Q4 2026 Paladin Energy Ltd Earnings Call

July 22, 2026

Operator 2: Thank you for standing by, welcome to the Paladin Energy Ltd. June 2026 quarterly results call. All participants are in a listen-only mode. There will be a presentation followed by a question-and-answer session. If you wish to ask a question, you will need to press the star key followed by the number one on your telephone keypad. I would now like to hand the conference over to Paul Hemburrow, CEO. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you for standing by, welcome to the Paladin Energy Ltd. June 2026 Quarterly Results Call. All participants are in a listen-only mode. There will be a presentation followed by a question-and-answer session. If you wish to ask a question, you will need to press the star key followed by the number one on your telephone keypad. I would now like to hand the conference over to Paul Hemburrow, CEO. Please go ahead.

Speaker #1: There will be a presentation, followed by a question-and-answer session. If you wish to ask a question, you will need to press the star key followed by the number 1 on your telephone keypad.

Speaker #1: I would now like to hand the conference over to Paul Hemberrow, CEO. Please go ahead.

Speaker #2: Good morning, everybody, and thank you for joining us today. I have Anna Sudlow, our CFO, with me this morning, and on the line we also have Scott Barber, our COO, and Alex Ryback, our Chief Commercial Officer.

Paul Hemburrow: Good morning, everybody, thank you for joining us today. I have Anna Sudlow, our CFO, with me this morning. On the line, we also have Scott Barber, our COO, and Alex Rybak, our Chief Commercial Officer. There are two areas I want to cover today on the call. First, I'll take you through the June quarterly results and the key achievements from FY26, then I'll move into the FY27 guidance for Langer Heinrich, which builds directly from the operating platform we established throughout this last year. At a high level, FY 2026 was about transforming Langer Heinrich from a restart project into a stable operating uranium mine while laying the foundation through our next phase of growth through Patterson Lake South. I'm particularly pleased to report that we successfully completed the ramp-up of Langer Heinrich mine during the quarter. This was a commitment we made to shareholders.

Paul Hemburrow: Good morning, everybody, thank you for joining us today. I have Anna Sudlow, our CFO, with me this morning. On the line, we also have Scott Barber, our COO, and Alex Rybak, our Chief Commercial Officer. There are two areas I want to cover today on the call. First, I'll take you through the June quarterly results and the key achievements from FY26, then I'll move into the FY27 guidance for q, which builds directly from the operating platform we established throughout this last year. At a high level, FY 2026 was about transforming Langer Heinrich from a restart project into a stable operating uranium mine while laying the foundation through our next phase of growth through Patterson Lake South. I'm particularly pleased to report that we successfully completed the ramp-up of Langer Heinrich mine during the quarter. This was a commitment we made to shareholders.

Speaker #2: There are two areas I want to cover today. On the call, first I'll take you through the June quarterly results and the key achievements from FY26, and then we'll move into the FY27 guidance for Langer Heinrich, which builds directly from the operating platform we established throughout this last year.

Speaker #2: At a high level, FY2026 was about transforming Langer Heinrich from a restart project into a stable, operating uranium mine, while laying the foundation for our next phase of growth through Paterson Lake South.

Speaker #2: I'm particularly pleased to report that we successfully completed the ramp-up of the Langer-Heinrich mine during the quarter. This was a commitment we made to shareholders, and we've now delivered on that commitment.

Paul Hemburrow: We've now delivered on that commitment. For the June quarter, production was 1.23 million pounds of U3O8, bringing full-year production to 4.82 million pounds, right at the upper end of our revised 2026 production guidance range. Sales were strong. We sold 1.35 million pounds during the quarter and 4.35 million pounds for the full year, exceeding the top end of our guidance range. Operationally, the business continued to improve throughout the year. Total mined material increased steadily and reached 7.45 million tonnes in the quarter, the highest quarterly mining rate since the restart. The full mining fleet is now operational and positioned to support our 2027 objectives. Processing performance remained consistent, with plant recovery averaging 90% during the quarter, demonstrating a stable operation and plant performance at the top end of our recovery targets.

Speaker #2: For the June quarter, production was 1.23 million pounds of U3O8, bringing full-year production to 4.82 million pounds, right at the upper end of our revised 2026 production guidance range.

Speaker #2: Sales were strong, and we sold 1.35 million pounds during the quarter and 4.35 million pounds for the full year, exceeding the top end of our guidance range.

Speaker #2: Operationally, the business continues to improve throughout the year. Total mined material increased steadily and reached 7.45 million tonnes in the quarter, the highest quarterly mining rate since the restart.

Speaker #2: The full mining fleet is now operational and positioned to support our 2027 objectives. Processing performance remained consistent, with plant recovery averaging 90% during the quarter, demonstrating a stable operation and plant performance at the top end of our recovery target.

Speaker #2: During the quarter, we achieved an average realized price of $70.60 per pound, with FY26 averaging $70.00 per pound. From a cost perspective, FY26 cost of production was $43.30 per pound, outperforming our guidance range of $44.00 to $48.00 per pound, while quarterly cost increased to $51.60 per pound as a result of the mine development work and transition to full mining activities, as well as mining lower-grade areas in line with our mine plan.

Paul Hemburrow: During the quarter, we achieved an average realized price of $70.60 per pound, with FY26 averaging $70 per pound. From a cost perspective, FY26 cost of production was $43.30 per pound, outperforming our guidance range of $44 to $48 per pound. While quarterly costs increased to $51.60 per pound as a result of the mine development work and transition to full mining activities and mining lower-grade areas in line with our mine plan. The successful completion of ramp-up provides a strong platform as we move into FY27. While Langer Heinrich remains our producing asset today, Patterson Lake South represents a significant component of Paladin's future growth strategy. During the quarter, we reached one of the most important permitting milestones since acquiring the project. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission confirmed that our construction license application had achieved sufficiency status.

Speaker #2: The successful completion of ramp-up provides a strong platform as we move into FY2027. While Langer Heinrich remains our producing asset today, Paterson Lake South represents a significant component of Paladin's future growth strategy.

Speaker #2: During the quarter, we reached one of the most important permitting milestones since acquiring the project. The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission confirmed that our construction license application had achieved sufficiency status.

Speaker #2: This means the application has met the required completeness and technical standards and can now progress through the formal regulatory assessment process. Subsequent to the quarter-end, we signed an administrative protocol with the CNSC, which establishes a targeted pathway aimed at completing construction license hearings by the end of calendar year 2027.

Paul Hemburrow: This means the application has met the required completeness and technical standards and can now progress through the formal regulatory assessment process. Subsequent to the quarter end, we signed an administrative protocol with the CNSC, which establishes a targeted pathway aimed at completing construction license hearing by the end of calendar year 2027. This provides greater clarity around the permitting process and represents another important de-risking milestone. At the same time, our Canadian team continued progressing the FEED study and advancing engineering activities while maintaining strong engagement with indigenous partners and local communities. We also executed a binding term sheet with the Birch Narrows Dene Nation as part of the Mutual Benefits Agreement process, further strengthening our relationship and social license in the region. A highlight during the quarter was the Atlas discovery.

Speaker #2: This provides greater clarity around the permitting process and represents another important de-risking milestone. At the same time, our Canadian team continued progressing the FEED study and advancing engineering activities, while maintaining strong engagement with Indigenous partners and local communities.

Speaker #2: We also executed a binding term sheet with the Virgin Arrows DNA Nation as part of the mutual benefits agreement process, further strengthening our relationship and social license in the region.

Speaker #2: A highlight during the quarter was the ATLAS discovery. ATLAS is a new, high-grade uranium ore body located approximately 3.5 kilometers south of the Triple R deposit at Patterson Lake South.

