On May 16, 2003, AngloGold and Ashanti confirmed that they were in discussions regarding a proposed business combination of the two companies and on August 4, 2003, the companies announced that they had agreed on the terms of a recommended business combination (the "Business Combination"), the combined entity to be named AngloGold Ashanti Limited. For a detailed discussion of AngloGold's Business Combination with Ashanti, including a description of the contractual arrangements in connection with the Business Combination and overview of Ashanti's business, see Item "4A.: History and development of the company-Overview of the AngloGold-Ashanti Business Combination".
The selected financial information for the year ended December 31, 2000 and for previous years under "Item 3A.: Selected financial data" have been translated from South African rands into United States dollars in accordance with the provisions of Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No. 52 "Foreign Currency Translation" (SFAS52) as issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board of the United States (FASB).
In this annual report, references to rands, ZAR and R are to the lawful currency of the Republic of South Africa, references to US dollars or $ are to the lawful currency of the United States and references to AUD dollars and A$ are to the lawful currency of Australia.
See "Item 3A.: Selected financial data - Exchange rate information" for historical information regarding the noon buying rate in the City of New York for cable transfers in rands as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. On March 15, 2004, the noon buying rate was R6.6925 = $1.00.
The Minorco, Acacia, Morila, Geita and the Cerro Vanguardia acquisitions have each been accounted for as a purchase business combination under US GAAP, and the US GAAP financial statements only reflect the acquired entities and assets from the effective date of their acquisition. Accordingly, the operations and financial condition of the companies and assets acquired from Minorco are included in the US GAAP financial statements from April 1, 1999, and the financial condition of the companies and assets acquired from Acacia are reflected in the US GAAP balance sheet as at December 31, 1999 and their operations and financial condition are included in the US GAAP financial statements from 2000. The operations and financial condition of the interests in the companies and assets acquired in Geita are only reflected in the US GAAP balance sheet as at December 31, 2000 and are included for the whole year in the US GAAP financial statements for the year ended and as at December 31, 2001. The operations and financial condition of the interests in the companies and assets acquired in Morila are included in the US GAAP financial statements from October 18, 2000. In addition, the operations and financial condition of AngloGold's interests in the Deelkraal and Elandsrand mines that were sold during 2001 are reflected in the US GAAP financial statements only through January 31, 2001, the effective date of the sale. The operations and financial condition of AngloGold's interests in the Free State mines that were sold effective January 1, 2002 are reflected in the US GAAP financial statements only through December 31, 2001. The operations and financial condition of the additional 46.25 percent interest acquired in Cerro Vanguardia are included in the US GAAP financial statements from July 1, 2002. The operations and financial condition of AngloGold's interests in its wholly-owned subsidiary, Stone and Allied Industries, that were sold effective October 1, 2002 are reflected in the US GAAP financial statements only through September 30, 2002. The financial condition of AngloGold's interests in its wholly-owned Amapari Project, that were sold effective May 19, 2003 are reflected in the US GAAP financial statements only through May 18, 2003. The financial condition of AngloGold's 49 percent stake in the Gawler Craton Joint Venture that was sold effective June 6, 2003 are reflected in the US GAAP financial statements only through June 5, 2003. The operations and financial condition of AngloGold's interest in the Jerritt Canyon Joint Venture that was sold effective June 30, 2003, are reflected in the US GAAP financial statements only through June 29, 2003. Therefore such financial statements are not necessarily indicative of AngloGold's financial condition or results of operations for any future periods. For a discussion of the acquisitions mentioned above, see "Item 4A.: History and development of the company" and "Item 4B.: Business Overview - Products, operations and geographic locations".
Under the terms of AngloGold's new articles of association adopted on December 5, 2002, dividends may be declared in any currency at the discretion of the AngloGold Board or AngloGold shareholders at a general meeting. Currently, dividends are declared in South African rands and paid in Australian dollars, South African rands and United Kingdom pounds. Dividends paid to registered holders of AngloGold ADSs are paid in US dollars converted from South African rands by The Bank of New York, as depositary, in accordance with the deposit agreement. For details on exchange controls applicable to holders of ordinary shares or ADSs, see "Item 10D.: Exchange controls".
Exchange rate information
The following table sets forth for the periods and dates indicated certain information concerning the noon buying rate in New York City for cable transfers as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York expressed in rands per $1.00. On March 15, 2004, the noon buying rate between rands and US dollars was R6.6925 = $1.00.
Year ended December 31
The risk factors set forth in this document have been organized into three categories:
The market price for gold can fluctuate widely. These fluctuations are caused by numerous factors beyond AngloGold's control, including:
The following table presents the annual high, low and average afternoon fixing prices over the past 10 years, expressed in US dollars, for gold per ounce, on the London Bullion Market:
For further information on this and other non-GAAP measures, see Item "5A.: Operating Results-Total cash costs and total production costs".
Gold companies face many risks related to their operations (including their exploration and development activities) that may affect their cash flows and overall profitability.
Uncertainty and cost of mineral exploration and acquisitions. Exploration activities are speculative and are often unproductive. These activities also often require substantial expenditure to:
AngloGold considers from time to time the acquisition of Ore Reserves, development properties and operating mines, either as stand-alone assets or as part of companies. Its decisions to acquire these properties have historically been based on a variety of factors including historical operating results, estimates of and assumptions about future reserves, cash and other operating costs, metal prices and projected economic returns and evaluations of existing or potential liabilities associated with the property and its operations. Other than historical operating results, all of these parameters may differ significantly from its estimates and assumptions. In addition, there is intense competition for attractive properties.
As a result of these uncertainties, the exploration programs and acquisitions engaged in by AngloGold may not result in the expansion or replacement of the current production with new Ore Reserves or operations. This could adversely affect its ongoing business and financial position.
Development risks. AngloGold's profitability depends, in part, on the actual economic returns and the actual costs of developing mines, which may differ significantly from its current estimates. The development of its mining projects may be subject to unexpected problems and delays.
AngloGold's decision to develop a mineral property is typically based, in the case of an extension or, in the case of a new development, on the results of a feasibility study. Feasibility studies estimate the expected or anticipated project economic returns. These estimates are based on assumptions about:
Ore Reserve estimation risks. AngloGold's Ore Reserves described in this document are the best estimates of AngloGold's current management as of the dates stated and are reported in accordance with the requirements of the SEC's Industry Guide 7. In Australia and South Africa, AngloGold is legally required to publicly report Ore Reserves and Mineral Resources in accordance with the Australasian Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves ("JORC Code") and the South African Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves ("SAMREC Code"), respectively. SEC's Industry Guide 7 does not recognize mineral resources. Accordingly, AngoGold does not report estimates of mineral resources in this annual report on Form 20-F.
Both AngloGold and Ashanti undertake annual revisions to their respective Mineral Resource and Ore Reserve estimates based upon actual exploration and production results, depletion, new information and fluctuations in production and economic parameters. These factors may result in reductions in its Ore Reserve estimates, which could adversely impact upon the life of mine plans and consequently the total value of AngloGold's mining asset base and, as a result, have a negative impact upon the market price of AngloGold's ordinary shares and ADSs.
Mining industry risks. Gold mining is susceptible to numerous events that may have an adverse impact on a gold mining business. These events include, but are not limited to:
Gold mining operations are subject to extensive health and safety laws and regulations.
If these laws and regulations were to change and, if as a result, material additional expenditure was required to comply with such new laws and regulations, it could adversely affect AngloGold's financial position. For a discussion of the mine health and safety laws and regulations to which AngloGold's operations are subject, see Item "4B.: Business overview-Safety and health".
Gold mining companies are subject to extensive environmental laws and regulations.
Gold mining companies are subject to extensive environmental laws and regulations in the various jurisdictions in which they operate. These regulations establish limits and conditions on gold producers' ability to conduct their operations. The cost of AngloGold's compliance with environmental laws and regulations has been significant in the past.
Pursuant to environmental laws and regulations, gold mining companies are also obligated to close their operations and rehabilitate the lands that they mine in accordance with these laws and regulations. Estimates of the total ultimate closure and rehabilitation costs for gold mining operations are significant and based principally on current legal and regulatory requirements that may change materially. Environmental liabilities are accrued when they are known, probable and can be reasonably estimated. AngloGold intends to adhere to this policy following the Business Combination. AngloGold also intends to introduce its environmental controls and procedures, where required, across Ashanti's operations in order to align Ashanti's environmental controls and procedures with its own.
Environmental laws and regulations are continually changing and are generally becoming more restrictive. Moreover, the countries in which Ashanti operates do not currently have fully developed systems of environmental regulation. If AngloGold's environmental compliance obligations were to change as a result of changes in the laws and regulations (including, following the Business Combination, as a result of changes in the laws and regulations in the countries in which Ashanti operates) or in certain assumptions it makes to estimate liabilities, or if unanticipated conditions were to arise in its operations, its expenses and provisions would increase to reflect these changes. If material, these expenses and provisions could adversely affect its results of operations and financial position. For a discussion of the estimated cost of the future environmental rehabilitation obligations with respect thereto, see note 16 to the consolidated financial statements "Provision for environmental rehabilitation". Additionally, for a discussion of the effects of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act with respect to the additional responsibilities imposed on mining companies in South Africa in respect of the environment and rehabilitation, see "Changes to mineral rights ownership regimes in South Africa, where a significant portion of AngloGold's mineral reserves and deposits are located, could have a material impact on its financial position" below.
Risks related to AngloGold's operations
AngloGold faces many risks related to its operations that may affect its cash flows and overall profitability.
AngloGold's use of hedging instruments to protect against low gold prices and exchange rate movements may prevent it from realizing all potential gains resulting from subsequent gold price increases in the future.
AngloGold currently uses hedging instruments to fix the selling price of a portion of its respective anticipated gold production and to protect revenues against unfavorable gold price and exchange rate movements. While the use of these instruments may protect against a drop in gold prices and exchange rate movements, it will only do so for a limited period of time and only to the extent that the hedge remains in place. The use of these instruments may also prevent AngloGold from realizing the positive impact on income from any subsequent favorable increase in the price of gold on the portion of production covered by the hedge and of any subsequent favorable exchange rate movements. Ashanti also uses similar hedging instruments. As at December 31, 2003, AngloGold's and Ashanti's hedge books had a net delta of 8.6 million and 5.9 million ounces, respectively. As at December 31, 2003, AngloGold's and Ashanti's hedge books had negative marked-to-market valuations of $663.7 million and $609.6 million, respectively, including in each case, AngloGold's and Ashanti's respective 50 percent interests in the $154.9 million negative marked-to-market value of the Geita hedge book. For a discussion of AngloGold's hedging instruments, see Item "11.: Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk".
The Geita joint venture engages in hedging transactions with respect to production from the Geita mine. This hedging is carried out on a margin-free basis. However, if at any time the aggregate respective marked-to-market value of the Geita hedge book exceeds negative $165.38 million, AngloGold and Ashanti will be restricted from receiving cash from the joint venture until the marked-to-market negative value reduces below that threshold. The hedging arrangements also provide for events of default and termination that could result in early close-outs or a default of Geita's $66.25 million project finance facility. The threshold of $165.38 million will increase during the life of the Geita project finance facility as principal repayments under the facility are made and additional coverage becomes available under AngloGold's political risk insurance.
There is a risk that the Business Combination with Ashanti may not be implemented.
The Business Combination of AngloGold with Ashanti is subject to a number of conditions including the approval by the requisite majority of Ashanti shareholders of the Ghanaian Scheme of Arrangement and the relevant special resolution proposed at Ashanti's extraordinary general meeting, the confirmation of the Scheme by the High Court of Ghana, the receipt of certain regulatory approvals and third party consents and the absence of any material adverse change to the business, financial condition, results of operations, assets or liabilities of Ashanti since December 31, 2002 (other than as publicly disclosed or announced by Ashanti prior to the date of the Transaction Agreement). If the conditions to the Business Combination are not satisfied or, if permissible, waived on or before May 31, 2004 or such later date as may be agreed by AngloGold or Ashanti, AngloGold and Ashanti may terminate the Transaction Agreement, in which case the Scheme of Arrangement will not become effective and the Business Combination will not be completed. AngloGold and Ashanti are not obliged to extend the period for the satisfaction or, if permissible, waiver of the conditions to the Business Combination beyond May 31, 2004. Should the Business Combination not be completed, the anticipated benefits of the Business Combination will not be realized. Consequently, at this stage there is no guarantee that the conditions to the Business Combination will be satisfied and that the Business Combination will be completed.
If the development of the deep-level ore deposits at Obuasi mine is not economically feasible, there may be a material negative impact on AngloGold's operations and financial performance in the long-term.
A key aspect of AngloGold's rationale for the Business Combination is the development of the deep-level ore deposits at the Obuasi mine, which ore deposits are currently referred to as Obuasi Deeps. This development could potentially extend the life of this mine to well beyond 2040. In furtherance of this goal, AngloGold plans to invest approximately $44 million over the next five years on further exploration and necessary feasibility studies. Depending upon these results, the full development of Obuasi Deeps may proceed towards the end of this five year period, but could take several years to complete. Initial scoping studies have indicated that the development of Obuasi Deeps will require an estimated capital expenditure of $570 million in real terms over the anticipated life of the mine.
In the event that, as a result of this further exploration and upon the completion of these feasibility studies, AngloGold determines that the development of Obuasi Deeps is not economically feasible, such determination may have a material negative impact on its operations and financial performance in the long-term. The funding of the development of Obuasi Deeps will only proceed, if it is determined to be economically feasible.
In addition, if the feasibility study indicates that the development of Obuasi Deeps is economically feasible, the actual economic returns and the actual costs of development may differ significantly from the assumptions and estimates used in preliminary scoping studies completed to date, as well as in the feasibility studies completed following further exploration. This could have a negative impact on AngloGold's return on its investment in Obuasi Deeps and, as a result, AngloGold's long-term profitability following the Business Combination.
Benefits from integration of Ashanti's operations with AngloGold's may not be achieved to the extent or within the time period that is currently anticipated, and AngloGold may encounter costs and difficulties in integrating its operations with Ashanti's operations, which would reduce or delay the realization of increased revenues, cost savings and operational benefits.
Following the Business Combination, AngloGold intends to integrate its operations with those of Ashanti. Its goal in integrating these operations is to increase revenues and earnings and achieve cost savings through enhanced growth opportunities and synergies. AngloGold may encounter unanticipated costs and difficulties integrating its operations with Ashanti's operations and fail to achieve the cost savings, synergies and enhanced growth opportunities that it expects.
In addition, the need to deal with integration issues could also divert management's attention from day-to-day business.
Foreign exchange fluctuations could have a material impact on AngloGold's operating results and financial position.
Since June 2002, the weakening of the US dollar against the South African rand, and, to a lesser extent, the Brazilian real, the Argentinean peso and the Australian dollar has negatively impacted AngloGold's profitability. Conversely, in certain prior years, the devaluation of these local currencies against the US dollar has had a significant positive effect on the profitability of its operations. Typically, revenues are derived in US dollars and production costs are largely incurred in the relevant local currency. In 2003 and 2002, AngloGold derived approximately 77 and 73 percent, respectively, of its revenues from these countries and approximately 80 and 76 percent, respectively, of production costs in these local currencies. In 2003, the weakening of the US dollar against these local currencies accounted for nearly $47 per ounce, or 69 percent of the total increase in total cash costs compared with a decrease in 2002 of $24 per ounce. In addition, production costs in South African rand, Brazilian real, Argentinean peso and Australian dollar were only modestly offset by the effect of exchange rate movements on the price of imports denominated in US dollars, as imported products comprise a small proportion of production costs in each of these countries. AngloGold's product, gold, is principally a US dollar-priced commodity, and most of its revenues are realized in US dollars. The weakening of the US dollar, without a corresponding increase in the US dollar price of gold against these local currencies results in lower revenues and higher production costs in US dollar terms. Conversely, the strengthening of the US dollar, without a corresponding decrease in the US dollar price of gold, against these local currencies yields significantly higher revenues and lower production costs in US dollar terms. If material, these exchange rate movements may have an adverse impact on AngloGold's operating results. For example, due to the strengthening of the South African rand against the US dollar, production costs at AngloGold's South African operations increased in US dollar terms during the second half of 2002 compared with the first half. This trend continued in 2003 due to the continued weakening of the US dollar relative to currencies in many of the countries in which AngloGold operates. These impacts have been partially offset in 2003 by the increase in the US dollar price of gold, which increase has been partially a function of US dollar weakness. For a discussion of trends expected for 2003, see "Item 5D.: Trend information".
To a lesser extent, mainly as a result of its hedging instruments, a small proportion of AngloGold's revenues are denominated in South African rand and Australian dollar, which may partially offset the effect of the US dollar's strength or weakness on AngloGold's profitability. This benefit may, however, be diluted following completion of the Business Combination, as a greater proportion of Ashanti's revenues and costs are US dollar denominated.
In addition, due to its global operations and local foreign exchange regulations, some of AngloGold's funds are held in local currencies, such as the South African rand and Australian dollar. The US dollar value of these currencies may be affected by exchange rate fluctuations. If material, exchange rate movements may affect AngloGold's overall financial position. See "Item 5B.: Liquidity and capital resources - Liquidity".
Inflation may have a negative impact on AngloGold's results of operations.
Most of AngloGold's operations are located in countries that have historically experienced high rates of inflation. AngloGold's operations have not been materially adversely affected by inflation in recent years. However, because it is unable to control the market price at which it sells the gold it produces (except to the extent that it enters into forward sales and other derivative contracts), it is possible that significantly higher future inflation in the countries in which AngloGold operates may result in a consequent increase in future operational costs in local currencies, without a concurrent devaluation of the local currency of operations against the US dollar or an increase in the US dollar price of gold, could have a material adverse effect upon its results of operations and financial condition.
While none of AngloGold's specific operations are currently materially adversely affected by inflation, significantly higher and sustained inflation in the future, with a consequent increase in operational costs, could result in operations being discontinued or reduced or rationalised at higher cost mines. See "Item 4B.: Business overview - Products, operations and geographic locations".
The mineral deposits and mining operations of AngloGold are located mainly in African and, to a lesser extent, South American countries. Countries in these regions, to a greater or lesser extent, have experienced political instability and economic uncertainty in the past. More recently, certain of the countries in which AngloGold operates, in particular South Africa, have achieved greater political and economic stability. Nevertheless, in some of the countries where AngloGold operates, government policy may be unpredictable, and the institutions of government and market economy may be unstable and subject to rapid and unpredictable change.
Any existing and new mining operations and projects AngloGold carries out in these countries are and will be subject to various national and local laws, policies and regulations governing the prospecting, developing and mining of mineral reserves, taxation, exchange controls, investment approvals, employee relations and other matters. If, in one or more of these countries, AngloGold could not obtain or maintain necessary permits, authorizations or agreements to implement planned projects or continue its operations under conditions or within time frames that make such plans and operations economic, or if legal or fiscal regimes or the governing political authorities change materially, its financial position could be adversely affected.
