EX-99.3 4 exhibit99-3.htm EXHIBIT 99.3 Hudbay Minerals Inc. - Exhibit 99.3 - Filed by newsfilecorp.com

Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Results of Operations and Financial Condition

For the year ended
December 31, 2018

February 19, 2019

 
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page
   
Introduction 3
Our Business 3
Strategy 4
Summary of Results 5
Key Financial Results 8
Key Production Results 9
Recent Developments 10
Constancia Operations Review 12
Manitoba Operations Review 16
Outlook 23
Financial Review 28
Liquidity and Capital Resources 37
Financial Risk Management 41
Trend Analysis and Quarterly Review 43
Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures 45
Accounting Changes 56
Critical Accounting Judgments and Estimates 56
Disclosure Controls and Procedures and Internal Control Over Financial Reporting 58
Notes to Reader 59

 

INTRODUCTION

This Management's Discussion and Analysis ("MD&A") dated February 19, 2019 is intended to supplement Hudbay Minerals Inc.'s audited consolidated financial statements and related notes for the year ended December 31, 2018 (the "consolidated financial statements"). The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS") as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”).

References to “Hudbay”, the “Company”, “we”, “us”, “our” or similar terms refer to Hudbay Minerals Inc. and its direct and indirect subsidiaries as at December 31, 2018.

Readers should be aware that:

–

This MD&A contains certain “forward-looking statements” and “forward-looking information” (collectively, “forward-looking information”) that are subject to risk factors set out in a cautionary note contained in our MD&A.

–

This MD&A has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the securities laws in effect in Canada, which may differ materially from the requirements of United States securities laws applicable to US issuers.

–

We use a number of non- IFRS financial performance measures in our MD&A.

–

The technical and scientific information in this MD&A has been approved by qualified persons based on a variety of assumptions and estimates.

For a discussion of each of the above matters, readers are urged to review the “Notes to Reader” discussion beginning on page 59 of this MD&A.

Additional information regarding Hudbay, including the risks related to our business and those that are reasonably likely to affect our consolidated financial statements in the future, is contained in our continuous disclosure materials, including our most recent Annual Information Form (“AIF”), consolidated financial statements and Management Information Circular available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and on EDGAR at www.sec.gov.

As of January 1, 2018, we have adopted IFRS 9, Financial Instruments (“IFRS 9”) and IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“IFRS 15”). The Company applied these standards retrospectively. Changes to previously reported balances are disclosed in Note 4(c) of the consolidated financial statements. Disclosures in this MD&A are restated for the impacts of these accounting changes. With the implementation of IFRS 15, the Company has determined that precious metals stream contracts are subject to variable consideration and contain a significant financing component. As such, the Company now recognizes a financing charge at each reporting period and will gross up the deferred revenue balance to recognize the significant financing element that is part of these contracts.

All amounts are in US dollars unless otherwise noted.

OUR BUSINESS

We are an integrated mining company primarily producing copper concentrate (containing copper, gold, and silver), molybdenum concentrate and zinc metal. With assets in North and South America, we are focused on the discovery, production and marketing of base and precious metals. Directly and through our subsidiaries, we own three polymetallic mines, four ore concentrators and a zinc production facility in northern Manitoba and Saskatchewan (Canada) and Cusco (Peru), and copper projects in Arizona and Nevada (United States). Our growth strategy is focused on the exploration and development of properties we already control, as well as other mineral assets we may acquire that fit our strategic criteria. Our vision is to be a responsible, top-tier operator of long-life, low-cost mines in the Americas. We are governed by the Canada Business Corporations Act and our shares are listed under the symbol "HBM" on the Toronto Stock Exchange, New York Stock Exchange and Bolsa de Valores de Lima.

3

 

STRATEGY

Our mission is to create sustainable value through acquisition, development and operation of high quality, long life deposits with exploration potential in jurisdictions that support responsible mining, and to see the regions and communities in which we operate benefit from our presence.

We believe that the greatest opportunities for shareholder value creation in the mining industry are in the discovery of new mineral deposits and the development of new facilities to profitably extract ore from those deposits. We also believe that our successful development, ramp-up and operation of the Constancia mine in Peru, along with our long history of mining and experience in northern Manitoba provide us with a competitive advantage in these respects relative to other mining companies of similar scale.

We intend to grow Hudbay through exploration and development of properties we already control, such as our Rosemont project in Arizona, as well as through the acquisition of other properties that fit our strategic criteria. We also continuously work to optimize the value of our producing assets through efficient and safe operations.

To ensure that any acquisitions we undertake create sustainable value for stakeholders, we have established a number of criteria for evaluating mineral property acquisition opportunities. These include the following:

–

Geography: Potential acquisitions should be located in jurisdictions that support responsible mining activity and have acceptable levels of political risk. Given our current scale and geographic footprint, our current geographic focus is on select investment grade countries in the Americas, with strong rule of law and respect for human rights;

–

Geology: We believe we have particular expertise in the exploration and development of porphyry and volcanogenic massive sulphide mineral deposits. While these types of deposits typically contain copper, zinc and precious metals in varying quantities, we have a primary focus on copper;

–

Commodity: Among the metals we produce, we believe copper has the best long- term supply/demand fundamentals and the greatest opportunities for risk-adjusted returns;

–

Quality: We are focused on adding long-life, low-cost assets to our existing portfolio of high quality assets. Long life assets can capture peak pricing of multiple commodity price cycles and low cost assets can generate free cash flow even through the trough of price cycles;

–

Potential: We consider the full spectrum of acquisition opportunities from early-stage exploration to producing assets, but they must meet our stringent criteria for growth and value creation. We believe that the market for mineral assets is sophisticated and fully values delineated resources and reserves, especially at properties that are already in production, which makes it difficult to acquire properties for substantially less than their fair value. Therefore, we typically look for mineral assets that we believe offer significant potential for exploration, development and optimization;

–

Process: Before we decide to make an acquisition, we develop a clear understanding of how we can add value to the acquired property primarily through the application of our technical, social, operational and project execution expertise, as well as through the provision of necessary financial capacity and other operational optimization opportunities;

–

Operatorship: We believe real value is created through leading efficient project development and operations. Additionally, we believe that large, transformational mergers or acquisitions are risky and potentially value- destructive in the mining industry;

–

Financial: Acquisitions should be accretive to Hudbay on a per share basis. Given that our strategic focus includes the acquisition of non- producing assets at various stages of development, when evaluating accretion, we will consider measures such as net asset value per share and the contained value of reserves and resources per share.

Our key objectives for 2019 are to:

  –

Maintain our industry-leading low-cost business to continue to generate positive cash flow;

–

Complete a new reserve and resource estimate for the Snow Lake operations including our 100% owned Lalor, Pen, Wim, and New Britannia properties, and advance plans for the refurbishment of the New Britannia mill;

–

Maintain Constancia targeted recoveries and throughput, while identifying areas of upside through continuous improvement initiatives;

  –

Commence the development of the Pampacancha satellite deposit;

4

 
  – Advance Rosemont through the final stage of permitting and initiate early works activities;
– Test promising exploration targets near Lalor and plan near-term exploration programs in Peru, British Columbia and Nevada; and,
– Continue to evaluate exploration and acquisition opportunities that meet our criteria described above and pursue those opportunities that we determine to be in the best interest of the company and our stakeholders.

SUMMARY

–

On a consolidated basis, Hudbay’s copper production exceeded the mid- point of 2018 guidance by 14% and production of zinc and precious metals were within 2018 guidance ranges; copper production at Constancia exceeded the top end of 2018 guidance and Manitoba copper production was at the top end of the guidance range.

–

Constancia achieved record mill throughput, record copper recoveries and record molybdenum production in 2018.

–

Cash generated from operating activities was $137.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2018 and $479.6 million in the full year 2018.

–

Net debt decreased to $465.5 million as at December 31, 2018, including cash and cash equivalents of $515.5 million.

  –

Updated reserve and resource estimate at Lalor including a 65% increase in gold reserves.

–

New Lalor mine plan more than doubles annual gold production from current levels once the New Britannia mill is operating with average annual gold production of approximately 140,000 ounces over the first five years at a sustaining cash cost, net of by -product credits of $450 per ounce, positioning Lalor as one of the lowest cost gold mines in Canada.

Summary of Fourth Quarter Results

Operating cash flow before change in non-cash working capital decreased to $107.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2018 from $171.9 million in the same quarter of 2017. The decrease is due mainly to lower realized prices and sales volumes for copper and zinc, partially offset by higher molybdenum concentrate sales volumes.

Net loss and basic and diluted loss per share in the fourth quarter of 2018 were $3.5 million and $0.01, respectively, compared to a net profit and earnings per share of $94.3 million and $0.36, respectively, in the fourth quarter of 2017.

In the fourth quarter of 2018, cash generated from operating activities was $137.3 million, which increased from $129.4 million in the same period of 2017 as cash flows from changes in non-cash working capital more than offset the factors described above.

Net loss and loss per share in the fourth quarter of 2018 were affected by, among other things, the following items:

(in $ millions, except per share amounts)   Pre-tax gain (loss)     After-tax gain (loss)     Per share gain (loss)  
                   
Foreign exchange gain   2.6     1.5     0.01  
Mark to market adjustments   (3.9 )   (2.9 )   (0.01 )
Non-cash accounting loss on pension plan de-risking transaction   (2.2 )   (1.4 )   (0.01 )
Non-cash deferred tax adjustments   —     (12.9 )   (0.05 )

Compared to the same quarter in 2017, copper-equivalent production in the fourth quarter of 2018 decreased by 14%, primarily as a result of lower production in Manitoba following the closure of the Reed mine and lower planned copper grades at Constancia.

In the fourth quarter of 2018, consolidated cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, was $0.94, an increase compared to $0.77 in the same period last year1. Cash costs per pound of copper produced, net of by–product credits, increased as a result of lower copper production. Incorporating sustaining capital, capitalized exploration, royalties and corporate selling and administrative expenses, consolidated all-in sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, in the fourth quarter of 2018 was $1.73, which increased from $1.56 in the fourth quarter of 20171, driven mainly by the decrease in copper production.

5

 

Net debt1 decreased by $50.9 million from September 30, 2018 to $465.5 million at December 31, 2018, primarily due to free cash flow generation. At December 31, 2018, total liquidity, including cash and available credit facilities, was $937.0 million, up from $878.4 million as at September 30, 2018.

During the fourth quarter of 2018, we completed a pension de-risking transaction whereby certain defined benefit pension obligations with an estimated solvency liability value of $126.0 million were transferred to a third party insurer in exchange for a payment from plan assets of $120.0 million. The transaction reduced the overall size and risk profile of our defined benefit pension obligations, and improved the plans’ solvency funding position, which is used to determine required funding requirements, by approximately $6.0 million. A non-cash pre-tax loss on the transaction of $2.2 million was recognized in the fourth quarter of 2018.

Summary of Full Year Results

Operating cash flow before change in non-cash working capital decreased to $493.5 million from $530.6 million in 2017. The decrease is mainly the result of higher cash taxes paid and higher cost of sales, which offset the impact of higher revenues from higher realized prices.

Net profit and basic and diluted earnings per share for 2018 were $85.4 million and $0.33, respectively, compared to a net profit and earnings per share of $139.7 million and $0.57, respectively, in 2017. The prior year profit included a non-cash tax recovery of $45.4 million primarily as a result of changes to US tax legislation. Average realized copper and zinc prices increased in 2018 compared to 2017 despite the downward trend in prices over the course of 2018. However, reduced sales volumes of copper and zinc and increased mine operating costs all contributed to overall lower net profits. Cash costs per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, were 12% higher, mainly as a result of lower copper production.

On a consolidated basis, Hudbay's copper production exceeded 2018 guidance and production of zinc and precious metals were within 2018 guidance ranges. Combined unit costs at Manitoba were within revised 2018 guidance ranges. Combined unit costs at Peru were in line with 2018 guidance ranges after reflecting the cost of higher than expected molybdenum production, and total capital expenditures were in line with expectations.

1 Cash cost and sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, net debt and combined unit costs are non- IFRS financial performance measures with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.

6

 


7

 

KEY FINANCIAL RESULTS

Financial Condition   Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
(in $ thousands)         (Restated)  
Cash and cash equivalents   515,497     356,499  
Total long-term debt   981,030     979,575  
Net debt1   465,533     623,076  
Working capital   445,228     251,388  
Total assets   4,685,635     4,728,016  
Equity   2,178,856     2,112,345  

1 Net debt is a non-IFRS financial performance measure with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.

Financial Performance   Three months ended           Year ended  
    Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
(in $ thousands, except per share amounts)   2018     2017     2018     2017  
          (Restated)           (Restated)  
Revenue   351,773     424,359     1,472,366     1,402,339  
Cost of sales   276,547     279,406     1,098,626     993,198  
Profit before tax   17,650     79,585     170,837     172,911  
(Loss) profit   (3,510 )   94,279     85,416     139,692  
Basic and diluted (loss) earnings per share   (0.01 )   0.36     0.33     0.57  
Operating cash flow before change in non-cash working capital   107,948     171,904     493,471     530,561  

8

 

KEY PRODUCTION RESULTS

          Three months ended     Three months ended  
          Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
          Peru     Manitoba     Total     Peru     Manitoba     Total  
Contained metal in concentrate produced1                                          
Copper   tonnes     30,834     6,404     37,238     33,837     9,338     43,175  
Gold   oz     7,522     20,529     28,051     5,139     27,389     32,528  
Silver   oz     750,747     263,937     1,014,684     670,219     333,272     1,003,491  
Zinc   tonnes     -     27,408     27,408     -     33,055     33,055  
Molybdenum   tonnes     329     -     329     119     -     119  
Payable metal sold                                          
Copper   tonnes     31,252     5,098     36,350     34,227     7,252     41,479  
Gold   oz     7,262     18,599     25,861     4,442     26,779     31,221  
Silver   oz     672,756     236,744     909,500     543,763     291,723     835,486  
Zinc 2   tonnes     -     31,134     31,134     -     32,318     32,318  
Molybdenum   tonnes     447     -     447     68     -     68  
Cash cost 3 $ /lb     1.31     (0.87 )   0.94     1.38     (1.42 )   0.77  
Sustaining cash cost 3 $ /lb     1.65     1.55           1.90     (0.35 )      
All-in sustaining cash cost3 $ /lb                 1.73                 1.56  

          Year ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
          Peru     Manitoba     Total     Peru     Manitoba     Total  
Contained metal in concentrate produced1                                          
Copper   tonnes     122,178     32,372     154,550     121,781     37,411     159,192  
Gold   oz     24,189     95,693     119,882     17,579     91,014     108,593  
Silver   oz     2,729,859     1,224,610     3,954,469     2,374,008     1,113,250     3,487,258  
Zinc   tonnes     -     115,588     115,588     -     135,156     135,156  
Molybdenum   tonnes     904     -     904     454     -     454  
Payable metal sold                                          
Copper   tonnes     116,449     31,474     147,923     111,402     37,253     148,655  
Gold   oz     20,420     92,677     113,097     12,464     97,306     109,770  
Silver   oz     2,255,700     1,116,653     3,372,353     1,950,893     1,109,376     3,060,269  
Zinc 2   tonnes     -     115,723     115,723     -     116,377     116,377  
Molybdenum   tonnes     819     -     819     491     -     491  
Cash cost 3 $ /lb     1.36     (0.64 )   0.94     1.28     (0.59 )   0.84  
Sustaining cash cost 3 $ /lb     1.57     0.96           1.79     0.23        
All-in sustaining cash                                          
cost3 $ /lb                 1.52                 1.54  

1 Metal reported in concentrate is prior to deductions associated with smelter contract terms.
2 Includes refined zinc metal sold and payable zinc in concentrate sold.
3 Cash cost, sustaining cash cost and all-in sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits are non-IFRS financial performance measures with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.

9

 

RECENT DEVELOPMENTS

Lalor Gold Developments

We announced increased reserves and resources at our Lalor mine and nearby satellite deposits and released an updated mine plan for Lalor incorporating the refurbishment of the New Britannia mill for processing the gold and copper-gold ore. An updated National Instrument (“NI”) 43-101 Technical Report for Lalor will be filed on SEDAR by the end of the first quarter of 2019.

Based on the detailed work completed in the last 12 months, Hudbay believes that the refurbishment of the New Britannia mill, including the addition of a copper flotation circuit, is the optimal processing scenario which capitalizes on existing infrastructure and significantly grows gold production from deposits that are unencumbered by any royalties or streams.

The New Britannia development plan contemplates completion of detailed engineering by February 2020, environmental permitting completion in April 2020 and construction activities occurring between June 2020 and August 2021, with plant commissioning and ramp-up occurring during the fourth quarter of 2021.

