AngloGold output up but loss looms on impairment, retrenchment, silicosis costs

Gold mining company AngloGold Ashanti produced more gold in the 12 months to December 31 than in the same period of 2016, but is heading for a basic loss for the period on impairment, retrenchment and silicosis settlement costs, the company said in a trading statement on Wednesday. Full-year production of 3.755-million ounces last year beat 2016’s 3.628-million ounces and all-in sustaining costs and capital expenditure for the year remain well within the market guidance provided for 2017.   But the basic loss for the period is expected to be between $180-million and $200-million, with expected overall headline earnings decreases primarily the result of previously disclosed: