UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
FORM 6-K
Report of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 Under
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the month of January, 2004
Cameco Corporation
2121-11th Street West
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada S7M 1J3
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.
Form 20-F | Form 40-F Y |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes | No Y |
If Yes is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b):
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Exhibit Index | ||||||||
SIGNATURE | ||||||||
1. FINANCIAL RESULTS | ||||||||
2. UPDATES ON MARKETS, HEDGING, AND OPERATIONS | ||||||||
3. OUTLOOK FOR YEAR | ||||||||
4. OUTLOOK FOR FIRST QUARTER 2004 |
Exhibit Index
Exhibit No. | Description | Page No. | ||
1. | Press Release dated January 27, 2004 and Quarterly Report for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2003 | 3-24 |
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Date: January 28, 2004 |
Cameco Corporation By: |
|
Gary M.S. Chad Gary M.S. Chad Senior Vice-President, Law, Regulatory Affairs and Corporate Secretary |
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Listed TSX NYSE |
Share Symbol CCO CCJ |
web site address: www.cameco.com |
2121 11th Street West, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, S7M 1J3 Canada
Tel: (306) 956-6200 Fax: (306) 956-6201
Camecos Net Earnings Rise in Fourth Quarter
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, January 27, 2004 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cameco Corporation today reported its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2003.
HIGHLIGHTS
For the Quarter
| Excellent production performance at all uranium mining and conversion facilities and Kumtor gold mine | |
| Finalized negotiations with the Kyrgyz government to create new gold company | |
| Gold revenues reach new high; Boroo commissioning on track with first gold poured in December | |
| After five years off-line, Bruce A unit 4 back in commercial production, unit 3 reconnected to grid in early January | |
| Rabbit Lake mine received five-year operating license from CNSC |
For the Year
| Record annual earnings achieved | |
| Record annual revenues for uranium and conversion | |
| Water inflow at McArthur River impacted production | |
| Uranium price escalated over 40% |
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3 Months | 3 Months | Year | Year | Change | ||||||||||||||||
Ended | Ended | Ended | Ended | (Y o Y) | ||||||||||||||||
Financial Highlights | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | % | |||||||||||||||
Revenue ($ millions) |
272 | 271 | 827 | 748 | 11 | |||||||||||||||
Earnings from operations ($ millions) |
50 | 44 | 88 | 84 | 5 | |||||||||||||||
Cash provided by operations ($ millions) |
76 | 14 | 246 | 251 | (2 | ) | ||||||||||||||
Net earnings attributable to common shares ($ millions) |
30 | 22 | 205 | 44 | 366 | |||||||||||||||
Earnings per share basic ($) |
0.53 | 0.40 | 3.65 | 0.78 | 368 | |||||||||||||||
Average
uranium spot price for the period ($US/lb U3O8) |
13.62 | 9.95 | 11.54 | 9.86 | 17 | |||||||||||||||
Bruce Powers average realized electricity price ($/MWh) |
45 | 44 | 48 | 43 | (a) | 12 | ||||||||||||||
Average Ontario spot electricity price ($/MWh) |
47 | 51 | 54 | 52 | 4 | |||||||||||||||
Camecos average realized gold price for the period (US$/ounce) |
375 | 304 | 334 | 300 | 11 | |||||||||||||||
Average spot market gold price for the period (US$/ounce) |
392 | 322 | 363 | 310 | 17 |
Note: | All dollar amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated. |
(a) From opening day of the Ontario electricity market i.e. May 1, 2002 to December 31, 2002.
This report is organized under the following major headings:
1. | Financial results | |
2. | Updates on markets, hedging and operations | |
3. | Outlook for the year | |
4. | Outlook for the quarter |
1. FINANCIAL RESULTS
Consolidated Earnings
Fourth Quarter. For the three months ended December 31, 2003, net earnings attributable to common shares increased to $30 million ($0.53 per share) from $22 million ($0.40 per share) in 2002. This was mainly attributable to higher earnings from the gold business, offset by lower earnings from the uranium, conversion and electricity segments. Earnings were further affected in 2003 by convertible debenture charges, stock compensation expenses and a change in Ontario provincial tax legislation which caused Cameco to increase its provision for future taxes by $5 million.
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Excluding the adjustment for Ontario taxes, the effective tax rate decreased to 33% from 54% in 2002 due to a higher proportion of gold earnings which are earned in a more favorable tax jurisdiction.
Earnings from operations were $50 million compared to $44 million in 2002 and the aggregate gross profit margin increased to 27% from 24% in 2002 due to stronger margins in gold.
Year-to-Date. For 2003, net earnings attributable to common shares were $205 million ($3.65 per share) compared to $44 million ($0.78 per share) in 2002.
Excluding the $86 million tax adjustment recorded in the second quarter and the impact of the change in Ontario tax laws, net earnings attributable to common shares in 2003 were $123 million ($2.20 per share) compared to $44 million ($0.78 per share) in 2002. This increase was attributable to higher earnings from Bruce Power and higher profits in the gold segment. These improvements were offset somewhat by lower earnings in the uranium segment and higher charges for interest and administration.
Excluding the tax adjustment, the effective rate for income taxes decreased to 33% from 48% due to a higher proportion of earnings from gold in 2003. Earnings from operations were $88 million compared to $84 million in 2002 and the aggregate gross profit margin remained at 20%.