In South Africa, on February 18, 2004, in the Budget Speech for the 2004 fiscal year, the Minister of Finance announced that due to the new regulatory system for the mining rights in terms of the MPRDA and accompanying royalty dispensation under the draft Mineral and Petroleum Royalty Bill, it has become imperative to holistically reassess the current fiscal regime as applicable to the mining and petroleum industries in South Africa, including tax, depreciation, rate differentiation for mining sectors, allowable deductions and exemptions from Secondary Tax on Companies in terms of South Africa's income tax regime. Also due for review is the gold mining tax formula, which provides income tax exemption and relief from Secondary Tax on Companies for gold mines, despite the existence of profit. The impact of these proposed reviews is unknown at this stage and any material adverse change arising therefrom could have an adverse impact upon the financial position of AngloGold.
In certain circumstances, AngloGold is required to seek the consent of regulators and other governmental authorities before it can undertake significant transactions, such as dispositions of assets. It may not be able to obtain these consents expeditiously or at all.
As at December 31, 2003, approximately 87 percent (2002: 88 percent) of AngloGold's workforce was located in South Africa.
Approximately 86 percent of the workforce on its South African operations is unionized, with the National Union of Mineworkers ("NUM") representing the majority of unionized workers. AngloGold's employees in some South American countries are also highly unionized. In the past, trade unions have had a significant impact on AngloGold's collective bargaining process, as well as on social and political reforms, most notably in South Africa. In 1987, the NUM embarked on a three-week strike in support of a wage demand. Since then AngloGold and the industry have not experienced any work stoppages due to wage negotiations. It has become practice to negotiate wages and conditions of employment with the unions every two years, through the Chamber of Mines of South Africa. The most recent settlement negotiation was completed in July 2003, when the parties reached an agreement covering the period from July 1, 2003 to June 30, 2005. Furthermore, AngloGold has instituted a number of processes at both mine and at company level, whereby management and unions interact regularly and address areas of difference as they arise.
Ashanti and its mining contractors also rely to a large degree on a unionized workforce. In 1999, Ashanti experienced strikes at the Obuasi mine in Ghana, and in 2000 at the Freda-Rebecca mine in Zimbabwe, and there is a risk that strikes or other types of conflict with unions or employees may occur in the future.
It is uncertain whether labor disruptions will be used to advocate labor, political or social causes in the future. Should any labor disruptions occur, if material, they could have an adverse effect on AngloGold's results of operations and financial condition. For a discussion of AngloGold's employees and labor relations, see "Item 6D.: Employees".
AIDS and tuberculosis (which is exacerbated in the presence of HIV/AIDS) remain the major health care challenges faced by AngloGold's South African operations. A significant portion, approximately 30 percent, of its South African workforce is believed to be infected with the HIV virus. The exact extent to which Ashanti's workforce is infected is not known. Recently, however, certain members of Ashanti's workforce at the Freda-Rebecca mine agreed to undergo voluntary testing for HIV. Of the persons who participated in this voluntary test, 20 percent tested positive for HIV. AngloGold is continuing to develop and implement various programs aimed at helping those who have been infected with HIV and preventing new infections. On November 14, 2002, AngloGold announced that it had begun implementing a monitored pilot anti-retroviral therapy program for volunteer employees in South Africa who are infected with HIV. The pilot program involved offering a triple combination drug regimen, known as a drug cocktail, to 200 Wellness Clinic patients that met the medical eligibility criteria for starting treatment. From April 2003, it commenced a roll out of the treatment to all eligible employees desiring it.
At this stage, the drug cocktail alone costs approximately $70 per participating employee per month. It is not yet possible to develop an accurate cost estimate of the program in its entirety, given uncertainties such as drug prices and the ultimate rate of employee participation. Based on its estimates, AngloGold believes that the cost of managing and treating the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic would be significantly lower than the cost of ignoring it and failing to take measures to manage and treat it.
AngloGold does not expect the cost that it will incur related to the prevention of HIV infection and the treatment of AIDS to materially and adversely affect its operations and profitability. Nevertheless, it is not possible to determine with certainty the costs that it may incur in the future in addressing this issue, and consequently, its operations and profitability could be adversely affected. For a more detailed discussion, see Item "4B.: Business overview - Safety and health - South Africa region".
Ashanti's power supplies are unreliable and have on occasion forced Ashanti to halt or curtail activities at its mines. Power fluctuations and power cost increases may have a negative impact on AngloGold's profitability.
Substantial portions of Ashanti's mining operations in Ghana are dependent for their electricity supply on hydro-electric power supplied by the Volta River Authority, or VRA, an entity controlled by the Government of Ghana, although Ashanti also has access to VRA electricity supply from a recently constructed smaller thermal plant. The VRA's principal electricity generating facility is the Akosombo Dam and during periods of below average inflows from the Volta reservoir, electricity supplies from the Akosombo Dam may be curtailed, as occurred in 1998. In addition, this electricity supply has been subject to voltage fluctuations, which can damage Ashanti's equipment. Other than short-term stand-by generators, which are not sufficient to allow Ashanti to continue mining operations, Ashanti has no means of obtaining alternative power in the event of a supply shortage from the VRA. The VRA also obtains power from neighbouring Cote d'Ivoire, which has recently experienced some political instability and civil unrest. These factors may cause interruptions in Ashanti's power supply or result in increases in the cost of power even if they do not interrupt supply. Ashanti's original agreement with the VRA expired in May 2003 and negotiations with the VRA have been concluded resulting in an increase of 11 percent in the applicable tariff upon renewal of that agreement.
Ashanti's mining operations in Guinea and Tanzania and AngloGold's mining operations in Mali are dependent on power supplied by outside contractors and supplies of fuel being delivered by road. Ashanti's power supply has been disrupted in the past and Ashanti has suffered resulting production losses as a result of equipment failure.
The occurrence of events for which AngloGold is not insured or for which its insurance is inadequate may affect its cash flows and overall profitability.
AngloGold maintains insurance to protect only against catastrophic events which could have a significant adverse impact on its operations and profitability. This insurance is maintained in amounts that are believed to be reasonable depending upon the circumstances surrounding each identified risk. However, AngloGold's insurance does not cover all potential risks associated with its business. In addition, AngloGold may elect not to have insurance for certain risks, due to the high premiums associated with insuring those risks or for various other reasons, including an assessment that the risks are remote. Furthermore, AngloGold may not be able to obtain insurance coverage at acceptable premiums. AngloGold has a captive insurance company, namely AGRe Insurance Company Limited, which participates at various levels in certain of the insurances maintained by AngloGold. The occurrence of events for which it is not insured may adversely affect AngloGold's cash flows and overall profitability.
Ashanti is currently subject to litigation, including a consolidated class action lawsuit pending in the United States alleging misstatements and non-disclosures in connection with SEC filings and other public statements made in 1999 concerning Ashanti's hedging program. The damages sought by the plaintiffs have not yet been specified, as is common practice in US litigation at the current stage of the proceedings. The outcome of this litigation may not be known for some time. These matters may adversely affect AngloGold's business and financial condition if the Business Combination is completed and Ashanti is required to pay substantial amounts in respect thereof.
Risks related to AngloGold's ordinary shares and ADSs
Sales of large amounts of AngloGold's ordinary shares and ADSs or the perception that these sales may occur, could adversely affect the prevailing market price of such securities.
The market price of AngloGold's ordinary shares or ADSs could fall if large amounts of ordinary shares or ADSs are sold in the public market, or there is the perception in the marketplace that such sales could occur. Current holders of ordinary shares or ADSs may decide to sell them at any time. Ashanti shareholders who will receive ordinary shares or ADSs as a result of the Business Combination may not wish to hold such ordinary shares or ADSs following the Business Combination. Lonmin, which currently holds 27.6 percent of Ashanti's issued share capital, will receive 10,440,000 ordinary shares in the Business Combination. AngloGold has entered into a registration rights agreement with Lonmin pursuant to which Lonmin will be entitled to sell its ordinary shares in the public market immediately following the effectiveness of the Business Combination. The Government of Ghana, which currently holds 16.8 percent of Ashanti's issued share capital, will receive, in its capacity as a shareholder of Ashanti, 6,373,650 ordinary shares in the Business Combination. In addition to these ordinary shares, the Government of Ghana will also receive 2,658,000 ordinary shares upon the completion of the Business Combination under the terms of a fiscal and regulatory stability agreement between the Government and AngloGold. The ordinary shares that the Government of Ghana will receive under the stability agreement and the ordinary shares issued in the Business Combination to Lonmin and the Government of Ghana, will in the aggregate represent approximately 7.4 percent of AngloGold's total issued ordinary share capital upon the completion of the Business Combination. Sales of ordinary shares or ADSs, if substantial, or the perception that these sales may occur and be substantial, could exert downward pressure on the prevailing market prices for the ordinary shares or ADSs, causing their market prices to decline.
Fluctuations in the exchange rate of different currencies may reduce the market value of AngloGold's securities, as well as the market value of any dividends or distributions paid by AngloGold.
AngloGold has historically declared all dividends in South African rand. As a result, exchange rate movements may have affected and, following the completion of the Business Combination, may continue to affect, respectively, the Australian dollar, the British pound and the US dollar value of these dividends, as well as of any other distributions paid by the relevant depositary to investors that hold AngloGold's securities. This may reduce the value of these securities to investors. At the general meeting of AngloGold's shareholders held on December 5, 2002, a majority of its shareholders passed a special resolution adopting a new Memorandum and Articles of Association, which, among other things, allows for dividends and distributions to be declared in any currency at the discretion of AngloGold's Board, or its shareholders at a general meeting. If, and to the extent AngloGold declares dividends and distributions in US dollars, exchange rate movements will not affect the US dollar value of any dividends or distributions. Nevertheless, the Australian dollar and British pound value of any dividend or distribution will continue to be affected and the South African rand value of any dividend or distribution will also be affected. If and to the extent dividends and distributions are declared in South African rand, exchange rate movements will continue to affect the Australian dollar, British pound and US dollar value of these dividends and the Australian dollar, British pound and US dollar market value of AngloGold's securities will continue to fluctuate with exchange rate movements.
AngloGold is listed on the following securities exchanges under the respective trading symbols: Johannesburg (ANG), New York (AU) and Australia (AGG), as well as the London Stock Exchange (ANG), Euronext Paris (VA FP) and Euronext Brussels (ANG BB).
AngloGold, as it conducts business today, was formed in June 1998 through the consolidation of the gold interests of Anglo American Corporation of South Africa Limited (AAC) and its associated companies into a single, focused, independent, global gold company. Vaal Reefs Exploration and Mining Company Limited (Vaal Reefs), the vehicle for the consolidation, changed its name to AngloGold Limited and increased its authorized share capital, effective March 30, 1998. AngloGold then acquired, in share-for-share exchanges in terms of South African schemes of arrangement and following shareholder approval, all of the issued share capital of the following participating companies:
· East Rand Gold and Uranium Company Limited (Ergo);
· Eastvaal Gold Holdings Limited (Eastvaal);
· Southvaal Holdings Limited (Southvaal);
· Free State Consolidated Gold Mines Limited (Freegold);
· Elandsrand Gold Mining Company Limited (Elandsrand);
· H.J. Joel Gold Mining Company Limited (HJ Joel); and
· Western Deep Levels Limited (Western Deep Levels)
(collectively the "participating companies"). A total of 51,038,968 ordinary shares were issued to AAC and 66,010,118 ordinary shares to other shareholders in exchange for their shares in these companies.
In addition, AngloGold acquired in private transactions with AAC and minority shareholders certain share interests in gold mining companies, including:
· approximately 17 percent of Driefontein Consolidated Limited (Driefontein);
· 100 percent of Anmercosa Mining (West Africa) Limited (Anmin West Africa);
· approximately 89 percent of Western Ultra Deep Levels Limited (Western Ultra Deep);
· approximately 52 percent of Eastern Gold Holdings Limited (Eastern Gold);
· 100 percent of Erongo Mining and Exploration Company Limited (Erongo); and
· other sundry share interests
(collectively the "share interests companies"). A total of 25,734,446 ordinary shares were issued to AAC and 957,920 ordinary shares to minority shareholders in exchange for their shares in these companies.
AngloGold also acquired certain gold exploration and mining rights from AAC and other companies in exchange for which 1,623,080 ordinary shares were issued to AAC and 4,210,412 ordinary shares to other companies.
AngloGold's South Africa region includes seven underground operations located in two geographic areas on the Witwatersrand Basin:
Overall, production fell by 4 percent to 3.281 million ounces with increased volumes mined being offset by planned reductions in yield of 3 percent. Cash costs rose by 60 percent to $253 per ounce, mainly because of the stronger South African rand (45 percent) and the inflationary pressures of the two-year wage agreement which came into effect from July 2003 and resulted in a 9 percent increase in the wages of the majority of employees.
Capital expenditure for the year was $242 million, primarily at Moab Khotsong ($67 million), which remains under development, the Mponeng shaft deepening project ($55 million), Kopanang ($12 million) and TauTona ($65 million).
Geology: Two reef horizons are exploited at the West Wits operations, the Ventersdorp Contact Reef (VCR) located at the top of the Central Rand Group and the Carbon Leader Reef (CLR) near the base. The separation between the two reefs increases from east to west from 400 to 900 meters due to the VCR unconformity. TauTona and Savuka mine both reefs whereas Mponeng only mines the VCR. The structure is relatively simple; faults of greater than 70 meters are rare. The CLR consists of one or more conglomerate units and varies from several centimeters to more than three meters in thickness. Regionally, the VCR dips at approximately 21 degrees but may vary between 5 and 50 degrees, accompanied by changes in thickness of the conglomerate units. Where the conglomerate has the attitude of the regional dip, it tends to be thick, well-developed and accompanied by higher gold accumulations. Where the attitude departs significantly from the regional dip, the reef is thin.
Operating and production data for West Wits operations
Increased seismicity in the VCR during 2002 had a negative impact on the volumes mined, although improvements in the rate of face advance countered this to some extent. After having mined a pillar in the first half of 2002, the grade dropped on the depletion of the pillar. Consequently, gold produced decreased by 2 percent to 236,000 ounces, while total cash cost decreased by 1 percent to $245 per ounce compared with 2001 when gold production was 240,000 ounces at a total cash cost of $248 per ounce. In rand terms, however, total cash costs increased by 20 percent as a result of the accelerated development plan to match the new life of mines profiles.
Growth prospects
Mponeng Shaft Deepening Project: The scope of the project is to deepen the sub-shaft system and provide access tunnels to the VCR horizon on 113, 116 and 120 levels (ranging fromm 3,172 meters to 3,372 meters below surface). AngloGold expects the project to produce 4.2 million ounces of gold over a period of five years. The total capital expenditure for the project is $200 million (at 2003's closing exchange rate), with some $19 million (at 2003's closing exchange rate) remaining. The average project cash cost over the life-of-mine is expected to be approximately $270 per ounce. Progress continued to be made on this project during 2003, with the in-circle development being completed in February 2003 and access development on 113 level being completed ahead of schedule. Work on 116 level was completed in November 2003 and it is anticipated that development on 120 level will be completed by February 2004. Stoping operatings are due to commence in April 2004.
The scope of the TauTona Extension Project is to access the Carbon Leader Reef ("CLR") shaft pillar to allow for stoping operations up to the infrastructural zone of influence, as well accessing a mining area east of the Bank Dyke (previously part of the Mponeng mine plan) on 100, 104, 107 and 109 levels. AngloGold expects the project to produce 2.3 million ounces of gold over a period of ten years, at a capital cost of $65 million (converted at the closing exchange rate for 2003). Approximately $35 million (at 2003's closing exchange rate) has been spent to date. AngloGold expects the average project cash cost to be of the order of $187 per ounce. The proposed mining of the Bank Dyke is under review owing to seismicity experienced in the development in this area, the amount of water that could be encountered and the added flexibility that the purchase of the block of ground from Driefontein allows. Changes will be implemented if they improve the overall value of TauTona.
The scope of the TauTona VCR Development Project is to access two distinct reserve blocks on the VCR horizon. One reserve block is situated north-east of the shaft complex, while the VCR pillar area of interest consists of two mining blocks situated outside the zone of influence. The project will add some 0.33 million ounces to production, with a project capital cost of $29 million at 2003's closing exchange rate. Progress on both the VCR reserve blocks is ahead of schedule, with production due to start in January 2005.
The CLR reserve block below 120 level, known as TauTona below 120 level Project, will be accessed by sinking a twin decline system into its geographical center, down to 125 level. The project is expected to produce 1.8 million ounces of gold over a period of seven years, with a project capital cost of $147 million (at 2003's closing exchange rate). The average project cash cost is expected to be of the order of $203 per ounce. Progress is on schedule and production is due to start in January 2007.
Production at Mponeng in 2004 is expected to decrease to 442,000 ounces at a total cash cost of $309 per ounce, with capital expenditure of $58 million.
Looking forward to 2004, production at Savuka is expected to decrease to 172,000 ounces, at a total cash cost of $407 per ounce. Capital expenditure is forecast at $7 million. Savuka has strategic synergies with TauTona.
Gold production at TauTona is expected to decrease to 620,000 ounces in 2004 while total cash cost will rise to $218 per ounce. Capital expenditure should amount to $63 million.
· Vaal River operations
Description: AngloGold's Vaal River operations are located in the original Vaal Reefs mining area of the Witwatersrand Basin and comprise three operating mines, Great Noligwa, Kopanang and Tau Lekoa and a developing mine, Moab Khotsong.
The Vaal River complex also has four gold plants, one uranium plant and one sulphuric acid plant. The Vaal River processing plants include crushers, mills, CIP and electro-winning facilities and are able to treat between 180,000 and 420,000 tonnes of ore per month. Although the Vaal River operations produce uranium oxide as a by-product of the production of gold, the value is not significant relative to the value of gold produced.
Geology: In order of importance, the reefs mined at the Vaal River operations are the Vaal Reef, the VCR and the "C" Reef. The Vaal Reef contains approximately 85 percent of the reserve tonnage with mining grades between 10 and 20 grams per tonne. It comprises a series of oligomictic conglomerates and quartzite packages developed on successive unconformities. Several distinct facies have been identified, each with its unique gold distribution and grade characteristic. The VCR has a lower grade than the Vaal Reef, and contains approximately 15 percent of the estimated reserves. The economic portion is mainly concentrated in the western part of the lease area. It can take the form of a massive conglomerate, a pyritic sand unit with intermittent pebble layers or a thin conglomerate horizon. The reef is located at the contact between the overlying Kliprivierberg Lavas of the Ventersdorp SuperGroup and the underlying sediments of the Witwatersrand SuperGroup which creates a distinctive seismic reflector. The VCR is located up to one kilometer above the Vaal Reef. The "C" Reef is a thin, small pebble conglomerate with a carbon-rich basal contact, located approximately 270 meters above the Vaal Reef. It has less than 1 percent of the estimated reserves with grades similar to the Vaal Reef, but more erratic. The most significant structural features are the north-east striking normal faults which dip to the north-west and south-east, resulting in zones of fault loss.
Operating and production data for Vaal River operations
Outlook
During 2003, gold production at Navachab was 14 percent lower than in 2002, at 73,000 ounces from 85,000 ounces, due to a 10 percent decrease in recovered grade and a 4 percent decrease in tonnage throughput. Tonnage throughput was adversely affected by a mill motor and power transformer failure and breakdown of a mill girth gear during the year. Total cash costs increased by 86 percent to $274 per ounce in 2003 from $147 per ounce in 2002. The increase in unit cash cost is due to an increased stripping ratio associated with the Eastern Pushback project, the lower recovered grade and the impact of the weaker US dollar on expenditure expressed in dollar terms.