Paul Hemburrow: Atlas is a new high-grade uranium ore body located approximately 3.5 kilometers south of the Triple R deposit at Patterson Lake South. 7 of 8 exploration holes intersected significant uranium mineralization, confirming the existence of an entirely new mineralized system within the broader Saloon Trend. Importantly, Atlas remains open along strike and at depth. We believe this discovery reinforces the significant exploration potential across the broader PLS land package and supports our view that there are opportunities to enhance the long-term value and development potential of the project beyond what is currently contemplated. We ended the quarter with cash and investments of USD 265 million and an undrawn $70 million revolving credit facility. This strong financial position provides flexibility to continue advancing Patterson Lake South, support our exploration programs, and optimize Langer Heinrich as we enter the next stage of growth.

Speaker #2: Seven of eight exploration holes intersected significant uranium mineralization, confirming the existence of an entirely new mineralized system within the broader Saloon trend. Importantly, ATLAS remains open along strike and at depth.

Speaker #2: We believe this discovery reinforces the significant exploration potential across the broader PLS land package and supports our view that there are opportunities to enhance the long-term value and development potential of the project beyond what is currently contemplated.

Speaker #2: We ended the quarter with cash and investments of $265 million, and an undrawn $70 million revolving credit facility. This strong financial position provides flexibility to continue advancing Paterson Lake South, support our exploration programs, and optimize Langer Heinrich as we enter the next stage of growth.

Speaker #2: So, in summary, the June quarter closed out a year of delivery for Paladin. We successfully completed the ramp-up of Langer Heinrich, met the upper end of the guidance range on production, and exceeded guidance on sales, costs, and cost performance.

Paul Hemburrow: In summary, the June quarter closed out a year of delivery for Paladin. We successfully completed the ramp-up of Langer Heinrich, met the upper end of guidance range on production, and exceeded guidance on sales, costs, and cost performance. We advanced Patterson Lake South through major regulatory milestones, established a clear pathway towards licensing, strengthened indigenous partnerships, and delivered significant exploration discovery at Atlas. That delivery gives us the right platform for 2027. With Langer now through ramp-up, the focus shifts from restart execution to disciplined operating performance, safe production, cost control, mine and plant optimization, and of course, reliable delivery to customers. I will now turn to FY27 guidance for Langer Heinrich. For FY27, we expect Langer Heinrich to produce between 5.1 and 5.6 million pounds of U3O8 on a 100% basis. Sales volumes are expected to be between 4.8 to 5.3 million pounds of U3O8.

Speaker #2: We advanced Paterson Lake South through major regulatory milestones, established a clear pathway toward licensing, strengthened Indigenous partnerships, and delivered significant exploration discovery at ATLAS.

Speaker #2: That delivery gives us the right platform for 2027. With Langer now through ramp-up, the focus shifts from restart execution to disciplined operating performance, safe production, cost control, mine and plant optimization, and, of course, reliable delivery to customers.

Speaker #2: I'll now turn to FY27 guidance for Langer Heinrich. For FY27, we expect Langer Heinrich to produce between 5.1 and 5.6 million pounds of U3O8 on a 100% basis.

Speaker #2: Sales volumes are expected to be between 4.8 and 5.3 million pounds of U3O8. Production will not be evenly weighted across the year. We expect lower production in the first half due to planned maintenance shutdowns, as well as lower grades from the mine in the September and December quarters.

Paul Hemburrow: Production will not be evenly weighted across the year. We expect lower production in H1 due to planned maintenance shutdowns, as well as lower grades from the mine in September and December quarters. Production is expected to improve in H2 as higher ore grade feed to the plant increases. Cost of production is expected to be between $44 and $48 per pound. We expect cost to trend towards the upper end of the range in H1, reflecting lower production volumes and additional cost impact of planned maintenance. It is also important to note that all ore processed in FY27 will be sourced from the mine, following depletion of the previously mined MG3 stockpile. This means longer haul distances compared with FY26, whilst ongoing removal of overburden and waste will continue to open up future mining areas.

Speaker #2: Production is expected to improve in the second half, as higher ore grade feed to the plant increases. Cost of production is expected to be between $44 and $48 per pound.

Speaker #2: We expect cost to trend upward—sorry, we expect cost to trend towards the upper end of the range in the first half, reflecting lower production volumes and the additional cost impact of planned maintenance.

Speaker #2: It's also important to note that all ore processed in FY2027 will be sourced from the mine, following depletion of the previously mined MG3 stockpile.

Speaker #2: This means longer haul distances compared with FY26, while ongoing removal of overburden and waste will continue to open up future mining areas. Operationally, our focus remains on mining and plant optimization through FY27.

Paul Hemburrow: Operationally, our focus remains on mining and plant optimization through FY27. Medium and high-grade ore will be delivered to the processing plant, while lower-grade material will be stockpiled for future processing. This supports improved grade outcomes and provides operational flexibility over the life of mine. We will continue to report actual costs associated with capitalized stripping and the building of low-grade ore stockpiles on a quarterly basis. These items are not included in the cost of production guidance. On capital expenditure at Langer Heinrich is expected to be between $29 million and $35 million for FY27. The key areas of expenditure include Tailing Storage Facility design and construction, process improvement studies, and infill drilling, as well as the completion of selected capital exploration activities deferred from FY26. On sales and pricing, Paladin's contract book continues to provide leverage to a strengthening uranium market.

Speaker #2: Medium- and high-grade ore will be delivered to the processing plant, while lower-grade material will be stockpiled for future processing. This supports improved grade outcomes and provides operational flexibility over the life of mine.

Speaker #2: We'll continue to report actual costs associated with capitalized stripping and the building of low-grade ore stockpiles on a quarterly basis. These items are not included in the cost of production guidance.

Speaker #2: On capital, capital expenditure at Langer-Heinrich is expected to be between $29 million and $35 million US for FY2027. The key areas of expenditure include tailings storage facility design and construction, process improvement studies and in-field drilling, as well as the completion of selected capital exploration activities deferred from FY26.

Speaker #2: On sales and pricing, Paladin's contract book continues to provide leverage to a strengthening uranium market. During FY27, sales are expected to reflect both customer delivery schedules and our intention to repay part of the current uranium product loan balance.

Paul Hemburrow: During FY27, sales are expected to reflect both customer delivery schedules and our intention to repay part of the current uranium product loan balance. As at 30 June 2026, Paladin had 400,000 pounds of U3O8 in outstanding uranium product loans. Consistent with industry practice, we maintain access to short-term uranium product loans and swap facilities to support operational and delivery flexibility. Realized pricing will vary from quarter to quarter, depending on customer delivery nominations, contract pricing mix, individual contract terms, shipping schedules, and prevailing spot prices. Based on the contract book as at 1 July 2026, we have updated the realized price sensitivity table. In summary, FY27 is about disciplined delivery from Langer Heinrich following the successful completion of ramp-up. We have provided clear guidance on production costs, capital, and sales, while retaining the flexibility to manage quarter-on-quarter movements in production and deliveries.

Speaker #2: As at 30 June 2026, Paladin had $400,000 of U3O8 and outstanding uranium product loans. Consistent with industry practice, we maintain access to short-term uranium product loan and swap facilities for flexibility.

Speaker #2: Realized pricing will vary from quarter to quarter depending on customer delivery nominations, contract pricing mix, individual contract terms, shipping schedules, and prevailing spot prices.

Speaker #2: Based on the contract book, as at 1 July 2026, we have updated the realized price sensitivity table. In summary, FY27 is about disciplined delivery from Langer-Heinrich following the successful completion of ramp-up.

Speaker #2: We have provided clear guidance on production cost, capital, and sales, while retaining the flexibility to manage quarter-on-quarter movements in production and deliveries. We remain focused on safe operations, reliable production, disciplined cost management, and leveraging our contract book, as the uranium market continues to strengthen.

Paul Hemburrow: We remain focused on safe operations, reliable production, disciplined cost management, and leveraging our contract book as the uranium market continues to strengthen. With that, I am happy to take any questions.

Speaker #2: And with that, I'm happy to take any questions.

Speaker #1: Thank you. If you wish to ask a question, please press star 1 on your telephone and wait for your name to be announced. If you wish to cancel your request, please press star 2.

