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SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2023
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Risks and Uncertainties
As a global mining company, the Company’s revenue, profitability and future rate of growth are substantially dependent on prevailing metal prices, primarily for gold, but also for copper, silver, lead, and zinc. Historically, the commodity markets have been very volatile, and there can be no assurance that commodity prices will not be subject to wide fluctuations in the future. A substantial or extended decline in commodity prices could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial position, results of operations, cash flows, access to capital and on the quantities of reserves that the Company can economically produce. The carrying value of the Company’s Property, plant and mine development, net; Inventories; Stockpiles and ore on leach pads; Investments; certain Derivative assets; Deferred income tax assets; and Goodwill are particularly sensitive to the outlook for commodity prices. A decline in the Company’s price outlook from current levels could result in material impairment charges related to these assets.
Our global operations expose us to risks associated with public health crises, including epidemics and pandemics such as COVID-19, and geopolitical and macroeconomic pressures such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The Company continues to experience the impacts from recent geopolitical and macroeconomic pressures. With the resulting volatile environment, the Company continues to monitor inflationary conditions, the effects of certain countermeasures taken by central banks, and the potential for further supply chain disruptions as well as an uncertain and evolving labor market.
The following factors could have further potential short- and, possibly, long-term material adverse impacts on the Company including, but not limited to, volatility in commodity prices and the prices for gold and other metals, changes in the equity and debt markets or country specific factors adversely impacting discount rates, significant cost inflation impacts on production, capital and asset retirement costs, logistical challenges, workforce interruptions and financial market disruptions, energy market disruptions, as well as potential impacts to estimated costs and timing of projects. In light of these challenging conditions, the Company recorded long-lived asset and goodwill impairment charges at December 31, 2023. Refer to Note 7 for further information.
Additionally, as further response to the current market conditions, high inflation rates, the rising prices for commodities and raw materials, prolonged supply chain disruptions, competitive labor markets, and consideration of capital allocation, in the second quarter of 2023 the Company announced the deferral of the full-funds investment decision for the Yanacocha Sulfides project in Peru for at least two years to the second half of 2026. While the Company has extended the timeline of the full-funds decision, assessment of the project remains a priority in Peru as the Company continued to advance engineering and long-term procurement activities. The delay of the Yanacocha Sulfides project is intended to focus funds on current operations and other capital commitments while management assesses execution and project options, up to and including transitioning Yanacocha operations into full closure. To the extent that assessment determines that the project is no longer sufficiently profitable or economically feasible under the Company’s internal requirements, it would result in negative modifications to the Company's proven and probable reserves. Additionally, should the Company ultimately decide to forgo the development of Yanacocha Sulfides, the current carrying value of the assets under construction and other long-lived assets of the Yanacocha operations could become impaired and the timing of certain closure activities would be accelerated. As of December 31, 2023, the Yanacocha operations have total long-lived assets of approximately $1,269, inclusive of approximately $911 of assets under construction related to Yanacocha Sulfides. Refer also to the Company's risk factors under the titles “Estimates relating to projects and mine plans of existing operations are uncertain and we may incur higher costs and lower economic returns than estimated ” and ”Our long-lived assets and goodwill could become impaired, which could have a material non-cash adverse effect on our results of operations” included in Part I, Item 1A, Risk Factors, for further information.
Additionally, the Company continues to hold the Conga project in Peru, which we do not currently anticipate developing in the next ten years as we continue to assess Yanacocha Sulfides; accordingly, the Conga project remains in care and maintenance. Should we be unable to develop the Conga project or conclude that future development is not in the best interest of the business, we may consider other alternatives for the project, which may result in a future impairment charge for the remaining assets. The total assets at Conga were $895 and $900 at December 31, 2023 and 2022.
On June 7, 2023, the National Union of Mine and Metal Workers of the Mexican Republic (the "Union") notified the Company of a strike action. In response to the strike notice, the Company suspended operations at Peñasquito. Operations remained suspended throughout the third quarter of 2023. On October 13, 2023, the Company reached a definitive agreement with the Union that also received approval from the Mexican Labor Court. Per the agreement, the Company will pay Peñasquito workers a fixed amount equivalent to approximately 60% of wages for the duration of the strike, and an additional bonus of two months’ wages to be paid out in the second quarter of 2024, given that the Peñasquito mine reported no profit in 2023 as a consequence of the strike. Additionally, as a part of a separate annual negotiation under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the Company agreed to an annual salary increase of 8% effective as of August 1, 2023, which is in line with the Mexican mining industry wage increases for 2023. Operations at Peñasquito resumed in the fourth quarter of 2023.
The Cerro Negro mine, located in Argentina, is a USD functional currency entity. Argentina’s central bank has enacted a number of foreign currency controls in an effort to stabilize the local currency, including requiring the Company to convert U.S. dollar proceeds from metal sales to local currency and restricting payments to foreign-related entities denominated in foreign currency, such as dividends or distributions to the parent and related companies. We continue to monitor the foreign currency exposure risk and the limitations of repatriating cash to the United States. Currently, these currency controls are not expected to impact the Company's ability to repay its debt obligations or declare dividends.
Use of Estimates
The Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP. The preparation of the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the Consolidated Financial Statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The Company must make these estimates and assumptions because certain information used is dependent on future events, cannot be calculated with a high degree of precision from data available or simply cannot be readily calculated based on generally accepted methodologies. Actual results could differ from these estimates.