During 2004, AngloGold expects attributable production to increase by 4 percent to 345,000 ounces. Total cash costs should increase by 9 percent to $199 per ounce due to anticipated increases in mining contractor rates and plant maintenance requirements. Capital expenditure attributable to AngloGold of $10 million is planned in 2004.
Operating and production data for Morila
Attributable gold production at Yatela decreased by 19 percent to 87,000 ounces in 2003 compared to 107,000 ounces in 2002 due to a reduction in recovered grade and lower tonnage stacked. Tonnage was negatively affected in the second half of the year by bottlenecks in the new crushing circuit. Following excessive wear and high maintenance costs on the mineral sizer caused by hard ore, the mineral sizer was replaced in June 2003 by a primary jaw crusher and secondary cone crusher. Total cash costs increased by 34 percent to $235 per ounce, largely as a result of the lower grade, higher landed diesel fuel prices, increased mining contractor costs and the impact of the weaker United States dollar on expenditure expressed in dollar terms.
2002 was the first full year of operation at Yatela. Attributable gold production increased by 105 percent to 107,000 ounces compared to 2001, while total cash costs increased by 18 percent to $175 per ounce, largely as a result of higher maintenance costs on the mineral sizers as a result of harder materials being treated, and increased reagent -- mainly cement -- usage. Cement is used for leach pad stability.
Growth prospects
In 2003 approval was granted to proceed with the development and mining of the Alamoutala deposit. Construction of the 10 kilometer road between Yatela and Alamoutala was completed during the third quarter of 2003. The mining fleet was ordered in the second quarter; stripping began in the third quarter and the first ore was delivered in the fourth quarter, with the hauling of the higher grade ore exceeding the original plan. Mining of the Alamoutala pit started in July 2003, 10 days ahead of schedule.
Outlook
During 2004, attributable production is expected to increase by 27 percent to 111,000 ounces due to planned increases in tonnage and grade stacked. Higher grade Alamoutala ore will replace low grade Yatela ore feed, and is expected to improve recovered grade. Total cash costs should decrease by 8 percent to $217 per ounce. Capital expenditure attributable to AngloGold of $1 million is planned in 2004.
Production decreased to 390,000 ounces, primarily as a result of the sale of AngloGold's 70 percent interest in the Jerritt Canyon Joint Venture to Queenstake Resources, following an unsolicited offer received from Queenstake. Total cash costs were $223 per ounce. Capital expenditure decreased to $27 million from $74 million in 2002, as the Cresson expansion project was completed.
· Cripple Creek & Victor (attributable 67 percent with 100 percent interest in production)
Description: AngloGold (Colorado) Corp., a subsidiary of AngloGold North America Inc., owns 67 percent of Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company (CC&V), in the Cripple Creek mining district, south-west of Colorado Springs in Colorado. The remaining 33 percent of CC&V is held by Golden Cycle Gold Corporation (Golden Cycle). AngloGold is the manager of the operation. AngloGold is currently entitled to receive 100 percent of the cash flow from the operation until a loan, extended to the joint venture by AngloGold North America Inc., is repaid. CC&V is a low-cost, low-grade open-pit operation. AngloGold believes that good potential exists for the discovery of future mineral deposits and the establishment of these deposits as reserves.
During 2003, gold production at Sunrise Dam decreased by 6 percent from 382,000 ounces in 2002 to 358,000 ounces as a result of mining progressing through lower grade areas of the orebody. Total cash costs increased by 29 percent to $228 per ounce in 2003 compared with $177 per ounce in 2002. In Australian dollar terms, total cash costs increased by 8 percent during the same period commensurate with the lower gold production. Capital expenditure for the year amounted to $20 million, down from $26 million in 2002. In the second half of 2003, the underground mine was commissioned as part of a 3-year feasibility study into the viability of a large underground operation. First ore from underground is expected in mid-2004.
Following a scoping study that was completed in the first half of 2003, underground development commenced in the fourth quarter. The three-year underground project, involving the development of two declines and 125,000 meter of drilling from surface and underground, will enable the underground potential of the Sunrise Dam orebody to be fully explored. Declines are being developed in the vicinity of defined underground reserves, which will be mined through the course of the project. Deep drilling to date has indicated that the sub-vertical, high-grade zones that have been a feature of open-cut mining at Sunrise Dam continue at depth. It is expected that the project will add significantly to underground reserves and a decision on whether to proceed to full-scale underground mining will be made in early 2007.
Outlook
With the first ore being produced from underground reserves during the second quarter, AngloGold expects gold production at Sunrise Dam to increase to approximately 405,000 ounces in 2004 at an expected total cash cost of $237 per ounce. Capital expenditure was $20 million in 2003 and should be in the order of $29 million in 2004, the majority of which will be on the Sunrise Dam underground feasibility study.
· Boddington (attributable 33.33 percent)
Description: Boddington gold mine, which closed at the end of 2001, was an open-pit operation approximately 100 kilometers south east of Perth. Formerly operated by Worsley Alumina, since September 2002 it has been operated by the Boddington Gold Mine Management Company under the direction of the Boddington joint venture partners, namely AngloGold (33.33 percent), Newmont Boddington (44.44 percent) and Newcrest Operations (22.22 percent).
Geology: Boddington is located in the Archaean Saddleback greenstone belt in south-west Western Australia. The main zone of gold mineralization occurs reasonably continuously over a strike length of over five kilometers and a width of about one kilometer. The oxide gold mineralization forms a semi-continuous blanket within the upper iron-rich laterite, with more erratic gold distribution in the lower zones.
The basement rocks below the oxide zone host gold mineralization with a variety of geological styles, predominantly in andesitic volcanics and diorite dikes.
Operating and production data for Boddington
In 2003, the plant was on care and maintenance pending commencement of the Boddington expansion project. A complete review and update to the feasibility study for the Boddington expansion, or Wandoo project, was commissioned by the joint venture partners. During 2003, site activities included minor rehabilitation, plant preservation, exploration and assistance with testwork for the feasibility study update.
During 2002, the mine produced 2,000 attributable ounces of gold from clean-up of the plant. The plant was then placed on care and maintenance pending commencement of the Boddington expansion project from a production of 78,000 attributable ounces of gold at a total cash cost of $190 per ounce in 2001.
Growth prospects
A decision to proceed with the Boddington Expansion Project is expected by the second half of 2005. AngloGold owns 33.33 percent of the Boddington Gold Mine, along with Newmont Boddington (44.44 percent) and Newcrest Operations (22.22 percent). A feasibility study completed in 2000 was based on an operation with a throughput of 25 million tonnes per annum, producing an average of 600,000 ounces of gold and 22,500 tonnes of copper per annum over a life of mine of 15 years, at an estimated attributable capital cost of $192 million. Further work has been undertaken by the respective joint venture partners during 2003 to further test the feasibility study, evaluate the project risk and identify opportunities for enhancing returns. This work is likely to continue into the second quarter of 2004 after which a full update of the feasibility study is anticipated. Environmental approvals associated with the expansion were received in June 2002 and will remain valid for a period of five years.
· Union Reefs (attributable 100 percent)
Description: Union Reefs open-pit gold operations lie some 160 kilometers south-east of Darwin between the townships of Pine Creek and Adelaide River in the Northern Territory.
Geology: The project areas lie in the central portion of the Pine Creek geosyncline, an Early Proterozoic sequence of deformed sediments which were intruded by a series of granitoids. Gold mineralization at Union Reefs lies within the Pine Creek Shear Zone and is indicated by numerous historic gold workings centered on two north-west trending lines of mineralization which extend over a strike length of 4.5 kilometers. Economic mineralization has been outlined over a strike length of 2.5 kilometers between Crosscourse and Union North and is typically subvertical and associated with quartz-sulphide veining.
Operating and production data for Union Reefs
The Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Company joint venture is almost entirely comprised of company owned patented mining claims for public lands, with a small percentage of private and State lands being leased and the balance owned. The total area of control is approximately 7,100 acres. Patented claims vest ownership in the holder, including the right to mine for an indefinite tenure. All life of mine reserves are within these property controls. The mining and reclamation permits issued by the State of Colorado are life of mine permits.
In Brazil, Mine Manifests (mining titles granted in 1936) and Mining Decrees (mining titles presently granted via a decree signed by the Minister of Mines and Energy) are valid for an undetermined period - until depletion of reserves - provided that the mining title holder complies with present Brazilian mining legislation, as well as with those requirements set out by the DNPM who acts as inspecting entity for mining activities. The difference between a Mine Manifest and a Mining Decree consists in the legal nature of these two mining titles, since it is much more difficult and complicated for the Public Administration to extinct a Mine Manifest than a Mining Decree, although, in practice, it is possible to cancel or become extinct if the abandonment of the mining practices is formally proven. All of AngloGold's operations in Brazil have indefinite mining licenses.
According to Argentinean Mining Legislation, mines are private property of the Nation or a Province depending where they are located. Individuals are empowered to search, operate and dispose of mines as owners by means of a legal license granted by competent authority under the provisions of the Mining Code. The usual ways used in Argentina to transfer rights over mining licenses are: to sell the license; to lease it; or to assign the rights under such a license by a beneficial interest or Usufruct Agreement. The current license expires in 2036.
Australia
In Australia, with few exceptions, all onshore mineral rights are reserved to the government of the relevant State or Territory. Exploration for, and mining of, minerals is regulated by the general mining legislation of each respective State or Territory and controlled by the relevant State or Territory mining ministry. Where native title has not been extinguished, native title legislation may apply to the grant of tenure and some subsequent administrative processes. Federal and State Aboriginal heritage legislation also operate to protect special sites and areas from disturbance, to date there has not been any adverse impact on any of AngloGold's operating properties.
AngloGold's operating properties are located in the State of Western Australia and the Northern Territory. The most common forms of tenure are exploration and prospecting licenses, mining leases and general purpose leases. In most Australian states, if the holder of an exploration license establishes indications of an economic mineral deposit and complies with the conditions of the grant, the holder of the exploration license has a priority right against all others to apply for a mining lease which gives the holder exclusive mining rights with respect to minerals on the property. It is possible for one person to own the surface of the property and for another to own the mineral rights. Typically the maximum initial term of a mining lease is 21 years, and the holder has the right to renew the lease for a further period of 21 years. Subsequent renewals are subject to the discretion of the respective State or Territory's minister responsible for mining rights. Mining leases can only be assigned with the consent of the relevant minister. Government royalties are payable as specified in the relevant legislation in each State or Territory. A general purpose lease may also be granted for one or more of a number of permitted purposes. These purposes include erecting, placing and operating machinery and plant in connection with mining operations, depositing or treating minerals or tailings and using the land for any other specified purpose directly connected with mining operations.
AngloGold owns the mineral rights and has 21-year term mining leases with rights of renewal to all of its mining areas in Australia, including its proportionate share of joint venture operations, and both it and its joint venture partners are fully authorized to conduct operations in accordance with relevant laws and regulations. The mining leases cover the current life of mines at AngloGold's operations in Australia.
Ore Reserves
The tables below set out the group's Proven and Probable Ore Reserves as of December 31, 2002 and 2003, in both imperial and metric units.
Ore reserve estimates in this annual report on Form 20-F are reported in accordance with the requirements of the SEC's Industry Guide 7. Accordingly, as of the date of reporting, all reserves are planned to be mined out under the life of mine plans within the period of AngloGold's existing rights to mine, or within the time period of assured renewal periods of AngloGold's rights to mine. In addition, as of the date of reporting, all reserves are covered by required permits and governmental approvals. See "Item 4B.: Business overview -- Rights to mine and title to properties", "-- Safety and Health", and "Item 4D.: Property, plants and equipment".
In the case of surface, open-pit mines the procedure is as follows: Revenue and costs are calculated for each mining block within a three-dimensional model of the orebody using assumed values for gold price, operating costs, metallurgical recoveries and slope angles. An optimisation process is then applied to determine all the blocks combined within the model that make a positive contribution under these assumptions. Within this process, a cut-off grade is applied which determines the ore blocks to be treated and included in the Ore Reserves. These blocks are scheduled with consideration being given to practical mining considerations and limitations. Scheduled ore blocks that are classified as Proven or Probable constitute the Ore Reserve.
For 2003, in respect of AngloGold's South African assets, Ore Reserves were determined assuming a gold price of $350 per ounce and an exchange rate of ZAR7.00 = $1. This compares with a gold price of $325 per ounce and an exchange rate of ZAR10.50 = $1 as at December 31, 2002.
In respect of assets in East and West Africa, Ore Reserves were determined assuming a gold price of $350 per ounce.
In respect of assets in South America, Ore Reserves were determined assuming a gold price of $350 per ounce, with the exceptions of Cerro Vanguardia, as well as certain parts of Morro Velho, namely Engenho D'Agua and Corrego do Sitio. The Ore Reserves for Cerro Vanguardia, Engenho D'Agua and Corrego do Sitio were determined at $325 per ounce.
Ore Reserves for Cripple Creek & Victor in North America were determined assuming a gold price of $325 per ounce. Ore Reserves at AngloGold's Australian assets were determined assuming a gold price of $234 per ounce and at an exchange rate of A$1 = $0.55 for Boddington (based upon the gold price and exchange rate assumed for the 2000 feasibility study) and at $350 per ounce and an exchange rate of A$1 = $0.63 for Sunrise Dam.
Sensitivities, conducted using the three-year historical average gold price in local currencies, where applicable, indicate that there is no material difference to the ore reserves as stated below. These prices are ZAR90,000 per kilogram in South Africa, A$550 per ounce in Australia and $325 per ounce elsewhere.
The Ore Reserve estimates in this document include Ore Reserves below current infrastructure in the case of certain South African mines. However, these Ore Reserves have been determined based upon completed feasibility studies.
It should be noted that in Australia and South Africa, AngloGold is legally required to publicly report Ore Reserves and Mineral Resources according to the Australasian Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (JORC Code) and the South African Code for Reporting of Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (SAMREC Code). The SEC's Industry Guide 7 does not recognize Mineral Resources. Accordingly, AngloGold does not report estimates of Mineral Resources in this annual report on Form 20-F.
As with the 2002 report, tonnage and grades are reflected on a delivered-to-mill basis. The gold content estimate will be affected by losses (and gains) in three main areas: differences arising out of statistical and sampling variation; dilution in the mining and transport processes and metallurgical recovery process losses. These factors operate independently of one another.
The principal changes in AngloGold's Ore Reserves as at December 31, 2003 compared with those published as at December 31, 2002, for reasons other than depletion, are as follows:
AngloGold's ore reserve statements have been prepared by the competent persons who manage AngloGold's ore reserves. See "Item 6.: Directors, senior management and employees". Independent parties have not reviewed the majority of the ore reserves during the last three years.
In determining the Proven and Probable Ore Reserves, AngloGold applied the following drill hole spacings:
In determining the Proven and Probable Ore Reserves, AngloGold applied the following drill hole spacings:
AngloGold's global exploration strategy seeks both to extend the life of existing operations (through brownfields exploration) and to establish new mines (through greenfields exploration). This strategy is achieved through cost-effective, focused exploration in geological terrains most likely to host significant gold deposits. The more isolated the prospect is from existing operations, the less existing infrastructure development or the higher the country and other risks associated with the project, the more significant the deposit must be to meet AngloGold's investment criteria.
AngloGold's exploration activities in 2003 continued to support the group's growth strategy, while its brownfields exploration continued with variable success at all the existing operations. Greenfields exploration activities continued in the traditional areas such as Australia, Mali, Canada, Alaska, Peru and Brazil, and exploration commenced within the "frontier" area of Mongolia. In line with AngloGold's strategy to commit itself to definitive "walk-away criteria", greenfields exploration was terminated in Nevada and Tanzania and curtailed in Australia, where further exploration expenditure is considered to have reached the point of diminishing returns.
Exploration expensed by region ($ million)
AngloGold is committed to developing the market for gold and its marketing program aims to increase the desirability of its product, to sustain and grow demand for gold and to deregulate the market in key economies. As a company, AngloGold aims to extract value from gold wherever possible throughout its value chain.
Independently of its support for the WGC, AngloGold is active in a number of other marketing projects in support of gold, and AngloGold remains the only gold company in the world that has committed this level of resources to marketing the metal it produces.
Among its downstream initiatives in 2003, GoldAvenue, an Intranet collaboration between AngloGold, JP Morgan Chase and Pamp MKS of Geneva, published two new gold jewellery catalogues focused on uniquely designed, high-value gold jewellery aimed at the US market. Both sales and market penetration improved. This business was developed in association with Vivre, a luxury goods catalogue business operation in which GoldAvenue has taken an equity interest. AngloGold has provided additional support to this venture through product development, sourcing and product selection.
AngloGold holds a 26.6 percent stake in OroAfrica, the largest manufacturer of gold jewellery in South Africa, as an investment in the downstream gold value chain. AngloGold and OroAfrica have co-operated in a number of projects including OroAfrica's development and launch of an African gold jewellery brand. An important strategic step has been the establishment of a Jewellery Design Centre at OroAfrica at a cost of $250,000. The purpose of the center is to generate new gold jewellery designs, and to improve product standards through technology, design and innovation.
A bi-annual gold jewellery design competition in Brazil, Designers Forum, was launched by AngloGold South America in 2002, and is the first such competition in that country. The competition generated unprecedented interest, with a high quality of design and craftsmanship. Some 42 finalists contributed towards a collection of 52 pieces of innovative, high quality gold jewellery. Some of these pieces are depicted in the GoldAvenue catalogue.
The Gold of Africa Museum was inaugurated by AngloGold in 2001 in Cape Town with the permanent endowment of the Barbier Mueller collection of West African gold objects purchased by the company in 1998. The Museum also serves as a facility for training in the jewellery industry in Cape Town.
AngloGold and Mintek, South Africa's national metallurgical research organization, launched Project AuTEK in 2002 to research and develop industrial applications for gold. In May 2002, the project unveiled the first working prototype of a room temperature air purification unit based on a gold catalyst. The new unit is expected to be considerably cheaper to manufacture than designs based on other types of catalysts and could be used in restaurants, hospitals, hotels and office blocks. A conference, Gold 2003, staged in September/October 2003 in Vancouver, Canada attracted over 200 delegates worldwide, presenting over 120 papers covering chemistry, catalysis, materials and nanotechnology. This highlights the growing interest of researchers in the field of new industrial applications for gold.
An important feature in many of AngloGold's marketing projects has been the beneficiation of gold, particularly in South Africa. AngloGold's commitment to adding value to gold extends beyond mining and contributes towards the upliftment of people and the sustainability of communities. AngloGold remains a key sponsor of the Atteridgeville Jewellery Project, established in 2000 by the Vukani-Ubuntu Community Development Project to create opportunities in the jewellery industry in South Africa for the previously disadvantaged through training and development. During 2003, AngloGold sponsored a group of young jewellery designers from previously disadvantaged communities to exhibit their work at the Jewellex International Fair in Johannesburg and at International Jewellery London (IJL). Their work was well received and the venture provides a foundation for other initiatives aimed at developing this new breed of talent with its unique, African design idiom.