Operator 2: Thank you. If you wish to ask a question, please press star one on your telephone and wait for your name to be announced. If you wish to cancel your request, please press star two. If you're on a speakerphone, please pick up the handset to ask your question. Your first question comes from Alistair Rankin with RBC. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you. If you wish to ask a question, please press star one on your telephone and wait for your name to be announced. If you wish to cancel your request, please press star two. If you're on a speakerphone, please pick up the handset to ask your question. Your first question comes from Alistair Rankin with RBC. Please go ahead.

Speaker #1: If you're on a speakerphone, please pick up the handset to ask your question. Your first question comes from Alistair Rankin with RBC. Please go ahead.

Speaker #3: All right. Thanks, Paul, Scott, and Alex, and the broader team, for taking my question. Just firstly, on Langer, you mentioned the maintenance work in the first half of FY27.

Alistair Rankin: Hey, thanks, Paul, Scott, Anna, and Alex and the broader team for taking my question. Just firstly on Langer. You mentioned the maintenance work in the H1 of FY27. Can you just confirm what you're actually doing there? Is this something that is just a periodic piece of maintenance you have to do, or is it something a little bit more structural?

Speaker #3: Can you just confirm what you're actually doing there? Is this something that is just a periodic piece of maintenance you have to do, or is it something a little bit more structural?

Speaker #2: Yeah, thanks, Alistair. It's really just periodic, planned, preventative maintenance work. So, typically in these sorts of plants, you have wear and tear on things like the scrubbers, crushing circuits, and we're also updating our furnace in the final packaging and recovery plant.

Paul Hemburrow: Yeah, thanks, Alistair. It's really just periodic planned preventative maintenance work. Typically in these sorts of plants, you have wear and tear on things like the scrubbers, crushing circuit, and we're also updating our furnace in the final packaging and recovery plant. It's all planned preventative work.

Speaker #2: So it's all planned preventative work.

Speaker #3: Okay, understood. That's clear. And then, just also on Langer, the pit performance at the J pit so far—you said you're looking to lift to high-grade ore for the second half of FY27.

Alistair Rankin: Okay. Understood. That's clear. Just also on Langer, the pit performance at the J-pit so far. You said you're looking to lift to higher-grade ore for the H2 of FY27. I guess what do you need to do between now and then to achieve that?

Speaker #3: So, I guess, what do you need to do between now and then to sort of achieve that?

Speaker #2: Yeah, I might hand over to Scott to answer that one thing, Alastair.

Paul Hemburrow: Yeah. I might hand over to Scott and he can say a few things.

Speaker #4: Sure. Thanks, Paul. Basically, we've got all of our mining equipment in the pit right now and are developing a few different mining fronts. Some of the material is coming out as high grade right now, and the other material is still developing.

Scott Barber: Sure. Thanks, Paul. Basically, we've got all of our mining equipment in the pit right now and are developing a few different mining fronts. Some of the material is coming out as high-grade right now, the other material is still developing. We've got multiple levels of grade coming out of the pit. The next six months will essentially see us stabilize the feed that's going to be going into the mill as more high-grade, medium, and high-grade. Whereas for right now and the last quarter, we're still in that upper level of weathered and lower-grade material. Basically, it's just continuing to mine and develop the J-pit.

Speaker #4: We've got multiple levels of grade coming out of the pit. The next six months will essentially see us stabilize the feed that's going to be going into the mill, as more high-grade, medium, and high-grade material comes through.

Speaker #4: Whereas for right now and the last quarter, we're still in that upper level of weathered and lower-grade material. So, basically, it's just continuing to mine and develop the J pit.

Speaker #3: Okay. And then I might just sneak in one quick one on PLS. Interesting you got that agreement with the CNSC. I understand it's non-binding, but is this something they've done before, or is this the CNSC acknowledging that they want to try to speed up these processes to get these construction licenses through a bit faster?

Alistair Rankin: Okay. I might just sneak in one quick one on PLS. Interesting you got that agreement with the CNSC. I understand it's non-binding, is this something they've done before or is this the CNSC acknowledging that they want to try to speed up these processes to get these construction licenses through a bit faster?

Speaker #2: Yeah, that's a really good question. Alistair, I was in Ottawa recently, spoke to a number of government departments, and everyone is really keen on advancing uranium projects.

Paul Hemburrow: Yeah, that's a really good question. Elsa, I was in Ottawa recently, spoke to a number of government departments, everyone is really keen on advancing uranium projects, CNSC are trying their best to support them as well. I met with the president of CNSC, they're very keen to make sure that the right work is done to help us deliver the project according to the schedule that we published. It's really a concerted effort by the Canadian government to get these projects up and running as efficiently as possible.

Speaker #2: And CNSC are trying their best to support them as well. So I met with the president of CNSC, and they're very keen to make sure that the right work is done to help us deliver the project according to the schedule that we published.

Speaker #2: So it's really a concerted effort by the Canadian government to get these projects up and running as efficiently as possible.

Speaker #3: Good. Thank you.

Alistair Rankin: Good. Thank you.

Speaker #1: Thank you. Your next question comes from Hugo Nicolacci with Goldman Sachs. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: Thank you. Your next question comes from Hugo Nicolaci with Goldman Sachs. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you. Your next question comes from Hugo Nicolaci with Goldman Sachs. Please go ahead.

Speaker #5: Good morning, Paul. I'm on the team. Thanks for the update today. Look, first one on the missing pieces around CAPEX for FY27. From the guidance, just firstly at Langer, that you spent $56 million on stripping and low-grade stockpiling in FY26, but you don't guide that on a forward basis.

Hugo Nicolaci: Look, good morning, Paul, Anna, and team. Thanks for the update today. Look, first one on the missing pieces around CapEx for FY27. From the guidance, just firstly at Langer, that you spent $56 million on stripping and low-grade stockpiling in FY26, but you don't guide that on a forward basis. Given that your strip ratio is probably flat to slightly higher next year, your plant maintenance, maybe you build a little bit of stockpiles. Is it fair to assume that $56 million is higher in FY27?

Speaker #5: Given that your strip ratio is probably flat to slightly higher next year, you plan maintenance, maybe you build a little bit of stockpiles. Is it fair to assume that $56 million is higher in FY27?

Anna Sudlow: Look, we're obviously, Hugh, not guiding on those numbers. They will be variable quarter to quarter. We will give you actuals on a quarterly basis. I think if you look at our Q4 FY26 outcomes, that's not an unreasonable representation going forward.

Speaker #2: Look, we're obviously not guiding on those numbers. They will be variable quarter to quarter. We will give you actuals on a quarterly basis.

Speaker #2: I think if you look at our Q4 FY26 outcomes, that's not an unreasonable representation going forward.

Speaker #5: Got it, that's helpful. And then also on CAPEX, but on Paterson Lake—how much of the $115 million pre-FID spend that you were planning on spending before the end of calendar '27 do you expect to spend in FY27?

Hugo Nicolaci: Got it. That's helpful. Also on CapEx, on Patterson Lake. How much of the $115 million pre-FEED spend that you were planning on spending before the end of calendar 2027 do you expect to spend in FY2027?

Speaker #2: Yeah. Again, Hugh, we haven't guided on that number. We've said in our quarterly that we've spent $20 million to date. Of that amount that we disclosed in the use of funds, I can say that you can expect those costs to increase over the 18-month period.

Anna Sudlow: Yeah, again, Hugh, we haven't guided on that number. We've said in our quarterly that we've spent 20 to date of that amount that we disclosed in the use of funds. I can say that you can expect those costs to increase over the 18-month period. It'll definitely be weighted into H1 FY2028.

Speaker #2: So, it'll definitely be weighted into half one, FY2028.

Speaker #5: Got it, that's helpful. And then, just if I could squeeze in a third—just on the pricing sensitivity—I appreciate the updated table there.

Hugo Nicolaci: Got it. That's helpful. Just, I guess within the third, just on the pricing sensitivity. Look, appreciate the updated table there. I just wanted to dig into the comment in the footnotes that the sensitivity table takes into account the flexibility under your contract terms. Does that mean that in that table, you've assumed that you'll sell more volume if prices are higher? Is our math broadly right that if you're selling roughly 2 million pounds under legacy contracts at mid sixties a pound, to sort of backsolve into that pricing sensitivity?