The more significant areas requiring the use of management estimates and assumptions relate to mineral reserves that are the basis for future cash flow estimates utilized in impairment calculations and units-of-production amortization calculations; environmental remediation, reclamation and closure obligations; estimates of recoverable gold and other minerals in stockpile and leach pad inventories; estimates of fair value for certain reporting units and asset impairments (including impairments of long-lived assets, goodwill and investments); write-downs of inventory, stockpiles and ore on leach pads to net realizable value; post-employment, post-retirement and other employee benefit liabilities; valuation allowances for deferred tax assets; provisional amounts related to income tax effects of newly enacted tax laws; provisional amounts related to uncertain tax positions; valuation of assets acquired and liabilities
assumed in a business combination; reserves for contingencies and litigation; and the fair value and accounting treatment of financial instruments including marketable and other equity securities and derivative instruments. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Accordingly, actual results will differ from those amounts estimated in these financial statements.
Principles of Consolidation
The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of Newmont Corporation, more-than-50%-owned subsidiaries that it controls and variable interest entities where it is the primary beneficiary. The proportionate consolidation method is used for investments in which the Company has an undivided interest in the assets, liabilities and operations and for certain unincorporated joint ventures in the extractive industry. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. Equity method accounting is applied for certain entities where the Company does not have control, but does have significant influence over the activities that most significantly impact the entities’ operations and financial performance. The functional currency for the majority of the Company’s operations is the U.S. dollar.
The Company follows the ASC guidance for identification and reporting of entities over which control is achieved through means other than voting rights. The guidance defines such entities as Variable Interest Entities.
Business Combination and Asset Acquisition Accounting
The Company applies a screen test to evaluate if substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset or group of similar identifiable assets to determine whether a transaction should be accounted for as an asset acquisition or business combination.
When an acquisition does not meet the definition of a business combination because either: (i) substantially all of the fair value of the gross assets acquired is concentrated in a single identifiable asset, or group of similar identified assets, or (ii) the acquired entity does not have an input and a substantive process that together significantly contribute to the ability to create outputs, the Company accounts for the acquisition as an asset acquisition. In an asset acquisition, goodwill is not recognized, but rather, any excess purchase consideration over the fair value of the net assets acquired is allocated on a relative fair value basis to the identifiable net assets as of the acquisition date and any direct acquisition-related transaction costs are capitalized as part of the purchase consideration.
When an acquisition is accounted for as a business combination, the Company recognizes and measures the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values at the acquisition date, while transaction and integration costs related to business combinations are expensed as incurred. Any excess of the purchase consideration in excess of the aggregate fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets acquired, if any, is recorded as goodwill. For material acquisitions, the Company engages independent appraisers to assist with the determination of the fair value of assets acquired, liabilities assumed, noncontrolling interest, if any, and goodwill, based on recognized business valuation methodologies. An income, market or cost valuation method may be utilized to estimate the fair value of the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and noncontrolling interest, if any, in a business combination. The income valuation method represents the present value of future cash flows over the life of the asset using discrete financial forecasts, long-term growth rates, appropriate discount rates, and expected future capital requirements. The market valuation method uses prices paid for a similar asset by other purchasers in the market, normalized for any differences between the assets. The cost valuation method is based on the replacement cost of a comparable asset at the time of the acquisition adjusted for depreciation and economic and functional obsolescence of the asset. The fair value of property, plant and mine development is estimated to include the fair value of asset retirement costs of related long-lived tangible assets. During the measurement period, not to exceed one year from the date of acquisition, the Company may record adjustments to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with a corresponding offset to goodwill if new information is obtained related to facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date. After the measurement period, any subsequent adjustments are reflected in the period the adjustment arises.
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash and cash equivalents consist of all cash balances and highly liquid investments with an original maturity of three months or less. Because of the short maturity of these investments, the carrying amounts approximate their fair value. Cash and cash equivalents are held in overnight bank deposits or are invested in United States Treasury securities and money market securities. Restricted cash is excluded from cash and cash equivalents and is included in other current or non-current assets. Restricted cash is held primarily for the purpose of settling asset retirement obligations.
Time Deposits and Other Investments
The Company's time deposits and other investments primarily include time deposits with an original maturity of more than three months but less than one year. These time deposits are carried at amortized cost. Accrued interest is recorded in Other income (loss), net.
Stockpiles, Ore on Leach Pads and Inventories
As described below, costs that are incurred in or benefit the productive process are accumulated as stockpiles, ore on leach pads and inventories. Stockpiles, ore on leach pads and inventories are carried at the lower of average cost or net realizable value. Net realizable value represents the estimated future sales price of the product based on current and long-term metals prices, less the estimated costs to complete production and bring the product to sale. Write-downs of stockpiles, ore on leach pads and inventories to net realizable value are reported as a component of Costs applicable to sales and Depreciation and amortization. The current portion of stockpiles, ore on leach pads and inventories is determined based on the expected amounts to be processed within the next 12 months and utilize the short-term metal price assumption in estimating net realizable value. Stockpiles, ore on leach pads and inventories not expected to be processed within the next 12 months are classified as non-current and utilize the long-term metal price assumption in estimating net realizable value. The major classifications are as follows:
Stockpiles
Stockpiles represent ore that has been extracted from the mine and is available for further processing. Mine sequencing may result in mining material at a faster rate than can be processed. The Company generally processes the highest ore grade material first to maximize metal production; however, a blend of metal stockpiles may be processed to balance hardness and/or metallurgy in order to maximize throughput and recovery. Processing of lower grade stockpiled ore may continue after mining operations are completed. Sulfide copper ores are subject to oxidation over time which can reduce expected future recoveries. Stockpiles are measured by estimating the number of tons added and removed from the stockpile, the number of contained ounces or pounds (based on assay data) and the estimated metallurgical recovery rates (based on the expected processing method). Stockpile ore tonnages are verified by periodic surveys. Costs are added to stockpiles based on current mining costs incurred including applicable overhead and depreciation and amortization relating to mining operations and removed at each stockpile’s average cost per recoverable unit as material is processed. Carrying values are evaluated at least quarterly, in accordance with the above.
