Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 6-K filing by Gold Fields Limited covers the month of March 2009, with the report dated March 11, 2009. Gold Fields is a major unhedged gold producer with operations in South Africa, Ghana, Australia, and Peru. The company is listed on the JSE, NYSE, NASDAQ Dubai, NYX, and SWX.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing text does not provide specific financial values for revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity for the reporting period. The document focuses on corporate governance updates and operational capacity rather than financial performance data.
Material Changes and Operational Updates
- Board Appointments: Ms. Cheryl Carolus and Mr. Roberto Dañino were appointed to the Board of Directors, effective March 10, 2009.
- Production Capacity: The company reported attributable production of 3.64 million ounces per annum from eight operating mines.
- New Mine Operations: The Cerro Corona Gold/Copper mine in Peru commenced production in August 2008 at an initial rate of approximately 375,000 gold equivalent ounces per annum.
- Reserves: Total attributable ore reserves stand at 83 million ounces, with mineral resources of 251 million ounces.
Guidance, Outlook, and Management Commentary
Gold Fields aims to reach a production rate of approximately 4.0 million ounces per annum during the March quarter of 2009. The filing highlights the diverse backgrounds of the new board members, including Ms. Carolus's experience in South African politics and tourism, and Mr. Dañino's legal and governmental experience in Peru and international finance.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the actual production figures for the March 2009 quarter to confirm if the 4.0 million ounce target was met.
- Review the full annual report (Form 20-F) for detailed financial statements, as this 6-K does not contain revenue or profit data.
- Assess the impact of the new board appointments on corporate strategy, particularly regarding the Peruvian operations given Mr. Dañino's background.
- Monitor the operational performance of the Cerro Corona mine to ensure it meets the projected 375,000 ounce equivalent annual rate.