Announcements 2018
- 23 May 2018
Northam secures R2 billion of additional funding capacity for growth initiatives and an update regarding the second furnace at Zondereinde
Northam is pleased to advise shareholders that it has secured a new R1 billion two-year unsecured revolving credit facility (“New R1bn RCF”), which matures in April 2020.
Additional R1 billion revolving credit facility
Northam is pleased to advise shareholders that it has secured a new R1 billion two-year unsecured revolving credit facility (“New R1bn RCF”), which matures in April 2020. This facility is in addition to Northam’s existing R2 billion unsecured revolving credit facility (“R2bn RCF”), which matures in November 2021, and increases Northam’s total revolving credit facilities to R3 billion up until April 2020. The New R1bn RCF will accrue interest at the same rate as the R2bn RCF (variable rate of JIBAR plus a margin of 3.3%).
R1 billion fixed rate Domestic Medium Term Notes placement
Northam announced the issue of a R450 million tranche and a R550 million tranche of one-year senior unsecured fixed rate notes (“Notes”) on 19 April 2018 and 17 May 2018, respectively. The cumulative R1 billion of Notes were issued under Northam’s R2 billion Domestic Medium Term Note Programme and attract a fixed coupon of 11% per annum, compounded annually. Interest on the Notes is payable upon redemption.
Rationale for and application of the additional funding
During the past 12 months Northam has completed the construction and commissioning of its second furnace at Zondereinde (at a capital cost of approximately R1 billion); settled its purchase price commitments pertaining to the acquisition of the Tumela resource, the Eland mine and the recycling assets in the USA; accelerated certain capital growth projects; and made significant progress with the development and construction of its new Booysendal South mine. The combined funding requirement in respect of the aforementioned was well in excess of R3 billion. During this period a significant surplus concentrate stockpile, with an approximate value of R2 billion, was built up at Zondereinde in anticipation of commissioning the second furnace. Processing of this stockpile at the second furnace is currently underway and the working capital lock-up is expected to be released during financial year 2019.
A significant new purchase of concentrate agreement has been entered into with a third party and processing of this concentrate has already commenced.
A portion of the proceeds from the Notes has been used to repay previous drawdowns under the R2bn RCF and the New R1bn RCF remains undrawn. In view of the successful commissioning of the furnace and the ongoing working capital release from the concentrate stockpile, Northam opted to place the Notes for a one-year term only.
As at 30 April 2018, Northam’s net debt position amounted to approximately R2.5 billion, comprising R875 million of domestic medium term notes in issue and a net drawdown of approximately R1.6 billion on the R2bn RCF. The Notes issued on 17 May 2018 will have no impact on the net debt position and the proceeds from this issue have been paid into the R2bn RCF.
The addition of the New R1bn RCF is intended to right-size Northam’s standby facilities from R2 billion to R3 billion during a capital intensive development period at the Booysendal South mine whilst releasing value locked in the stockpile and, following that, to maintain a prudent level of standby facilities, taking into account Northam’s significantly enlarged operational footprint.
Update on the second furnace at Zondereinde
Ramp-up of the newly commissioned second furnace is progressing as planned with concentrate feed currently averaging approximating 400 tonnes per day at 13.5 MW. Northam is on track to complete processing of the surplus stockpile in financial year 2019, taking into account the additional concentrate purchased.
Paul Dunne, Northam’s Chief Executive Officer, said “the additional R2 billion funding flexibility addresses our investment in the concentrate stockpile during this capital intensive period for the Booysendal South project. The increased RCF also provides additional medium-term flexibility to take advantage of further potential opportunities Which may arise in the PGM sector.”
Johannesburg
23 May 2018
Corporate Advisor and JSE Sponsor to Northam
One Capital
Attorneys to Northam
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Inc.
Arranger, Dealer and Debt Sponsor to Northam in respect of the Notes
One Capital
Legal Advisors to Northam, Arranger and Dealer in respect of the Notes
Bowman Gilfillan Inc.
Mandated Lead Arranger, Original Lender and Facility Agent in respect of the RCF
Nedbank Limited (acting through its Corporate and Investment Banking division)
- 17 May 2018
Listing of new financial instrument – NHM005
The JSE Limited has granted approval for the listing of NHM005 Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes, under the Northam Platinum Limited ZAR2 000 000 000 Domestic Medium Term Note Programme dated 3 August 2012 (“Programme”), as guaranteed by Booysendal Platinum Proprietary Limited, with effect from 18 May 2018.