Ore on Leach Pads
Ore on leach pads represent ore that has been mined and placed on leach pads where a solution is applied to the surface of the heap to dissolve the gold or silver or extract the copper. Costs are added to ore on leach pads based on current mining costs, including applicable depreciation and amortization relating to mining operations. Costs are removed from ore on leach pads as ounces or pounds are recovered based on the average cost per estimated recoverable ounce of gold or silver or pound of copper on the leach pad. Estimates of recoverable ore on the leach pads are calculated from the quantities of ore placed on the leach pads (measured tons added to the leach pads), the grade of ore placed on the leach pads (based on assay data) and a recovery percentage (based on ore type). In general, leach pads recover between 50% and 95% of the recoverable ounces in the first year of leaching, declining each year thereafter until the leaching process is complete.
Although the quantities of recoverable metal placed on the leach pads are reconciled by comparing the grades of ore placed on pads to the quantities of metal actually recovered (metallurgical balancing), the nature of the leaching process inherently limits the ability to precisely monitor inventory levels. As a result, the metallurgical balancing process is constantly monitored and estimates are refined based on actual results over time. Historically, the Company’s operating results have not been materially impacted by variations between the estimated and actual recoverable quantities of metal on its leach pads. Variations between actual and estimated quantities resulting from changes in assumptions and estimates that do not result in write-downs to net realizable value are accounted for on a prospective basis.
In-process Inventory
In-process inventories represent material that is currently in the process of being converted to a saleable product. Conversion processes vary depending on the nature of the ore and the specific processing facility, but include mill in-circuit, flotation, leach and carbon-in-leach. In-process material is measured based on assays of the material fed into the process and the projected recoveries of the respective processing plants. In-process inventories are valued at the lower of the average cost of the material fed into the process attributable to the source material coming from the mines, stockpiles and/or leach pads, plus the in-process conversion costs, including applicable amortization relating to the process facilities incurred to that point in the process or net realizable value.
Precious Metals Inventory
Precious metals inventories include gold doré and/or gold bullion. Precious metals that result from the Company’s mining and processing activities are valued at the lower of the average cost of the respective in-process inventories incurred prior to the refining process, plus applicable refining costs or net realizable value.
Concentrate Inventory
Concentrate inventories represent gold, silver, lead, zinc and copper concentrate available for shipment or in transit for further processing when the sales process has not been completed. The Company values concentrate inventory at average cost, including an allocable portion of support costs and amortization. Costs are added and removed to the concentrate inventory based on metal in the concentrate and are valued at the lower of average cost or net realizable value.
Materials and Supplies
Materials and supplies are valued at the lower of average cost or net realizable value. Cost includes applicable taxes and freight.
Property, Plant and Mine Development
Facilities and Equipment
Expenditures for new facilities or equipment and expenditures that extend the useful lives of existing facilities or equipment are capitalized and recorded at cost. Facilities and equipment acquired as a part of a finance lease, build-to-suit or other financing arrangement are capitalized and recorded based on the contractual lease terms. The facilities and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method at rates sufficient to depreciate such capitalized costs over the estimated productive lives of such facilities. These estimated productive lives do not exceed the related estimated mine lives, which are based on proven and probable reserves.
Mine Development
Mine development costs include engineering and metallurgical studies, drilling and other related costs to delineate an ore body, the removal of overburden to initially expose an ore body at open pit surface mines and the building of access ways, shafts, lateral access, drifts, ramps and other infrastructure at underground mines. Costs incurred before mineralization is classified as proven and probable reserves are expensed and classified as Exploration or Advanced projects, research and development expense. Capitalization of mine development project costs that meet the definition of an asset begins once mineralization is classified as proven and probable reserves.
Drilling and related costs are capitalized for an ore body where proven and probable reserves exist and the activities are directed at obtaining additional information on the ore body or converting measured, indicated and inferred resources to proven and probable reserves. All other drilling and related costs are expensed as incurred. Drilling costs incurred during the production phase for operational ore control are allocated to inventory costs and then included as a component of Costs applicable to sales.
The cost of removing overburden and waste materials to access the ore body at an open pit mine prior to the production phase are referred to as “pre-stripping costs.” Pre-stripping costs are capitalized during the development of an open pit mine. Where multiple open pits exist at a mining complex utilizing common processing facilities, pre-stripping costs are capitalized at each pit. The removal, production, and sale of de minimis saleable materials may occur during the development phase of an open pit mine and are assigned incremental mining costs related to the removal of that material.
The production phase of an open pit mine commences when saleable minerals, beyond a de minimis amount, are produced. Stripping costs incurred during the production phase of a mine are variable production costs that are included as a component of inventory to be recognized in Costs applicable to sales in the same period as the revenue from the sale of inventory.
Mine development costs are amortized using the units-of-production method based on estimated recoverable ounces or pounds in proven and probable reserves. To the extent that these costs benefit an entire ore body, they are amortized over the estimated life of the ore body. Costs incurred to access specific ore blocks or areas that only provide benefit over the life of that area are amortized over the estimated life of that specific ore block or area.
