those of the Canadian Securities Administrators, Kinross' management evaluates the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures, and internal control over financial reporting. This evaluation is done under the supervision of, and with the participation of, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer.

 

As of the end of the period covered by this MD&A and the accompanying financial statements, Kinross’ management evaluated the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting. In making this assessment, management used the criteria specified in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that Kinross’ internal control over financial reporting was effective as at December 31, 2024.

 

During 2024, the Company completed the implementation of a new consolidation accounting system. The implementation of the new consolidation accounting system did not result in any material changes in internal controls during 2024. Management employed appropriate procedures to ensure internal controls were in place during and after the implementation.

 

Limitations of Controls and Procedures

 

Kinross’ management, including the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, believes that any disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting, no matter how well designed and operated, can have inherent limitations. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance that the objectives of the control system are met.

 

9.CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES, ESTIMATES AND ACCOUNTING CHANGES

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

Critical accounting policies and estimates are disclosed in Note 3 and 5, respectively, of the financial statements.

 

Accounting Changes

 

On January 1, 2024, the Company adopted amendments to IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements”, IFRS 16 “Leases” and IAS 7 “Statement of Cash Flows” as disclosed in Note 4 of the financial statements.

 

10.RISK ANALYSIS

 

The business of Kinross contains significant risk due to the nature of mining, exploration, and development activities. Certain risk factors, including but not limited to those listed below, are similar across the mining industry while others are specific to Kinross. The risk factors below may include details of how Kinross seeks to mitigate these risks where possible. For additional discussion of risk factors, please refer to the Company’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2023, which is available on the Company's website www.kinross.com and on www.sedarplus.ca or is available upon request from the Company, and to the Company’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, which will be filed on SEDAR+ on or about March 31, 2025.

 

Gold Price and Silver Price

 

The profitability of Kinross’ operations is significantly affected by changes in the market price of gold and silver. Gold and silver prices fluctuate on a daily basis and are affected by numerous factors beyond the control of Kinross. The price of gold and/or silver can be subject to volatile price movements and future significant price declines could cause continued commercial production to be uneconomical. Depending on the prices of gold and silver, cash flow from mining operations may not be sufficient to cover costs of production and capital expenditures. If, as a result of a decline in gold and/or silver prices, revenues from metal sales were to fall below cash operating costs, production may be discontinued. The factors that may affect the price of gold and silver include: industrial and jewelry demand; the level of demand for the metal as an investment; central bank demand, sales and purchases of the metal; speculative trading; and costs of and levels of global production by producers of the metal. Gold and silver prices may also be affected by macroeconomic factors, including: expectations of the future rate of inflation; the strength of, and confidence in, the U.S. dollar, the currency in which the price of the metal is generally quoted, and other currencies; interest rates; and global or regional political or economic uncertainties.

 

32

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation 

management’s discussion and analysis 

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

In 2024, the Company’s attributable average realized gold price increased to $2,391 per ounce from $1,945 per ounce in 2023. If the market price of gold and/or silver were to drop and the prices realized by Kinross on gold and/or silver sales were to decrease substantially and remain at such a level for any substantial period, Kinross’ profitability and cash flow would be negatively affected. In such circumstances, Kinross may determine that it is not economically feasible to continue commercial production at some or all of its operations or the development of some or all of its current projects, which could have an adverse impact on Kinross’ financial performance and results of operations, possibly materially. Kinross may curtail or suspend some or all of its exploration activities, with the result that depleted mineral reserves are not replaced. In addition, the market value of Kinross’ gold and/or silver inventory may be reduced and existing mineral reserves and resource estimates may be reduced to the extent that ore cannot be mined and processed economically at the prevailing prices.

 

Nature of Mineral Exploration and Mining

 

The exploration and development of mineral deposits involves significant financial and other risks over an extended period of time which may not be eliminated even with careful evaluation, experience and knowledge. While discovery of gold-bearing geological structures may result in substantial rewards, few properties explored are ultimately developed into producing mines. Major expenditures are required to establish reserves by drilling and to construct mining and processing facilities at a site. It is impossible to ensure that the current or proposed exploration programs on properties in which Kinross has an interest will result in profitable commercial mining operations.

 

The operations of Kinross are subject to the hazards and risks normally incidental to exploration, development and production activities of precious metals mining properties, any of which could result in damage to life or property, or environmental damage, and possible legal liability for such damage. The activities of Kinross may be subject to prolonged disruptions due to weather conditions depending on the location of operations in which it has interests. Hazards and risks, such as unusual or unexpected formations, faults and other geologic structures, rock bursts, pressures, cave-ins, flooding, pit wall instability or failures, heap leach failures, tailings dam failures, ground and slope failures or other conditions, may be encountered in the drilling, processing and removal of material, and could have an adverse impact on Kinross’ operations. While Kinross may obtain insurance against certain risks, potential claims could exceed policy limits or could be excluded from coverage. There are also risks against which Kinross cannot or may elect not to insure, such as where insurance cannot be obtained at a reasonable cost. The potential costs which could be associated with any liabilities not covered by insurance or in excess of insurance coverage or compliance with applicable laws and regulations may cause substantial delays and require significant capital outlays, adversely affecting the future earnings and competitive position of Kinross and, potentially, its financial viability.

 

Whether a mineral deposit will be commercially viable depends on a number of factors, some of which include the particular attributes of the deposit, such as its size and grade, costs and efficiency of the recovery methods that can be employed, proximity to infrastructure, access to water, financing costs and governmental regulations, including regulations relating to prices, taxes, permitting, royalties, infrastructure, land and water use, importing and exporting of gold and environmental protection. The effect of these factors cannot be accurately predicted, but the combination of these factors may result in Kinross not receiving an adequate return on its invested capital.

 

Mining, processing, development, and exploration activities depend, to one degree or another, on adequate infrastructure. Reliable roads, bridges, power sources, and water supply are important determinants which affect capital and operating costs. Lack of such infrastructure or unusual or infrequent weather phenomena, sabotage, war, terrorism, government, or other interference in the maintenance or provision of such infrastructure could adversely affect Kinross’ operations, financial condition, and results of operations.

 

Available insurance does not cover all the potential risks associated with a mining company’s operations. Kinross may also be unable to maintain insurance to cover insurable risks at economically feasible premiums, and insurance coverage may not be available in the future or may not be adequate to cover various resulting losses.

 

Moreover, insurance against risks such as the validity and ownership of unpatented mining claims and mill sites and environmental pollution or other hazards as a result of exploration and production may not be generally available to Kinross or to other companies in the mining industry on acceptable terms. Kinross might become subject to liability for environmental damage or other hazards for which it is completely or partially uninsured or for which it elects not to insure because of premium costs or other reasons. Losses from these events may cause Kinross to incur significant costs that could have a material adverse effect upon its financial condition and results of operations. Kinross reviews its insurance coverage at least annually to ensure that, where available, appropriate and cost-effective coverage is obtained.

 

33

 

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Environmental Impact and Related Regulatory Risk

 

Mining, like many other extractive natural resource industries, is subject to potential risks and liabilities associated with the effects on the environment resulting from mineral exploration and production. The Company may be held responsible for the costs of addressing contamination at, or arising from, current or former activities. Environmental liability may result from activities conducted by others prior to the ownership of a property by Kinross. In addition, Kinross may be liable to third parties for exposure to hazardous materials or substances, or may otherwise be involved in civil litigation related to environmental claims. The costs associated with such responsibilities and liabilities may be substantial. The payment of such liabilities would reduce funds otherwise available and could have a material adverse effect on Kinross. Should Kinross be unable to fully fund the cost of remedying an environmental problem, Kinross might be required to suspend operations or enter into interim compliance measures pending completion of the required remedy, which could have a material adverse effect on the operations and business of Kinross.

 

Kinross’ operations and exploration activities are subject to various laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment, exploration, development, production, imports/exports, taxes, labour standards, occupational health, waste disposal, toxic substances, mine closure, mine safety, public health and other matters. The legal and political circumstances outside of North America cause these risks to be different from, and in many cases, greater than, comparable risks associated with operations within North America. New laws and regulations, amendments to existing laws and regulations, interpretations by Governments, or more stringent enforcement of existing laws and regulations could have a material adverse impact on Kinross, increase costs, cause a reduction in levels of production and/or delay or prevent the development of new mining properties. Compliance with these laws and regulations is part of the business and requires significant expenditures. Changes in laws and regulations, interpretations or enforcement including those pertaining to taxes, the rights of leaseholders or the payment of royalties, net profit interest or similar obligations, could adversely affect Kinross’ operations or substantially increase the costs associated with those operations. Kinross is unable to predict what new legislation or revisions may be proposed that might affect its business or when any such proposals, if enacted, might become effective.

 

In light of tailings dam incidents in Brazil in 2015 and 2019, Brazilian lawmakers have passed and proposed further legislation aimed at addressing risks of future tailings dam failures. While there are a variety of measures under consideration, approved legislation at the federal and state level includes the increase of technical requirements relating to the granting of permits, increased financial assurance requirements, increased regulatory inspections, increased fines and penalties for environmental damages and requirements for companies to further address risks to residents and employees living and working downstream. State and federal laws and regulations could significantly increase the costs associated with Kinross’ operations.

 

Certain operations of the Company are the subject of ongoing regulatory review and evaluation by governmental authorities. These may result in additional regulatory actions against the affected operating subsidiaries, and may have an adverse effect on the Company’s future operations and/or financial condition. For further details refer to Section 6 - Other legal matters.

 

Reclamation Costs and Financial Assurance

 

The Company is required, or may be required in the future, to provide financial assurances covering reclamation costs, cleanup costs or other actual or potential liabilities arising out of its activities or ownership. These costs and liabilities may be significant and may exceed the provisions the Company has made in respect of these costs and liabilities. In some jurisdictions, bonds, letters of credit or other forms of financial assurance are required, or may be required in the future, as security for these costs and liabilities, such as the financial assurances required in Brazil under the tailings dam legislation. The amount and nature of financial assurance is dependent upon a number of factors, including the Company’s financial condition, cost estimates and thresholds set by applicable governments or legislation. Kinross may be required to replace or supplement existing financial assurances, or source new financial assurances with more expensive forms, which might include cash deposits, which would reduce its cash available for operating, investing and financing activities. There can be no guarantee that Kinross will be able to maintain or add to its current level of financial assurance or meet the requirements set by regulatory authorities in the future. These new requirements may include, but are not limited to, financial assurances intended to cover potential environmental cleanup costs or potential liabilities associated with the Company’s mine sites, including its tailings facilities and other infrastructure. To the extent that Kinross is or becomes unable to post and maintain sufficient financial assurance covering these requirements, it could potentially result in closure of one or more of the Company’s operations, which could have a material adverse effect on the financial condition of the Company. In such a case, Kinross would remain responsible for any reclamation costs, cleanup costs and other liabilities.

  

Kinross is generally required to submit for government approval a reclamation plan and to pay for the reclamation of its mine sites upon the completion of mining activities. Kinross estimates the net present value of future cash outflows for reclamation and remediation costs under IFRS at $948.6 million as at December 31, 2024 based on information available as of that date. Any significant increases over the current estimates of these costs could have a material adverse effect on Kinross.

 

34

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Internal Controls

 

Kinross has invested resources to document and assess its system of internal control over financial reporting and undertakes continuous evaluation of such internal controls. Internal control over financial reporting are procedures designed to provide reasonable assurance that transactions are properly authorized, assets are safeguarded against unauthorized or improper use, and transactions are properly recorded and reported. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance with respect to the reliability of financial reporting and financial statement preparation.

 

Kinross is required to satisfy the requirement of Section 404 of SOX, which requires an annual assessment by management of the effectiveness of Kinross’ internal control over financial reporting and an attestation report by Kinross’ independent auditors addressing the operating effectiveness of Kinross’ internal control over financial reporting.

 

If Kinross fails to maintain the adequacy of its internal control over financial reporting, as such standards are modified, supplemented, or amended from time to time, Kinross may not be able to ensure that it can conclude on an ongoing basis that it has effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of SOX. Kinross’ failure to satisfy SOX requirements on an ongoing, timely basis could result in the loss of investor confidence in the reliability of its financial statements, which in turn could harm Kinross’ business and negatively impact the trading price of its common shares. In addition, any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could harm Kinross’ operating results or cause it to fail to meet its reporting obligations.

 

Although Kinross is committed to ensure ongoing compliance, Kinross cannot be certain that it will be successful in complying with Section 404 of SOX.

 

Indebtedness and an Inability to Satisfy Repayment Obligations

 

Although Kinross has been successful in repaying debt historically, there can be no assurance that it can continue to do so. Kinross’ level of indebtedness could have important and potentially adverse consequences for its operations and the value of its common shares including: (a) limiting Kinross’ ability to borrow additional amounts for working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements, execution of Kinross’ growth strategy or other purposes; (b) limiting Kinross’ ability to use operating cash flow in other areas because of its obligations to service debt; (c) increasing Kinross’ vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions, including increases in interest rates and reductions in the market price of gold and/or silver; (d) limiting Kinross’ ability to capitalize on business opportunities and to react to competitive pressures and adverse changes in government regulation; and (e) limiting Kinross’ ability or increasing the costs to refinance indebtedness.

 

Kinross expects to obtain the funds to pay its expenditures and to pay principal and interest on its debt by utilizing cash flow from operations. Kinross’ ability to meet these payment obligations will depend on its future financial performance, which will be affected by financial, business, economic, legal and other factors. Kinross will not be able to control many of these factors, such as economic conditions in the markets in which it operates. Kinross cannot be certain that its future cash flows from operations will be sufficient to allow it to pay principal and interest on Kinross’ debt and meet its other obligations. If cash flows from operations are insufficient or if there is a contravention of its debt covenant(s), Kinross may be required to refinance all or part of its existing debt, sell assets, borrow more money or issue additional equity. There can be no assurance that Kinross will be able to refinance all or part of its existing debt on terms that are commercially reasonable.

 

Mineral Reserve and Mineral Resource Estimates

  

The figures for mineral reserves and mineral resources presented herein are estimates, and no assurance can be given that the anticipated tonnages and grades will be achieved or that the indicated level of recovery will be realized. Such estimates are, in large part, based on interpretations of geological data obtained from drill holes and other sampling techniques. Actual mineralization or formations may be different from those predicted. It may also take many years from the initial phase of drilling before production is possible, and during that time the economic feasibility of exploiting a deposit may change. Reserve and resource estimates are materially dependent on prevailing gold and silver prices and price assumptions used in those estimates, and the cost of recovering and processing minerals at the individual mine sites. Market fluctuations in metal prices may render the mining of mineral reserves and mineral resources uneconomical and require Kinross to take a write-down of an asset or to discontinue development or production. Moreover, short-term operating factors relating to the mineral reserves, such as the need for orderly development of the ore body or the processing of new or different ore grades, may cause a mining operation to be unprofitable in any particular accounting period.

 

35

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Proven and probable mineral reserves at Kinross’ mines and development projects were estimated as of December 31, 2024, based upon an assumed gold price of $1,600 per ounce.

 

Prolonged declines in the market price of gold below the above noted level or in silver may render mineral reserves containing relatively lower grades of gold and/or silver mineralization uneconomic to exploit and could materially reduce Kinross’ mineral reserve estimates. In addition, changes in legislation, permitting or title over land or mineral interests may result in mineral reserves or mineral resources being reclassified or ceasing to meet the definition of mineral reserve or mineral resource. Should such events occur, material write-downs of Kinross’ investments in mining properties or the discontinuation of development or production might be required, and there could be material delays in the development of new projects, reduced income or increased losses and reduced cash flow. There is no assurance that Kinross will achieve indicated levels of gold or silver recovery or obtain the prices assumed in determining the mineral reserves.

 

Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. Due to the uncertainty of measured, indicated or inferred mineral resources, these mineral resources may never be upgraded to proven and probable mineral reserves. Kinross’s mineral reserve and resource estimates have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of Canadian securities laws, which differ from the requirements of United States’ securities laws and other jurisdictions.

 

There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating proven and probable mineral reserves. The estimates in this document are based on various assumptions relating to metal prices and exchange rates during the expected life of production, mineralization of the area to be mined, the projected cost of mining and the results of additional planned development work. Actual future production rates and amounts, revenues, taxes, operating expenses, environmental and regulatory compliance expenditures, development expenditures and recovery rates may vary substantially from those assumed in the estimates. Any significant change in these assumptions, including changes that result from variances between projected and actual results, could result in a material downward or upward revision of current estimates.

 

Development Projects

 

Kinross must continually replace and expand its mineral reserves in order to maintain or grow its total mineral reserve base as they are depleted by production at its operations. Similarly, the Company’s ability to increase or maintain present gold and silver production levels is dependent in part on the successful development of new mines and/or expansion of existing mining operations. Kinross is dependent on future growth from development projects. Development projects rely on the accuracy of predicted factors including: capital and operating costs; metallurgical recoveries; mineral reserve estimates; and future metal prices. Once a site with mineralization is discovered, it may take several years from the initial phases of drilling until production is possible. Development projects are subject to accurate feasibility studies, the acquisition of surface or land rights and the issuance of necessary governmental permits and approvals. Unforeseen circumstances, including those related to the amount and nature of the mineralization at the development site, technological impediments to extraction and processing, legal requirements, governmental intervention, infrastructure limitations, environmental issues, disputes with local communities or other events, could result in one or more of our planned developments becoming impractical or uneconomic. Any such occurrence could have an adverse impact on Kinross’ financial condition and results of operations.

 

In addition, as a result of the substantial expenditures involved, development projects are at significant risk of material cost overruns versus budget. The capital expenditures and time required to develop new mines are considerable and changes in cost or construction schedules can significantly increase both the time and capital required to build the project. The project development schedules are also dependent on obtaining the governmental permits and approvals necessary for the operation of a project. The timeline to obtain these permits and approvals and meet permit requirements, are often beyond the control of Kinross. It is not unusual in the mining industry for new mining operations to experience unexpected problems during the start-up phase, resulting in delays and requiring more capital than anticipated.

  

Production and Cost Estimates

 

The Company prepares estimates of future production, operating costs and capital costs for its operations. Despite the Company’s best efforts to budget and estimate such costs, as a result of the substantial expenditures involved in the development of mineral projects and the fluctuation and increase of costs over time, development projects may be prone to material cost overruns. Kinross’ actual production and costs may vary from estimates for a variety of reasons, including: increased competition for resources and development inputs; cost inflation affecting the mining industry in general; actual ore mined varying from estimates of grade, tonnage, dilution and metallurgical and other characteristics; a lower than expected recovery rate; short term operating factors including relating to the ore mineral reserves, such as the need for sequential development of ore bodies and the processing of new or different ore grades; revisions to mine plans; difficulties with supply chain management, including the implementation and management of enterprise resource planning software; risks and hazards associated with development, mining and processing; natural phenomena,

 

36

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

such as inclement weather conditions, tariffs and trade disputes between countries, water availability (such as in Chile), floods, fires, earthquakes, and pandemics; and unexpected labour shortages, strikes or other disruptions. Costs of production may also be affected by a variety of factors, including: ore grade, ore hardness, metallurgy, changing waste-to-ore ratios, labour costs, cost of services, commodities (such as power and fuel) and other inputs, general inflationary pressures and currency exchange rates. Many of these factors are beyond Kinross’ control. No assurance can be given that Kinross’ cost estimates will be achieved. Failure to achieve production or cost estimates or material increases in costs could have an adverse impact on Kinross’ future cash flows, profitability, results of operations and financial condition.

 

Shortages and Price Volatility of Input Commodities, Services and Other Inputs

 

The Company is dependent on various input commodities (such as fuel, explosives, electricity, natural gas, steel, concrete and cyanide), labour, and equipment (including parts) to conduct its mining operations and development projects. A shortage of, or inability to procure, such input commodities, labour, or equipment or a significant increase in their costs could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s ability to carry out its operations and therefore limit, or increase the cost of, production. The Company is also dependent on access to and supply of water and electricity to carry out its mining operations, and such access and supply may not be readily available, especially at the Company’s operations in Chile and Brazil. Market prices of input commodities can be subject to inflation, new taxes or tariffs and volatile price movements which can be material, occur over short periods of time and are affected by factors that are beyond the Company’s control. An increase in the cost, or decrease in the availability, of input commodities, labour, or equipment due to factors beyond the Company’s control such as conflicts, a pandemic or a similar public health threat, may affect the timely conduct and cost of Kinross’ operations and development projects. If the costs of certain input commodities consumed or otherwise used in connection with Kinross’ operations and development projects were to increase significantly, and remain at such levels for a substantial period, the Company may determine that it is not economically feasible to continue commercial production at some or all of its operations or the development of some or all of its current projects, which could have an adverse impact on the Company’s financial performance and results of operations. From time to time, Kinross transacts in energy hedging to reduce the risk associated with fuel price increases.

 

Uncertainty in Mauritania

 

Kinross is subject to political, economic and security risks which, should they materialize, may adversely affect the Company’s ability to operate its Tasiast mine in Mauritania. These risks include but are not limited to the following: (1) the potential that the government may attempt to renegotiate current mining conventions, revoke existing stability provisions in those conventions or breach those conventions; (2) political instability; (3) the security situation in the country may deteriorate; (4) a lack of transparency in the operation of the government and development of new laws; (5) the potential for laws and regulations to be changed or inconsistently applied; (6) disputes under the application of the mining convention; (7) potential legal and practical difficulties with enforcement of the mining convention or relating to the definitive agreement entered into by the Company and the Government of Mauritania on July 15, 2021; (8) application of tax laws including potential re-assessments of historical tax filings; and (9) the potential for the government to seek increased economic benefits from the Company’s operations. These issues include, but are not limited to, the long-term stability in the Company’s relationship with the workers’ union, the application of a clear, comprehensive, legally certain and enforceable VAT exemption for the mining industry, labour force management and flexible labour practices and the timely issuance of work permits for the non-national workforce. There can be no assurance that disputes will not arise between the parties including disputes with respect to the matters addressed by the definitive agreement, or the Company’s mining convention.

  

U.S. Environmental Liability Risk

 

In the United States, certain mining wastes from extraction and processing of ores that would otherwise be considered hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (“RCRA”) and state law equivalents, are currently exempt from certain U.S. Environmental Protection Agency regulations governing hazardous waste. If mine wastes from the Company’s U.S. mining operations are not exempt, and are treated as hazardous waste under the RCRA, material expenditures could be required for waste management and/or the construction of additional waste disposal facilities. In addition, the Company’s activities and ownership interests potentially expose the Company to liability under Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”) and its state law equivalents. Under CERCLA and its state law equivalents, subject to certain defenses, any present or past owners or operators of a facility, and any parties that disposed or arranged for the disposal of hazardous substances at such a facility, could be held jointly and severally liable for cleanup costs and may be forced to undertake remedial cleanup actions or to pay for the cleanup efforts in response to unpermitted releases of hazardous substances. Such parties may also be liable to governmental entities for the cost of damages to natural resources, which may be substantial. Additional regulations or requirements may also be imposed upon the Company’s operations, tailings, and waste disposal areas as well as upon mine closure under federal and state environmental laws and regulations, including, without limitation, the U.S. Clean Water Act and state law equivalents. Air emissions in the U.S. are subject

 

37

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

to the Clean Air Act and its state equivalents as well. Additionally, the Company is subject to other federal and state environmental laws, and potential claims existing under common law, relating to the operation and closure of the Company’s U.S. mine sites.

 

Political, Security, Legal and Economic Risk

 

The Company has mining and exploration operations in various regions of the world, including the United States, Brazil, Chile, Mauritania, Canada and Finland and such operations are exposed to various levels of political, security, legal, economic, health and safety and other risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties vary from country to country and include, but are not limited to: war; military conflicts, terrorism; hostage taking; crime, including organized criminal enterprise; thefts, armed robberies and illegal incursions on property (as may occur at Paracatu and Tasiast from time to time) which could result in serious security and operational issues, including the endangerment of life and property; criminal or regulatory investigations, extreme fluctuations in currency exchange rates; high rates of inflation; labour unrest; the risks of civil unrest; unstable governments or political systems; expropriation and nationalization; renegotiation or nullification of existing concessions, conventions, licenses, permits and contracts (including work permits for non-nationals at Tasiast); illegal mining (including at Tasiast) could result in serious environmental, social, political, security and operational issues, including the endangerment of life and property; adequacy, response and training of local law enforcement; political regime change or instability; changes to policies and regulations impacting the mining sector; restrictions on foreign exchange and repatriation of funds; restrictions on the movement of personnel or importation of goods and equipment, global health crises or pandemics; and changing political conditions, currency controls, and governmental regulations that favour or require the awarding of contracts to local contractors or require foreign contractors to employ citizens of, or purchase supplies from, a particular jurisdiction.