Segmented Earnings
Uranium Business
3 Months | 3 Months | Year | Year | |||||||||||||
Ended | Ended | Ended | Ended | |||||||||||||
Highlights | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||
Revenue ($ millions) |
186 | 199 | 570 | 524 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit ($ millions) |
38 | 41 | 84 | 93 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit % |
20 | 21 | 15 | 18 | ||||||||||||
EBT* ($ millions) |
34 | 37 | 71 | 84 | ||||||||||||
Sales volume (lbs thousands) |
11,116 | 11,334 | 35,412 | 31,861 | ||||||||||||
Production volume (lbs thousands) |
5,945 | 3,930 | 18,531 | 15,893 |
* | Earnings before taxes. |
Fourth Quarter. Revenue from the uranium business decreased by 7% to $186 million from $199 million in the fourth quarter of 2002 due to a 5% decrease in average realized price and a 2% decrease in sales volume.
The average realized selling price decreased mainly due to the strengthening of the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar and deliveries under lower fixed-priced contracts. This more than offset the positive effect of an increase in the spot price. The uranium spot price averaged $13.62 (US) in the fourth quarter compared to $9.95 (US) in the fourth quarter of 2002, an increase of 37%. However, adjusting for the foreign exchange rate, the average spot price rose only 15%.
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As the timing of deliveries of nuclear products within a calendar year is at the discretion of customers, Camecos quarterly delivery patterns can vary significantly.
The total cost of products and services sold, including depreciation, depletion and reclamation (DDR) was $148 million in the fourth quarter of 2003 compared to $158 million in the fourth quarter of 2002. On a per unit basis, the cost of product sold decreased by 4% due to the higher production volumes.
Earnings before taxes from the uranium business of $34 million were 8% lower than in the fourth quarter 2002 and the profit margin declined to 20% from 21% in 2002.
Year-to-Date. Revenue from the uranium business increased by 9% to $570 million from $524 million in 2002, due to an increase in sales volume. For the second consecutive year, Cameco delivered a record quantity of uranium concentrates, eclipsing the 2002 mark by 11%. The average realized selling price was 2% lower than 2002 as the influence of higher spot prices was offset by a less favourable foreign exchange rate and lower realized prices on fixed-price contracts.
For 2003, the total cost of products and services sold, including DDR, was $487 million compared to $431 million in 2002, reflecting the higher volumes sold and rehabilitation costs of $26 million at McArthur River. Excluding these costs for McArthur River in 2003 and Rabbit Lakes care and maintenance costs of $8 million in 2002, the unit cost of sales decreased by 2% compared to 2002.
Earnings before taxes from the uranium business decreased by $13 million in 2003 and the profit margin declined to 15% from 18% in 2002. Excluding the rehabilitation costs at McArthur River, the gross profit margin was 17%.
Conversion Business
3 Months | 3 Months | Year | Year | |||||||||||||
Ended | Ended | Ended | Ended | |||||||||||||
Highlights | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||
Revenue ($ millions) |
47 | 50 | 142 | 137 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit ($ millions) |
18 | 23 | 40 | 44 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit % |
37 | 45 | 28 | 32 | ||||||||||||
EBT ($ millions) |
17 | 22 | 38 | 41 | ||||||||||||
Sales volume (tU) |
5,446 | 5,268 | 16,747 | 15,276 | ||||||||||||
Production volume (tU) |
4,059 | 3,754 | 13,273 | 12,428 |
Fourth Quarter. Revenue from the conversion business decreased by 6% to $47 million from $50 million in the fourth quarter of 2002 due to a 10% decrease in average realized price partially offset by a 3% increase in sales volume. As with uranium deliveries, quarterly delivery patterns can vary significantly. The decrease in the realized selling price was mainly the result of foreign exchange rate fluctuations.
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The total cost of products and services sold, including DDR, was $30 million in the fourth quarter of 2003 compared to $27 million in 2002. The unit cost of products and services sold decreased slightly due to higher production.
Earnings before taxes from the conversion business decreased by $5 million in the fourth quarter of 2003 and the profit margin declined to 37% from 45% in 2002.
Year-to-Date. Revenue from the conversion business increased by 4% to $142 million from $137 million in 2002 mainly due to a 10% increase in sales volumes. The realized selling price declined by 4% due largely to foreign exchange rates. Record annual conversion sales of 16,747 tonnes were achieved.
The total cost of products and services sold, including DDR, was $102 million in 2003 compared to $94 million in 2002. This increase was attributable to higher sales volumes. On a per unit basis, the cost of product sold declined by 1% due to a 7% increase in production
Earnings before taxes from the conversion business decreased to $38 million from $41 million in 2002 and the profit margin decreased to 28% from 32% in 2002.
Electricity Business
Bruce Power Limited Partnership (100% basis)
3 Months | 3 Months | Year | Year | |||||||||||||
Ended | Ended | Ended | Ended | |||||||||||||
Highlights | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||
Output (terawatt hours) |
5.9 | 5.2 | 24.5 | 20.8 | ||||||||||||
Capacity factor (%) |
73 | 75 | 85 | 75 | ||||||||||||
Realized price ($/MWh) |
45 | 44 | 48 | 43 | ||||||||||||
($ millions)
|
||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
269 | 237 | 1,208 | 919 | ||||||||||||
Operating costs |
254 | 179 | 853 | 750 | ||||||||||||
Earnings before interest and taxes |
15 | 58 | 355 | 169 | ||||||||||||
Interest |
20 | 13 | 69 | 63 | ||||||||||||
Earnings (loss) before taxes |
(5 | ) | 45 | 286 | 106 |
Note: | Capacity factor for a given period represents the amount of electricity actually produced for sale as a percentage of the amount of electricity the plants are capable of producing for sale. |
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Camecos Earnings from Bruce Power
3 Months | 3 Months | Year | Year | |||||||||||||
Ended | Ended | Ended | Ended | |||||||||||||
Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | |||||||||||||
Bruce Powers earnings (loss) before taxes (100%) |
(5 | ) | 45 | 286 | 106 | |||||||||||
Camecos share of earnings (loss) before adjustments |
(2 | ) | 7 | 77 | 16 | |||||||||||
Adjustments: |
||||||||||||||||
Sales contract valuation (a) |
6 | | 20 | | ||||||||||||
Interest capitalization |
3 | 2 | 12 | 2 | ||||||||||||
Interest income on loan to Bruce Power |
2 | | 7 | | ||||||||||||
Fair value increments on assets (a) |
(3 | ) | (1 | ) | (8 | ) | (2 | ) | ||||||||
Earnings from Bruce Power |
6 | 8 | 108 | 16 |
Note: | (a) See note 2 to the consolidated financial statements. |
Fourth Quarter. Bruce Power contributed $6 million of pre-tax earnings to Cameco ($4 million after tax or $0.07 per share) for the fourth quarter 2003. Cameco holds a 31.6% interest in Bruce Power. In addition to its proportionate share of earnings from Bruce Power, Cameco records certain adjustments to account for any differences in accounting policy and to amortize fair values assigned to assets and liabilities at the time of acquisition (see note 2 to the consolidated financial statements dated December 31, 2003).