The challenge for marketing gold today is bigger than it has ever been, given the sharp fall-off in physical demand for gold in the major developing markets resulting from the rise in price and volatility. The market for gold in jewellery has declined materially in the past four years as gold jewellery has had to compete with other luxury consumer goods. AngloGold will continue its work with the WGC but will continue also to work independently in other areas of the gold market where it can exercise strategic influence.
Where forward sales contracts exist against which AngloGold elects to deliver physical product, the same channel is used, with the single exception that the finished gold bars are delivered to the specific bullion bank with which the forward contract is held. The physical delivery of the appropriate amount of gold meets AngloGold's obligations under contract, and AngloGold is paid by the relevant bullion bank the price as fixed under the forward contract, rather than the spot price of the day.
As gold mining is a mature and regulated industry, and very significant volumes of gold and gold derivatives trade in the world markets independent of gold mine supply, AngloGold does not consider that competition for sales plays any role in its operations as a gold producer. However, gold producers do compete against each other for acquisition and exploration opportunities.
Intellectual property
AngloGold and its subsidiary companies hold the right to use certain proprietary technology and intellectual property, including patented technology and other forms of protected intellectual property. These rights relate to various aspects of the company's business, from routine software and related computer technology in support of office operations, to intellectual property contained and/or used in the mining and mineral processing operations. AngloGold, as a group, is not dependent on these various forms of intellectual property for the conduct of its business as a whole.
Safety and health
The safety and health of employees remains fundamental to the sustainability of AngloGold's business. The company is committed to working with employees, trade unions and government bodies towards improving safety and health in the workplace. Considerable resources and effort are dedicated to identifying and implementing best practice across the company, as well as addressing specific problem areas as they arise. A core team of safety and health experts, located at the corporate office, reports to a board sub-committee on safety and health, and advises and assists the on-mine safety and health practitioners and mine management. Every fatal accident is subject to an executive review, over and above the region- specific regulatory and mine-based investigations, in an effort to identify the root causes of fatalities and to prevent a recurrence.
Safety performance in 2003 was disappointing. While the gains made over the past five years have been maintained, there has not been the much-desired step-change in improving safety and health performance. The long-term downward trend in lost time injuries has been maintained and the year-on-year figure has decreased marginally to 8.83 per million man hours. There was more pleasing progress in respect of the fatal injury frequency rate ("FIFR") during the year - this decreased by 6 percent to 0.29 per million man hours worked in 2003 from 0.31 per million man hours worked in 2002.
Regrettably, 43 employees lost their lives in the course of work during 2003 (2002: 44); 40 of these employees were employed in the South Africa region where the majority of AngloGold's workforce is employed.
There were, however, a number of notable safety performances:
AngloGold has published its Report to Society 2003, a copy of which was filed with the SEC on March 16, 2004 under Form 6-K. A fully-interactive web-based report can be found at the Company's website at www.anglogold.com. This report covers issues pertaining to social development in line with AngloGold's values and business principles and the Global Reporting Initiative Guidelines prepared on a regional basis.
Lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR) (per million man hours)
Regrettably, 40 employees died in work-related accidents on the South African operations during 2003 in 31 separate accidents, compared to 39 employees who lost their lives in mine accidents during 2002. The most significant of these was a seismic-related fall of ground incident, in which five employees lost their lives at TauTona mine on April 1, 2003. A further four deaths were caused in a second seismic event at the mine on May 26, 2003.
The primary cause of fatal accidents remains falls of ground, which caused 78 percent (2002: 62 percent) of fatal accidents during 2003, with seismically-induced falls of ground alone responsible for 43 percent of fatalities. Particular emphasis has been placed on preventing falls of ground, and a new Falls of Ground Management System has been initiated.
Overall, the FIFR for the year on the South African operations was 0.34, unchanged from 2002, and the LTIFR was 10.40, up by 4 percent on the 2002 rate of 9.98.
Safety performance
HIV is the major factor contributing to increased TB rates in South Africa. It is expected that the HIV Wellness Program and introduction of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) by AngloGold will have a positive impact on the TB problem and a project aimed at preventing transmission of TB, through mass prophylaxis, was implemented in 2003.
The prevention of HIV/AIDS infections and the compassionate care of those afflicted with the disease remains a priority for the South Africa region. AngloGold's core intervention comprises four elements, namely:
Safety performance
HIV/AIDS programs have been implemented in the region with the primary focus on prevention through education and awareness. Education programs are conducted on an on-going basis in the local communities and at the operations. Peer educators have been identified and have received professional training. Partnerships have been formed with NGOs and other stakeholders in the local communities. Awareness programs and condom distribution initiatives are ongoing.
In 2003, safety performance continued at levels experienced in previous years at the North American operations. The overall LTIFR decreased to 2.91 from 4.95 in 2002.
Ongoing initiatives at Sunrise Dam such as ACTSAFE, which is a safety behavioral program, have been developed and implemented across the site. Other safety and people development initiatives will be introduced in 2004.
Safety performance
AngloGold's operations are organized on a geographical basis, and are controlled from its Johannesburg office.
Management of AngloGold is entrusted to the executive committee, comprising the four executive directors. This executive committee is supported by the executive officers. See "Item 6: Directors, senior management and employees". Day-to-day management of the operations vests with executive teams based in South Africa (Johannesburg), North America (Denver), Brazil (Nova Lima) and Australia (Perth).
Corporate activities
Activities provided in the corporate area fall into three categories. First, support is provided to the executive officers in managing AngloGold as a whole. Second, certain activities are managed centrally, including strategic and business planning, marketing, corporate finance, treasury, exploration, technology and innovation, corporate secretarial and corporate affairs. Third, certain specialized services are directed from the center although they are managed by operations. These include mining, engineering, metallurgy, mineral resource management, safety and health, the environment and human resources.
AngloGold has investments in numerous principal subsidiaries and joint venture interests, see "Item 19.: Exhibits" for details.
AngloGold's operations are subject to the applicable environmental laws, rules and regulations of the various countries and jurisdictions within which they are conducted. Except as set out elsewhere herein, AngloGold believes its operations are in substantial compliance with all material environmental laws, rules and regulations which are applicable to it. In some of the jurisdictions within which AngloGold operates, AngloGold is required to provide financial assurance in a form prescribed by law to cover the cost of some or all of the anticipated closure and final rehabilitation costs for its operations. The form, amount and other requirements associated with this financial assurance for each of the jurisdictions is set out in detail in each of the applicable laws, rules and regulations.
Environmental audits of AngloGold's operations are performed periodically to evaluate performance of the operations against applicable requirements.
AngloGold's estimated future environmental rehabilitation obligations as at December 31, 2003 are as follows:
South African operations
Environment: South African law requires that AngloGold calculate its estimated environmental closure and final rehabilitation costs for operations which are subject to the requirements of the law. The law also requires that this estimate be used by AngloGold to make periodic cash contributions to an environmental trust fund (or use some other approved funding mechanism), created in accordance with rehabilitation obligations of those operations. It is anticipated that these estimates are likely to change as additional, operation-specific information is gained and if, and as, closure and final rehabilitation requirements change.
Certain amounts have been contributed to an irrevocable rehabilitation trust under AngloGold's control for rehabilitation of the mines and related facilities located in South Africa. The monies in this trust are invested primarily in interest-bearing debt securities.
AngloGold intends to finance the ultimate rehabilitation costs from the monies invested with the rehabilitation trust fund, from the proceeds on sale of assets and gold from plant clean-up at the time of mine closure as well as from internally generated funds.
In order to maintain compliance with the EMPRs, AngloGold meets periodically with the relevant government departments to review its operations in the light of the provisions contained within the relevant EMPRs.
Since the South Africa region employs by far the most people, and has the largest number of operations, its community and environmental impact is greater there than anywhere else. The aim of the South Africa region is to create a balance between the impact on the natural and social environments in which it operates while at the same time, ensuring that it delivers significant and lasting benefits to employees, their communities and other stakeholders, in partnership with government, international agencies, labor, health and non-governmental organizations. As a result of historical and current social- economic imperatives, the role played by the company in social issues is significant.
An amended Environmental Management Program Report for the West Wits and Vaal River operations was submitted to the Department of Minerals and Energy in November 2002. A number of these reports were approved during 2003 with the outstanding ones still pending administrative processing. Water usage and management remains a key area of focus.
Water balances were updated and redesigned to ensure a more user-friendly and comprehensive system. Water monitoring programs and procedures for ground and surface water were developed and implemented at the Vaal River and West Wits operations and a quarterly reporting and analysis system was rolled out across the region. Geotechnical assessment of rock dumps and tailings storage facilities, indicating pollution potential and associated time periods, were completed. This is the first time such an assessment has been undertaken in the South African gold mining industry. The main focus for 2004 will be the reduction in potable water usage and the treatment of mine water to reduce the contamination potential on water resources.
During 2002, the region committed itself to the development of an internet-based electronic Environmental Management System. The system is based on ISO14001 principles. The first of five phases, involving policy development and planning, was completed in 2003.
During 2003, the region's Environmental Incident Review system was also further refined, with the emphasis placed on implementation within the operations.
Progress was made with rehabilitation trials at the Ergo Daggafontein tailings dam. The dam was decommissioned in December 2001 and will be rehabilitated to environmental closure standards in terms of the Minerals Act. The final closure plan was submitted to the Department Minerals and Energy for approval.
East and West African operations
Environment: Mine closure costs and their associated provisions are reviewed on an annual basis. The region is working towards standardizing the approach and assumptions used for closure provision estimation at the various operations. Estimates are revised as the understanding of site-based issues that influence closure provision evolves due to technical studies undertaken in the previous year (for example, techniques required for rehabilitating heap leach stacks at Yatela). The dynamic nature of the operations and ongoing rehabilitation means that closure costs can be revised either up or down. Increased closure provisions at a number of operations reflects the development of new infrastructure (for example, satellite pits at Geita).
At the Navachab operation in Namibia, the final closure provision is currently estimated at is $1.38 million. Navachab is wholly-owned by AngloGold.
At Sadiola in Mali, the mine closure provision has been revised to $12.0 million, which reflects the change in local currency exchange rate. AngloGold owns 38 percent of Sadiola and therefore, its share of mine closure liability is $4.56 million. Other shareholders include IAMGOLD, the IFC and the Malian Government.
Construction of the Yatela project in Mali was completed and production commenced in 2001. Closure liability has been revised from $2.8 million to $8.6 million. AngloGold has a 40 percent interest in Yatela and therefore, its share of mine closure liability is $3.44 million. Other shareholders include IAMGOLD and the Malian Government.
The Morila mine in Mali has revised its mine closure liability estimate from $8.4 million to $12.3 million. The Morila Board approved the new estimate of costs in August 2003. Morila has sent a letter to its financiers, N.M. Rothschild & Sons Limited, to confirm that Morila has fulfilled its obligations regarding the Mechanical Completion Certificate issuance, and that its technical advisors, SRK have indicated that the plan is acceptable. Morila's shareholders include AngloGold, RandGold and the Malian Government. AngloGold has a 40 percent interest in Morila and therefore, its share of mine closure liability is $4.92 million.
The Geita mine in Tanzania is subject to six monthly surveillance audits to maintain its ISO4001 certification. The mine has increased its estimated closure liability from $12 million to $22.2 million. Ashanti is the other shareholder.
Sustainable development and social investment: AngloGold's aim of ensuring sustainable development is particularly pertinent in these regions of Africa, where mining operations are frequently located in inaccessible areas, largely untouched by industrial and economic development. Responsible mining practices, with the full involvement of local communities and governments, can ensure that long-term benefits accrue to the regions, even after mining has ceased.
Structures have been established at each of the operations to deal with the communities. These structures take the form of community committees or boards of executors of trusts with mine management participation. A key focus is the building of capacity within these structures and the creation of a greater sense of ownership which will ensure sustainability after mine closure.
At Sadiola and Yatela Mines an intergrated development plan is being developed which entails the identification of sustainable community-driven projects. At Morila Mine the mine has pledged the $500,000 for the setting up of a community trust fund.
At Geita Mine the Nyakabale agro project has been a remarkable success. It was established in June 2001 and to date 48 farmers from the local community have been trained and registered. Moringa seeds are being sold in Dar Es Salam and vegetables are sold to the mines contract catering company and the broader community. The project is now realizing a profit and is growing from strength to strength.
At all operations, as a policy, preference is given to candidates from the local community when employment opportunities arise. Localization programs have been implemented at all operations with the main focus on the implementation of technical and managerial training programs to fast-track the career development of local employees.
North American operations Environment:
The US operations were subject to environmental inspections by major environmental federal and state regulatory authorities during 2003 and were in substantial compliance with permit requirements with the possible exception of a water quality matter at the CC&V operation, which is discussed more fully below.
Activities continued at the CC&V operation in the State of Colorado under approvals previously obtained from various government entities to expand the operations at the Cresson Project. The approvals obtained in August 2000 included an assessment by the State of Colorado of rehabilitation costs for the expanded operation. This estimate requires CC&V to provide financial assurance in the amount of approximately $52.0 million to cover rehabilitation obligations associated with the full build-out of the expansion. The total financial assurance now posted under Colorado law for the CC&V operation is approximately $41.5 million to cover rehabilitation obligations, which amount has been posted with the State of Colorado in the form of surety bonds by AngloGold via major US insurance companies.
Certain allegations were raised by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2001 related to self-reported excursions of CC&V's discharge permits in 1996 - 1999 and alleged discharges without necessary permits. EPA and the Colorado Water Quality Control Division (WQCD) evaluated significant information provided by CC&V relating to the allegations and after months of negotiations entered into two administrative settlements with CC&V and others in September 2002 to resolve EPA's allegations. Notwithstanding various available defenses, no in-stream exceedances and the last alleged excursion occurring nearly three years prior to entering into the settlements, CC&V and its joint venture partners made a conscious decision that attempting to settle the matter, rather than continuing with protracted and divisive litigation, was in the best interests of their employees and the communities where CC&V operates. The two settlement documents became final after public comment in the first quarter 2003 and CC&V has undertaken all required action under the documents.
Activist groups have again threatened to pursue anti-mining initiatives in the State of Colorado in 2004. In 2002 and 2003, anti-mining legislation that would eliminate the use of cyanide heap leaching technologies for gold and silver associated with silver mining was introduced but defeated. In 2000, a similar anti-mining ballot initiative was proposed but unsuccessful. New legislation was required to be filed with the Colorado Senate by January 23, 2004 and the Colorado House by January 28, 2004. No bill was introduced by these deadlines; however, other avenues still exist for introducing legislation by filing a late status bill or amending an existing bill. The legislative session ends on May 5, 2004. A ballot initiative can be filed with the State of Colorado until approximately August 7, 2004 for the November 2004 election. As at March 15, 2004, no ballot initiative has been filed.
One of the Morro Velho underground mines, Mina Velha, was closed in October 2003. Dismantling and clean up is being undertaken.
Morro Velho was audited during the first quarter and gained a NOSA (Integrated System of Occupational Health, Safety and Environment) 4-star rating. In late 2003, Cerro Vanguardia was re-audited and achieved a NOSA 4-star rating besides maintaining the ISO 14001 certification. Serra Grande was re-audited keeping its NOSA 5-star rating. Both Morro Velho and Serra Grande are seeking to be ISO 14001 certified.
Environmental and social issues continue to receive attention. There is an ongoing environmental program that includes an improved waste collection and recycling campaign during the year, significantly reducing the amount of waste generated by the company.
At Serra Grande, an ongoing partnership project with the Federal Environmental Agency allows the Serra Grande Preservation Centre to house endangers species of birds. The Centre also comprises an indigenous botanical nursery with an annual production of 3,500 plants.
Sustainable development and social investment: In line with AngloGold's policy of sustainable development, the South American operations are actively involved in forming partnerships with local municipalities, communities and other institutions towards the upliftment of communities in which its operations are located. Examples of these are the agreement with the National University of Southern Patagonia for the monitoring of the flora, fauna and soil in the region of Cerro Vanguardia mine, aimed at preserving animal and plant species and maintaining water and soil quality. In addition, 3,101 fourth grade students attended the environmental educational program at The Harry Oppenheimer Centre for Environmental Education in Nova Lima.
Australian operations
Environment: Environmental management and compliance, as well as the promotion of social development in the regions in which the company operates, continued as a matter of priority during 2003. AngloGold Australia reported nine Category 3 incidents during the year compared with two incidents in 2002.
A Health, Safety, Environmental and Community Performance Report covering AngloGold's Australian operations was published. The publication is a requirement for signatories to the Australian Minerals Industry Code for Environmental Management (Code). AngloGold's Australian operations are signatories to the Code. The operations were in substantial compliance with material requirements of applicable Australian law.
The Union Reefs operation closed in late 2003. A detailed closure plan, addressing environmental, stakeholder and community issues, was approved by the Northern Territory Government. Rehabilitation of worked out open-pits, waste rock dumps and tailings disposal areas was advanced during 2003. The Union Reefs mine is on care and maintenance.
The Sunrise Dam operation maintained a strong focus on environmental management, with improvements to the Central Tailings Discharge area, internal auditing of cyanide management and continued compliance with license conditions. Statutory approvals were received for the development of an underground mine and the construction of associated infrastructure. Where possible at Sunrise Dam during 2003, disturbed land was progressively rehabilitated.
The Tanami process plant and associated service and tailings disposal facilities were leased to a third party for processing third party ore for a period of up to four years from 2001. The Tanami joint venture partners are not liable for the impact of these third party activities. Those parts of the Tanami operation that were not subject to the lease agreement are progressively being rehabilitated.
Estimated closure rehabilitation liabilities for the Australian operations at December 31, 2003 are:
Mine
For further discussions of AngloGold's property, plants and equipment, see "Item 4B.: Business overview" as well as note 16 to the consolidated financial statements "Provision for environmental rehabilitation".
Overview
5A.
In addition, to fund local operations and comply with South African exchange controls, AngloGold holds funds in local currencies, such as the rand and Australian dollar. The US dollar value of these currencies may be affected by exchange rate fluctuations and, as a result, AngloGold's cash and cash equivalents reported in US dollars could change. At December 31, 2003, approximately 63 percent of AngloGold's cash and cash equivalents were held in such currencies.
Certain exchange controls are currently in force in South Africa. Although the exchange rate of the rand is primarily market determined, its value at any time may not be considered a true reflection of the underlying value of the rand while exchange controls exist. The government has indicated its intention to lift exchange controls over time. When this occurs, rand exchange rates will be more closely tied to market forces. It is not possible to predict when this will occur or the future value of the rand. For a detailed discussion of these exchange controls, see "Item 10D.: Exchange controls".
Effect of inflation
AngloGold's operations have not been materially adversely affected by inflation in recent years. However, AngloGold is unable to control the prices at which it sells its gold (except to the limited extent that it utilizes commodity instruments) and it is possible, therefore, that if, there is to be significant inflation in South Africa, and to a lesser extent in South America and Australia, without a concurrent devaluation of the local currency or an increase in the price of gold, there could be a material adverse effect upon AngloGold's results and financial condition.
