What You Need To Know
RBC Capital Markets has upgraded SSR Mining’s stock rating from Underperform to Sector Perform, increasing the price target from $5.50 to $8.00. The anticipated completion of the Cripple Creek & Victor Mine by the first quarter of 2025 is expected to enhance SSR Mining's net asset value by 20%, thereby reducing downside risk.
The company's valuation is improving, supported by rising commodity prices and consistent cash flow from its assets. However, there remains uncertainty about the operations in Turkey, particularly concerning costs and production timelines. An independent review identified a design flaw as the cause of a heap leach failure at the Çöpler Mine, where no definitive timeline for a restart has been released.
The Marigold Mine continues to be productive with 5 million ounces of gold produced, with $10 million earmarked for 2024 to extend its lifespan. The company estimates remediation costs for Çöpler to be between $250 million and $300 million over the next two to three years. Operations at the Çöpler Mine are expected to resume shortly after receiving regulatory approval. In Q3 2024, SSR Mining produced 97,000 gold equivalent ounces but reported a negative cash flow of $1 million.
Sign up for Investing Intel Newsletter
Get the latest news and updates from our team.
Why This Is Important for Retail Investors
Upgrades from analysts can signal potential future stock performance, guiding retail investors in making informed decisions.
Understanding the impact of operations and market conditions helps investors gauge the reliability of the company’s earnings and growth prospects.
Monitoring significant projects, like the Cripple Creek & Victor Mine, can highlight opportunities for appreciation in asset value and profitability.
Awareness of risks, particularly in international operations such as Turkey, aids investors in assessing exposure and volatility.
Tracking costs and cash flows provides insight into the company’s financial health, enabling retail investors to align their portfolios with companies demonstrating stability and growth potential.
Relevant ETFs
Some investors prefer to invest in stocks via an exchange-traded fund for ease and reduced risk. Some relevant ETFs include the following:
GDX VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF
GDXJ VanEck Vectors Junior Gold Miners ETF
SIL Global X Silver Miners ETF
NUGT Direxion Daily Gold Miners Bull 2X Shares
DUST Direxion Daily Gold Miners Bear 2X Shares
HUI NYSE Arca Gold BUGS Index