Underground development costs are capitalized as incurred. Costs incurred before mineralization is classified as proven and probable reserves are expensed and classified as Exploration or Advanced projects, research and development expense. Capitalization of mine development project costs that meet the definition of an asset begins once mineralization is classified as proven and probable reserves.
Mineral Interests
Mineral interests include acquired interests in production, development and exploration stage properties. Mineral interests are capitalized at their fair value at the acquisition date, either as an individual asset purchase or as part of a business combination. Mineral interests in the development and exploration stage are not amortized until the underlying property is converted to the production stage, at which point the mineral interests are amortized over the estimated recoverable proven and probable reserves.
The value of such assets is primarily driven by the nature and amount of mineral interests believed to be contained in such properties. Production stage mineral interests represent interests in operating properties that contain proven and probable reserves and are amortized using the units-of-production method based on the estimated recoverable ounces or pounds in proven and probable reserves. Development stage mineral interests represent interests in properties under development that contain proven and probable reserves. Exploration stage mineral interests represent interests in properties that are believed to potentially contain mineral resources consisting of (i) mineral resources within pits; mineral resources with insufficient drill spacing to qualify as proven and probable reserves; and mineral resources in close proximity to proven and probable reserves; (ii) around-mine exploration potential not immediately adjacent to existing reserves and mineralization, but located within the immediate mine area; (iii) other mine-related exploration potential that is not part of current resources and is comprised mainly of material outside of the immediate mine area;
(iv) greenfield exploration potential that is not associated with any other production, development or exploration stage property, as described above; or (v) any acquired right to explore or extract a potential mineral deposit. The Company’s mineral rights generally are enforceable regardless of whether proven and probable reserves have been established. In certain limited situations, the nature of a mineral right changes from an exploration right to a mining right upon the establishment of proven and probable reserves. The Company has the ability and intent to renew mineral interests where the existing term is not sufficient to recover all identified and valued proven and probable reserves and/or undeveloped mineral resources.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net assets acquired in a business acquisition. Goodwill is allocated to reporting units and tested for impairment annually as of December 31 and when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value. Each operating mine is considered a distinct reporting unit for purposes of goodwill impairment testing.
The Company may elect to perform a qualitative assessment when it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is higher than its carrying value. If the Company determines that it is more likely than not that the fair value is less than the carrying value, a quantitative goodwill impairment test is performed to determine the fair value of the reporting unit. The fair value of a reporting unit is determined using either the income approach utilizing estimates of discounted future cash flows or the market approach utilizing recent transaction activity for comparable properties. These approaches are considered Level 3 fair value measurements. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess, limited to the total amount of goodwill allocated to that reporting unit. The Company recognizes its pro rata share of goodwill and any subsequent goodwill impairment losses recorded by entities that are proportionately consolidated.
The estimated cash flows used to assess the fair value of a reporting unit are derived from the Company’s current business plans, which are developed using short-term price forecasts reflective of the current price environment and management’s projections for long-term average metal prices. In addition to short- and long-term metal price assumptions, other assumptions include estimates of commodity-based and other input costs; capital investments; proven and probable mineral reserves estimates, including the timing and cost to develop and produce the reserves; value beyond proven and probable mineral reserve estimates; estimated future closure costs; the use of appropriate discount rates; and applicable U.S. dollar long-term exchange rates.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets
The Company reviews and evaluates its long-lived assets for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is measured and recorded based on the estimated fair value of the long-lived assets being tested for impairment, and their carrying amounts. Fair value is typically determined through the use of an income approach utilizing estimates of discounted pre-tax future cash flows or a market approach utilizing recent transaction activity for comparable properties. These approaches are considered Level 3 fair value measurements. Occasionally, such as when an asset is held for sale, market prices are used.
The estimated undiscounted cash flows used to assess recoverability of long-lived assets and to measure the fair value of the Company’s mining operations are derived from current business plans, which are developed using short-term price forecasts reflective of the current price environment and management’s projections for long-term average metal prices. In addition to short- and long-term metal price assumptions, other assumptions include estimates of commodity-based and other input costs; proven and probable mineral reserve estimates, including the timing and cost to develop and produce the reserves; value beyond proven and probable mineral reserve estimates; estimated future closure costs; and the use of appropriate discount rates.
In estimating undiscounted cash flows, assets are grouped at the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows that are largely independent of undiscounted cash flows from other asset groups. The Company’s estimates of undiscounted cash flows are based on numerous assumptions and it is possible that actual cash flows may differ significantly from estimates, as actual produced reserves, metal prices, commodity-based and other costs, and closure costs are each subject to significant risks and uncertainties.
Investments
Management classifies investments at the acquisition date and re-evaluates the classification at each balance sheet date and when events or changes in circumstances indicate that there is a change in the Company’s ability to exercise significant influence. The ability to exercise significant influence is typically presumed when the Company possesses 20% or more of the voting interests in the investee. The Company accounts for its investments in stock of other entities over which the Company has significant influence, but not control, using the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, the Company increases its investment for contributions made and records its proportionate share of net earnings, declared dividends and partnership distributions based on the most recently available financial statements of the investee. To the extent that there is a basis difference between the amount invested and the underlying equity in the net assets of an equity investment, the Company allocates such differences between tangible and intangible assets. This basis difference is being amortized into Equity income (loss) of affiliates over the remaining estimated useful lives of the underlying tangible and intangible net assets. Equity method investments are included in Investments.