Speaker #5: I just wanted to dig into the comment in the footnote that the sensitivity table takes into account the flexibility under your contract terms. Does that mean that, in that table, you've assumed that you'll sell more volume if prices are higher?

Speaker #5: And is our math broadly right that if you're selling roughly 2 million pounds under legacy contracts, at sort of mid-$60s per pound, can we sort of back-solve into that pricing sensitivity?

Speaker #2: That's a question for you, Alex.

Paul Hemburrow: That's a question for you, Alex.

Speaker #4: Thanks, Paul. Just on the first part, we've assumed we've run that sensitivity table on the basis of a midpoint of the sales range, which is 5.05 million pounds.

Alex Rybak: Thanks, Paul. On the first part, we've run that sensitivity table on the basis of a midpoint of the sales range, which is 5.5 million pounds. We're essentially assuming nominal contract volumes, but obviously some contract volumes do have flexibility. Where those contracts are in the money, we've assumed that those flex options will be exercised by the utility. Sorry, could you just clarify the second part of the question?

Speaker #4: And we're essentially assuming nominal contract volumes, but obviously, some contract volumes do have flexibility. Where those contracts are in the money, we've assumed that those flex options will be exercised by the utility.

Speaker #4: And sorry, could you just clarify the second part of the question?

Speaker #5: It was more just sense-checking the math, that if you're delivering a bit over 2 million pounds under those fixed legacy agreements, then the pricing on those agreements must be sort of in the mid-60s today.

Hugo Nicolaci: It was more just sense-checking the math that if you're delivering a bit over 2 million pounds under the fixed legacy agreements, that pricing on those agreements must be in the mid-60s today. Is that what that table assumes?

Speaker #5: Is that what that table assumes?

Speaker #4: Yeah, look, I mean, we're obviously not providing the pricing on a price-mix basis, but on average, I think if you look at that sensitivity table, you're pretty much—I think you're on the right track.

Alex Rybak: Yeah, look, we're obviously not providing the pricing on a price mix basis. On average, I think if you look at that sensitivity table, I think you're on the right track. You can pretty much work out what the base escalated and fixed price contract pricing is implied within that book.

Speaker #4: You can pretty much work out what the base, escalated, and fixed price contract pricing is implied within that book.

Speaker #5: Got it. Thanks, guys. And then just lastly, if I can—just apologies if I missed it, if you put out the cash flow piece separately today—but the $265 million cash and investments, how much of that is actually cash?

Hugo Nicolaci: Got it. Thanks, guys. Just lastly, apologies if I've missed, if you put out a cash flow piece separately today, but the $255 cash and investments, how much of that is actually cash?

Speaker #2: Oh, the 265?

Anna Sudlow: Of the $265?

Speaker #5: Yeah.

Hugo Nicolaci: Yeah.

Speaker #2: Yeah, it's all cash, other than funds held in term deposits.

Anna Sudlow: Yeah. It's all cash other than funds held in term deposits.

Speaker #5: Got it. That's helpful. Thanks, guys. I'll pass it on.

Hugo Nicolaci: Got it. That's helpful. Thanks, guys. Pass on.

Speaker #1: Thank you. Your next question comes from Daniel Roden with Jefferies. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: Thank you. Your next question comes from Daniel Rhoden with Jefferies. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you. Your next question comes from Daniel Rhoden with Jefferies. Please go ahead.

Speaker #6: Hey, guys. I'm next for my question. I just wanted to start, first of all, by following up on the H1 and H2 productions.

Daniel Rhoden: G'day, guys. Thanks for taking my question. I just wanted to start, first of all, just with following up on the H1, H2 production split. I know you talked about it, but just wanted to get a better sense on the H2 exit rates and, looking forward into FY28 and beyond, what that implies on what a midpoint annual production rate would be over the life of mine. Are you able to articulate and clarify what that would look like, please?

Daniel Roden: G'day, guys. Thanks for taking my question. I just wanted to start, first of all, just with following up on the H1, H2 production split. I know you talked about it, but just wanted to get a better sense on the H2 exit rates and, looking forward into FY28 and beyond, what that implies on what a midpoint annual production rate would be over the life of mine. Are you able to articulate and clarify what that would look like, please?

Speaker #6: We've only talked about it, but I just wanted to get a better sense on the, I guess, the half-two exit rates and, I guess, kind of looking forward into FY28 and beyond—what that implies on what a, I guess, a midpoint annual production rate would be over the life of mine.

Speaker #6: Are you able to articulate and clarify what that would look like?

Paul Hemburrow: That's a good question, Daniel. What we've done is provided annual guidance as we did last year. What will happen in the year to come is that with the two planned maintenance shuts and development of that J pit, according to the mine sequence, we have slightly lower grades in that H1 and about a week less production on each quarter, plus or minus. It is going to be a game of two halves. What we're not going to do is guide on a quarter-by-quarter basis, what we will do is be absolutely transparent, as we have been in the last 12, 18 months, on our actual performance at the end of each quarter. We do expect a fairly significant uplift in the H2 of the year. The mine plan does show absolutely solid grades coming through for that H2.

Speaker #2: That's a good question, Daniel. What we've done is provide an annual guidance, as we did last year. What will happen in the years to come is that, with the two planned maintenance shuts and development of that JPIT according to the mine sequence, we have slightly lower grades in that first half and about a week less production in each quarter.

Speaker #2: Plus or minus, it is going to be a game of two halves. What we're not going to do is guide on a quarter-by-quarter basis.

Speaker #2: What we will do is be absolutely transparent, as we have been in the last 12 to 18 months, on our actual performance at the end of each quarter.

Speaker #2: But we do expect a fairly significant uplift in the second half of the year. The mine plan does show absolutely solid grades coming through for that second half.

Speaker #2: So our plan is to stick to the plan, do the shuts properly, mine the ore as it comes in sequence, exercise a high level of operating discipline, manage our costs as best we can, and deliver on the annual targets.

Paul Hemburrow: Our plan is to stick to the plan, do the shuts properly, mine the ore as it comes in sequence, exercise a high level of operating discipline, manage our costs as best we can, and deliver on the annual target. I know I haven't answered your question directly, we're committed to the guidance range that we have set for production.

Speaker #2: So, I know I haven't answered your question directly, but we're committed to the guidance range that we have set for production.

Speaker #6: Look, no, that makes sense. I appreciate the colour there. Thanks, mate. I just wanted to touch on—as well, I know it's not in the FY27 guidance or thresholds—but in FY28, if I look back at your restart plan, the last mine plan, you were expecting to do a little pre-work on HPIT and TSF1 relocation, kind of at the end of FY27.

Daniel Rhoden: No, that makes sense. I appreciate the color there.

Daniel Roden: No, that makes sense. I appreciate the color there.

Paul Hemburrow: Thanks, mate.

Daniel Rhoden: Just wanted to touch on as well, I know it's not in our FY27 guidance, I guess, thresholds, but in FY28, if I look back at your restart plan and life of mine plan, you are expecting to do a lot of pre-work on H pit and TSF1 relocation at the end of FY27 and start of FY28. I just wanted to get a bit of color and commentary on, are you seeing anything in, I guess, the life of mine process that would either accelerate or defer works going into the H pit and TSF1 relocation and just noting that H pit is a pretty meaningful step-up in strip ratio. On the design tables, it goes to 4.1 from J pit, which is 1.8 at the moment.

Daniel Roden: Just wanted to touch on as well, I know it's not in our FY27 guidance, I guess, thresholds, but in FY28, if I look back at your restart plan and life of mine plan, you are expecting to do a lot of pre-work on H pit and TSF1 relocation at the end of FY27 and start of FY28. I just wanted to get a bit of color and commentary on, are you seeing anything in, I guess, the life of mine process that would either accelerate or defer works going into the H pit and TSF1 relocation and just noting that H pit is a pretty meaningful step-up in strip ratio. On the design tables, it goes to 4.1 from J pit, which is 1.8 at the moment.