The rand/US dollar exchange rate, based upon average rates during the respective years, and the local annual inflation rate, as measured by the South African Producer Price Index (PPI), are set out in the table below:
Year ended December 31
AngloGold has utilized commodity instruments to protect the selling price of some of its anticipated gold production. Although the use of these instruments may protect a company against low gold prices, it will only do so for a limited period and only to the extent the hedge book can be sustained. The use of such instruments may also prevent full participation in subsequent increases in the market price for gold with respect to covered production. For a discussion of AngloGold's commodity instruments, see "Item 11.: Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk".
The Washington Agreement on sales of gold by European central banks expires in less than nine months' time. Public statements by a number of senior European central bank officials at the Dubai meeting of the International Monetary Fund in 2003 indicate that there is little doubt that the agreement will be renewed, and good reason to expect that the behaviour of the signatories to this agreement will follow the precedent of the behaviour of these banks over the past four years.
Comparison of operating performance in 2003, 2002 and 2001
The following table presents operating data for the AngloGold group for the three year period ended December 31, 2003:
Operating data for AngloGold
For the year ended December 31, 2002, AngloGold's total gold production decreased by 1,044,000 ounces, or about 15 percent, to 5.94 million ounces from 6.98 million ounces produced in 2001. Gold production from operations located in South Africa decreased by 27 percent from 4,670,000 ounces produced in 2001 to 3,412,000 ounces in 2002. This was mainly the result of the disposal of the Free State assets, which produced 1,199,000 ounces in the year ended December 31, 2001, as well as the disposal of Deelkraal and Elandsrand, which produced 35,000 ounces in 2001. Excluding production from these operations, total gold production would have increased by 3 percent from 5,749,000 ounces produced in 2001 to 5,939,000 ounces produced in 2002 and South African gold production would have decreased by 1 percent from 3,436,000 ounces produced in 2001 to 3,412,000 ounces produced in 2002. Gold production in East and West Africa increased by 25 percent or 217,000 ounces from 868,000 ounces in 2001 to 1,085,000 ounces in 2002. The main contributors were Morila where gold production increased by 169,000 ounces due to an unusually high recovered grade during 2002; Geita, where gold production increased by 17,000 ounces in 2002; the Yatela project in Mali, where gold production increased by 55,000 ounces; and Sadiola where gold production decreased by 22,000 ounces during 2002. Gold production in the North America region decreased by 7 percent or 34,000 ounces from 496,000 ounces in 2001 to 462,000 ounces in 2002.
A more detailed review of gold production at each of AngloGold's operations is provided under "Item 4B.: Business overview".
The total cash cost for the year ended December 31, 2002 was $161 per ounce, $17 per ounce, or 10 percent, lower than cash costs of $178 per ounce recorded in 2001. Of the $17 per ounce reduction in total cash costs over 2002, $24 per ounce related to the weakening of the South African rand against the US dollar. This change is mainly due to substantially lower cash cost recorded in the South African operations which decreased by 14 percent in 2002 when compared with 2001. Total cash costs at the South African operations decreased mainly for two reasons in 2002: firstly, due to the devaluation of the South African rand relative to the US dollar and, secondly, due to the disposal of relatively high cost producing operations, such as the disposal in February 2001 of Deelkraal and Elandsrand that recorded cash costs of $331 per ounce and $362 per ounce, respectively, in 2001, as well as the disposal of the Free State assets and Joel in January 2002. North America's total cash cost increased by 5 percent from 2001, mainly due to the higher usage and pricing of consumables and contract services focused on achieving higher production. East and West African, South American and the Australian regions recorded a decrease in total cash costs of 2 percent, 6 percent and 1 percent, respectively, in 2002 when compared with 2001.
Total production costs per ounce increased from $218 per ounce to $288 per ounce over 2003 and decreased from $235 per ounce to $218 per ounce over 2002.
A more detailed review of total cash costs and total production costs at each of AngloGold's operations is provided under "Item 4B.: Business overview".
Total cash costs as calculated and reported by AngloGold include costs for all mining, processing, administration, royalties and production taxes, as well as contributions from by-products, but exclusive of depreciation, depletion and amortization, rehabilitation, employment severance costs, corporate administration costs, capital costs and exploration costs. Total cash costs per ounce are calculated by dividing attributable total cash costs by attributable ounces of gold produced. Total cash costs have been calculated on a consistent basis for all periods presented.
Total production costs, as defined in the Gold Institute industry standard are total cash costs, as calculated using the Gold Institute industry standard, plus amortization, depreciation and rehabilitation costs.
Total production costs as calculated and reported by AngloGold include total cash costs, plus depreciation, depletion and amortization, employee severance costs and rehabilitation and other non-cash costs. Total production costs per ounce are calculated by dividing attributable total production costs by attributable ounces of gold produced. Total production costs have been calculated on a consistent basis for all periods presented.
Total cash costs and total production costs should not be considered by investors in isolation or as alternatives to production costs, net income/(loss) applicable to common stockholders, income/(loss) before income tax provision, net cash provided by operating activities or any other measure of financial performance presented in accordance with US GAAP or as an indicator of the company's performance. While the Gold Institute has provided definitions for the calculation of total cash costs and total production costs, the calculation of total cash costs, total cash costs per ounce, total production costs and total production costs per ounce may vary significantly among gold mining companies, and by themselves do not necessarily provide a basis for comparison with other gold mining companies. However, the company believes that total cash costs and total production costs in total by mine and per ounce by mine are useful indicators to investors and management of a mine's performance as they provide:
an indication of a mine's profitability, efficiency and cash flows;
the trend in costs as the mining operations mature over time on a consistent basis; and
an internal benchmark of performance to allow for comparison against other mining companies.
A reconciliation of production costs as included in the company's audited financial statements to total cash costs and to total production costs for each of the three years in the period ending December 31, 2003 is presented below. In addition the company has also provided below detail of the attributable ounces of gold produced by mine for each of those periods.
South African operations
East and West African, North American, South American and Australian operations
(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)
AngloGold operations - Total
(in $ millions, except as otherwise noted)
The decrease in North America was mainly due to the completion of the Cresson Mine expansion at Cripple Creek & Victor in the third quarter of 2002. East and West African and South American regions recorded capital expenditure of $26 million and $43 million in 2003, compared to $27 million and $27 million, respectively, in 2002. Capital expenditures on other minor projects decreased from $6 million in 2002 to $4 million in 2003. Total capital expenditure during the year ended December 31, 2002 was $271 million compared with $298 million in 2001, which represents a $27 million, or 9 percent, decrease in capital expenditure on a group level. In South Africa, capital expenditure increased from $96 million spent in 2001 to $106 million for 2002, mainly due to the construction of the Vaal River number 8 mill which was mainly completed in 2003 to be used by both Great Noligwa and Moab Khotsong. Capital expenditure in the North American and Australian regions, decreased from $93 million and $42 million spent in 2001 to $74 million and $31 million spent in 2002, respectively, mainly due to the completion of the expansion projects at Cripple Creek and Victor (in the US) during 2002 and Sunrise Dam in the Australian region in May 2001. East and West African and South American regions recorded capital expenditures of $27 million and $27 million in 2002, compared to $34 million and $23 million, respectively, in 2001. Capital expenditures on other minor projects decreased from $10 million in 2001 to $6 million in 2002.
A more detailed review of capital expenditure at each of AngloGold's operations is provided under "Item 4B.: Business overview".
Comparison of financial performance on a segment basis for 2003, 2002 and 2001
AngloGold produces gold as its primary product and does not have distinct divisional segments in terms of principal business activity, but manages its business on the basis of five different geographic segments.
In 2002, 54 percent of AngloGold's total revenues were derived from its operations in South Africa, compared to 63 percent in 2001. Operations in East and West Africa accounted for 19 percent of AngloGold's total revenues during 2002, compared to 12 percent in 2001. This decrease in South African and increase in East and West African revenues as a percentage of total revenues is due to three reasons: first, the divestiture at the beginning of 2002 of the Free State assets situated in South Africa; second, revenue derived from the Yatela project in Mali where gold production commenced in the third quarter of 2001; and third, revenue derived from the Morila operations as mining intersected a localized area of high grade ore in the third quarter of 2002. During the year ended December 31, 2002, revenues generated from Yatela and Morila amounted to $33 million and $130 million, compared to $16 million and $69 million in 2001. In 2002, North America, South America and Australia accounted for approximately 9 percent, 11 percent and 7 percent of total revenues compared with 8 percent, 9 percent and 8 percent, respectively, in 2001. The increase in revenues from the South American operations as a percentage of total revenues is due mainly to the full year impact of the additional 46.25 percent interest acquired in July 2002 in the Cerro Vanguardia mine located in Argentina.
At December 31, 2002, 49 percent of AngloGold's total assets were located in South Africa, compared with 46 percent at the end of 2001. East and West African assets of AngloGold represented 18 percent of AngloGold's total assets at December 31, 2002 while at the end of the same period in 2001 this share was 20 percent. The increase in the value of the South African assets as a percentage of total assets was mainly due to the strengthening of the South African rand relative to the US dollar in 2002, when compared with 2001, which increased the value of South African assets relative to the value of total assets in US dollar terms. The increase in the value of the South African assets is partially offset by the absolute decrease in South African assets consequent on divestiture of the Free State assets at the beginning of 2002. As part of this transaction, as at December 31, 2001, the value of the Free State assets was written down by $173 million to the net selling price as negotiated with Harmony and African Rainbow Minerals Gold Limited.
Comparison of financial performance in 2003 with 2002
Production costs relating to East and West Africa increased from $128 million in 2002 to $156 million in 2003, mainly as a result of: throughput being affected by damage to the SAG mill motor causing a 39-hour plant shutdown, delays in the commissioning of the plant expansion project at Morila, increased reagent costs associated with increased treatment of sulphide material and increased metallurgical plant maintenance costs at Sadiola and at Yatela, where the installation in June 2003 of new crushers to replace the mineral sizers led to increased throughput in the second half of the year, despite the initial problems experienced with the commissioning of the new crusher circuit. Production costs relating to the North American operations decreased from $91 million in 2002 to $80 million in 2003, mainly as a result of the disposal of AngloGold's 70 percent interest in the Jerritt Canyon Joint Venture with effect from June 30, 2003. The South American and Australian operations recorded production costs of $79 million and $104 million in 2003, compared to $63 million and $94 million in 2002, respectively.
5B.
2003
Net cash provided by operating activities was $453 million in 2003, 24 percent lower than the 2002 amount of $594 million. The decrease in net cash provided by operating activities over 2002 is mainly the result of a decrease in AngloGold's profitability due to higher unit cash costs per ounce, being offset by higher unit prices of gold during 2003 when compared with 2002.
Net cash outflow from operating working capital items amounted to $106 million in 2003, compared with net cash outflow from operating working capital items of $16 million in 2002. The increase in cash outflow from operating working capital items over 2002 is mainly due to the impact of exchange rate fluctuations in South Africa and Australia relative to the US dollar, as well as inventory build-up at Cripple Creek & Victor and Nufcor International Limited.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $594 million in 2002, 19 percent higher than the 2001 amount of $501 million. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities over 2001 is mainly the result of the increase in AngloGold's profitability due to higher unit prices of gold and lower unit cash costs per ounce during 2002 compared with 2001.
AngloGold declares interim dividends at the time of announcing its interim results and declares and pays final dividends in the following year based on the previous year's results.
2002
Net cash used in financing activities increased by $58 million from $298 million in 2001 to $356 million in 2002. This net increase in cash used in financing activities was the result, on the one hand, of the repayment of $654 million of maturing debt, including $121 million to Credit Agricole and $355 million on the matured unsecured syndicated loan facility, while the balance of loan repayments comprised normal scheduled payments in terms of loan agreements. On the other hand, $585 million was drawn and $120 million was repaid under the $600 million unsecured syndicated borrowing facility which AngloGold entered into on February 7, 2002 and $175 million was drawn and $120 million was repaid under the existing $400 million unsecured syndicated loan facility during 2002. In addition, on October 14, 2002, a new loan facility of A$50 million was arranged with the Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited for AngloGold. The loan is repayable by September 2003. At December 31, 2002, A$15 million ($9 million) had been drawn under this facility.
During 2002, AngloGold issued 7,353,906 ordinary shares as follows: 478,720 ordinary shares were issued pursuant to the AngloGold Share Incentive Scheme, 66,598 ordinary shares were issued in terms of the Acacia Employee Option Plan, 278,196 ordinary shares were issued as part of the odd-lot offer by AngloGold, 6,403,236 ordinary shares were issued in terms of the Normandy offer and 127,156 ordinary shares were issued in respect of the top-up facility in terms of the Normandy offer in 2001. Proceeds from the above issuances of common stock amounted to $18 million in 2002.
Dividends paid increased from $167 million in 2001 to $260 million in 2002. AngloGold declares interim dividends at the time of announcing the interim results and declares and pays final dividends in the following year based on the previous year's results. The increase is due to a total dividend payment of 113 US cents (1,225 South African cents) per ordinary share in 2002, compared with 84 US cents (675 South African cents) per ordinary share in 2001.
Liquidity
AngloGold's revenues are derived primarily from the sale of gold produced at its mines. Cash generated by operating activities is therefore, the function of gold produced sold at a specific price. As the market price of gold can fluctuate widely, this may negatively impact on the profitability of AngloGold's operations and the cash flows generated by these operations. AngloGold uses a number of products, including derivatives to manage gold price and foreign exchange risks, that arise out of the group's core business activities to limit the impact on the profitability of AngloGold's operations and generated cash flows.
AngloGold's cash and cash equivalents increased to $505 million at December 31, 2003 compared with $413 million at December 31, 2002. In accordance with South African Reserve Bank regulations, cash generated by South African operations is held in rands. At December 31, 2003, approximately 28 percent of AngloGold's cash and cash equivalents were held in US dollars, 62 percent were held in South African rands, 1 percent were held in Australian dollars and 9 percent were held in other currencies.
As at December 31, 2003, AngloGold's total long-term debt, including the short-term portion maturing within 2004, was made up as follows:
At December 31, 2003 the currencies in which the borrowings were denominated were as follows:
At December 31, 2003 and January 31, 2004, AngloGold had the following undrawn borrowing facilities:
Sensitivity analysis
Variables
As at December 31, 2003 Anglo American plc (AA plc) and its subsidiaries held an effective 54.45 percent (2002: 51.41 percent) interest in AngloGold.
The group had the following transactions with related parties during the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002:
Recently adopted accounting policies and pending adoption of new accounting standards
AngloGold's accounting policies are described in note 3 to the consolidated financial statements "Significant accounting policies". New accounting policies and recent pronouncements are described in note 3.19 to the consolidated financial statements "Recent pronouncements".
The statement provides accounting and reporting guidance for legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction or normal operations of long-lived assets. SFAS143 applies to legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction and/or the normal operation of a long-lived asset.
Under SFAS143 the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation is recorded in the period in which it is incurred. When the liability is initially recorded, the cost is capitalized by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. Over time, the liability is increased to reflect an interest element (accretion) considered in its initial measurement at fair value, and the capitalized cost is amortized over the useful life of the related asset. Where the obligation is operational of nature, and does not give rise to future economic benefit, the capitalized cost is amortized in the period incurred. Upon settlement of the liability, a gain or loss will be recorded if the actual cost incurred is different than the liability recorded.
The adoption of SFAS143 on January 1, 2003 resulted in an increase in Property, plant and equipment of $1 million, an increase in Provision for environmental rehabilitation of $4 million and a cumulative effect of adoption which decreased net income and stockholder's equity by $3 million. No increase in Deferred income and mining tax was recorded upon the adoption of SFAS143.
In December 2003, the FASB revised FIN 46 ("the Revised Interpretation").
In the Revised Interpretation the FASB agreed to a revised model for adoption of the Interpretation's provisions. Effective dates now differ based on whether variable interests (1) are held by public companies and the entities under evaluation were previously evaluated using the provisions of EITF Topic No. D-14, "Transactions involving Special-Purpose Entities", or EITF Issue No. 90-15, "Impact of Nonsubstantive Lessors, Residual Value Guarantees, and Other Provisions in Leasing Transactions" (such interests were generally held in entities previously commonly referred to as SPEs), (2) are held by public companies that are filers under Regulation S-B and (3) are held by non-public companies.
Based on the FASB's decisions, all public companies must apply the provisions of Interpretation or the Revised Interpretation to variable interests in SPEs (created before February 1, 2003) no later than the end of periods ending after December 15, 2003 (December 31, 2003 for calendar year end companies). Public companies may choose to apply the provisions of the Interpretation or the Revised Interpretation to interests held in SPEs created prior to February 1, 2003 in financial statements for periods ending after December 15, 2003 (that is, December 31, 2003 financial statements). However, if a Company chooses to report using the Interpretation's provisions, it must apply the Revised Interpretation's provisions to those variable interests in financial statements for periods ending after March 15, 2004.
Public companies that have applied the Interpretation's provisions to variable interests in entities newly created subsequent to January 31, 2003, or have early adopted the Interpretation's provisions for some or all variable interests in entities created prior to February 1, 2003 may continue to apply the Interpretation's provisions in financial statements for periods ending after December 15, 2003, or may choose to early adopt the Revised Interpretation's provisions. AngloGold does not have any SPE's as defined in the Interpretation or the Revised Interpretation that were created prior to February 1, 2003. AngloGold has not created any variable interest entities between January 31, 2003 and December 31, 2003. AngloGold does not expect to identify any variable interest entities that were created prior to February 1, 2003, for which the adoption date is the first interim or annual reporting period after March 15, 2004.
In May 2003, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 150, "Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity" ("SFAS150"). SFAS150 provides guidance regarding classification of freestanding financial instruments as liabilities (or assets in some circumstances). SFAS150 is generally effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003, otherwise at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003 and is to be applied prospectively. Nonpublic companies originally were not required to apply the provisions of SFAS150 to mandatorily redeemable financial instruments until the first fiscal period for which GAAP financial statements are prepared beginning after December 15, 2003.
The provisions of SFAS150 that are not yet effective for AngloGold are not expected to have a material impact on AngloGold's earnings and financial position.
In December 2003, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 132 (revised 2003), "Employers' Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, and 106" ("SFAS132") (revised 2003).
SFAS132 (revised 2003) revises employers' disclosures about pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. It does not change the measurement or recognition of those plans required by FASB Statements No. 87, "Employers' Accounting for Pensions", No. 88, "Employers' Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits", and No. 106, "Employers' Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions". This Statement retains the disclosure requirements contained in FASB Statement No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits", which it replaces. It requires additional disclosures to those in the original SFAS132 about the assets, obligations, cash flows, and net periodic benefit cost of defined benefit pension plans and other defined benefit postretirement plans. The required information should be provided separately for pension plans and for other postretirement benefit plans.
The provisions of the original SFAS132 remain in effect until the provisions of SFAS132 (revised 2003) are adopted. Except as noted below, SFAS132 (revised 2003) is effective for financial statements with fiscal years ending after December 15, 2003. The interim-period disclosures required by this Statement are effective for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2003. Disclosure of information about foreign plans, estimated future benefit payments and certain information for nonpublic entities is effective for fiscal years ending after June 15, 2004. The disclosures for earlier annual periods presented for comparative purposes should be restated for (a) the percentages of each major category of plan assets held, (b) the accumulated benefit obligation, and (c) the assumptions used in the accounting for the plans. The disclosures for earlier interim periods presented for comparative purposes should be restated for the components of net benefit cost. As at December 31, 2003, AngloGold has adopted the disclosures as required by SFAS132 (revised 2003).