Contributions made to equity method investees at times are in the form of loan agreements. Loans provided to equity method investees that are made based on the Company's proportionate ownership percentage are accounted for as “in-substance capital contributions” and are treated as an increase to the investment. Principal and interest payments received on loans treated as in-substance capital contributions are assessed under the cumulative earnings approach to determine if the distribution received represents a return on capital or a return of capital. Return on capital distributions are recorded as an operating cash flow whereas return of capital distributions are recorded as an investing cash flow. Loans provided to equity method investees that are not made on a proportionate basis are accounted for as a loan receivable and do not increase the investment. Principal payments received on loans not treated as an in-substance capital contribution are accounted for as a reduction to the loan receivable and interest received is recorded as interest income.
The Company evaluates its equity method investments for potential impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that there is an other-than-temporary decline in the value of the investment. Declines in fair value that are deemed to be other-than-temporary are charged to Other income (loss), net.
Additionally, the Company has certain marketable equity and debt securities and other equity securities. Marketable equity securities are measured primarily at fair value with any changes in fair value recorded in Other income (loss), net. Certain other equity securities are accounted for under the measurement alternative (cost less impairment, adjusted for any qualifying observable price changes) when fair value is not readily determinable. The Company accounts for its restricted marketable debt securities as available-for-sale securities. Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments, net of taxes, are reported as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in Total equity, unless an impairment is deemed to be credit-related. Credit-related impairment is recognized as an allowance for credit losses on the balance sheet with a corresponding charge to Other income (loss), net.
Derivative Instruments
We hold derivatives for risk management purposes rather than for trading. We use derivatives to mitigate uncertainty and volatility caused by underlying exposures to foreign exchange rates and energy prices. The fair values of all derivative instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities at the balance sheet date and are reported gross.
Financial instruments that meet the definition of a derivative, but are not designated for hedge accounting under ASC 815, are accounted for at fair value using derivative pricing models. Valuation models require a variety of inputs, including long term metal prices, life of mine production profiles, discount rates, and inflation assumptions. These instruments are subsequently remeasured to their fair value at each reporting date with the resulting gain or loss recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.
Cash Flow Hedges
The fair value of derivative contracts qualifying as cash flow hedges are reflected as assets or liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The changes in fair value of these hedges are deferred in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Amounts deferred in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to income when the hedged transaction has occurred in the same income statement line where the earnings effect of the hedged item is presented. Cash transactions related to the Company’s derivative contracts accounted for as hedges are classified in the same category as the item being hedged in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
When derivative contracts qualifying as cash flow hedges are settled, accelerated or restructured before the maturity date of the contracts, the related amount in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at the settlement date is deferred and reclassified to earnings, when the originally designated hedged transaction impacts earnings and is presented in the same income statement line item as the earnings effect of the hedged item, unless the underlying hedge transaction becomes probable of not occurring, at which time related amounts in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to earnings immediately.
Debt
The Company carries its Senior Notes at amortized cost.
Debt issuance costs and debt premiums and discounts, which are included in Debt, are amortized using the effective interest method over the terms of the respective Senior Notes as a component of Interest expense, net within the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Gain or loss on extinguishment of debt is recorded as a component of Other income (loss), net upon the extinguishment of a debt instrument and is calculated as the difference between the reacquisition price and net carrying amount of the debt, which includes unamortized debt issuance costs. We evaluate all changes to our debt arrangements to determine whether the changes represent a modification or extinguishment to the old debt arrangement. If a debt instrument is deemed to be modified, we capitalize all new lender fees and expense all third-party fees. If we determine that an extinguishment of one of our debt instruments has occurred, the unamortized financing fees associated with the extinguished instrument are expensed. For the revolving loans, all lender and third-party fees are capitalized, and in the event an amendment reduces the committed capacity under the revolving loans, we expense a portion of any unamortized fees on a pro-rata basis in proportion to the decrease in the committed capacity.
Leases
The Company determines if a contractual arrangement represents or contains a lease at inception. Operating leases are included in Other non-current assets and Other current and non-current liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Finance leases are included in Property, plant and mine development, net and current and non-current Lease and other financing obligations in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
Operating and finance lease right-of-use ("ROU") assets and lease liabilities are recognized at the lease commencement date based on the present value of the future lease payments over the lease term. Leases acquired in a business combination are also measured based on the present value of the remaining leases payments, as if the acquired lease were a new lease at the acquisition date. When the rate implicit to the lease cannot be readily determined, the Company utilizes its incremental borrowing rate in determining the present value of the future lease payments. The incremental borrowing rate is derived from information available at the lease commencement date and represents the rate of interest that the Company would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term and amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment. The ROU asset includes any lease payments made and lease incentives received prior to the commencement date. Operating lease ROU assets also include any cumulative prepaid or accrued rent when the lease payments are uneven throughout the lease term. The ROU assets and lease liabilities may include options to extend or terminate the lease when it is reasonably certain that the Company will exercise that option.
The Company has lease arrangements that include both lease and non-lease components. The Company accounts for each separate lease component and its associated non-lease components as a single lease component for the majority of its asset classes. Additionally, for certain lease arrangements that involve leases of similar assets, the Company applies a portfolio approach to effectively account for the underlying ROU assets and lease liabilities.
Common Stock
In July 2021, Newmont filed a shelf registration statement on Form S-3 under which it can issue an indeterminate number or amount of common stock, preferred stock, debt securities, guarantees of debt securities and warrants from time to time at indeterminate prices, subject to the limitations of the Delaware General Corporation Law, the Company's certification of incorporation and bylaws. It also includes the ability to resell an indeterminate amount of common stock, preferred stock and debt securities from time to time upon exercise of warrants or conversion of convertible securities.