Speaker #6: And kind of start of FY28, I just wanted to get a bit of colour and commentary on whether you are seeing anything in, I guess, the life-of-mine process that would either accelerate or defer works going into the HPIT and TSF1 relocation. And just kind of noting that HPIT is a pretty meaningful step up in strip ratio, and on the disclosed tables, it goes to 4.1 from JPIT, which is 1.8 at the moment.

Speaker #6: So just, yeah, I guess, are you seeing that inflection point still in the same process, or is there anything that you're seeing that changes that kind of sequencing?

Daniel Rhoden: Just, yeah, I guess, are you seeing that inflection point still in the same process, or is there anything that you're seeing that changes that kind of sequencing?

Daniel Roden: Just, yeah, I guess, are you seeing that inflection point still in the same process, or is there anything that you're seeing that changes that kind of sequencing?

Speaker #2: That's one for you, Scott.

Paul Hemburrow: That's one for you, Scott.

Speaker #4: Yeah, thanks for that. I think that the best way I can answer that is that the TSF strategy, with our TSF6 lift that we’re currently doing right now, and then we will be moving into the HPIT early in next year to start stripping that.

Scott Barber: Yeah, thanks for that. I think that the best way I can answer that is that the TSF strategy with our TSF6 lift that we're currently doing right now, then we will be moving into the H pit early in next year to start stripping that. That would be the next source once J is depleted. That becomes a long-term tailings facility as well. The H pit will be fully mined out over a few years, then that becomes one of our tailings ponds. The TSF strategy is constantly being looked at based on volumetrics and what we actually need. We've moved the TSF1 relocation out a little bit, and that's to allow the mining in J and H pit to progress the best possible and most economic. Does that answer your question?

Speaker #4: That would be the next source once J is depleted. That becomes a long-term tailings facility as well. So, the HPIT will be fully mined out over a few years, and then that becomes one of our tailings ponds.

Speaker #4: The TSF strategy is constantly being reviewed based on volumetrics and what we actually need. We've moved the TSF1 relocation out a little bit, and that's to allow the mining in J and H Pits to progress in the best possible and most economic way.

Speaker #4: Does that answer your question?

Speaker #6: Yeah, just a really quick follow-up—and I'm sorry, I probably asked it poorly—but I guess, as part of the TSF1 relocation and, I guess, HPIT pre-strip, are they included in the back end of FY27 guidance, or is that exclusively an FY28 item?

Daniel Rhoden: Yep. No, mate. Just a really quick follow-up, and sorry, I probably asked it poorly, but, I guess, is part of the TSF1 relocation and, I guess, H pit pre-strip, are they included in the back end of FY27 guidance, or is that exclusively an FY28 item?

Daniel Roden: Yep. No, mate. Just a really quick follow-up, and sorry, I probably asked it poorly, but, I guess, is part of the TSF1 relocation and, I guess, H pit pre-strip, are they included in the back end of FY27 guidance, or is that exclusively an FY28 item?

Speaker #4: It's not in FY27. It would be in FY28 and beyond.

Scott Barber: It's not in FY27. It would be in FY28 and beyond.

Speaker #6: Sorry. Thanks for the colour. I'll pass it on. Thanks.

Daniel Rhoden: Sorry. Thanks for the color help, Scott. Thanks.

Daniel Roden: Sorry. Thanks for the color help, Scott. Thanks.

Speaker #1: Thank you. Your next question comes from Branca Skočić with JPMorgan. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: Thank you. Your next question comes from Branko Skocic with J.P. Morgan. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you. Your next question comes from Branko Skocic with J.P. Morgan. Please go ahead.

Speaker #7: Yeah. Morning, guys. Thanks for your time. Plant recovery is where it’s strong again, in that 90s range. Is there any reason we shouldn’t be assuming recovery stays in the low to mid-90s moving forward, particularly as grades start to lift?

Branko Skočić: Yeah, morning, guys. Thanks for your time. Plant recoveries were strong again in that 90s range. Is there any reason we shouldn't be assuming recoveries stay in the low to mid-90s moving forward, particularly as grades start to lift?

Branko Skocic: Yeah, morning, guys. Thanks for your time. Plant recoveries were strong again in that 90s range. Is there any reason we shouldn't be assuming recoveries stay in the low to mid-90s moving forward, particularly as grades start to lift?

Speaker #2: Yeah, thanks for the question. Our typical target range for recovery is 85 to 90, and when we have stable conditions, I'm actually really happy with anything within that range.

Paul Hemburrow: Yeah, thanks for the question. Our typical target range for recovery is 85% to 90%. When we have stable conditions, I'm actually really happy with anything within that range. Above that range is more difficult to maintain continuous operations. It's always a balance, too. We'll continue to operate as stably as we can, and if we stay at that upper end of our target range, I'll be really happy.

Speaker #2: Above that range, it is more difficult to maintain continuous operations. So it's always a balance, too. We'll continue to operate as stably as we can.

Speaker #2: And if we stay at that upper end of our target range, I'll be really happy.

Speaker #7: And just a final question from my end, just on the production versus sales weighting. I understand the prepayment coming into this, but should we expect the two to, I guess, closely match moving forward?

Branko Skočić: Just a final question from my end, just on the production versus sales waiting. I understand the prepayment coming into this, should we expect the two to, I guess, closely match moving forward? I'm thinking to 2028 onwards, are we still expecting a bit of a mismatch medium-term here?

Branko Skocic: Just a final question from my end, just on the production versus sales waiting. I understand the prepayment coming into this, should we expect the two to, I guess, closely match moving forward? I'm thinking to 2028 onwards, are we still expecting a bit of a mismatch medium-term here?

Speaker #7: I'm thinking to 2028 onwards, or are we still expecting a bit of a mismatch mid-term here?

Anna Sudlow: I missed the first part of your question, Branko, I think if it's around the working capital cycle and the kind of movement quarter to quarter, we are going to see ongoing ups and downs quarter to quarter. That's really just a function of the working capital cycle and the shipping schedule, and the particular deliveries in the quarter. I think you'll continue to see that movement quarter to quarter.

Speaker #2: I missed the first part of your question, Rankin, but I think if it's around the working capital cycle and the kind of movement quarter to quarter, we are going to see ongoing ups and downs quarter to quarter.

Speaker #2: That's really just a function of the working capital cycle and the shipping schedule, and the particular deliveries in the quarter. So I think you'll continue to see that movement quarter to quarter.

Speaker #7: I think it was more just on the annual numbers for the last couple of years you’ve been guiding—sales less than production. And I guess during ramp-up, that also makes sense.

Branko Skočić: I think it was more just on the annual numbers. The last couple of years, you've been guiding sales less than production, and I guess during ramp up, that also makes sense. When we think about FY28 onwards, should we expect the two on an annual basis to closely match? Or should we still be expecting a bit of a mismatch?

Branko Skocic: I think it was more just on the annual numbers. The last couple of years, you've been guiding sales less than production, and I guess during ramp up, that also makes sense. When we think about FY28 onwards, should we expect the two on an annual basis to closely match? Or should we still be expecting a bit of a mismatch?

Speaker #7: But when we think about FY28 onwards, should we expect the two on an annual basis to closely match, or should we still be expecting a bit of a mismatch?

Speaker #2: I think, Rankin, there's always going to be a slight mismatch because it is, as I said, a function of those shipping schedules. I mean, I think theoretically you would expect, over the years as we kind of get into the cycle, that they should be more closely aligned.

Anna Sudlow: I think, Branko, there's always going to be a slight mismatch because it is, as I said, a function of those shipping schedules. I think, theoretically, you would expect over the years as we kind of get into the cycle, that they should be more closely aligned. I think what we're also seeing this year is.

Speaker #2: I think what we're also seeing this year is, in the guidance, the repayment of the loan, which is reducing—increasing—that gap between the two as well.

Paul Hemburrow: In the guidance, the repayment of the loan, which is increasing that gap between the two as well.

Anna Sudlow: In the guidance, the repayment of the loan, which is increasing that gap between the two as well.