The revised mine plan for Lalor supports a 10 year mine life, based solely on proven and probable reserves, and utilizes the existing mining capacity of 4,500 tonnes per day at Lalor for the first six years of the mine plan. The technical work completed supports 4,500 tonnes per day as the optimal mining rate to maximize net present value, although the Lalor production shaft has the potential to hoist at higher throughput rates. The production plan has the copper-gold rich ore feeding a refurbished New Britannia mill starting in 2022 at an average feed rate of 1,100 tonnes per day at 6.7 g/t gold and 1.2% copper for seven years based on the current reserve estimate. The New Britannia mill is expected to achieve gold recoveries of approximately 93% compared to current gold recoveries of approximately 53% at the Stall mill. An estimated investment of $95 million (C$124 million) will be required in 2019 and 2021 for the refurbishment of the New Britannia mill including the addition of a copper flotation and dewatering circuit and a pipeline to direct the tailings to the existing Anderson facility. Of this, approximately $10 million is expected to be incurred in 2019 as part of Hudbay’s growth capital expenditure plans.

Between 2019 and 2021, the Stall mill is expected to process approximately 3,500 tonnes per day and approximately 1,000 tonnes per day of Lalor base metal ore will be transported to the Flin Flon mill for processing. Based on the current reserves, starting in 2022, the Stall mill throughput will gradually decrease from approximately 3,200 tonnes per day to approximately 1,800 tonnes per day.

The updated resource model at Lalor includes 5.9 million tonnes of inferred mineral resources, which has the potential to extend the mine life beyond 10 years while feeding both the Stall and New Britannia mills. In addition, the mineral resources at Hudbay’s satellite deposits in the Snow Lake region, including the copper-gold WIM deposit acquired last year for C$0.5 million from Alexandria Minerals Corporation, the former gold producing New Britannia mine and the zinc-rich Pen II deposit could provide feed for the Stall and New Britannia processing facilities and further extend the mine life.

The updated mine plan for Lalor includes processing the gold and copper-gold rich material through the New Britannia mill starting in 2022, resulting in average annual gold production of approximately 140,000 ounces over the first five years at a sustaining cash cost, net of by-product credits, of $450 per ounce, positioning Lalor as one of the lowest cost gold mines in Canada.

For additional details, refer to our February 19, 2019 press release titled “Hudbay Announces Increased Lalor Mineral Reserves and Resources and Updated Mine Plan that Confirms Substantial Increase in Gold Production” for further information.

Rosemont Developments

Work continues with the U.S. Forest Service on the draft Mine Plan of Operations ("MPO"). The remaining key federal permit outstanding is the Section 404 Water Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

10

 

We have agreed with Wheaton Precious Metals ("Wheaton") to amendments to the Rosemont precious metals stream agreement that was entered into with Wheaton prior to Hudbay's acquisition of Rosemont. The amendments reflect Hudbay's strong financial capability and project development track record. These amendments include removal of the condition that the Rosemont permits be free of all challenges and appeals prior to funding, clarification of the timing of Wheaton's funding obligation and changes to the delay payment structure to more appropriately reflect the de-risked profile of the project. Hudbay has agreed to provide a parental guarantee of Rosemont's obligations, and to allow Wheaton to elect to pay the deposit in cash or shares. The stream agreement continues to contemplate an upfront initial deposit of $230 million following the receipt of permits, finalization of the financing plan and commencement of construction, in exchange for delivery of approximately 100% of payable silver and gold produced from Rosemont at a cash price of $450 per ounce for gold and $3.90 per ounce for silver subject to escalation for inflation.

Mason Acquisition

On December 19, 2018, we completed our previously announced acquisition of Mason Resources Corp. and its wholly-owned Ann Mason project in Nevada. Ann Mason is a large greenfield copper deposit located in the historic Yerington District and is one of the largest undeveloped copper porphyry deposits in North America. In 2019, Hudbay plans to test drill ready targets over an existing induced polarization anomaly.

Adoption of Advance Notice By-Law

Our Board of Directors has approved By-Law No. 2 relating to advance notice requirements for director elections (the "Advance Notice By-Law"), effective February 19, 2019. The Advance Notice By-Law sets out a clear framework for nominating directors in connection with a shareholder meeting and is similar to the advance notice by-laws adopted by many other Canadian public companies.

The purpose of the Advance Notice By-Law is to (i) ensure that all shareholders receive adequate notice of director nominations and sufficient time and information regarding nominees to make informed voting decisions and (ii) facilitate an orderly and efficient process for the election of directors. The Advance Notice By-Law sets deadlines by which shareholders must submit director nominations to Hudbay and sets forth the information that a nominating shareholder must provide to Hudbay for any director nominee to be eligible for election.

In the case of an annual shareholder meeting, notice to Hudbay must be given:

  • not less than 30 days prior to the date of the annual meeting, or
  • if the meeting is to be held on a date that is less than 50 days after the first public announcement of the meeting date, not later than the close of business on the 15th day following such announcement.

In the case of a special meeting of shareholders (which is not also an annual meeting), notice to Hudbay must be given not later than the close of business on the 15th day following the first public announcement of the date of the special meeting.

The Advance Notice By-Law will be placed before shareholders for approval, confirmation and ratification at Hudbay’s next shareholders meeting. In the event that the By-Law is not so approved, confirmed and ratified, it shall terminate and be of no further force or effect.

Hudbay recognizes that Waterton Global Resource Management, Inc. (“Waterton”) has announced that it intends to nominate director candidates at Hudbay’s upcoming annual shareholder meeting. The Advance Notice By-Law allows Waterton to proceed with these nominations provided they are made in accordance with its terms, which in turn will ensure that the annual meeting is conducted in an orderly manner.

The full text of the Advance Notice By-Law is available under Hudbay’s profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

Dividend Declared

We declared a semi-annual dividend of C$0.01 per share on February 19, 2019. The dividend will be paid on March 29, 2019 to shareholders of record as of March 8, 2019.

11

 

CONSTANCIA OPERATIONS REVIEW

          Three months ended     Year ended     Guidance  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Annual  
          2018     2017     2018     2017     2018     2019  
Ore mined 1   tonnes     7,329,423     7,241,632     34,372,156     29,982,808              
     Copper   %     0.47     0.55     0.49     0.54              
     Gold   g/tonne     0.05     0.10     0.05     0.06              
     Silver   g/tonne     4.16     4.01     4.15     3.96              
                                           
Ore milled   tonnes     7,657,943     7,666,223     31,282,610     28,743,952              
     Copper   %     0.48     0.54     0.47     0.52              
     Gold   g/tonne     0.06     0.04     0.05     0.04              
     Silver   g/tonne     4.26     3.86     4.08     3.92              
                                           
Copper concentrate   tonnes     131,076     131,308     512,984     479,858              
Concentrate grade   % Cu     23.52     25.77     23.82     25.38              
                                           
Copper recovery   %     84.8     82.1     82.6     81.1              
Gold recovery   %     48.5     48.0     47.4     47.4              
Silver recovery   %     71.6     70.5     66.5     65.5              
                                           
Combined unit operating costs                                          
Including molybdenum plant costs2,3 $ /tonne     9.88     9.75     9.44     8.83     7.50 - 9.20     7.90 - 9.70  
                                           
Excluding molybdenum plant costs2,3 $ /tonne     9.54     9.55     9.17     8.63          

1 Reported tonnes and grade for ore mined are estimates based on mine plan assumptions and may not reconcile fully to ore milled.
2 Reflects combined mine, mill and general and administrative ("G&A") costs per tonne of ore milled. Reflects the deduction of expected capitalized stripping costs.
3 Combined unit costs is a non-IFRS financial performance measure with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.

Ore mined at our Constancia mine during the fourth quarter of 2018 was consistent compared to the same period in 2017. Milled copper grades in the fourth quarter were approximately 11% lower than the same period in 2017 as we continue to mine lower grade phases, in line with the mine plan. Mill throughput in the fourth quarter of 2018 was consistent compared to the same period in 2017. Full year milled copper grades decreased by 10% compared to 2017, due to the factors described above. Mill throughput for full year 2018 was 9% higher compared to 2017 as a result of mine blasting optimization and increased plant availability. Our Constancia mill achieved record annual mill throughput for 2018.

Copper recoveries in the fourth quarter of 2018 improved over the prior year as a result of several metallurgical initiatives. While recoveries vary from quarter to quarter depending on the complexity of the ore feed, the Company is seeing results from recovery improvement initiatives. These initiatives include continuous improvement efforts targeting water distribution and equipment operating efficiencies, the integration of an automated, advanced process control system in the grinding and bulk flotation circuits, and changes in some key operational strategies. Recovery improvements over the full year were driven by the same factors as the fourth quarter variances versus prior year. The recovery improvement initiatives will continue through 2019.

Combined mine, mill and G&A unit operating costs in the fourth quarter of 2018 were consistent with the same period in 2017. On a full year basis, including molybdenum plant costs, combined unit operating costs in 2018 of $9.44 per tonne were 7% higher than 2017 due to a decrease in capitalized stripping, higher costs for diesel and power, and higher molybdenum production, partially offset by higher mill throughput. Full year 2018 combined unit operating costs also include the signing bonuses for the three-year collective bargaining agreement signed earlier in 2018. Excluding molybdenum plant costs, combined unit costs for the full year were $9.17 per tonne. The molybdenum plant was operated substantially more than expected in the second half of 2018 following ongoing plant optimization initiatives, and the increase in revenue from molybdenum sales of $12.9 million from 2017 to 2018 more than offset the additional molybdenum plant costs of $2.7 million over the same periods.

12

 

We expect continued high utilization of the Constancia molybdenum plant in 2019, resulting in higher molybdenum plant costs, which is reflected in the guidance for combined unit costs as well as expected higher molybdenum production in 2019.

          Three months ended     Year ended     Guidance  
Contained metal in         Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Annual  
concentrate produced         2018     2017     2018     2017     2018     2019  
         Copper   tonnes     30,834     33,837     122,178     121,781     95,000 - 115,000     100,000 - 125,000  
         Gold   oz     7,522     5,139     24,189     17,579              
         Silver   oz     750,747     670,219     2,729,859     2,374,008              
         Molybdenum   tonnes     329     119     904     454           1,100 - 1,200  
Precious metals1   oz     18,247     14,713     63,187     51,493     50,000 - 70,0002     45,000 - 55,000  

1 Precious metals production includes gold and silver production on a gold-equivalent basis. Silver is converted to gold at a ratio of 70:1.

2 Initial 2018 guidance for Constancia precious metals production was 65,000 to 85,000 ounces.

In the fourth quarter of 2018, production of copper was lower than the same period in 2017, mainly due to lower copper grades. Production of gold and silver during the fourth quarter of 2018 was higher than the same period in 2017 due to higher grades and recoveries. The molybdenum plant continued to operate at substantially higher rates during the quarter, resulting in the production of 329 tonnes and 904 tonnes of molybdenum for the current quarter and full year, respectively. Year-over-year, copper production increased slightly and exceeded the high end of full year guidance by 6%, due to higher throughput and recoveries more than offsetting lower grade. Production of precious metals and molybdenum also increased year-over-year due to the same factors and precious metals production was within guidance expectations.

13

 

Peru Cash Cost and Sustaining Cash Cost

          Three months ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
          2018     2017     2018     2017  
Cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by- product credits1 $ /lb     1.31     1.38     1.36     1.28  
Sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits1 $ /lb     1.65     1.90     1.57     1.79  

1 Cash cost and sustaining cash costs per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, are not recognized under IFRS. For more detail on these non-IFRS financial performance measures, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures" section of this MD&A.

Cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018 was $1.31 and $1.36, decreasing by 5% and increasing by 6%, respectively, from the same periods in 2017. The decrease in the quarter is primarily due to higher by-product credits partially offset by lower copper production. The increase for the full year is mainly as a result of higher consumable costs and lower capitalized stripping, partially offset by higher by-product credits.

Sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018 was $1.65 and $1.57, respectively. This represents a decrease of 13% and 12%, respectively, from the same periods in 2017, as a result of reduced sustaining capital spending on heavy civil works in Peru, which more than offset the factors noted above.

14

 

Metal Sold

          Three months ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
          2018     2017     2018     2017  
Payable metal in concentrate                              
     Copper   tonnes     31,252     34,227     116,449     111,402  
     Gold   oz     7,262     4,442     20,420     12,464  
     Silver   oz     672,756     543,763     2,255,700     1,950,893  
     Molybdenum   tonnes     447     68     819     491  

15

 

MANITOBA OPERATIONS REVIEW

Mines

          Three months ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
          2018     2017     2018     2017  
777                              
     Ore   tonnes     244,613     202,528     966,567     1,014,369  
     Copper   %     1.76     1.86     1.47     1.65  
     Zinc   %     3.46     5.40     4.43     5.17  
     Gold   g/tonne     1.61     2.48     1.83     2.11  
     Silver   g/tonne     24.37     34.46     28.34     27.59  
Lalor                              
     Ore   tonnes     317,616     334,229     1,260,241     1,293,418  
     Copper   %     0.82     0.77     0.74     0.68  
     Zinc   %     6.80     7.20     6.25     7.73  
     Gold   g/tonne     2.09     2.25     2.19     1.93  
     Silver   g/tonne     24.66     25.19     25.39     23.18  
Reed1                              
     Ore   tonnes     —     102,229     326,363     460,413  
     Copper   %     —     3.52     3.35     3.67  
     Zinc   %     —     0.69     0.90     0.60  
     Gold   g/tonne     —     0.51     0.77     0.47  
     Silver   g/tonne     —     8.97     9.08     7.19  
Total Mines                              
     Ore   tonnes     562,229     638,986     2,553,171     2,768,200  
     Copper   %     1.23     1.55     1.35     1.53  
     Zinc   %     5.35     5.59     4.87     5.61  
     Gold   g/tonne     1.88     2.04     1.87     1.75  
     Silver   g/tonne     24.53     25.54     24.42     22.14  

1 Includes 100% of Reed mine production.

          Three months ended     Year ended  
                                                                Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
Unit Operating Costs 1,2         2018     2017     2018     2017  
Mines                              
     777   C$/tonne     87.29     90.34     80.59     68.49  
     Lalor   C$/tonne     110.98     80.91     94.73     80.12  
     Reed   C$/tonne     —     109.02     72.62     73.70  
Total Mines   C$/tonne     100.67     87.36     87.11     74.85  

1 Reflects costs per tonne of ore mined.
2 Unit costs is a non-IFRS financial performance measure with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.

16

 

Ore mined at our Manitoba operations during the fourth quarter of 2018 decreased by 12% compared to the same period in 2017. Decreased production at Lalor and the closure of the Reed mine was partially offset by increased production at 777.

Overall, copper, gold, zinc and silver grades were 21%, 8%, 4%, and 4% lower, respectively, in the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to the same period of 2017. Grade variances reflected anticipated declines in 777 and Lalor grades in accordance with their respective mine plans, together with the cessation of high-grade copper production from Reed following its closure. Unit operating costs for all Manitoba mines for the fourth quarter of 2018 increased by 15% compared to the same period in 2017 for the reasons described below.

Ore mined at 777 in the fourth quarter of 2018 increased by 21%, compared to the same period last year. The higher production is attributable to improved availability of the scoop and truck fleet, and a focus on increasing the key performance indicators in the drilling, blasting and backfilling processes. Lower unit operating costs in the fourth quarter were driven by higher volumes.

Ore mined at Lalor in the fourth quarter of 2018 decreased by 5% compared to the same period last year. As anticipated, the factors affecting production in the third quarter constrained production in the fourth quarter; however, the Lalor production ramp up to 4,500 tonnes per day is expected to be realized in 2019. The Lalor pastefill plant has been performing well, which has resulted in a step change in the backfilling process. Higher unit operating costs reflect production constraints as well as costs associated with the ramp up to 4,500 tonnes per day.

The Reed mine produced its last ore in August and processing of Reed ore was completed in early September. Closure activities at Reed mine were completed in October, with all equipment removed from site. Reclamation work is planned to continue in 2019.

Total ore mined at our Manitoba operations during the full year was 8% lower than 2017. Copper and zinc grades for the full year in 2018 were lower than 2017 by 12% and 13%, respectively, while gold and silver grades were 7% and 10% higher, respectively, which is in line with mine plan expectations. Total mine unit costs for the full year were 16% higher than 2017 as a result of lower ore production, costs associated with Lalor’s ramp up and higher maintenance and rehabilitation costs.

Based on year end results, our Manitoba business unit achieved copper and zinc production guidance and costs were within guidance expectations, as revised in the second quarter of 2018. Precious metals production reflected our updated strategy of mining the Lalor gold zones at a later date to achieve higher recoveries with the New Britannia gold mill.