 

Changes in political leadership or other future political and economic conditions in these countries may result in these governments adopting different policies with respect to foreign investment, taxation, development and ownership of mineral resources and the legality of mining generally. Any changes in such policies may result in changes in laws affecting ownership of assets, the ability to operate, foreign investment, mining exploration and development, taxation (including value added and withholding taxes), royalties, currency exchange rates, gold sales, environmental protection, labour relations, price controls, repatriation of income, and return of capital, which may have a material adverse affect on the financial performance of the Company. Such changes may also affect both the ability of Kinross to undertake exploration and development activities in respect of future properties in the manner currently contemplated, as well as its ability to continue to explore, develop, and operate those properties to which it has rights relating to exploration, development, and operation. Future governments in these countries may adopt substantially different policies from those currently in effect, which might extend to, as an example, expropriation or nationalization of assets.

 

The tax regimes in these countries may be subject to differing interpretations or levels of enforcement and are subject to change from time to time. Kinross’ interpretation of taxation law as applied to its transactions and activities may not coincide with that of the tax authorities in a given country. As a result, transactions may be challenged by tax authorities and Kinross’ operations may be assessed, which could result in significant additional taxes, penalties and interest. In addition, in certain jurisdictions (such as Brazil and Mauritania) Kinross may be required to pay refundable VAT on certain purchases. There can be no assurance that the Company will be able to collect all, or part, of the amount of VAT refunds which are owed to the Company.

 

Governmental efforts to increase revenue from taxes and royalties have escalated in recent years. There can be no assurance that current government royalty and mining tax rates will remain static in future periods. The increasing intensity of government efforts to increase revenues may result in future audits, tax reassessment and claims for increased payments of royalties, income tax, withholding taxes or additional forms of revenue. The results of such audits or reassessments may result in claims, fines or penalties that are material to the Company.

 

Anti-bribery Legislation

 

The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (United States) and the Corruption of Foreign Public Officials Act (Canada), and similar anti-bribery legislation prohibit companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments for the purpose of obtaining or retaining business or other commercial advantage. Company policies mandate strict compliance with applicable anti-bribery legislation. Kinross operates in jurisdictions that have experienced governmental and private sector corruption to some degree. There can be no assurance that Kinross’ internal control and compliance policies and procedures will always protect it from reckless or other inappropriate acts committed by the Company’s affiliates, employees or agents. Allegations of any violations of anti-bribery legislation may result in costly and time-consuming investigations. Violations of such legislation could result in fines or penalties and have a material adverse effect on Kinross’ reputation and social license to operate.

 

38

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Licenses and Permits

 

The development projects and operations of Kinross require licenses and permits from various governmental authorities. However, such licenses and permits are subject to challenge and change in various circumstances. Applicable governmental authorities may revoke or refuse to issue, amend or renew necessary permits. The authorities may also require a more rigorous and time-consuming assessment of a requested permit than anticipated in the form of an Environmental Impact Statement. The loss of such permits, the requirements of such permits, third-party challenges to such permits, delays in the permitting process or the inability to obtain such permits may hinder or delay Kinross’ ability to operate and could have a material effect on Kinross’ financial performance, project timelines and results of operations. There can be no guarantee that Kinross will be able to obtain or maintain or comply with all necessary licenses and permits that may be required to explore and develop its properties, commence construction of or operation of mining facilities, or to maintain continued operations that economically justify the cost. Kinross endeavors to be in compliance with these licenses and permits, and underlying laws and regulations, at all times.

 

Title to Properties, Community Relations and Indigenous Groups

 

The validity of mining rights, including mining claims which constitute most of Kinross’ property holdings, may, in certain cases, be uncertain and subject to being contested. Kinross’ mining rights, claims and other land titles, particularly title to undeveloped properties, may be defective and open to being challenged by governmental authorities, local communities and other third parties.

 

Certain of Kinross’ United States mineral rights consist of unpatented mining claims. Unpatented mining claims present unique title risks due to the rules for validity and the opportunities for third-party challenge. These rights may also be impacted by changes in applicable laws and regulations relating to mining claims in the United States.

 

Certain of Kinross’ mining properties are subject to various royalty and land payment agreements. Failure by Kinross to meet its payment obligations under these agreements could result in the loss of related property interests.

 

Certain of Kinross’ properties may be subject to the rights or the asserted rights of various community stakeholders, including Indigenous people. The assertion of such rights may trigger various international and national laws, codes, resolutions, conventions, guidelines, or impose obligations on governments and the Company to respect the rights of Indigenous people. These obligations may, among other things, require the government or the Company to consult, or enter into agreements, with communities near the Company’s mines, development projects or exploration activities regarding actions affecting local stakeholders, prior to granting the Company mining rights, permits, approvals or other authorizations.

 

Consultation and other rights of First Nations or other Indigenous peoples may require accommodation including undertakings regarding employment, revenue sharing, procurement, other financial payments and other matters. This may affect the Company’s ability to acquire effective mineral title, permits or licences in these jurisdictions, including in some parts of Canada, in which title or other rights are claimed by First Nations and other Indigenous peoples, and may affect the timetable and costs of development and operation of mineral properties in these jurisdictions.

  

There is an increasing level of public concern relating to the perceived effect of mining activities on Indigenous communities. The evolving expectations related to human rights, Indigenous rights and environmental protection may result in opposition to the Company’s current or future activities. Such opposition may be directed through legal or administrative proceedings, against the government and/or the Company, or expressed in manifestations such as protests, delayed or protracted consultations, blockades or other forms of public expression against the Company’s activities or against the government’s position. There can be no assurance that these relationships can be successfully managed. Intervention by the aforementioned groups may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s reputation, results of operations and financial performance.

 

Competition

 

The mineral exploration and mining business is competitive in all of its phases. In the search for and the acquisition of attractive mineral properties, Kinross competes with numerous other companies and individuals, including competitors with greater financial, technical and other resources than Kinross. The ability of the Company to operate successfully in the future will depend not only on its ability to develop its present properties, but also on its ability to select and acquire suitable new producing properties or prospects for mineral exploration. Kinross may be unable to compete successfully with its competitors in acquiring such properties or prospects on terms it considers acceptable, if at all.

 

39

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Disclosures about Market Risks

 

To determine its market risk sensitivities, Kinross uses an internally generated financial forecast model that is sensitized to, among other things, various gold prices, currency exchange rates, interest rates and energy prices. The variable with the greatest impact is the gold price, and Kinross prepares a base case scenario and then sensitizes it by a 10% increase and decrease in the gold price. For 2025, sensitivity to a 10% change in the gold price is estimated to have an approximate $475 million impact on pre-tax earnings. Kinross’ financial forecast covers the projected life of its mines. In each year, gold is produced according to the mine plan. Additionally, for 2025, sensitivity to a 10% change in the silver price is estimated to have an approximate $13 million impact on pre-tax earnings. Costs are estimated based on current production costs plus the impact of any major changes to the operation during its life.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk

 

Currency fluctuations may affect the revenues which the Company will realize from its operations since gold and silver are sold in U.S. dollars. Kinross’ costs are incurred principally in Canadian dollars, U.S. dollars, Chilean pesos, Brazilian reais and Mauritanian ouguiyas. The appreciation of non-U.S. dollar currencies against the U.S. dollar increases the cost of production and capital expenditures in U.S. dollar terms. Kinross’ costs are positively affected when the U.S. dollar strengthens against these foreign currencies and are adversely affected when the U.S. dollar weakens against these foreign currencies. Where possible, Kinross’ cash and cash equivalents balances are primarily held in U.S. dollars. From time to time, Kinross transacts currency hedging to reduce the risk associated with currency fluctuations. While the Chilean peso and Brazilian real are currently convertible into Canadian and U.S. dollars, they may not always be convertible in the future. The Mauritanian ouguiya is convertible into Canadian and U.S. dollars, but conversion may be subject to regulatory and/or central bank approval.

 

The sensitivity of the Company’s pre-tax earnings to changes in foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar is disclosed in Section 3 – Outlook of this MD&A and Note 9 of the Company’s financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024.

 

Litigation Risk

 

Legal proceedings may be brought against Kinross, for example, litigation based on its business activities, environmental laws, tax matters, volatility in its stock price or failure to comply with its disclosure obligations, which could have a material adverse effect on Kinross’ financial condition or prospects. Regulatory and government agencies may bring legal proceedings in connection with the enforcement of applicable laws and regulations, and as a result Kinross may be subject to expenses of investigations and defense, fines or penalties for violations if proven, and potentially costs and expenses to remediate, increased operating costs or changes to operations, and cessation of operations if ordered to do so or required in order to resolve such proceedings. The Company may become party to disputes governed by the rules of international arbitration. Kinross may also be the subject of legal claims in Canada in respect of its activities in a foreign jurisdiction. In the event of a dispute arising at Kinross’ foreign operations, Kinross may be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of foreign courts or may not be successful in subjecting foreign persons to the jurisdiction of courts in Canada. Kinross’ inability to enforce its rights or being found in contravention of any applicable laws and regulations could have an adverse effect on its future cash flows, earnings, results of operations and financial condition.

  

Counterparty and Liquidity Risk

 

Credit risk relates to cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and derivative contracts and arises from the possibility that a counterparty to an instrument fails to perform. Counterparty risk is the risk that a third party might fail to fulfill its performance obligations under the terms of a financial instrument. The Company is subject to counterparty risk and may be affected, in the event that a counterparty becomes insolvent. To manage both counterparty and credit risk, the Company proactively manages its exposure to individual counterparties. The Company only transacts with highly-rated counterparties. A limit on contingent exposure has been established for each counterparty based on the counterparty’s credit rating, and the Company monitors the financial condition of each counterparty.

 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company may not have sufficient cash resources available to meet its payment obligations. To manage liquidity risk, the Company maintains cash positions and has financing in place that the Company expects will be sufficient to meet its operating and capital expenditure requirements. Potential sources for liquidity could include, but are not limited to: the Company’s current cash position, existing credit facilities, future operating cash flow, and potential private and public financing. Additionally, the Company reviews its short-term operational forecasts regularly and long-term budgets to determine its cash requirements.

 

40

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Credit Ratings and Debt Markets

 

The mining, processing, development, and exploration of Kinross’ properties, as well as the acquisition of gold-bearing properties, may require substantial additional financing. Failure to obtain sufficient financing may result in the delay or indefinite postponement of exploration, development or production on any or all of Kinross’ properties, or even a loss of property interest. Additional capital or other types of financing may not be available if needed or, if available, the terms of such financing may be unfavourable to Kinross.

 

The Company’s ability to access investment grade debt markets and the related cost of debt financing is dependent upon maintaining investment grade credit ratings. The Company has investment grade credit ratings from Fitch Ratings, Moody’s and S&P. There is no assurance that these credit ratings will remain in effect for any given period of time or that such ratings will not be revised or withdrawn entirely by the rating agencies. Real or anticipated changes in credit ratings can affect the price of the Company’s existing debt as well as the Company’s ability to access the capital markets and the cost of such debt financing.

 

If the Company is unable to maintain its indebtedness and financial ratios at levels acceptable to the rating agencies, or should the Company’s business prospects deteriorate, the credit ratings currently assigned to the Company by the rating agencies could be downgraded, which could adversely affect the value of the Company’s outstanding securities and existing debt, its ability to obtain new financing on favourable terms, and increase the Company’s borrowing costs.

 

Acquisition and Disposition Strategy Risks and Potential for Incurring Unexpected Costs or Liabilities as a Result of Acquisitions

 

As part of Kinross’ business strategy, it has sought, and may continue to seek, to acquire new mining and development opportunities in the mining industry, along with assets to support its business operations or dispose of assets it currently owns. Any acquisition or disposition that Kinross may choose to complete which may be of a significant size, may change the scale of Kinross’ business and operations, and may expose Kinross to new geographical, political, operational, financial and geological risks. Kinross’ acquisition success depends on its ability to identify appropriate acquisition candidates, negotiate acceptable arrangements, including arrangements to finance acquisitions, and to integrate the acquired businesses and their personnel. Kinross may be unable to complete any acquisition, disposition or other business arrangement that it pursues on favourable terms. Any acquisitions, dispositions or other business arrangements completed may not ultimately benefit Kinross’ business and could impair its results of operations, profitability and financial results. Acquisitions, dispositions and other business arrangements are accompanied by risks including, without limitation: a significant change in commodity prices after Kinross has committed to complete the transaction and established the purchase price or exchange ratio; an acquired material ore body may prove to be below expectations; Kinross may have difficulty integrating and assimilating the operations, technologies and personnel of any acquired companies, realizing anticipated synergies and maximizing the financial and strategic position of the combined enterprise, and maintaining uniform standards, policies and controls across the organization to support the expansion of Kinross’ operations resulting from these acquisitions; the integration of the acquired business or assets or sales process may divert management’s attention and disrupt Kinross’ ongoing business and its relationships with employees, customers, suppliers and contractors; the acquired business or assets may have unknown liabilities which may be significant; a purchaser may be unable to pay all or part of any purchase price due after closing; and Kinross may become subject to litigation, which could result in substantial costs and damages and divert management’s attention and resources. Additionally, although the Company conducts due diligence in connection with acquisitions, risks remain regarding any undisclosed or unknown liabilities associated with any such acquisitions, and the Company may discover that it has acquired substantial undisclosed liabilities. The Company may have little recourse against the seller or purchaser if any of the representations or warranties provided in connection with an acquisition or disposition proves to be inaccurate or if the purchaser is unable to pay all or part of the purchase price due after closing. Should these or other risks develop, Kinross may suffer significant financial losses or be required to write-down the value of the assets acquired (see Risk Analysis related to impairment, below).

  

In addition, in the event that Kinross chooses to raise debt capital to finance any such acquisition, Kinross’ leverage will be increased. If Kinross chooses to use equity as consideration for such acquisition, existing shareholders may suffer dilution. Alternatively, Kinross may choose to finance any such acquisition with its existing resources.

 

There can be no assurance that Kinross would be successful in overcoming these risks or any other problems encountered in connection with such acquisitions or dispositions.

 

41

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Global Financial Condition

 

The volatility and challenges that global economies continue to experience affect the profitability and liquidity of businesses in many industries, which in turn has resulted in the following conditions that may have an effect on the profitability and cash flows of the Company:

 

·Volatility in commodity prices, foreign exchange rates and interest rates;

 

·Tightening of credit markets;

 

·Counterparty risk; and

 

·Volatility in the prices of publicly traded entities.

 

The volatility in commodity prices, foreign exchange rates and interest rates directly impact the Company’s revenues, earnings and cash flows, as noted above in the sections titled “Gold Price and Silver Price” and “Foreign Currency Exchange Risk”.

 

Although tighter credit markets could restrict the ability of certain companies to access capital, to date this has not affected the Company’s liquidity.

 

As at December 31, 2024, the Company had $1,645.9 million available under its credit facility arrangements. However, tightening of credit markets may affect the ability of the Company to obtain equity or debt financing in the future on terms favourable to the Company.

 

The Company has not experienced any difficulties to date relating to the counterparties it transacts with. The counterparties continue to be highly rated, and as noted above, the Company has employed measures to reduce the impact of counterparty risk.

 

Continued volatility in equity markets may affect the value of publicly listed companies in Kinross’ equity portfolio.

 

Market Price Risk

 

Kinross’ common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) and the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”). The price of Kinross’ common shares is likely to be significantly affected by changes in the gold price or in its financial condition or results of operations as reflected in its quarterly earnings reports or forward-looking information included in the Company’s outlook. Other factors unrelated to the performance of Kinross that may have an effect on the price of the Kinross common shares include the following: a material reduction in analytical coverage of Kinross by investment banks with research capabilities; increased political risk or actions by governments in countries where the Company operates; a drop in trading volume and general market interest in the securities of Kinross may adversely affect an investor’s ability to liquidate an investment and consequently an investor’s interest in acquiring a significant stake in Kinross; a failure of Kinross to meet the reporting and other obligations under Canadian and U.S. securities laws or imposed by the exchanges could result in a delisting of the Kinross common shares; and a substantial decline in the price of the Kinross common shares that persists for a significant period of time could cause the Kinross common shares to be delisted from the TSX or NYSE further reducing market liquidity.

 

As a result of any of these factors, the market price of Kinross’ common shares at any given point in time may not accurately reflect Kinross’ long-term value. Securities class action litigation has been commenced against companies, including Kinross, following periods of volatility or significant decline in the market price of their securities. Securities litigation could result in substantial costs and damages and divert management’s attention and resources. Any decision resulting from any such litigation that is adverse to the Company could have a negative impact on the Company’s financial position.

  

Impairment

 

The carrying value of property, plant and equipment is reviewed at each reporting period end to determine whether there is any indication of impairment or reversal of impairment. If any such indication exists, then the cash generating unit (“CGU”) or asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. If the carrying amount of the CGU or asset exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment is considered to exist and an impairment loss is recognized to reduce the CGU or asset’s carrying value to its recoverable amount. For property, plant and equipment and other long-lived assets, a previously recognized impairment loss is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognized. The recoverable amounts, or fair values, of the Company’s CGUs are based, in part, on certain factors that may be partially or totally outside of Kinross’ control. Kinross’ fair value estimates are based on numerous assumptions, some of which may be subjective, and it is possible that actual fair value could be significantly different than those estimates.

 

42

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Climate Risks

 

A number of governments or governmental bodies have introduced or are contemplating regulatory changes in response to the potential impacts of climate change. Where legislation already exists, regulation relating to emission levels and energy efficiency is becoming more stringent. Future changes in legislation and regulation will likely increase the Company’s compliance costs and may have an adverse effect on the Company’s reputation if it is unsuccessful in complying with such requirements.

 

In addition, the physical risks of climate change may also have an adverse effect at some of Kinross’ operations. These may include extreme weather events, changes in rainfall patterns, water shortages, and changing temperatures. These physical impacts could require the Company to curtail or close mining production and could prevent the Company from pursuing expansion opportunities. These effects may adversely impact the cost, production and financial performance of the Company’s operations.

 

Operations at Paracatu are dependent on rainfall and river water capture as the primary source of process water, which is then complemented by groundwater from boreholes. During the rainy season, the mine channels surface runoff water to temporary storage ponds from where it is pumped to the process plants. Similarly, surface runoff and rain water and water captured from the river is stored in the tailings impoundment, which constitutes the main water reservoir for the process plants. The objective is to capture and store as much water as possible during the rainy season to ensure adequate water supply during the dry season.

 

Accordingly, prolonged periods without adequate rainfall may adversely impact the Company’s operations. As a result, production may fall below historic or forecast levels and Kinross may incur significant costs or experience significant delays that could have a material effect on Kinross’ financial performance, liquidity and results of operations.

 

Excessive rainfall, snowfall, flooding or extreme weather events caused by increased variation in weather patterns, may also adversely affect operations. Excess rainfall can result in operational difficulties including geotechnical instability, increased dewatering demands, and additional water management requirements. Extended periods of above average rainfall at a site may result in increased costs or production disruptions that could have a material effect on Kinross’ financial performance, liquidity and results of operations.

 

We can provide no assurance that efforts to mitigate the risks of climate changes will be effective and that the physical risks of climate change will not have an adverse effect on the Company’s operations and profitability.

 

Human Resources

 

Production at Kinross’ mines is dependent upon the efforts of, and maintaining good relationships with, employees of Kinross. Relations between Kinross and its employees may be impacted by changes in labour relations which may be introduced by, among others, employee groups, unions, and the relevant governmental authorities in whose jurisdictions Kinross carries on business. Adverse changes in such legislation or in the relationship between Kinross and its employees may have a material adverse effect on Kinross’ business, results of operations, and financial condition.

 

In order to operate successfully, Kinross must find and retain qualified employees. Kinross and other companies in the mining industry compete for personnel and Kinross is not always able to fill positions in a timely manner. One factor that has contributed to an increased turnover rate is the aging workforce and it is expected that this factor will further increase the turnover rate in upcoming years. If Kinross is unable to attract and retain qualified personnel or fails to establish adequate succession planning strategies, Kinross’ operations could be adversely affected.

  

In addition, Kinross has a relatively small executive management team and in the event that the services of a number of these executives are no longer available, Kinross and its business could be adversely affected. Kinross does not carry key-person life insurance with respect to its executives.

 

Cybersecurity and Data Privacy Risks

 

The Company relies heavily on its information technology systems including, without limitation, its networks, equipment, hardware, software, telecommunications, and other information technology (collectively, “IT systems”), and the IT systems of its vendors and third-party service providers, to operate its business as a whole including mining operations and development projects. IT systems are subject to an increasing threat of continually evolving cybersecurity risks including, without limitation, computer viruses, security breaches, and cyberattacks. In addition, the Company is subject to the risk of unauthorized access to its IT systems or its information through fraud or other means. Kinross’ operations also depend on the timely maintenance, upgrade and replacement of its IT systems, as well as pre-emptive expenses to mitigate cybersecurity risks and other IT systems disruptions.

  

43

 

 

  

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Although Kinross has not experienced any material losses to date relating to cybersecurity, or other IT systems disruptions, there can be no assurance that Kinross will not incur such losses in the future. Despite the Company’s mitigation efforts including following an IT security risk management framework, the risk and exposure to these threats cannot be fully mitigated because of, among other things, the evolving nature of cybersecurity threats. As a result, cybersecurity and the continued development and enhancement of controls, processes and practices designed to protect IT systems from cybersecurity threats remain a priority. As these threats continue to evolve, the Company, its vendors and third-party service providers, including IT service providers, may be required to expend additional resources to continue to modify or enhance protective measures or to investigate and remediate any cybersecurity vulnerabilities. While Kinross carries cyber insurance, such insurance does not cover all the potential risks associated with such threats.

 

Any cybersecurity incidents or other IT systems disruption could result in production downtimes, operational delays, destruction or corruption of data, security breaches, financial losses from remedial actions, the theft or other compromising of confidential or otherwise protected information, fines and lawsuits, or damage to the Company’s reputation. Any such occurrence could have an adverse impact on Kinross’ financial condition and results of operations.

 

The Company is subject to privacy and data security regulations in several of the jurisdictions that it operates in, such as Canada, Brazil, the United States and the European Union (“EU”). The Company could incur substantial costs in complying with these various regulations as a result of having to make changes to prior business practices in a manner adverse to our business. Such developments may also require the Company to make system changes and develop new processes, further affecting our compliance costs. In addition, violations of privacy-related regulations can result in significant lawsuits, penalties and reputational harm, which in turn could adversely impact the Company’s business and results of operations.

 

Refining Capacity

 

The Company engages third-party refineries to refine doré into good delivery gold and silver bars, which are in turn sold into open markets. The refineries are located in Canada, Switzerland and the United States. The loss of any one refiner could have a material adverse effect on the Company if alternative refineries are unavailable. There can be no guarantee that alternative refineries would be available if the need for them were to arise or that it would not experience delays or disruptions in sales that would materially and adversely affect results of operations. In addition, the Company has doré inventory at refineries and could incur a loss arising from the refineries’ failure to fulfill their contractual obligations. The Company has legally binding agreements in place for such refining services and also purchases bullion insurance, but there is a risk that a refinery will not satisfy its delivery obligations. In such a case, the Company may pursue all remedies available, as appropriate, to enforce any outstanding delivery obligations. If such delivery obligations are not fulfilled by the refinery, remedied by a court in a specific performance or damages judgment or insurance proceeds are not received, the Company will incur a one-time non-cash charge related to the carrying value of the inventory.

 

Outbreak of Infectious Disease or Pandemic

 

An outbreak of infectious disease, pandemic or a similar public health threat, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and the response thereto, could adversely impact the Company, both operationally and financially. The extent to which COVID-19 and any other pandemic or public health crisis impacts our business, affairs, operations, financial condition, liquidity, availability of credit and results of operations will depend on future developments that are highly uncertain and cannot be accurately predicted.

 

Illegal Mining

 

Illegal mining activities occur near, and occasionally on some of the Company’s properties in Africa and Brazil. Illegal mining is associated with a number of negative impacts, including environmental degradation, human rights abuse, child labour and funding of conflict. In addition, substantial illegal mining activities on the Company’s properties or properties that the Company may seek to acquire in the future may deplete mineral reserves or mineral resources and the economic benefits of those properties. It is difficult for the Company to control illegal mining activities on and around its properties. The Company relies on government support and enforcement to manage illegal mining activities near its operations; however, enforcement is often lacking or inconsistent.