Speaker #7: Right. Makes sense. Thank you.

Branko Skočić: That makes sense. Thank you.

Branko Skocic: That makes sense. Thank you.

Speaker #1: Thank you. Your next question comes from James Billen with CGS. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: Thank you. Your next question comes from James Bullen with CGS. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you. Your next question comes from James Bullen with CGS. Please go ahead.

Speaker #3: Good morning, Paul and team, and thank you for taking my question. Just on PLS—BHP has been picking up tenements that are pretty proximal to your project.

James Bullen: Good morning, Paul and team, and thank you for taking my question. Just on PLS. BHP has been picking up tenements that's pretty proximal to your project. I know you've got a lot of prospectivity within your current permits, and that's clear from the resource atlas. Are you looking at picking up additional acreage in that area?

Speaker #3: I know you've got a lot of prospectivity within your current permits, and that's clear from the result at Atlas. But are you looking at picking up additional acreage in that area?

Speaker #2: Thanks for the question, James. So, I have good neighbours, and what I think it does show is I think it demonstrates the prospectivity of the region, and what's good for us is we've got absolutely fantastic ground.

Paul Hemburrow: Thanks for the question, James. It's always have good neighbors. What I think it does show is, I think it demonstrates the prospectivity of the region. What's good for us is we've got absolutely fantastic ground. There's loads of potential in the ground that we do have. When the team in Saskatchewan puts holes in the ground, we're having a high level of success. Never say never to pegging more ground. We already have a lot of highly prospective ground that is demonstrating the capacity to produce more and more value for PLS.

Speaker #2: We've got a lot of ground that's still unexplored. There's loads of potential in the ground that we do have. And when the team in Saskatchewan puts holes in the ground, we're having a high level of success.

Speaker #2: So, never say never to pegging more ground. But we already have a lot of highly prospective ground that is demonstrating the capacity to produce more and more value for PLS.

Speaker #3: Yeah, understood. And congrats on getting the Birch Narrows Denomination MBA in place. How are you going also with MNS, and are they the final one that you have to put in place?

James Bullen: Yeah, understood. Congrats on getting the Birch Narrows Dene Nation MBA in place. How are you going also with MNS, are they the final one that you have to put in place?

Speaker #2: Yeah. First of all, it's a binding term sheet. We haven't quite got the MVA yet, but that's the obvious next step. So, as you rightly point out, James, there are four First Nations groups in the area where we operate.

Paul Hemburrow: Yeah. First of all, it's a binding term sheet. We haven't quite got the MBA yet, that's the obvious next step. As you rightly point out, James, there are four First Nations groups in the area where we operate, we've now completed two of those MBAs, now we have the binding term sheet with Birch Narrows. We have a really good relationship with Métis. We're working with them very closely. In due course, we'll have an agreement with the remaining two groups. What we do think is important is making sure that the relationships that we have with them are by definition mutually beneficial and sustainable, we're committed to supporting the First Nations groups as well as other stakeholders in the regions where we operate.

Speaker #2: And we've now completed two of those MBAs, and now we have the binding term sheet with Birch Narrows. We have a really good relationship with MADI.

Speaker #2: We're working with them very closely, and in due course, we will have an agreement with the remaining two groups. What we do think is important is making sure that the relationships that we have with them are, by definition, mutually beneficial and sustainable.

Speaker #2: And we're committed to supporting the First Nations groups, as well as other stakeholders in the regions where we operate.

Speaker #3: Thank you very much. Those are my questions.

James Bullen: Thank you very much. That's my questions.

Speaker #1: Thank you. Your next question comes from Glen Lorcock with Barrenjoey. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: Thank you. Your next question comes from Glyn Lawcock with Barrenjoey. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you. Your next question comes from Glyn Lawcock with Barrenjoey. Please go ahead.

Speaker #7: Good morning, Paul. Just going back to Lang & Heinrich guidance for '27, just on the production—can you help me just think about how that's made up?

Glyn Lawcock: Good morning, Paul. Just going back to Langer Heinrich guidance for 2027, just on the production. Can you help me just think about how that's made up? Just throughput grade recovery. If I think about it, you've been running, I think it's 4.8 million tons of throughput. Your recovery's now up around 90%, but you now move into a pit that's got the high grade and medium grade component, which is about 570 PPM in grade. Because I'm assuming you'll put the rest of the low grade to the waste stockpile, sorry. How do I think about that? You've also said you're looking at optimization. Where's the best lever you can pull to flex that volume and maybe do better as you have done through 2026 as well? Thanks.

Speaker #7: Just throughput, grade, recovery. I mean, if I think about it, you've been running, I think, 4.8 million tonnes of throughput. Your recovery is now up around 90.

Speaker #7: But you're now moving into a pit that's got the high-grade and medium-grade component, which is about 570 ppm in grade. I'm assuming you'll put the rest of the low grade to the waste dump, or to your stockpile, sorry.

Speaker #7: How should I think about that? And then you've also said you're looking at optimisation. Where's the best lever you can pull to flex that volume and maybe do better, as you have done through Q2 2026 as well?

Speaker #7: Thanks.

Speaker #2: They’re really good questions, Glenn, which I’m probably going to try and dodge most of. So, the key levers, of course, are grade, recovery, and throughput.

Paul Hemburrow: They're really good questions, Glyn, of which I'm probably going to try and dodge most of them. The key levers, of course, are grade, recovery, and throughput. I think what we've done is we've demonstrated the ability to operate the plant very, very consistently. Of course, the grade is highly dependent on what presents itself in the pit. We'll operate the pit as efficiently as we can from a trucking perspective. Whatever the grade comes out is whatever the grade that comes out, besides the fact that we can dilute it below and have it change the cut-offs. That will provide us with the opportunity to operate the plant in a fairly stable way, and get those recoveries in the high 80s, and maybe even sort of the low 90s.

Speaker #2: And I think what we've done is we've demonstrated the ability to operate the plan very, very consistently. But of course, the grade is highly dependent on what presents itself in the pit.

Speaker #2: So we'll operate the pit as efficiently as we can from a trucking perspective. Whatever the grade comes out is whatever the grade that comes out.

Speaker #2: Besides the fact that we can divert a flow and have it change the cutoff, that will provide us with the opportunity to operate the plant in a fairly stable way.

Speaker #2: And get those recoveries in the high 80s and maybe even sort of the low 90s. So, like every other place I know that Scott Barber and I have worked, you're always working on optimizations and ways to improve.

Paul Hemburrow: Like every other place, I know that Scott Barber and I have worked, you're always working on optimizations and ways to improve. The biggest lever that we've got is the grade. The second is, of course, throughput. Throughput is complicated by the fact that we have varying ore feed types, fine, coarse. We've talked about this on a number of occasions before, finding the best blend that gives us the best throughput, and we'll continue to optimize that blend for both throughput and grade as we progress. What we've done is we've demonstrated the ability to be able to do that so far. What we've got now, though, is we've got 100% of the mining fleet and what we delivered this year was 7.48 million tons of total movement.

Speaker #2: The biggest lever that we've got is the grade. And the second is, of course, throughput. Throughput is complicated by the fact that we have varying ore feed types—fine, coarse—and we've talked about this on a number of occasions before.

Speaker #2: But finding the best blend that gives us the best throughput, and we'll continue to optimise that blend for both throughput and grade as we progress.

Speaker #2: But what we've done is we've demonstrated the ability to be able to do that so far. What we've got now, though, is we've got 100% of the mining fleet, and what we delivered this year was 7.48 million tonnes of total movement.

Speaker #2: So that gives us a bit of flexibility above what we had last year to deliver more tonnes to the crusher. So, I think I've managed to dodge most of your questions, and I'm unlikely to give you any more detail than that.

Paul Hemburrow: That gives us a bit of flexibility above what we had last year to deliver more tons to the crusher. I think I've managed to dodge most of your questions, and I'm unlikely to give any more detail than that.

Speaker #3: Maybe just—if I can push you a little bit, though—your resource statement for the J pit had a high zone and a mid-grade zone of about 14 million tonnes at about 570 ppm.

Glyn Lawcock: Maybe just if I can push you a little bit, though. Your resource statement for the J pit had a high zone and a mid-grade zone of about 14 million tons at about 570 ppm. Obviously, you've drilled it. You've not mined it yet. Is there anything to suggest, so far what you've seen, that the resources you provided for the pit are not coming through as expected?

Speaker #3: Obviously, you've drilled it. You probably haven't mined it yet. But is there anything to suggest, so far from what you've seen, that these resources you provided for the pit are not coming through as expected?

Speaker #2: All right. The reconciliations are actually very good. So the challenge, of course, is when does it present itself? Yeah, so the sequence actually is going to determine how the year flows, which is why it's going to be a game of absolutely too hard.

Paul Hemburrow: The reconciliation is actually very good. The challenge, of course, is when does it present itself? The sequence actually is going to determine how the year flows, which is why it's going to be a game of absolutely two halves with slightly lower grades presenting in H1 with the reduction in number of operating days, high grades in H2 with absolute maximum number of operating days. The pit is what it is. The reconciliations are about right. Yeah.

Speaker #2: With slightly lower grades presenting in the first half, with the reduction in number of operating days, high grades in the second half, with absolute maximum number of operating days—so the pit is what it is.

Speaker #2: And the reconciliations are about right, so yeah.

Speaker #3: No worries, Paul. I think I've pushed you as far as I can. But one other question, now moving to Canada, just on PLS and assuming it all goes to the new plan—which is you get the hearings done by the end of calendar '27—what's the timeline look like beyond that, then?

Glyn Lawcock: No worries, Paul. I think I've pushed you as far as I can. One other question, but now moving to Canada, just on PLS. Assuming it all goes to the new plan, which is you get the hearings done by the end of calendar 2027, what's the timeline look like beyond that then? What's left? If we think through it, when could you FID and start construction if you get this timeline of an end of 2027 hearings completed?

Speaker #3: What's left? And if we think through it, when could you FID and start construction if you get this timeline of an end-of-'27 hearings completed?

Speaker #2: Yeah, so there's a few things to do over the next 18 months. Of course, thinking about our financing options, starting to populate the contract book, and we get to FID.

Paul Hemburrow: Yeah. There's a few things to do. Over the next 18 months, of course, thinking about our financing options, starting to populate the contract book. We get to FID. Construction window is heavily dependent on weather. Assuming it all goes to plan, I still believe that the 2031 first production is realistic and achievable.

Speaker #2: The construction window is heavily dependent on the weather. So, assuming it all goes to plan, I still believe that first production in 2031 is realistic and achievable.

Speaker #3: And sorry, what would that mean? You start construction when to achieve first production in 2031?

Glyn Lawcock: Sorry, what would that mean? You start construction when to achieve first production in 2031?

Paul Hemburrow: 2028.

Speaker #2: 2028.

Speaker #3: All right. Thanks very much.

Glyn Lawcock: All right. Thanks very much.

Speaker #1: Thank you. Your next question comes from Dim Arya Singer with UBS. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: Thank you. Your next question comes from Dim Ariasinghe with UBS. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you. Your next question comes from Dim Ariasinghe with UBS. Please go ahead.

Speaker #3: Thanks, Paul. Just, I guess on PLS, you do have the strategy day coming up. Can you give us any granularity as to what to expect there, and maybe what to watch out for?

Dim Ariasinghe: Thanks, Paul. Just, I guess, on PLS. You do have the strategy day coming up. Can you give us any granularity as to what to expect there and maybe what to watch out for?

Dim Ariyasinghe: Thanks, Paul. Just, I guess, on PLS. You do have the strategy day coming up. Can you give us any granularity as to what to expect there and maybe what to watch out for?

Speaker #2: All right. Sorry, Tim. Do you mean the investor day?

Paul Hemburrow: Oh, sorry, Dim. Do you mean the investor day?

Speaker #3: Yep. Yep. Yeah.

Dim Ariasinghe: Yep. Yeah.

Dim Ariyasinghe: Yep. Yeah.

Paul Hemburrow: There's nothing really. By then, we should actually be past the next quarter. I guess we'll continue working through Langer performance, continue working through the CNSC process, continue working with First Nations groups.

Speaker #2: So there's nothing really by then. We should actually be past the next quarter. I guess we'll continue working—well, we'll continue working through Langer performance, continue working through the CNSC process, and continue working with First Nations groups.

Speaker #2: Yeah. And I think, Jim, we'll have the full-year results just prior to also.

Anna Sudlow: Yeah. I think, Dim, we'll have the full year results just prior to that investor day also.

Speaker #3: Yeah, okay, cool. Just to recap, we've spoken about this earlier in the year, so let's focus now on the cost base and the impacts from what's going on in the Middle East, which have flared up again.

Dim Ariasinghe: Yeah. Okay, cool. We spoke about this, I guess, earlier in the year, so less of a focus now. On the cost base impacts from what's going on in the Middle East, which have flared up again, I think you guys mentioned that at the start of the year, you had 3 to 9 months of supply of all your inputs. Has that eased at all? Maybe just an update there, both in terms of availability and impact on your cost base.

Dim Ariyasinghe: Yeah. Okay, cool. We spoke about this, I guess, earlier in the year, so less of a focus now. On the cost base impacts from what's going on in the Middle East, which have flared up again, I think you guys mentioned that at the start of the year, you had 3 to 9 months of supply of all your inputs. Has that eased at all? Maybe just an update there, both in terms of availability and impact on your cost base.

Speaker #3: I think you guys mentioned that, at the start of the year, you had three to nine months of supply of all your inputs. Has that eased at all? Maybe just an update there, both in terms of availability and the impact on your cost base?

Speaker #2: Yeah, Jim. I think what we're saying is that we have reflected the current cost base in the FY27 guidance. I would say I don't think it's having a material impact.

Anna Sudlow: Yeah, Dim. I think what we're seeing is that we have reflected the current cost base in the FY27 guidance, that I would say. I don't think it's having a material impact on our cost base. I think when we look at this quarter, it's definitely probably more of an outcome of grade than the cost per pound, I mean, than necessarily the Middle East conflict. We continue to monitor and probably Scott can give you a view as to line of sight of those inputs. From a cost perspective, we're reflecting the current pricing. We're not seeing massive shifts at this point in time. We obviously continue to monitor.

Speaker #2: On our cost base, I think when we look at this quarter, it's definitely probably more of an outcome of grade in the cost per pound domain than necessarily the Middle East conflict.

Speaker #2: So we continue to monitor, and probably Scott can give you a view as to line of sight for those inputs. But from a cost perspective, we're reflecting the current pricing; we're not seeing massive shifts at this point in time, but we obviously continue to monitor.

Speaker #3: Okay. Cool. Thanks.

Dim Ariasinghe: All right, cool. Thanks.

Dim Ariyasinghe: All right, cool. Thanks.

Speaker #1: Thank you. Your next question comes from Andrew Hein, with Short and Partners. Please go ahead.

Operator 2: Thank you. Your next question comes from Andrew Hines from Shaw and Partners. Please go ahead.

Operator: Thank you. Your next question comes from Andrew Hines from Shaw and Partners. Please go ahead.

Speaker #4: Yeah. Hi, guys. Perhaps a question for Alex—could you give us a bit of an update on what you're seeing in the broader uranium market, in terms of contracting activities?

Andrew Hines: Yeah. Hi, guys. Perhaps a question for Alex, just to give us a bit of an update on what you're seeing out there in the broader uranium market in terms of contracting activities. It seems like it's still very quiet out there. The level of contracts that have been reported by UxC is still extremely low for the H1 of this year. Paul mentioning that you're probably starting to engage already now with PLS offtakes for next decade. What are you seeing? What's the current terms in these contracts that are being discussed now, and when do you expect to see levels of activity pick up?

Speaker #4: It seems like it's still very quiet out there. The level of contracts that have been reported by UxC is still extremely low for the first half of this year.