Critical accounting policies
AngloGold's accounting policies are described in note 3 to the consolidated financial statements "Significant accounting policies". The preparation of AngloGold's financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America require management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the year. The following are considered to be the accounting policies that are most critical to AngloGold's results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
5C.
AngloGold will implement a change in the accounting treatment of Ore Reserve development expenditure with effect from January 1, 2004. Previously, a portion of this expenditure was expensed in the period that such expenditure was incurred. In line with many major gold producers, from 2004 AngloGold will capitalize Ore Reserve development expenditure and amortize this over the life of the relevant mining area to which such expenditure applies.
Assuming that the US dollar exchange rates of the currencies in the countries where AngloGold operates remain at similar levels in 2004 to the average exchange rates achieved in 2003, and allowing for the change in treatment of Ore Reserve development expenditure outlined above, AngloGold anticipates that its total cash costs per ounce will increase to $245 per ounce in 2004 compared with $229 per ounce in 2003. Capital expenditure for 2004 is expected to be higher than in 2003, primarily as a result of the inclusion of Ore Reserve development expense as discussed above.
Growth opportunities. In addition to continuously monitoring and evaluating prospective acquisitions, including the Business Combination, AngloGold's management has identified a number of medium- to long-term organic growth opportunities. In South Africa, approved projects include the Mponeng deepening project (at a projected capital cost of ZAR1.3 billion, which is anticipated to yield 4.0 million ounces between 2004 and 2016), the development of the Moab Khotsong Mine (at a projected capital cost of ZAR4.2 billion) where initial mining commenced in November 2003 and commercial production is expected to be achieved in 2006, which is anticipated to yield in excess of 4.0 million ounces over the anticipated life of Moab Khotsong Phase 1, as well as four projects at TauTona Mine (at an aggregate projected capital cost of ZAR1.6 billion and which are anticipated to yield 4.1 million ounces over the next 11 years), in particular, the TauTona expansion project, the TauTona Carbon Leader below 120 level project and the TauTona VCR pillar and Area A projects. Another approved project is the Vaal River surface project, which, at a projected capital cost of ZAR182 million, is anticipated to yield 1.1 million ounces from 2004. In the United States the Cripple Creek & Victor Expansion was approved and has been fully commissioned. In addition, a number of other projects are under consideration. These include the Cuiaba expansion project in Brazil, the Moab Khotsong Phase 2 and the Mponeng VCR 120 to 125 level projects in South Africa, as well as the Sunrise Dam underground project and the Boddington expansion project in Australia.
AngloGold will also continue brownfields and greenfields exploration in accordance with its global exploration strategy. Exploration will continue in the countries in which AngloGold already has operations, namely in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Tanzania, Mali, Namibia, South Africa and the United States. AngloGold's greenfields exploration program targets the addition of approximately 13 million new ounces to AngloGold's production between 2001 and 2015, at a discovery cost of below $30 per ounce. This program comprises projects in Australia, Canada, Mali, Mongolia, Peru and the United States.
5E.
A number of derivatives are used to manage gold price risks that arise out of the group's core business activities. Gold pricing contracts that meet the SFAS138 exemption for Normal Purchase and Sale do not appear on the balance sheet. These agreements are accounted for as sales contracts with the proceeds under the contract being recorded in earnings at the date of settlement by physical delivery. These off-balance sheet contracts are managed as part of AngloGold's gold price risk management activities and, at December 31, 2003 had a marked-to-market value of negative $360 million. All other derivatives are recognized on the balance sheet at fair value. See "Item 11.: Quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk" and note 21 to the consolidated financial statements "Gold price and currency risk management activities".
Future rehabilitation liability
The unaccrued portion of the future rehabilitation liability is an off-balance sheet obligation. See "Item 4D.: Property, plants and equipment" and note 16 to the consolidated financial statements "Provision for environmental rehabilitation". It is an objective of AngloGold to improve operating procedures at its mines to reduce its ultimate liability. AngloGold believes that the annual review of future obligations is conservative.
FIN 45 guarantees
The letter of credit provided by AngloGold in favor of the Geita project finance lenders of $19 million as at December 31, 2003 meets the definition of a financial guarantee under FIN 45. This guarantee would be subject to the recognition requirements of FIN 45 if the terms of the guarantee were to change. See note 19 to the consolidated financial statements "Commitments and contingencies" and note 15 to the consolidated financial statements "Long-term debt".
5F.
(in millions)
AngloGold has a unitary board structure which currently comprises four executive directors and thirteen non-executive directors, three of whom are alternates. Certain information with respect to AngloGold's current directors is set forth below:
Robert (Bobby) M. Godsell, BA, MA. Mr Godsell was appointed to the AngloGold board as chief executive officer in April 1998 and as chairman in December 2000. He relinquished his role as chairman of AngloGold in May 2002. He has in excess of 30 years of service with companies associated with the mining industry, and has served as a non-executive director of Anglo American plc since March 1999. He is also a past chairman of the World Gold Council.
Jonathan G. Best, ACIS, ACIMA, MBA. Mr Best was appointed finance director in April 1998. He has had 35 years of service with companies associated with the mining industry.
David (Dave) L. Hodgson, BSc (Mining Engineering), BSc (Civil Engineering), BCom, AMP (Harvard). Mr Hodgson was appointed to the AngloGold board in November 2001 as chief operating officer. He was previously executive officer responsible for AngloGold's South Africa region. He has more than 30 years of mining experience.
Kelvin H. Williams, BA (Hons). Mr Williams was appointed marketing director in April 1998. He has had 28 years of service with companies associated with the mining industry, and is the chairman of Rand Refinery and is a director of the World Gold Council.
Non-executive directors
Russell P. Edey, FCA. Mr Edey was appointed to the AngloGold board in April 1998 and as deputy chairman in December 2000. In May 2002 he was appointed chairman when Bobby Godsell relinquished this office. Based in the United Kingdom, he is deputy chairman of N M Rothschild Corporate Finance and a director of a number of other companies.
Thokoana J. (James) Motlatsi, Hon D Soc Sc (Lesotho). Dr Motlatsi was appointed to the AngloGold board in April 1998 and as deputy chairman in May 2002 upon Russell Edey being appointed chairman. He has been associated with the South African mining industry since 1970, and is a past president of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM). He is chief executive officer of TEBA Limited.
Frank B. Arisman, MSc (Finance). Mr Arisman was appointed to the AngloGold board in April 1998. He resides in New York and recently retired, after 32 years of service, from JP Morgan Chase, where he held the position of managing director.
Elisabeth le R. Bradley, BSc, MSc. Mrs Bradley was appointed to the AngloGold board in April 1998. She is non-executive chairman of Wesco Investments Limited, Metair Investments Limited and Toyota SA (Proprietary) Limited and deputy chairman of the South African Institute of International Affairs.
Colin B. Brayshaw, CA(SA), FCA. Mr Brayshaw was appointed to the AngloGold board in April 1998. He is a retired managing partner and chairman of Deloitte & Touche, and is a non-executive director of a number of other companies including Anglo Platinum Corporation, Datatec and Johnnic Holdings. He has been chairman of AngloGold's audit committee (now the audit and corporate governance committee) since April 1997.
Anthony (Tony) W. Lea, BA (Hons). Mr Lea was appointed a director of AngloGold in July 2001. He is finance director of Anglo American plc.
William (Bill) A. Nairn, BSc (Mining Engineering). Mr Nairn has been a member of the AngloGold board since January 2000. He was re-appointed a director in May 2001, having previously been alternate director to Tony Trahar. He is group technical director of Anglo American plc.
Julian Ogilvie Thompson, MA. Mr Ogilvie Thompson was appointed to the AngloGold board in April 1998. He is a non- executive director of Anglo American Corporation (a wholly-owned South African subsidiary of Anglo American plc), having resigned as chairman of Anglo American plc in November 2002. He is a non-executive director of De Beers Consolidated Mines and a director of a number of other companies.
Anthony (Tony) J. Trahar, BCom, CA (SA). Mr Trahar was appointed to the AngloGold board in October 2000. He is chief executive officer of Anglo American plc.
Alternate directors
David D. Barber, FCA, AMP (Harvard). Mr Barber was appointed alternate director to Julian Ogilvie Thompson in April 2002. He is finance director of Anglo American Corporation.
Arthur H. (Harry) Calver, BSc (Hons) Engineering, MDP (UNISA), PMD (Harvard). Mr Calver was appointed alternate director to Bill Nairn in May 2001. He is Head of Engineering at Anglo American plc.
Peter G. Whitcutt, BCom (Hons), CA(SA), MBA. Mr Whitcutt was appointed alternate director to Tony Lea in October 2001. He is Head of Finance at Anglo American plc.
In accordance with the articles of association of AngloGold, all directors must retire at least once every three years by rotation and may be re-elected by shareholders. At the next annual general meeting to be held on April 29, 2004, Mr J G Best, Mrs E le R Bradley, Mr J Ogilvie Thompson, Mr N F Oppenheimer and Mr A J Trahar will retire by rotation. Other than Mr Ogilvie Thompson and Mr Oppenheimer, who have advised that they wish to retire from the board, all directors will offer themselves for re-election at such annual general meeting.
Executive committee
The board of directors of AngloGold has delegated authority to run the day-to-day affairs of the company to an executive committee comprising the four executive directors. The executive committee meets regularly under the chairmanship of the chief executive officer and is mandated to assist in reviewing operations and performance by the AngloGold group, developing strategy and policy proposals for consideration by the board of directors and implementing the directives of the board. Members of the executive committee are:
Name
To assist in the execution of certain of its duties and functions, the executive committee has established an operations sub- committee, a treasury committee and a finance committee, all described below. For information on the other committees established by the board of directors, see "Item 6C.: Board practices".
Operations sub-committee
The objective of this sub-committee is to oversee and monitor the performance of AngloGold's operational activities, implement the strategic objectives of the company and to report to the executive committee on important areas of concern. Members of the sub-committee are appointed by the executive committee and include the executive officers responsible for the various regional operations, together with the executive officers responsible for human resources, corporate affairs, business planning and any senior managers of the company as determined by the executive committee. The sub-committee meets under the chairmanship of the chief operating officer on a regular basis.
The committee meets monthly to discuss and evaluate market conditions, treasury operations and future hedging strategies. The committee operates within clearly defined parameters set by the board.
The members of this committee are:
C B Brayshaw - chairman - non-executive director
This committee, which meets on a regular basis and is responsible for strategy and monitoring of all financial and administrative aspects of the company, comprises:
J G Best (chairman) - executive director - finance
The company secretary attends meetings of the committee.
Executive officers
The executive officers of AngloGold are:
Name
Roberto Carvalho Silva, BAcc, BCorp Admin, holds a degree in Accounting (from the Commerce and Business School, Federal University of Parana, Brazil) and in Corporate Administration (from the Bennett Methodist University, Brazil). He joined the Anglo American Group in Brazil in 1973, having held the position of controller and being involved in all group business. He became administrative and financial manager of De Beers Brazil in 1982, financial and commercial director of Anglo American Corporation's gold division in 1986, and vice president of Minorco Brazil in 1990. In January 1999 he was designated president and CEO of AngloGold South America, and became a member of the executive of AngloGold in February 2000.
Steve Lenahan, BSoc Sc, MSc, graduated in Social Sciences from Natal University. He also holds a Master of Science degree in Industrial Relations from London University. He started his career with De Beers in 1978 and moved subsequently to Anglo American Corporation, where he worked in the industrial relations department, the diamond services division, the public policy department and the corporate office. He became AngloGold's investor relations officer in 1998 and assumed responsibility for corporate affairs in early 2001.
Neville Nicolau, B-TeCh (Mining Engineering), MBA (UCT), along with these qualifications, has completed the MDP and DPLR programs at UNISA and the AMP at Templeton College. He joined Anglo American Corporation in 1979 and has worked at various managerial levels in all the major areas of the South Africa region. He was appointed General Manager of Great Noligwa in 1996. In December 1999 he was appointed technical director of AngloGold South America region and on his return to South Africa in November 2001, he was appointed executive officer - South Africa region.
Nigel Unwin, BA, holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of the Witwatersrand. He began his career with Anglo American Corporation in 1974 in the human resources department and in 1977 transferred to the gold and uranium division. He was appointed manpower consultant in 1987. He moved to Edgars Stores Limited as human resources executive in 1991. He was appointed AngloGold's executive officer for strategic planning and labor relations in January 1999 and assumed responsibility for the Australia region in November 1999, for information technology in November 2000 and for human resources in January 2001. He relinquished his executive officer responsibilities for AngloGold's Australia region during 2002.
Office of corporate administration
Yedwa Simelane, BA, LLB, FILPA (Fellow of the Institute of Life and Pension Advisors), MAP, was appointed managing secretary, with effect from November 1, 2000 to provide guidance to the board of directors and executive officers in the execution of their duties. She was previously with the Mineworkers Provident Fund, where she was the senior manager of the fund, advising on employee benefits, retirement funding options and risk insurance. Prior to that, she was employed as an Employee Benefits Consultant at Old Mutual Employee Benefits and at the then Alexander Forbes NBC.
Chris Bull, BCom, has been employed by the Anglo American Corporation group for the past 38 years in various company secretarial positions. He was appointed company secretary of AngloGold in 1998 and is responsible for ensuring compliance with statutory and corporate governance requirements and the regulations of the stock exchanges on which AngloGold is listed.
Competent persons
The schedule below presents the details of those persons who manage AngloGold's ore reserves and mineral resources:
Name
Ben Guenther, BSc (Mining Engineering), MAusIMM, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering from the Colorado School of Mines. He joined Minorco in 1995. He was appointed Vice President and General Manager AngloGold (Jerritt Canyon) in 1999 and in September 2000 was appointed head of mining at the corporate office.
Dave Worrall, ACSM, MAusIMM, is an Associate of the Camborne School of Mines in Cornwall, England. He joined Anglo American Corporation in 1981 as a senior mine planning engineer in the technical director's office and AngloGold in 1999 as manager surface mining in the corporate office, the position he currently holds.
Jurgens van Zyl Visser, BSc (Minerals Resource Management), PLATO, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mineral Resource Management from the University of the Witwatersrand. He started his career with Anglo American Corporation in 1975 as a surveyor at President Steyn Mine (now Bambanani mine). He joined AngloGold in 1998 as a divisional valuator and in 1999 was appointed as manager survey and planning - South African region.
The following persons, as defined under the JORC Code, take corporate responsibility for the reporting of AngloGold's mineral resources:
Vaughan Chamberlain, MSc (Mining Engineering), BSc (Hons) (Geology), MAusIMM, holds a Bachelor of Science (Honors) degree in Geology from the University of Natal and a Masters degree in Mining Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand. He started his career with Anglo American Corporation in 1987 as a geologist at Western Deep Levels East Mine (now TauTona mine). He joined AngloGold in 1998 as manager evaluation in the mineral resource department, the position he currently holds.
Mike O'Brien, MSc (Engineering), BSc (Hons) (Geology), Dip Data, Pr.Sci.Nat., MAusIMM, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology from the University of Natal, a Masters degree in engineering from the University of Witswaterrand and a Dip Data diploma from UNISA. He joined Anglo American Corporation in 1981 as a geologist at Vaal Reefs Mine and AngloGold in 1999 as manager evaluation in the mineral resource department, the position he currently holds.
AngloGold has a Remuneration Policy which seeks to:
Compensation of directors
Under the Listings Requirements of the JSE Securities Exchange South Africa (JSE), AngloGold discloses the compensation paid to each of the members of the board of directors.
Annual bonus: The annual bonus is determined by the achievement of a set of company and individual performance targets. The company targets include earnings per share, cost control and global production. The weighting of the respective contribution of company and individual targets is 70 percent for company and 30 percent for individuals. The remuneration committee has the right to adjust the overall level of bonus of executive directors, particularly in the light of the company's annual safety performance and of the specific contribution of individual executive directors to the company's success.
Share Incentive Scheme: The scheme provides for an annual grant of share options based on the achievement of pre- determined performance targets similar to those used for the annual bonus. Options granted are subject to the achievement of a performance condition set by the remuneration committee and are subject to a maximum equivalent to annual salary for any executive director. Each tranche of options can only be exercised if earnings per share increase by 5 percent plus US inflation per year, over a three-year period. Options must be exercised within 10 years from date of grant.
Until December 31, 2001, the scheme allowed for options to be granted in three tranches over a five-year period, subject to a maximum of 200,000 in respect of the chief executive officer and 100,000 for other executive directors. The number of options held by executive directors is reflected on page 163.
See "Item 6E.: Share ownership" for more information on the Share Incentive Scheme.
Pensions: All executive directors are members of the AngloGold Pension Fund, a defined benefit fund which guarantees a pension on retirement equivalent to 2 percent of final basic salary per year of service. Death and disability cover is reflective of best practice among comparable employers in South Africa.
Other benefits: Executive directors are members of the AngloGold Medical Scheme, which covers the director and his immediate family.
Executive directors' service contracts: Service contracts of executive directors are reviewed annually. The contractual notice period in respect of Mr R M Godsell, as chief executive officer, is 12 months, and for the other three executive directors, six months. The contracts also deal with compensation if employment is terminated or in the event of a material change in role, responsibilities or remuneration occurs. Compensation in these circumstances is pegged at twice the notice period.
The members are:
R P Edey - chairman
Remuneration committee
The members are:
R P Edey - chairman
The remuneration committee, which comprises exclusively non-executive directors, is primarily responsible for approving the remuneration policies of the company. Mr C B Brayshaw was appointed as a member of the committee on July 30, 2003. The committee meets as and when required, with a minimum of one meeting per annum. Three meetings of the committee were held during 2003.
Safety, health and sustainable development committee
Members are:
W A Nairn - chairman
The committee's objective is to ensure that AngloGold undertakes and conducts its operations in a responsible manner and achieves a sustainable balance between economic and social development, with due regard to the safety and health of its employees, and the impact of its operations on the environmentThe committee conducts on-site inspections in regard to matters of serious concern. The committee, which comprises two non-executive directors and the chief executive officer, met on four occasions during 2003.
Company secretarial function
The company secretarial function consists of both a managing secretary and a company secretary. The managing secretary bears overall responsibility for the company secretarial function. Appointment and removal of the managing secretary and company secretary are matters for the board.
The managing secretary and company secretary advise the directors, both collectively and individually, on compliance with procedural and regulatory aspects of a legal nature, ensuring awareness of applicable laws and regulations, guiding the board on all corporate governance and ethical issues, as well as advising the directors on their rights, duties and powers. The in- house legal department reports to the managing secretary and assists the company secretarial function should any questions or issues arise. In addition the company secretarial function has access to a legal counsel who reports to the managing secretary on all compliance and corporate governance issues affecting the company. The company secretarial function also plays a crucial role in the induction of new directors.
Together with the investor relations department, the company secretarial function also provides a direct communications link with investors, and liaises with the company's share registrars on all issues affecting shareholders. The company secretarial function, in consultation with other departments, also provides mandatory information required by various regulatory bodies and stock exchanges on which the company is listed.