Treasury Stock
The Company records repurchases of common shares as Treasury stock at cost and records any subsequent retirements of treasury shares at cost. When treasury shares are retired, the Company’s policy is to allocate the excess of the repurchase price over the par value of shares acquired to both Retained earnings and Additional paid-in capital using settlement-date accounting. The portion allocated to Additional paid-in capital is calculated on a pro rata basis of the shares to be retired and the total shares issued and outstanding as of the date of the retirement.
During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company repurchased and retired approximately — million, — million and 9 million shares of its common stock for $—, $— and $525, respectively. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, the Company withheld 0.6 million, 0.6 million and 0.6 million shares, respectively, for payments of employee withholding taxes related to the vesting of stock awards.
Revenue Recognition
Newmont generates revenue by selling gold, copper, silver, lead, and zinc produced from its mining operations. Refer to Note 4 for further information regarding the Company’s operating segments.
The majority of the Company’s Sales come from the sale of refined gold; however, the end product at the Company’s gold operations is generally doré bars. Doré is an alloy consisting primarily of gold but also containing silver and other metals. Doré is sent to refiners to produce bullion that meets the required market standard of 99.95% gold. Under the terms of the Company’s refining agreements, the doré bars are refined for a fee, and the Company’s share of the refined gold and the separately-recovered silver is credited to its bullion account. Gold from doré bars credited to its bullion account is typically sold to banks or refiners.
A portion of gold sold from certain sites is sold in the form of concentrate. The Company’s Sales also come from the sale of copper, silver, lead, and zinc. Sales from these metals are generally in the form of concentrate, which is sold to smelters for further treatment and refining.
Generally, if a metal expected to be mined represents more than 10% to 20% of the life of mine sales value of all the metal expected to be mined, co-product accounting is applied. When the Company applies co-product accounting at an operation, revenue is recognized for each co-product metal sold, and shared costs applicable to sales are allocated based on the relative sales values of the co-product metals produced. Generally, if metal expected to be mined is less than the 10% to 20% of the life of mine sales value, by-product accounting is applied. Revenues from by-product sales, which are immaterial, are credited to Costs applicable to sales as a by-product credit. Silver, lead and zinc are produced as co-products at Peñasquito. Copper is produced as a co-product at Red Chris,
Boddington, Cadia, and Telfer. Aside from the co-product sales at Red Chris, Peñasquito, Boddington, Cadia, and Telfer, copper and silver produced at other Newmont sites are by-product metals.
Gold Sales from Doré Production
The Company recognizes revenue for gold from doré production when it satisfies the performance obligation of transferring gold inventory to the customer, which generally occurs upon transfer of gold bullion credits as this is the point at which the customer obtains control the ability to direct the use and obtains substantially all of the remaining benefits of ownership of the asset.
The Company generally recognizes the sale of gold bullion credits when the credits are delivered to the customer. The transaction price is determined based on the agreed upon market price and the number of ounces delivered. Payment is due upon delivery of gold bullion credits to the customer’s account.
Sales from Concentrate Production
The Company recognizes revenue for gold, copper, silver, lead, and zinc from concentrate production, net of treatment and refining charges, when it satisfies the performance obligation of transferring control of the concentrate to the customer. This generally occurs as material passes over the vessel's rail at the port of loading based on the date from the bill of lading, as the customer has the ability to direct the use of and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from the material and the customer has the risk of loss. Newmont has elected to account for shipping and handling costs for concentrate contracts as fulfillment activities and not as promised goods or services; therefore these activities are not considered separate performance obligations.
The Company generally sells metal concentrate based on the monthly average market price for a future month, dependent on the relevant contract, following the month in which the delivery to the customer takes place. The amount of revenue recognized for concentrates is initially recorded on a provisional basis based on the forward prices for the estimated month of settlement and the Company’s estimated metal quantities based on assay data. The Company’s sales based on a provisional price contain an embedded derivative that is required to be separated from the host contract for accounting purposes. The host contract is the receivable from the sale of the concentrates at the forward price at the time of sale. The embedded derivative, which is not designated for hedge accounting, is primarily marked to market through Sales each period prior to final settlement. The Company also adjusts estimated metal quantities used in computing provisional sales using new information and assay data from the smelter as it is received (if any).
A provisional payment is generally due upon delivery of the concentrate to the customer. Final payment is due upon final settlement of price and quantity with the customer.
The principal risks associated with recognition of sales on a provisional basis include metal price fluctuations and updated quantities between the date the sale is recorded and the date of final settlement. If a significant decline in metal prices occurs, or assay data results in a significant change in quantity between the provisional pricing date and the final settlement date, it is reasonably possible that the Company could be required to return a portion of the provisional payment received on the sale. Refer to Note 5 for additional information.