The JSE Limited has granted approval for the listing of NHM005 Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes, under the Northam Platinum Limited ZAR2 000 000 000 Domestic Medium Term Note Programme dated 3 August 2012 (“Programme”), as guaranteed by Booysendal Platinum Proprietary Limited, with effect from 18 May 2018.
Instrument Type: | Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes |
Total Notes in Issue: | ZAR1 425 000 000.00 including this issue |
Instrument Code: | NHM005 |
Nominal Amount: | ZAR550 000 000.00 |
Issue Price: | 100% |
Interest Rate: | 11% percent per annum payable annually |
Coupon Rate Indicator: | Fixed |
Issue Date: | 18 May 2018 |
Interest Commencement Date: | 18 May 2018 |
Maturity date: | 18 May 2019 |
Final Redemption Amount: | 100% of Nominal Amount |
Last day to Register: | By 17:00 on 7 May 2019 |
Books Close: | 8 May 2019 |
Interest Payment Dates: | 18 May 2019 |
ISIN No: | ZAG000151242 |
Business Day Convention: | Modified following Business Day |
Other: | The pricing supplement does not contain additional terms and conditions or changes to the terms and conditions as contained in the Programme |
Summary of additional terms: | Not Applicable |
The Notes will be immobilised in the Central Securities Depository (CSD) and settlement will take place electronically in terms of JSE Rules.
Johannesburg
17 May 2018
Arranger, Dealer and Debt Sponsor
One Capital
Attorneys to Northam in respect of the Notes
Bowman Gilfillan Inc.
- 09 May 2018
Interest payment notification
Northam bondholders are advised of the following interest payment due on Monday, 14 May 2018.
Northam bondholders are advised of the following interest payment due on Monday, 14 May 2018:
Bond Code | NHM002 |
ISIN No | ZAG000129024 |
Coupon | 13.5% per annum |
Interest Period | 12 November 2017 to 11 May 2018 |
Interest Amount Due | R11,812,500.00 |
Payment Date | 14 May 2018 |
Date Convention | Modified Following Business Day |
09 May 2018
Debt Sponsor
One Capital
- 19 Apr 2018
Listing of new financial instrument – NHM004
The JSE Limited has granted approval for the listing of NHM004 Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes, under the Northam Platinum Limited ZAR2 000 000 000 Domestic Medium Term Note Programme dated 3 August 2012 (“Programme”), as guaranteed by Booysendal Platinum Proprietary Limited, with effect from 20 April 2018.
The JSE Limited has granted approval for the listing of NHM004 Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes, under the Northam Platinum Limited ZAR2 000 000 000 Domestic Medium Term Note Programme dated 3 August 2012 (“Programme”), as guaranteed by Booysendal Platinum Proprietary Limited, with effect from 20 April 2018.
Instrument Type: | Senior Unsecured Fixed Rate Notes |
Total Notes in Issue: | ZAR875 000 000.00 including this issue |
Instrument Code: | NHM004 |
Nominal Amount: | ZAR450 000 000.00 |
Issue Price: | 100% |
Interest Rate: | 11% percent per annum payable annually: |
Coupon Rate Indicator: | Fixed |
Issue Date: | 20 April 2018 |
Interest Commencement Date: | 20 April 2018 |
Maturity date: | 20 April 2018 |
Final Redemption Amount: | 100% of Nominal Amount |
Last day to Register: | By 17:00 on 9 April 2019 |
Books Close: | 10 April 2019 |
Interest Payment Dates: | 20 April 2019 |
ISIN No: | ZAG000150764 |
Business Day Convention: | Modified following Business Day |
Other: | The pricing supplement does not contain additional terms and conditions or changes to the terms and conditions as contained in the Programme |
Summary of additional terms: | Not Applicable |
The Notes will be immobilised in the Central Securities Depository (CSD) and settlement will take place electronically in terms of JSE Rules.
Johannesburg
19 April 2018
Arranger, Dealer and Debt Sponsor
One Capital
Attorneys to Northam in respect of the Notes
Bowman Gilfillan Inc.
- 04 Apr 2018
Murray & Roberts Cementation Limited (“MRC”) work stoppage at Northam’s Booysendal north mine (“Booysendal”)
Northam shareholders are referred to the announcement published on SENS on 27 March 2018 relating to the unprotected work stoppage of approximately 750 MRC employees at the Booysendal mine from Monday night, 26 March 2018.
Northam shareholders are referred to the announcement published on SENS on 27 March 2018 relating to the unprotected work stoppage of approximately 750 MRC employees at the Booysendal mine from Monday night, 26 March 2018.