17

 

Processing Facilities

          Three months ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
          2018     2017     2018     2017  
Flin Flon Concentrator                              
     Ore   tonnes     259,569     402,240     1,423,744     1,602,688  
     Copper   %     1.73     2.06     1.90     2.12  
     Zinc   %     3.55     4.50     3.71     4.08  
     Gold   g/tonne     1.62     1.89     1.63     1.65  
     Silver   g/tonne     24.79     25.78     23.48     21.69  
     Copper concentrate   tonnes     16,618     34,308     107,972     132,278  
     Concentrate grade   % Cu     24.42     22.54     23.11     23.81  
     Zinc concentrate   tonnes     15,510     29,987     89,289     109,451  
     Concentrate grade   % Zn     49.75     50.76     49.74     51.28  
     Copper recovery   %     90.4     93.3     92.3     92.6  
     Zinc recovery   %     83.7     84.1     84.2     85.9  
     Gold recovery   %     62.8     65.3     64.5     62.2  
     Silver recovery   %     54.8     61.9     60.2     58.9  
Contained metal in concentrate produced                              
     Copper   tonnes     4,059     7,734     24,947     31,488  
     Zinc   tonnes     7,717     15,222     44,415     56,128  
     Precious metals1   oz     10,116     18,916     57,227     62,357  
Stall Concentrator                              
     Ore   tonnes     313,995     267,636     1,201,466     1,102,034  
     Copper   %     0.84     0.71     0.72     0.65  
     Zinc   %     6.83     7.28     6.38     7.76  
     Gold   g/tonne     2.09     2.26     2.15     1.91  
     Silver   g/tonne     24.58     25.14     25.27     22.85  
     Copper concentrate   tonnes     11,498     8,492     37,047     29,362  
     Concentrate grade   % Cu     20.39     18.89     20.04     20.18  
     Zinc concentrate   tonnes     38,296     34,708     139,268     152,766  
     Concentrate grade   % Zn     51.42     51.38     51.10     51.73  
     Copper recovery   %     88.6     84.5     85.7     82.4  
     Zinc recovery   %     91.9     91.6     92.8     92.4  
     Gold recovery   %     57.1     58.6     57.6     56.3  
     Silver recovery   %     60.7     58.7     59.2     56.2  
Contained metal in concentrate produced                              
     Copper   tonnes     2,345     1,604     7,425     5,923  
     Zinc   tonnes     19,691     17,833     71,173     79,028  
     Precious metals1   oz     14,184     13,234     55,961     44,561  

1 Precious metals production includes gold and silver production on a gold-equivalent basis. Silver is converted to gold at a ratio of 70:1.

18

 
          Three months ended     Year ended     Guidance  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Annual  
Unit Operating Costs1         2018     2017     2018     2017     2018     2019  
Concentrators                                          
     Flin Flon   C$/tonne     35.13     20.68     25.29     19.26              
     Stall   C$/tonne     27.23     29.09     26.71     29.63              
Combined mine/mill unit operating costs2,4                                          
     Manitoba   C$/tonne     143     125     130     118     125 - 1353     115 - 135  

1 Reflects costs per tonne of milled ore.

2 Reflects combined mine, mill and G&A costs per tonne of milled ore. Includes the cost of ore purchased from our joint venture partner at Reed mine.

3 Initial 2018 guidance for Manitoba unit operating costs was C$110 - 123 per tonne.

4 Combined unit costs is a non-IFRS financial performance measure with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.

Ore processed in Flin Flon in the fourth quarter of 2018 was 35% lower than the same period in 2017. The lower processing volumes are a result of the Reed mine closure, and sustained improvements at the Stall concentrator resulting in less ore transported to Flin Flon for processing, partially offset by increased ore from the 777 mine.

Copper recoveries in the fourth quarter of 2018 were 3% lower compared with the same period in 2017, while zinc recoveries were consistent, and gold and silver recoveries were 4% and 11% lower, respectively. Unit operating costs at the Flin Flon concentrator were significantly higher in the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to the same period in 2017 as a result of lower processed volumes.

Ore processed was 17% higher and copper recoveries were 5% higher at the Stall concentrator in the fourth quarter of 2018 compared with the same period in 2017, as a result of ongoing operational and maintenance improvements and better metallurgical understanding of the Lalor ore. Unit operating costs at the Stall concentrator were 6% lower in the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to the same period in 2017 as a result of increased throughput. The throughput improvements have resulted in the drawing down of ore inventories to normal working levels.

Ore processed for the full year in 2018 in Flin Flon was 11% lower than 2017 as a result of combined mine output. Copper recoveries were consistent year over year and zinc recoveries were 2% lower in 2018 compared to 2017, as a result of lower head grades. Gold and silver recoveries for the full year were 4% and 2% higher, respectively, compared to 2017. Full year unit operating costs at the Flin Flon concentrator were 31% higher than 2017 as a result of higher overall maintenance costs driven by aging infrastructure and equipment, increased material handling costs realized in the first half of 2018 related to colder than typical weather, and lower volumes from the mines. Ore processed for the full year in 2018 at Stall was 9% higher, and recoveries for all metals at the Stall concentrator were higher than 2017. Full year unit operating costs at the Stall concentrator were 10% lower than 2017, primarily as a result of higher production and improved mill reliability.

Manitoba combined mine, mill and G&A unit operating costs in the fourth quarter and full year in 2018 were 14% and 10% higher, respectively, than in the same periods in 2017 due mainly to Reed closure, higher 777 and Lalor mining costs and Flin Flon mill maintenance.

19

 
          Three months ended     Year ended     Guidance  
Manitoba contained                                          
   metal in concentrate         Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Annual  
   produced1,2         2018     2017     2018     2017     2018 1     2019  
     Copper   tonnes     6,404     9,338     32,372     37,411     27,500 - 32,500     22,000 - 25,000  
     Gold   oz     20,529     27,389     95,693     91,014              
     Silver   oz     263,937     333,272     1,224,610     1,113,250              
     Zinc   tonnes     27,408     33,055     115,588     135,156     105,000 - 130,000     100,000 - 115,000  
Precious metals3   oz     24,300     32,150     113,188     106,918     120,000 - 145,000     105,000 - 125,000  

1 Includes 100% of Reed mine production.
2 Metal reported in concentrate is prior to deductions associated with smelter terms.
3 Precious metals production includes gold and silver production on a gold-equivalent basis. Silver is converted to gold at a ratio of 70:1.

In the fourth quarter of 2018, copper, gold, and silver production was 31%, 25%, and 21% lower, respectively, compared to the same period in 2017. Zinc production was 17% lower compared to the same period in 2017 as a result of lower grades at Lalor and 777, in line with their respective mine plans. The Reed mine closure in August 2018 affected contained copper production compared to the fourth quarter of 2017.

Production of copper and zinc metals met full year 2018 guidance. Precious metal production reflected our updated strategy of mining the Lalor gold zones at a later date to achieve higher recoveries with the New Britannia gold mill, as previously announced.

Zinc Plant

          Three months ended     Year ended     Guidance  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Annual  
Zinc Production         2018     2017     2018     2017     2018     2019  
Zinc Concentrate Treated                                          
     Domestic   tonnes     59,838     59,302     220,960     223,973              
Refined Metal Produced                                          
     Domestic   tonnes     26,885     27,794     102,053     107,946     100,000 - 115,000     95,000 - 105,000  

20

 
          Three months ended     Year ended     Guidance  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Annual  
Unit Operating Costs         2018     2017     2018     2017     2018     2019  
     Zinc Plant 1,2   C$/lb     0.49     0.43     0.50     0.43     0.40 - 0.50     0.47 - 0.55  

1 Zinc unit operating costs include G&A costs.

2 Zinc unit costs is a non-IFRS financial performance measure with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.

Production of cast zinc in the fourth quarter of 2018 was consistent with the same period in 2017 while operating costs per pound of zinc metal produced were 14% higher as a result of increased maintenance costs. Operating costs per pound of zinc metal produced for the full year in 2018 were 16% higher compared to 2017 for the same reasons stated above. Refined zinc metal production and zinc plant unit operating costs were within guidance ranges for 2018.

Manitoba Cash Cost and Sustaining Cash Cost

          Three months ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
          2018     2017     2018     2017  
Cost per pound of copper produced                              
Cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by- product credits 1 $ /lb     (0.87 )   (1.42 )   (0.64 )   (0.59 )
Sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits 1 $ /lb     1.55     (0.35 )   0.96     0.23  
                               
Cost per pound of zinc produced                              
Cash cost per pound of zinc produced, net of by- product credits 1 $ /lb     0.75     0.29     0.46     0.20  
Sustaining cash cost per pound of zinc produced, net of by-product credits 1 $ /lb     1.31     0.59     0.91     0.43  

1 Cash cost and sustaining cash cost per pound of copper & zinc produced, net of by-product credits, are not recognized under IFRS. For more detail on this non-IFRS financial performance measure, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Performance Measures" section of this MD&A.

In Manitoba, cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, in the fourth quarter and full year 2018 were negative $0.87 and negative $0.64 per pound of copper produced, respectively. These costs were higher compared to the same period in 2017, primarily as a result of lower production due to the Reed mine closure.

Sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, in the fourth quarter of 2018 was $1.55, which is higher than the prior year period due to higher cash costs and higher sustaining capital expenditures. Sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced, net of by-product credits, increased by $0.73 for the full year 2018, compared to 2017, as a result of increased capital development expenditures at Lalor and planned increased sustaining and exploration capital spending.

Cash cost and sustaining cash cost per pound of zinc produced, net of by-product credits, in the fourth quarter and full year 2018 were both higher compared to the same periods last year as a result of the same cost factors and capital spending described above, combined with decreased zinc production and lower copper by-product revenue.

21

 

Metal Sold

          Three months ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
          2018     2017     2018     2017  
Payable metal in concentrate                              
     Copper   tonnes     5,098     7,252     31,474     37,253  
     Gold   oz     18,599     26,779     92,677     97,306  
     Silver   oz     236,744     291,723     1,116,653     1,109,376  
     Zinc   tonnes     5,259     7,138     12,593     12,701  
                               
Refined zinc   tonnes     25,875     25,180     103,130     103,676  

22

 

OUTLOOK

This outlook includes forward-looking information about our operations and financial expectations based on our expectations and outlook as of February 19, 2019. This outlook, including expected results and targets, is subject to various risks, uncertainties and assumptions, which may impact future performance and our achievement of the results and targets discussed in this section. For additional information on forward-looking information, refer to the "Forward-Looking Information" section of this MD&A. We may update our outlook depending on changes in metals prices and other factors. In addition to this section, refer to the "Operations Review" and "Financial Review" sections for additional details on our outlook for 2019. For information on our sensitivity to metals prices, refer below to the "Commodity Markets" and "Sensitivity Analysis" sections of this MD&A.

Material Assumptions

Our production and operating cost guidance, along with our capital and exploration expenditure forecasts for 2019 are discussed in detail below.

Production Guidance

                Year ended        
Contained Metal in Concentrate1         2019 Guidance     Dec. 31, 2018     2018 Guidance  
Manitoba2                        
Copper   tonnes     22,000 - 25,000     32,372     27,500 - 32,500  
Zinc   tonnes     100,000 - 115,000     115,588     105,000 - 130,000  
Precious metals3   oz     105,000 - 125,000     113,188     120,000 - 145,000  
                         
Peru                        
Copper   tonnes     100,000 - 125,000     122,178     95,000 - 115,000  
Precious metals3   oz     45,000 - 55,000     63,187     50,000 - 70,0004  
Molybdenum   tonnes     1,100 - 1,200     904     —  
                         
Total                        
Copper   tonnes     122,000 - 150,000     154,550     122,500 - 147,500  
Zinc   tonnes     100,000 - 115,000     115,588     105,000 - 130,000  
Precious metals3   oz     150,000 - 180,000     176,375     170,000 - 215,000  
Molybdenum   tonnes     1,100 - 1,200     904     —  

1 Metal reported in concentrate is prior to refining losses or deductions associated with smelter terms.
2 2018 figures include 100% of Reed mine production; Hudbay owned a 70% interest in the Reed mine.
3 Precious metals production includes gold and silver production on a gold-equivalent basis. Silver converted to gold at a ratio of 70:1.
4 Initial 2018 guidance for Constancia precious metals production was 65,000 to 85,000 ounces

On a consolidated basis, Hudbay’s copper production exceeded 2018 guidance and production of zinc and precious metals were within 2018 guidance ranges. Production of copper benefited from increased throughput and recoveries at Constancia despite expected lower grades year-over-year. Zinc production declined over 2017 levels due to lower zinc grades at both Lalor and 777.

In 2019, production of copper contained in concentrate is forecast to decrease by approximately 12%1 compared to 2018 production, primarily due to the closure of the Reed mine in 2018 and slightly lower copper grades at Constancia in line with the mine plan. Production of zinc contained in concentrate in 2019 is forecast to decrease by approximately 7%1 compared to 2018 production, due to lower zinc grades at the 777 and Lalor mines, in line with their respective mine plans. Lalor mine ramp-up is on track to reach a nominal 4,500 tonnes per day in 2019 as a result of several recent initiatives including increased drill inventory, improved paste backfill availability, engagement of third party contractors and higher planned equipment utilization.

23

 

Production of precious metals contained in concentrate in 2019 is forecast to slightly decrease by approximately 6%1 compared to 2018 production, primarily due to marginally lower precious metals grades at Constancia. Manitoba precious metals production reflects the optimization of the Lalor mine plan to prioritize base metal ore in the near term, and defer certain areas of high-grade gold and copper-gold ore until the planned restart of the New Britannia mill in 2022, as recently announced.

Peru precious metals production has the potential to be higher than the stated guidance levels in 2019 if the land access agreement related to the Pampacancha deposit is in place by the end of May 2019. Negotiations with the community to secure surface rights over the Pampacancha deposit are progressing, following the election of a new community council in the fourth quarter of 2018.

Capital Expenditure Guidance

Capital Expenditures1         Year ended        
(in $ millions)   2019 Guidance     Dec. 31, 2018     2018 Guidance  
Sustaining capital                  
Manitoba   100.0     104.4     85.0  
Peru2   95.0     40.0     50.0  
Total sustaining capital   195.0     144.4     135.0  
Growth capital                  
Manitoba   10.0     18.1     20.0  
Peru3   45.0     2.3     —  
Arizona   20.0     19.7     35.0  
Total growth capital   75.0     40.1     55.0  
Capitalized exploration   15.0     11.7     10.0  
Total capital expenditures   285.0     196.2     200.0  

1 Excludes capitalized interest.
2 Includes capitalized stripping costs.
3 Initial 2018 guidance for Peru growth capital expenditures was $45.0 million. This included expenditures for developing the Pampacancha deposit and acquiring surface rights which, as previously announced, was deferred to 2019.

Total planned sustaining capital expenditures in 2019 are expected to increase by approximately 35% from 2018 levels. The increase is mainly due to an approximate $55 million increase in spending in Peru from 2018 levels, as a major raise of the Constancia tailings management facility is expected in 2019, in line with the NI 43-101 Technical Report filed in March 2018. Planned sustaining capital expenditures in Manitoba include continued drilling of the gold and copper-gold zones at Lalor and elevated spending on tailings management facilities in 2019 to implement upgrades and provide increased storage capacity.

Manitoba growth capital spending of $10 million includes a feasibility study and early works to advance the refurbishment of the New Britannia gold mill and our Lalor gold strategy.

1 Year-over-year forecast changes assume the mid- point of the respective 2019 guidance range is achieved.

24

 

Peru growth capital of $45 million includes initial expenditures for developing the Pampacancha deposit and acquiring surface rights from the local community. This spending is expected to be reduced if a land access agreement related to the Pampacancha deposit is not in place by the end of May 2019. Arizona spending of $20 million on the Rosemont project is intended to support ongoing permitting, legal and mitigation efforts, and would increase significantly if permitting is completed and early works on the project commence during 2019.

Exploration Guidance

Hudbay continues to grow its exploration portfolio of owned or optioned mineral properties which now consists of approximately 885,000 hectares across Canada, Peru, the United States and Chile. Hudbay’s 2019 exploration budget of $40 million, which includes option payments, will be focused on exploration near existing processing infrastructure in Manitoba and Peru, as well as exploration properties in Nevada, Chile and British Columbia.

In January 2018, Hudbay acquired control of a large, contiguous block of mineral rights to explore for mineable deposits within trucking distance of the Constancia processing facility, including the past producing Caballito property and the highly prospective Maria Reyna and Kusiorcco properties. Hudbay has commenced permitting, community relations and technical activities required to access and conduct drilling activities on these properties and has been successful in reaching a community agreement covering two of the properties to date with plans to drill those properties in 2019. In Manitoba, we expect to conduct more underground drilling at Lalor to support the long-term gold strategy in Snow Lake as well as several regional greenfield exploration drill targets in an attempt to expand both our base metal and gold resource base.

Hudbay acquired the Ann Mason property at the end of the fourth quarter of 2018 through the acquisition of Mason Resources Corp. Exploration activities at Ann Mason over 2019 will consist of geological mapping, geochemical sampling and geophysical surveys, as well as diamond drilling to identify potential sources of high grade mineralization that could enhance the feed grade in the early years of a future milling operation.

Exploration Expenditures         Year ended        
(in $ millions)   2019 Guidance     Dec. 31, 2018     2018 Guidance  
Peru   20.0     15.6     20.0  
Manitoba   10.0     14.1     15.0  
Generative and other   10.0     10.6     15.0  
Total exploration expenditures   40.0     40.3     50.0  
Capitalized spending   (15.0 )1   (11.7 )   (10.0 )
Total exploration expense   25.0     28.6     40.0  

1 2019 guidance assumes exploration expenditures of $5 million and $10 million for Manitoba and Peru, respectively, will be capitalized.

Unit Operating Cost Guidance

Combined Mine/Mill Unit Operating               Year ended        
Cost1,2         2019 Guidance     Dec. 31, 2018     2018 Guidance  
Manitoba   C$/tonne     115 - 135     130     125 - 1353  
Peru $ /tonne     7.90 - 9.70     9.444     7.50 - 9.20  

1 Reflects combined mine, mill and G&A costs per tonne of milled ore. Manitoba 2018 figures include the cost of ore purchased from our joint venture partner at the Reed mine. Peru costs reflect the deduction of expected capitalized stripping costs.
2 Combined unit costs is a non-IFRS financial performance measure with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.
3 Initial 2018 guidance for Manitoba unit operating costs was C$110 - 123 per tonne.
4 Excluding molybdenum plant costs, combined unit costs for the full year were $9.17 per tonne.

25

 

In 2018, combined unit costs for Manitoba were in line with revised guidance expectations. In Peru, the combined unit costs were above the guidance range primarily due to substantially increased utilization of the molybdenum plant, which contributed to higher unit costs but reduced Peru cash costs due to higher by-product revenue. Peru unit costs were also affected by the accrual for signing bonuses for the three-year collective bargaining agreement agreed to earlier in 2018.

Combined unit costs for Manitoba in 2019 are forecast to be slightly lower2 than 2018 unit costs of approximately C$130 per tonne which reflects the closure of the Reed mine, declining ore production at the 777 mine, costs for trucking ore from Lalor to the Flin Flon concentrator for processing and the cost of additional contracted labour at Lalor. Combined unit costs for Peru in 2019 are expected to be approximately 7%2 lower than 2018 unit costs as a result of operating efficiencies and the impact of a one-time accrual in 2018 for signing bonuses for the three-year collective bargaining agreement. 2019 Peru unit costs and molybdenum production guidance also reflect expected high utilization rates of the molybdenum plant.

Metal production in any particular quarter may vary from the implied annual guidance rate based on variations in grades and recoveries due to the areas mined in that quarter, the timing of planned maintenance, and other factors. Mining and processing costs in any particular quarter can also vary from the annual guidance rate above based on a variety of factors, including the scheduling of maintenance events and seasonal heating requirements, particularly in Manitoba.

                Year ended        
Flin Flon Zinc Plant Guidance         2019 Guidance     Dec. 31, 2018     2018 Guidance  
Zinc metal produced   tonnes     95,000 - 105,000     102,053     100,000-115,000  
Unit operating costs1   C$/lb     0.47 - 0.55     0.50     0.40 - 0.50  

1 Unit costs are non-IFRS financial performance measures with no standardized definition under IFRS. For further information and a detailed reconciliation, please see the discussion under the "Non-IFRS Financial Reporting Measures" section of this MD&A.

Zinc plant production and costs in 2019 reflect a planned maintenance shutdown to support continued operation of the zinc plant through 2021.

Commodity Markets

Our 2019 operational and financial performance will be influenced by a number of factors. At the macro-level, the general performance of the Chinese, North American and global economies will influence the demand for our products. The realized prices we achieve in the commodity markets significantly affect our performance. Our general expectations regarding metals prices and foreign exchange rates are included below and in the “Sensitivity Analysis” section of this MD&A.

In addition to our production, financial performance is directly affected by a number of factors, including metals prices, foreign exchange rates, and input costs, including energy prices. Average prices for copper and zinc declined significantly in 2018 as concerns about the trade dispute between the U.S. and China, and the resulting drag on Chinese economic growth, outweighed supportive fundamentals in the physical copper and zinc markets.

We have developed the following market analysis from various information sources including analyst and industry experts.

Copper

In 2018, the London Metal Exchange (“LME”) copper price averaged $2.96 per pound ("/lb"), with prices ranging between $2.61/lb and $3.33/lb. Copper refined metal markets experienced a modest deficit in 2018 that increased compared to a small deficit in 2017, as mine supply growth lagged copper demand growth.

2 Year-over-year forecasted changes to unit costs assume the mid-point of the 2019 guidance range is achieved.

26

 

In 2019, global copper mine supply is forecast to be largely unchanged from 2018 with limited new mine supply to offset declining overall grades, while demand growth, even at lower rates than in 2018, is expected to cause the copper market deficit to increase further in 2019 compared to 2018.

We believe current copper prices remain at levels that are too low to incentivize sufficient investments in new copper production to meet anticipated demand. New copper production will be needed to replace mine depletion and progressively lower mine grades globally. As a result, with growing physical market deficits and assuming continued global and Chinese economic growth, significantly higher copper prices are anticipated over the next five years.

Zinc

In 2018, the LME zinc price averaged $1.33/lb, with prices ranging from $1.04/lb to $1.64/lb. Zinc market deficits that have been in place for several years continued to grow in 2018, with the refined metal deficit estimated to reach 8% of global demand. Zinc demand in China and globally saw modest growth in 2018, but zinc metal production was constrained by limited concentrate supply and environmental restrictions on Chinese smelters. While zinc concentrate availability has improved as a result of the start-up of several new mines, refined metal production will need to increase substantially in 2019 to meet even modest demand growth. The deficits over the past few years have reduced global inventories of zinc metal to historically low levels, so if smelters are unable to achieve planned production growth due to environmental constraints in China or due to other factors, metal scarcity could result in significantly higher prices. Over the medium term, growth in new zinc mine supply and smelter output is expected to enable the zinc market to balance and rebuild depleted stockpiles.

Sensitivity Analysis

The following table displays the estimated impact of changes in metals prices and foreign exchange rates on our 2019 net profit, earnings per share and operating cash flow, assuming that our operational performance is consistent with our guidance for 20195.The effects of a given change in an assumption are isolated.

    2019     Change of 10%     Impact on     Impact on     Impact on Operating CF  
    Base     represented by:     Profit     EPS1     before WC changes  
Metals Prices                              
Copper price   US$3.00/lb     +/- US$0.30/lb     +/- US$53M     +/- 0.20     +/- US$56M  
Zinc price   US$1.20/lb     +/- US$0.12/lb     +/- US$16M     +/- 0.06     +/- US$25M  
Gold price2   US$1,250/oz     +/- US$125/oz     +/- US$7M     +/- 0.03     +/- US$9M  
                               
Exchange Rates 3                              
C$/US$   1.30     +/- 0.13     +/- US$33M     +/- 0.13     +/- US$28M  

1 Based on 261.3 million common shares outstanding as at December 31, 2018.
2 Gold price sensitivity also includes an impact of a +/- 10% change in the silver price (2019 assumption: $16.50/oz of silver).
3 Change in profit from operational performance only, does not include change in profit arising from translation of balance sheet accounts.
4 Quotational period hedging program neutralizes provisional pricing adjustments

5 Year-over-year forecasted changes to unit costs assume the mid-point of the 2019 guidance range is achieved.

27

 

FINANCIAL REVIEW

Financial Results

In the fourth quarter of 2018, we recorded a net loss of $3.5 million compared to a profit of $94.3 million for the same period in 2017, a decrease in profit of $97.8 million.

For the full year in 2018, we recorded a net profit of $85.4 million compared to net profit of $139.7 million in 2017, a decrease in profit of $54.3 million. The following table provides further details on these variances:

    Three months ended     Year ended  
(in $ millions)   December 31, 2018     December 31, 2018  
(Decrease) increase in components of profit or loss:            
     Revenues   (72.6 )   70.1  
     Cost of sales            
           Mine operating costs   8.7     (70.2 )
           Depreciation and amortization   (5.8 )   (35.2 )
     Net finance expense   2.3     51.6  
     Exploration   (0.2 )   (13.1 )
     Other   5.7     (5.3 )
     Tax   (35.9 )   (52.2 )
(Decrease) increase in profit in 2018 compared to 2017   (97.8 )   (54.3 )

Revenue

Revenue for the fourth quarter of 2018 was $351.8 million, $72.6 million lower than the same period in 2017, primarily as a result of lower metal prices for most commodities, and lower copper, zinc and gold sales volumes, partially offset by higher gold prices and higher silver sales volumes.

Full year revenue in 2018 was $1,472.4 million, $70.1 million higher than 2017, due to significantly higher realized sales prices for all commodities and higher sales volumes for precious metals.

28

 
    Three months ended     Year ended  
(in $ millions)   December 31, 2018     December 31, 2018  
             
Metals prices1            
(Lower) higher copper prices   (25.6 )   36.2  
(Lower) higher zinc prices   (19.4 )   2.7  
Higher gold prices   5.4     9.1  
(Lower) higher silver prices   (1.8 )   0.4  
Sales volumes            
(Lower) higher copper sales volumes   (39.3 )   (4.6 )
(Lower) zinc sales volumes   (4.0 )   (1.9 )
(Lower) higher gold sales volumes   (6.1 )   2.8  
Higher silver sales volumes   2.6     8.5  
Other            
Higher (lower) derivative mark-to-market gains   1.4     0.2  
Molybdenum volume and pricing differences   10.6     12.9  
Other volume and pricing differences   —     (0.4 )
Effect of lower treatment and refining charges   3.6     4.2  
             
(Decrease) increase in revenue in 2018 compared to 2017   (72.6 )   70.1  

1 See discussion below for further information regarding metals prices.

Our revenue by significant product type is summarized below:

    Three months ended     Year ended  
    Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
(in $ millions)   2018     2017     2018     2017  
Copper   225.9     280.9     963.1     927.0  
Zinc   86.5     106.4     357.4     347.7  
Gold   33.4     34.4     149.0     137.3  
Silver   21.4     20.8     85.8     76.9  
Molybdenum   11.9     1.4     21.0     9.4  
Other metals   1.4     1.3     4.7     5.0  
Gross revenue   380.5     445.2     1,581.0     1,503.3  
Pricing and volume adjustments1   (1.3 )   10.2     (6.7 )   5.1  
Treatment and refining charges   (27.4 )   (31.0 )   (101.9 )   (106.1 )
Revenue   351.8     424.4     1,472.4     1,402.3  

1 Pricing and volume adjustments represents mark-to-market adjustments on provisionally prices sales, realized and unrealized changes to fair value for non-hedge derivative contracts and adjustments to originally invoiced weights and assays.

29

 

Realized sales prices

This measure is intended to enable management and investors to understand the average realized price of metals sold to third parties in each reporting period. The average realized price per unit sold does not have any standardized meaning prescribed by IFRS, is unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers, and should not be considered in isolation or a substitute for measures of performance prepared in accordance with IFRS.

For sales of copper, gold and silver we may enter into non-hedge derivatives (“QP hedges”) which are intended to manage the provisional pricing risk arising from quotational period terms in concentrate sales agreements. The QP hedges are not removed from the calculation of realized prices. We expect that gains and losses on QP hedges will offset provisional pricing adjustments on concentrate sales contracts.

Our realized prices for the fourth quarter and full year in 2018 and 2017, respectively, are summarized below:

                Realized prices1 for the           Realized prices1 for the  
                Three months ended           Year ended  
          LME QTD     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     LME YTD     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
          20182     2018     20173     20182     2018     20173  
Prices                                          
     Copper $ /lb     2.80     2.77     3.13     2.96     2.93     2.82  
     Zinc4 $ /lb     1.19     1.25     1.53     1.33     1.39     1.38  
     Gold5 $ /oz           1,554     1,190           1,359     1,272  
     Silver5 $ /oz           22.50     24.83           25.52     25.09  
     Molybdenum $ /lb           12.17     9.47           12.06     8.23  

1 Realized prices exclude refining and treatment charges and are on the sale of finished metal or metal in concentrate. Realized prices include the effect of provisional pricing adjustments on prior period sales.
2 London Metal Exchange average for copper and zinc prices.
3 Gold and silver realized prices for 2017 have been restated due to IFRS 15 impacts. Please refer to note 4 of the financial statements for further information.
4 This amount includes a realized sales price of $1.27 and $1.41 for cast zinc metal and $1.19 and $1.25 for zinc concentrate sold for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018, respectively. Zinc realized prices include premiums paid by customers for delivery of refined zinc metal, but exclude unrealized gains and losses related to non-hedge derivative contracts that are included in zinc revenues.
5 Sales of gold and silver from our 777 and Constancia mines are subject to our precious metals stream agreement with Wheaton Precious Metals, pursuant to which we recognize deferred revenue for precious metals deliveries and also receive cash payments. Stream sales are included within realized prices and their respective deferred revenue and cash payment rates can be found on page 33.

30

 

31

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of average realized price per unit sold, by metal, to revenues as shown in the consolidated financial statements.

 Three months ended December 31, 2018     
                                           
(in $ millions) 1   Copper     Zinc     Gold     Silver     Molybdenum     Other     Total  
Revenue per financial statements   225.9     86.5     33.4     21.4     11.9     1.4     380.5  
Pricing and volume adjustments2   (4.2 )   (0.3 )   3.0     0.1     0.1     —     (1.3 )
Derivative mark-to-market and other3   —     (0.3 )   3.8     (1.0 )   —     —     2.5  
Revenue, excluding mark-to-market on non-QP hedges   221.7     85.9     40.2     20.5     12.0     1.4     381.7  
Payable metal in concentrate sold 4   36,350     31,134     25,861     909,500     447     —     —  
Realized price 5,6   6,098     2,760     1,554     22.50     26,833     —     —  
Realized price 7   2.77     1.25     —     —     12.17     —     —  

 Twelve months ended December 31, 2018     
                                           
(in $ millions) 1   Copper     Zinc     Gold     Silver     Molybdenum     Other     Total  
Revenue per financial statements   963.1     357.4     149.0     85.8     21.0     4.7     1,581.0  
Pricing and volume adjustments2   (6.4 )   (3.5 )   2.5     (0.1 )   0.8     —     (6.7 )
Derivative mark-to-market and other3   —     0.7     2.2     0.4     —     —     3.3  
Revenue, excluding mark-to-market on non-QP hedges   956.7     354.6     153.7     86.1     21.8     4.7     1,577.6  
Payable metal in concentrate sold 4   147,923     115,723     113,097     3,372,353     819     —     —  
Realized price 5,6   6,468     3,065     1,359     25.52     26,592     —     —  
Realized price 7   2.93     1.39     —     —     12.06     —     —  

 Three months ended December 31, 2017     
                                           
(in $ millions) 1   Copper     Zinc     Gold     Silver     Molybdenum     Other     Total  
Revenue per financial statements   280.9     106.4     34.4     20.8     1.4     1.3     445.2  
Pricing and volume adjustments2   5.7     1.8     2.7     (0.1 )   —     0.1     10.2  
Derivative mark-to-market and other3   —     1.1     —     —         —     1.1  
Revenue, excluding mark-to-market on non-QP hedges   286.6     109.3     37.1     20.7     1.4     1.4     456.5  
Payable metal in concentrate sold 4   41,479     32,318     31,221     835,486     68     —     —  
Realized price 5,6   6,909     3,381     1,190     24.83     20,878     —     —  
Realized price 7   3.13     1.53     —     —     9.47     —     —  

 Twelve months ended December 31, 2017     
                                           
(in $ millions) 1   Copper     Zinc     Gold     Silver     Molybdenum     Other     Total  
Revenue per financial statements   927.0     347.7     137.3     76.9     9.4     5.0     1,503.3  
Pricing and volume adjustments2   (1.9 )   5.2     2.3     (0.1 )   (0.5 )   0.1     5.1  
Derivative mark-to-market and other3   —     0.9     —     —     —     —     0.9  
Revenue, excluding mark-to-market on non-QP hedges   925.1     353.8     139.6     76.8     8.9     5.1     1,509.3  
Payable metal in concentrate sold 4   148,655     116,377     109,770     3,060,269     491     —     —  
Realized price 5,6   6,223     3,041     1,272     25.09     18,148     —     —  
Realized price 7   2.82     1.38     —     —     8.23     —     —  

1 Average realized price per unit sold may not calculate based on amounts presented in this table due to rounding.
2 Pricing and volume adjustments represents mark-to-market adjustments on provisionally priced sales, realized and unrealized changes to fair value for non-hedge derivative contracts and adjustments to originally invoiced weights and assays.
3 Derivative mark-to-market excludes mark-to-market on QP hedges.
4 Copper and zinc shown in metric tonnes and gold and silver shown in ounces.
5 Realized price for copper and zinc in $/metric tonne and realized price for gold and silver in $/oz.
6 Gold and Silver realized prices for 2017 have been restated due to IFRS 15 impacts. Refer to note 4 of the financial statements for details.
7 Realized price for copper and zinc in $/lb.

32

 

The price, quantity and mix of metals sold, affect our revenue, operating cash flow and profit. Revenue from metals sales can vary from quarter to quarter due to production levels, shipping volumes and transfer of risk and title to customers.

Stream Sales

The following table shows stream sales included within realized prices and their respective deferred revenue and cash payment rates:

          Three months ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2018  
          Manitoba     Peru     Manitoba     Peru  
Gold   oz     4,353     3,645     19,217     12,044  
Silver   oz     129,268     628,936     515,183     2,180,098  
Gold deferred revenue drawdown rate1,2 $ /oz     1,241     967     1,262     967  
Gold cash rate3 $ /oz     416     400     414     400  
Silver deferred revenue drawdown rate1,2 $ /oz     24.22     21.79     24.54     21.79  
Silver cash rate3 $ /oz     6.14     5.90     6.11     5.90  

          Three months ended     Year ended  
          Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2017  
          Manitoba     Peru     Manitoba     Peru  
Gold 4   oz     6,568     2,212     24,479     8,842  
Silver 4   oz     124,484     539,135     526,648     1,924,220  
Gold deferred revenue drawdown rate1, 5 $ /oz     1,290     1,013     1,272     1,013  
Gold cash rate 3 $ /oz     412     400     410     400  
Silver deferred revenue drawdown rate1, 5 $ /oz     25.16     21.53     24.59     21.53  
Silver cash rate 3 $ /oz     6.08     5.90     6.05     5.90  

1 Deferred revenue amortization is recorded in Manitoba at C$1,635/oz and C$31.88/oz for gold and silver, respectively, and converted to US dollars at the exchange rate in effect at the time of revenue recognition.
2 Deferred revenue drawdown rates for gold and silver do not include variable consideration adjustments.
3 The gold and silver cash rate for Manitoba increased by 1% from $400/oz and $5.90/oz effective August 1, 2015. Subsequently every year, on August 1, the cash rate will increase by 1% compounded. The weighted average cash rate is disclosed.
4 Included in both three months ended and year ended December 31, 2017 amounts above, is 3,611 oz of gold and 46,205 oz of silver that did not result in a drawdown of deferred revenue.
5 Gold and silver deferred revenue drawdown rates for 2017 have been restated due to IFRS 15 impacts. Refer to note 4 of the consolidated financial statements for information.

33

 

Cost of Sales

Our detailed cost of sales is summarized as follows:

    Three months ended     Year ended  
    Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
    2018     2017     2018     2017  
(in $ thousands)         (Restated)           (Restated)  
Peru                        
     Mining   21,721     21,334     91,324     61,459  
     Milling   39,590     39,703     150,016     138,502  
     Changes in product inventory   3,453     4,725     (4,141 )   (2,960 )
     Depreciation and amortization   52,510     52,570     211,152     178,700  
     G&A   15,057     17,528     56,358     56,205  
     Freight, royalties and other charges   16,905     13,764     59,642     49,659  
     Total Peru cost of sales   149,236     149,624     564,351     481,565  
Manitoba                        
     Mining   42,825     41,794     165,108     151,994  
     Milling   13,372     12,666     52,544     48,947  
     Zinc plant   18,837     18,458     73,008     67,966  
     Purchased ore and concentrate (before inventory changes)   —     6,156     20,804     21,881  
     Changes in product inventory   2,935     (7,918 )   11,395     (9,919 )
     Depreciation and amortization   29,733     23,842     121,515     118,770  
     G&A   9,392     23,267     46,139     63,645  
     Freight, royalties and other charges   10,217     11,517     43,762     48,349  
     Total Manitoba cost of sales   127,311     129,782     534,275     511,633  
Cost of sales   276,547     279,406     1,098,626     993,198  

Total cost of sales for the fourth quarter of 2018 was $276.5 million, reflecting a decrease of $2.9 million from the fourth quarter of 2017. Cost of sales related to Peru remained relatively consistent for the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to the same period of 2017. In Manitoba, cost of sales decreased by $2.5 million compared to the fourth quarter of 2017 as a result of lower G&A costs due to a $10.4 million pension charge recognized in the fourth quarter of 2017 arising from the new collective bargaining agreement, offset in part by higher depreciation costs and timing of inventory drawdowns.

Cost of sales for the full year in 2018 was $1,098.6 million, an increase of $105.4 million compared to 2017. The increase is mostly attributable to Peru, which increased by $82.8 million, due mainly to higher spending and depreciation arising from higher mine and mill production rates. Also contributing to the increased costs in Peru were the addition of a signing bonus paid in the first quarter of 2018, arising from a new three year collective agreement, costs associated with the move from three to four shifts as per the new collective agreement, and higher consumable costs.

For details on unit operating costs refer to the respective tables in the “Operations Review” section of this MD&A.

For the fourth quarter of 2018, other significant variances in expenses from operations, compared to the same period in 2017, include the following:

–

Selling and administrative expenses decreased by $5.6 million compared to the same period in 2017. The decrease was primarily due to lower stock based compensation charges as a result of the revaluation of previously issued shares to lower share prices during the current quarter compared to the same period last year.

34

 
–

Other operating expenses increased by $11.2 million as the fourth quarter 2017 included gains arising from the Balmat disposition of $6.4 million. In the fourth quarter of 2018, we incurred a non-cash charge of $2.2 million related to a pension de-risking transaction.

   
–

Asset impairment loss of $11.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2017 is the result of revaluing certain processing equipment that was previously purchased to build a new concentrator in Snow Lake, Manitoba to expected disposition proceeds.

For the full year 2018, other significant variances in expenses from operations, compared to 2017, include the following:

–

Selling and administrative expenses decreased by $15.0 million compared to the same period in 2017. The decrease was primarily due to lower stock based compensation charges as a result of the revaluation of previously issued shares to lower share prices during the current year compared to the prior year.
 

–

Exploration expenses increased by $13.1 million compared to the same period in 2017, reflecting our increased funding for brownfield and grassroots exploration in 2018.
 

–

Other operating expenses increased by $31.5 million, primarily due to:
 

–

a $7.2 million obligation in 2018 to deliver additional precious metal credits to Wheaton Precious Metals as a result of our expectation that mining at the Pampacancha deposit will not begin until later in 2019;
 

–

a non-cash charge of $2.2 million in 2018 related to a pension de- risking transaction;
 

–

a prior year recovery of $12.9 million for insurance proceeds related to the Constancia grinding line 2 failure in 2015; and,
 

–

a prior year gain of $6.4 million associated with contingent consideration from the Balmat sale as a result of a project milestone being achieved by the buyer.
 

–

Finance income increased by $5.6 million as a result of higher interest earned in the period from comparably higher cash balances versus the same period in 2017.
 

–

Finance expenses decreased by $17.4 million as a result of lower interest costs incurred over the year reflective of better terms following the amendment of our Credit Facilities signed in July 2018 and a charge taken in 2017 as a result of the extinguishment of an equipment credit facility in Peru.
 

–

Other finance gain increased by $28.5 million as a result of:
 

–

Foreign exchange gains of $11.1 million compared to foreign exchange losses of $15.8 million in 2017, an increase of $26.9 million which is a function of the strengthening US dollar benefiting certain US monetary assets in the Manitoba business unit;
 

–

Mark-to-market gains on warrants of $6.7 million, which expired in July 2018, compared to gains of $1.1 million in the same period last year;
 

–

Gains of $1.5 million from a decrease in fair value of our various financial instrument liabilities subject to fair value accounting, compared to losses of $1.8 million for those same instruments in the same period last year; and,
 

–

Partially offsetting these gains were increased losses of $7.3 million related to fair value adjustments for our portfolio of junior mining equities compared to the same period last year.

Tax Expense (Recovery)

For the three months and the year ended December 31, 2018, tax expense increased by $35.9 million and $52.2 million, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2017. The following table provides further details:

35

 
    Three months ended     Year ended  
    Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
    2018     2017     2018     2017  
(in $ thousands)         (Restated)           (Restated)  
Deferred tax expense (recovery) - income tax 1 $  12,577   $  (42,486 ) $  40,961   $  (16,596 )
Deferred tax expense (recovery) - mining tax 1   326     (405 )   (716 )   (128 )
Total deferred tax expense (recovery)   12,903     (42,891 )   40,245     (16,724 )
Current tax expense - income tax   5,122     19,644     25,245     30,493  
Current tax expense - mining tax   3,135     8,553     19,931     19,450  
Total current tax expense   8,257     28,197     45,176     49,943  
                         
Tax expense (recovery) $  21,160   $  (14,694 ) $  85,421   $  33,219  

1 Deferred tax expense (recovery) represents our draw down/increase of non-cash deferred income and mining tax assets/liabilities.

Income Tax Expense

Applying the estimated Canadian statutory income tax rate of 27.0% to our income before taxes of $170.8 million for the full year in 2018 would have resulted in a tax expense of approximately $46.1 million; however, we recorded an income tax expense of $66.2 million. The significant items causing our effective income tax rate to be different than the 27.0% estimated Canadian statutory income tax rate include:

–

Certain temporary differences with respect to our foreign operations are recorded using an income tax rate other than the Canadian statutory income tax of 27.0%, resulting in an increase in deferred tax expense of $9.6 million; and,

–

Increase in deferred tax expense of approximately $11.4 million since certain Canadian non-monetary assets are recognized at historical cost while the tax bases of the assets change as exchange rates fluctuate, which creates a taxable temporary difference.

Applying the estimated Canadian statutory income tax rate of 27.0% to our income before taxes of $172.9 million for the full year in 2017 would have resulted in a tax expense of approximately $46.7 million; however, we recorded an income tax expense of $13.9 million. The significant items causing our effective income tax rate to be different than the 27.0% estimated Canadian statutory income tax rate include:

–

We revised our computation of deferred tax liabilities related to taxable temporary differences for changes in statutory tax rates taking into account the newly enacted tax legislation in the U.S. that decreased the estimated statutory tax rate of the Arizona business unit from 38.2% to 24.9%, resulting in a deferred tax recovery of $52.9 million;

–

A decrease in the deferred tax expense of $9.4 million due to the fact that certain Canadian non-monetary assets are recognized at historical cost while the tax bases of the assets change as exchange rates fluctuate;

–

Certain deductible temporary differences with respect to Peru mostly relating to decommissioning and restoration liabilities were not recognized as we have determined that it is not probable that we will realize the recovery based on the timing of the reversals of the deductible temporary differences and the future projected taxable profit of the Peru operations, resulting in an increase in deferred tax expense of approximately $10.0 million;

–

Certain deductible temporary differences with respect to Manitoba mostly relating to decommissioning and restoration liabilities were not recognized as we have determined that it is not probable that we will realize the recovery based on the timing of the reversals of the deductible temporary differences and the future projected taxable profit of the Manitoba operations, resulting in an increase in deferred tax expense of approximately $8.8 million; and

–

Certain deductible temporary differences with respect to our foreign operations are recorded using an income tax rate other than the Canadian statutory income tax of 27.0%, resulting in an increase in deferred tax expense of $4.6 million.

36

 

Mining Tax Expense

Applying the estimated Manitoba mining tax rate of 10.0% to our income before taxes of $170.8 million for the full year in 2018 would have resulted in a tax expense of approximately $17.1 million and we recorded a mining tax expense of $19.2 million. Effective mining tax rates can vary significantly based on the composition of our earnings and the expected amount of mining taxable profits. Corporate costs and other costs not related to mining operations are not deductible in computing mining profits. A brief description of how mining taxes are calculated in our various business units is discussed below.

Manitoba

The Province of Manitoba imposes mining tax on profit related to the sale of mineral products mined in the Province of Manitoba (mining taxable profit) at the following rates:

– 10% of total mining taxable profit if mining profit is C$50 million or less;
– 15% of total mining taxable profit if mining profits are between C$55 million and C$100 million; and
– 17% of total mining taxable profit if mining profits exceed C$105 million.

We estimate that the tax rate that will be applicable when temporary differences reverse will be approximately 10.0% .

Peru

The Peruvian government imposes two parallel mining tax regimes, the Special Mining Tax and the Modified Royalty, on companies' operating mining income on a sliding scale, with progressive rates ranging from 2.0% to 8.4% and 1.0% to 12.0%, respectively. Based on financial forecasts, we have recorded a deferred tax liability as at December 31, 2018, at the tax rate we expect to apply when temporary differences reverse.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facilities

We have two revolving credit facilities (the “Credit Facilities”) for our Canadian and Peruvian businesses, with combined total availability of $550 million and substantially similar terms and conditions. As at December 31, 2018, between our Credit Facilities we have drawn $128.5 million in letters of credit, leaving total undrawn availability of $421.5 million. As at December 31, 2018, we were in compliance with our covenants under the Credit Facilities.

Financial Condition

Financial Condition as at December 31, 2018 compared to December 31, 2017

Cash and cash equivalents increased by $159.0 million from December 31, 2017 to $515.5 million as at December 31, 2018. This increase was a result of cash generated from operating activities of $479.6 million. These inflows were partly offset by $190.9 million of capital investments primarily at our Peru and Manitoba operations, interest payments of $74.8 million, finance lease payments of $20.9 million, net financing fees paid of $20.6 million, and $19.1 million of net cash paid to acquire Mason Resources. We hold the majority of our cash and cash equivalents in low-risk, liquid investments with major Canadian and Peruvian financial institutions.

37

 

In addition to the increased cash and cash equivalents position, working capital increased by $193.8 million to $445.2 million from December 31, 2017 to December 31, 2018, primarily due to:

– Trade and other payables decreased by $27.2 million primarily as a result of changes to accruals and timing of spending on mine and mill supplies;
– Other liabilities decreased by $21.4 million primarily as a result of lower stock-based compensation and current pension liabilities;
– Current deferred revenue liabilities decreased by $20.9 million as a result of timing of sales;
– Other financial liabilities decreased by $14.3 million mainly due to more favourable positions for our derivative and warrant liabilities;
– Partially offset by, current receivables decreased by $38.4 million primarily as a result of fair value movements on provisionally priced receivables; and
– Current inventories decreased by $23.2 million primarily as a result of a reclassification of Peru ore stockpiles from current to non- current as a result of updates to the mine plan.

Cash Flows

The following table summarizes our cash flows for the three months and year ended December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

    Three months ended     Year ended  
    Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
(in $ thousands)   2018     2017     2018     2017  
Operating cash flow before changes in non-cash working capital   107,948     171,904     493,471     530,561  
Change in non-cash working capital   29,376     (42,467 )   (13,919 )   9,015  
Cash generated from operating activities   137,324     129,437     479,552     539,576  
Cash (used in) generated by investing activities   (73,762 )   (87,859 )   (202,136 )   (234,264 )
Cash (used in) generated by financing activities   (9,592 )   (9,461 )   (120,354 )   (92,847 )
Effect of movement in exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents   1,664     (4,545 )   1,936     (2,830 )
Increase in cash and cash equivalents   55,634     27,572     158,998     209,635  

Cash Flow from Operating Activities

Cash generated from operating activities was $137.3 million during the fourth quarter of 2018, an increase of $7.9 million compared with the same period last year. Operating cash flow before change in non-cash working capital was $107.9 million during the fourth quarter of 2018, reflecting a decrease of $64.0 million compared to the fourth quarter of 2017. The decrease in operating cash flow is the result of lower realized prices and lower sales volumes of copper and zinc and higher mine operating costs, compared to the fourth quarter of 2017.

Cash generated from operating activities for the full year was $479.6 million in 2018, a decrease of $60.0 million compared to 2017. Operating cash flow before changes in non-cash working capital for the full year was $493.5 million in 2018, a decrease of $37.1 million compared to 2017. The decrease in operating cash flow was a result of higher mine operating costs and lower copper and zinc sales volumes, partially offset by higher realized prices for all metals and higher gold and silver sales volumes.