Income and Mining Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes using the liability method, recognizing certain temporary differences between the financial reporting basis of the Company’s liabilities and assets and the related income tax basis for such liabilities and assets. This method generates either a net deferred income tax liability or asset for the Company, as measured by the statutory tax rates in effect. The Company derives its deferred income tax charge or benefit by recording the change in either the net deferred income tax liability or asset balance for the year. The financial statement effects of changes in tax law are recorded as discrete items in the period enacted as part of income tax expense or benefit from continuing operations, regardless of the category of income or loss to which the deferred taxes relate. The Company determines if the assessment of a particular income tax effect is “complete.” Those effects for which the accounting is determined to be complete are reported in the enactment period financial statements. The Company has exposure to the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations on tax positions in certain jurisdictions, such movements are recorded within Income and mining tax benefit (expense) related to deferred income tax assets and liabilities, as well as non-current uncertain tax positions, while foreign exchange fluctuations impacting current tax positions are recorded within Other income (loss), net as foreign currency exchange gains (losses). With respect to the earnings that the Company derives from the operations of its consolidated subsidiaries, in those situations where the earnings are indefinitely reinvested, no deferred taxes have been provided on the unremitted earnings (including the excess of the carrying value of the net equity of such entities for financial reporting purposes over the tax basis of such equity) of these consolidated companies.
Mining taxes represent state and provincial taxes levied on mining operations and are classified as income taxes. As such, taxes are based on a percentage of mining profits.
Newmont’s operations are in multiple jurisdictions where uncertainties arise in the application of complex tax regulations. Some of these tax regimes are defined by contractual agreements with the local government, while others are defined by general tax laws and regulations. Newmont and its subsidiaries are subject to reviews of its income tax filings and other tax payments, and disputes can arise with the taxing authorities over the interpretation of its contracts or laws. The Company recognizes potential
liabilities and records tax liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues in the U.S. and other tax jurisdictions based on its estimate of whether it is more likely than not, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due. The Company adjusts these reserves in light of changing facts and circumstances; however, due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from the Company’s current estimate of the tax liabilities. If the Company’s estimate of tax liabilities proves to be less than the ultimate assessment, an additional charge to expense would result. If the estimate of tax liabilities proves to be greater than the ultimate assessment, a tax benefit would result. The Company recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits in Income and mining tax benefit (expense). In certain jurisdictions, Newmont must pay a portion of the disputed amount to the local government in order to formally appeal the assessment. Such payment is recorded as a receivable if Newmont believes the amount is collectible.
Valuation of Deferred Tax Assets
The Company’s deferred income tax assets include certain future tax benefits. The Company records a valuation allowance against any portion of those deferred income tax assets when it believes, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred income tax asset will not be realized. The Company reviews the likelihood that it will realize the benefit of its deferred tax assets and therefore the need for valuation allowances on a quarterly basis, or more frequently if events indicate that a review is required. In determining the requirement for a valuation allowance, the historical and projected financial results of the legal entity or consolidated group recording the net deferred tax asset is considered, along with all other available positive and negative evidence.
Certain categories of evidence carry more weight in the analysis than others based upon the extent to which the evidence may be objectively verified. The Company looks to the nature and severity of cumulative pretax losses (if any) in the current three-year period ending on the evaluation date, recent pretax losses and/or expectations of future pretax losses. Other factors considered in the determination of the probability of the realization of the deferred tax assets include, but are not limited to:
Earnings history;
Projected future financial and taxable income based upon existing reserves and long-term estimates of commodity prices;
The duration of statutory carry forward periods;
Prudent and feasible tax planning strategies readily available that may alter the timing of reversal of the temporary difference;
Nature of temporary differences and predictability of reversal patterns of existing temporary differences; and
The sensitivity of future forecasted results to commodity prices and other factors.
Concluding that a valuation allowance is not required is difficult when there is significant negative evidence which is objective and verifiable, such as cumulative losses in recent years. The Company utilizes a rolling twelve quarters of pre-tax income or loss as a measure of its cumulative results in recent years. However, a cumulative three year loss is not solely determinative of the need for a valuation allowance. The Company also considers all other available positive and negative evidence in its analysis.
Reclamation and Remediation Costs
Reclamation obligations associated with operating and non-operating mine sites are recognized when an obligation is incurred and the fair value can be reasonably estimated. Fair value is measured as the present value of expected cash flow estimates, after considering inflation, our credit-adjusted risk-free rates and a market risk premium appropriate for our operations. The liability is accreted over time through periodic charges to earnings. In addition, the asset retirement cost is capitalized as part of the asset’s carrying value and amortized over the life of the related asset. Reclamation costs are periodically adjusted to reflect changes in the estimated present value resulting from the passage of time and revisions to the estimates of either the timing or amount of the reclamation costs. Changes in reclamation estimates at mines that are not currently operating, as the mine or portion of the mine site has entered the closure phase and has no substantive future economic value, are reflected in earnings in the period an estimate is revised. The estimated reclamation obligation is based on when spending for an existing disturbance is expected to occur. Costs included in estimated asset retirement obligations are discounted to their present value as cash flows are readily estimable over a period of up to fifty years. The Company reviews, on an annual basis, unless otherwise deemed necessary, the reclamation obligation at each mine site in accordance with ASC guidance for asset retirement obligations.
Remediation costs are accrued when it is probable that an obligation has been incurred and the cost can be reasonably estimated. Such cost estimates may include ongoing care, maintenance and monitoring costs. Changes in remediation estimates at non-operating mines are reflected in earnings in the period an estimate is revised. Water treatment costs included in environmental remediation obligations are discounted to their present value as cash flows are readily estimable over a period up to fifty years.