The managing secretary and company secretary are also responsible for compliance with all the statutory requirements in regard to the administration of the Share Incentive Scheme. Directors and officers report dealing in ordinary shares of the company to the company secretarial function who in turn report the dealings to the board. The managing secretary and company secretary are also required to ensure that minutes of all shareholders', board and board committees' meetings are properly recorded in accordance with the South African Companies Act of 1973.
For details of employees, including outside contractors, by geographical region, see "Item 4B.: Business overview - Products, operations and geographic locations".
Worker participation
The company has in place a variety of strategies and structures that are designed to promote employee participation. These strategies and structures are further developed and adapted from time to time to meet variations in operational requirements and to accommodate changing circumstances. Management and employee representatives meet in formal and informal forums at company and operational levels to share information and to address matters of mutual interest.
The South African gold mining industry continues to remain labor intensive. However, ongoing technology innovation is making the workplaces safer and more productive and hence continues to be a strategic drive.
A significant number of South Africa's workers belong to either registered or unregistered trade unions, and most of the major industries are unionized. Approximately 86 percent of AngloGold's workforce at its South African operations are members of South Africa's registered trade unions. Trade unions have, with the adoption of the amendments to legislation, a significant influence in South Africa as vehicles for social and political reform and in the collective bargaining process. There have been no major disruptions at AngloGold since inception. Significant labor disruptions could have a material adverse effect on AngloGold's results and financial condition.
The implementation of the Labor Relations Act's provisions have not had, and management believes will continue not to have, a material adverse effect on AngloGold's cost of labor and consequently on its results and financial condition, although there can be no assurance of this. See "Item 3D.: Risk factors - Labor disruptions could have an adverse effect on operating results and financial condition".
With the highly regulated South African market, the costs of employment are substantial and labor costs at AngloGold's South African operations constituted approximately half of South African production costs in 2003. Wage agreements differ across bargaining units. In South Africa, negotiated pay increases were finalized at 10 and 9.5 percent for the majority of South African employees belonging to categories 3 to 8 and Miners and Artisans bargaining units respectively. The category 3 to 8 agreement was entered into between the Chamber of Mines (COM) and the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) in July 2003. The Miners and Artisans agreement was also subsequently signed between NUM, United Association of South Africa (UASA), South African Equity Workers Union (SAEWA), Solidarity unions and COM as at July 2003. Increases for 2004 will be equivalent to average CPIX plus one, but not less than 7 percent for both bargaining units. Both these agreements will expire at the end of June 2005. In addition, on January 22, 2003, AngloGold signed a two-year salary agreement for the officials bargaining unit with UASA and the NUM which provides for an annual pay increase of 9 percent to all employees under this agreement with a merit component ranging from 0.5 - 2 percent for 2003. In regard to 2004 an annual pay increase of 8 percent for all employees under this agreement was agreed to, with a merit increase of 0.75 percent as at January 2004 and 0.25 percent effective in July 2004. The officials agreement covers 3,806 employees at AngloGold's South African operations.
Due to the high cost of labor, productivity and efficiency improvements are paramount to AngloGold's success. There are multiple efforts to improve productivity through various training and development initiatives, which have importantly included the raising of literacy and numeracy levels. AngloGold's training facilities are accredited with the Mining Qualifications Authority as well as the British Standards Institute ISO 9002 accreditation. Importantly as well, AngloGold continues to pilot a project aimed at achieving best work practices in deep-level mining.
East and West African operations
In Tanzania Geita Mine recently entered into a code of conduct and excess agreement with the Tanzanian Mines and Construction Workers Union. The union has commenced with the recruitment of members on the mine. As a result of non- union presence, various worker participation and consultative forums exist.
In Mali labor relations is governed by an Industry Collective Agreement that sets minimum employee conditions. Decentralized bargaining structures exist whereby individual mines negotiate conditions with their union committees. The union movement is relatively young in Mali, which leads to a great deal of time being spent on capacity building at a national and operational level.
The Industrial Relations climate at all of the operations has been stable and sound relationships exist with organized labor.
Close relationships are being maintained with local and national government in all the African countries of operation.
Under the Listings Requirements of the JSE, AngloGold is not required to disclose, and it does not otherwise disclose or ascertain, share ownership of individual executive officers in the share capital of AngloGold. However, to the best of its knowledge, AngloGold believes that AngloGold ordinary shares held by executive officers, in aggregate, do not exceed 1 percent of the company's issued ordinary share capital. See "Item 6E.: Share ownership - Share ownership of directors" for details of ordinary shares held by executive directors.
AngloGold Share Incentive Scheme
AngloGold operates a share incentive scheme for the purpose of providing an incentive to executive directors, executive officers and managers to identify themselves more closely with the fortunes of the group and its continued growth, and also to promote the retention of such employees by giving them an opportunity to acquire ordinary shares in the company.
Under the terms of the scheme, which was approved by the shareholders at general meeting, up to 2.75% of AngloGold's ordinary shares in issue may be allocated to eligible scheme participants. As of December 31, 2003 and 2002, this amounted to 6,136,249 ordinary shares and 6,122,106 ordinary shares, respectively.
The maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares which may be acquired by any one participant in the scheme is 300,000.
Non-executive directors are not eligible for participation in the scheme.
All options which have not been exercised within ten years from the date on which they were granted automatically lapse, unless otherwise stated.
The scheme provides for the granting of options, based on two separate criteria:
Time related options were approved by shareholders at the general meeting held on June 4, 1998, and amended by shareholders at the annual general meeting held on April 30, 2002. No further options will be granted under this plan which will terminate on February 1, 2012, being the date on which the last options may be exercised or will expire.
Each time related option entitles the holder to acquire one ordinary share at a price equal to the closing price of ordinary shares on the JSE on the day before granting of the option.
Time related options granted, may be exercised as follows:
Percentage
Each performance related option entitles the holder to acquire one ordinary share at a price equal to the closing price of ordinary shares on the JSE on the day before granting of the option.
Performance related options may be exercised in full, three years after date of grant, provided that the conditions on which the options were granted, namely the performance of the company as determined by the directors at date of grant, are met.
The table below shows the movement in respect of options held by executive directors on an individual basis, and by executive officers and managers, each as a group, during 2003. Non-executive directors are not eligible to participate in the scheme and therefore own no options:
The company's wholly-owned subsidiary, AngloGold Australia Limited (originally Acacia Resources Limited) operated the Acacia Employee Option Plan for certain of its employees. In terms of this plan, on exercising of options, a ratio of 7 AngloGold ordinary shares for every 100 Acacia options held was applicable. The issue price of the AngloGold ordinary shares was calculated using the A$/R exchange rate as of the date of allotment. At December 31, 2003, all options granted in terms of the Acacia Employee Option Plan had been exercised or lapsed and the plan has now been terminated.
The movement in respect of options during the period January 1, 2003 to December 31, 2003 was as follows:
7B.
The group had the following transactions with related parties during the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001:
The ordinary shares to be issued pursuant to the Business Combination have not been sold and are not being made available to the public in conjunction with the application for admission to the Official List of the UKLA and admission to trading on the LSE's market for listed securities.
Guaranteed Convertible Bonds
On February 27, 2004, AngloGold Holdings plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of AngloGold, issued $1,000,000,000 2.375 per cent guaranteed Convertible Bonds due 2009, convertible into AngloGold ADSs and guaranteed by AngloGold.
Subject to certain restrictions, holders of Convertible Bonds are entitled to convert each Convertible Bond into an AngloGold ADSs at the then applicable conversion price at any time from April 8, 2004 to February 20, 2009, or, if the Convertible Bonds are called for redemption earlier than February 27, 2009, the seventh business day prior to the date of early redemption.
If the bonds have not been converted by February 20, 2009, they will be redeemed at par on February 27, 2009. AngloGold Holdings plc has the option of calling an early redemption of all the bonds 3 years after their issuance, if the price of the ADSs exceeds 130 percent of the conversion price for more than 20 days during any period of 30 consecutive trading days.
The initial conversion price for the Convertible Bonds is $65.00 per AngloGold ADS. The conversion premium to the reference volume weighted average price of the ADSs on the New York Stock Exchange of $40.625 on February 19, 2004, when the issue of the Convertible Bonds was announced, was 60 per cent. If all holders of Convertible Bonds exercise their option to convert their Convertible Bonds into ADSs and assuming no adjustments are made to the initial conversion price, up to 15,384,615 new ADSs will be issued. The conversion ratio is subject to adjustment in case of various corporate events including share splits and capital distributions.
10B.
AngloGold is incorporated under the laws of the Republic of South Africa (registration number 1944/017354/06). AngloGold's memorandum of association provides that the company's main business is to carry on gold exploration, the mining and production of gold, the manufacturing, marketing and selling of gold products and the development of markets for gold. AngloGold's main object is to engage in all aspects of the business of gold exploration, the mining and production of gold, the manufacturing, marketing and selling of gold products and the development of markets for gold.
Set out below is a summary of the provisions of the Articles of Association of AngloGold, which are available for inspection as set out in "Item 10.H.: Documents On Display".
Directors
The management and control of any business of AngloGold shall be vested in the directors who, in addition to their powers under the Articles, may exercise all powers and do all such acts and things as may be exercised or done by AngloGold.
Board Meetings
The directors may regulate board meetings and determine the quorum necessary for the transaction of business as they think fit. Unless otherwise determined by the directors, two directors form a quorum. Issues arising at meetings are decided by majority vote with the chairman having a second or casting vote where there are more than two directors present at the meeting.
Borrowing Powers
AngloGold may create and issue secured or unsecured debentures and the directors may borrow or secure the payment of such sums as they think fit and may secure the repayment of any indebtedness by bond, mortgage or charge provided that no special privileges as to allotment of shares, attending and voting at meetings, appointment of directors or otherwise shall be given to the holders of AngloGold's debentures without the sanction of AngloGold in a general meeting.
Directors' Remuneration
The directors are entitled to such remuneration as AngloGold may determine by ordinary resolution in a general meeting. If a director performs services that, in the opinion of the board of directors, are outside the scope of the ordinary duties of a director, he may be paid such extra remuneration as the directors determine. For more information on the remuneration of directors, see "Item 6B: Compensation."
Retirement and Removal of Directors
A director must retire from office if he becomes insolvent or subject to insolvency procedures, is found to be of unsound mind, is requested to resign by at least three-quarters of the directors, is removed by a resolution of AngloGold or is absent from board meetings without representation for six consecutive months. A director can resign with one month's written notice unless he obtains the permission of the directors to shorten his notice period. At every annual general meeting at least one-third of the longest serving directors must retire from office but are eligible for re- election. Where more than one director has served for an equal length of time, unless they agree between themselves, the director to resign will be determined by lot.
Interests of directors/Restriction on voting/Indemnity of officers
A director shall not vote nor be counted in the quorum and if he shall do so his vote shall not be counted on any resolution for his own appointment to any other office or position under AngloGold or in respect of any contract or arrangement in which he is interested, but this prohibition shall not apply to
(i)
The directors may exercise the voting powers conferred by the shares in any other company held or owned by AngloGold in such manner and in all respects as they think fit, including the exercise thereof in favor of any resolution appointing themselves or any of them to be directors or officers of such other company or voting or providing for the payment of remuneration to the directors or officers of such other company.
Any unissued ordinary shares can be disposed of or dealt with in such manner as AngloGold may direct in a general meeting. AngloGold may resolve that all or any of such ordinary shares are at the disposal of the directors who may allot, grant options over or otherwise deal with or dispose of the ordinary shares to such persons at such times and on such terms and conditions and for such consideration as they may think proper. No ordinary shares may be issued at a discount except in accordance with section 81 of the South African Companies Act. Section 81 of the Companies Act states that a company can issue at a discount to par value shares of a class already in issue, if such issue is authorized by a special resolution, that company has been trading for at least one year, the issue is sanctioned by the court and occurs within one month of the sanction and the prospectus contains details of the discount.
Any ordinary shares may be issued with such rights or restrictions as AngloGold in a general meeting may from time to time determine. In addition, AngloGold may resolve to grant to the directors the power to issue ordinary shares on such terms and conditions and with such rights attached as the directors may determine
The directors may from time to time make such regulations as they may think fit in regard to the payment of dividends to members having registered addresses outside South Africa, and such regulations may provide for the payment of such dividends in any foreign currency and the rate of exchange at which such payment shall be made and such other matters as the directors may think fit.
All of the issued ordinary shares, A redeemable preference shares and B redeemable preference shares are fully paid and are not subject to further calls or assessment by AngloGold.
There are no limitations on the right of non-South African shareholders to hold or exercise voting rights attaching to any of the ordinary shares.
The A redeemable preference shares have voting rights that are very similar to those of ordinary shares. The B redeemable preference shares have limited voting rights, except in the event that a dividend on this class of share has not been paid and remains unpaid for six months, or in connection with issues directly affecting these preference shares or AngloGold as a whole, such as disposal of substantially all of the company's assets, winding up AngloGold or reducing the company's share capital.
The articles of association do not provide for cumulative voting in respect of any of the classes of AngloGold's shares.
The articles of association specify that one-third of the directors or, if their number is not a multiple of three, then the number nearest to, but not less than, one-third, must retire from office at each annual general meeting. Any director who has served as a director for three years since his last election must retire at the next annual general meeting even if, as a result, more than one-third of the directors retire. Retiring directors are eligible for re-election.
The articles of association specify that if new classes of ordinary or preference shares are issued, the rights relating to any class of shares may be modified or abrogated either with the consent in writing of the holders of at least three-fourths of the issued shares of that class, or with the sanction of a resolution passed as if it were a special resolution of the company at a separate general meeting of the holders of the shares of that class.
Subject to any statutory restrictions on transfer any member may transfer all or part of his certificated securities, to the extent it is not prevented by section 91A of the Companies Act. Every transfer must be in writing in the usual common form or in such other form as the directors may approve and must be left at the transfer office where the register of transfers is kept or at such other place as the directors prescribe and must be accompanied by the share certificate and such other evidence as the directors or registrar may require to prove title and capacity of the intending transferor or transferee.
The directors may refuse to register any transfer of certificated securities unless the instrument of transfer, duly stamped, is lodged with AngloGold accompanied by the share certificate, the transfer is in respect of only one class of securities or the transfer is permitted within any of AngloGold's incentive schemes.
Conversion of Ordinary Shares into Stock
AngloGold may by special resolution convert any paid-up shares into stock and may reconvert any stock into paid-up shares of any denomination. The holders of stock may transfer their respective interests but the directors may fix the minimum amount of stock transferable. The holders of stock have the same rights, privileges and advantages as regards participation in profits and voting at general meetings of AngloGold as if they held the shares from which the stock arose. All of the provisions of the Articles apply equally to stock as to shares.
Increase and Reduction of Capital
AngloGold can by special resolution resolve to increase its capital by any sum divided into shares of any amount.
Subject to the requirements of the Companies Act and the rules and requirements of the stock exchange on which the securities are listed, AngloGold may by ordinary resolution reduce, dispose of, distribute or otherwise deal with in any manner its share capital, share premium, stated capital, reserves and capital redemption reserve fund.
By special resolution and in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, AngloGold can resolve to consolidate and divide all or any part of its share capital into shares of larger amounts or consolidate and reduce the number of any issued no par value shares; increase the number of any issued no par value shares without increasing its stated capital; cancel any shares which have not been subscribed for; sub-divide its shares or any of them into shares of smaller amounts than fixed by the memorandum of association; vary, modify or amend any rights attached to any shares whether issued or not, including the conversion of any shares into preference shares; and convert any of its shares whether issued or not into shares of another class.
Share Premium Account and Capital Redemption Reserve Fund
AngloGold may by ordinary resolution authorize the directors to distribute or deal with, in any way recommended by the directors, all or any part of the amount outstanding to the credit of any share premium account or capital redemption reserve fund of AngloGold.
Rights upon liquidation
In the event of a winding up of the company, the B redeemable preference shares confer the right, in priority to any payment in respect of the ordinary shares or the A preference shares in the capital of AngloGold, to receive only so much of the net proceeds from the disposal of the assets relating to the Moab Lease Area as is available for distribution, but not exceeding a return for each B redeemable preference share of the capital paid up on that share and any share premium paid on the issue of the B redeemable preference shares outstanding at that time. The B redeemable preference shares do not confer the right to participation in the surplus funds of AngloGold arising in any other manner.
Description of the ADSs
Each ADS represents one ordinary share. It is possible to hold ADSs either directly or indirectly through a broker or other financial institution
ADSs may be held either directly or indirectly through a broker or other financial institution. If ADSs are held indirectly, such holders must rely on the procedures of their broker or other financial institution to assert the rights of ADS holders described in this sectionand should consult with their broker or financial institution in this regard.
Because The Bank of New York actually holds AngloGold ordinary shares, holders of ADSs may, in certain circumstances, not be treated by AngloGold as shareholders of AngloGold. The rights of ADS holders and the rights of and obligations of The Bank of New York as depositary are set out in the Deposit Agreements among The Bank of New York, the registered holders and beneficial owners of ADSs, and AngloGold. The Deposit Agreements and the ADSs are generally governed by the laws of the State of New York. As this section is a summary, it may not contain all the information and may be important to you. For more complete information, you should read the entire text of the Deposit Agreements and the ADS, the forms of which are exhibits to AngloGold's registration statements on Form F-6 (Registration Statement No. 333-14066) filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Directions on how to obtain copies of AngloGold's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission are provided under "Item 10.H.: Documents On Display".
Dividends and Other Distributions
The Bank of New York has agreed to pay to holders of ADSs the cash dividends or other distributions it or a custodian receives on AngloGold ordinary shares or other deposited securities after deducting any fees and expenses and any applicable withholding taxes. Holders of ADSs will receive these distributions in proportion to the number of AngloGold's ordinary shares that their ADSs represent.
Cash
The Bank of New York will convert any cash dividend or other cash distribution AngloGold pays on AngloGold's ordinary shares into US dollars (unless AngloGold pays it in US dollars), if it can do so on a reasonable basis and can transfer the US dollars to the United States. Currently, AngloGold pays dividends on ordinary shares in South African rand. AngloGold may declare dividends and distributions on ordinary shares in any currency that the board of directors or shareholders at a general meeting approve.
In accordance with the Deposit Agreements, The Bank of New York, via its appointed South African bank, will convert the South African rand it receives from AngloGold to US dollars and distribute dividends in US dollars to registered holders of ADSs. If that is no longer possible or if any approval from any government is needed and cannot be obtained, the The Bank of New York may distribute non-US currency only to those ADS holders to whom it is possible to make this type of distribution. The Bank of New York may hold the non-US currency it cannot convert for the account of holders of ADSs who have not been paid, unless a holder of ADSs requests in writing to receive the non-US currency distribution. It will not invest the non-US currency, and it will not be liable for the interest.
Ordinary shares
The Bank of New York may distribute to holders of ADSs additional ADSs representing ordinary shares that AngloGold distributes as a dividend or free distribution, if AngloGold provides it promptly with satisfactory evidence that it is legal to do so. If The Bank of New York does not distribute additional ADSs, the outstanding ADSs will also represent the newly distributed AngloGold ordinary shares. The Bank of New York will only distribute whole ADSs. It will sell AngloGold ordinary shares that would require it to deliver a fraction of an ADS and distribute the net proceeds in the same way as it distributes cash.