Speaker #4: And Paul, mentioning that you're probably starting to engage already now with PLS offtakes for the next decade, what are you seeing? What are the current terms in these contracts that are being discussed now?

Speaker #4: And when do you expect to see levels of activity pick up?

Speaker #3: Thanks, Andrew. Yeah, look, I mean, the backdrop is really strong. Within the US, the loans that the US government has announced—$17 billion for the US utilities—is good wind in the sails when we speak with our customers.

Alex Rybak: Thanks, Andrew. Yeah, look, I mean, the backdrop is really strong in the US, the loans that the US government has announced, $17 billion for the US utilities is good wind in the sails. When we speak with our customers, that's exactly the support they're looking for, as well as some backstop on cost blowouts. It's certainly a move in the right direction. In terms of other markets, China is really powering ahead with their construction of reactors and their procurement of supply. India's now in the mix, as you've noted as well in your notes, with sort of implications for Australia as well. In terms of our discussions with utilities, very strong interest, very cognizant of the tightness in supply and some of the challenges that some other producers are having with ramp-up and startup issues. That's positive for the short-term window to 2030s.

Speaker #3: That's exactly the support they're looking for, as well as some backstop on cost blowouts. But it's certainly a move in the right direction. In terms of other markets, China is really powering ahead with their construction of reactors and their procurement of supply.

Speaker #3: India is now in the mix, as you've noted as well in your notes, with implications for Australia as well. In terms of our discussions with utilities, there's very strong interest. They're very cognizant of the tightness in supply and some of the challenges that other producers are having with ramp-up and start-up issues.

Speaker #3: So that's positive for the short-term window to the 2030s, but really that supply-demand deficit in the 2030s is coming home to roost, and the utilities are really chasing supply out in the 2030s. It's not really clear where they're going to meet those requirements.

Alex Rybak: Really, that supply-demand deficit in the 2030s is coming home to roost, and the utilities are really chasing supply out in the 2030s, and it's not really clear where they're going to meet those requirements. The volumes are still, as you've noted, Andrew, below replacement levels. It's interesting because even at those lower volumes, we're seeing stronger term pricing. Term pricing at $97 reported by UxC. In reality, from our discussions with utilities, we're seeing prices more in the $100 plus dollar range, which is very encouraging. I think it just shows that the utilities are willing to pay more, pretty much every quarter, for the uranium they procure. I think for me also, an interesting delta between term and spot that's emerged, with obviously term leading the pricing environment and the spot is largely expected to catch up to term.

Speaker #3: So the volumes are still, as you've noted, Andrew, below replacement levels. And it's interesting because, even at those lower volumes, we're seeing stronger term pricing.

Speaker #3: So, term pricing at $97 was reported by UX, but in reality, from our discussions with utilities, we're seeing prices more in the $100-plus range, which is very encouraging.

Speaker #3: And I think it just shows that the utilities are willing to pay more pretty much every quarter for the uranium they procure. I think for me also, an interesting delta between term and spot has emerged, with term obviously leading the pricing environment and spot largely expected to catch up to term.

Speaker #3: So I really like that dynamic, where the fundamental market is really leading the spot market. So, very positive developments, and we're always looking to monetize that sentiment in our contracting discussions for more Langer Heinrich contracts and PLS as well.

Alex Rybak: I really like that dynamic where the fundamental market is really leading the spot market. Very positive developments and we always looking to monetize that sentiment in our contracting discussions for more Langer Heinrich contracts and PLS as well.

Andrew Hines: What's your preference these days, Alex, for the nature of the contract? Is it for the market-based contracts with the floors and ceilings or is it for fixed price contracting?

Speaker #4: What's your preference these days, Alex, for the nature of the contracts? Is it for the market-based contracts with the floors and ceilings, or is it for fixed-price contracting?

Speaker #3: So, very much a balanced book approach, which we're continuing. The utilities' preference has definitely swung in favor of the base-escalated, given that they are concerned with ever-increasing prices.

Alex Rybak: Very much a balanced book approach, which we're continuing. The utilities preference has definitely swung into the base escalated favor given that they are concerned with ever-increasing prices. There's that element. Of course, they recognize they need to pay a premium to secure more fixed volumes, which again, is positive for the pricing and for any additional contracts that we'll layer into our book.

Speaker #3: So there's that element. But of course, they've recognized they need to pay a premium to secure more fixed volumes, which again is positive for the pricing and for any additional contracts that will layer into our book.

Speaker #4: Great, thanks, Alex. Look, a follow-up question for Paul on PLS. That was a pretty exciting discovery at Atlas in the quarter. And it's still obviously early days, and no sign yet on how big that will end up being.

Andrew Hines: Great. Thanks, Alex. Look, a follow-up question for Paul on PLS. That was pretty exciting discovery, Atlas, in the quarter and still obviously early days and no sign yet on how big that'll end up being. What's the plan of action going forward, Paul, on Atlas? How many rigs are you going to get going? How quickly are you going to drill that out? When are you sort of thinking about maybe the first resource being declared there?

Speaker #4: But what's the plan of action going forward, Paul, on Atlas? How many rigs are you going to get going? How quickly are you going to drill that out?

Speaker #4: When do you sort of think about maybe the first resource being declared there?

Speaker #2: Yeah, good question, Andrew. We've got three priorities for drilling around PLS. Number one is the resource upgrade of the Triple R deposit. Number two is the extension drilling of Triple R.

Paul Hemburrow: Yeah, good question, Andrew. We've got three priorities for drilling around PLS. Number one is the resource upgrade of the RRR deposit. Number two is the extension drilling of RRR, because that still remains open along strike and at depths as well. The third priority is close proximity exploration like Saloon East, like Atlas, and others. We'll just adopt a very sort of sensible, pragmatic approach to these three priorities and drill them out, I guess at an appropriate time and pace.

Speaker #2: Because that still remains open—a long strike depth as well. And the third priority is close proximity exploration, like Salone's, like Atlas, and others.

Speaker #2: So we'll just adopt a very, sort of, sensible, pragmatic approach to these three priorities and drill them out, I guess, at an appropriate time and pace.

Speaker #4: Great, thanks, Paul. I'm looking forward to the investor day coming up, where we get all the insights on PLS. It looks like a really exciting project going forward.

Andrew Hines: Great. Thanks, Paul. I'm looking forward to the Investor Day coming up where we get all the insights on PLS. Looks like a really exciting project going forward. I'll leave it there. Thanks, Paul.

Speaker #4: I'll leave it there. Thanks, Paul.

Speaker #2: Thanks, Andrew.

Paul Hemburrow: Thanks, Andrew.

Speaker #1: Thank you. There are no further questions at this time. I'll now hand back to Paul for closing remarks.

Operator 2: Thank you. There are no further questions at this time. I'll now hand back to Paul for closing remarks.

Operator: Thank you. There are no further questions at this time. I'll now hand back to Paul for closing remarks.

Speaker #2: Thank you very much. Look, I'm really pleased with the performance from Langer Heinrich in FY26 and the delivery against the revised guidance. Importantly, it sets a solid foundation for ongoing improvement and delivery.

Paul Hemburrow: Thank you very much. Look, I'm really pleased with the performance from Langer Heinrich in FY26 and the delivery against the revised guidance. Importantly, it sets a solid foundation for ongoing improvement and delivery. More importantly, I'm excited about de-risking and driving further value of Patterson Lake South through the CNSC process, through close proximity exploration, through continuing to develop relationships with First Nations, and closing out the FEED study. Thank you once again for joining us and for your ongoing support.

Speaker #2: But more importantly, I'm excited about de-risking and driving further value of Paterson Light South through the CNSC process, through close proximity exploration, through continuing to develop relationships with First Nations, and closing out the Feasibility Study.

Speaker #2: So, thank you once again for joining us and for your ongoing support.

Operator 2: Thank you. That does conclude our conference for today. Thank you for participating. You may now disconnect.

Operator: Thank you. That does conclude our conference for today. Thank you for participating. You may now disconnect.

Q4 2026 Paladin Energy Ltd Earnings Call

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