  

44

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

11. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION

 

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures and Ratios

 

The Company has included certain non-GAAP financial measures and ratios in this document. These financial measures and ratios are not defined under IFRS and should not be considered in isolation. The Company believes that these financial measures and ratios, together with financial measures and ratios determined in accordance with IFRS, provide investors with an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. The inclusion of these financial measures and ratios is meant to provide additional information and should not be used as a substitute for performance measures prepared in accordance with IFRS. These financial measures and ratios are not necessarily standard and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers.

 

All the non-GAAP financial measures and ratios for the year ended December 31, 2022 in this document are from continuing operations and exclude results from the Company’s Chirano and Russian operations due to the classification of these operations as discontinued and their sale in 2022.

 

Adjusted Net Earnings Attributable to Common Shareholders and Adjusted Net Earnings per Share

 

Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders and adjusted net earnings per share are non-GAAP financial measures and ratios which determine the performance of the Company, excluding certain impacts which the Company believes are not reflective of the Company’s underlying performance for the reporting period, such as the impact of foreign exchange gains and losses, reassessment of prior year taxes and/or taxes otherwise not related to the current period, impairment charges (reversals), gains and losses and other one-time costs related to acquisitions, dispositions and other transactions, and non-hedge derivative gains and losses. Although some of the items are recurring, the Company believes that they are not reflective of the underlying operating performance of its current business and are not necessarily indicative of future operating results. Management believes that these measures and ratios, which are used internally to assess performance and in planning and forecasting future operating results, provide investors with the ability to better evaluate underlying performance, particularly since the excluded items are typically not included in public guidance. However, adjusted net earnings and adjusted net earnings per share measures and ratios are not necessarily indicative of net earnings and earnings per share measures and ratios as determined under IFRS.

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of net earnings to adjusted net earnings for the periods presented:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions, except per share amounts)  2024   2023   2022 
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders - as reported  $948.8   $416.3   $31.9 
Adjusting items:               
Foreign exchange (gains) losses   (27.3)   1.9    (0.8)
Foreign exchange losses (gains) on translation of tax basis and foreign exchange on deferred income taxes within income tax expense   86.4    29.3    (25.5)
Taxes in respect of prior periods   (60.7)   13.9    16.2 
Impairment (reversal) charge   (74.1)   38.9    350.0 
Loss on sale of assets   6.0    14.8    14.3 
Insurance recoveries   (22.9)   (1.2)   (79.9)
Settlement provisions   2.6    30.0    - 
Reclamation expense (recovery)   6.9    (19.2)   23.5 
Other adjustments related to prior years   (27.8)   -    - 
Other(a)   (4.9)   19.3    14.2 
Tax effects of the above adjustments   5.3    (4.2)   (60.8)
    (110.5)   123.5    251.2 
Adjusted net earnings attributable to common shareholders  $838.3   $539.8   $283.1 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - Basic   1,228.9    1,227.0    1,280.5 
Adjusted net earnings per share  $0.68   $0.44   $0.22 
Basic earnings per share attributable to common shareholders - as reported  $0.77   $0.34   $0.02 

  

(a) Other includes various impacts, such as one-time costs and recoveries at sites, restructuring costs, as well as gains and losses on hedges, which the Company believes are not reflective of the Company’s underlying performance for the reporting period.

  

45

 

  

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Attributable Free Cash Flow

 

Attributable free cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure and is defined as net cash flow provided from operating activities less attributable capital expenditures and non-controlling interest included in net cash flows provided from operating activities. The Company believes that this measure, which is used internally to evaluate the Company’s underlying cash generation performance and the ability to repay creditors and return cash to shareholders, provides investors with the ability to better evaluate the Company’s underlying performance. However, this measure is not necessarily indicative of operating earnings or net cash flow provided from operating activities as determined under IFRS.

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of attributable free cash flow for the periods presented:

 

    Years ended December 31,  
(in millions)   2024     2023     2022  
Net cash flow provided from operating activities - as reported   $ 2,446.4     $ 1,605.3     $ 1,002.5  
Adjusting items:                        
Attributable(a) capital expenditures     (1,050.9 )     (1,055.0 )     (755.0 )
Non-controlling interest(b) cash flow (from) used in operating activities     (55.3 )     9.4       (0.2 )
Attributable(a) free cash flow   $ 1,340.2     $ 559.7     $ 247.3  

 

See page 52 of this MD&A for details of the footnotes referenced within the table above.

 

Attributable Adjusted Operating Cash Flow

 

Attributable adjusted operating cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure and is defined as net cash flow provided from operating activities excluding changes in working capital, certain impacts which the Company believes are not reflective of the Company’s regular operating cash flow, and net cash flows provided from operating activities, net of working capital changes, relating to non-controlling interests. Working capital can be volatile due to numerous factors, including the timing of tax payments. The Company uses attributable adjusted operating cash flow internally as a measure of the underlying operating cash flow performance and future operating cash flow-generating capability of the Company. However, the attributable adjusted operating cash flow measure is not necessarily indicative of net cash flow provided from operating activities as determined under IFRS.

  

The following table provides a reconciliation of attributable adjusted operating cash flow for the periods presented:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions)  2024   2023   2022 
Net cash flow provided from operating activities - as reported  $2,446.4   $1,605.3   $1,002.5 
Adjusting items:               
Insurance proceeds received in respect of prior years   (22.9)   -    - 
Working capital changes:               
Accounts receivable and other assets   (11.7)   (68.7)   (17.9)
Inventories   (14.3)   91.4    261.6 
Accounts payable and other liabilities, including income taxes paid   (192.6)   41.9    10.3 
    2,204.9    1,669.9    1,256.5 
Non-controlling interest(b) cash flow (from) used in operating activities, net of working capital changes   (61.8)   6.8    1.2 
Attributable(a) adjusted operating cash flow  $2,143.1   $1,676.7   $1,257.7 

  

See page 52 of this MD&A for details of the footnotes referenced within the table above.

  

46

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Attributable Average Realized Gold Price per Ounce

 

Attributable average realized gold price per ounce is a non-GAAP ratio which calculates the average price realized from gold sales attributable to the Company. The Company believes that this measure provides a more accurate measure with which to compare the Company's gold sales performance to market gold prices. The following table provides a reconciliation of attributable average realized gold price per ounce for the periods presented:

 

    Years ended December 31,  
(in millions, except ounces and average realized gold price per ounce)   2024     2023     2022  
Metal sales - as reported   $ 5,148.8     $ 4,239.7     $ 3,455.1  
Less: silver revenue(c)     (121.9 )     (204.3 )     (98.9 )
Less: non-controlling interest(b) gold revenue     (103.0 )     -       -  
Attributable(a) gold revenue   $ 4,923.9     $ 4,035.4     $ 3,356.2  
Gold ounces sold     2,100,621       2,074,989       1,872,342  
Less: non-controlling interest(b) gold ounces sold     (41,325 )     -       -  
Attributable(a) gold ounces sold     2,059,296       2,074,989       1,872,342  
Attributable(a) average realized gold price per ounce   $ 2,391     $ 1,945     $ 1,793  
Average realized gold price per ounce(d)   $ 2,393     $ 1,945     $ 1,793  

  

See page 52 of this MD&A for details of the footnotes referenced within the table above.

 

Attributable Production Cost of Sales per Equivalent Ounce Sold

 

Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold is defined as production cost of sales, as reported on the consolidated statement of operations, divided by the total number of gold equivalent ounces sold. This measure converts the Company’s non-gold production into gold equivalent ounces and credits it to total production.

 

Attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold is a non-GAAP ratio and is defined as attributable production cost of sales divided by the attributable number of gold equivalent ounces sold. This measure converts the Company’s attributable non-gold production into gold equivalent ounces and credits it to total attributable production. Management uses this measure to monitor and evaluate the performance of its operating properties that are attributable to its shareholders.

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of production cost of sales and attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold for the periods presented:

 

    Years ended December 31,  
(in millions, except ounces and production cost of sales per ounce)   2024     2023     2022  
Production cost of sales - as reported   $ 2,197.1     $ 2,054.4     $ 1,805.7  
Less: non-controlling interest(b) production cost of sales     (40.8 )     -       -  
Attributable(a) production cost of sales   $ 2,156.3     $ 2,054.4     $ 1,805.7  
Gold equivalent ounces sold     2,153,212       2,179,936       1,927,818  
Less: non-controlling interest(b) gold equivalent ounces sold     (41,524 )     -       -  
Attributable(a) gold equivalent ounces sold     2,111,688       2,179,936       1,927,818  
Attributable(a) production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold   $ 1,021     $ 942     $ 937  
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold(e)   $ 1,020     $ 942     $ 937  

 

See page 52 of this MD&A for details of the footnotes referenced within the table above.

  

47

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Attributable Production Cost of Sales per Ounce Sold on a By-Product Basis

 

Attributable production cost of sales per ounce sold on a by-product basis is a non-GAAP ratio which calculates the Company’s non-gold production as a credit against its per ounce production costs, rather than converting its non-gold production into gold equivalent ounces and crediting it to total production, as is the case in co-product accounting. Management believes that this ratio provides investors with the ability to better evaluate Kinross’ production cost of sales per ounce on a comparable basis with other major gold producers who routinely calculate their cost of sales per ounce using by-product accounting rather than co-product accounting.

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of attributable production cost of sales per ounce sold on a by-product basis for the periods presented:

 

    Years ended December 31,  
(in millions, except ounces and production cost of sales per ounce)   2024     2023     2022  
Production cost of sales - as reported   $ 2,197.1     $ 2,054.4     $ 1,805.7  
Less: non-controlling interest(b) production cost of sales     (40.8 )     -       -  
Less: attributable(a) silver revenue(c)   (121.4 )   (204.3 )   (98.9 )
Attributable(a) production cost of sales net of silver by-product revenue   $ 2,034.9     $ 1,850.1     $ 1,706.8  
Gold ounces sold     2,100,621     2,074,989       1,872,342  
Less: non-controlling interest(b) gold ounces sold     (41,325 )     -       -  
Attributable(a) gold ounces sold     2,059,296       2,074,989       1,872,342  
Attributable(a) production cost of sales per ounce sold on a by-product basis   $ 988     $ 892     $ 912  
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold(e)   $ 1,020     $ 942     $ 937  

 

See page 52 of this MD&A for details of the footnotes referenced within the table above.

  

48

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Attributable All-In Sustaining Cost and All-In Cost per Ounce Sold on a By-Product Basis

 

Attributable all-in sustaining cost and all-in cost per ounce sold on a by-product basis are non-GAAP financial measures and ratios, as applicable, calculated based on guidance published by the World Gold Council (“WGC”). The WGC is a market development organization for the gold industry and is an association whose membership comprises leading gold mining companies including Kinross. Although the WGC is not a mining industry regulatory organization, it worked closely with its member companies to develop these metrics. Adoption of the all-in sustaining cost and all-in cost metrics is voluntary and not necessarily standard, and therefore, these measures and ratios presented by the Company may not be comparable to similar measures and ratios presented by other issuers. The Company believes that the all-in sustaining cost and all-in cost measures complement existing measures and ratios reported by Kinross.

 

All-in sustaining cost includes both operating and capital costs required to sustain gold production on an ongoing basis. The value of silver sold is deducted from the total production cost of sales as it is considered residual production, i.e. a by-product. Sustaining operating costs represent expenditures incurred at current operations that are considered necessary to maintain current production. Sustaining capital represents capital expenditures at existing operations comprising mine development costs, including capitalized development, and ongoing replacement of mine equipment and other capital facilities, and does not include capital expenditures for major growth projects or enhancement capital for significant infrastructure improvements at existing operations.

 

All-in cost is comprised of all-in sustaining cost as well as operating expenditures incurred at locations with no current operation, or costs related to other non-sustaining activities, and capital expenditures for major growth projects or enhancement capital for significant infrastructure improvements at existing operations.

 

Attributable all-in sustaining cost and all-in cost per ounce sold on a by-product basis are calculated by adjusting production cost of sales, as reported on the consolidated statements of operations, as follows:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions, except ounces and costs per ounce)  2024   2023   2022 
Production cost of sales - as reported   $2,197.1   $2,054.4   $1,805.7 
Less: non-controlling interest(b) production cost of sales   (40.8)   -    - 
Less: attributable(a) silver revenue(c)   (121.4)   (204.3)   (98.9)
Attributable(a) production cost of sales net of silver by-product revenue  $2,034.9   $1,850.1   $1,706.8 
Adjusting items on an attributable(a) basis:               
General and administrative(f)   122.2    106.9    116.8 
Other operating expense - sustaining(g)   4.0    23.0    28.5 
Reclamation and remediation - sustaining(h)   71.4    63.1    42.7 
Exploration and business development - sustaining(i)   42.5    38.3    30.6 
Additions to property, plant and equipment - sustaining(j)   523.5    554.3    402.6 
Lease payments - sustaining(k)   11.8    29.5    22.4 
All-in Sustaining Cost on a by-product basis - attributable(a)  $2,810.3   $2,665.2   $2,350.4 
Adjusting items on an attributable(a) basis:               
Other operating expense - non-sustaining(g)   53.1    38.5    45.1 
Reclamation and remediation - non-sustaining(h)   6.8    7.7    8.0 
Exploration and business development - non-sustaining(i)   153.4    145.9    122.3 
Additions to property, plant and equipment - non-sustaining(j)   527.4    500.7    352.4 
Lease payments - non-sustaining(k)   0.3    0.7    0.8 
All-in Cost on a by-product basis - attributable(a)  $3,551.3   $3,358.7   $2,879.0 
Gold ounces sold   2,100,621    2,074,989    1,872,342 
Less: non-controlling interest(b) gold ounces sold   (41,325)   -    - 
Attributable(a) gold ounces sold   2,059,296    2,074,989    1,872,342 
Attributable(a) all-in sustaining cost per ounce sold on a by-product basis  $1,365   $1,284   $1,255 
Attributable(a) all-in cost per ounce sold on a by-product basis    $1,725   $1,619   $1,538 
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold(e)  $1,020   $942   $937 

  

See page 52 of this MD&A for details of the footnotes referenced within the table above.

  

49

 

  

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Attributable All-In Sustaining Cost and All-In Cost per Equivalent Ounce Sold

 

The Company also assesses its attributable all-in sustaining cost and all-in cost on a gold equivalent ounce basis. Under these non-GAAP financial measures and ratios, the Company’s production of silver is converted into gold equivalent ounces and credited to total production.

  

Attributable all-in sustaining cost and all-in cost per equivalent ounce sold are calculated by adjusting production cost of sales, as reported on the consolidated statements of operations, as follows:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
(in millions, except ounces and costs per equivalent ounce)  2024   2023   2022 
Production cost of sales - as reported  $2,197.1   $2,054.4   $1,805.7 
Less: non-controlling interest(b) production cost of sales   (40.8)   -    - 
Attributable(a) production cost of sales  $2,156.3   $2,054.4   $1,805.7 
Adjusting items on an attributable(a) basis:               
General and administrative(f)   122.2    106.9    116.8 
Other operating expense - sustaining(g)   4.0    23.0    28.5 
Reclamation and remediation - sustaining(h)   71.4    63.1    42.7 
Exploration and business development - sustaining(i)   42.5    38.3    30.6 
Additions to property, plant and equipment - sustaining(j)   523.5    554.3    402.6 
Lease payments - sustaining(k)   11.8    29.5    22.4 
All-in Sustaining Cost - attributable(a)  $2,931.7   $2,869.5   $2,449.3 
Adjusting items on an attributable(a) basis:               
Other operating expense - non-sustaining(g)   53.1    38.5    45.1 
Reclamation and remediation - non-sustaining(h)   6.8    7.7    8.0 
Exploration and business development - non-sustaining(i)   153.4    145.9    122.3 
Additions to property, plant and equipment - non-sustaining(j)   527.4    500.7    352.4 
Lease payments - non-sustaining(k)   0.3    0.7    0.8 
All-in Cost - attributable(a)  $3,672.7   $3,563.0   $2,977.9 
Gold equivalent ounces sold   2,153,212    2,179,936    1,927,818 
Less: non-controlling interest(b) gold equivalent ounces sold   (41,524)   -    - 
Attributable(a) gold equivalent ounces sold   2,111,688    2,179,936    1,927,818 
Attributable(a) all-in sustaining cost per equivalent ounce sold  $1,388   $1,316   $1,271 
Attributable(a) all-in cost per equivalent ounce sold   $1,739   $1,634   $1,545 
Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold(e)  $1,020   $942   $937 

 

See page 52 of this MD&A for details of the footnotes referenced within the table above.

 

50

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Capital Expenditures and Attributable Capital Expenditures

 

Capital expenditures are classified as either sustaining capital expenditures or non-sustaining capital expenditures, depending on the nature of the expenditure. Sustaining capital expenditures typically represent capital expenditures at existing operations including capitalized exploration costs and capitalized development unless related to major projects, ongoing replacement of mine equipment and other capital facilities and other capital expenditures and is calculated as total additions to property, plant and equipment (as reported on the consolidated statements of cash flows), less non-sustaining capital expenditures. Non-sustaining capital expenditures represent capital expenditures for major projects, including major capital development projects at existing operations that are expected to materially benefit the operation, as well as enhancement capital for significant infrastructure improvements at existing operations. Management believes the distinction between sustaining capital expenditures and non-sustaining expenditures is a useful indicator of the purpose of capital expenditures and this distinction is an input into the calculation of attributable all-in sustaining costs per ounce and attributable all-in costs per ounce. The categorization of sustaining capital expenditures and non-sustaining capital expenditures is consistent with the definitions under the WGC all-in cost standard. Sustaining capital expenditures and non-sustaining capital expenditures are not defined under IFRS, however, the sum of these two measures total to additions to property, plant and equipment as disclosed under IFRS on the consolidated statements of cash flows.

 

Additions to property, plant and equipment per the consolidated statements of cash flows includes 100% of capital expenditures for Manh Choh. Attributable capital expenditures includes Kinross' 70% share of capital expenditures for Manh Choh. Management believes this to be a useful indicator of Kinross’ cash resources utilized for capital expenditures.

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of the classification of capital expenditures for the periods presented:

 

Year ended December 31, 2024   Tasiast
(Mauritania)
    Paracatu
(Brazil)
    La Coipa
(Chile)
    Fort Knox(l)
(USA)
    Round
Mountain
(USA)
    Bald
Mountain
(USA)
    Total USA     Other     Total  
Sustaining capital expenditures   $ 64.3     $ 140.5     $ 65.8     $ 195.2     $ 15.4     $ 46.4     $ 257.0     $ (0.7 )   $ 526.9  
Non-sustaining capital expenditures   $ 279.6     $ -     $ 3.6     $ 97.0     $ 110.9     $ 3.1     $ 211.0     $ 54.4     $ 548.6  
Additions to property, plant and equipment - per cash flow   $ 343.9     $ 140.5     $ 69.4     $ 292.2     $ 126.3     $ 49.5     $ 468.0     $ 53.7     $ 1,075.5  
Less: Non-controlling interest(b)   $ -     $ -     $ -     $ (24.6 )   $ -     $ -     $ (24.6 )   $ -     $ (24.6 )
Attributable(a) capital expenditures   $ 343.9     $ 140.5     $ 69.4     $ 267.6     $ 126.3     $ 49.5     $ 443.4     $ 53.7     $ 1,050.9  
                                                                         
Year ended December 31, 2023                                                                        
Sustaining capital expenditures   $ 45.6     $ 167.5     $ 36.0     $ 193.4     $ 30.2     $ 79.5     $ 303.1     $ 2.1     $ 554.3  
Non-sustaining capital expenditures   $ 263.4     $ -     $ 38.8     $ 175.0     $ 0.3     $ 40.8     $ 216.1     $ 25.7     $ 544.0  
Additions to property, plant and equipment - per cash flow   $ 309.0     $ 167.5     $ 74.8     $ 368.4     $ 30.5     $ 120.3     $ 519.2     $ 27.8     $ 1,098.3  
Less: Non-controlling interest(b)   $ -     $ -     $ -     $ (43.3 )   $ -     $ -     $ (43.3 )   $ -     $ (43.3 )
Attributable(a) capital expenditures   $ 309.0     $ 167.5     $ 74.8     $ 325.1     $ 30.5     $ 120.3     $ 475.9     $ 27.8     $ 1,055.0  
                                                                         
Year ended December 31, 2022                                                                        
Sustaining capital expenditures   $ 52.7     $ 124.7     $ 7.8     $ 78.7     $ 102.2     $ 35.3     $ 216.2     $ 1.2     $ 402.6  
Non-sustaining capital expenditures   $ 114.7     $ -     $ 147.7     $ 40.6     $ 0.2     $ 52.3     $ 93.1     $ 6.1     $ 361.6  
Additions to property, plant and equipment - per cash flow   $ 167.4     $ 124.7     $ 155.5     $ 119.3     $ 102.4     $ 87.6     $ 309.3     $ 7.3     $ 764.2  
Less: Non-controlling interest(b)   $ -     $ -     $ -     $ (9.2 )   $ -     $ -     $ (9.2 )   $ -     $ (9.2 )
Attributable(a) capital expenditures   $ 167.4     $ 124.7     $ 155.5     $ 110.1     $ 102.4     $ 87.6     $ 300.1     $ 7.3     $ 755.0  

  

See page 52 of this MD&A for details of the footnotes referenced within the tables above.

  

51

 

  

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

(a) “Attributable” measures and ratios include Kinross’ share of Manh Choh (70%) cash flows, costs, sales and capital expenditures.

(b) “Non-controlling interest” represents the non-controlling interest portion in Manh Choh (30%) and other subsidiaries for which the Company’s interest is less than 100% for cash flow from operating activities, costs, sales and capital expenditures, as appropriate.

(c) “Silver revenue” represents the portion of metal sales realized from the production of the secondary or by-product metal (i.e. silver). Revenue from the sale of silver, which is produced as a by-product of the process used to produce gold, effectively reduces the cost of gold production.

(d) “Average realized gold price per ounce” is defined as gold revenue divided by total gold ounces sold.

(e) “Production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold” is defined as production cost of sales divided by total gold equivalent ounces sold.

(f) “General and administrative” expenses are as reported on the consolidated statements of operations, excluding certain impacts which the Company believes are not reflective of the Company’s underlying performance for the reporting period. General and administrative expenses are considered sustaining costs as they are required to be absorbed on a continuing basis for the effective operation and governance of the Company.

(g) “Other operating expense – sustaining” is calculated as “Other operating expense” as reported on the consolidated statements of operations, less the non-controlling interest portion in Manh Choh (30%) and other subsidiaries for which the Company’s interest is less than 100% and other operating and reclamation and remediation expenses related to non-sustaining activities as well as other items not reflective of the underlying operating performance of our business. Other operating expenses are classified as either sustaining or non-sustaining based on the type and location of the expenditure incurred. The majority of other operating expenses that are incurred at existing operations are considered costs necessary to sustain operations, and are therefore, classified as sustaining. Other operating expenses incurred at locations where there is no current operation or related to other non-sustaining activities are classified as non-sustaining.

(h) “Reclamation and remediation – sustaining” is calculated as current period accretion related to reclamation and remediation obligations plus current period amortization of the corresponding reclamation and remediation assets, less the non-controlling interest portion in Manh Choh (30%) and other subsidiaries for which the Company’s interest is less than 100%, and is intended to reflect the periodic cost of reclamation and remediation for currently operating mines. Reclamation and remediation costs for development projects or closed mines are excluded from this amount and classified as non-sustaining.

(i) “Exploration and business development – sustaining” is calculated as “Exploration and business development” expenses as reported on the consolidated statements of operations, less the non-controlling interest portion in Manh Choh (30%) and other subsidiaries for which the Company’s interest is less than 100% and non-sustaining exploration and business development expenses. Exploration expenses are classified as either sustaining or non-sustaining based on a determination of the type and location of the exploration expenditure. Exploration expenditures within the footprint of operating mines are considered costs required to sustain current operations and are therefore included in sustaining costs. Exploration expenditures focused on new ore bodies near existing mines (i.e. brownfield), new exploration projects (i.e. greenfield) or for other generative exploration activity not linked to existing mining operations are classified as non-sustaining. Business development expenses are classified as either sustaining or non-sustaining based on a determination of the type of expense and requirement for general or growth-related operations.