Cash Flow from Investing and Financing Activities

During the fourth quarter of 2018, we used $83.4 million in investing and financing activities, primarily driven by $57.4 million of capital expenditures and $19.1 million of net cash consideration paid to acquire Mason Resources.

For the full year in 2018, we used $322.5 million of cash in investing and financing activities, primarily driven by $190.9 million of capital expenditures, $74.8 million of interest paid, $20.6 million of financing costs mainly related to withholding taxes on our debt obligations and our revolving credit facilities, $20.9 million of repayments made for our finance leases, and $19.1 million of net cash consideration paid to acquire Mason Resources.

38

 

Capital Expenditures

The following summarizes accrued and cash additions to capital assets for the periods indicated:

    Three months ended     Year ended     Guidance  
    Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Annual1  
(in $ millions)   2018     2017     2018     2017     2018     2019  
Manitoba sustaining capital                                    
expenditures   31.9     19.6     104.4     58.6     85.0     100.0  
Peru sustaining capital expenditures 2   12.2     30.2     40.0     123.8     50.0     95.0  
Total sustaining capital expenditures   44.1     49.8     144.4     182.4     135.0     195.0  
Arizona capitalized costs   5.1     5.0     19.7     18.5     35.0     20.0  
Peru growth capitalized expenditures 3   0.3     5.4     2.3     7.0     —     45.0  
Manitoba growth capitalized expenditures   0.2     15.5     18.1     39.8     20.0     10.0  
Other capitalized costs 4   16.3     8.1     12.3     23.7              
Capitalized exploration   10.2     7.6     11.7     8.4     10.0     15.0  
Capitalized interest   3.3     3.2     13.2     13.1              
Total other capitalized costs   35.4     44.8     77.3     110.5              
Total accrued capital additions   79.5     94.6     221.7     292.9              
Reconciliation to cash capital additions:                                    
     Decommissioning and restoration obligation   (15.4 )   (6.3 )   (9.0 )   (10.7 )        
     Capitalized interest   (3.3 )   (3.2 )   (13.2 )   (13.1 )            
     Changes in capital accruals and other   (3.4 )   2.9     (8.6 )   (19.3 )        
Total cash capital additions   57.4     88.0     190.9     249.8              

1 Sustaining capital expenditure guidance excludes capitalized interest.
2 Peru sustaining capital expenditures includes capitalized stripping costs.
3 Initial 2018 guidance for Peru growth capital expenditures was $45.0 million. This included expenditures for developing the Pampacancha deposit and acquiring surface rights from the local community, which were deferred.
4 Other capitalized costs include decommissioning and restoration adjustments.

Sustaining capital expenditures in Manitoba for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018 were $31.9 million and $104.4 million, respectively, an increase of $12.3 million and $45.8 million, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2017. The increase in Manitoba sustaining capital expenditures compared to the same periods last year was due to increased capital development expenditures at Lalor, tailings dam enhancements, and increased exploration capital spending.

Sustaining capital expenditures in Peru for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2018 were $12.2 million and $40.0 million, respectively, a decrease of $18.0 million and $83.8 million, respectively, compared to the same periods in 2017 as a result of reduced planned spending on civil works projects.

Manitoba growth capital spending was mainly focused on completion of the Lalor paste fill plant. Overall, total sustaining and growth capital expenditures in 2018 were in line with guidance.

39

 

Capital Commitments

As at December 31, 2018, we had outstanding capital commitments in Canada of approximately $2.9 million primarily related to Lalor mine equipment, all of which can be terminated, approximately $38.8 million in Peru primarily related to sustaining capital costs, all of which can be terminated, and approximately $166.8 million in Arizona, primarily related to its Rosemont project, of which approximately $83.2 million cannot be terminated.

40

 

Contractual Obligations

The following table summarizes our significant contractual obligations as at December 31, 2018:

          Less than     13 - 36     37 - 60     More than  
Payment Schedule (in $ millions)   Total     12 months     months     months     60 months  
Long-term debt obligations1   1,439.8     79.3     156.9     535.0     668.6  
Finance lease obligations   78.2     18.5     40.6     19.1     —  
Operating lease obligations   63.4     42.0     18.4     1.0     2.0  
Purchase obligation - capital commitments   208.5     20.9     49.8     8.6     129.2  
Purchase obligation - other commitments2   565.9     187.8     197.2     110.0     70.9  
Pension and other employee future benefits obligations4   129.5     14.4     29.9     6.5     78.7  
Decommissioning and restoration obligations4   200.5     1.2     0.6     8.2     190.5  
Total   2,685.8     364.1     493.4     688.4     1,139.9  

1 Long-term debt obligations include scheduled interest payments, as well as principal repayments.
2 Primarily made up of long-term agreements with operational suppliers, obligations for power purchase, concentrate handling, fleet and port services.
3 Discounted.
4 Before inflation.

In addition to the contractual obligations included in the above payment schedule, we also have the following commitments which impact our financial position:

  – A profit-sharing plan with most Manitoba employees;
  – A profit-sharing plan with all Peru employees;
  – Wheaton Precious Metals precious metals stream agreements for the 777 mine and Constancia mines;
  – A net smelter returns royalty agreement related to the 777 mine; and
  – Various royalty agreements related to the Constancia mine

Liquidity

As at December 31, 2018, we had total liquidity of approximately $937.0 million, including $515.5 million in cash and cash equivalents, as well as $421.5 million in availability under our Credit Facilities. We expect that our current liquidity and future cash flows will be sufficient to meet our obligations in the coming year.

Outstanding Share Data

As of February 15, 2019, there were 261,272,151 common shares of Hudbay issued and outstanding.

FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT

From time to time, we maintain price protection programs and conduct commodity price risk management to reduce risk through the use of financial instruments.

Base Metals Price Strategic Risk Management

Our strategic objective is to provide our investors with exposure to base metals prices, unless a reason exists to implement a hedging arrangement. In the normal course, we typically consider base metal price hedging:

41

 
– In conjunction with a major capital commitment to a growth opportunity for which operating cash flow is a key funding source;
  – To ensure the viability of a shorter life and/or higher cost mine;
– To manage the risk associated with provisional pricing terms in concentrate purchase and sale agreements;
  – To offset fixed price zinc sales contracts with customers.

During 2018, we entered into copper hedging transactions intended to manage the risk associated with provisional pricing terms in concentrate sales agreements.

As at December 31, 2018, we had 29,950 tonnes of copper fixed for floating swaps outstanding at an average fixed receivable price of $2.77/lb associated with provisional pricing risk in concentrate sales agreements. These swaps settle across January to April 2019.

To provide a service to customers who purchase zinc from our plants and require known future prices, we enter into fixed price sales contracts. To ensure that we continue to receive a floating or unhedged realized zinc price, we enter into forward zinc purchase contracts that effectively offset the fixed price sales contracts with our customers.

From time to time, we enter into gold and silver forward sales contracts to hedge the commodity price risk associated with the future settlement of provisionally priced deliveries. We are generally obligated to deliver gold and silver to Wheaton prior to the determination of final settlement prices. These forward sales contracts are entered into at the time we deliver gold and silver to Wheaton, and are intended to mitigate the risk of subsequent adverse gold and silver price changes. Gains and losses resulting from the settlement of these derivatives are recorded directly to revenue, as the forward sales contracts do not achieve hedge accounting, and the associated cash flows are classified in operating activities. Our swap agreements are with counterparties we believe to be creditworthy and do not require us to provide collateral.

Interest Rate and Foreign Exchange Risk Management

To the extent that we incur indebtedness at variable interest rates to fund our growth objectives, we may enter into interest rate hedging arrangements to manage our exposure to short-term interest rates. To the extent that we make commitments to capital expenditures denominated in foreign currencies, we may enter into foreign exchange forwards or acquire foreign currency outright, which may result in foreign exchange gains or losses in our consolidated income statements.

At December 31, 2018, approximately $478.4 million of our cash and cash equivalents was held in US dollars, approximately $23.2 million of our cash and cash equivalents was held in Canadian dollars, and approximately $13.9 million of our cash and cash equivalents was held in Peruvian soles.

42

 

TREND ANALYSIS AND QUARTERLY REVIEW

The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial information for each of our eight most recently completed quarters:

          2017  
    2018     (Restated)  
(in $ millions)   Q4     Q3     Q2     Q1     Q4     Q3     Q2     Q1  
Revenue   351.8     362.6     371.3     386.7     424.4     380.2     336.0     261.8  
Gross margin   75.2     85.3     92.5     120.8     145.0     119.6     88.0     56.6  
Profit (loss) before tax   17.7     30.3     49.8     73.1     79.6     53.8     34.9     4.6  
(Loss) profit   (3.5 )   22.8     24.7     41.4     94.3     36.3     19.1     (10.0 )
(Loss) earnings per share:                                                
     Basic and Diluted   (0.01 )   0.09     0.09     0.16     0.36     0.15     0.08     (0.04 )
Operating cash flow1   107.9     122.1     131.6     131.8     171.9     153.9     124.1     80.6  

1 Operating cash flow before changes in non-cash working capital

Lower revenues in the fourth quarter of 2018 were a function of lower sales volumes of copper and zinc metal mainly due to lower grades, and lower base metal prices compared to earlier quarters in the year. Gross profit and operating cash flow before changes in non-cash working capital compared to prior periods was also lower given the lower revenues and the higher mine operating costs. The increased mine operating costs resulted from higher maintenance costs associated with an aging infrastructure in Flin Flon and higher throughput in Peru.

Revenue and operating cash flow were relatively consistent in the first three quarters of 2018, following strong production and sales volumes in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Consistent increases in revenue and operating cash flow were realized across 2017 due to increasing copper and zinc prices.

In addition to the items noted above which impacted gross margin, net profit (loss) was impacted by a non cash deferred tax adjustment of $45.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2017.

43

 

The following table sets forth selected consolidated financial information for each of the three most recently completed years:

(in $ millions, except for earnings (loss) per share and         2017     2016  
dividends declared per share)   2018     (Restated)     (Restated)  
Revenue   1,472.4     1,402.3     1,177.4  
Gross Margin   373.7     409.1     267.5  
Profit (loss) before tax   170.8     172.9     (17.1 )
Profit (loss)   85.4     139.7     (54.9 )
Earnings (loss) per share:                  
     Basic and diluted   0.33     0.57     (0.23 )
Total assets   4,685.6     4,728.0     4,505.2  
Operating cash flow1   493.5     530.6     387.9  
Total non-current financial liabilities2   1,053.6     1,066.6     1,253.8  
Dividends declared per share - C$3   0.02     0.02     0.02  

1 Operating cash flow before change in non-cash working capital.
2 Total long-term financial liabilities include non-current portions of net long-term debt, other financial liabilities and finance lease obligations.
3 Dividend paid during March and September of each year.

In the current year, realized prices for copper and gold rose 4% and 7%, respectively, compared to prices in 2017. Comparable prices for other metals resulted in relatively consistent revenues, year-over-year. Mill throughput at Constancia reached annual record levels, contributing to higher milling costs, and is the primary driver for the overall reduction in operating cash flow before changes in non-cash working capital. Revenues rose by 5%, despite lower sales volumes for copper, gold and zinc, and profit before tax remained consistent with prior year, although operating costs rose due to the aforementioned higher production costs. Cash costs per pound of copper produced increased to $0.94 from $0.84, illustrating an increase in higher consumable costs, lower capitalized stripping and lower production at Constancia, offset by higher by-product credits for all metals.

In 2017, realized copper and zinc prices rose 28% and 37%, respectively, compared to prices in 2016. Zinc production rose 22% compared to 2016 due to the re-sequencing of the 777 mine plan to prioritize higher grade zinc stopes. These pricing and production improvements were the primary driver in the growth in revenue and operating cash flow before changes in non-cash working capital. Revenue increased by $224.9 million or 19% and cash flow before changes in non-cash working capital rose by $142.7 million or 37%. Stronger performance in these metrics came notwithstanding lower copper and precious metals in concentrate production. Cash costs per pound of copper produced was also lower on a consolidated basis, down from $0.93 to $0.84. The decrease was a function of higher by-product credits for all metals, which was partially offset by expected higher costs at our 777 and Reed mines during this part of their mine life and expected reduced copper production at Constancia due to lower copper grades.

In addition to the items noted above which impacted gross margin, net profit (loss) was impacted by the following items:

Year   Significant non-recurring items affecting net     Before tax net     After tax net  
    income     income impact (in $     income impact (in $  
          millions)     millions)  
2016   Cost of refinancing Redeemed Notes     (49.9 )   (36.5 )
2016   Non-cash deferred tax adjustments     —     (20.7 )
2017   Non-cash deferred tax adjustments     —     45.4  

44

 

NON-IFRS FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE MEASURES

Net debt is shown because it is a performance measure used by the Company to assess our financial position. Cash cost, sustaining and all-in sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced are shown because we believe they help investors and management assess the performance of our operations, including the margin generated by the operations and the Company. Cash cost and sustaining cash cost per pound of zinc produced are shown because we believe they help investors and management assess the performance of our Manitoba operations. These measures do not have a meaning prescribed by IFRS and are therefore unlikely to be comparable to similar measures presented by other issuers. These measures should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for measures prepared in accordance with IFRS and are not necessarily indicative of operating profit or cash flow from operations as determined under IFRS. Other companies may calculate these measures differently.

Net Debt

The following table presents our calculation of net debt as at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017:

    Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
(in $ thousands)   2018     2017  
Total long-term debt   981,030     979,575  
Cash and cash equivalents   (515,497 )   (356,499 )
Net debt   465,533     623,076  

Cash Cost, Sustaining and All-in Sustaining Cash Cost (Copper Basis)

Cash cost per pound of copper produced (“cash cost”) is a non-IFRS measure that management uses as a key performance indicator to assess the performance of our operations. Our calculation designates copper as our primary metal of production as it has been the largest component of revenues. The calculation is presented in four manners:

–

Cash cost, before by-product credits - This measure is gross of by-product revenues and is a function of the efforts and costs incurred to mine and process all ore mined. However, the measure divides this aggregate cost over only pounds of copper produced, our primary metal of production. This measure is generally less volatile from period to period, as it is not affected by changes in the price received for by-product metals. It is, however, significantly affected by the relative mix of copper concentrate and finished zinc production, where the sale of the zinc will occur later, and an increase in production of zinc metal will tend to result in an increase in cash cost under this measure.
 

–

Cash cost, net of by-product credits - In order to calculate the net cost to produce and sell copper, the net of by-product credits measure subtracts the revenues realized from the sale of the metals other than copper. The by-product revenues from zinc, gold, and silver are significant and are integral to the economics of our operations. The economics that support our decision to produce and sell copper would be different if we did not receive revenues from the other significant metals being extracted and processed. This measure provides management and investors with an indication of the minimum copper price consistent with positive operating cash flow and operating margins, assuming realized by-product metal prices are consistent with those prevailing during the reporting period. It also serves as an important operating statistic that management and investors utilize to measure our operating performance versus that of our competitors. However, it is important to understand that if by-product metal prices decline alongside copper prices, the cash cost net of by-product credits would increase, requiring a higher copper price than that reported to maintain positive cash flows and operating margins.
 

–

Sustaining cash cost, net of by-product credits - This measure is an extension of cash cost that includes sustaining capital expenditures, capitalized exploration and net smelter returns royalties. It does not include corporate selling and administrative expenses. It provides a more fulsome measurement of the cost of sustaining production than cash cost, which is focused on operating costs only.

45

 

–

All-in sustaining cash cost, net of by-product credits - This measure is an extension of sustaining cash cost that includes corporate G&A. Due to the inclusion of corporate selling and administrative expenses, all-in sustaining cash cost is presented on a consolidated basis only.

The tables below present a detailed build-up of cash cost and sustaining cash cost, net of by-product credits, by business unit in addition to consolidated all-in sustaining cash cost, net of by-product credits, and reconciliations between cash cost, net of by-product credits, to the most comparable IFRS measures of cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. Cash cost, net of by-product credits may not calculate exactly based on amounts presented in the tables below due to rounding.