During the fourth quarter, Bruce Power continued its solid operating performance, generating 5.9 terawatt hours (TWh), 13% higher than the same period in 2002. The Bruce Power site achieved a capacity factor of 73% compared to 75% in the comparable period last year. The capacity factor in the fourth quarter 2003 reflects the performance of the Bruce B units and includes the availability of Bruce A unit 4 for November and December. In the fourth quarter of 2002, unit 4 was not connected to the grid.
Electricity Prices
Bruce Power earnings are significantly impacted by fluctuations in electricity spot market prices. The average Ontario electricity spot price for the quarter was $47 per megawatt hour (MWh) while Bruce Powers average selling price was about $45 per MWh from a mix of contract and spot sales. To reduce its exposure to spot market prices, Bruce Power has a portfolio of fixed price sales contracts. About 70% of Bruce Powers output was delivered into fixed price contracts in the fourth quarter compared to 66% in the third. Cameco provides guarantees to customers under these contracts of up to $127 million. At December 31, 2003, Camecos actual exposure under these guarantees was $44 million. In addition, Cameco provides financial assurances for other Bruce Power commitments, which totaled about $146 million at the end of 2003. (See note 2 to the consolidated financial statements).
Output
Earnings from Bruce Power are also directly affected by overall plant availability, which is impacted by maintenance outages. Bruce B unit 8 went off-line for scheduled maintenance on September 20. The outage was extended beyond the fourth quarter to repair some erosion found on three of the units eight steam generators. These repairs have been completed and approved by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission. Unit 8 is in the process of being returned to service. In addition, Bruce B unit 7 incurred a weeklong forced outage in the fourth quarter.
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Bruce A unit 4 achieved commercial production effective November 1, 2003 and therefore, contributed to revenue for two months in the fourth quarter. Bruce A unit 3 was reconnected to the grid on January 8, 2004 and is undergoing additional maintenance and operational checks. Following the successful completion of these activities, Unit 3 will be reconnected to the grid. The two Bruce A units add 1,500 MW of capacity, bringing Bruce Powers total capacity to 4,660 MW.
Costs
Operating costs during the fourth quarter 2003 totaled $254 million compared to $179 million in the same period 2003. The increase reflects additional expenditures of about $30 million incurred during the extended outage of Bruce B unit 8 plus operating costs for Bruce A unit 4 in November and December and increased staffing costs in preparation for a six-unit operation. Unit costs during the fourth quarter were $43 per MWh, which is significantly higher than the $34 per MWh in the fourth quarter of 2002 primarily because of the Bruce B repairs and the fact that Bruce Powers total operating costs are about 95% fixed.
For the fourth quarter 2003, capital expenditures on the Bruce A restart project were about $32 million, plus $4 million in post-synchronization operational losses that were capitalized during the commissioning phase. The restart project expenditures were related primarily to the ongoing cost of salaries for Bruce Power employees and contractors dedicated to the Bruce A units.
Year-to-Date. Bruce Powers revenue in 2003 totaled $1,208 million, up 31% compared to 2002. Bruce Power has contributed $108 million of pre-tax earnings to Camecos results ($72 million after tax or $1.29 per share) compared to pre-tax earnings of $16 million in 2002 ($11 million after tax or $0.19 per share).
For 2003, Bruce Power achieved a total capacity factor of 85% compared to 75% in 2002. Bruce Power produced 24.5 TWh, an 18% increase over the same period last year. In 2002, Bruce Power carried out a series of major planned outages to prepare the four Bruce B reactors for better long-term performance.
Electricity Prices
For 2003, the Ontario electricity spot price averaged about $54 per MWh. During this period, Bruce Powers realized price averaged $48 per MWh from a mix of contract and spot sales, a 10% increase over the previous year.
Costs
Bruce Powers operating costs in 2003 totaled $853 million ($35 per MWh) compared to $750 million ($36 per MWh) in 2002, reflecting primarily increased maintenance costs for the Bruce B reactors and operating costs for Bruce A unit 4 in November and December. The 2003 cost per MWh was lower compared to 2002 because about 95% of Bruce Powers total operating costs are fixed and the output was higher year-over-year. Interest cost of $69 million included interest on the long-term loans from Bruce Power partners and interest costs attributable to the capital lease.
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Bruce Power has spent about $350 million on the restart of the two Bruce A units in 2003, bringing the total project capital cost to $724 million. Bruce Power spent an additional $159 million on capital expenditures at Bruce B, the majority of which was for safety systems and power uprate programs.
Gold Business
3 Months | 3 Months | Year | Year | |||||||||||||
Ended | Ended | Ended | Ended | |||||||||||||
Highlights | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||
Revenue ($ millions) |
39 | 22 | 114 | 87 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit ($ millions) |
18 | 1 | 40 | 9 | ||||||||||||
Gross profit (%) |
47 | 2 | 35 | 10 | ||||||||||||
EBT ($ millions) |
15 | (2 | ) | 32 | (3 | ) | ||||||||||
Selling price ($US/ounce) |
375 | 304 | 334 | 300 | ||||||||||||
Unit cash cost* ($US/ounce) |
180 | 220 | 199 | 216 | ||||||||||||
Sales volume (ounces) |
76,466 | 41,865 | 234,864 | 174,394 | ||||||||||||
Production (ounces) |
69,226 | 47,399 | 225,851 | 176,183 |
* | As defined by the Gold Institute. Note: the unit cash cost reported above is Kumtors cost. The net cost recorded by Cameco is lower due to the recovery of taxes, management fees and other factors. |
Fourth Quarter. Revenue from the gold business increased by 77% to $39 million from $22 million in the fourth quarter of last year due to an 83% increase in the sales volume driven by higher production noted below. Camecos realized price for gold increased to $375 (US) per ounce in the quarter from $304 (US) in the same quarter last year. The stronger Canadian dollar negatively influenced reported revenue.
During the quarter, gold production at Kumtor was 46% higher than in the fourth quarter of 2002. The increased production was mainly due to a higher mill feed grade which averaged 5.7 grams per tonne (g/t) compared to 4.0 g/t in 2002. The recovery rate also increased to 83% from 80% in 2002. Kumtors unit cash cost decreased to $180 (US) compared to $220 (US) in 2002 due to the increase in 2003 production and extra costs related to the remediation of the pit wall in 2002. For the quarter, the gross profit margin was 43% compared to 2% in 2002.
Year-to-Date. Revenue from the gold business increased by $27 million compared to the previous year, reflecting a 35% increase in sales volume and an increase in the average realized selling price. Camecos realized gold price increased to $334 (US) per ounce in 2003 compared to $300 (US) in 2002.
Gold production at Kumtor was 28% higher than in 2002 due mainly to higher grade mill feed that averaged 4.5 g/t compared to 3.7 g/t last year and an improved recovery rate of 83% compared to 78% in 2002. The ore grade and recovery were lower in 2002 due to the pit wall failure. Kumtors cash cost per ounce was $199 (US) compared to $216 (US) in 2002.
The gross profit margin for gold was 35% in 2003 compared to 10% in 2002.
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Consolidated Corporate Expenses
Administrative Expenses
During 2003, total costs for administration, exploration and interest were about $74 million, $12 million higher than 2002. Administration costs increased by about $5 million due to a number of items including recording an expense for stock-based compensation and costs incurred for quality and business process improvements.
In the fourth quarter of 2003, Cameco changed its accounting policy for stock-based compensation opting to record a compensation expense for the fair value of stock options granted during the year. The application of this change in policy was retroactive to January 1, 2003. The total expense for 2003 amounted to $2.4 million, of which $1.9 million has been attributed to administration.
Interest and other costs increased by about $7 million due to revaluation of US dollar denominated assets as a result of the strengthening Canadian dollar. In 2003, the company recognized foreign exchange losses of $4 million compared to gains of $2 million in 2002.
Income Taxes
In June, the federal government introduced amendments to the Canadian Income Tax Act which provide for a 7% reduction in the corporate tax rate on income from resource activities. The federal tax rate is declining from its previous level of 28% to 21% over a five-year period commencing in 2003. Under Canadian accounting rules, the cumulative effect of a change in income tax legislation on future income tax assets and liabilities is included in a companys financial statements in the period of substantial enactment. Accordingly, Cameco reduced its balance sheet provision for future income taxes and recognized a one-time, non-cash income tax adjustment of $86 million ($1.54 per share) in the second quarter.
In November, the government of Ontario amended the provincial income tax laws to increase the corporate income tax rate to 14% effective January 1, 2004. Prior to this amendment, the tax rate was projected to decline from 11% in 2004 to 8% in 2007. As a result, Cameco increased its provision for future income taxes by $5 million ($0.09 per share) in the fourth quarter.
Excluding these adjustments, year-to-date income tax expense was $18 million greater than in 2002 primarily as a result of the significantly higher earnings from Bruce Power which are taxed at a rate of 34%. The effective tax rate on consolidated earnings was lower at 33% compared to 48% last year due to a higher proportion of earnings in the gold business.
Consolidated Cash Flow
In 2003, Cameco generated cash from operations of $246 million ($4.38 per share) compared to $251 million ($4.50 per share) in 2002. The preceding does not include Camecos pro rata interest of Bruce Powers operating cash flow of $117 million in 2003 compared to $28 million in 2002. Cameco accounts for this investment using the equity method and thus Bruce Powers operating cash flows are not consolidated with Camecos. For further information, refer to note 2 (b) of the consolidated financial statements.
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Cash used in investing activities increased to $448 million this year from $74 million last year due to the additional investment in Bruce Power. Cameco paid $204 million for its incremental 16.6% interest and loaned an additional $75 million to Bruce Power. Expenditures for property, plant and equipment rose by $69 million compared to 2002 due to the development of the Boroo gold mine in Mongolia.
Consolidated Balance Sheet
During 2003, total long-term debt increased by $18 million to $243 million. At December 31, 2003, Camecos net debt to capitalization ratio was 7%, down from 8% at the end of 2002. During the year debt increased as most of the Bruce Power investment was initially financed with debt. In September 2003, Cameco issued $230 million in convertible debentures, the proceeds of which have been used to repay commercial paper as it matures. In December 2003, $20 million (US) (Camecos share) of the Kumtor senior debt was repaid.
Long-term receivables and investments increased by $386 million since the end of 2002. This was due to the additional investment in Bruce Power and accrued earnings from Bruce Power. This investment is accounted for using the equity method.
2. UPDATES ON MARKETS, HEDGING, AND OPERATIONS
Markets
Uranium Spot Market
The industry average spot price on December 31, 2003 was $14.45 (US) per pound U3O8, up from $12.23 (US) at September 30, 2003. (See also Outlook section, Uranium Revenues and Margins A Recent Update.) This compares to the industry average spot price of $10.20 (US) at the end of 2002.
Total spot market volume reported for 2003 was 21.5 million pounds U3O8, slightly higher than the 19.8 million pounds of spot market volume completed in 2002.
Spot demand was stronger in the fourth quarter and spot supplies were limited, resulting in the price increasing throughout the quarter.
Uranium Long-term Market
The long-term market continued to be active in the last quarter and long-term contracting in 2003 is estimated to have been about 75 million pounds U3O8.
The long-term price indicator, published by TradeTech, was $15.50 (US) per pound U3O8 at December 31, 2003, up from $12.00 (US) at the beginning of the fourth quarter.
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UF6 Conversion Spot Market
The industry average spot market price for North American uranium conversion services increased to $5.88 (US) per kgU at December 31, 2003, up from $4.85 (US) at September 30, 2003. Production problems at a US conversion competitor coupled with a scarcity of spot conversion supplies contributed to this rise in prices. This compares to $5.03 (US) per kgU at the end of the fourth quarter of 2002. In Europe, the spot conversion price increased $0.25 (US) to $6.75 (US).
Nuclear Industry Trends and Developments
Reactor Life Extensions
In the US, additional reactors have received 20-year license extensions in the quarter, bringing the total number of reactors that have been granted life extensions to 23 since 2000. Operators of 33 other reactors have applied for, or have indicated their intent to apply for, life extensions. Assuming all are granted extensions, 50% of US nuclear capacity will have extended operating lives.
Potential New Reactors
In the US, a third utility, Entergy, has submitted an application for an early site permit with the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Entergy has identified its Grand Gulf power plant as the potential site for a new reactor. An early site permit is expected to decrease the length of the approval process for a new reactor from eight to five years.
The Japanese utility Hokkaido received permission to start construction on a third unit at the Tomari nuclear power plant. Tomari 3 will have a capacity of 912 megawatts and is scheduled to enter commercial operations in December 2009.
Nuclear Phase Out
In Germany, the Stade nuclear power plant was permanently closed in mid November for economic reasons. This is the first reactor closure since the inception of Germanys nuclear phase out policy. Stade is the second oldest plant in Germany with a capacity of 640 megawatts. The next German reactor is scheduled to close in late 2005.
Other Developments
The Japanese utility Chugoku has announced another one-year delay in the Shimane 3 nuclear unit, with commercial operation now expected in 2011. In March 2003, a one-year delay was announced in order to complete an additional geological survey. The latest delay is a result of the decision to change the plant sites boundary. Shimane 3 will be a 1,375 megawatt Advanced Boiling Water Reactor with construction now scheduled to begin in March 2005.
Also in Japan, Tepco is now hoping to restore normal operations at all of its 17 reactors by the end of 2004, six to nine months later than previously anticipated. All reactors were closed for inspection between September 2002 and April 2003, with seven reactors restarted in 2003.
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Hedging
Gold Hedging
The average spot market gold price during the fourth quarter was $392 (US) per ounce but ended the quarter at $416 (US). This compares to $388 (US) at September 30, 2003 and $347 (US) at the end of the fourth quarter of 2002.
Kumtor Gold Company (KGC) and AGR Limited (AGR) hedge certain price risk for future gold sales. At the end of December, KGC had in place forward sales on 278,300 ounces and AGR had in place forward sales on 200,000 ounces. Combined, these hedge positions represented about 12% of proven and probable gold reserves. These hedges are expected to yield an average price of about $326 (US) per ounce.
Cameco has agreed to provide various levels of credit support up to $130 (US) per ounce to the counterparties of KGC and AGR which, based on the ounces hedged at December 31, 2003, could amount to $57 million (US) depending on the spot price of gold. At December 31, 2003, the actual exposure under these arrangements, reflecting the net mark-to-market losses, was $46 million (US).
Timing differences between the usage and designation of hedge contracts may result in deferred revenue or deferred charges. At the end of 2003, Camecos share of deferred charges to be recognized totaled $2 million (US).
Foreign Exchange Hedging
During the quarter, the Canadian dollar strengthened against the US dollar from 1.3504 (Canadian dollar for each US dollar) at September 30, 2003 to 1.2924 as of December 31, 2003.
Most of the companys revenues are in US dollars. At December 31, 2003, Cameco had a foreign currency hedge portfolio of $457 million (US). These hedges are expected to yield an average exchange rate of 1.4179. The net mark-to-market gain on these hedge positions was $51 million at December 31, 2003.
Timing differences between the usage and designation of hedge contracts may result in deferred revenue or deferred charges. At December 31, 2003, deferred revenue to be recognized totaled $24 million.
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Operations
Uranium Mining
At McArthur River, the approach to sealing off the water inflow continues to be cautious and thorough in grouting, freezing and testing the area of the collapse. From a high of about 1,000 cubic metres per hour (m3/hr), the total mine inflow has been reduced to approximately 500 m3/hr at the end of 2003. It is expected that normal water inflow into the mine will stabilize at about 300 m3/hr once this work is completed, now expected by March 31, 2004. Prior to the flooding incident, normal water inflow was about 225 m3/hr.
In addition, permanent water treatment capacity has been expanded to about 750 m3/hr at the end of 2003, up from 450 m3/hr. During the water inflow incident, additional temporary capacity was put in place to handle the water flows. For 2004, plans are in place to increase the permanent water treatment capacity to about 1,000 m3/hr for contingency purposes.