(j) “Additions to property, plant and equipment – sustaining” and “non-sustaining” are as presented on page 51 of this MD&A and include Kinross’ share of Manh Choh’s (70%) sustaining and non-sustaining capital expenditures.

(k) “Lease payments – sustaining” represents the majority of lease payments as reported on the consolidated statements of cash flows and is made up of the principal and financing components of such cash payments, less the non-controlling interest portion in Manh Choh (30%) and other subsidiaries for which the Company’s interest is less than 100%, and non-sustaining lease payments. Lease payments for development projects or closed mines are classified as non-sustaining.

(l) The Fort Knox segment is composed of Fort Knox and Manh Choh for all periods presented.

  

52

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

Cautionary Statement on Forward-Looking Information

 

All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained or incorporated by reference in this MD&A including, but not limited to, any information as to the future financial or operating performance of Kinross, constitute “forward-looking information” or “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the provisions of the Securities Act (Ontario) and the provisions for “safe harbor” under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as of the date of this MD&A. Forward-looking statements contained in this MD&A, include, but are not limited to, those under the headings (or headings that include) “Outlook”, “Project Updates and New Developments”, and “Liquidity Outlook” and include, without limitation, statements with respect to our guidance for production, cost guidance, including production costs of sales, all-in sustaining cost of sales, and capital expenditures; statements with respect to our forecasts for cash flow and free cash flow; the declaration, payment and sustainability of the Company’s dividends; the implementation of a share buyback; identification of additional resources and reserves or the conversion of resources to reserves; the Company’s liquidity; the Company’s plan to reduce debt; the schedules budgets, and forecast economics for the Company’s development projects; budgets for and future plans for exploration, development and operation at the Company’s operations and projects, including the Great Bear project; the projected yearly gold production profile from both open pit and underground operations, all-in sustaining costs, mill throughput and average grades at the Great Bear project; potential mine life extensions at the Company’s operations; the Company’s balance sheet and liquidity outlook, as well as references to other possible events including, the future price of gold and silver, costs of production, operating costs; price inflation; capital expenditures, costs and timing of the development of projects and new deposits, estimates and the realization of such estimates (such as mineral or gold reserves and resources or mine life), success of exploration, development and mining, currency fluctuations, capital requirements, project studies, government regulation, permit applications, environmental risks and proceedings, and resolution of pending litigation. The words “advance”, “continue”, “expects”, “focus”, “goal”, “guidance”, “on plan”, “on track”, “opportunity”, “plan”, “potential”, “priority”, “progress”, “target”, “upside”, “view”, or variations of or similar such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results may, could, should or will be achieved, received or taken, or will occur or result and similar such expressions identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by Kinross as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. The estimates, models and assumptions of Kinross referenced, contained or incorporated by reference in this MD&A, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to, the various assumptions set forth herein, and the Annual Information Form dated March 27, 2024 as well as: (1) there being no significant disruptions affecting the operations of the Company, whether due to extreme weather events (including, without limitation, excessive snowfall, excessive or lack of rainfall) and other or related natural disasters, labour disruptions (including but not limited to strikes or workforce reductions), supply disruptions, power disruptions, damage to equipment, pit wall slides or otherwise; (2) permitting, development, operations and production from the Company’s operations and development projects being consistent with Kinross’ current expectations including, without limitation: the maintenance of existing permits and approvals and the timely receipt of all permits and authorizations necessary for construction and operations; water and power supply and continued operation of the tailings reprocessing facility at Paracatu; permitting of the Great Bear project (including the consultation process with Indigenous groups), permitting and development of the Lobo-Marte project; in each case in a manner consistent with the Company’s expectations; and the successful completion of exploration consistent with the Company’s expectations at the Company’s projects; (3) political and legal developments in any jurisdiction in which the Company operates being consistent with its current expectations including, without limitation, restrictions or penalties imposed, or actions taken, by any government, including but not limited to amendments to the mining laws, and potential power rationing and tailings facility regulations in Brazil (including those related to financial assurance requirements), potential amendments to water laws and/or other water use restrictions and regulatory actions in Chile, new dam safety regulations, potential amendments to minerals and mining laws and energy levies laws, new regulations relating to work permits, potential amendments to customs and mining laws (including but not limited to amendments to the VAT) and the potential application of the tax code in Mauritania, potential amendments to and enforcement of tax laws in Mauritania (including, but not limited to, the interpretation, implementation, application and enforcement of any such laws and amendments thereto), potential third party legal challenges to existing permits, and the impact of any trade tariffs being consistent with Kinross’ current expectations; (4) the completion of studies and the results of those studies being consistent with Kinross’ current expectations; (5) the exchange rate between the Canadian dollar, Brazilian real, Chilean peso, Mauritanian ouguiya and the U.S. dollar being approximately consistent with current levels; (6) certain price assumptions for gold and silver; (7) prices for diesel, natural gas, fuel oil, electricity and other key supplies being approximately consistent with the Company’s expectations; (8) attributable production and cost of sales forecasts for the Company meeting expectations; (9) the accuracy of the current mineral reserve and mineral resource estimates of the Company and Kinross’ analysis thereof being consistent with expectations (including but not limited to ore tonnage and ore grade estimates), future mineral resource and mineral reserve estimates being consistent with preliminary work undertaken by the Company, mine plans for the Company’s current and future mining operations, and the Company’s internal models; (10) labour and materials costs increasing on a basis consistent with Kinross’ current expectations; (11) the terms and conditions of the legal and fiscal stability agreements for Tasiast being interpreted and applied in a manner consistent with their intent and Kinross’ expectations and without material amendment or formal dispute (including without limitation the application of tax, customs and duties exemptions and royalties); (12) asset impairment potential; (13) the regulatory and legislative regime regarding mining, electricity production and transmission (including rules related to power tariffs) in Brazil being consistent with Kinross’ current expectations; (14) access to capital markets, including but not limited to maintaining our current credit ratings consistent with the Company’s current expectations; (15) potential direct or indirect operational impacts resulting from infectious diseases or pandemics; (16) changes in national and local government legislation or other government actions, including the Canadian federal impact assessment regime; (17) litigation, regulatory proceedings and audits, and the potential ramifications thereof, being concluded in a manner consistent with the Company’s expectations (including without limitation litigation in Chile relating to the alleged damage of wetlands and the scope of any remediation plan or other environmental obligations arising therefrom); (18) the Company’s financial results, cash flows and future prospects being consistent with Company expectations in amounts sufficient to permit sustained dividend payments; and (19) the impacts of geotechnical instability at Round Mountain and Bald Mountain being consistent with the Company’s expectations. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: the inaccuracy of any of the foregoing assumptions; fluctuations in the currency markets; fluctuations in the spot and forward price of gold or certain other commodities (such as fuel and electricity); price inflation of goods and services; changes in the discount rates applied to calculate the present value of net future cash flows based on country-specific real weighted average cost of capital; changes in the market valuations of peer group gold producers and the Company, and the resulting impact on market price to net asset value multiples; changes in various market variables, such as interest rates, foreign exchange rates, gold or silver prices and lease rates, or global fuel prices, that could impact the mark-to-market value of outstanding derivative instruments and ongoing payments/receipts under any financial obligations; risks arising from holding derivative instruments (such as credit risk, market liquidity risk and mark-to-market risk); changes in national and local government legislation, taxation (including but not limited to income tax, advance income tax, stamp tax, withholding tax, capital tax, tariffs, value-added or sales tax, capital outflow tax, capital gains tax, windfall or windfall profits tax, production royalties, excise tax, customs/import or export taxes/duties, asset taxes, asset transfer tax, property use or other real estate tax, together with any related fine, penalty, surcharge, or interest imposed in connection with such taxes), controls, tariffs, policies and regulations; the security of personnel and assets; political or economic developments in Canada, the United States, Chile, Brazil, Mauritania or other countries in which Kinross does business or may carry on business; business opportunities that may be presented to, or pursued by, us; our ability to successfully integrate acquisitions and complete divestitures; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining, development or refining activities; employee relations; litigation or other claims against, or regulatory investigations and/or any enforcement actions, administrative orders or sanctions

 

 

53

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

management’s discussion and analysis

For the year ended December 31, 2024

 

in respect of the Company (and/or its directors, officers, or employees) including, but not limited to, securities class action litigation in Canada and/or the United States, environmental litigation or regulatory proceedings or any investigations, enforcement actions and/or sanctions under any applicable anti-corruption, international sanctions and/or anti-money laundering laws and regulations in Canada, the United States or any other applicable jurisdiction; the speculative nature of gold exploration and development including, but not limited to, the risks of obtaining and maintaining necessary licenses and permits; diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; adverse changes in our credit ratings; and contests over title to properties, particularly title to undeveloped properties. In addition, there are risks and hazards associated with the business of gold exploration, development and mining, including environmental hazards, industrial accidents, unusual or unexpected formations, pressures, cave-ins, flooding and gold bullion losses (and the risk of inadequate insurance, or the inability to obtain insurance, to cover these risks). Many of these uncertainties and contingencies can directly or indirectly affect, and could cause, Kinross’ actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, Kinross, including but not limited to resulting in an impairment charge on goodwill and/or assets. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management’s expectations and plans relating to the future. All of the forward-looking statements made in this MD&A are qualified by this cautionary statement and those made in our other filings with the securities regulators of Canada and the United States including, but not limited to, the cautionary statements made in the “Risk Analysis” section of this MD&A, and the “Risk Factors” set forth in the Company’s Annual Information Form dated March 27, 2024. These factors are not intended to represent a complete list of the factors that could affect Kinross. Kinross disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and such forward-looking statements, except to the extent required by applicable law.

 

Key Sensitivities

 

Approximately 70%-80% of the Company's costs are denominated in U.S. dollars.

 

A 10% change in foreign currency exchange rates would be expected to result in an approximate $25 impact on attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2,9.

 

Specific to the Brazilian real, a 10% change in the exchange rate would be expected to result in an approximate $45 impact on Brazilian attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2.

 

Specific to the Chilean peso, a 10% change in the exchange rate would be expected to result in an approximate $50 impact on Chilean attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2.

  

A $10 per barrel change in the price of oil would be expected to result in an approximate $3 impact on attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2.

 

A $100 change in the price of gold would be expected to result in an approximate $5 impact on attributable production cost of sales per equivalent ounce sold2 as a result of a change in royalties.

 

Other information

 

Where we say ‘‘we’’, ‘‘us’’, ‘‘our’’, the ‘‘Company’’, or ‘‘Kinross’’ in this MD&A, we mean Kinross Gold Corporation and/or one or more or all of its subsidiaries, as may be applicable.

 

The technical information about the Company’s mineral properties contained in this MD&A has been prepared under the supervision of Mr. Nicos Pfeiffer who is a “qualified person” within the meaning of National Instrument 43-101.

  

 

9 Refers to all of the currencies in the countries where the Company has mining operations, fluctuating simultaneously by 10% in the same direction, either appreciating or depreciating, taking into consideration the impact of hedging and the weighting of each currency within our consolidated cost structure.

   

54

 

Exhibit 99.2

 

Management’s Responsibility for Financial Statements

 

The consolidated financial statements, the notes thereto, and other financial information contained in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and are the responsibility of the management of Kinross Gold Corporation (the “Company”). The financial information presented elsewhere in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis is consistent with the data that is contained in the consolidated financial statements. The consolidated financial statements, where necessary, include amounts which are based on the best estimates and judgment of management.

 

In order to discharge management’s responsibility for the integrity of the financial statements, the Company maintains a system of internal accounting controls. These controls are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the Company’s assets are safeguarded, transactions are executed and recorded in accordance with management’s authorization, proper records are maintained and relevant and reliable financial information is produced. These controls include maintaining quality standards in hiring and training of employees, policies and procedures manuals, a corporate code of conduct and ensuring that there is proper accountability for performance within appropriate and well-defined areas of responsibility. The system of internal controls is further supported by a compliance function, which is designed to ensure that we and our employees comply with securities legislation and conflict of interest rules.

 

The Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing management’s performance of its responsibilities for financial reporting and internal control. The Audit and Risk Committee, which is composed of non-executive directors, meets with management as well as the external auditors to ensure that management is properly fulfilling its financial reporting responsibilities to the Directors who approve the consolidated financial statements. The external auditors have full and unrestricted access to the Audit and Risk Committee to discuss the scope of their audits, the adequacy of the system of internal controls and review financial reporting issues.

 

The consolidated financial statements have been audited by KPMG LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).

 

/s/ J. Paul Rollinson   /s/ Andrea S. Freeborough
     
J. Paul Rollinson   ANDREA S. FREEBOROUGH
     

Chief Executive Officer

Toronto, Canada

February 12, 2025 

 

Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer

Toronto, Canada

February 12, 2025

 

1

 

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

The Management of Kinross Gold Corporation (“Kinross”) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, and have designed such internal control over financial reporting to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

Management has used the Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) to evaluate the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, which is a recognized and suitable framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”).

 

Because of inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

Management has evaluated the design and operation of Kinross’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, and has concluded that such internal control over financial reporting is effective.

 

The effectiveness of Kinross’ internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024 has been audited by KPMG LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report that appears herein.

 

/s/ J. Paul Rollinson   /s/ Andrea S. Freeborough
     
J. Paul Rollinson   ANDREA S. FREEBOROUGH
     

Chief Executive Officer

Toronto, Canada

February 12, 2025 

 

Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer

Toronto, Canada

February 12, 2025

 

2

 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Kinross Gold Corporation

 

 

Opinion on the Consolidated Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Kinross Gold Corporation (the Company) as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, equity, and cash flows for each of the years then ended, and the related notes (collectively, the consolidated financial statements). In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2024 and 2023 and its financial performance and its cash flows for each of the years then ended, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission, and our report dated February 12, 2025, expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

Critical Audit Matter

 

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit and risk committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of a critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.

 

Assessment of the recoverable amount of property, plant and equipment of the Lobo-Marte cash generating unit

 

As discussed in Note 6iv. to the consolidated financial statements, the carrying value of the Company’s property, plant and equipment was $7,968.6 million as of December 31, 2024. As discussed in note 5(b) to the consolidated financial statements, the assessment of fair values for potential impairment or reversal of impairment, require the use of estimates and assumptions for recoverable production, future capital requirements and operating performance, as contained in the Company’s life of mine plans, as well as future and long-term commodity prices, discount rates and foreign exchange rates. As discussed in Note 7i. to the consolidated financial statements, key assumptions used in determining the recoverable amount of Lobo-Marte included estimated 2024, 2025, 2026 and long-term gold prices of $2,300, $2,300, $2,200 and $2,000 per ounce, respectively. The discount rate applied to present value the net future cash flows was 10.40% for Lobo-Marte.

 

We identified the assessment of the recoverable amount of property, plant and equipment of the Lobo-Marte cash generating unit as a critical audit matter. Significant auditor judgment was required to assess the significant assumptions of future and long-term gold prices, discount rate, recoverable production, and costs used to determine the future cash flows. In addition, auditor judgment was required to assess the mineral reserves and resources which form the basis of the life of mine plan.

 

The following are the primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter. We evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of certain internal controls over the Company’s process to determine the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit. This included controls over the determination of future cash flows in the life of mine model used to estimate the recoverable amount of the cash generating unit and the development of the significant assumptions. We assessed the estimates of recoverable production and cost assumptions used in the life of mine plan by comparing them to published technical reports and comparable operating sites. We assessed the competence, capabilities and objectivity of the Company’s personnel who prepared the historical reserve and resource information, including the industry and regulatory standards they applied. We involved valuation professionals with specialized skills and knowledge, who assisted in evaluating the future and long-term gold prices by comparing to third party estimates and evaluating the discount rate assumption by comparing to an estimate that was independently developed using publicly available third-party sources.

 

/s/ KPMG LLP

 

Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants

 

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2005.

 

Toronto, Canada

February 12, 2025

3

 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Kinross Gold Corporation:

 

 

Opinion on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

We have audited Kinross Gold Corporation’s (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the consolidated balance sheets of the Company as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, equity, and cash flows for each of the years then ended and the related notes (collectively, the consolidated financial statements), and our report dated February 12, 2025 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

/s/ KPMG LLP

 

Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants

 

Toronto, Canada

February 12, 2025

4

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS 

(expressed in millions of United States dollars, except share amounts)

 

      As at 
      December 31,   December 31, 
      2024   2023 
Assets             
Current assets             
Cash and cash equivalents  Note 6  $611.5   $352.4 
Restricted cash      10.2    9.8 
Accounts receivable and prepaid assets  Note 6   257.3    268.7 
Current income tax recoverable      0.9    3.4 
Inventories  Note 6   1,243.2    1,153.0 
Other current assets      3.6    15.0 
       2,126.7    1,802.3 
Non-current assets             
Property, plant and equipment  Note 6 and 7   7,968.6    7,963.2 
Long-term investments      51.9    54.7 
Other long-term assets  Note 6   713.1    710.6 
Deferred tax assets  Note 15   5.3    12.5 
Total assets     $10,865.6   $10,543.3 
              
Liabilities             
Current liabilities             
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities  Note 6  $543.0   $531.5 
Current income tax payable      236.7    92.9 
Current portion of long-term debt  Note 10   199.9    - 
Current portion of provisions  Note 11   62.5    48.8 
Other current liabilities      18.0    12.3 
       1,060.1    685.5 
Non-current liabilities             
Long-term debt  Note 10   1,235.5    2,232.6 
Provisions  Note 11   941.5    889.9 
Other long-term liabilities      78.9    99.9 
Deferred tax liabilities  Note 15   549.0    449.7 
Total liabilities     $3,865.0   $4,357.6 
              
Equity             
Common shareholders' equity             
Common share capital  Note 12  $4,487.3   $4,481.6 
Contributed surplus      10,643.0    10,646.0 
Accumulated deficit      (8,181.3)   (8,982.6)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss      (87.4)   (61.3)
Total common shareholders' equity      6,861.6    6,083.7 
Non-controlling interests      139.0    102.0 
Total equity     $7,000.6   $6,185.7 
Commitments and contingencies  Note 18          
Subsequent events  Note 10 and 12          
Total liabilities and equity     $10,865.6   $10,543.3 
              
Common shares             
Authorized      Unlimited    Unlimited  
Issued and outstanding  Note 12   1,229,125,606    1,227,837,974 

  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

Signed on behalf of the Board:

 

/s/ Glenn A. Ives /s/ Kerry D. Dyte
   
Glenn A. Ives Kerry D. Dyte
Director Director

 

5

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Operations 

(expressed in millions of United States dollars, except per share amounts)

 

      Years ended 
      December 31,   December 31, 
      2024   2023 
Revenue             
Metal sales     $5,148.8   $4,239.7 
              
Cost of sales             
Production cost of sales      2,197.1    2,054.4 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization      1,147.5    986.8 
Impairment (reversal) charge  Note 7   (74.1)   38.9 
Total cost of sales      3,270.5    3,080.1 
Gross profit      1,878.3    1,159.6 
Other operating expense  Note 6   14.0    64.5 
Exploration and business development      197.8    185.0 
General and administrative      126.2    108.7 
Operating earnings      1,540.3    801.4 
Other income (expense) - net      14.3    (27.3)
Finance income      18.2    40.5 
Finance expense  Note 6   (91.4)   (106.0)
Earnings before tax      1,481.4    708.6 
Income tax expense - net  Note 15   (487.4)   (293.2)
Net earnings     $994.0   $415.4 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to:             
Non-controlling interests     $45.2   $(0.9)
Common shareholders     $948.8   $416.3 
Earnings per share attributable to common shareholders             
Basic     $0.77   $0.34 
Diluted     $0.77   $0.34 

  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

6

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive INCOME

(expressed in millions of United States dollars)

 

   Years ended 
   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Net earnings  $994.0   $415.4 
           
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:          
Item that will not be reclassified to profit or loss:          
Equity investments at fair value through other comprehensive income ("FVOCI") - net change in fair value(a)   (8.6)   (7.2)
           
Items that are or may be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods:          
Cash flow hedges - effective portion of changes in fair value(b)    (15.3)   6.4 
Cash flow hedges - reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI")(c)   (2.2)   (18.8)
    (26.1)   (19.6)
Total comprehensive income  $967.9   $395.8 
           
Attributable to non-controlling interests  $45.2   $(0.9)
Attributable to common shareholders  $922.7   $396.7 

 

(a)Net of tax recovery of $0.1 (2023 - $nil).
(b)Net of tax (recovery) expense of $(4.8) million (2023 - $3.0 million).
(c)Net of tax recovery of $0.5 million (2023 - $6.6 million).

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

7

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(expressed in millions of United States dollars)

 

      Years ended 
      December 31,   December 31, 
      2024   2023 
Net inflow (outflow) of cash related to the following activities:           
Operating:           
Net earnings     $994.0   $415.4 
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided from operating activities:             
Depreciation, depletion and amortization      1,147.5    986.8 
Impairment (reversal) charge  Note 7   (74.1)   38.9 
Share-based compensation expense      9.0    6.7 
Finance expense  Note 6   91.4    106.0 
Deferred tax expense      112.2    143.9 
Foreign exchange gains and other      (59.1)   (8.6)
Reclamation expense (recovery)  Note 11   6.9    (19.2)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:             
Accounts receivable and other assets      11.7    68.7 
Inventories      14.3    (91.4)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities      370.8    95.5 
Cash flow provided from operating activities      2,624.6    1,742.7 
Income taxes paid      (178.2)   (137.4)
Net cash flow provided from operating activities      2,446.4    1,605.3 
Investing:             
Additions to property, plant and equipment      (1,075.5)   (1,098.3)
Interest paid capitalized to property, plant and equipment  Note 10   (92.6)   (114.1)
Net (additions) disposals to long-term investments and other assets      (38.4)   1.7 
(Increase) decrease in restricted cash - net      (0.4)   25.3 
Interest received and other - net      17.0    18.2 
Net cash flow of continuing operations used in investing activities      (1,189.9)   (1,167.2)
Net cash flow of discontinued operations provided from investing activities  Note 16   10.0    45.0 
Financing:             
Repayment of debt  Note 10   (800.0)   (960.0)
Proceeds from issuance or drawdown of debt  Note 10   -    588.1 
Interest paid  Note 10   (35.6)   (53.2)
Payment of lease liabilities  Note 10   (12.1)   (30.2)
Funding from non-controlling interest      31.3    46.2 
Distributions paid to non-controlling interest      (40.5)   - 
Dividends paid to common shareholders  Note 12   (147.5)   (147.3)
Other - net      (1.5)   7.4 
Net cash flow used in financing activities      (1,005.9)   (549.0)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents      (1.5)   0.2 
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents      259.1    (65.7)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period      352.4    418.1 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period     $611.5   $352.4 

  

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

8

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

Consolidated Statements of Equity

(expressed in millions of United States dollars)

 

      Years ended 
      December 31,   December 31, 
      2024   2023 
Common share capital             
Balance at the beginning of the period     $4,481.6   $4,449.5 
Transfer from contributed surplus on exercise of restricted shares      4.9    5.1 
Options exercised, including cash      0.8    27.0 
Balance at the end of the period  Note 12  $4,487.3   $4,481.6 
              
Contributed surplus             
Balance at the beginning of the period     $10,646.0   $10,667.5 
Share-based compensation      9.0    6.7 
Transfer of fair value of exercised options and restricted shares      (11.0)   (28.1)
Other      (1.0)   (0.1)
Balance at the end of the period     $10,643.0   $10,646.0 
              
Accumulated deficit             
Balance at the beginning of the period     $(8,982.6)  $(9,251.6)
Dividends paid  Note 12   (147.5)   (147.3)
Net earnings attributable to common shareholders      948.8    416.3 
Balance at the end of the period     $(8,181.3)  $(8,982.6)
              
Accumulated other comprehensive loss             
Balance at the beginning of the period     $(61.3)  $(41.7)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax      (26.1)   (19.6)
Balance at the end of the period     $(87.4)  $(61.3)
Total accumulated deficit and accumulated other comprehensive loss     $(8,268.7)  $(9,043.9)
              
Total common shareholders' equity     $6,861.6   $6,083.7 
              
Non-controlling interests             
Balance at the beginning of the period     $102.0   $58.5 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests      45.2    (0.9)
Funding from non-controlling interest      32.3    44.4 
Distributions paid to non-controlling interest      (40.5)   - 
Balance at the end of the period     $139.0   $102.0 
              
Total equity     $7,000.6   $6,185.7 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

9

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

1.DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS AND NATURE OF OPERATIONS

 

Kinross Gold Corporation and its subsidiaries and joint arrangements (collectively, “Kinross” or the “Company”) are engaged in gold mining and related activities, including exploration and acquisition of gold-bearing properties, extraction and processing of gold-containing ore and reclamation of gold mining properties. Kinross Gold Corporation, the ultimate parent, is a public company incorporated and domiciled in Canada with its registered office at 25 York Street, 17th floor, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5J 2V5. Kinross’ gold production and exploration activities are carried out principally in Canada, the United States, Brazil, Chile, Mauritania and Finland. Gold is produced in the form of doré, which is shipped to refineries for final processing. Kinross also produces and sells a quantity of silver. The Company is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) and the New York Stock Exchange.

