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First Quantum Minerals Ltd (TSE:FM)
TSX:FM

First Quantum Minerals (FM) AI Stock Analysis

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First Quantum Minerals

(TSX:FM)

63Neutral
First Quantum Minerals scores a 63 overall, reflecting a blend of recovery in financial performance and technical momentum against high valuation and ongoing operational challenges. The strategic financial moves are promising, but high leverage and profitability concerns, alongside specific regional operational issues, necessitate caution.
Positive Factors
Earnings
First Quantum reported EBITDA that beat consensus due to higher than expected copper sales volumes.
Financial Position
A new $500m copper prepayment deal with Jiangxi was announced, which strengthens the company's financial position.
Operational Outlook
The S3 expansion at Kansanshi is on track to be completed, reflecting ongoing improvements in the company's operational capabilities.
Negative Factors
Debt Management
Net debt increased, but the company's hedging program should protect it from risk to the copper price.
Government Relations
The terms of a new agreement with the government are still unknown and could lead to more value capture for the government and less for First Quantum.
Production Guidance
Production guidance has been trimmed for both Zambian mines for future years, indicating a more conservative outlook.

First Quantum Minerals (FM) vs. S&P 500 (SPY)

First Quantum Minerals Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionFirst Quantum Minerals Ltd. (FM) is a Canadian-based mining and metals company primarily engaged in the exploration, development, and production of mineral properties. The company is a major global copper producer, with additional operations in nickel, gold, and zinc. First Quantum Minerals operates mines and development projects in various countries, including Zambia, Panama, Finland, Turkey, Spain, and Australia, focusing on sustainable and responsible mining practices.
How the Company Makes MoneyFirst Quantum Minerals generates revenue primarily through the extraction and sale of copper, which is its largest revenue stream. The company operates several large-scale mining projects, including the Kansanshi mine in Zambia and the Cobre Panama mine in Panama, which contribute significantly to its copper output. In addition to copper, First Quantum also earns revenue from the mining of nickel, gold, and zinc. The company's revenue is influenced by global commodity prices, production volumes, and operational efficiencies. Strategic partnerships and joint ventures, such as collaborations with local governments and other mining companies, play a crucial role in expanding its mining operations and accessing new markets. First Quantum's focus on cost management and technological innovation further enhances its profitability and competitive position in the global mining industry.

First Quantum Minerals Financial Statement Overview

Summary
First Quantum Minerals shows resilience amidst fluctuating performance metrics. Revenue and operating margins are recovering, while leverage remains a concern with moderate profitability. Cash flow management requires attention, especially in enhancing free cash flow. Overall, the company is on a recovery path but must address leverage and profitability challenges to sustain long-term growth.
Income Statement
65
Positive
First Quantum Minerals shows a mixed income statement with signs of recovery. The TTM revenue increased slightly to $4.956 billion from $4.802 billion annually, indicating a modest growth trajectory. Gross profit margin for TTM stands at 30.76%, showing profitability, but net profit margin is low at 2.78%, indicating issues in translating sales to profit. EBIT and EBITDA margins are solid at 20.27% and 37.68% respectively, suggesting effective core operations despite a previous year of significant net loss.
Balance Sheet
70
Positive
The balance sheet presents a stable financial position with total assets at $24.18 billion. Debt-to-equity ratio remains high at 0.58, reflecting significant leverage, which is a potential risk. However, ROE at 1.22% for TTM is low, indicating limited efficiency in using equity to generate profit. The equity ratio of 46.91% shows a balanced capital structure but suggests room for improving equity utilization.
Cash Flow
60
Neutral
First Quantum Minerals displays varied cash flow results with a TTM operating cash flow of $1.383 billion. Free cash flow has decreased significantly to $119 million in TTM from $365 million annually, indicating cash management challenges. The operating cash flow to net income ratio is robust at 10.02, reflecting strong cash generation relative to net income, but the free cash flow to net income ratio is low at 0.86, highlighting pressures on liquidity.
Breakdown
Dec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income StatementTotal Revenue
4.80B6.46B7.63B7.21B5.20B
Gross Profit
1.35B1.29B2.20B2.56B1.08B
EBIT
810.00M78.00M2.24B2.60B991.00M
EBITDA
1.59B1.28B3.28B3.73B1.98B
Net Income Common Stockholders
2.00M-954.00M1.03B832.00M-224.00M
Balance SheetCash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
843.00M1.16B1.69B1.86B950.00M
Total Assets
24.11B23.76B25.08B25.27B24.24B
Total Debt
6.37B7.58B7.38B7.91B8.36B
Net Debt
5.53B6.42B5.69B6.05B7.41B
Total Liabilities
12.21B12.98B12.84B13.78B14.20B
Stockholders Equity
11.47B10.25B10.90B10.02B8.87B
Cash FlowFree Cash Flow
365.00M127.00M1.17B1.89B1.00B
Operating Cash Flow
1.65B1.43B2.33B2.88B1.61B
Investing Cash Flow
-1.29B-1.38B-1.17B-1.10B-673.00M
Financing Cash Flow
-501.00M-776.00M-1.33B-841.00M-543.00M