Foreign Currency
The functional currency for the majority of the Company’s operations is the U.S. dollar. Transaction gains and losses related to foreign currency denominated monetary assets and liabilities where the functional currency is the U.S. dollar are remeasured at current exchange rates and the resulting adjustments are included in Other income (loss), net. The financial statements of our foreign entities
with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar are translated into U.S. dollars with the resulting adjustments charged or credited directly to Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in total equity. All assets and liabilities are translated into the U.S. dollar using exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date, while revenues and expenses are translated at the weighted average exchange rates for the period. The gains or losses on foreign currency rates on cash holdings in foreign currencies are included in Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company records stock-based compensation awards exchanged for employee services at fair value on the date of the grant and expenses the awards in the Consolidated Statements of Operations over the requisite employee service period. The fair value of stock options is determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The fair value of RSUs are based on the Newmont stock price on the date of grant. The fair value of PSUs with market-related conditions is determined using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The fair value of PSUs with performance-related conditions is determined based on the Newmont stock price on the date of grant and the probability of the performance conditions being met. Stock-based compensation expense related to all awards, including awards with a market or performance condition that cliff vest, is generally recognized ratably over the requisite service period of the award on a straight-line basis. The Company recognizes forfeitures as they occur. The Company's estimates may be impacted by certain variables including, but not limited to, stock price volatility, employee retirement eligibility dates, the Company's performance and related tax impacts.
Net Income (Loss) per Common Share
Basic and diluted income per share are presented for Net income (loss) attributable to Newmont stockholders. Basic income per common share is computed by dividing income available to Newmont common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income per common share is computed similarly except that weighted average common shares is increased to reflect all dilutive instruments, including employee stock awards. Dilutive securities are excluded from the calculation of diluted weighted average common shares outstanding if their effect would be anti-dilutive based on the treasury stock method or due to a net loss from continuing operations.
Discontinued Operations
The Company reports the results of operations of a business as discontinued operations if a disposal represents a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on the Company’s operations and financial results when the business is classified as held for sale, in accordance with ASC 360, Property, Plant and Equipment and ASC 205-20, Presentation of Financial Statements - Discontinued Operations. Under ASC 360, assets may be classified as held for sale even though discontinued operations classification is not met. Equity method investments, which are specifically scoped out of ASC 360, can only be classified as held for sale if discontinued operations classification is also achieved. The results of discontinued operations are reported in Net income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations for current and prior periods, including any gain or loss recognized on closing or adjustment of the carrying amount to fair value less cost to sell.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
In addition to Net income (loss), Comprehensive income (loss) includes all changes in equity during a period, such as adjustments to minimum pension liabilities, foreign currency translation adjustments, changes in fair value of derivative instruments that qualify as cash flow hedges and cumulative unrecognized changes in fair value of marketable debt securities classified as available-for-sale, except those resulting from investments by and distributions to owners.
Care and Maintenance
The Company incurs certain direct operating costs and depreciation and amortization costs when operations are temporarily halted and placed in care and maintenance. Direct operating costs incurred while operations are temporarily placed in care and maintenance are included in Other expense, net as these costs do not benefit the productive process and are not related to sales. Depreciation and amortization costs incurred while operations are temporarily placed in care and maintenance are included in Depreciation and amortization.
Reclassifications
Certain amounts and disclosures in prior years have been reclassified to conform to the 2023 presentation.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements and Securities and Exchange Commission Rules
Inflation Reduction Act
In August 2022, the U.S. government enacted the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (the "IRA") into law. The IRA introduced an excise tax on stock repurchases of 1% of the fair market value of stock repurchases net of stock issued during the tax year and a corporate alternative minimum tax (the "Corporate AMT") of 15% on the adjusted financial statement income ("AFSI") of corporations
with average AFSI exceeding $1 billion over a three-year period. The excise tax on stock repurchases is effective on net stock repurchases made after December 31, 2022 and the Corporate AMT is effective for tax periods beginning in fiscal year 2023. While waiting on pending Department of Treasury regulatory guidance, the Company is continuing to monitor developments. Based upon information known to date, no material impacts are expected to the Consolidated Financial Statements, disclosures, or cash flows.
In 2024, Pillar II is set to take effect. The Pillar II agreement was signed by 138 countries with the intent to equalize corporate tax around the world by implementing a global minimum tax of 15%. As Newmont primarily does business in jurisdictions with a tax rate greater than 15%, the Company does not anticipate a material impact to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Effects of Reference Rate Reform
In March 2020, ASU No. 2020-04 was issued which provides optional guidance for a limited period of time to ease the potential burden on accounting for contract modifications caused by reference rate reform. In January 2021, ASU No. 2021-01 was issued which broadened the scope of ASU No. 2020-04 to include certain derivative instruments. In December 2022, ASU No. 2022-06 was issued which deferred the sunset date of ASU No. 2020-04. The guidance is effective for all entities as of March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2024. The guidance may be adopted over time as reference rate reform activities occur and should be applied on a prospective basis. The Company has completed its review of key contracts and does not expect the guidance to have a material impact to the consolidated financial statements or disclosures. The Company will continue to review new contracts to identify references to the LIBOR and implement adequate fallback provisions if not already implemented to mitigate the risks or impacts from the transition.
Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements and Securities and Exchange Commission Rules
Improvement to Income Tax Disclosures
In December 2023, ASU 2023-09 was issued which requires disaggregated information about the effective tax rate reconciliation and additional information on taxes paid that meet a qualitative threshold. The new guidance is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impacts of the guidance on its Consolidated Financial Statements.
Segments Reporting
In November 2023, ASU 2023-07 was issued which improves disclosures about a public entity’s reportable segments and addresses requests from investors and other allocators of capital for additional, more detailed information about a reportable segment’s expenses. The ASU applies to all public entities that are required to report segment information in accordance with ASC 280 and is effective starting in annual periods beginning after December 15, 2023. The adoption is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements or disclosures.