 

The consolidated financial statements of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2024 were authorized for issue in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors on February 12, 2025.

 

2.BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

These consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024 (“financial statements”) have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

These financial statements were prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost method except for certain financial assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value. The Company’s material accounting policies are presented in Note 3 and have been consistently applied in each of the periods presented other than as noted in Note 4. Significant accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions used or exercised by management in the preparation of these financial statements are presented in Note 5.

 

10

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

3.SUMMARY OF MATERIAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

i.Principles of consolidation

 

The significant mining properties and entities of Kinross are listed below. All operating activities involve gold mining and exploration. Each of the significant entities has a December 31 year-end.

 

          As at 
          December 31,   December 31, 
Entity  Property  Location   2024   2023 
Subsidiaries (Consolidated):                  
Tasiast Mauritanie Ltd. S.A.  Tasiast   Mauritania    100%   100%
Kinross Brasil Mineração S.A. (“KBM”)  Paracatu   Brazil    100%   100%
Compania Minera Mantos de Oro  La Coipa and Lobo-Marte   Chile    100%   100%
Fairbanks Gold Mining, Inc.  Fort Knox   USA    100%   100%
Peak Gold, LLC  Manh Choh   USA    70%   70%
Round Mountain Gold Corporation / KG Mining (Round Mountain) Inc.  Round Mountain   USA    100%   100%
KG Mining (Bald Mountain) Inc.  Bald Mountain   USA    100%   100%
Great Bear Resources Ltd.  Great Bear   Canada    100%   100%
Compania Minera Maricunga (“CMM”)  Maricunga   Chile    100%   100%
Echo Bay Minerals Company  Kettle River - Buckhorn   USA    100%   100%
Interest in joint venture (Equity accounted):                  
Sociedad Contractual Minera Puren  Puren   Chile    65%   65%

 

Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Company. Control exists when an investor is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with an investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. Subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date control is obtained until the date control ceases. Where the Company’s interest in a subsidiary is less than 100%, the Company recognizes non-controlling interests. All intercompany balances, transactions, income, expenses, profits and losses, including unrealized gains and losses have been eliminated on consolidation.

 

ii.Functional and presentation currency

 

The functional and presentation currency of the Company and its subsidiaries is the United States dollar.

 

Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are translated into the United States dollar as follows:

 

Monetary assets and liabilities are translated at the rates of exchange on the consolidated balance sheet date;

Non-monetary assets and liabilities are translated at historical exchange rates prevailing at each transaction date;

Revenue and expenses are translated at the exchange rate at the date of the transaction, except depreciation, depletion and amortization, which are translated at the rates of exchange applicable to the related assets, and share-based compensation expense, which is translated at the rates of exchange applicable on the date of grant of the share-based compensation; and

Exchange gains and losses on translation are included in earnings.

 

When the gain or loss on certain non-monetary items, such as long-term investments classified as and measured at FVOCI, is recognized in other comprehensive income (“OCI”), the related translation differences are also recognized in OCI.

 

11

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

iii.Business combinations

 

A business combination is a transaction or other event in which control over one or more businesses is obtained.

 

A business is defined as an integrated set of activities and assets that is capable of being conducted and managed for the purpose of providing goods and services to customers, generating investment income (such as dividends or interest) or generating other income from ordinary activities. In determining whether a particular set of activities and assets is a business, the Company assesses whether the set of assets and activities acquired includes, at a minimum, an input and a substantive process and whether the acquired set has the ability to contribute to the creation of outputs. If the integrated set of activities and assets is in the exploration and development stage, and thus, may not have outputs, the Company considers other factors to determine whether the set of activities and assets is a business. Those factors include, but are not limited to, whether the set of activities and assets:

 

·has begun planned principal activities;
·has employees, intellectual property and other inputs and processes that could be applied to those inputs to create outputs or have the ability to contribute to the creation of outputs;
·is pursuing a plan to produce outputs; and
·will be able to obtain access to customers that will purchase the outputs.

 

Not all of the above factors need to be present for a particular integrated set of activities and assets in the development stage to qualify as a business.

 

The Company also has an option to apply a ‘concentration test’ that permits a simplified assessment of whether an acquired set of activities and assets is not a business. If substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or group of similar identifiable assets, the concentration test is met, and the transaction is determined not to be a business combination.

 

If the assets acquired are not a business, the transaction is accounted for as an asset acquisition.

 

iv.Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of acquisition. Restricted cash is cash held in banks or in escrow that is not available for general corporate use. Restricted cash is to be classified as current or long-term based on the underlying instrument or obligation to which it relates. Cash and cash equivalents, and restricted cash are classified as and measured at amortized cost.

 

v.Inventories

 

Inventories consisting of metal in circuit ore, metal in-process and finished metal are valued at the lower of cost or net realizable value (“NRV”). NRV is calculated as the difference between the prevailing or long-term metal price estimates, and estimated costs to complete production into a saleable form and estimated costs to sell.

 

Metal in circuit is comprised of ore in stockpiles and ore on heap leach pads. Ore in stockpiles is coarse ore that has been extracted from the mine and is available for further processing. Costs are added to stockpiles based on the current mining cost per tonne and removed at the average cost per tonne. Costs are added to ore on the heap leach pads based on current mining costs and removed from the heap leach pads as ounces are recovered, based on the average cost per recoverable ounce of gold on the leach pad. Ore in stockpiles not expected to be processed in the next twelve months is classified as long-term.

 

The quantities of recoverable gold placed on the leach pads are reconciled by comparing the grades of ore placed on the leach pads to the quantities of gold recovered (metallurgical balancing); however, the nature of the leaching process inherently limits the ability to precisely monitor inventory levels. As a result, the metallurgical balancing process is constantly monitored and the engineering estimates are refined based on actual results over time. Variances between actual and estimated quantities resulting from changes in assumptions and estimates that do not result in write downs to NRV are accounted for on a prospective basis. The ultimate recovery of gold from a leach pad will not be known until the leaching process has concluded. In the event that the Company determines, based on engineering estimates, that a quantity of gold contained in ore on leach pads is to be recovered over a period exceeding twelve months, that portion is classified as long-term.

 

In-process inventories represent materials that are in the process of being converted to a saleable product.

 

Materials and supplies are valued at the lower of average cost and NRV.

 

12

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

Write-downs of inventory are recognized in the consolidated statement of operations in the current period. The Company reverses inventory write downs in the event that there is a subsequent increase in NRV.

 

vi.Property, plant and equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost and carried net of accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization and accumulated impairment losses. The initial cost of an asset comprises its purchase price or construction cost, any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset into operation, the estimate of reclamation and remediation costs, and, for qualifying assets, capitalized borrowing costs.

 

Costs to acquire mineral properties are capitalized and represent the property’s acquisition cost at the time it was acquired, either as an individual asset purchase or as part of a business combination.

 

Acquired or capitalized exploration and evaluation (“E&E”) costs may be included within mineral interests in development and operating properties or pre-development properties depending upon the nature of the property to which the costs relate.

 

Repairs and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. However, expenditures on major maintenance rebuilds or overhauls are capitalized when it is probable that the expenditures will extend the productive capacity or useful life of an asset.

 

(a)Asset categories

 

The Company categorizes property, plant and equipment based on the type of asset and/or the stage of operation or development of the property.

 

Land, plant and equipment includes land, mobile and stationary equipment, and refining and processing facilities for all properties regardless of their stage of development or operation.

 

Mineral interests consist of:

 

·Development and operating properties, which include capitalized development and stripping costs, cost of assets under construction, E&E costs and mineral interests for those properties currently in operation, for which development has commenced, or for which proven and probable reserves have been declared; and
·Pre-development properties, which include E&E costs and mineral interests for those properties for which development has not commenced.

 

(b)Depreciation, depletion and amortization

 

For plant and other facilities, stripping costs, reclamation and remediation costs, production stage mineral interests and plant expansion costs, the Company uses the units-of-production (“UOP”) method for determining depreciation, depletion and amortization, net of residual value. The expected useful lives used in the UOP calculations are determined based on the facts and circumstances associated with the mineral interest. The Company evaluates the proven and probable reserves at least on an annual basis and adjusts the UOP calculation to correspond with the changes in reserves. The expected useful life used in determining UOP does not exceed the estimated life of the ore body based on recoverable ounces to be mined from estimated proven and probable reserves. Any changes in estimates of useful lives are accounted for prospectively from the date of the change.

 

Stripping and other costs incurred in a pit expansion are capitalized and amortized using the UOP method based on recoverable ounces to be mined from estimated proven and probable reserves that benefited from the pit expansion.

 

Land is not depreciated.

 

Mobile and other equipment are generally depreciated, net of residual value, using the straight-line method, over the estimated useful life of the asset. Useful lives for mobile and other equipment range from 2 to 10 years, but do not exceed the related estimated mine life based on proven and probable reserves.

 

The Company reviews useful lives and estimated residual values of its property, plant and equipment annually.

 

Acquired or capitalized E&E costs and assets under construction are not depreciated. These assets are depreciated when they are ready for their intended use.

 

13

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

(c)Derecognition

 

The carrying amount of an item of property, plant and equipment is derecognized on disposal of the asset or when no future economic benefits are expected to accrue to the Company from its continued use. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition is included in the consolidated statement of operations in the period in which the asset is derecognized. The gain or loss is determined as the difference between the carrying value and the net proceeds on the sale of the assets, if any, at the time of disposal.

 

vii.Exploration and evaluation costs

 

E&E costs are those costs required to find a mineral property and determine its commercial viability. E&E costs include costs to establish an initial mineral resource and determine whether inferred mineral resources can be upgraded to measured and indicated mineral resources and whether measured and indicated mineral resources can be converted to proven and probable reserves.

 

E&E costs consist of:

 

·gathering exploration data through topographical and geological studies;
·exploratory drilling, trenching and sampling;
·determining the volume and grade of the resource;
·test work on geology, metallurgy, mining, geotechnical and environmental; and
·conducting engineering, marketing and financial studies.

 

Project costs in relation to these activities are expensed as incurred until such time as the Company expects that mineral resources will be converted to mineral reserves within a reasonable period. Thereafter, costs for the project are capitalized prospectively as capitalized E&E costs in property, plant and equipment.

 

Interest expense attributable to E&E qualifying assets is capitalized until the project demonstrates technical feasibility and commercial viability.

 

The Company also recognizes E&E costs as assets when acquired as part of a business combination, or asset purchase. These assets are recognized at acquisition cost. Acquired E&E costs consist of the price paid for:

 

·estimated potential ounces, and
·exploration properties.

 

Acquired or capitalized E&E costs for a project are classified as such until the project demonstrates technical feasibility and commercial viability. Upon demonstrating technical feasibility and commercial viability, and subject to an impairment analysis, capitalized E&E costs are transferred to capitalized development costs within property, plant and equipment. Technical feasibility and commercial viability generally coincides with the establishment of proven and probable mineral reserves; however, this determination may be impacted by management’s assessment of certain modifying factors including, legal, environmental, social and governmental factors.

 

viii.Borrowing costs

 

Borrowing costs are generally expensed as incurred except where they relate to the financing of qualifying assets that require a substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use. Qualifying assets include the cost of developing mining properties and constructing new facilities. Borrowing costs related to qualifying assets are capitalized up to the date when the asset is ready for its intended use.

 

Where funds are borrowed specifically to finance a project, the amount capitalized represents the actual borrowing costs incurred net of any investment income earned on the investment of those borrowings. Where the funds used to finance a project form part of general borrowings, the amount capitalized is calculated using a weighted average of rates applicable to relevant general borrowings of the Company during the period.

 

ix.Valuation of Long-lived Assets

 

The carrying value of property, plant and equipment is reviewed each reporting period to determine whether there is any indication of impairment or reversal of impairment. If any such indication exists, then the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated. For such non-current assets, the recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are independent of those generated from other assets or groups of assets, in which case, the individual assets are grouped together into cash generating units (“CGUs”) for impairment testing purposes.

 

14

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

If the carrying amount of the CGU or asset exceeds its recoverable amount, an impairment is considered to exist and an impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations to reduce the CGU or asset’s carrying value to its recoverable amount.

 

If the carrying amount of the CGU or asset with a previously recognized impairment loss is less than its recoverable amount, an impairment reversal is considered to exist and an impairment reversal is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations to increase the CGU or asset’s carrying value to its recoverable amount, net of any applicable depreciation, had no impairment charge been recognized previously.

 

The recoverable amount of a CGU or asset is the higher of its fair value less cost of disposal and its value in use.

 

Fair value is the amount that would be obtained from the sale of the asset in an arm’s length transaction between knowledgeable and willing parties. Fair value for mineral assets is generally determined as the present value of the estimated future cash flows expected to arise from the continued use of the asset, including any expansion prospects, and its eventual disposal, using assumptions that an independent market participant may take into account. These cash flows are discounted by an appropriate discount rate to arrive at a net present value or net asset value (“NAV”) of the asset.

 

Value in use is determined as the present value of the estimated future cash flows expected to arise from the continued use of the asset in its present form and its eventual disposal. Value in use is determined by applying assumptions specific to the Company’s continued use of the asset and does not take into account assumptions of significant future enhancements of an asset’s performance or capacity to which the Company is not committed.

 

Estimates of expected future cash flows reflect estimates of future revenues, cash costs of production and capital expenditures contained in the Company’s long-term life of mine (“LOM”) plans, which are updated for each CGU on an annual basis.

 

x.Financial instruments

 

Financial assets are classified according to their contractual cash flow characteristics and the business models under which they are held. On initial recognition, a financial asset is classified as: amortized cost, fair value through profit and loss (“FVPL”) or FVOCI.

 

A financial asset is measured at amortized cost if it meets both of the following conditions and is not designated as FVPL:

 

·it is held with the objective of collecting contractual cash flows; and
·its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

 

On initial recognition of an equity investment that is not held for trading, the Company may irrevocably elect to measure the investment at FVOCI whereby changes in the investment’s fair value (realized and unrealized) will be recognized permanently in OCI with no reclassification to profit or loss. The election is made on an investment-by-investment basis.

 

All financial assets not classified as amortized cost or FVOCI are classified as and measured at FVPL. On initial recognition, a financial asset that otherwise meets the requirements to be measured at amortized cost or FVOCI may be irrevocably designated as FVPL if doing so eliminates or significantly reduces an accounting mismatch that would otherwise arise.

 

Financial instruments are measured on initial recognition at fair value, plus, in the case of financial instruments other than those classified as FVPL, directly attributable transaction costs. Measurement of financial assets in subsequent periods depends on whether the financial asset has been classified as amortized cost, FVPL or FVOCI. Measurement of financial liabilities subsequent to initial recognition depends on whether they are classified as amortized cost or FVPL. Financial assets and financial liabilities classified as amortized cost are measured subsequent to initial recognition using the effective interest method.

 

Loss allowances for ‘expected credit losses’ are recognized on financial assets measured at amortized cost, contract assets and investments in debt instruments measured at FVOCI, but not to equity investments. A loss event is not required to have occurred before a credit loss is recognized.

 

The Company completes an assessment at each reporting period to determine whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk for financial assets such that an expected credit loss (“ECL”) should be recognized. For financial assets in which the credit risk has not increased significantly since initial recognition, the ECL is measured at an amount equal to the twelve-month expected credit loss. If the credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition, the ECL is measured at an amount equal to the expected credit losses over the lifetime of the financial asset.

 

15

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

ECLs are calculated using a probability-weighted estimate of credit losses. Credit losses are measured as the present value of the difference between the cash flows due to the entity in accordance with the contract and the cash flows that the Company expects to receive.

 

The Company has classified and measured its financial instruments as described below:

 

·Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash are classified as and measured at amortized cost.
·Accounts receivables and certain other assets are classified as and measured at amortized cost.
·Long-term investments in equity securities, where the Company cannot exert significant influence, are classified as and measured at FVOCI.
·Accounts payable and accrued liabilities and long-term debt are classified as and measured at amortized cost.
·Derivative assets and liabilities including derivative financial instruments that do not qualify as hedges, or are not designated as hedges, are classified as and measured at FVPL.

 

Derivative assets and liabilities, including derivative financial instruments that qualify and are designated as hedges, have changes in fair values recorded in OCI, net of tax, and are included in earnings when the underlying hedged transaction is completed. Any ineffective portion of a hedge relationship is recognized immediately in earnings.

 

xi.Share-based payments

 

The Company has a number of equity-settled and cash-settled share-based compensation plans under which the Company issues either equity instruments or makes cash payments based on the value of the underlying equity instrument of the Company. The Company’s share-based compensation plans are comprised of the following:

 

Restricted Share Plan: Restricted share units (“RSUs”) and Restricted performance share units (“RPSUs”) are granted under the Restricted Share Plan.

 

Restricted Share Unit Plan (Cash-Settled): Cash-settled RSUs are granted under the Restricted Share Unit Plan (Cash-Settled).

 

Currently, both RSUs and RPSUs are awarded to certain employees as a percentage of long-term incentive awards.

 

(a)In accordance with the relevant plan, RSUs are either equity or cash-settled and are recorded at fair value based on the market value of the shares at the grant date. The Company’s compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period based on the number of units estimated to vest. Management estimates the number of awards likely to vest on grant and at each reporting date up to the vesting date. The estimated forfeiture rate is adjusted for actual forfeitures in each reporting period. On vesting of equity-settled RSUs, shares are generally issued from treasury. Cash-settled RSUs are accounted for as a liability at fair value and re-measured each period based on the current market value of the underlying stock at period end, with changes in the liability recorded as compensation expense each period.

 

(b)RPSUs are equity-settled and are subject to certain vesting requirements based on performance criteria over the vesting period established by the Company. RPSUs are recorded at fair value as follows: The portion of the RPSUs related to market conditions are recorded at fair value based on the application of a Monte Carlo pricing model at the date of grant and the portion related to non-market conditions are recorded at the market value of the shares at the date of grant. The Company’s compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period based on the number of units estimated to vest. Management estimates the number of awards likely to vest on grant and at each reporting date up to the vesting date. The estimated forfeiture rate is adjusted for actual forfeitures in each reporting period. On vesting of RPSUs, shares are generally issued from treasury.

 

Deferred Share Unit Plan: Deferred share units (“DSUs”) are cash-settled and accounted for as a liability at fair value which is based on the market value of the shares at the grant date. The fair value of the liability is re-measured each period based on the current market value of the underlying stock at period end and any changes in the liability are recorded as compensation expense each period.

 

Employee Share Purchase Plan: The Company’s contribution to the employee Share Purchase Plan (“SPP”) is recorded as compensation expense on a payroll cycle basis as the employer’s obligation to contribute is incurred. The cost of the common shares purchased under the SPP are either based on the weighted average closing price of the last five trading sessions prior to the end of the period for shares issued from treasury or are based on the price paid for common shares purchased in the open market.

 

16

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

xii.Provision for reclamation and remediation

 

The Company records a liability and corresponding asset for the present value of the estimated costs of legal and constructive obligations for future site reclamation and closure activities where the liability is more likely than not to exist, and a reasonable estimate can be made of the obligation. The estimated present value of the obligation is reassessed on an annual basis or when new material information becomes available. Increases or decreases to the obligation usually arise due to changes in legal or regulatory requirements, the extent of environmental remediation required, methods of reclamation, cost estimates, or discount rates. Changes to the provision for reclamation and remediation obligations related to operating mines, which are not the result of current production of inventory, are recorded with an offsetting change to the related asset. For properties where mining activities have ceased, have a short remaining mine life, or are in reclamation, changes are recorded directly to earnings. The present value is determined based on current market assessments of the time value of money using discount rates specific to the country in which the asset or reclamation site is located and is determined as the risk-free rate of borrowing approximated by the yield on sovereign debt for that country, with a maturity approximating the timing of cash flows. The periodic unwinding of the discounted obligation is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations as a finance expense.

 

xiii.Metal sales

 

Metal sales include sales of refined gold and silver and doré, which are generally physically delivered to customers in the period in which they are produced, with their sales price based on prevailing spot market metal prices. In order to manage short-term metal price risk, the Company may enter into derivative contracts in relation to metal sales that it believes are highly likely to occur within a given period. No such contracts were outstanding as at December 31, 2024 or December 31, 2023.

 

Revenue from metal sales is recognized when control over the metal is transferred to the customer. Transfer of control generally occurs when the refined gold, silver or doré has been accepted by the customer. Once the customer has accepted the metals, the significant risks and rewards of ownership have typically been transferred and the customer is able to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from the metals. On transfer of control, revenue and related costs can be measured reliably and it is probable that the economic benefits associated with the transaction will flow to the Company as payment is received on the date of or within a few days of transfer of control.

 

xiv.Income tax

 

The income tax expense or benefit for the period consists of two components: current and deferred. Income tax expense is recognized in the consolidated statement of operations except to the extent it relates to a business combination or items recognized directly in equity.

 

Current tax is the expected tax payable or receivable on the taxable profit or loss for the year. Current tax is calculated using tax rates and laws that were enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date in each of the jurisdictions and includes any adjustments for taxes payable or recovery in respect of prior periods.

 

Deferred tax is recognized in respect of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit. Deferred tax is calculated based on the expected manner of realization or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates that are expected to apply in the year of realization or settlement based on tax rates and laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date.

 

Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognized for all taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax liabilities are recognized for taxable temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures except where the reversal of the temporary difference can be controlled, and it is probable that the difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

 

Deferred tax assets are recognized for all deductible temporary differences, carryforward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses to the extent it is probable future taxable profits will be available against which they can be utilized. The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each balance sheet date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the asset to be recovered.

 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Company has the legal right and intent to offset.

 

17

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

xv.Earnings per share

 

Earnings per share calculations are based on the weighted average number of common shares and common share equivalents issued and outstanding during the period. Basic earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing net earnings attributable to common shareholders for the period by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share amounts are calculated by dividing net earnings attributable to common shareholders for the period by the diluted weighted average shares outstanding during the period.

 

Diluted earnings per share is calculated using the treasury method. The treasury method, which assumes that outstanding stock options, warrants, RSUs and RPSUs with an average exercise price below the market price of the underlying shares, are exercised and the assumed proceeds are used to repurchase common shares of the Company at the average market price of the common shares for the period.

 

4.CHANGES IN MATERIAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

i.Changes in Material Accounting Policies

 

On January 1, 2024, the Company adopted amendments to IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements” (“IAS 1”) which clarify that the classification of liabilities as current or non-current should be based on rights that exist at the end of the reporting period and that classification is unaffected by expectations about whether an entity will exercise its right to defer settlement of a liability. For liabilities with covenants, the amendments clarify that only covenants with which an entity is required to comply on or before the reporting date affect the classification as current or non-current. The amendments did not have an impact on the Company’s financial statements and the comparative period on the date of adoption.

 

ii.Recent Accounting Pronouncements Adopted

 

On January 1, 2024, the Company adopted amendments to IFRS 16 “Leases” (“IFRS 16”) which add subsequent measurement requirements for sale and leaseback transactions, particularly those with variable lease payments. The amendments require the seller-lessee to subsequently measure lease liabilities in a way such that it does not recognize any gain or loss relating to the right of use it retains. The amendments did not have an impact on the Company’s financial statements on the date of adoption.

 

On January 1, 2024, the Company adopted amendments to IAS 7 “Statement of Cash Flows” (“IAS 7”) requiring entities to provide qualitative and quantitative information about their supplier finance arrangements. In connection with the amendments to IAS 7, the IASB also issued amendments to IFRS 7 “Financial Instruments: Disclosures” (“IFRS 7”) requiring entities to disclose whether they have accessed, or have access to, supplier finance arrangements that would provide the entity with extended payment terms or the suppliers with early payment terms. The amendments did not have an impact on the Company’s financial statements on the date of adoption.

