Southern Copper Q4 2023 Earnings Report
Key Takeaways
Southern Copper Corporation's Q4 2023 net sales decreased by 18.6% compared to Q4 2022, with net income falling by 50.7%. Sales volumes decreased for copper, silver and zinc, while prices were down for molybdenum and zinc. Copper production also saw a slight decrease.
Net sales decreased by 18.6% versus 4Q22.
Net income decreased 50.7% versus 4Q22.
Adjusted EBITDA decreased 35.3% under the $1,631.4 million registered in 4Q22.
Copper production registered a decrease of 3.0% in 4Q23.
Southern Copper
Southern Copper
Forward Guidance
Southern Copper anticipates a volatile copper market in 2024, initially expecting a surplus but now foreseeing potential deficits due to production cuts by some producers and low inventories. They believe copper prices should have good support through 2024 and are focused on developing capital projects and controlling costs.
Positive Outlook
- Copper prices should have good support through 2024.
- Focus on developing capital projects.
- Keeping costs controlled at a very competitive level.
- Pilares project drove to full capacity in 2023.
- Initiated ramp-up at the Buenavista zinc concentrator.
Challenges Ahead
- Highly volatile copper market.
- Initial estimates for 2024 called for a surplus.
- Significant reduction in copper production was announced by some producers.
- Market expectations for a surplus ceased.
- Concerns about potential deficits due to low available inventories.