Shares in gold miner Centamin were down sharply on Monday after it warned exports from its suspended Egypt operation were needed soon to ensure it met working capital commitments.
The company stopped gold exports after an Egyptian court declared its Sukari mining concession void.
That ruling was subsequently changed but problems remain after Centamin failed to disclose the necessary written approval from a government minister (Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources) to the court.
MoneyWeek
Subscribe to MoneyWeek today and get your first six magazine issues absolutely FREE
Sign up to Money Morning
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Don't miss the latest investment and personal finances news, market analysis, plus money-saving tips with our free twice-daily newsletter
Therefore the court deemed the company could not yet have its "exploitation lease".
Sukari is Centamin's primary source of revenue in Egypt.
The firm has now filed an appeal against the judgement through its subsidiary Pharaoh Gold Mines.
"The company took the decision to suspend gold exports pending the lodgement of the appeal," its statement said.
"As the appeal is now being lodged we are preparing to resume exports.
"The company manages its working capital in country through gold sales and consequently a gold shipment is required shortly to ensure that on-going working capital commitments can be met."
That note of urgency seemed to scare investors, who pushed shares down 7.5% by 09:00.
Get the latest financial news, insights and expert analysis from our award-winning MoneyWeek team, to help you understand what really matters when it comes to your finances.
MoneyWeek is written by a team of experienced and award-winning journalists, plus expert columnists. As well as daily digital news and features, MoneyWeek also publishes a weekly magazine, covering investing and personal finance. From share tips, pensions, gold to practical investment tips - we provide a round-up to help you make money and keep it.
-
Why it’s time to look to the market for retirement savings -
Two million taxpayers to be hit by £100k tax trap by 2026/27Frozen thresholds mean more people than ever are set to pay an effective income tax rate of 60% as their earnings increase beyond £100,000. We look at why, as well as how you can avoid being caught in the trap.