 

iii.Recent Accounting Pronouncements Issued Not Yet Adopted

 

On August 15, 2023, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 21 “The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange” (“IAS 21”) to specify how to assess whether a currency is exchangeable and how to determine the exchange rate when it is not exchangeable. The amendments specify that a currency is exchangeable when it can be exchanged through market or exchange mechanisms that create enforceable rights and obligations without undue delay at the measurement date and the specified purpose. For non-exchangeable currencies, an entity is required to estimate the spot exchange rate as the rate that would have applied to an orderly exchange transaction between market participants at the measurement date under prevailing economic conditions. The amendments are effective on January 1, 2025 and are not expected to have an impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

On April 9, 2024, the IASB issued IFRS 18 “Presentation and Disclosure in the Financial Statements” (“IFRS 18”) replacing IAS 1. IFRS 18 introduces categories and defined subtotals in the statement of profit or loss, disclosures on management-defined performance measures, and requirements to improve the aggregation and disaggregation of information in the financial statements. As a result of IFRS 18, amendments to IAS 7 were also issued to require that entities use the operating profit subtotal as the starting point for the indirect method of reporting cash flows from operating activities and also to remove presentation alternatives for interest and dividends paid and received. Similarly, amendments to IAS 33 “Earnings per Share” were issued to permit disclosure of additional earnings per share figures using any other component of the statement of profit or loss, provided the numerator is a total or subtotal defined under IFRS 18. IFRS 18 is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2027, and is to be applied retrospectively, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently assessing the impact of the standard on its financial statements.

 

18

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

On May 30, 2024, the IASB issued narrow scope amendments to IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments” (“IFRS 9”) and IFRS 7. The amendments include the clarification of the date of initial recognition or derecognition of financial liabilities, including financial liabilities that are settled in cash using an electronic payment system. The amendments also introduce additional disclosure requirements to enhance transparency regarding investments in equity instruments designated at FVOCI and financial instruments with contingent features. The amendments are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026, with early adoption permitted and are not expected to have an impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

On December 18, 2024, the IASB issued targeted amendments to IFRS 9 and IFRS 7 to help companies better report the financial effects of nature-dependent electricity contracts. The amendments clarify the factors an entity would consider when assessing whether a renewable electricity contract qualifies for the own-use exemption under IFRS 9, as well as hedge accounting requirements for when a renewable electricity contract is designated as the hedging instrument in a cash flow hedge of forecasted sales or purchases of electricity. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2026, with early adoption permitted. The amendments shall be applied retrospectively, however prior periods need not be restated to reflect the application of the amendments. The amendments are not expected to have a significant impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

5.SIGNIFICANT JUDGMENTS, ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS

 

The preparation of the Company’s financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on management’s experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

 

The areas which require management to make significant judgments, estimates and assumptions in applying the Company’s accounting policies and determining carrying values include, but are not limited to:

 

(a)Determination of Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources

 

The information relating to the geological data on the size, depth and shape of the ore body requires complex geological judgments to interpret the data. Proven and probable mineral reserves are the economically mineable parts of the Company’s measured and indicated mineral resources demonstrated by at least a preliminary feasibility study. The Company estimates its proven and probable mineral reserves and measured and indicated and inferred mineral resources based on information compiled by appropriately qualified persons. The estimation of future cash flows related to proven and probable mineral reserves is based upon factors such as estimates of commodity prices, foreign exchange rates, future capital requirements and production costs along with geological assumptions and judgments made in estimating the size and grade of the ore body. Changes in the proven and probable mineral reserves or measured and indicated and inferred mineral resources estimates may impact the carrying value of property, plant and equipment, reclamation and remediation obligations, recognition of deferred tax amounts and depreciation, depletion and amortization.

 

(b)Valuation of long-lived assets

 

The assessment of the fair values of long-lived assets for potential impairment or reversal of impairment, require the use of estimates and assumptions for recoverable production, future capital requirements and operating performance, as contained in the Company’s LOM plans, as well as future and long-term commodity prices, discount rates and foreign exchange rates. Changes in any of the assumptions or estimates used in determining the fair value of other long-lived assets could impact the impairment analysis.

 

The Company’s LOM plans are based on detailed research, analysis and modeling to maximize the NAV of each CGU. As such, these plans consider the optimal level of investment, overall production levels and sequence of extraction, taking into account all relevant characteristics of the ore body, including waste to ore ratios, ore grades, haul distances, chemical and metallurgical properties impacting process recoveries, capacities of available extraction, haulage and processing equipment, and other factors. Therefore, the LOM plan is an appropriate basis for forecasting production output in each future year and the related production costs and capital expenditures. The LOM plans have been determined using cash flow projections from financial budgets approved by senior management.

 

19

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

Projected future revenues reflect the forecast future production levels at each of the Company’s CGUs as detailed in the LOM plans. These forecasts may include the production of mineralized material that does not currently qualify for inclusion in a mineral reserve or mineral resource classification. This is consistent with the methodology used to measure value beyond proven and probable reserves when allocating the purchase price of a business combination to acquired mining assets. The fair value arrived at, as described above, is the Company’s estimate of fair value for accounting purposes and is not a “preliminary assessment”, as defined in Canadian Securities Administrators’ National Instrument 43-101 “Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects”.

 

Projected future revenues also reflect the Company’s estimates of future metals prices, which are determined based on current prices, forward prices and forecasts of future prices prepared by industry analysts. These estimates often differ from current price levels, but the methodology used is consistent with how a market participant would assess future metals prices.

 

The Company’s estimates of future cash costs of production and capital expenditures are based on the LOM plans for each CGU. Costs incurred in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are translated to U.S. dollar equivalents based on long-term forecasts of foreign exchange rates, on a currency by currency basis, obtained from independent sources of economic data. Oil prices are a significant component of cash costs of production and are estimated based on the current price, forward prices, and forecasts of future prices from third party sources.

 

The discount rate applied to present value the net future cash flows is based on a real weighted average cost of capital by country to account for geopolitical risk.

 

(c)Inventories

 

Expenditures incurred, and depreciation, depletion and amortization of assets used in mining and processing activities are deferred and accumulated as the cost of ore in stockpiles, ore on leach pads, in-process and finished metal inventories. These deferred amounts are carried at the lower of average cost or NRV. Write-downs, and subsequent reversals thereof, of ore in stockpiles, ore on leach pads, in-process and finished metal inventories resulting from NRV impairments are reported as a component of current period costs. The primary factors that influence the need to record write-downs and related reversals include prevailing and long-term metal prices and prevailing costs for production inputs such as labour, fuel and energy, materials and supplies, as well as realized ore grades and actual production levels.

 

Costs are attributed to the leach pads based on current mining costs, including applicable depreciation, depletion and amortization relating to mining operations incurred up to the point of placing the ore on the pad. Costs are removed from the leach pad based on the average cost per recoverable ounce of gold on the leach pad as the gold is recovered. Estimates of recoverable gold on the leach pads are calculated from the quantities of ore placed on the pads, the grade of ore placed on the leach pads and an estimated percentage of recovery. Timing and ultimate actual recovery of gold contained on leach pads can vary significantly from the estimates. The quantities of recoverable gold placed on the leach pads are reconciled to the quantities of gold actually recovered (metallurgical balancing), by comparing the grades of ore placed on the leach pads to actual ounces recovered. The nature of the leaching process inherently limits the ability to precisely monitor inventory levels. As a result, the metallurgical balancing process is constantly monitored and the engineering estimates are refined based on actual results as well as for changes to the mine plan over time. The ultimate actual recovery of gold from a pad will not be known until the leaching process is completed.

 

The allocation of costs to ore in stockpiles, ore on leach pads and in-process inventories and the determination of NRV involve the use of estimates. There is a high degree of judgment in estimating future costs, future production levels, forecasted usage of supplies inventory, proven and probable reserves estimates, gold and silver prices, and the ultimate estimated recovery for ore on leach pads. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ significantly from estimates used in the determination of the carrying value of inventories.

 

(d)Provision for reclamation and remediation

 

The Company assesses its provision for reclamation and remediation on an annual basis or when new material information becomes available. Mining and exploration activities are subject to various laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment. In general, these laws and regulations are continually changing and the Company has made, and intends to make in the future, expenditures to comply with such laws and regulations. Accounting for reclamation and remediation obligations requires management to make estimates of the future costs the Company will incur to complete the reclamation and remediation work required to comply with existing laws and regulations at each mining operation. Actual costs incurred may differ from those amounts estimated. Also, future changes to environmental laws and regulations could change the extent of reclamation and remediation work required to be performed by the Company. Changes in future costs could materially impact the amounts charged to operations for reclamation and remediation. The provision represents management’s best estimate of the present value of the future reclamation and remediation obligation. The actual future expenditures may differ from the amounts currently provided.

 

20

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

(e)Taxes

 

The Company is subject to income taxes in numerous jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining the provision for income taxes, due to the complexity of legislation. There are many transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain during the ordinary course of business.

 

The Company recognizes the deferred tax benefit related to deferred income and resource tax assets to the extent recovery is probable. Assessing the recoverability of deferred income tax assets requires management to make estimates of future taxable profit. To the extent that future cash flows and taxable profit differ significantly from estimates, the ability of the Company to realize the net deferred tax assets recorded at the balance sheet date could be impacted. In addition, future changes in tax laws could limit the ability of the Company to obtain tax deductions in future periods from deferred income and resource tax assets.

 

(f)Contingencies

 

Due to the size, complexity and nature of the Company’s operations, various legal and tax matters are outstanding from time to time. Contingencies can be possible assets or liabilities arising from past events which, by their nature, will only be resolved when one or more future events not wholly within our control occur or fail to occur. The assessment of such contingencies involves the use of significant judgment and estimates. In the event that management’s estimate of the future resolution of these matters changes, the Company will recognize the effects of the changes in its consolidated financial statements on the date such changes occur.

 

6.CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENT DETAILS

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

i.Cash and cash equivalents:

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Cash  $281.6   $198.4 
Short-term deposits   329.9    154.0 
   $611.5   $352.4 

 

ii.Accounts receivable and prepaid assets:

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Deferred payment consideration(a)  $100.0   $107.9 
Receivables   52.6    58.5 
VAT receivables   44.6    44.7 
Prepaid expenses   43.4    43.1 
Deposits   16.7    14.5 
   $257.3   $268.7 

 

(a) See Note 16.

 

21

 

 

KINROSS GOLD CORPORATION

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

iii.Inventories:

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Ore in stockpiles(a)  $512.3   $469.6 
Ore on leach pads(b)(c)   708.5    701.3 
In-process   186.9    139.5 
Finished metal   19.4    17.3 
Materials and supplies   374.5    367.9 
    1,801.6    1,695.6 
Long-term portion of ore in stockpiles and ore on leach pads(a)(b)(c)   (558.4)   (542.6)
   $1,243.2   $1,153.0 

 

(a)Ore in stockpiles relates to the Company’s operating mines. Material not scheduled for processing within the next 12 months is included in other long-term assets. See Note 6v.
(b)Ore on leach pads relates to the Company's Bald Mountain, Fort Knox, and Round Mountain mines. Based on current mine plans, the Company expects to place the last tonne of ore on its leach pads at Bald Mountain in 2027 and at Round Mountain and Fort Knox in 2028. Material not scheduled for processing within the next 12 months is included in other long-term assets. See Note 6v.
(c)During the year ended December 31, 2023, an impairment charge to inventories was recorded. See Note 7ii.

 

iv.Property, plant and equipment:

 

       Mineral Interests     
   Land, plant and equipment(a)   Development and operating properties(b)   Pre-development properties(c)   Total 
Cost                    
Balance at January 1, 2024  $10,138.6   $8,853.4   $1,492.0   $20,484.0 
Additions   442.2    695.2    22.6    1,160.0 
Capitalized interest   13.5    19.1    55.6    88.2 
Disposals   (64.7)   (34.2)   -    (98.9)
Change in reclamation and remediation obligations(d)   -    53.1    -    53.1 
Transfers and other   51.9    (52.2)   -    (0.3)
Balance at December 31, 2024   10,581.5    9,534.4    1,570.2    21,686.1 
                     
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, amortization and reversal of impairment charge                    
Balance at January 1, 2024  $(6,652.1)  $(5,868.7)  $-   $(12,520.8)
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   (658.5)   (703.9)   -    (1,362.4)
Reversal of impairment charge(e)   57.4    16.7    -    74.1 
Disposals   55.2    36.4    -    91.6 
Balance at December 31, 2024   (7,198.0)   (6,519.5)   -    (13,717.5)
                     
Net book value  $3,383.5   $3,014.9   $1,570.2   $7,968.6 
                     
Amount included above as at December 31, 2024:                    
Assets under construction  $276.3   $305.9   $44.1   $626.3 
Assets not being depreciated(f)  $543.2   $568.6   $1,570.2   $2,682.0 

 

(a)Additions for the year ended December 31, 2024 include $1.9 million of right-of-use (“ROU”) assets for lease arrangements entered into. Depreciation, depletion and amortization during the year ended December 31, 2024 includes depreciation for ROU assets of $12.6 million. The net book value of property, plant and equipment includes ROU assets with an aggregate net book value of $21.0 million as at December 31, 2024.
(b)As at December 31, 2024, the significant development and operating properties are Fort Knox (including Manh Choh), Round Mountain, Bald Mountain, Paracatu, Tasiast, La Coipa, and Lobo-Marte.
(c)As at December 31, 2024, the significant pre-development properties includes $1,564.4 million for Great Bear.
(d)See Note 11.
(e)During the year ended December 31, 2024, an impairment reversal of $74.1 million was recorded at Round Mountain, entirely related to property, plant and equipment. See Note 7i.
(f)Assets not being depreciated relate to land, capitalized E&E costs, assets under construction, which relate to expansion projects, and other assets that are in various stages of being readied for use.

 

22

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

       Mineral Interests     
       Development and         
   Land, plant and   operating   Pre-development     
   equipment(a)   properties(b)   properties(c)   Total 
Cost                        
Balance at January 1, 2023  $9,515.2    $8,222.6   $1,402.9   $19,140.7 
Additions   677.5    532.7    22.9    1,233.1 
Capitalized interest   23.3    19.4    66.2    108.9 
Disposals   (110.2)   (7.7)   -    (117.9)
Change in reclamation and remediation obligations(d)   -    102.3    -    102.3 
Transfers and other   32.8    (15.9)   -    16.9 
Balance at December 31, 2023   10,138.6    8,853.4    1,492.0    20,484.0 
                     
Accumulated depreciation, depletion, and amortization                    
Balance at January 1, 2023  $(6,165.5)   $(5,233.8)  $-   $(11,399.3)
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   (589.3)   (634.9)   -    (1,224.2)
Disposals   102.7    -    -    102.7 
Balance at December 31, 2023   (6,652.1)   (5,868.7)   -    (12,520.8)
                     
Net book value  $3,486.5   $2,984.7   $1,492.0   $7,963.2 
                     
Amount included above as at December 31, 2023:                    
Assets under construction  $542.0   $267.4   $21.7   $831.1 
Assets not being depreciated(e)  $806.6   $683.9   $1,492.0   $2,982.5 

 

(a)Additions for the year ended December 31, 2023 include $7.9 million of ROU assets for lease arrangements entered into. Depreciation, depletion and amortization during the year ended December 31, 2023 includes depreciation for ROU assets of $14.3 million. The net book value of property, plant and equipment includes ROU assets with an aggregate net book value of $31.7 million as at December 31, 2023.
(b)As at December 31, 2023, the significant development and operating properties are Fort Knox (including Manh Choh), Round Mountain, Bald Mountain, Paracatu, Tasiast, La Coipa, and Lobo-Marte.
(c)As at December 31, 2023, the significant pre-development properties includes $1,492.0 million for Great Bear.
(d)See Note 11.
(e)Assets not being depreciated relate to land, capitalized E&E costs, assets under construction, which relate to expansion projects, and other assets that are in various stages of being readied for use.

 

Capitalized interest primarily relates to qualifying capital expenditures at Great Bear, Tasiast and Fort Knox, including Manh Choh, and had an annualized weighted average borrowing rate of 6.26% for the year ended December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 – 6.56%).

 

At December 31, 2024, $1,661.8 million (December 31, 2023 - $1,569.7 million) of E&E assets were included in mineral interests.

 

E&E costs during the year were recognized as follows:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Capitalized E&E costs(a)  $92.1   $93.4 
Expensed E&E costs(b)   166.4    158.9 
   $258.5   $252.3 

 

(a)Capitalized E&E costs are included in investing cash flows. During the year ended December 31, 2024, capitalized E&E costs of $78.2 million (year ended December 31, 2023 - $89.2 million) were related to pre-development properties, of which $55.6 million (year ended December 31, 2023 - $66.3 million) represents capitalized interest.
(b)Expensed E&E costs are included in operating cash flows. During the year ended December 31, 2024, expensed E&E costs of $61.1 million (year ended December 31, 2023 - $68.5 million) were related to pre-development properties.

 

23

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

v.Other long-term assets:

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Long-term portion of ore in stockpiles and ore on leach pads(a)  $558.4   $542.6 
Long-term receivables   75.5    75.4 
Advances for the purchase of capital equipment   46.6    39.5 
Investment in joint venture - Puren(b)   13.7    6.5 
Other   18.9    46.6 
   $713.1   $710.6 

 

(a)Long-term portion of ore in stockpiles and ore on leach pads represents material not scheduled for processing within the next 12 months. As at December 31, 2024, long-term ore in stockpiles was at the Company’s Paracatu, Tasiast and La Coipa mines, and long-term ore on leach pads was at the Company’s Fort Knox and Round Mountain mines.
(b)The Company’s Puren joint venture investment is accounted for under the equity method. There are no publicly quoted market prices for Puren.

 

vi.Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Trade payables  $83.9   $113.7 
Accrued liabilities(a)   303.0    283.1 
Employee related accrued liabilities   156.1    134.7 
   $543.0   $531.5 

 

(a)Includes accrued interest payable of $31.1 million as at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 - $36.3 million). See Note 10iv.

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations

 

vii.Other operating expense:

 

    Years ended December 31,  
    2024     2023  
Other operating expense   $ 14.0     $ 64.5  

 

Other operating expense for the year ended December 31, 2024 includes reclamation expense (recovery) at closed mines or mines that have a short remaining mine life of $6.9 million (year ended December 31, 2023 – $(19.2) million) and other operating expenses related to non-operating assets of $8.5 million (year ended December 31, 2023 - $46.8 million).

 

viii.Finance expense:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Interest expense, including accretion of debt and lease liabilities(a)  $(50.5)  $(69.0)
Accretion of reclamation and remediation obligations   (40.9)   (37.0)
   $(91.4)  $(106.0)

 

(a)During the year ended December 31, 2024, $88.2 million of interest was capitalized to property, plant and equipment (year ended December 31, 2023 - $108.9 million). See Note 6iv.

 

Total interest paid, including interest capitalized, during the year ended December 31, 2024 was $128.2 million (year ended December 31, 2023 - $167.3 million). See Note 10iv.

 

24

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

ix.Employee benefits expenses:

 

The following employee benefits expenses are included in production cost of sales, general and administrative, and exploration and business development expenses:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Salaries, short-term incentives, and other benefits  $670.1   $640.8 
Share-based payments   30.2    18.9 
Other   19.4    15.1 
   $719.7   $674.8 

 

7. IMPAIRMENT (REVERSAL) CHARGE

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Property, plant and equipment (i)  $(74.1)  $- 
Inventories (ii)   -    38.9 
   $(74.1)  $38.9 

 

i.Property, plant and equipment

 

The increase in the Company’s future gold price estimates was identified as an indicator of impairment reversal at September 30, 2024 and an assessment was performed to determine the recoverable amounts of the Round Mountain CGU and the Lobo-Marte CGU. The Company recorded an impairment reversal of $74.1 million on September 30, 2024, related entirely to property, plant and equipment at Round Mountain, as the recoverable amount was determined to be greater than the carrying amount. The reversal was limited to the carrying value that would have been determined, net of any applicable depreciation, had no impairment charge been previously recognized, and represents the full reversal of the impairment charge previously recorded. The tax impact of the impairment reversal at Round Mountain was an income tax expense of $0.7 million. After giving effect to the impairment reversal, the carrying value of Round Mountain was $464.5 million as at September 30, 2024. For Lobo-Marte, the recoverable amount was not determined to be greater than the carrying amount, and as such, no impairment reversal was recognized.

 

Key assumptions used in determining the recoverable amounts of Round Mountain and Lobo-Marte included estimated 2024, 2025, 2026 and long-term gold prices of $2,300, $2,300, $2,200 and $2,000 per ounce, respectively, and estimated 2024, 2025, 2026 and long-term oil prices of $80, $70, $70 and $70 per barrel, respectively. The discount rates applied to present value the net future cash flows, based on real weighted average costs of capital, were 5.02% for Round Mountain and 10.40% for Lobo-Marte. For the previously recorded impairment charge at Round Mountain in 2022, estimated 2023, 2024, 2025 and long-term gold prices of $1,700, $1,700, $1,700 and $1,600 per ounce, respectively, and a discount rate of 5.20% were used.

 

ii.Inventories

 

During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recognized an impairment charge of $38.9 million related to a reduction in the estimate of recoverable ounces on the Fort Knox heap leach pads due to changes in estimated recovery rates. The related income tax recovery of $3.1 million was recorded in income tax expense.

 

8.FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT

 

i.Recurring fair value measurement:

 

The Company categorizes each of its fair value measurements in accordance with a fair value hierarchy. The fair value hierarchy establishes three levels to classify the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. Level 1 inputs are quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs are quoted prices in markets that are not active, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (for example, interest rate and yield curves observable at commonly quoted intervals, forward pricing curves used to value currency and commodity contracts and volatility measurements used to value option contracts), or inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data or other means. Level 3 inputs are unobservable (supported by little or no market activity). The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to Level 1 inputs and the lowest priority to Level 3 inputs.

 

25

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

For financial instruments that are recognized at fair value on a recurring basis, the Company determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing their classification (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.

 

Assets (liabilities) measured at fair value on a recurring basis as at December 31, 2024 include:

 

   Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Aggregate
Fair Value
 
Equity investments at FVOCI  $51.9   $-   $-   $51.9 
Derivative contracts:                    
Foreign currency forward and collar contracts   -    (17.7)   -    (17.7)
Energy swap contracts   -    1.8    -    1.8 
Other   -    1.4    -    1.4 
   $51.9   $(14.5)  $-   $37.4 

 

During the year ended December 31, 2024, there were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements, and no transfers into or out of Level 3 fair value measurements.

 

The valuation techniques that are used to measure fair value are as follows:

 

Equity investments at FVOCI:

 

Equity investments at FVOCI include shares in publicly traded companies listed on a stock exchange. The fair value of equity investments at FVOCI for shares in publicly traded companies is determined based on a market approach reflecting the closing price of each particular security at the consolidated balance sheet date. The closing price is a quoted market price obtained from the exchange that is the principal active market for the particular security, and therefore these equity instruments are classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

Derivative contracts:

 

The Company’s derivative contracts are valued using pricing models and the Company generally uses similar models to value similar instruments. Such pricing models require a variety of inputs, including contractual cash flows, quoted market prices, applicable yield curves and credit spreads. The fair value of derivative contracts is based on quoted market prices for comparable contracts and represents the amount the Company would have received from, or paid to, a counterparty to unwind the contract at the quoted market rates in effect at the consolidated balance sheet date and therefore derivative contracts are classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

ii.Fair value measurements related to non-financial assets:

 

The Company recorded a reversal of a previously recorded impairment charge related to the property, plant and equipment at Round Mountain at September 30, 2024, mainly due to changes in the estimates of future gold prices used to determine the recoverable amount of the Round Mountain CGU. The recoverable amount was determined on a fair value less cost of disposal basis using certain unobservable assumptions and as a result was classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. See Note 7i.

 

iii.Fair value of financial assets and liabilities not measured and recognized at fair value:

 

Cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, and accounts payable and accrued liabilities are measured at amortized cost. Carrying values for these financial instruments approximate their fair values due to their short-term maturities.

 

Long-term debt is measured at amortized cost. The fair value of long-term debt is primarily measured using market determined variables, and therefore was classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. See Note 10.

 

26

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

9.CAPITAL AND FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

 

The Company manages its capital to ensure that it will be able to continue to meet its financial and operational strategies and obligations, while maximizing the return to shareholders through the optimization of debt and equity financing. The Board of Directors has established a number of quantitative measures related to the management of capital. Management continuously monitors its capital position and periodically reports to the Board of Directors.