First Quantum Minerals Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price19.39
Price Trends
50DMA
18.69
Positive
100DMA
18.78
Positive
200DMA
18.24
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
0.22
Negative
RSI
56.82
Neutral
STOCH
75.78
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For TSE:FM, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 19.39 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 17.99, above the 50-day MA of 18.69, and above the 200-day MA of 18.24, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 0.22 indicates Negative momentum. The RSI at 56.82 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 75.78 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for TSE:FM.

First Quantum Minerals Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (49)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
TSIVN
69
Neutral
$18.61B31.199.67%137.28%
TSHBM
67
Neutral
$4.08B37.003.30%0.19%19.70%9.24%
TSLUN
66
Neutral
$10.33B25.632.66%3.02%-8.36%-200.42%
64
Neutral
$24.29B67.551.32%1.01%-22.39%-77.05%
TSFM
63
Neutral
$16.05B84.421.22%-13.79%
TSCS
59
Neutral
$5.15B45.922.71%37.30%
49
Neutral
$1.96B-1.17-21.28%3.71%1.14%-30.35%
* Basic Materials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
TSE:FM
First Quantum Minerals
19.39
1.42
7.90%
TSE:HBM
Hudbay Minerals
10.70
-1.30
-10.81%
TSE:CS
Capstone Copper
6.95
-3.68
-34.62%
TSE:TECK.B
Teck Resources
49.80
-19.39
-28.02%
TSE:IVN
Ivanhoe Mines
13.38
-6.34
-32.15%
TSE:LUN
Lundin Mining
11.93
-3.71
-23.73%

First Quantum Minerals Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Apr 23, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: 6.36%|
Next Earnings Date:Jul 29, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
While the company has made significant strides in financial restructuring and maintains strong operational capabilities, challenges in Panama, power issues in Zambia, and lower production with increased costs in Sentinel and Enterprise highlight ongoing operational challenges.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Strategic Financial Actions
First Quantum Minerals secured an additional $500 million copper prepay and completed a $1 billion note offering, significantly improving liquidity and extending debt maturities.
Operational Excellence in Zambia
Kansanshi and Sentinel operations maintained production despite challenges, with Kansanshi producing 47,000 tonnes of copper and 30,000 ounces of gold.
Progress on Kansanshi S3 Expansion
The Kansanshi S3 expansion project achieved 83% construction completion and remains on budget for a mid-2025 completion.
Strong Gold Production
Gold production was robust with Kansanshi producing nearly 30,000 ounces, benefiting from high gold prices.
Negative Updates
Cobre Panama Operational Suspension
Operations have been suspended since November 2023, costing approximately $13 million per month, with significant economic losses for Panama.
Challenges with Power Supply in Zambia
Low reservoir levels at Lake Kariba continue to impact hydroelectric power generation, necessitating 60% of power to be imported until 2026.
Lower Production and Increased Costs at Sentinel
Sentinel reported lower copper production of 46,000 tonnes with increased cash costs of $2.55 per pound due to lower production volumes.
Nickel Production Challenges
Enterprise reported lower grades and higher cash costs for nickel production, impacting overall output.
Company Guidance
During the First Quantum Minerals Ltd. first quarter 2025 results conference call, the company provided several key financial and operational metrics that underscore its strategic initiatives. The company announced a $500 million copper prepay agreement, supplementing a similar deal from the previous year, and completed a $1 billion note offering to retire a portion of its 2027 notes. Operationally, Kansanshi produced 47,000 tonnes of copper and nearly 30,000 ounces of gold with a copper C1 cash cost of $1.34 per pound, while Sentinel reported 46,000 tonnes of copper production at a cash cost of $2.55 per pound. Despite challenges, including the suspension of operations at Cobre Panama, which resulted in $13 million monthly costs, the company remains on track for its 2025 production guidance, with ongoing efforts to resolve issues in Panama and manage power constraints in Zambia. The company also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining strong liquidity, ending the quarter with $1.6 billion, and continues to explore strategic partnerships and hedging strategies to enhance financial resilience.