Northam is pleased to announce that an agreement has been reached with the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU), the representative union, for a full return to work by the affected MRC employees, beginning with the morning shift of 4 April 2018.
Booysendal will transition to owner-operator status on 1 May 2018.
Johannesburg
4 April 2018
Sponsor and Debt Sponsor
One Capital
- 29 Mar 2018
Dealings in securities
In compliance with paragraphs 3.63 to 3.66 of the JSE Limited (“JSE”) Listings Requirements, Northam advises its shareholders of the following dealings in shares by a director of a major subsidiary of the company.
In compliance with paragraphs 3.63 to 3.66 of the JSE Limited (“JSE”) Listings Requirements, Northam advises its shareholders of the following dealings in shares by a director of a major subsidiary of the company:
Name of director of major subsidiary | Mr LC van Schalkwyk |
Name of associate | Mrs C van Schalkwyk |
Relationship with director | Wife of Mr van Schalkwyk |
Name of major subsidiary | Booysendal Platinum Proprietary Limited |
Nature and extent of director’s interest | Indirect beneficial |
Class of shares | Ordinary shares |
Transactions completed on market | Yes |
Transaction 1 | |
Date of transaction | 26 March 2018 |
Nature of transaction | Indirect purchase of shares |
Price per ordinary share | R38.00 |
Total number of ordinary shares | 18 386 |
Value of transaction | R698 668.00 |
Transaction 2 | |
Date of transaction | 26 March 2018 |
Nature of transaction | Indirect sale of shares |
Price per ordinary share | Various different trades with the following price information: - volume weighted average price of R37.5021; - highest price of R37.53; and - lowest price of R37.50 |
Total number of ordinary shares | 70 915 |
Value of transaction | R2 659 462.17 |
Transaction 3 | |
Date of transaction | 27 March 2018 |
Nature of transaction | Indirect purchase of shares |
Price per ordinary share | R37.50 |
Total number of ordinary shares | 60 000 |
Value of transaction | R2 250 000.00 |
Johannesburg
29 March 2018
Sponsor and Debt Sponsor
One Capital
- 27 Mar 2018
Murray & Roberts Cementation Limited (MRC) work stoppage at Northam’s Booysendal North mine (Booysendal)
Northam confirms that approximately 750 employees at the Booysendal mine in Mpumalanga Province, embarked on an unprotected work stoppage with effect from Monday night, 26 March 2018.
Northam confirms that approximately 750 employees at the Booysendal mine in Mpumalanga Province, embarked on an unprotected work stoppage with effect from Monday night, 26 March 2018.
The MRC employees had been approached by Northam to become full-time employees in a move for Booysendal to become an owner-operating mine, which will result in them becoming permanent Northam employees. The affected employees are demanding end-of- contract termination packages from MRC.
Both MRC and the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU), the representative union, have been in consultation with the affected employees. MRC has applied for an urgent interdict to effect a return to work.
Shareholders will be kept informed of further developments.
Issued by
R&A Strategic Communications
Johannesburg
Tel: +27 (0)11 880 3924
Marion Brower: +27 71 493 0387
Jan Walker: +27 71 493 0429
Johannesburg
27 March 2018
- 13 Mar 2018
Dealings in securities
In terms of the Northam broad-based economic empowerment transaction implemented on 18 May 2015, Zambezi Platinum holds ordinary shares in Northam. Pursuant to the preference share terms, Zambezi Platinum is entitled to elect to settle the preference share redemption amount in cash, Northam ordinary shares or a combination thereof.
Purchase of Zambezi Platinum (RF) Limited (“Zambezi Platinum”) preference shares (“preference shares”)
In terms of the Northam broad-based economic empowerment transaction implemented on 18 May 2015, Zambezi Platinum holds ordinary shares in Northam. Pursuant to the preference share terms, Zambezi Platinum is entitled to elect to settle the preference share redemption amount in cash, Northam ordinary shares or a combination thereof.
Accordingly, in compliance with paragraphs 3.63 to 3.66 of the JSE Listings Requirements (“Listings Requirements”), Northam advises its shareholders of the following dealings by a director and chairman of the company and of Zambezi Platinum:
Name of director | Mr K B Mosehla |
Name of associate | Adelaide Trust |
Relationship with director | Trustee |
Date of transaction | 12 March 2018 |
Nature of transaction | Indirect purchase of preference shares |
Class of shares | Preference shares |
Price per ordinary share | Various different trades with the following price information: - volume weighted average price of R59.92; - highest price of R60.00; and - lowest price of R58.67 |
Total number of ordinary shares | 17 200 preference shares |
Value of transaction | R1 030 615.47 |
Nature and extent of director’s interest | Indirect beneficial interest in Zambezi Platinum resulting in an indirect exposure to Northam ordinary shares |
Transaction completed on market | Yes |
Clearance obtained in terms of paragraph 3.66 of the Listings Requirements | Yes |
Johannesburg
13 March 2018
Sponsor and Debt Sponsor
One Capital
- 06 Mar 2018
Interest payment notification
Northam bondholders are advised of the following interest payment due on Friday, 9 March 2018.
