Barrick reaches agreement to sell Lagunas Norte mine

The total consideration consists of an up-front cash payment of US$20 million, additional cash consideration of US$10 million payable on the first anniversary of closing and US$20 million payable on the second anniversary of closing, a 2% net smelter return royalty (NSR) on gold and silver produced through the refractory sulfide ore project (PMR), which will terminate once 1 million oz of gold has been produced and which may be purchased by Boroo for a limited period of time after closing for US$16 million, plus a contingent payment of up to US$15 million which is based upon the average gold price per ounce for the 2-year period immediately following closing (average gold price"). The contingent payment, which is payable 2 years following closing, is US$5 million if the average gold price is greater than US$1600 and less than US$1700; US$10 million if the average gold price is greater than US$1700 and less than US$1800; and US$15 million if the average gold price exceeds US$1800.

Boroo will also assume 100% of the US$173 million reclamation bond obligations for Lagunas Norte in two tranches: 50% on closing and 50% within 1 year of closing. The deferred payments, the contingent payments, and the obligation to replace the second tranche of the reclamation bond obligations will be secured.

Barrick President and Chief Executive, Mark Bristow, said the sale was in line with Barrick's policy of selling non-core interests – a process which has already realised some US$1.5 billion – in order to focus its portfolio on Tier One assets. The proposed acquisition would benefit the mine’s stakeholders in Peru by giving Boroo the opportunity to extend its life by accessing satellite resources and adapting the infrastructure.

The Latin American region remains an important destination for Barrick, and the company will keep a team in Peru to continue to develop its portfolio of exploration assets and to pursue opportunities to find and operate world-class gold and or copper mines in that country.The transaction is subject to closing conditions.

TD Securities Inc is acting as Financial Adviser to Barrick. Lawson Lundell LLP and Rodrigo, Elias & Medrano Abogados are acting as legal counsel to Barrick.

Cormark Securities Inc is acting as Financial Adviser to Boroo. Stikeman Elliott LLP, Ashurst LLP and Payet, Rey, Cauvi, Pérez Abogados are acting as legal counsel to Boroo.

Read the article online at: https://www.globalminingreview.com/finance-business/18022021/barrick-reaches-agreement-to-sell-lagunas-norte-mine/