First Quantum Minerals Corporate Events

Executive/Board ChangesShareholder Meetings
First Quantum Minerals Announces Successful Election of Directors
Positive
May 8, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. announced the successful election of its board of directors during the 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, with 85.72% of issued shares voted. The election results indicate strong shareholder support, with most directors receiving over 85% of votes cast in their favor, reflecting confidence in the company’s leadership and strategic direction.

Spark’s Take on TSE:FM Stock

According to Spark, TipRanks’ AI Analyst, TSE:FM is a Neutral.

First Quantum Minerals’ overall stock score reflects a challenging environment with operational and financial restructuring efforts. While strategic financial actions and operational achievements are evident, high leverage, valuation challenges, and operational setbacks in Panama and Zambia pose risks. The technical indicators suggest caution due to potential overbought conditions. The stock is under pressure, balancing between strategic improvements and significant operational and valuation challenges.

To see Spark’s full report on TSE:FM stock, click here.

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
First Quantum Minerals Reports Q1 2025 Loss Amid Strategic Expansion Efforts
Negative
Apr 24, 2025

First Quantum Minerals reported a net loss of $23 million for Q1 2025, with adjusted earnings of $2 million. The company is progressing with the Kansanshi S3 Expansion project, which is expected to boost production in the latter half of 2025. In Panama, First Quantum has suspended arbitration proceedings and is working towards a resolution regarding the Cobre Panamá mine. The company has strengthened its financial position with a $750 million notes offering and additional prepayment agreements, despite facing lower sales volumes and increased cash costs for copper production.

Spark’s Take on TSE:FM Stock

According to Spark, TipRanks’ AI Analyst, TSE:FM is a Neutral.

First Quantum Minerals’ overall stock score reflects a mix of operational achievements and strategic financial management against a backdrop of declining financial performance and valuation challenges. The company’s improved cash flow generation and leverage management are positive, but technical indicators and valuation metrics reveal potential downside risks. The stock remains under pressure, with operational challenges in Panama and Zambia, and a bearish technical outlook further weighing on investor sentiment.

To see Spark’s full report on TSE:FM stock, click here.

Legal ProceedingsBusiness Operations and Strategy
First Quantum Minerals Suspends Arbitration Proceedings in Panama
Positive
Apr 1, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has decided to discontinue its arbitration proceedings with the International Chamber of Commerce and suspend the arbitration under the Canada-Panama Free Trade Agreement regarding the Cobre Panamá mine. This decision follows discussions with the Government of Panama, indicating the company’s commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and cooperation, which could positively impact its operations and relationships in Panama.

Shareholder MeetingsFinancial Disclosures
First Quantum Minerals Announces Online AGM and Releases 2024 Annual Report
Neutral
Mar 27, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has announced that its Annual General Meeting of shareholders will be held online on May 8, 2025. The company has also made available its 2024 Annual Report, which includes audited financial statements and other key documents, through its website. This announcement ensures transparency and accessibility for stakeholders, reinforcing First Quantum’s commitment to maintaining robust investor relations.