 

The Company’s operations are sensitive to changes in commodity prices, foreign currency exchange and interest rates. The Company manages its exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and energy prices by periodically entering into derivative contracts in accordance with the formal risk management policy approved by the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company’s practice is to not hedge metal sales. However, in certain circumstances the Company may use derivative contracts to hedge against the risk of falling prices for a portion of its forecasted metal sales. The Company may also assume derivative contracts as part of a business acquisition, or they may be required under financing arrangements.

 

All of the Company’s hedges are cash flow hedges. The Company applies hedge accounting whenever hedging relationships exist and have been documented.

 

i.Capital management

 

The Company’s objectives when managing capital are to:

 

· Ensure the Company has sufficient cash available to support the mining, exploration, and other areas of the business in any gold price environment;
· Ensure the Company has the capital and capacity to support a long-term growth strategy;
· Provide investors with a superior rate of return on their invested capital;
· Ensure compliance with all bank covenant ratios; and
· Minimize counterparty credit risk.

 

The Company adjusts its capital structure based on changes in forecasted economic conditions and based on its long-term strategic business plan. The Company has the ability to adjust its capital structure by issuing new equity, drawing on existing credit facilities, issuing new debt, and selling or acquiring assets. The Company can also control how much capital is returned to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks.

 

The Company is not subject to any externally imposed capital requirements.

 

The Company’s quantitative capital management objectives are largely driven by the requirements under its debt agreements as well as a target total debt to total debt and common shareholders’ equity ratio as noted in the table below:

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Long-term debt  $1,235.5   $2,232.6 
Current portion of long-term debt   199.9    - 
Total debt  $1,435.4   $2,232.6 
Common shareholders' equity  $6,861.6   $6,083.7 
Total debt / total debt and common shareholders' equity ratio   17.3%   26.8%
Company target   0 – 30%   0 – 30%

 

ii.Gold and silver price risk management

 

In order to manage short-term metal price risk, the Company may enter into derivative contracts in relation to metal sales that it believes are highly likely to occur within a given period. No such contracts were outstanding as at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023.

 

iii.Currency risk management

 

The Company is primarily exposed to currency fluctuations relative to the U.S. dollar on expenditures that are denominated in Canadian dollars, Brazilian reais, Chilean pesos, and Mauritanian ouguiya. This risk is reduced, from time to time, through the use of foreign currency hedging contracts to lock in the exchange rates on future non-U.S. currency denominated cash outflows. The Company has entered into hedging contracts to purchase Canadian dollars, Chilean pesos, and Brazilian reais, as part of this risk management strategy. The Company is also exposed to the impact of currency fluctuations on its monetary assets and liabilities. The Company may from time to time manage the exposure on the net monetary items.

 

27

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

As at December 31, 2024, with other variables unchanged, the following represents the effect of movements in foreign currency exchange rates on the Company's net working capital, on earnings before taxes from a 10% change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the Brazilian real, Canadian dollar, Chilean peso, Mauritanian ouguiya and other foreign currencies.

 

 

       10% strengthening in   10% weakening in 
       U.S. dollar   U.S. dollar 
   Foreign currency net   Effect on earnings before   Effect on earnings before 
   working capital   taxes, gain (loss)(a)   taxes, gain (loss)(a) 
Brazilian reais  $(188.9)  $17.2   $(21.0)
Canadian dollars  $(63.1)  $5.7   $(7.0)
Chilean pesos  $(47.9)  $4.4   $(5.6)
Mauritanian ouguiya  $(17.6)  $(0.4)  $0.5 
Other (b)  $(7.6)  $0.7   $(0.8)

 

(a)As described in Note 3ii, the Company translates its monetary assets and liabilities into U.S. dollars at the rates of exchange at the consolidated balance sheet dates. Gains and losses on translation of foreign currencies are included in earnings.
(b)Includes Euro, British pound, Australian dollar and South African rand.

 

As at December 31, 2024, with other variables unchanged, the following represents the effect of the Company's foreign currency hedging contracts on OCI before taxes from a 10% change in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar against the Canadian dollar, Brazilian real, and Chilean peso.

 

   10% strengthening in    10% weakening in  
   U.S. dollar    U.S. dollar  
   Effect on OCI before    Effect on OCI before  
   taxes, (loss)(a)    taxes, gain(a)  
Canadian dollar  $ (16.8)   $ 20.5  
Brazilian real  $ (11.8)   $ 9.0  
Chilean peso  $ (4.0)   $ 3.2  

 

(a)Upon maturity of these contracts, the amounts in OCI before taxes will reverse against hedged items that the contracts relate to, which may be to earnings or property, plant and equipment.

 

iv.Energy price risk management

 

The Company is exposed to changes in energy prices through its consumption of diesel and other fuels, and the price of electricity in some electricity supply contracts. The Company entered into energy swap contracts that partially protect against the risk of fuel price increases. Fuel is consumed in the operation of mobile equipment and electricity generation.

 

As at December 31, 2024, with other variables unchanged, the following represents the effect of the Company's energy swap contracts on OCI before taxes from a 10% change in WTI oil prices.

 

   10% increase in  10% decrease in  
   price  price  
   Effect on OCI before  Effect on OCI before  
   taxes, gain(a)  taxes, (loss)(a)  
WTI oil  $ 9.4  $ (9.5 )

 

(a)Upon maturity of these contracts, the amounts in OCI before taxes will reverse against hedged items that the contracts relate to, which may be to earnings or property, plant and equipment.

 

28

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

v.Liquidity risk management

 

The Company manages liquidity risk by maintaining adequate cash and cash equivalent balances (December 31, 2024 – $611.5 million in aggregate), by utilizing its lines of credit and by monitoring developments in the capital markets. The Company continuously monitors and reviews both actual and forecasted cash flows. The contractual cash flow requirements for financial liabilities as at December 31, 2024 are as follows:

 

       2025   2026-2029   2030+ 
   Total   Within 1 year(b)   2 to 5 years   More than 5 years 
Debt(a)  $1,450.0   $200.0   $500.0   $750.0 

 

(a)Includes the current and non-current face value of the senior notes and term loan.
(b)On February 10, 2025, the Company repaid the remaining $200.0 million outstanding balance on the term loan.

 

All other current liabilities are due to be settled within one year.

 

vi.Credit risk management

 

Credit risk relates to cash and cash equivalents, receivables and derivative contracts and arises from the possibility that any counterparty to an instrument fails to perform. For cash and cash equivalents, trade receivables and derivative contracts, the Company generally transacts with highly-rated counterparties. As at December 31, 2024, the carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, accounts receivable, derivative assets, deferred payment consideration and long-term receivables, net of any allowances for losses, represents the Company’s maximum exposure to credit risk.

 

10.LONG-TERM DEBT AND CREDIT FACILITIES

 

       December 31, 2024  December 31, 2023 
   Interest Rates    Nominal
Amount
   Deferred
Financing
Costs(a)
   Carrying
Amount
   Fair
Value(b)
   Carrying
Amount(a)
   Fair
Value(b)
 
Senior notes (i)  4.50%-6.875%   $1,243.4  $(7.9) $1,235.5  $1,272.7  $1,233.5  $1,272.3 
Term loan (ii)  SOFR plus 1.25%    200.0   (0.1)  199.9   200.0   999.1   1,000.0 
Total long-term and current debt      $1,443.4  $(8.0) $1,435.4  $1,472.7  $2,232.6  $2,272.3 
Less: current portion       (200.0)  0.1   (199.9)  (200.0)  -   - 
Long-term debt and credit facility      $1,243.4  $(7.9) $1,235.5  $1,272.7  $2,232.6  $2,272.3 

 

(a)Includes transaction costs on the senior notes and term loan.
(b)The fair value of the senior notes is primarily determined using quoted market determined variables. See Note 8iii.

 

Scheduled debt repayments

 

   2025  2026  2027  2028  2029  2030 and
thereafter
  Total 
Senior notes (i)  $-  $-  $500.0  $-  $-  $750.0  $1,250.0 
Term Loan (ii)   200.0   -   -   -   -   -   200.0 
Total debt payable  $200.0  $-  $500.0  $-  $-  $750.0  $1,450.0 

 

i.Senior notes

 

The Company’s senior notes consist of $500.0 million principal amount of 4.50% notes due in 2027, $500.0 million principal amount of 6.250% notes due in 2033 and $250.0 million principal amount of 6.875% notes due in 2041.

 

The senior notes (collectively, the “notes”) pay interest semi-annually. Except as noted below, the notes are redeemable by the Company, in whole or part, for cash at any time prior to maturity, at a redemption price equal to the greater of 100% of the principal amount or the sum of the present value of the remaining scheduled principal and interest payments on the notes discounted at the applicable treasury rate, as defined in the indentures, plus a premium of between 45 and 50 basis points, plus accrued interest, if any. Within three months of maturity of the notes due in 2027 and 2033, and within six months of maturity of the notes due in 2041, the Company can redeem the notes at 100% of the principal amount plus accrued interest, if any. In addition, the Company is required to make an offer to repurchase the notes prior to maturity upon certain fundamental changes at a repurchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount of the notes plus accrued and unpaid interest to the repurchase date, if any.

 

29

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

ii.Revolving credit facility and term loan

 

As at December 31, 2024, the Company had utilized $6.9 million (December 31, 2023 - $6.8 million) of its $1,500.0 million revolving credit facility, entirely for letters of credit.

 

On October 28, 2024, the Company amended its $1,500 million revolving credit facility to extend the maturity by two years to October 2029, restoring a five-year term.

 

The term loan, maturing on March 7, 2025, has no mandatory amortization payments and can be repaid at any time prior to maturity. During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company repaid $800.0 million of the outstanding balance on the term loan, with $200.0 million in principal outstanding as of December 31, 2024. On February 10, 2025, the Company repaid the remaining $200.0 million of the outstanding balance on the term loan.

 

Loan interest on the revolving credit facility and term loan is variable and is dependent on the Company’s credit rating. Based on the Company’s credit rating at December 31, 2024, interest charges and fees are as follows:

 

Type of credit    
Revolving credit facility   SOFR plus 1.45%
Term loan   SOFR plus 1.25%
Letters of credit   0.967-1.45%
Standby fee applicable to unused availability   0.29%

 

The revolving credit facility agreement and the term loan agreement contain various covenants including limits on indebtedness, asset sales and liens. The Company was in compliance with its financial covenant in the credit agreements as at December 31, 2024.

 

iii.Other

 

Effective July 1, 2024, the Company entered into an amendment to increase the Letter of Credit guarantee facility with Export Development Canada (“EDC”) from $300.0 million to $400.0 million and extended the maturity date from June 30, 2024 to June 30, 2026. Total fees related to letters of credit under this facility were 0.75% of the utilized amount. As at December 31, 2024, $247.2 million (December 31, 2023 - $235.7 million) was utilized under this facility.

 

In addition, as at December 31, 2024, the Company had $738.9 million (December 31, 2023 - $617.9 million) in letters of credit and surety bonds outstanding in respect of its operations in Brazil, Mauritania, the United States and Chile, as well as its discontinued operations in Ghana, which have been issued pursuant to arrangements with certain international banks and insurance companies and incur average fees of approximately 0.63%.

 

iv.Changes in liabilities arising from financing activities

 

   Total current   Lease   Accrued interest     
   and long-term debt   liabilities   payable(a)   Total 
Balance as at January 1, 2024  $2,232.6   $27.6   $36.3   $2,296.5 
Changes from financing cash flows                    
Debt repayments   (800.0)   -    -    (800.0)
Interest paid   -    -    (35.6)   (35.6)
Payment of lease liabilities   -    (12.1)   -    (12.1)
    1,432.6    15.5    0.7    1,448.8 
Other changes                    
Interest expense and accretion(b)  $-   $1.4   $49.1   $50.5 
Capitalized interest(c)   -    -    88.2    88.2 
Capitalized interest paid   -    -    (92.6)   (92.6)
Additions of lease liabilities   -    1.9    -    1.9 
Other   2.8    (1.7)   (14.3)   (13.2)
    2.8    1.6    30.4    34.8 
Balance as at December 31, 2024  $1,435.4   $17.1   $31.1   $1,483.6 

 

30

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

   Total current   Lease   Accrued interest     
   and long-term debt   liabilities   payable(a)   Total 
Balance as at January 1, 2023  $2,592.9   $47.6   $41.9   $2,682.4 
Changes from financing cash flows                    
Debt issuance and drawdowns   588.1    -    -    588.1 
Debt repayments   (960.0)   -    -    (960.0)
Interest paid   -    -    (53.2)   (53.2)
Payment of lease liabilities   -    (30.2)   -    (30.2)
    2,221.0    17.4    (11.3)   2,227.1 
Other changes                    
Interest expense and accretion(b)  $-   $2.1   $66.9   $69.0 
Capitalized interest(c)   -    -    108.9    108.9 
Capitalized interest paid   -    -    (114.1)   (114.1)
Additions of lease liabilities   -    7.9    -    7.9 
Other   11.6    0.2    (14.1)   (2.3)
    11.6    10.2    47.6    69.4 
Balance as at December 31, 2023  $2,232.6   $27.6   $36.3   $2,296.5 

 

(a)Included in Accounts payable and accrued liabilities. See Note 6vi.
(b)Included in Finance expense. See Note 6viii.
(c)Included in Property, plant and equipment. See Note 6iv.

 

11.PROVISIONS

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Reclamation and remediation obligations (i)  $948.6   $876.9 
Other   55.4    61.8 
Total provisions and current provisions  $1,004.0   $938.7 
Less: current portion   (62.5)   (48.8)
Non-current portion  $941.5   $889.9 

 

i.Reclamation and remediation obligations

 

   December 31,   December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Balance at the beginning of the period  $876.9   $779.0 
Change in estimate   60.0    83.1 
Accretion   40.9    37.0 
Payments   (29.2)   (22.2)
Balance at the end of the period  $948.6   $876.9 
Less: current portion   (55.7)   (43.4)
Non-current portion  $892.9   $833.5 

 

The Company conducts its operations so as to protect the public health and the environment, and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations governing protection of the environment. Reclamation and remediation obligations arise throughout the life of each mine. The Company estimates future reclamation costs based on the level of current mining activity and estimates of costs required to fulfill the Company’s future obligations. The above table details the items that affect the reclamation and remediation obligations.

 

Included in other operating expense for the year ended December 31, 2024 is a $6.9 million expense (year ended December 31, 2023 - $19.2 million recovery) reflecting revised estimated fair values of costs that support the reclamation and remediation obligations for properties that have been closed, or are nearing the end of their operating life. The majority of the expenditures are expected to occur between 2025 and 2047. The discount rates used in estimating the site restoration cost obligation were between 4.3% and 8.4% for the year ended December 31, 2024 (year ended December 31, 2023 – 3.8% and 8.4%), and the inflation rates used were between 1.9% and 4.2% for the year ended December 31, 2024 (year ended December 31, 2023 – 2.0% and 4.5%).

 

31

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

Regulatory authorities in certain jurisdictions require that security be provided to cover the estimated reclamation and remediation obligations. As at December 31, 2024, letters of credit totaling $478.4 million (December 31, 2023 - $418.9 million) had been issued to various regulatory agencies to satisfy financial assurance requirements for this purpose. The letters of credit were issued against the Company's Letter of Credit guarantee facility with EDC, the revolving credit facility, and pursuant to arrangements with certain international banks. The Company is in compliance with all applicable requirements under these facilities. In addition, as at December 31, 2024, $451.8 million (December 31, 2023 - $375.1 million) of surety bonds were outstanding as security over reclamation and remediation obligations with respect to Kinross’ properties in the United States and Brazil. The surety bonds were issued pursuant to arrangements with international banks and insurance companies.

 

12.COMMON SHARE CAPITAL

 

The authorized share capital of the Company is comprised of an unlimited number of common shares without par value. A summary of common share transactions for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 is as follows:

 

   2024   2023 
   Number of shares   Amount   Number of shares   Amount 
   (000's)       (000's)     
Common shares                    
Balance at January 1,   1,227,838   $4,481.6    1,221,891   $4,449.5 
Issued:                    
Issued under share option and restricted share plans   1,288    5.7    5,947    32.1 
Total common share capital   1,229,126   $4,487.3    1,227,838   $4,481.6 

 

i.Dividends on common shares

 

The following summarizes dividends declared and paid during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023:

 

   2024   2023 
   Per share   Total paid   Per share   Total paid 
Dividends declared and paid during the year:                    
Three months ended March 31  $0.03   $36.9   $0.03   $36.8 
Three months ended June 30   0.03    36.8    0.03    36.9 
Three months ended September 30   0.03    36.9    0.03    36.8 
Three months ended December 31   0.03    36.9    0.03    36.8 
Total       $147.5        $147.3 

 

On February 12, 2025, the Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.03 per common share, payable on March 20, 2025 to shareholders of record on March 5, 2025.

 

There were no dividends declared but unpaid at December 31, 2024 or December 31, 2023.

 

13.SHARE-BASED PAYMENTS

 

Share-based compensation expense recorded during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 was as follows:

 

   2024   2023 
Restricted share unit plan expense, including restricted performance shares (i)  $30.2   $19.0 
Deferred share units expense (ii)   1.7    1.6 
Employer portion of employee share purchase plan (iii)   2.8    2.4 
Total share-based compensation expense  $34.7   $23.0 

 

i.Restricted share plans

 

The Company has a Restricted Share Plan and a Restricted Share Unit Plan (Cash-Settled) whereby RSUs and RPSUs may be granted to employees, officers and contractors of the Company. Under the Restricted Share Plan, the aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance may not exceed 50 million common shares. The number of common shares available for the granting of restricted shares under this plan as at December 31, 2024 was 16.6 million.

 

32

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

(a)Restricted share units

 

RSUs are generally exercisable into one common share, entitling the holder to acquire the common share for no additional consideration. RSUs vest over a three-year period.

 

The following table summarizes information about all RSUs and related changes during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023:

 

   2024   2023 
   Number of units
(000's)
   Weighted average
share price (C$/unit)
   Number of units
(000's)
   Weighted average
share price (C$/unit)
 
Balance as at January 1   6,672    5.80    4,905    7.44 
Granted   3,593    7.38    4,847    5.16 
Reinvested   112    6.23    182    5.90 
Redeemed - Cash   (1,857)   6.14    (1,325)   7.85 
Redeemed - Equity   (1,159)   6.41    (990)   7.62 
Forfeited   (1,141)   6.21    (947)   6.28 
Outstanding as at December 31   6,220    6.43    6,672    5.80 

 

As at December 31, 2024, the Company had recognized a liability of $20.9 million (December 31, 2023 - $13.0 million) within employee related accrued liabilities (see Note 6vi) in respect of its cash-settled RSUs.

 

(b)Restricted performance share units

 

The RPSUs are subject to certain vesting requirements and vest at the end of three years. The vesting requirements are based on certain performance criteria over the vesting period established by the Company.

 

The following table summarizes information about the RPSUs and related changes during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023:

 

   2024   2023 
   Number of units
(000's)
   Weighted average
share price (C$/unit)
   Number of units
(000's)
   Weighted average
share price (C$/unit)
 
Balance as at January 1   4,091    6.47    3,394    8.06 
Granted   1,539    6.87    2,028    4.68 
Reinvested   72    6.15    103    6.08 
Redeemed   (611)   8.79    (463)   8.13 
Forfeited   (883)   7.17    (971)   7.43 
Outstanding as at December 31   4,208    6.13    4,091    6.47 

 

ii.Deferred share unit plan

 

The Company has a DSU plan for its outside directors which provides that each outside director receives, on the last date in each quarter a number of DSUs having a value equal to a minimum of 50% of the compensation of the outside director for the current quarter. Each outside director can elect to receive a greater percentage of their compensation in DSUs. The number of DSUs granted to an outside director is based on the closing price of the Company's common shares on the TSX on the business day immediately preceding the DSU issue date. At such time as an outside director ceases to be a director, the Company will make a cash payment on the outstanding DSUs to the outside director in accordance with the redemption election made by the departing director or in the absence of an election to defer redemption, in accordance with the default redemption provisions provided in the DSU Plan.

 

33

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

The number of DSUs granted by the Company and the weighted average fair value per unit issued for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 are as follows:

 

   Years ended December 31, 2024 
   2024   2023 
DSUs granted (000's)   173    329 
Weighted average grant-date fair value ($C/unit)  $10.91   $6.66 

 

There were 2,128,217 DSUs outstanding, for which the Company had recognized a liability of $19.8 million, as at December 31, 2024 (December 31, 2023 - $11.9 million), within employee related accrued liabilities (see Note 6vi).

 

iii.Employee share purchase plan (SPP)

 

The Company has an employee SPP whereby certain employees of the Company have the opportunity to contribute up to a maximum of 10% of their annual base salary to purchase common shares. Since 2004, the Company has made contributions equal to 50% of the employees' contributions.

 

iv.Share option plan

 

The Company has a share option plan for officers, employees, and contractors enabling them to purchase common shares. Under the share option plan, the aggregate number of shares reserved for issuance may not exceed 31.2 million common shares. Additionally, the aggregate number of common shares reserved for issuance under the share option plan to insiders, at any one time upon the exercise of options and pursuant to all other compensation arrangements of the Company shall not exceed 10% of the total number of common shares then outstanding. Each option granted under the plan is for a maximum term of seven years. One-third of the options granted are exercisable each year commencing one year after the date of grant. The exercise price is determined by the Company's Board of Directors at the time the option is granted, and may not be less than the closing market price of the common shares on the last trading day prior to the grant date of the option. The share options outstanding as at December 31, 2024 expire at various dates through 2026. The number of common shares available for the granting of options as at December 31, 2024 was 17.9 million.

 

The following table summarizes the status of the share option plan and changes during the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023:

 

   2024   2023 
   Number of options
(000's)
   Weighted average
exercise price
(C$/option)
   Number of options
(000's)
   Weighted average
exercise price
(C$/option)
 
Balance as at January 1   859   $4.68    7,186   $2.84 
Exercised   (824)   4.69    (6,327)   2.59 
Outstanding as at December 31   35   $4.60    859   $4.68 
Exercisable as at December 31   35   $4.60    859   $4.68 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2024, the weighted average share price at the date of exercise was C$10.04 (December 31, 2023 – C$5.61). The outstanding and exercisable options have a weighted average remaining contractual life of 1.11 years.

 

34

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

14.EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

Basic and diluted net earnings attributable to common shareholders of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2024 was $948.8 million (year ended December 31, 2023 - $416.3 million).

 

Earnings per share has been calculated using the weighted average number of common shares and common share equivalents issued and outstanding during the period. Stock options are reflected in diluted earnings per share by application of the treasury method.

 

The following table details the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the purpose of computing basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to common shareholders for the following periods:

 

  Years ended December 31, 
(Number of common shares in thousands)  2024   2023 
Basic weighted average shares outstanding   1,228,855    1,226,985 
Weighted average shares dilution adjustments:          
Stock options(a)   182    822 
Restricted share units   1,805    3,554 
Restricted performance share units   3,662    5,309 
Diluted weighted average shares outstanding   1,234,504    1,236,670 

 

(a)Dilutive stock options were determined using the Company’s average share price for the year. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the average share price used was $7.89 (year ended December 31, 2023 - $4.88).