Northam bondholders are advised of the following interest payment due on Friday, 9 March 2018:
Bond Code | NHM003 |
ISIN No | ZAG000129032 |
Coupon | 11.025% |
Interest Period | 11 December 2017 to 8 March 2018 |
Interest Amount Due | R6 645 205.48 |
Payment Date | 9 March 2018 |
Date Convention | Modified Following Business Day |
06 March 2018
Debt Sponsor
One Capital
- 23 Feb 2018
Sustained progress and steady performance at Northam
Northam Platinum today issued results for the first half-year of the 2018 financial year.
Johannesburg, Friday, 23 February 2018. Northam Platinum today issued results for the first half-year of the 2018 financial year.
KEY FEATURES
- Group LTIIR improved by 15.8% to 1.01
- Steady operational progress
- Equivalent 4E refined metal from own operations up 4.7%% to 246 473oz
- Revenue increased by 3.1% to R26 516/Pt oz sold
- Unit cash costs well contained at R20 851/Pt oz
- Execution of growth strategy on track – capex at R2.6 billion
- New 20MW furnace commissioned
- Booysendal South absorbed R940 million capex
- Tumela transaction concluded for consideration of R1.0 billion
Financial overview
Refined metal production from group operations increased to 246 473oz (H1 F2017: 235 375oz), pointing to a sound operational effort at the group’s operations.
Sales volumes in the period were lower, reflecting the continued build-up of inventory ahead of the commissioning of the new furnace at the Zondereinde metallurgical complex. The lower volumes, along with a stronger South African currency (ZAR13.43/USD cf to H1 F2017: R13.99/USD) over the period, had a predictable effect on sales revenues, which dropped marginally to R3.4 billion (H1 F2017: R3.5 billion).
Despite significant US dollar price increases for palladium and rhodium, revenue from platinum, which constitutes approximately 60% of the production basket, dropped by 17.8%, resulting in a lower average market price achieved.
Operating costs for mining and concentrating increased by 10.6% to R2.4 billion (H1 F2017: R2.2 billion) and 12.1% to R347.0 million (H1 F2017: R309.6 million) respectively, owing to labour and power cost increases and the expenditure associated with commissioning the dense media separation (DMS) plant at Booysendal mine.
The group operating profit was down by 3.8% to R338.8 million, with the operating margin largely unchanged from the previous period at 10.1% (H1 F2017: 10.2%).
Operating cash flows were negative to the value of R562.7 million (H1 F2017: positive R216.4 million) owing to the high inventory levels and prepayments resulting in higher working capital requirements. The high level of inventory is expected to normalise during H2 F2018 given the recent commissioning of the new furnace as concentrate is processed through this new facility.
Cash utilised in investing activities rose by 181.6% to R2.2 billion (H1 F2017: R778.0 million) reflecting the intensity of the group’s capital expenditure programme as production is expanded in line with the growth strategy. The major spend has been on the new 20MW furnace at Zondereinde, which is now complete and commissioned, the acquisition of the Tumela block and the development of Booysendal South mine.
Group performance
Milled tonnages from the combined operations increased by 3.7% to 2.3 million tonnes. Both Zondereinde and Booysendal contributed to the increase and the 4.7% improvement in PGM production to 246 000 ounces. Purchased metal also picked up year on year to 30 000 ounces with two additional long term customers secured. “We intend to grow our third party smelting business over the next year or two,” said CEO Paul Dunne, “thereby taking advantage of the increase in furnace capacity.”
The smelter constraints continued to impact refined metal production, which was lower by 9% at 212 000oz. Refined metal production is expected to increase significantly in the second half.
The production of chrome concentrate increased by 10% to 311 000 tonnes in line with the higher UG2 tonnages milled at both operations. This is an important revenue stream for Northam.