Business Operations and StrategyFinancial Disclosures
First Quantum Minerals to Announce Q1 2025 Results
Neutral
Mar 26, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has announced that it will release its first quarter 2025 financial and operating results on April 23, 2025. The company will hold a conference call and webcast on April 24, 2025, to discuss these results, which could provide insights into its operational performance and market strategy, potentially impacting stakeholders’ perspectives.

Private Placements and Financing
First Quantum Completes $1 Billion Senior Notes Offering
Positive
Mar 5, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has successfully completed a $1,000 million senior notes offering, with the notes due in 2033 and carrying an interest rate of 8.000%. The proceeds from this offering will be used to repay a portion of its revolving credit facility, fund a partial tender offer for existing notes due in 2027, and cover transaction-related expenses, which could enhance the company’s financial flexibility and reduce its debt burden.

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
First Quantum Minerals Reports Early Results of $750M Cash Tender Offer
Neutral
Mar 5, 2025

First Quantum Minerals announced the early results of its cash tender offer for its outstanding 6.875% Senior Notes due 2027, with a maximum aggregate principal amount of $750 million. The company received tenders exceeding this amount, leading to a prorated acceptance of the notes. This financial maneuver is likely to impact the company’s debt management strategy and could influence its financial stability and stakeholder confidence.

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
First Quantum Minerals Upsizes Senior Notes Offering to $1 Billion
Positive
Feb 19, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has announced the successful pricing and upsizing of its senior notes offering, increasing the total from $750 million to $1,000 million with an 8.000% interest rate. The proceeds will be used to repay part of its revolving credit facility, fund a tender offer for existing senior notes, and cover related transaction costs, reflecting strategic financial management to optimize its capital structure.

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
First Quantum Minerals Upsizes Tender Offer for Senior Notes
Positive
Feb 19, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. announced an increase in its cash tender offer for its outstanding 6.875% senior notes due 2027, raising the maximum amount from $500 million to $750 million. This strategic financial maneuver follows the successful pricing and upsizing of a concurrent offering of $1 billion in senior notes due 2033, aimed at enhancing the company’s financial flexibility and addressing existing debt obligations. The move could impact stakeholders by potentially strengthening First Quantum’s financial position and funding its operations, though it remains subject to certain conditions and potential waivers.

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
First Quantum Minerals Launches $750 Million Senior Notes Offering
Positive
Feb 19, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has announced a $750 million offering of senior unsecured notes, with plans to use the proceeds to repay part of its revolving credit facility and fund a partial tender offer for its existing senior notes. This strategic financial move is expected to strengthen the company’s financial flexibility, potentially impacting its operational capabilities and offering reassurance to stakeholders regarding its debt management strategy.

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
First Quantum Minerals Launches $500 Million Cash Tender Offer for Senior Notes
Positive
Feb 19, 2025

First Quantum Minerals Ltd. has initiated a cash tender offer to purchase its outstanding 6.875% Senior Notes due 2027, with a maximum aggregate principal amount of up to $500 million. This move is part of the company’s financial strategy to manage its debt and optimize its capital structure, potentially improving its financial flexibility and reducing interest costs.

Business Operations and Strategy
First Quantum Minerals Announces Strategic Operational Update
Neutral
Feb 12, 2025

First Quantum Minerals has announced a significant update regarding its operational strategies, which could potentially influence its market position and stakeholder interests. The announcement highlights changes that are expected to impact the company’s overall operations, though specific details and implications are not provided.

Glossary
OutperformA stock rated as "Outperform" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider this stock a good buying opportunity.
NeutralA stock rated as "Neutral" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly attractive nor unattractive for investment. Investors may consider holding onto the stock, as it is not expected to either significantly outperform or underperform the market.
UnderperformA stock rated as "Underperform" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests that the stock may deliver lower returns compared to the average returns of other stocks in the same sector or market index. Investors might consider selling the stock or avoiding it as an investment.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.