Conversion
The Port Hope conversion facility currently supplies natural uranium dioxide powder for the manufacture of fuels for Candu reactors operating in Canada and other countries. The market for uranium dioxide is changing, at least partially, due to the planned use of slightly enriched uranium (SEU) in place of the natural uranium dioxide. SEU is a uranium dioxide powder that has an enrichment level of between 0.9% and 2.5% U-235, and is the primary uranium component of a new type of fuel that is proposed for use in some Candu reactors. Camecos Technology Development group developed the process to produce SEU providing the company an opportunity to capitalize on a changing market.
Initially the SEU will be produced for use in Bruce Powers B reactors as part of a power uprate project which is expected to add approximately 400 megawatts of power to Ontarios electricity grid. This reflects an increase of 8% over Bruce Bs current capacity. SEU is also the basis of the fuel expected to be required for the next generation of Candu reactors designed by Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd.
In 2003, Cameco has advanced the SEU project through the first stage of the regulatory process by filing a project proposal and receiving the approved Environmental Assessment (EA) guidelines from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). In 2004, important project milestones include completing and submitting the EA, completing the engineering design and preparing the Port Hope site for the construction of the SEU blending facility. Demonstration fuel bundles are to be placed in the Bruce B reactors some time in 2004.
The total annual quantity of SEU produced will depend on future market development. The SEU product would essentially replace some sales of the current natural product. (See also Outlook section Capital Expenditures.)
Page 15
Gold Restructuring
In early January 2004, Cameco announced that it had reached an agreement with the Kyrgyz Republic to create a new jointly owned Canadian gold company called Centerra Gold Inc. (Centerra).
Cameco subsidiaries will transfer their one-third interest in KGC and additional gold-related assets to Centerra. The Joint Stock Company Kyrgyzaltyn (Kyrgyzaltyn), whose shares are held 100% by the Kyrgyz government, will transfer its two-thirds interest in KGC to the new gold company. After the transfer of assets, Cameco subsidiaries will initially hold 67% and Kyrgyzaltyn will initially hold 33% of Centerra.
In conjunction with the transfer of gold assets, Centerra intends to undertake an initial public offering (IPO) in Canada and sell shares to the public. This means that Camecos and Kyrgyzaltyns ownership levels will be diluted and fall below the initial interest of 67% and 33% respectively. However, Cameco expects to hold a majority interest in Centerra following the IPO. Kyrgyzaltyn also has the option to acquire an additional 2% of Centerra from Cameco for 30 days after Centerra is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX).
Initially, Centerras assets will include the following:
| 100% of KGC, owner of the Kumtor gold mine located in the Kyrgyz Republic | |
| 100% of Kumtor Operating Company, operator the Kumtor mine | |
| 56% of AGR Limited (AGR), 95% owner of the Boroo gold mine located in Mongolia | |
| 62% interest in the REN joint venture, an advanced exploration project located in Nevada, US | |
| 73% interest in the exploration licences for the Gatsuurt exploration property located about 35 kilometers from Boroo in Mongolia |
In addition, about $130 million (US) in loans previously advanced by Cameco subsidiaries to the Kumtor and Boroo gold mines will be contributed by Cameco in exchange for equity in Centerra.
Closing is targeted for the second quarter of 2004 and is subject to a number of conditions including:
| consent from a number of third parties, including certain financial institutions, | |
| Centerra entering into an underwriting agreement for an IPO of Centerra shares, and | |
| the conditional listing of Centerra shares on the TSX. |
Cameco has negotiated a new agreement with the Kyrgyz government to ensure that a stable investment regime will be maintained in the Kyrgyz Republic for Centerra. The new agreement will take effect on closing. Centerra will have a 10-year tax stabilization period, during which the application of Kyrgyz tax legislation is not to increase the tax burden on the Kumtor operation.
With an agreement to create Centerra, an offer is planned to be made by March 1, 2004 to non-Cameco shareholders of AGR to exchange their AGR shares for Centerra shares.
Page 16
3. OUTLOOK FOR YEAR
Uranium Business
Uranium Production (Cameco's share) | ||||||||||||||||
(000s lbs U3O8) | 2004 | 2003 | Revised | Original | ||||||||||||
Plan | Actual | July 2003 | Plan 2003 | |||||||||||||
McArthur River/Key Lake |
12,900 | 10,579 | 9,400 | 13,000 | ||||||||||||
Rabbit Lake |
5,800 | 5,928 | 5,500 | 6,000 | ||||||||||||
Smith Ranch/Highland |
1,200 | 1,201 | 1,100 | 1,100 | ||||||||||||
Crow Butte |
800 | 823 | 800 | 800 | ||||||||||||
Inkai |
240 | 169 | | | ||||||||||||
Total |
20,940 | 18,700 | 16,800 | 20,900 | ||||||||||||
During the fourth quarter of 2003, excellent production performance was achieved at McArthur River, Key Lake and at Rabbit Lake. At McArthur River/Key Lake, the increased output helped to make up about one-third of the production lost due to the water inflow. At Rabbit Lake, production benefited late in the quarter from grades approaching 2%. For the year, all mining and milling operations met their revised targets and, coupled with initial production from the Inkai test mine in Kazakhstan, achieved uranium production of 18.7 million pounds U3O8.
In 2004, total mine production is expected to rise to 20.9 million pounds U3O8, up 2.2 million pounds or 12% from 2003. Production at McArthur River/Key Lake of 12.9 million pounds U3O8 is planned. When converted to a 100% basis, this essentially represents the maximum production level allowed under the current regulatory license.