Zondereinde operations
Year-on-year tonnages at Zondereinde were largely unchanged at 1 136 541 tonnes with the UG2’s contribution 10.2% higher at 673 042 tonnes, and the Merensky tonnages 9.6% lower at 463 499 tonnes. With the increase in the higher grade P2 reef mined, the Merensky head grade increased to 6.1g/t. Equivalent refined metal production was 5.7% higher at 152 487oz. Third party concentrate added 4E equivalent metal of 27 561oz (H1 F2017: 14 179oz) to on-mine production.
Zondereinde continues to be impacted by the constrained availability of Merensky reef. The Tumela block is expected to improve the availability of Merensky mining face over the next two years as new reserves are established.
With plans being put in place to access and develop the Tumela block, the permanent workforce has been increased by 6%. The combination of higher costs and volumes translated into a 9.0% increase in unit cash costs per equivalent refined platinum ounce to R21 775/oz (H1: F2017 R19 980/oz).
With a significant increase in metal inventory Zondereinde’s operating profit fell to R155 million. “We believe,” commented Northam’s Dunne, “that Zondereinde remains in a competitive cost position.”
The on-mine capital expenditure for the year was R1.4 billion which included the R1.0 billion payment for the Tumela resource. R94 million was spent on sustaining capex. Forecast capex for the remainder of the financial year is R162 million for expansion capex and R205 million for sustaining capex.
Zondereinde’s total resource estimate increased to 102.59 million oz (Moz) (F2017: 83.98Moz), owing to the inclusion of the Tumela block resources acquired.
Booysendal operations
Tonnages from the UG2 mine declined by 1.8% to 1 190 215 tonnes milled (H1 F2017: 1 212 281 tonnes) at a constant head grade of 2.7 g/t. Given some teething problems associated with the start-up of the DMS plant, the overall plant recovery declined. Operating the DMS will enable the processing of higher mined tonnages with a marginal overall recovery sacrifice.
Chrome produced for the current period was 144 382 tonnes (H1 F2017: 138 635 tonnes), a 4.1% increase, while metal in concentrate dropped marginally to 98 900oz.
Booysendal operating costs increased by 5.8% to R1.0 billion (H1 F2017: R948.8 million). The cash cost per equivalent 4Eoz in concentrate is R9 938 (H1 F2017: R9 218). This equates to a cash cost per platinum oz of R16 459/oz (H1 F2017: R15 271/oz), an increase of 7.8%.
Capital expenditure at Booysendal reached R1.2 billion for the period (H1 F2017: R330.0 million) with R1.1 billion on project expenditure and R25.2 million on sustaining expenditure. In addition, R140.2 million was prepaid for the construction of the aerial rope conveyor system. The estimated expansionary and sustaining capital expenditure for the remainder of F2018 will be R690.7 million and R72.0 million respectively.
Issued by
R&A Strategic Communications
Johannesburg
Tel +27 (0)11 880 3924
Marion Brower +27 71 493 0387
Jan Walker +27 71 493 0429
- 23 Feb 2018
Northam consolidates strategy of optimisation and operational diversification
Looking back at the company’s performance over the first half-year of F2018, chief executive Paul Dunne referred to a “rewarding period, as the Northam team further consolidated the company’s strategy of optimisation and operational diversification.
Johannesburg, Friday 23 February 2018. Looking back at the company’s performance over the first half-year of F2018, chief executive Paul Dunne referred to a “rewarding period, as the Northam team further consolidated the company’s strategy of optimisation and operational diversification.
“This approach has been fundamental to growing our business and developing a suite of sustainable and long-life mining assets that deliver benefits to all our stakeholders.”
The effect of higher US dollar basket prices, buoyed particularly by rises in the prices of palladium and rhodium, was largely offset by the strengthening South African currency, which kept the increase in the rand basket price to 4.1%. Although Dunne was confident that the platinum price would recover, with an anticipated rise in demand in line with global economic growth, he emphasised the company’s unwavering approach to containing costs, which he described as “fundamental to our sustainability”.
“We believe we have maintained, and continue to strive to maintain our relative position in the lower half of the industry cost curve.”
There were significant developments at both the group’s producing assets, Zondereinde and Booysendal. At Zondereinde preparations are being made to access the new Tumela ground on the mine’s western boundary, while the stoping width at Booysendal was also optimised. The dense media separation plant was commissioned and construction and development of the central complex and aerial rope conveyor at the south section proceeded apace.
The commissioning of the new furnace at the Zondereinde metallurgical complex in December represents a step change to Northam’s prospects and fortunes. The enlarged smelter complex is pivotal to the group’s growth strategy, in that it
- supports the Booysendal expansion programme
- has the flexibility to handle and process higher UG2 volumes
- immediately raises the group’s processing capacity to more than 1 million PGM ounces; and
- significantly reduces our operational risk.
