Gulf starts at Sheikh Adi-2 25/05/2012
Iraq-focused oil explorer Gulf Keystone Petroleum (GKP) has begun drilling at the Sheikh Adi-2 well in the Sheikh Adi block.
Russia-focused Highland Gold Mining (HGM) is continuing expansion after upping annual pre-tax profits 65 per cent to $144.3 million (£90 million). The AIM-quoted company increased turnover 48 per cent to $244 million in 2010, as it boosted production 22.5 per cent to 200,000 oz at its flagship Mnogovershinnoye (MNV) mine.
Highland says cash costs at MNV rose by $10 to $496 an ounce, against current market prices of more than $1,500 an ounce. Chaired by Duncan Baxter, the company, which lifted capital spending 16 per cent to $37 million and ended the year with $167.6 million cash, says it will increase its gold resources by fast tracking projects deemed to have 'strategic importance'.
Floated at 190p in 2002, Highland shares had a chequered early history. Growth Company Investor recommended Highland at 44p in 2008, later suggesting partial profit taking at 119p.
The shares now change hands at 166.5p, down 5p today, valuing the company at £541.5 million. If you agree with Goldman Sachs that gold is soon to peak out, further profit taking might be appropriate. Otherwise, hold on for now.
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Iraq-focused oil explorer Gulf Keystone Petroleum (GKP) has begun drilling at the Sheikh Adi-2 well in the Sheikh Adi block.
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