At Rabbit Lake, the Eagle Point underground mine is expected to produce 5.9 million pounds in 2004, from its remaining reserves of about 12.5 million pounds U3O8. Prospects for additional reserves have been identified and surface drilling for targets near current workings as well as underground drilling to firm up a deeper target are expected to begin in the first quarter of 2004.
In the US, the in situ leach operations at the Smith Ranch/Highland mines have planned production of 1.2 million pounds while Crow Butte is expected to package 0.8 million pounds in 2004. Studies are underway to examine alternatives to increase production at these operations.
Uranium Revenue and Margins A Recent Update
On January 9, 2004, Cameco provided an update on its uranium contract prices in light of the dramatic rise in the spot price during 2003. The following is a summary of that update.
Page 17
Cameco has consistently expected uranium spot prices to increase significantly over the next several years. However, some of the recent and unexpected market developments have resulted in spot prices rising more quickly than anticipated. Cameco reminded investors that many of the companys contracts were signed some years ago when spot prices were much lower. As a result, many existing contracts have pricing terms which will limit the benefit of further spot price increases in 2004. The price impact will continue in a diminishing fashion in 2005, with much less impact by 2006.
The companys outlook for an improving uranium market has driven its contracting strategy. Over the past few years, Cameco has limited new sales commitments in the longer term beyond 2006 and retained as much upside pricing potential as possible while ensuring adequate cash flow with a mix of market-related and fixed price contracts.
At present, Cameco has more than 100 million pounds of uranium committed over the next five years. About 75% of the sales commitments in that five-year period will be delivered over the period 2004 to 2006. In 2004, Camecos uranium sales volumes are expected to total about 32 million pounds. Camecos committed sales decline rapidly over the period and they will be replaced in the normal course with contracts reflecting todays significantly improved market outlook.
Impact of Rising Spot Prices
For 2004, about 60% of Camecos uranium under long-term contract will be sold at prices which reference the spot market price near the time of delivery and 40% will be sold at fixed prices.
The companys spot market-related contracts generally contain ceiling prices. The average spot price increased by more than 40% during 2003 to end the year at $14.45 (US). As a result, some of Camecos market-related contracts reached ceiling prices in the near term. The impact of ceiling prices became significant as the spot price moved into the $14.00 (US) range. The current uranium spot price is about $15.20 per pound U3O8.
In addition, many of Camecos fixed price contracts were entered into a number of years ago when the uranium spot price was considerably lower than it is today and some of the older, more favorably priced contracts are expiring. As a result, in 2004, the prices realized from these fixed price contracts are expected to average lower than in 2003.
Uranium Revenue and Margins Outlook for 2004
In 2004, Camecos uranium revenue is projected to decline by about 5% compared to 2003 as the result of a 10% decline in sales volume. This decline in sales volume reflects Camecos plan to decrease the amount of uranium purchased on the spot market for resale. A modest improvement in price is expected to partially offset the impact of the decline in volume. Cameco expects its average realized price will increase by about 5% in 2004.
Uranium margins are expected to be stronger than in 2003 due to the higher average price and to lower costs. In 2003, the gross profit was burdened by the costs associated with the remediation of the McArthur River mine following the water inflow problem.
Page 18
Conversion Business
At Port Hope, conversion production is expected to be approximately 12,400 tonnes, a decline of 6% compared to 2003 output.
Revenue from the conversion business is likely to be about 5% lower than in 2003 due primarily to a 3% decline in sales volume. A modest decrease in realized price as a result of foreign exchange rates is also anticipated. Conversion margins are projected to decline compared to 2003. The unit cost of conversion production is likely to increase as a result of lower expected output. The unit cost of purchased conversion is also expected to rise as lower cost sources of supply are diminished.
Electricity Business
Output
The targeted capacity factor in 2004 for the six Bruce reactors is 80% compared to 85% in 2003, which reflects planned maintenance outages for two Bruce B reactors and two Bruce A reactors during the year. In addition, the vacuum building for Bruce B will be tested in the fall, which will require all four B reactors to be taken offline for about a month. This vacuum building test is a regulatory requirement. Results from Bruce Power are projected to decline modestly in 2004 compared to 2003 due primarily to increased costs from the planned outages.
Capital expenditures
In 2004, Bruce Powers capital expenditure program for the two A and four B reactors are expected to total about $280 million, plus an additional $120 million for sustaining capital and site service support areas expenditures.
2004 Bruce Power Capital Expenditures (100%)
|
Bruce B turbines/power uprate | 160 | ||||||
|
Bruce A unit 4 steam generators | 25 | ||||||
|
Infrastructure projects | 95 | ||||||
Sub-total |
280 | |||||||
|
Sustaining capital and site service support areas | 120 | ||||||
Total |
400 |
Bruce Power capital expenditures are anticipated to average about $200 million for each of 2005 and 2006. This excludes sustaining capital and site service support areas expenditures, which are expected to average about $120 million per year.
These capital projects will provide higher plant output for the Bruce B units, deliver the expected operational life for Bruce A unit 4 and increase overall efficiency for the site. These projects are the fundamental building blocks for enhancing operational performance and will allow Bruce Power to supply more power to the growing Ontario electricity market.
Page 19
Cameco does not expect it will be required to contribute to the funding of these projects. However, actual funding needs will depend on the electricity price and the operational performance of the Bruce reactors.
Gold Business
For 2004, production at Kumtor is expected to be 610,000 ounces representing a 10% decrease compared to 2003. This decline is due to the milling plan which calls for a mix of low grade stockpiled ore and higher grade mine ore. As a result, a lower average ore grade is expected, 4.1 grams per tonne compared to 4.5 grams per tonne in 2003. The unit cash cost is projected to increase to $220 (US) per ounce from $199 per ounce in 2003. Mining of existing high-grade ore reserves is expected to finish at the end of 2004 and will return to the lower grade ore.