“As the new furnace is steadily ramped up to its full capacity, it will allow the processing of excess concentrate stocks, thereby reducing inventory and providing a boost to revenue in the second half of the financial year,” said Dunne.
Referring to the group’s acquisitions and the focus on core business, Dunne pointed out that the Tumela transaction had been concluded, that the group had purchased a metals recycling asset in Pennsylvania, in the USA and had disposed of its 7.5% holding in the Pandora joint venture. After the end of the period the acquisition of Eland was also finalised.
Dunne concluded by pointing out that the next six months would be one of project execution and bedding down the recently acquired assets.
Issued by
R&A Strategic Communications
Johannesburg
Tel +27 (0)11 880 3924
Marion Brower +27 71 493 0387
Jan Walker +27 71 493 0429
- 15 Feb 2018
Second furnace comes into play at Northam
Another expansion initiative completed
Northam Platinum chief executive Paul Dunne today hosted a senior delegation from Heraeus Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG (Heraeus) and Heraeus South Africa Proprietary Limited (HSA) at the opening of the smelter complex expansion at the group's Zondereinde mine near Thabazimbi in the Limpopo province.
Another expansion initiative completed
Johannesburg, Thursday, 15 February 2018. Northam Platinum chief executive Paul Dunne today hosted a senior delegation from Heraeus Deutschland GmbH & Co. KG (Heraeus) and Heraeus South Africa Proprietary Limited (HSA) at the opening of the smelter complex expansion at the group's Zondereinde mine near Thabazimbi in the Limpopo province.
The smelter opening and launch of the second furnace at the group's metallurgical complex marks a major milestone in Northam's strategic growth initiatives, and underpins the renewal of the companies' long-term strategic partnership. In terms of an agreement struck in October 2015, Heraeus contributed an amount of €20 million to the Northam smelter expansion programme, and the parties committed to the following:
- an extension of the their existing 30-year partnership;
- Heraeus to continue to refine Northam's PGM concentrates at competitive terms; and
- Northam undertakes to make up to 40% of its refined precious metals available for sale to Heraeus.
Paul Dunne said: "Today we are celebrating the fruits of a mutually beneficial, long-standing business partnership between our companies. For Northam, the addition of a second furnace at Zondereinde is a critical element of our group's strategic growth in that it:
- supports the expansion programme at Booysendal;
- has the flexibility to handle and process the higher volumes from Zondereinde;
- immediately raises the group's processing capacity to more than 1 million PGM ounces; and
- significantly reduces our operational risk."
The new 20MW furnace will provide the additional capacity required to treat the growing volumes from Zondereinde, Booysendal and those of Eland when it starts producing. It has been designed to be used as a pure UG2 furnace to accommodate the higher UG2 ore percentages or as a conventional Merensky/UG2 furnace. The new furnace incorporates a number of advances in the area of PGM smelting. These include extended refractory lining life expectancy, metal containment and cooling, along with best practice in terms of monitoring, tapping and furnace control functions.
Heraeus Precious Metals President André Christl commented: "As Heraeus Precious Metals grows and innovates the precious metals industry, we want to partner with companies that share that same ambition. Northam Platinum has demonstrated that for the past 30 years, and we're delighted this new smelter puts our partnership on the path to a 50-year golden anniversary in 2038."
Heraeus media release:
Heraeus investment in Northam Platinum's state-of-the-art platinum smelter in South Africa strengthens its global supplier network
Source: Heraeus Precious Metals
NOTE TO EDITORS
Heraeus is a leading international technology group headquartered in Hanau, Germany. The company's business is to create high-quality solutions for its customers and to strengthen their long-term competitiveness by combining material expertise with technological know-how.
The portfolio ranges from components to co-ordinated material systems, which are used in a wide variety of applications in the steel, electronics, chemical, automotive and telecommunications industries.
In the 2016 financial year, Heraeus generated revenues of €21.5 billion. The group employs approximately 12,400 employees worldwide in more than 100 subsidiaries in 38 countries and Heraeus holds a leading position in its global markets.
Issued by
R&A Strategic Communications
Johannesburg
Tel +27 (0)11 880 3924
Marion Brower: +27 71 493 0387
Jan Walker: +27 71 493 0429
Johannesburg
15 February 2018
- 09 Feb 2018
Trading statement
Shareholders are advised that the group’s loss per share for the period ended 31 December 2017 is estimated to range between 77.7 cents per share and 90.7 cents per share and the headline loss per share is estimated to range between 77.6 cents per share and 90.5 cents per share, compared with the loss per share of 64.8 cents and headline loss per share of 64.7 cents reported for the period ended 31 December 2016. The aforementioned ranges expressed in percentage terms, are, in respect of both the loss per share and headline earnings per share, an increase of 20% and 40% per share.
