Teck Resources Reports Strong Q3 Profit But Lowers Copper Production Forecast

Teck Resources, a leading Canadian miner, reported a significant profit in the third quarter, surpassing analysts' expectations. This positive performance was driven by increased copper production at its Chilean mine and robust copper prices, despite the company lowering its full-year copper production forecast due to operational challenges.

Key Takeaways

• Teck Resources reported an adjusted profit of C$0.60 per share, exceeding the expected C$0.37.
• Copper prices rose approximately 11.7% year-over-year, averaging around $4.21 per pound.
• The Quebrada Blanca mine in Chile achieved record production, contributing to a 60% increase in copper output.
• The company has cut its full-year copper production forecast for the second consecutive time, now expecting 420,000 to 455,000 tons.
• Teck has returned over $1.3 billion to shareholders this year while reducing debt.

Strong Q3 Performance

Teck Resources reported an adjusted profit of C$0.60 ($0.4340) per share for the quarter ending September 30, significantly higher than the analysts' average estimate of C$0.37 per share. This impressive performance was largely attributed to higher copper production volumes at its Quebrada Blanca mine in Chile, which saw record output during the quarter.

The company benefited from elevated copper prices, which were buoyed by optimism regarding Chinese demand following various stimulus measures from Beijing. The long-term outlook for copper remains positive, driven by its essential role in the global energy transition.

Record Production at Quebrada Blanca

The Quebrada Blanca mine played a crucial role in Teck's quarterly success. The mine reported record production levels, contributing to a remarkable 60% increase in copper output, totaling 115,000 metric tons. This surge in production highlights the effectiveness of Teck's operational ramp-up at the site.

Revised Production Forecast

Despite the strong quarterly performance, Teck Resources has revised its full-year copper production forecast downward for the second time. The company cited labor issues and mining delays at its Highland Valley Copper mine in Canada as the primary reasons for this adjustment. Teck now anticipates full-year copper production to be between 420,000 and 455,000 tons, down from the previous guidance of 435,000 to 500,000 tons.

Strategic Transition

In a significant strategic move, Teck Resources sold a 77% interest in its steelmaking coal unit to Swiss miner Glencore Plc earlier this year. This deal, one of the largest in the mining industry, was completed in July and is part of Teck's transition into a pure-play energy transition metals company. CEO Jonathan Price emphasized the company's commitment to this transition, stating, "We have returned more than $1.3 billion to shareholders so far this year, while also reducing debt and ramping up copper production."

Conclusion

Teck Resources' third-quarter results reflect a strong performance driven by increased copper production and favorable market conditions. However, the company's decision to lower its full-year production forecast highlights the challenges it faces in maintaining operational efficiency. As Teck continues its strategic transition, stakeholders will be keenly watching how these changes impact future performance and shareholder returns.

Sources

• Teck Resources reports Q3 profit beat, cuts FY copper production forecast, Yahoo Finance Canada.