Consolidated   Three months ended     Year ended  
Net pounds of copper produced                        
(in thousands)   Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Peru   67,977     74,597     269,357     268,481  
Manitoba   14,118     20,587     71,368     82,477  
Net pounds of copper produced   82,095     95,184     340,725     350,958  

Consolidated   Three months ended     Year ended  
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Cash cost per pound of copper produced $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
Cash cost, before product credits   by- 211,023     2.57     222,730     2.34     844,441     2.48     788,740     2.25  
By-product credits, net of deferred revenue   (134,200 )   (1.63 )   (149,172 )   (1.57 )   (524,193 )   (1.54 )   (494,587 )   (1.41 )
Cash cost, net of by- product credits   76,823     0.94     73,558     0.77     320,248     0.94     294,153     0.84  

46

 
Consolidated   Three months ended     Year ended  
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Supplementary cash cost                                                
information $ 000s   $ /lb 1   $ 000s   $ /lb 1   $ 000s   $ /lb 1   $ 000s   $ /lb 1  
By-product credits:                                                
     Zinc   86,264     1.05     108,137     1.14     353,971     1.04     352,941     1.01  
     Gold   36,397     0.44     37,143     0.39     151,452     0.44     139,633     0.40  
     Silver   21,432     0.26     20,748     0.22     85,616     0.25     76,783     0.22  
     Other   13,367     0.16     2,777     0.03     26,536     0.08     13,974     0.04  
Total by-product credits   157,460     1.92     168,805     1.77     617,575     1.81     583,331     1.66  
Less: deferred revenue   (23,260 )   (0.28 )   (19,633 )   (0.21 )   (93,382 )   (0.27 )   (88,744 )   (0.25 )
Total by-product credits, net of deferred revenue   134,200     1.63     149,172     1.57     524,193     1.54     494,587     1.41  
Reconciliation to IFRS:                                                
Cash cost, net of by- product credits   76,823         73,558         320,248         294,153      
By-product credits   157,460           168,805           617,575           583,331        
Change in deferred revenues   (23,260 )       (19,633 )       (93,382 )       (88,744 )    
Treatment and refining charges   (27,352 )       (31,043 )       (101,909 )       (106,066 )    
Share-based payment   180           712           160           1,946        
Pension enhancement   —           10,442           —           10,442        
Inventory adjustments   (32 )         (174 )         (234 )         (1,677 )      
Change in product inventory   6,388         (3,193 )       7,254         (12,879 )    
Royalties   4,097           3,520           16,247           15,222        
Depreciation and amortization2   82,243         76,412         332,667         297,470      
Cost of sales   276,547           279,406           1,098,626           993,198        

1

Per pound of copper produced.

2

Depreciation is based on concentrate sold.


Peru   Three months ended     Year ended  
(in thousands)   Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
                         
Net pounds of copper produced1   67,977     74,597     269,357     268,481  

1 Contained copper in concentrate.

47

 
Peru   Three months ended     Year ended  
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Cash cost per pound of                                                
   copper produced $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
Mining   21,721     0.32     21,334     0.29     91,324     0.34     61,459     0.23  
Milling   39,590     0.58     39,703     0.53     150,016     0.56     138,502     0.52  
G&A   15,036     0.22     17,594     0.24     56,533     0.21     57,479     0.21  
Onsite costs   76,347     1.12     78,631     1.05     297,873     1.11     257,440     0.96  
Treatment & refining   19,050     0.28     20,328     0.27     65,937     0.24     66,289     0.25  
Freight & other   14,919     0.22     12,027     0.16     51,840     0.19     43,905     0.16  
Cash cost, before by- product credits   110,316     1.62     110,986     1.49     415,650     1.54     367,634     1.37  
By-product credits, net of deferred revenue   (21,169 )   (0.31 )   (8,267 )   (0.11 )   (49,587 )   (0.18 )   (24,862 )   (0.09 )
Cash cost, net of by- product credits   89,147     1.31     102,719     1.38     366,063     1.36     342,772     1.28  

Peru         Three months ended                 Year ended        
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Supplementary cash         1           1           1           1  
    cost information $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
By-product credits:                                                
Gold   8,588     0.13     5,582     0.07     24,156     0.09     13,641     0.05  
Silver   15,320     0.23     15,109     0.20     60,138     0.22     52,692     0.20  
Other   11,990     0.18     1,424     0.02     21,791     0.08     8,912     0.03  
Total by-product credits   35,898     0.53     22,115     0.30     106,085     0.39     75,245     0.28  
Less: deferred revenue   (14,729 )   (0.22 )   (13,848 )   (0.19 )   (56,498 )   (0.21 )   (50,383 )   (0.19 )
Total by-product credits, net of deferred revenue   21,169     0.31     8,267     0.11     49,587     0.18     24,862     0.09  
Reconciliation to IFRS:                                                
Cash cost, net of by- product credits   89,147         102,719         366,063         342,772      
By-product credits   35,898           22,115           106,085           75,245        
Change in deferred revenues   (14,729 )       (13,848 )       (56,498 )       (50,383 )    
Treatment and refining charges   (19,050 )       (20,328 )       (65,937 )       (66,289 )    
Inventory adjustments   (32 )         (174 )         (234 )         (1,677 )      
Share-based payment   53           108           59           403        
Change in product inventory   3,453         4,725         (4,141 )       (2,960 )    
Royalties   1,986           1,737           7,802           5,754        
Depreciation and amortization2   52,510         52,570         211,152         178,700      
Cost of sales   149,236           149,624           564,351           481,565        

1 Per pound of copper produced.
2 Depreciation is based on concentrate sold.

48


Manitoba   Three months ended     Year ended  
(in thousands)   Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Net pounds of copper produced1   14,118     20,587     71,368     82,477  

1 Contained copper in concentrate.

Manitoba         Three months ended                 Year ended        
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Cash cost per pound of                                                
   copper produced $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
Mining   42,825     3.03     41,794     2.03     165,108     2.31     151,994     1.84  
Milling   13,372     0.95     12,666     0.62     52,544     0.74     48,947     0.59  
Refining (zinc)   18,837     1.33     18,458     0.90     73,008     1.02     67,966     0.82  
G&A   9,265     0.66     12,221     0.59     46,038     0.65     51,660     0.63  
Purchased ore and zinc concentrates   —     0.00     6,156     0.30     20,804     0.29     21,881     0.27  
Onsite costs   84,299     5.97     91,295     4.43     357,502     5.01     342,448     4.15  
Treatment & refining   8,302     0.59     10,715     0.52     35,972     0.50     39,777     0.48  
Freight & other   8,106     0.57     9,734     0.47     35,317     0.49     38,881     0.47  
Cash cost, before by- product credits   100,707     7.13     111,744     5.43     428,791     6.01     421,106     5.11  
By-product credits, net of deferred revenue   (113,031 )   (8.01 )   (140,905 )   (6.84 )   (474,606 )   (6.65 )   (469,725 )   (5.70 )
Cash cost, net of by- product credits   (12,324 )   (0.87 )   (29,161 )   (1.42 )   (45,815 )   (0.64 )   (48,619 )   (0.59 )

49

 
Manitoba         Three months ended                 Year ended        
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Supplementary cash         1           1           1           1  
   cost information $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
By-product credits:                                                
Zinc   86,264     6.11     108,137     5.25     353,971     4.96     352,941     4.28  
Gold   27,809     1.97     31,561     1.53     127,296     1.78     125,992     1.53  
Silver   6,112     0.43     5,639     0.27     25,478     0.36     24,091     0.29  
Other   1,377     0.10     1,353     0.07     4,745     0.07     5,062     0.06  
Total by-product credits   121,562     8.61     146,690     7.13     511,490     7.17     508,086     6.16  
Less: deferred revenue   (8,531 )   (0.60 )   (5,785 )   (0.28 )   (36,884 )   (0.52 )   (38,361 )   (0.47 )
Total by-product credits, net of deferred revenue   113,031     8.01     140,905     6.84     474,606     6.65     469,725     5.70  
Reconciliation to IFRS:                                                
Cash cost, net of by- product credits   (12,324 )       (29,161 )       (45,815 )       (48,619 )    
By-product credits   121,562           146,690           511,490           508,086        
Change in deferred revenues   (8,531 )       (5,785 )       (36,884 )       (38,361 )    
Treatment and refining charges   (8,302 )       (10,715 )       (35,972 )       (39,777 )    
Share- based payment   127           604           101           1,543        
Pension enhancement   —           10,442           —           10,442        
Change in product inventory   2,935         (7,918 )       11,395         (9,919 )    
Royalties   2,111           1,783           8,445           9,468        
Depreciation and amortization2   29,733         23,842         121,515         118,770      
Cost of sales   127,311           129,782           534,275           511,633        

1 Per pound of copper produced.
2 Depreciation is based on concentrate sold.

50

 
Consolidated         Three months ended                 Year ended        
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
                                                 
All-in sustaining cash cost per                                                
     pound of copper produced $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
Cash cost, net of by-product credits   76,823     0.94     73,558     0.77     320,248     0.94     294,153     0.84  
Sustaining capital expenditures   44,126     0.54     49,857     0.52     144,399     0.42     180,577     0.51  
Capitalized exploration   8,698     0.11     7,613     0.08     10,222     0.03     8,446     0.02  
Royalties   4,097     0.05     3,520     0.04     16,247     0.05     15,222     0.04  
Sustaining cash cost, net of by- product credits   133,744     1.63     134,548     1.41     491,116     1.44     498,398     1.42  
Corporate selling and administrative expenses   8,638     0.11     14,261     0.15     27,243     0.08     42,283     0.12  
All-in sustaining cash cost, net of by-product credits   142,382     1.73     148,809     1.56     518,359     1.52     540,681     1.54  

Peru         Three months ended                 Year ended        
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Sustaining cash cost per pound                                                
     of copper produced $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
Cash cost, net of by-product credits   89,147     1.31     102,719     1.38     366,063     1.36     342,772     1.28  
Sustaining capital expenditures   12,241     0.18     30,245     0.41     39,999     0.15     123,848     0.46  
Capitalized exploration1   8,500     0.13     7,000     0.09     8,500     0.03     7,000     0.03  
Royalties   1,986     0.03     1,737     0.02     7,802     0.03     5,754     0.02  
Sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced   111,874     1.65     141,701     1.90     422,364     1.57     479,374     1.79  

1 Only includes exploration costs incurred for locations near to existing mine operations.

Manitoba         Three months ended                 Year ended        
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Sustaining cash cost per pound                                                
     of copper produced $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
Cash cost, net of by-product credits   (12,324 )   (0.87 )   (29,161 )   (1.42 )   (45,815 )   (0.64 )   (48,619 )   (0.59 )
Sustaining capital expenditures   31,885     2.26     19,612     0.95     104,400     1.46     56,729     0.69  
Capitalized exploration   198     0.01     613     0.03     1,722     0.02     1,446     0.02  
Royalties   2,111     0.15     1,783     0.09     8,445     0.12     9,468     0.11  
Sustaining cash cost per pound of copper produced   21,870     1.55     (7,153 )   (0.35 )   68,752     0.96     19,024     0.23  

51

 

Zinc Cash Cost and Zinc Sustaining Cash Cost

Cash cost per pound of zinc produced (“zinc cash cost”) is a non-IFRS measure that management uses as a key performance indicator to assess the performance of our Manitoba operations. This alternative cash cost calculation designates zinc as the primary metal of production as it is the largest component of revenues for our Manitoba business unit, and should therefore be less volatile over time than Manitoba cash cost per pound of copper. The calculation is presented in three manners:

–

Zinc cash cost, before by-product credits - This measure is gross of by-product revenues and is a function of the efforts and costs incurred to mine and process all ore mined. However, the measure divides this aggregate cost over only pounds of zinc produced, our primary metal of production. This measure is generally less volatile from period to period, as it is not affected by changes in the price received for by-product metals. It is, however, significantly affected by the relative mix of copper concentrate and finished zinc production, where the sale of the copper will occur later, and an increase in production of copper metal will tend to result in an increase in zinc cash cost under this measure.

 

 

–

Zinc cash cost, net of by-product credits - In order to calculate the net cost to produce and sell zinc, the net of by-product credits measure subtracts the revenues realized from the sale of the metals other than zinc. The by-product revenues from copper, gold, and silver are significant and are integral to the economics of our Manitoba operation. The economics that support our decision to produce and sell zinc would be different if we did not receive revenues from the other significant metals being extracted and processed. This measure provides management and investors with an indication of the minimum zinc price consistent with positive operating cash flow and operating margins, assuming realized by-product metal prices are consistent with those prevailing during the reporting period. It also serves as an important operating statistic that management and investors utilize to measure our operating performance at our Manitoba operation versus that of our competitors. However, it is important to understand that if by-product metal prices decline alongside zinc prices, the zinc cash cost net of by-product credits would increase, requiring a higher zinc price than that reported to maintain positive cash flows and operating margins.

 

 

–

Zinc sustaining cash cost, net of by-product credits - This measure is an extension of zinc cash cost that includes sustaining capital expenditures, capitalized exploration and net smelter returns royalties. It does not include corporate selling and administrative expenses. It provides a more fulsome measurement of the cost of sustaining production than zinc cash cost, which is focused on operating costs only.

The tables below present a detailed build-up of zinc cash cost and zinc sustaining cash cost, net of by-product credits, for the Manitoba business unit, and reconciliations between zinc cash cost, net of by-product credits, to the most comparable IFRS measures of cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017. Zinc cash cost, net of by-product credits, may not calculate exactly based on amounts presented in the tables below due to rounding.

Manitoba   Three months ended     Year ended  
                         
(in thousands)   Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Net pounds of zinc produced1   60,425     72,874     254,828     297,969  

1 Contained zinc in concentrate.

Manitoba         Three months ended                 Year ended        
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Cash cost per pound of                                                
   zinc produced $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
Cash cost, before by- product credits1   100,707     1.67     111,744     1.53     428,791     1.68     421,106     1.41  
By-product credits   (55,460 )   (0.92 )   (90,956 )   (1.25 )   (312,438 )   (1.23 )   (360,719 )   (1.21 )
Zinc cash cost, net of by-product credits   45,247     0.75     20,788     0.29     116,353     0.46     60,387     0.20  

1 For additional detail on cash cost, before by-product credits please see page 49 of this MD&A.

52

 
Manitoba         Three months ended                 Year ended        
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Supplementary cash                                                
     cost information $ 000s   $ /lb 1   $ 000s   $ /lb 1   $ 000s   $ /lb 1   $ 000s   $ /lb 1  
By-product credits:                                                
Copper   28,693     0.47     58,188     0.80     191,803     0.75     243,935     0.82  
Gold   27,809     0.46     31,561     0.43     127,296     0.50     125,992     0.42  
Silver   6,112     0.10     5,639     0.08     25,478     0.10     24,091     0.08  
Other   1,377     0.02     1,353     0.02     4,745     0.02     5,062     0.02  
Total by-product credits   63,991     1.06     96,741     1.33     349,322     1.37     399,080     1.34  
Less: deferred revenue   (8,531 )   (0.14 )   (5,785 )   (0.08 )   (36,884 )   (0.14 )   (38,361 )   (0.13 )
                                                 
Total by-product credits, net of deferred revenue   55,460     0.92     90,956     1.25     312,438     1.23     360,719     1.21  
Reconciliation to IFRS:                                                
Cash cost, net of by- product credits   45,247         20,788         116,353         60,387      
By-product credits   63,991           96,741           349,322           399,080        
Change in deferred revenues   (8,531 )       (5,785 )       (36,884 )       (38,361 )    
Treatment and refining charges   (8,302 )       (10,715 )       (35,972 )       (39,777 )    
Share-based payment   127           604           101           1,543        
                                                 
Pension enhancement   —           10,442           —           10,442        
Change in product inventory   2,935         (7,918 )       11,395         (9,919 )    
Royalties   2,111           1,783           8,445           9,468        
Depreciation and amortization2   29,733         23,842         121,515         118,770      
Cost of sales   127,311           129,782           534,275           511,633        

1 Per pound of zinc produced.
2 Depreciation is based on concentrate sold.

Manitoba               Three months ended                 Year ended  
    Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017     Dec. 31, 2018     Dec. 31, 2017  
Sustaining cash cost per                                                
     pound of zinc                                                
     produced $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb   $ 000s   $ /lb  
Zinc cash cost, net of by- product credits   45,247     0.75     20,788     0.29     116,353     0.46     60,387     0.20  
Sustaining capital expenditures   31,885     0.53     19,612     0.27     104,400     0.41     56,729     0.19  
Capitalized exploration   198     —     613     0.01     1,722     0.01     1,446     —  
Royalties   2,111     0.03     1,783     0.02     8,445     0.03     9,468     0.03  
Sustaining cash cost per pound of zinc produced   79,441     1.31     42,796     0.59     230,920     0.91     128,030     0.43  

53

 

Combined Unit Cost & Zinc Plant Unit Cost Reconciliation

Combined unit cost (“unit cost”) and zinc plant unit cost is a non-IFRS measure that management uses as a key performance indicator to assess the performance of our mining and milling operations. Combined unit cost and zinc plant unit cost are calculated by dividing the cost of sales by mill throughput. This measure is utilized by management and investors to assess our cost structure and margins and compare it to similar information provided by other companies in our industry. Unlike cash cost, this measure is not impacted by variability in by-product commodity prices since there are no by-product deductions; costs associated with profit-sharing and similar costs are excluded because of their correlation to external metal prices. In addition, the unit costs are reported in the functional currency of the operation which minimizes the impact of foreign currency fluctuations. In all, the unit cost measures provide an alternative perspective on operating cost performance with minimal impact from external market prices.