Shareholders are advised that the group’s loss per share for the period ended 31 December 2017 is estimated to range between 77.7 cents per share and 90.7 cents per share and the headline loss per share is estimated to range between 77.6 cents per share and 90.5 cents per share, compared with the loss per share of 64.8 cents and headline loss per share of 64.7 cents reported for the period ended 31 December 2016. The aforementioned ranges expressed in percentage terms, are, in respect of both the loss per share and headline earnings per share, an increase of 20% and 40% per share.
The anticipated loss is attributable to the Zambezi Platinum (RF) Limited (“Zambezi”) preference share dividends, which are consolidated in the group’s results in terms of the International Financial Reporting Standards. The Zambezi preference shares accrue dividends at a cumulative variable dividend of 3.5% over the prime overdraft interest rate in South Africa. Shareholders are reminded that 159 905 453 Northam shares are held for settlement of the Zambezi preference share liability in terms of the Northam guarantee and the accrued dividends are consolidated into the Northam results as a non cash item for Northam.
Although the platinum mining industry has experienced difficult economic conditions during the reporting period, both of the group’s operating mines, Zondereinde and Booysendal, are expected to record an operating profit.
The weighted average number of Northam shares in issue for the period ended 31 December 2017 was 349 875 759 (31 December 2016: 349 875 759 shares).
The information on which this trading statement and trading update is based has not been reviewed or reported on by the group’s external auditors. The reviewed interim results for the period ended 31 December 2017 are anticipated to be published on or about 23 February 2018.
Issued by
R&A Strategic Communications
Johannesburg
Tel +27 (0)11 880 3924
Marion Brower: +27 71 493 0387
Jan Walker: +27 71 493 0429
Johannesburg
9 February 2018
Sponsor and Debt Sponsor
One Capital
- 30 Jan 2018
Northam finalises Eland deal
Northam is pleased to advise that its acquisition of the Eland platinum mine (Eland) from Glencore Operations South Africa (Pty) Limited (Glencore) has been finalised and has become unconditional.
Johannesburg, Tuesday 30 January 2018. Northam is pleased to advise that its acquisition of the Eland platinum mine (Eland) from Glencore Operations South Africa (Pty) Limited (Glencore) has been finalised and has become unconditional.
Northam first advised shareholders of the acquisition of Eland on 24 February 2017 for a cash consideration of R175 million which secures full ownership of the Eland mine and infrastructure, through Eland Platinum, a wholly-owned Northam subsidiary.
Northam will operate Eland Platinum on a fully integrated mine to market basis. PGM concentrate produced at Eland mine will be processed at Northam’s Zondereinde smelter complex.
Paul Dunne, Northam’s Chief Executive Officer, said “Northam is well advanced in developing its mine plan for Eland and is looking forward to recommissioning the mine to unlock the potential of this large, shallow resource with fully developed infrastructure. The Eland transaction further diversifies Northam’s asset footprint and significantly enhances the long-term optionality and flexibility of Northam’s asset portfolio.”
Issued by
R&A Strategic Communications
Johannesburg
Tel +27 (0)11 880 3924
Marion Brower +27 71 493 0387
Jan Walker +27 71 493 0429
- 30 Jan 2018
Acquisition of Eland Platinum mine becomes unconditional
Northam shareholders are referred to the announcement published on SENS on 24 February 2017 in respect of the acquisition by Northam of the Eland Platinum mine, for a cash consideration of R175 million (the “Eland transaction”), subject to the fulfilment of certain conditions precedent.
Northam shareholders are referred to the announcement published on SENS on 24 February 2017 in respect of the acquisition by Northam of the Eland Platinum mine, for a cash consideration of R175 million (the “Eland transaction”), subject to the fulfilment of certain conditions precedent.
Northam is pleased to announce that the Eland transaction has become unconditional. Northam will acquire full ownership of the Eland mine and ancillary infrastructure via Eland Platinum (Pty) Limited (“Eland Platinum”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Northam.
Northam will operate Eland Platinum on a fully integrated mine to market basis. PGM concentrate produced at Eland mine will be beneficiated at Northam’s Zondereinde smelter complex.