Rights to subscribe for additional ordinary shares
If AngloGold offers holders of its ordinary shares any rights to subscribe for additional AngloGold ordinary shares or any other rights, The Bank of New York, after consultation with AngloGold, may make these rights available to holders of ADSs or sell the rights and distribute the proceeds in the same way as it distributes cash. If The Bank of New York cannot do either of these things for any reason, it may allow these rights to lapse. In that case, holders of ADSs will receive no value for them.
If The Bank of New York makes these types of subscription rights available to holders of ADSs upon instruction from holders of ADSs, it will exercise the rights and purchase AngloGold's ordinary shares on their behalf. The Bank of New York will then deposit the AngloGold ordinary shares and deliver ADSs to the holders of ADSs. It will only exercise these rights if holders of ADSs pay it the exercise price and any other charges the rights require them to pay.
US securities laws may restrict the sale, deposit, cancellation and transfer of the ADSs issued after exercise of rights. For example, holders of ADSs may not be able to trade the ADSs freely in the United States. In this case, The Bank of New York may deliver ADSs which are "restricted securities" within the meaning of Rule 144 (including Restricted ADSs, as defined herein) which will have the same provisions as the ADSs described here, except for the changes needed to put the restrictions in place.
Other distributions
The Bank of New York will send to holders of ADSs any other distributions that AngloGold makes on deposited securities by any means it thinks is legal, fair and practical. If it cannot make the distribution in that way, The Bank of New York may decide to sell what AngloGold distributes, and then distribute the net proceeds in the same way as it distributes cash, or it may decide to hold what AngloGold distributes, in which case the outstanding ADSs will also represent the newly distributed property.
The Bank of New York is not responsible if it decides that it is unlawful or impractical to make a distribution available to any ADS holders. AngloGold has no obligation to register ADSs, AngloGold ordinary shares, rights or other securities under the US Securities Act of 1933. AngloGold also has no obligation to take any other action to permit the distribution of ADSs, AngloGold ordinary shares, rights or anything else to ADS holders. This means that the holders of ADSs may not receive the distribution AngloGold makes on its ordinary shares or any value for them if it is illegal or impractical for AngloGold to make them available to the holders of ADSs.
Deposit, Withdrawal and Cancellation
The Bank of New York will deliver ADSs, if a holder of AngloGold's ordinary shares or their broker deposits AngloGold's ordinary shares or evidence of rights to receive ordinary shares with the custodian. Upon payment of its fees and expenses and of any taxes or charges, such as stamp taxes or stock transfer taxes or fees, The Bank of New York will register the appropriate number of ADSs in the names such holder of AngloGold ordinary shares requests and will deliver the ADSs at its Corporate Trust office to the persons such holders request.
Any deposit of ordinary shares into the Restricted ADS Facility, including a deposit upon conversion of the Convertible Bonds, must be accompanied by a written certificate and agreement by or on behalf of the person who will be the beneficial owner of the Restricted ADSs to be issued upon deposit of such ordinary shares to the effect that each such beneficial owner: (i) understands that the ordinary shares and the Restricted ADSs have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act, (ii) is not an affiliate of AngloGold or a person acting on behalf of such an affiliate, (iii) is a QIB and will be the beneficial owner of such Restricted ADSs upon the issuance thereof and (iv) agrees not to offer, sell, pledge or otherwise transfer such ordinary shares, such Restricted ADSs or the Restricted ADRs evidencing such Restricted ADSs except: (a)(1) to a person who the beneficial owner reasonably believes is a QIB in a transaction meeting the requirements of Rule 144A, (2) in an offshore transaction meeting the requirements of Regulation S, (3) pursuant to the exemption from registration under the Securities Act provided by Rule 144 thereunder (if available) or (4) pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act and (b) in accordance with all applicable securities laws of the United States.
Holders of Restricted ADSs are subject to further requirements as to certification of their status upon surrender of Restricted ADSs for the purpose of withdrawing the underlying ordinary shares. Those holders must deliver a written certificate and agreement by or on behalf of the person surrendering such Restricted ADSs who, after withdrawal, will be the beneficial owner of the ordinary shares to be withdrawn, acknowledging that the ordinary shares underlying the Restricted ADSs have not been registered under the Securities Act, certifying as to whether or not those ordinary shares will remain restricted upon withdrawal and, in the case of ordinary shares that will remain restricted, agreeing: (a) not to offer, sell, pledge or otherwise transfer such ordinary shares except in a transaction that complies with the applicable transfer restrictions and (b) not to deposit or cause to be deposited such ordinary shares into any unrestricted depositary receipt facility established or maintained by a depositary bank (including another facility maintained by The Bank of New York) unless the ordinary shares are no longer deemed to be restricted securities within the meaning of Rule 144(a)(3) under the Securities Act.
Voting Rights
Holders of ADSs may instruct The Bank of New York to vote the ordinary shares underlying their ADSs, but only if AngloGold asks, in writing, The Bank of New York to request their instruction. Otherwise, holders of ADSs will not be able to exercise their right to vote unless they withdraw the AngloGold ordinary shares. However, the holders of ADSs may not know about the meeting enough in advance to withdraw the ordinary shares.
If AngloGold asks for the instructions of holders of ADSs, The Bank of New York will notify them of the upcoming vote and arrange to deliver AngloGold voting materials to them. The materials will (1) describe the matters to be voted on and (2) explain how holders of ADSs, on or before a certain date, may instruct The Bank of New York to vote the ordinary shares or other deposited securities underlying their ADSs as they direct. For instructions to be valid, The Bank of New York must receive them on or before the date specified. The Bank of New York will try, as far as practical, to vote or to have its agents vote the ordinary shares or other deposited securities as holders of ADSs instruct, but this is subject to South African law, the provisions of AngloGold's Memorandum and Articles of Association and of the deposited securities and any applicable rule of the JSE. The Bank of New York will only vote or attempt to vote as such holders of ADSs instruct. However, if and to the extent that The Bank of New York does not receive their voting instructions, it will give a proxy to vote the relevant ordinary shares to a person designated by AngloGold, unless AngloGold does not wish the proxy to be given, or substantial opposition exists, or the issue at hand materially and adversely affects the rights of holders of ordinary shares.
AngloGold cannot assure the holders of ADSs that they will receive the voting materials in time for them to instruct The Bank of New York to vote their ordinary shares. In addition, The Bank of New York and its agents are not responsible for failing to carry out voting instructions or for the manner of carrying out voting instructions. This means that holders of ADSs may not be able to exercise their right to vote and there may be nothing they can do if their ordinary shares are not voted as they requested.
Each cancellation of an ADS, including if the Deposit Agreement terminates
Cable, telex and facsimile transmission expenses
Holders of ADSs will be responsible for any taxes or other governmental charges payable on their ADSs or on the deposited securities underlying their ADSs. The Bank of New York may refuse to transfer their ADSs or allow them to withdraw the deposited securities underlying their ADSs until such taxes or other charges are paid. It may apply payments owed to holders of ADSs or sell deposited securities underlying their ADSs to pay any taxes they owe, and they will remain liable for any deficiency. If it sells deposited securities, it will, if appropriate, reduce the number of ADSs to reflect the sale and pay to holders of ADSs any proceeds, or send to them any property, remaining after it has paid the taxes.
Reclassifies, splits up or consolidates any of the
deposited securities;
Distributes securities on the ordinary shares that are
not distributed to holders of ADSs; or
Recapitalizes, reorganizes, merges, liquidates, sells
all or substantially all of AngloGold's assets, or takes
any similar action.
The Bank of New York may, and will if AngloGold asks it to, distribute some or all of the cash, AngloGold ordinary shares or other securities it receives. It may also issue new ADSs or ask holders of ADSs to surrender their outstanding ADSs in exchange for new ADSs identifying the new deposited securities.
AngloGold may agree with The Bank of New York to amend the Deposit Agreement and the ADSs without the consent of holders for any reason. If the amendment adds or increases fees or charges (except for taxes and other governmental charges or registration fees, cable, telex or facsimile transmission costs, delivery costs or other such expenses) or if the amendment prejudices an important right of ADS holders, it will only become effective 30 days after The Bank of New York notifies holders of ADSs of the amendment. At the time an amendment becomes effective, holders of ADSs are considered, by continuing to hold their ADSs, to agree to the amendment and to be bound by the ADSs and the agreement as amended.
The Bank of New York may terminate the Deposit Agreements by mailing notice of termination to ADS holders at least 30 days prior to the date fixed in the notice if AngloGold asks it to do so. The Bank of New York may also terminate the Deposit Agreement if The Bank of New York has told AngloGold that it would like to resign and AngloGold has not appointed a new depositary bank within 90 days. In both cases, The Bank of New York must notify holders of AngloGold ADSs at least 30 days before termination.
After termination, The Bank of New York and its agents will be required to do only the following under the Deposit Agreement: collect distributions on the deposited securities, sell rights, and, upon surrender of ADSs, deliver AngloGold ordinary shares and other deposited securities. One year after the date of termination or later, The Bank of New York may sell any remaining deposited securities by public or private sale and will hold the proceeds of the sale, as well as any other cash it is holding under the Deposit Agreement, for the pro rata benefit of the ADS holders who have not surrendered their ADSs. It will not invest the money and will have no liability for interest. The Bank of New York's only obligations will be to account for the proceeds of the sale and other cash. After termination, AngloGold's only obligations will be with respect to indemnification of, and payment of certain amounts to, The Bank of New York.
Limitations on Obligations and Liability to ADS Holders
The Deposit Agreements expressly limit AngloGold's obligations and the obligations of The Bank of New York, and they limit AngloGold's liability and the liability of The Bank of New York. AngloGold and The Bank of New York:
A foreign investor may invest freely in shares in a South African company. Any foreign investor may also sell shares in a South African company and transfer the proceeds out of South Africa without restriction. Acquisitions of shares or assets of South African companies by non-South African purchasers are not generally subject to review by the SARB when the consideration is in cash, but may require SARB review in certain circumstances, including when the consideration is equity in a non-South African company or when the acquisition is financed by a loan from a South African lender.
Dividends
Dividends declared to foreign stockholders are not subject to the approval by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). Dividends are freely transferable to foreign stockholders from both trading and non-trading profits earned in South Africa by publicly listed companies.
Interest
Interest on foreign loans is freely remittable abroad, provided the loans received prior SARB approval.
Voting rights
There are no limitations imposed by South African law or by the memorandum and articles of association of AngloGold on the rights of non-South African shareholders to vote the ordinary shares.
Overseas financing and investments
AngloGold and its South African subsidiaries require SARB approval to raise debt from and repay debt to non-residents of the Common Monetary Area, mainly in respect of the interest rate and terms of repayment applicable to the loan.
Debt raised outside the Common Monetary Area by AngloGold's non-South African subsidiaries is not restricted under South African exchange control regulations and can be used for overseas investment, subject to any conditions imposed by the SARB in connection with establishing such a subsidiary. AngloGold and its South African subsidiaries would, however, require SARB approval in order to provide guarantees for the obligations of any of its subsidiaries with regard to funds obtained from non-residents of the Common Monetary Area.
Debt raised outside the Common Monetary Area by AngloGold's non-South African subsidiaries must be repaid or serviced by AngloGold's foreign subsidiaries.
A listing by a South African company on any stock exchange other than the JSE Securities Exchange in connection with raising capital requires permission from the SARB.
Under current exchange control regulations, offshore investments by AngloGold and its South African subsidiaries require the approval of the SARB. On application to the SARB, use of South African funds for such investments may be allowed for up to R2 billion for an investment within the Africa continent and up to R1 billion for investments elsewhere. In addition, SARB permission may also be requested to utilize total cash holdings to finance up to 10 percent of any excess cost of a new investment if the total cost of the investment exceeds the above fund export limits. Any amount in excess of the above limits must be financed overseas.
Daily
The group periodically enters into forward exchange and currency option contracts to hedge certain recorded transactions, firm commitments and other anticipated transactions denominated in foreign currencies. The objective of the group's foreign currency hedging activities is to protect the group from the risk that the eventual cash flows resulting from transactions denominated in US dollars will be adversely affected by changes in exchange rates.
The following table indicates the group's currency hedge position at December 31, 2003
Credit risk
Realization of all these contracts is dependent upon the counterparties performing in accordance with the terms of the contracts. AngloGold generally does not obtain collateral or other security to support financial instruments subject to credit risk, but monitors the credit standing of counterparties. AngloGold spreads its business over a number of predominantly international, credit worthy counterparties and believes that no concentration of credit risk exists. Limits for each counterpart are based on the assessed credit quality of each counterpart. The Treasury Committee makes recommendations for board approval of all counterparts and the limits to be applied against each counterpart.
AngloGold employs hedging as an element of its risk management strategy. While AngloGold's hedge policy has remained unchanged, the absolute level of gold hedges has decreased considerably over the last two years. This is as a result of:
As at December 31,
Hedge performance
The following table provides a summary of the average received gold price for AngloGold and the average spot gold price over the last five years. The table provides an indication of past hedge performance.
The Board of Directors has determined that Mr Colin Brayshaw is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in Item 16A. of Form 20-F. Mr Brayshaw and each of the other members of the Audit and Corporate Governance Committee (being Mr F B Arisman, Mrs E le R Bradley and Mr R P Edey) is an "independent director" as defined in the JSE Securities Exchange Listings Requirements and NYSE rules.
16B. Code of ethics
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in South Africa and in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of AngloGold Limited at December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the consolidated results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
As discussed in note 3.12 to the consolidated financial statements, in 2001 the company changed its method of accounting for derivative financial instruments. As discussed in note 4 to the consolidated financial statements, in 2002 the company changed its method of accounting for amortization of goodwill in accordance with SFAS142 and in 2003 the company changed its method of accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations (AROs) in accordance with SFAS143.
Ernst & Young
Registered Accountants and Auditors
Chartered Accountants (S.A.)
Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa
February 13, 2004
2002 acquisitions
AngloGold made one acquisition during the year.
Certain derivative instruments are designated as hedges of foreign currency denominated borrowings and investments in foreign entities. This designation is reviewed at least quarterly, or as borrowing and investment levels change. The hedge amounts (to the extent effective) are recorded as an offset to the translation gains/losses that are being hedged.
In December 2003, the FASB revised FIN 46 ("the Revised Interpretation"). In the Revised Interpretation the FASB agreed to a revised model for adoption of the Interpretation's provisions. Effective dates now differ based on whether variable interests (1) are held by public companies and the entities under evaluation were previously evaluated using the provisions of EITF Topic No. D-14, "Transactions involving Special- Purpose Entities", or EITF Issue No. 90-15, "Impact of Nonsubstantive Lessors, Residual Value Guarantees, and Other Provisions in Leasing Transactions" (such interests were generally held in entities previously commonly referred to as SPEs), (2) are held by public companies that are filers under Regulation S-B and (3) are held by non- public companies.
Based on the FASB's decisions, all public companies must apply the provisions of Interpretation or the Revised Interpretation to variable interests in SPEs (created before February 1, 2003) no later than the end of periods ending after December 15, 2003 (December 31, 2003 for calendar year end companies). Public companies may choose to apply the provisions of the Interpretation or the Revised Interpretation to interests held in SPEs created prior to February 1, 2003 in financial statements for periods ending after December 15, 2003 (that is, December 31, 2003 financial statements). However, if a Company chooses to report using the Interpretation's provisions, it must apply the Revised Interpretation's provisions to those variable interests in financial statements for periods ending after March 15, 2004.
Public companies that have applied the Interpretation's provisions to variable interests in entities newly created subsequent to January 31, 2003, or have early adopted the Interpretation's provisions for some or all variable interests in entities created prior to February 1, 2003 may continue to apply the Interpretation's provisions in financial statements for periods ending after December 15, 2003, or may choose to early adopt the Revised Interpretation's provisions. AngloGold does not have any SPE's as defined in the Interpretation or the Revised Interpretation that were created prior to February 1, 2003. AngloGold has not created any variable interest entities between January 31, 2003 and December 31, 2003. AngloGold does not expect to identify any variable interest entities that were created prior to February 1, 2003, for which the adoption date is the first interim or annual reporting period after March 15, 2004.
In April 2003, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 149, "Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" ("SFAS149"). SFAS149 amends and clarifies financial accounting and reporting for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in other contracts and for hedging activities. The statement requires that contracts with comparable characteristics be accounted for similarly to achieve more consistent reporting of contracts as either derivative or hybrid instruments. The company adopted SFAS149 for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003, and hedging relationships designated after June 30, 2003.
In May 2003, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 150, "Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity" ("SFAS150").
SFAS150 provides guidance regarding classification of freestanding financial instruments as liabilities (or assets in some circumstances). SFAS150 is generally effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003, otherwise at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003 and is to be applied prospectively. Nonpublic companies originally were not required to apply the provisions of SFAS150 to mandatorily redeemable financial instruments until the first fiscal period for which GAAP financial statements are prepared beginning after December 15, 2003.
Certain amounts have been contributed to an irrevocable rehabilitation trust under AngloGold's control. The monies in the trust are invested primarily in interest bearing debt securities. As at December 31, 2003 and 2002 the monies held in this trust amounted to $53 million and $32 million, respectively. Besides these assets there were no other assets that were legally restricted for purposes of settling asset retirement obligations as at December 31, 2003.
The results for the year ended December 31, 2001 on an historical basis, does not reflect the provision of SFAS 142. Had AngloGold adopted SFAS 142 on January 1, 2001, the historical net (loss)/income, basic and diluted net (loss)/income per common share would have been changed to the adjusted amounts indicated below:
Disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments is as follows:
Foreign exchange price risk protection agreements
The group periodically enters into forward exchange and currency option contracts to hedge certain recorded transactions, firm commitments and other anticipated transactions denominated in foreign currencies. The objective of the group's foreign hedging activities is to protect the group from the risk that the eventual cash flows resulting from transactions denominated in US dollars will be adversely affected by changes in exchange rates.
In the ordinary course of business, AngloGold receives cash from the proceeds of its gold sales and is required to fund working capital requirements. This cash is managed to ensure surplus funds are invested in a manner to achieve market related returns while minimizing risks. AngloGold is able to actively source financing at competitive rates. AngloGold has sufficient undrawn borrowing facilities available to fund working capital requirements.
The fund is administered by Old Mutual Employee Benefits. The Board of Trustees review the investments tabled at a meeting of Board of Trustees. The allocation of the funds available for investment up to November 2003 has been made to Coronation Asset Management and funds withdrawn were made from Investec Asset Management. From December 2003 the monthly net cash flow is invested in or disinvested from Old Mutual Asset Managers, Coronation Asset Managers and Investec Asset Managers in the ratio of 50:25:25.
A summary of time related options showing movement from the beginning of the year to the end of the year, is presented below:
The performance related options are accounted for as variable compensation awards, accordingly the compensation expense is calculated at the end of each reporting period until the performance obligation has been met or waived. Compensation expense will vary based on the fluctuations of the underlying stock price in excess of the exercise price.
29. STOCK SPLIT