The tables below present a detailed combined unit cost and zinc plant unit costs for the Manitoba business unit and combined unit cost for the Peru business unit, and reconciliations between these measures to the most comparable IFRS measures of cost of sales for the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017.

Peru   Three months ended     Year ended  
(in thousands except unit cost per tonne)   Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
Combined unit cost per tonne processed   2018     2017     2018     2017  
Mining   21,721     21,334     91,324     61,459  
Milling   39,590     39,703     150,016     138,502  
G&A 1   15,036     17,594     56,533     57,479  
Less: Other G&A 2   (692 )   (3,862 )   (2,521 )   (3,762 )
Unit cost   75,655     74,769     295,352     253,678  
Tonnes ore milled   7,658     7,666     31,283     28,744  
Combined unit cost per tonne   9.88     9.75     9.44     8.83  
                         
Reconciliation to IFRS:                        
Unit cost   75,655     74,769     295,352     253,678  
Freight & other   14,919     12,027     51,840     43,905  
Other G&A   692     3,862     2,521     3,762  
Share-based payment   53     108     59     403  
Inventory reversals   (32 )   (174 )   (234 )   (1,677 )
Change in product inventory   3,453     4,725     (4,141 )   (2,960 )
Royalties   1,986     1,737     7,802     5,754  
Depreciation and amortization   52,510     52,570     211,152     178,700  
                         
Cost of sales   149,236     149,624     564,351     481,565  

1 G&A as per cash cost reconciliation above.
2 Other G&A primarily includes profit sharing costs.

54

 
Peru   Three months ended     Year ended  
(in thousands except unit cost per tonne)                        
Combined unit cost, excluding molybdenum plant costs, per   Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
   tonne processed   2018     2017     2018     2017  
Unit cost 1   75,655     74,769     295,352     253,678  
Less: Molybdenum plant costs   (2,633 )   (1,544 )   (8,432 )   (5,756 )
Unit cost, excluding molybdenum plant costs   73,022     73,225     286,920     247,922  
Tonnes ore milled   7,658     7,666     31,283     28,744  
Combined unit cost, excluding molybdenum plant costs, per tonne   9.54     9.55     9.17     8.63  

1 For additional details on unit cost, please refer to previous table above.

Manitoba   Three months ended     Year ended  
(in thousands except tonnes ore milled and unit cost per tonne)   Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
Combined unit cost per tonne processed   2018     2017     2018     2017  
Mining   42,825     41,794     165,108     151,994  
Milling   13,372     12,666     52,544     48,947  
G&A 1   9,265     12,221     46,038     51,660  
Less: G&A allocated to zinc metal production   (3,003 )   (2,562 )   (13,525 )   (10,883 )
Less: Other G&A related to profit sharing costs   (306 )   (4,231 )   (6,263 )   (16,802 )
Purchased ore and zinc concentrates   —     6,156     20,804     21,881  
Unit cost   62,153     66,044     264,706     246,797  
USD/CAD exchange rate used   1.32     1.26     1.29     1.29  
Unit cost - C$   81,894     83,516     342,361     319,268  
Tonnes ore milled   573,564     669,876     2,625,210     2,704,722  
Combined unit cost per tonne - C$   143     125     130     118  
                         
Reconciliation to IFRS:                        
Unit cost   62,153     66,044     264,706     246,797  
Freight & other   8,106     9,734     35,317     38,881  
Refined (zinc)   18,837     18,458     73,008     67,966  
G&A allocated to zinc metal production   3,003     2,562     13,525     10,883  
Other G&A related to profit sharing   306     4,231     6,263     16,802  
Share- based payment   127     604     101     1,543  
Pension enhancements   —     10,442     —     10,442  
Change in product inventory   2,935     (7,918 )   11,395     (9,919 )
Royalties   2,111     1,783     8,445     9,468  
Depreciation and amortization   29,733     23,842     121,515     118,770  
                         
Cost of sales   127,311     129,782     534,275     511,633  

1 G&A as per cash cost reconciliation above.

55

 
Manitoba   Three months ended     Year ended  
(in thousands except zinc plant unit cost per pound)   Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,     Dec. 31,  
Zinc plant unit cost   2018     2017     2018     2017  
Zinc plant costs   18,837     18,458     73,008     67,966  
G&A 1   9,265     12,221     46,038     51,660  
Less: G&A allocated to other areas   (5,956 )   (5,428 )   (26,250 )   (23,975 )
Less: Other G&A related to profit sharing   (306 )   (4,231 )   (6,263 )   (16,802 )
Zinc plant unit cost   21,840     21,020     86,533     78,849  
USD/CAD exchange rate used   1.33     1.26     1.30     1.29  
Zinc plant unit cost - C$   29,080     26,507     112,226     101,957  
Refined metal produced (in pounds)   59,271     61,275     224,988     237,980  
Zinc plant unit cost per pound - C$   0.49     0.43     0.50     0.43  
Reconciliation to IFRS:                        
Zinc plant unit cost   21,840     21,020     86,533     78,849  
Freight & other   8,106     9,734     35,317     38,881  
Mining   42,825     41,794     165,108     151,994  
Milling   13,372     12,666     52,544     48,947  
Purchased ore and zinc concentrates   —     6,156     20,804     21,881  
G&A allocated to other areas   5,956     5,428     26,250     23,975  
Other G&A related to profit sharing   306     4,231     6,263     16,802  
Share-based payment   127     604     101     1,543  
Pension enhancements   —     10,442     —     10,442  
Change in product inventory   2,935     (7,918 )   11,395     (9,919 )
Royalties   2,111     1,783     8,445     9,468  
Depreciation and amortization   29,733     23,842     121,515     118,770  
Cost of sales   127,311     129,782     534,275     511,633  

1 G&A as per cash cost reconciliation above.

ACCOUNTING CHANGES

New standards and interpretations not yet adopted

For information on new standards and interpretations not yet adopted, refer to note 4 of our audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS AND ESTIMATES

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires us to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies, reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

We review these estimates and underlying assumptions on an ongoing basis based on our experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected. Certain accounting estimates and judgements have been identified as being “critical” to the presentation of our financial condition and results of operations because they require us to make subjective and/or complex judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain; or there is a reasonable likelihood that materially different amounts could be reported under different conditions or using different assumptions and estimates.

56

 

The following are significant judgements and estimates impacting the consolidated financial statements:

  – Judgements and estimates that affect multiple areas of the consolidated financial statements:
– Mineral reserves and resources which form the basis of life of mine plans which are utilized in impairment testing, timing of payments related to decommissioning obligations and depreciation of capital assets. We estimate our ore reserves and mineral resources based on information compiled by qualified persons as defined in accordance with NI 43-101;
    – Determination of functional currency;
– Income and mining taxes, including estimates of future taxable profit which impacts the ability to realize deferred tax assets on our balance sheet;
– Commencement of commercial production which impacts the timing of revenue recognition, reclassification of capital works in progress and depreciation commencement;
    – Acquisition method accounting; and
– In respect of the outcome of uncertain future events as it concerns recognizing contingent liabilities.
– Judgements and estimates that relate mainly to assets (these judgements may also affect other areas of the consolidated financial statements):
    – Property, plant and equipment:
      – Cost allocations for mine development;
      – Mining properties expenditures capitalized;
      – Classification of supply costs as related to capital development or inventory acquisition;
– Determining when exploration and evaluation assets should be transferred to capital works in progress within property, plant and equipment;
– Determination of when an asset or group of assets is in the condition and location to be ready for use as intended by management for the purposes of commencing depreciation;
      – Componentization;
– Assessment of impairment, including determination of cash generating units and assessing for indicators of impairment;
– Recoverability of exploration and evaluation assets, including determination of cash generating units and assessing for indications of impairment;
      – Determining whether assets meet criteria for classification as held for sale;
      – Units of production depreciation;
      – Plant and equipment estimated useful lives and residual values;
      – Capitalized stripping costs; and
      – Finite life intangible assets.
    – Impairment of non- financial assets:
      – Future production levels and timing;
      – Operating and capital costs;
      – Future commodity prices;
      – Foreign exchange rates; and
      – Risk adjusted discount rates.
    – Valuation of acquired assets; and
    – In process inventory quantities, inventory cost allocations and inventory valuation.
– Judgements and estimates that relate mainly to liabilities (these judgements may also affect other areas of the consolidated financial statements):
    – Determining the accounting classification of the precious metals stream deposit;
– Determination of deferred revenue per unit related to the precious metals stream transactions and determination of current portion of deferred revenue;
    – Pensions and other employee benefits;

57

 
– Decommissioning, restoration and similar liabilities including estimated future costs and timing of spending;
    – Contingent liabilities; and
    – Capital commitments.
  – Estimates that relate mainly to the consolidated income statements:
    – Assaying used to determine revenues and recoverability of inventories.

For more information on judgements and estimates, refer to note 2 of our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018.

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES AND INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Disclosure controls and procedures (“DC&P”)

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate DC&P. As of December 31, 2018, we have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our DC&P in accordance with requirements of National Instrument 52-109 of the Canadian Securities Commission (“NI 52-109”) and the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 (as adopted by the US Securities and Exchange Commission). Our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) supervised and participated in this evaluation.

As of December 31, 2018, based on management’s evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our DC&P were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports we file or submit is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation and is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our CEO and CFO, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Internal control over financial reporting (“ICFR”)

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate ICFR. Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO and CFO, we evaluated the effectiveness of our ICFR based upon the Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on management’s evaluation, our CEO and CFO concluded that our ICFR was effective as of December 31, 2018. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting as at December 31, 2018 has been audited by Deloitte LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm who also audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2018. Deloitte LLP expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Changes in ICFR

We did not make any changes to ICFR during the year ended December 31, 2018 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our ICFR.

Inherent limitations of controls and procedures

All internal control systems, no matter how well designed, have inherent limitations. As a result, even systems determined to be effective may not prevent or detect misstatements on a timely basis, as systems can provide only reasonable assurance that the objectives of the control system are met. In addition, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of ICFR to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may change.

58

 

NOTES TO READER

Forward-Looking Information

This MD&A contains forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. All information contained in this MD&A, other than statements of current and historical fact, is forward-looking information. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “budget”, “guidance”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “strategy”, “target”, “intends”, “objective”, “goal”, “understands”, “anticipates” and “believes” (and variations of these or similar words) and statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “should”, “might” “occur” or “be achieved” or “will be taken” (and variations of these or similar expressions). All of the forward-looking information in this MD&A is qualified by this cautionary note.

Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, production, cost and capital and exploration expenditure guidance, anticipated production at our mines and processing facilities, the expected benefits of implementing the metallurgical recovery and optimization initiatives at Constancia processing plant and expectations regarding the schedule for acquiring the Pampacancha surface rights and mining the Pampacancha deposit, the final Rosemont permits and any litigation challenging Rosemont's permits, expectations regarding the Lalor gold strategy, including the refurbishment of the New Britannia mill, the low costs of the operation and the possibility of optimizing the value of our gold resources in Manitoba, the possibility of converting inferred mineral resource estimates to higher confidence categories, the potential and our anticipated plans for advancing our mining properties surrounding Constancia and the Ann Mason project, anticipated mine plans, anticipated metals prices and the anticipated sensitivity of our financial performance to metals prices, events that may affect our operations and development projects, anticipated cash flows from operations and related liquidity requirements, the anticipated effect of external factors on revenue, such as commodity prices, estimation of mineral reserves and resources, mine life projections, reclamation costs, economic outlook, government regulation of mining operations, and business and acquisition strategies. Forward-looking information is not, and cannot be, a guarantee of future results or events. Forward-looking information is based on, among other things, opinions, assumptions, estimates and analyses that, while considered reasonable by us at the date the forward-looking information is provided, inherently are subject to significant risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors that may cause actual results and events to be materially different from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information.

The material factors or assumptions that we identified and were applied by us in drawing conclusions or making forecasts or projections set out in the forward-looking information include, but are not limited to:

– the schedule for the refurbishment of the New Britannia mill;
– the success of the Lalor gold strategy;
– obtaining the final permits for Rosemont and obtaining any required joint venture partner approvals to advance the project;
– the ability to secure required land rights to develop and commence mining the Pampacancha deposit;
– the success of mining, processing, exploration and development activities;
– the scheduled maintenance and availability of our processing facilities;
– the accuracy of geological, mining and metallurgical estimates;
– anticipated metals prices and the costs of production;
– the supply and demand for metals we produce;
– the supply and availability of all forms of energy and fuels at reasonable prices;
– no significant unanticipated operational or technical difficulties;
– the execution of our business and growth strategies, including the success of our strategic investments and initiatives;
– the availability of additional financing, if needed;
– the ability to complete project targets on time and on budget and other events that may affect our ability to develop our projects;
– the timing and receipt of various regulatory, governmental and joint venture partner approvals;
– the availability of personnel for our exploration, development and operational projects and ongoing employee relations;
– maintaining good relations with the communities in which we operate, including the communities surrounding our Constancia mine and Rosemont project and First Nations communities surrounding our Lalor mine;

59

 
– no significant unanticipated challenges with stakeholders at our various projects;
– no significant unanticipated events or changes relating to regulatory, environmental, health and safety matters;
– no contests over title to our properties, including as a result of rights or claimed rights of aboriginal peoples;
– the timing and possible outcome of pending litigation and no significant unanticipated litigation;
– certain tax matters, including, but not limited to current tax laws and regulations and the refund of certain value added taxes from the Canadian and Peruvian governments; and
– no significant and continuing adverse changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets (including commodity prices and foreign exchange rates).

The risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking information may include, but are not limited to, risks generally associated with the mining industry, such as economic factors (including future commodity prices, currency fluctuations, energy prices and general cost escalation), uncertainties related to the development and operation of our projects (including risks associated with the permitting, development and economics of the Rosemont project and related legal challenges), risks related to the new Lalor mine plan, including the schedule for the refurbishment of the New Britannia mill and convert inferred mineral resource estimates to higher confidence categories, risks related schedule for mining the Pampacancha deposit (including the timing and cost of acquiring the required surface rights and the impact of any schedule delays), dependence on key personnel and employee and union relations, risks related to political or social unrest or change, risks in respect of aboriginal and community relations, rights and title claims, operational risks and hazards, including unanticipated environmental, industrial and geological events and developments and the inability to insure against all risks, failure of plant, equipment, processes, transportation and other infrastructure to operate as anticipated, compliance with government and environmental regulations, including permitting requirements and anti-bribery legislation, depletion of our reserves, volatile financial markets that may affect our ability to obtain additional financing on acceptable terms, the failure to obtain required approvals or clearances from government authorities on a timely basis, uncertainties related to the geology, continuity, grade and estimates of mineral reserves and resources, and the potential for variations in grade and recovery rates, uncertain costs of reclamation activities, our ability to comply with our pension and other post-retirement obligations, our ability to abide by the covenants in our debt instruments and other material contracts, tax refunds, hedging transactions, as well as the risks discussed under the heading “Risk Factors” in our most recent Annual Information Form.

Should one or more risk, uncertainty, contingency or other factor materialize or should any factor or assumption prove incorrect, actual results could vary materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Accordingly, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. We do not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information after the date of this MD&A or to explain any material difference between subsequent actual events and any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable law.

Note to United States Investors

This MD&A has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the securities laws in effect in Canada, which may differ materially from the requirements of United States securities laws applicable to US issuers.

Qualified Person

The technical and scientific information in this MD&A related to the Constancia mine and Rosemont project has been approved by Cashel Meagher, P. Geo, our Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. The technical and scientific information related to our Manitoba sites and projects (including the Lalor gold zone) contained in this MD&A has been approved by Olivier Tavchandjian, P. Geo, our Vice President, Exploration and Geology. Messrs. Meagher and Tavchandjian are qualified persons pursuant to NI 43-101. For a description of the key assumptions, parameters and methods used to estimate mineral reserves and resources at Hudbay's material properties, as well as data verification procedures and a general discussion of the extent to which the estimates of scientific and technical information may be affected by any known environmental, permitting, legal title, taxation, sociopolitical, marketing or other relevant factors, please see the Technical Reports for our material properties as filed by us on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

The inferred mineral resources referenced in the Lalor Gold Developments section of this MD&A are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them to enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves and included in the mine plan. Inferred mineral resources are subject to greater uncertainty than measured or indicated mineral resources and it cannot be assumed that they will be successfully upgraded to measured or indicated through further drilling.

60