Paul Dunne, Northam’s Chief Executive Officer, said “Northam is well advanced in developing its mine plan for Eland and is looking forward to recommissioning the mine to unlock the potential of this large, shallow resource. The Eland transaction further diversifies Northam’s asset footprint and significantly enhances the long-term optionality and flexibility of Northam’s asset portfolio.”
Johannesburg
30 January 2018
Corporate Advisor, Sponsor and Debt Sponsor: One Capital
Attorneys: Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Inc.
- 03 Jan 2018
Dealings in securities
In compliance with paragraphs 3.63 to 3.66 of the JSE Limited Listings Requirements (“Listings Requirements”), Northam advises its shareholders of the following dealing by an associate of a director of a major subsidiary of the company:
In compliance with paragraphs 3.63 to 3.66 of the JSE Limited Listings Requirements (“Listings Requirements”), Northam advises its shareholders of the following dealing by an associate of a director of a major subsidiary of the company:
Name of director of major subsidiary | Leon Charl van Schalkwyk |
Name of associate | C van Schalkwyk |
Relationship with director | Wife of Mr van Schalkwyk |
Name of major subsidiary | Booysendal Platinum Proprietary Limited |
Nature of transaction | Indirect purchase of shares |
Class of shares | Ordinary shares |
Date of transaction | 28 December 2017 |
Price per ordinary share | Various different trades with the following price information: - volume weighted average price of R51.96; - highest price of R52.45; and - lowest price of R51.65 |
Total number of ordinary shares | 31 525 |
Value of transaction | R1 638 021.23 |
Nature and extent of director’s interest | Indirect beneficial |
Transaction completed on market | Yes |
Clearance obtained in terms of paragraph 3.66 of the Listings Requirements | Yes |
Johannesburg
03 January 2018
Sponsor and Debt Sponsor
One Capital
- 02 Jan 2018
Dealings in securities
In compliance with paragraphs 3.63 to 3.66 of the JSE Limited Listings Requirements (“Listings Requirements”), Northam advises its shareholders of the following dealing by an associate of a director of a major subsidiary of the company:
In compliance with paragraphs 3.63 to 3.66 of the JSE Limited Listings Requirements (“Listings Requirements”), Northam advises its shareholders of the following dealing by an associate of a director of a major subsidiary of the company:
Name of director of major subsidiary | Leon Charl van Schalkwyk |
Name of associate | C van Schalkwyk |
Relationship with director | Wife of Mr van Schalkwyk |
Name of major subsidiary | Booysendal Platinum Proprietary Limited |
Nature of transaction | Indirect purchase of shares |
Class of shares | Ordinary shares |
Date of transaction | 27 December 2017 |
Price per ordinary share | Various different trades with the following price information: - volume weighted average price of R48.92; - highest price of R49.00; and - lowest price of R48.90 |
Total number of ordinary shares | 23 572 |
Value of transaction | R1 153 130.14 |
Nature and extent of director’s interest | Indirect beneficial |
Transaction completed on market | Yes |
Clearance obtained in terms of paragraph 3.66 of the Listings Requirements | Yes |
Purchase of Zambezi Platinum (RF) Limited (“Zambezi Platinum”) preference shares (“preference shares”)
In terms of the Northam broad-based economic empowerment transaction implemented on 18 May 2015, Zambezi Platinum holds ordinary shares in Northam. Pursuant to the preference share terms, Zambezi Platinum is entitled to elect to settle the preference share redemption amount in cash, Northam ordinary shares or a combination thereof.
Accordingly, in compliance with paragraphs 3.63 to 3.66 of the Listings Requirements, Northam advises its shareholders of the following dealing by an associate of a director of a major subsidiary of the company and of Zambezi Platinum:
Name of director of major subsidiary | Leon Charl van Schalkwyk |
Name of associate | C van Schalkwyk |
Relationship with director | Wife of Mr van Schalkwyk |
Name of major subsidiary | Booysendal Platinum Proprietary Limited |
Nature of transaction | Indirect purchase of preference shares |
Class of shares | Preference shares |
Date of transaction | 22 December 2017 |
Price per preference share | R59.00 |
Total number of ordinary shares | 47 preference shares |
Value of transaction | R2 773.00 |
Nature and extent of director’s interest | Indirect beneficial interest in Zambezi Platinum resulting in an indirect exposure to Northam ordinary shares |
Transaction completed on market | Yes |
Clearance obtained in terms of paragraph 3.66 of the Listings Requirements | Yes |
Johannesburg
02 January 2018
Sponsor and Debt Sponsor
One Capital