Red Rock plummets on weak mine data
Red Rock Resources, the mining and exploration company, has released updated estimates for the amount, and type, of gold available at its El Limon mine in Colombia.
Red Rock Resources, the mining and exploration company, has released updated estimates for the amount, and type, of gold available at its El Limon mine in Colombia.
The firm admits, however, these estimates "have been completed without independent verification and without the use of modern ...methodologies."
In other words investors need to be very careful about assigning too much credence to the numbers.
Subscribe to 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
The current estimated total at the mine is 32,219 tonnes of "mineralised material". Red Rock says the margin for error could be as high as 10%.
Because of the way these estimates have been compiled, the numbers cannot be declared "JORC Compliant" - that is the standard by which mineral deposits are usually judged. In addition, the company cannot claim them as "resources" in its balance sheet.
In today's update Red Rock says "there can be no assurance that the predicted production can be realised."
It also says: "there is as yet limited understanding of gold grade variation within the vein".
In the next six months the plan is to try and keep El Limon going through development and "in-mine exploration".
How much this will cost is not stated but Red Rock says: "The new mine team is optimistic that the exploration and development planned over the next six months will define ore extensions to allow as much as a further 18 months of operations before production is required from below the already established Level 7."
They are certainly trying to squeeze as much production out of the facility as possible but investors are wary.
Since the open today Red Rock shares have fallen 8%. Since the beginning of this year the stock is down 78%.
BS
Sign up to Money Morning
Our team, led by award winning editors, is dedicated to delivering you the top news, analysis, and guides to help you manage your money, grow your investments and build wealth.
-
8 of the best properties for sale with outstanding kitchens
The best properties for sale with outstanding kitchens – from a Queen Anne house in Nottinghamshire to a Georgian house in Worcestershire
By Natasha Langan Published
-
Christmas at Chatsworth: review of The Cavendish Hotel at Baslow
MoneyWeek Travel Matthew Partridge gets into the festive spirit at The Cavendish Hotel at Baslow and the Christmas market at Chatsworth
By Dr Matthew Partridge Published