 

15.INCOME TAX EXPENSE

 

The following table shows the components of the current and deferred tax expense:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Current tax expense          
   Current period  $376.3   $149.0 
   Settlement or adjustment for prior periods   (1.1)   0.3 
           
Deferred tax expense          
   Origination and reversal of temporary differences   115.8    56.4 
   Settlement or adjustment for prior periods   (32.6)   57.3 
   Change in unrecognized deferred tax assets from impairment (reversal) charges   (17.8)   8.8 
   Change in unrecognized deferred tax assets   46.8    21.4 
Total tax expense  $487.4   $293.2 

 

35

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

The following table reconciles the expected income tax expense calculated at the combined Canadian federal and provincial statutory income tax rates to the income tax expense in the consolidated statements of operations:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Earnings before income tax  $1,481.4   $708.6 
Statutory Rate   26.5%   26.5%
Expected income tax expense  $392.6   $187.8 
           
Increase (decrease) resulting from:          
Foreign exchange on deferred income taxes within income tax expenses   86.4    29.3 
Change in unrecognized deferred tax assets   46.8    21.4 
Mining and state taxes   36.6    6.2 
Difference in foreign tax rates   15.4    20.9 
Tax on (recovery from) repatriation of foreign earnings   6.0    (18.2)
True-up of prior provisions to tax filings   2.6    3.6 
Tax impact on non-controlling interest   (9.7)   - 
Percentage of depletion   (11.7)   (12.9)
Change in unrecognized deferred tax assets from impairment (reversal) charges   (17.8)   8.8 
Net accounting expenses (income) not deductible (taxable) for tax   (21.8)   19.8 
Change in income tax related uncertain tax positions   (35.5)   22.3 
Other   (2.5)   4.2 
Income tax expense  $487.4   $293.2 

 

i.Deferred income tax

 

The following table summarizes the components of deferred income tax:

 

   December 31,
2024
   December 31,
2023
 
Deferred tax assets          
Reclamation and remediation obligations  $116.6   $105.9 
Accrued expenses and other   93.8    63.5 
Property, plant and equipment   4.8    5.8 
Losses   0.7    8.0 
    215.9    183.2 
Deferred tax liabilities          
Property, plant and equipment   694.2    581.1 
Inventory capitalization   65.3    36.7 
Reclamation and remediation obligations   0.1    2.6 
   $759.6   $620.4 
Deferred tax liabilities - net  $543.7   $437.2 

 

For balance sheet disclosure purposes, deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset where they relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority and the Company has the legal right and intent to offset.

 

The following table summarizes the movement in net deferred tax liabilities:

 

   December 31,
2024
   December 31,
2023
 
Balance at the beginning of the period  $437.2   $296.9 
Recognized in the statement of operations   112.2    143.9 
Recognized in OCI   (5.3)   (3.6)
Other   (0.4)   - 
Balance at the end of the period  $543.7   $437.2 

 

 

36

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

ii.Unrecognized deferred tax assets and liabilities

 

The aggregate amount of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, for which deferred tax liabilities have not been recognized, as at December 31, 2024 is $7,258.9 million (December 31, 2023 - $6,490.3 million).

 

Deferred tax assets have not been recognized in respect of the following items:

 

   December 31,
2024
   December 31,
2023
 
Deductible temporary differences  $775.7   $736.7 
Tax losses  $467.6   $469.6 

 

The tax losses not recognized expire as per the amount and years noted below. The deductible temporary differences do not expire under current tax legislation. Deferred tax assets have not been recognized in respect of these items because it is not probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the Company can utilize the benefits therefrom.

 

iii.Non-capital losses (not recognized)

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s operating losses that can be applied against future taxable profit:

 

Country  Type  Amount   Expiry Date
Canada  Net operating losses  $1,352.8   2027 - 2044
United States(a)  Net operating losses   259.0   2025-2026 & No expiry
Chile  Net operating losses   133.3   No expiry
Brazil  Net operating losses   1.7   No expiry
Mauritania  Net operating losses   13.1   2025 - 2029
Luxembourg  Net operating losses   31.0   Various
Other  Net operating losses   52.2   Various

 

(a)Utilization of the United States loss carry forwards will be limited in any year as a result of the previous changes in ownership.

 

Global minimum top-up tax

 

The Global Minimum Tax Act (“GMTA”) was enacted in Canada on June 20, 2024. The GMTA includes a 15% global minimum tax (“top-up tax”) that applies to large multinational enterprise groups with global consolidated revenues over €750 million. As a result, the Company was subject to the top-up tax rules for its 2024 taxation year. The GMTA did not have a material impact on the Company in 2024, as none of the Company’s jurisdictions were subject to any material top up tax amounts for 2024.

 

In accordance with the amendments to IAS 12 “Income Taxes” issued by the IASB on May 23, 2023, the Company has applied a temporary mandatory exception from deferred tax accounting for the impacts of the top-up tax and will account for it as a current tax when incurred.

 

16.DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

 

i.Chirano Discontinued Operations

 

On August 10, 2022, the Company announced that it had completed the sale of its 90% interest in the Chirano mine in Ghana to Asante Gold Corporation (“Asante”) for total consideration of $225.0 million in cash and shares. In accordance with the sale agreement, which was amended on February 10, 2023, the Company received $60.0 million in cash and 34,962,584 Asante shares on closing, and the remaining cash consideration of $128.8 million was to be received over the two-year period subsequent to closing. The total deferred consideration is secured through pledges by Asante of equity interests in certain acquired entities holding an indirect interest in the Chirano mine. The Company’s Chirano operations were classified as discontinued operations in 2022.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2024, the Company received $10.0 million (year ended December 31, 2023 - $5.0 million) in respect of the deferred payment consideration, which was recognized as net cash flow in discontinued operations from investing activities. As at December 31, 2024, the fair value of the remaining deferred payment consideration is $100.0 million (December 31, 2023 - $107.9 million) and is classified as a current receivable. See Note 6ii.

 

37

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

ii.Russian Discontinued Operations

 

On June 15, 2022, the Company announced that it had completed the sale of its Russian operations to the Highland Gold Mining group of companies for total cash consideration of $340.0 million, of which $300.0 million was received on closing and the remaining $40.0 million was received during the second quarter of 2023 and recognized as net cash flow in discontinued operations from investing activities.

 

17.SEGMENTED INFORMATION

 

The Company operates primarily in the gold mining industry and its major product is gold. Its activities include gold production, acquisition, exploration and development of gold properties. The Company’s primary mining operations are in Canada, the United States, Brazil, Chile and Mauritania.

 

The reportable segments are those operations whose operating results are reviewed by the chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance provided those operations pass certain quantitative thresholds. Operations whose revenues, earnings or losses or assets exceed 10% of the total consolidated revenue, earnings or losses or assets are reportable segments.

 

In order to determine reportable operating segments, management reviews various factors, including geographical location and managerial structure. It was determined by management that a reportable operating segment generally consists of an individual mining property managed by a single general manager and management team.

 

The Corporate and other segment includes corporate, shutdown and other non-operating assets (including Kettle River-Buckhorn, Lobo-Marte and Maricunga).

 

Finance income, finance expense, and other income – net are managed on a consolidated basis and are not allocated to operating segments.

 

i.Operating segments

 

The following tables set forth operating results by reportable segment for the following years:

  

   Operating segments   Non-operating segments(a) 
Year ended December 31, 2024  Tasiast   Paracatu   La Coipa   Fort Knox(b)   Round Mountain   Bald Mountain   Great Bear   Corporate and other(c)    Total 
Revenue                                             
Metal sales  $1,456.5    1,258.9    573.3    912.5    506.8    438.2    -    2.6   $5,148.8 
Cost of sales                                             
Production cost of sales   415.4    548.6    231.3    452.5    328.3    220.3    -    0.7    2,197.1 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   357.1    189.3    118.3    140.9    193.2    143.0    0.5    5.2    1,147.5 
Reversal of impairment charge   -    -    -    -    (74.1)   -    -    -    (74.1)
Total cost of sales   772.5    737.9    349.6    593.4    447.4    363.3    0.5    5.9    3,270.5 
Gross profit (loss)  $684.0    521.0    223.7    319.1    59.4    74.9    (0.5)   (3.3)  $1,878.3 
Other operating (income) expense   (21.6)   7.5    9.6    0.5    (9.7)   0.9    6.2    20.6    14.0 
Exploration and business development   9.6    7.9    3.3    11.6    54.1    6.0    37.1    68.2    197.8 
General and administrative   -    -    -    -    -    -    -    126.2    126.2 
Operating earnings (loss)  $696.0    505.6    210.8    307.0    15.0    68.0    (43.8)   (218.3)  $1,540.3 
Other income - net                                           14.3 
Finance income                                           18.2 
Finance expense                                           (91.4)
Earnings before tax                                          $1,481.4 
                                              
Capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2024(d)  $377.4    142.0    74.9    332.6    143.1    59.4    103.9    12.8   $1,246.1 

 

38

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

   Operating segments   Non-operating segments(a) 
Year ended December 31, 2023  Tasiast   Paracatu   La Coipa   Fort Knox(b)   Round Mountain   Bald Mountain   Great Bear   Corporate and other(c)   Total 
Revenue                                             
Metal sales  $1,200.8    1,149.6    522.6    557.9    454.4    349.6    -    4.8   $4,239.7 
Cost of sales                                             
Production cost of sales   406.8    538.6    182.8    343.5    357.7    223.5    -    1.5    2,054.4 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization   244.4    186.6    187.8    96.8    157.2    107.8    0.5    5.7    986.8 
Impairment charges   -    -    -    38.9    -    -    -    -    38.9 
Total cost of sales   651.2    725.2    370.6    479.2    514.9    331.3    0.5    7.2    3,080.1 
Gross profit (loss)  $549.6    424.4    152.0    78.7    (60.5)   18.3    (0.5)   (2.4)  $1,159.6 
Other operating (income) expense   (3.9)   11.3    (8.2)   0.8    4.1    1.2    0.3    58.9    64.5 
Exploration and business development   3.9    5.6    13.0    12.8    35.7    3.2    49.1    61.7    185.0 
General and administrative   -    -    -    -    -    -    -    108.7    108.7 
Operating earnings (loss)  $549.6    407.5    147.2    65.1    (100.3)   13.9    (49.9)   (231.7)  $801.4 
Other expense - net                                           (27.3)
Finance income                                           40.5 
Finance expense                                           (106.0)
Earnings before tax                                          $708.6 
                                              
Capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2023(d)  $375.8    182.3    87.6    419.7    31.1    141.1    92.7    2.6   $1,332.9 

 

   Operating segments   Non-operating segments(a) 
   Tasiast   Paracatu   La Coipa   Fort Knox(b)   Round Mountain   Bald Mountain   Great Bear   Corporate and other   Total 
Property, plant and equipment at                                             
December 31, 2024  $2,305.5    1,600.1    359.9    1,079.6    396.3    168.9    1,595.2    463.1   $7,968.6 
                                              
Total assets at                                             
December 31, 2024  $3,059.0    2,028.1    511.1    1,649.7    688.5    423.9    1,596.4    908.9   $10,865.6 

 

   Operating segments   Non-operating segments(a) 
   Tasiast   Paracatu   La Coipa   Fort Knox(b)   Round Mountain   Bald Mountain   Great Bear   Corporate and other   Total 
Property, plant and equipment at                                             
December 31, 2023  $2,325.4    1,653.3    379.1    928.1    383.9    347.2    1,491.1    455.1   $7,963.2 
                                              
Total assets at                                             
December 31, 2023  $3,081.6    1,972.8    519.7    1,334.5    731.1    513.0    1,498.4    892.2   $10,543.3 

 

(a)Non-operating segments include development and pre-development properties.
(b)The Fort Knox segment includes Manh Choh, which was aggregated with Fort Knox during the year ended December 31, 2024. Comparative figures are presented in accordance with the current year’s presentation.
(c)Corporate and other includes metal sales and operating (loss) income of Maricunga of $2.6 and $(8.6) million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2024 ($4.8 million and $0.4 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2023). During the year ended December 31, 2024, Maricunga sold its remaining finished metals inventories after transitioning all processing activities to care and maintenance in 2019. Maricunga’s operating (loss) income includes net reclamation (expense) recovery of $(1.8) million for the year ended December 31, 2024 (year ended December 31, 2023 - $29.1 million). Corporate and other also includes insurance recoveries recognized in other operating expense of $22.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2024.
(d)Segment capital expenditures are presented on an accrual basis and include capitalized interest. Additions to property, plant and equipment in the consolidated statements of cash flows are presented on a cash basis.

 

ii.Geographic segments

 

The following tables show metal sales and property, plant and equipment by geographic region:

 

   Metal Sales 
   As at December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Geographic information(a)          
United States  $1,857.5   $1,361.9 
Mauritania   1,456.5    1,200.8 
Brazil   1,258.9    1,149.6 
Chile   575.9    527.4 
Total  $5,148.8   $4,239.7 

 

(a)Geographic location is determined based on location of the mining assets.

 

39

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

   Property, Plant and Equipment 
   As at December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Geographic information(a)          
Mauritania  $2,313.1   $2,335.1 
United States   1,652.9    1,668.6 
Brazil   1,604.3    1,658.8 
Canada   1,599.5    1,495.9 
Chile   798.8    804.8 
Total  $7,968.6   $7,963.2 

  

(a)Geographic location is determined based on location of the mining assets.

 

iii.Significant customers

 

The following tables represent sales to individual customers exceeding 10% of annual metal sales for the following periods:

 

Year ended December 31, 2024:  Tasiast  Paracatu  La Coipa  Fort Knox  Round
Mountain
  Bald Mountain  Corporate and
other(a)
  Total 
Customer                                 
1  $-   244.7   126.6   143.4   73.0   76.3   0.8  $664.8 
2   403.6   57.0   17.3   19.8   60.1   56.7   0.3   614.8 
3   350.5   56.2   50.2   62.7   30.7   37.8   -   588.1 
4   288.5   78.7   48.7   71.8   70.7   16.8   -   575.2 
5   -   233.5   64.0   109.2   92.5   65.4   -   564.6 
6   313.2   113.3   23.7   53.9   23.8   22.2   0.4   550.5 
                               $3,558.0 
% of total metal sales                               69.1%

 

Year ended December 31, 2023:  Tasiast  Paracatu  La Coipa  Fort Knox  Round
Mountain
  Bald Mountain  Corporate and
other(a)
  Total 
Customer                                 
1  $353.9   85.9   24.8   43.7   46.8   38.6   1.1  $594.8 
2   155.2   163.2   27.7   100.3   66.8   80.2   0.5   593.9 
3   203.1   96.6   100.9   66.9   37.3   39.3   1.1   545.2 
4   -   134.5   132.0   64.2   65.8   60.2   0.3   457.0 
5   249.5   77.4   12.1   39.5   60.3   14.2   -   453.0 
                               $2,643.9 
% of total metal sales                               62.4%

 

(a)The Corporate and other segment includes metal sales for Maricunga for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023.

 

The Company is not economically dependent on a limited number of customers for the sale of its product as gold can be sold through numerous commodity market traders worldwide.

 

18.COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

i.Commitments

 

As at December 31, 2024, the Company had future operating lease obligations of approximately $34.3 million (December 31, 2023 - $43.2 million), and future purchase commitments of approximately $2,419.0 million (December 31, 2023 - $2,684.7 million), of which $420.3 million relates to commitments for capital expenditures (December 31, 2023 - $485.1 million).

 

ii.Contingencies

 

General

 

Estimated losses from contingencies are accrued by a charge to earnings when information available prior to the issuance of the financial statements indicates that it is likely that a future event will confirm that an asset has been impaired or a liability incurred at the date of the financial statements and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated.

 

40

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

Other legal matters

 

The Company is from time to time involved in legal proceedings, arising in the ordinary course of its business. Typically, the amount of ultimate liability with respect to these actions will not, in the opinion of management, materially affect Kinross’ financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

Maricunga regulatory proceedings

 

In May 2015, Chilean environmental enforcement authority (“SMA”) commenced an administrative proceeding against Compania Minera Maricunga alleging that pumping of groundwater to support the Maricunga operation had impacted area wetlands and, on March 18, 2016, issued a resolution alleging that CMM’s pumping was impacting the “Valle Ancho” wetland. Beginning in May 2016, the SMA issued a series of resolutions ordering CMM to temporarily curtail pumping from its wells.

 

In response, CMM suspended mining and crushing activities and reduced water consumption to minimal levels. CMM contested these resolutions, but its efforts were unsuccessful and, except for a short period of time in July 2016, CMM’s operations have remained suspended. On June 24, 2016, the SMA amended its initial sanction (the “Amended Sanction”) and effectively required CMM to cease operations and close the mine, with water use from its wells curtailed to minimal levels. On July 9, 2016, CMM appealed the sanctions and, on August 30, 2016, submitted a request to the Environmental Tribunal that it issue an injunction suspending the effectiveness of the Amended Sanction pending a final decision on the merits of CMM’s appeal. On September 16, 2016, the Environmental Tribunal rejected CMM’s injunction request and on August 7, 2017, upheld the SMA’s Amended Sanction and curtailment orders on procedural grounds. On October 9, 2018, the Supreme Court affirmed the Environmental Tribunal’s ruling on procedural grounds and dismissed CMM’s appeal.

 

On June 2, 2016, CMM was served with two separate lawsuits filed by the Chilean State Defense Counsel (“CDE”). Both lawsuits, filed with the Environmental Tribunal, alleged that pumping from the Maricunga groundwater wells caused environmental damage to area wetlands. One action relates to the “Pantanillo” wetland and the other action relates to the Valle Ancho wetland (described above). On November 23, 2018, the Tribunal ruled in favor of CMM in the Pantanillo case and against CMM in the Valle Ancho case. In the Valle Ancho case, the Tribunal required CMM to, among other things, submit a restoration plan to the SMA for approval. CMM appealed the Valle Ancho ruling to the Supreme Court. The CDE appealed to the Supreme Court in both cases and asserted in the Valle Ancho matter that the Environmental Tribunal erred by not ordering a complete shutdown of Maricunga’s groundwater wells. On January 7, 2022, the Supreme Court annulled the Tribunal’s rulings in both cases on procedural grounds and remanded the matters to the Tribunal for further proceedings. In parallel, in December 2020, CMM began discussions with the CDE to resolve the case through the filing of a reparation plan (“PdR”). The PdR is aimed at supporting the natural recovery that the wetlands have sustained since pumping stopped, as well as implementing other supplemental value enhancement actions in the basin. The cases before the Tribunal are currently stayed pending ongoing settlement discussions.

 

Kinross Brasil Mineração S.A.

 

On February 27, 2023, the State Public Attorney (“SPA”) in Brazil filed a civil action against KBM seeking, among other things, to compel KBM to cease depositing mine tailings into its two onsite tailings facilities (“TSFs”), decommission the TSFs and to obtain 100 million Brazilian Reals (approximately $20.0 million) from KBM to ensure money is available to address the requested relief. The SPA sought an immediate injunction to obtain this relief, which was denied by the Lower Court. In its ruling, the Lower Court found that the TSFs are properly permitted, regularly monitored and inspected, and that the SPA produced no evidence, technical or otherwise, that the TSFs are unsafe. The Lower Court further noted that a generalized concern about the size of the TSFs does not provide a legal basis for the relief sought. On March 17, 2023, the SPA filed an interlocutory appeal before the Appellate Court of the State of Minas Gerais challenging the Lower Court’s Decision. The interlocutory appeal was denied by the Appellate Court on March 27, 2023. Thereafter, proceedings were stayed at the request of the parties to allow them to discuss a potential resolution of the matter. KBM and the SPA recently reached a settlement. Under the settlement agreement, KBM agrees to: (i) confirm its timeline for de-characterization (closure) of the TSFs; (ii) hire a third-party expert for the SPA and other relevant authorities to keep them informed about KBM’s execution of the de-characterization projects and (iii) pay a total of approximately $7 million, to be paid in annual installments over a 10-year period to support socio-environmental projects. In the third quarter of 2024, a judge ratified the settlement agreement and this matter is now closed.

 

41

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

Income and other taxes

 

The Company operates in numerous countries around the world and accordingly is subject to, and pays taxes under the various regimes in countries in which it operates. These tax regimes are determined under general corporate tax laws of the country. The Company has historically filed, and continues to file, all required tax returns and to pay the taxes reasonably determined to be due. The tax rules and regulations in many countries are complex and subject to interpretation. Changes in tax law or changes in the way that tax law is interpreted may also impact the Company’s effective tax rate as well as its business and operations.

 

Kinross’ tax records, transactions and filing positions may be subject to examination by the tax authorities in the countries in which the Company has operations. The tax authorities may review the Company’s transactions in respect of the year, or multiple years, which they have chosen for examination. The tax authorities may interpret the tax implications of a transaction in form or in fact, differently from the interpretation reached by the Company. In circumstances where the Company and the tax authority cannot reach a consensus on the tax impact, there are processes and procedures which both parties may undertake in order to reach a resolution, which may span many years in the future. Uncertainty in the interpretation and application of applicable tax laws, regulations or the relevant sections of Mining Conventions by the tax authorities, or the failure of relevant Governments or tax authorities to honour tax laws, regulations or the relevant sections of Mining Conventions could adversely affect Kinross.

 

19.RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

There were no material related party transactions in 2024 and 2023 other than compensation of key management personnel.

 

Compensation of key management personnel of the Company is as follows:

 

   Years ended December 31, 
   2024   2023 
Cash compensation - salaries, short-term incentives, and other benefits  $10.7   $9.0 
Long-term incentives, including share-based payments   9.9    4.2 
Termination and post-retirement benefits   2.1    3.5 
Total compensation paid to key management personnel  $22.7   $16.7 

 

Key management personnel are defined as the Senior Leadership Team and members of the Board of Directors.

 

20.CONSOLIDATING SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

The obligations of the Company under the senior notes are guaranteed by the following 100% owned subsidiaries of the Company (the “guarantor subsidiaries”): Round Mountain Gold Corporation, Kinross Brasil Mineração S.A., Fairbanks Gold Mining, Inc., Melba Creek Mining, Inc., KG Mining (Round Mountain) Inc., KG Mining (Bald Mountain) Inc., Great Bear Resources Ltd, and Compania Minera Mantos de Oro. All guarantees by the guarantor subsidiaries are joint and several, and full and unconditional, subject to certain customary release provisions contained in the indenture governing the senior notes. The guarantees are unsecured senior obligations of the respective guarantor subsidiaries and rank equally with all other unsecured senior obligations. The guarantees are effectively subordinated to any secured indebtedness and other secured liabilities of the respective guarantor subsidiaries. The obligations of each guarantor subsidiary under its respective guarantee is limited to an amount not to exceed the maximum amount that can be guaranteed by law or without resulting in its obligations under such guarantee being voidable or unenforceable under applicable laws relating to fraudulent transfer, or under similar laws affecting the rights of creditors generally.

 

The following tables contain consolidating summary financial information related to the guarantor subsidiaries. For purposes of this information, the financial statements of Kinross Gold Corporation and of the guarantor subsidiaries reflect investments in subsidiary companies on an equity accounting basis.

 

42

 

 

Kinross Gold Corporation

Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023

(Tabular amounts in millions of United States dollars, unless otherwise noted)

 

As at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 

 

   Kinross Gold Corp.  

Guarantor

Subsidiaries

  

Non-Guarantor

Subsidiaries

  

Consolidation

Adjustments(a)

   Consolidated 
   2024   2023   2024   2023   2024   2023   2024   2023   2024   2023 
Current assets  $878.5   $833.8   $2,806.0   $2,522.7   $3,847.4   $3,635.2   $(5,405.2)  $(5,189.4)  $2,126.7   $1,802.3 
Non-current assets   8,792.3    8,638.4    5,667.5    5,626.2    31,105.3    31,445.1    (36,826.2)   (36,968.7)   8,738.9    8,741.0 
Current liabilities   449.2    187.6    1,521.3    1,500.5    4,494.8    4,186.8    (5,405.2)   (5,189.4)   1,060.1    685.5 
Non-current liabilities   2,360.0    3,200.9    1,140.5    1,149.7    3,460.5    4,818.1    (4,156.1)   (5,496.6)   2,804.9    3,672.1 

 

For the twelve months ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023

 

   Kinross Gold Corp.   Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
  

Consolidation

Adjustments(a)

   Consolidated 
   2024   2023   2024   2023   2024   2023   2024   2023   2024   2023 
Revenue  $3,538.8   $3,003.4   $3,266.1   $2,953.2   $1,559.9   $1,200.8   $(3,216.0)  $(2,917.7)  $5,148.8   $4,239.7 
Net earnings (loss) attributable to common shareholders   948.8    416.3    457.3    263.2    2,349.1    1,363.8    (2,806.4)   (1,627.0)   948.8    416.3 

 

(a)Consolidation adjustments represent the necessary amounts to eliminate the intercompany balances between the Company, the guarantor subsidiaries and other subsidiaries to arrive at the information for the Company on a consolidated basis.

 

43

 

Exhibit 99.3

 

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements on Form S-8 (File Nos. 333-180822, 333-180823, 333-180824, 333-217099 and 333-262966) of our reports dated February 12, 2025 with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Kinross Gold Corporation (the “Entity”), which comprise the consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, equity, and cash flows for each of the years then ended, and the related notes, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, which reports appear in Exhibit 99.2 to this Form 6-K of the Entity dated February 12, 2025.

 

 

/s/ KPMG LLP

 

Chartered Professional Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants

 

Toronto, Canada

February 12, 2025

 

 

 

 


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