At Boroo, mine construction is complete and commissioning is ongoing with commercial production expected in the first quarter of 2004. The estimated cost of the project remains at about $75 million (US) plus capitalized costs during the pre-production phase. Boroo production is expected to total about 210,000 ounces in 2004, at a cash cost of approximately $170 (US) per ounce.
Capital Expenditures
Capital Expenditures | |||||||||
(Cameco's share in $ millions) | 2004 Plan | 2003 Actual | |||||||
Sustaining Capital |
|||||||||
McArthur River/Key Lake |
$ | 43 | $ | 11 | |||||
US ISL |
16 | 8 | |||||||
Rabbit Lake |
7 | 6 | |||||||
Conversion Services |
22 | 6 | |||||||
Kumtor |
3 | 7 | |||||||
Other |
3 | 8 | |||||||
Total Sustaining |
$ | 94 | $ | 46 | |||||
New Development |
|||||||||
Cigar Lake |
$ | 32 | $ | 10 | |||||
Conversion Services |
15 | | |||||||
Inkai |
4 | 4 | |||||||
Boroo |
| 81 | |||||||
Total Development |
$ | 51 | $ | 95 | |||||
Capitalized interest |
9 | 13 | |||||||
Total |
$ | 154 | $ | 154 | |||||
In 2004, total capital expenditures are expected to be unchanged at $154 million. In 2004, sustaining capital expenditures are expected to be higher than in 2003 due to ongoing mine development work, pumping and water treatment projects at McArthur River, and well field expansions at the US ISL operations. Capital spending will also increase at conversion services to improve production processes and meet regulatory requirements.
Page 20
For new development projects, total expenditures are projected to be $60 million, a decrease of $48 million compared to 2003. The decline is attributable to the completion of construction at Boroo and partially offset by increased expenditures at Cigar Lake and conversion services.
At Cigar Lake, the construction license is now expected in late 2004. In the meantime, activities requiring considerable advanced planning are expected to continue. Procurement is planned for several long-lead time items including the number two hoist and head frame complex, the freezing system, freeze hole drilling and the electrical distribution system.
At the Inkai development project in Kazakhstan, the feasibility study is completed and the results are being reviewed. The feasibility results need to be approved by the Inkai joint venture partner. Subject to these approvals, test mining is planned to continue through 2004 as a detailed mine design is prepared and an application for a construction permit is submitted to the local authorities. Pending receipt of the permit, construction would follow in 2005 and the first half of 2006 with production expected to begin toward the end of 2006.
Sensitivity Analysis
Uranium Price
With the recent increase in the uranium spot price, a significant proportion of the deliveries in 2004 are likely to be influenced by price ceilings. Consequently, a $1.00 (US) increase in the U3O8 spot price from $14.50 (US) per pound would improve revenue by about $9 million (Cdn), net earnings by about $5 million (Cdn) and cash flow by about $4 million (Cdn). Conversely, a $1.00 (US) decrease in the U3O8 spot price from $14.50 (US) would reduce revenue by about $11 million (Cdn), net earnings by about $7 million (Cdn) and cash flow by about $6 million (Cdn).
Gold Price
For 2004, about 70% of forecasted gold sales are unhedged. A $10 (US) per ounce change in the gold spot price would change each of revenue, net earnings and cash flow by about $3 million (Cdn).
Electricity Price
For 2004, about 55% of forecast generation is to be sold at spot prices. A $1.00 (Cdn) per MWh change in the spot price for electricity in Ontario would change Camecos after-tax earnings from Bruce Power by about $4 million (Cdn).
Conversion Price
In the short term, Camecos financial results are relatively insensitive to changes in the spot price for conversion. The majority of conversion sales are at fixed prices.
Foreign Exchange
Most uranium and conversion US dollar inflows are hedged through a combination of forward sales of US currency and natural hedges. For 2004, Camecos economic exposure to changes in the US/Cdn foreign exchange rate is low.
Page 21
4. OUTLOOK FOR FIRST QUARTER 2004
Consolidated revenue in the first quarter of 2004 is expected to be higher than in the first quarter of 2003 reflecting increased deliveries in the uranium and conversion businesses. Earnings from the uranium segment are expected to be similar to the first quarter of 2003 as lower realized prices offset the benefit of the increased deliveries. Uranium sales in the first quarter of 2003 had the highest average price of any quarter in the year. Results in the conversion and gold businesses are projected to be higher than in the first quarter of 2003. Conversion will benefit from increased volume while the improvement in gold is based on a higher realized selling price.
Earnings from Bruce Power are expected to be lower in the first quarter of 2004 than in the first quarter of 2003. This assumes that the Bruce Power units will achieve a lower capacity factor in the first quarter of 2004 compared to 100% reached in the same period of 2003, which is expected to result in higher unit operating costs. One Bruce A unit is scheduled for a planned maintenance outage towards the end of the first quarter for approximately a month. In addition, it is assumed that the electricity spot price in the first quarter of 2004 will not reach an average of $76 per MWh, which was unusually high due to the severe winter weather experienced in the first quarter of 2003.
Consolidated earnings for the first quarter of 2004 are expected to be moderately lower than those recorded in the same period last year.
DIVIDEND ANNOUNCEMENT
Cameco also announced today that the companys board of directors declared its regular quarterly dividend of $0.15 (Cdn) per common share payable on April 15, 2004, to shareholders of record at the close of business on March 31, 2004.
CONFERENCE CALL
Cameco invites you to join an investor relations and media conference call on Wednesday, January 28, 2004 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Eastern time (9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Saskatoon time).
The call will be open to all members of the investment community. Members of the media will be invited to ask questions at the end of the call. In order to join the conference call on Wednesday, January 28, please dial (416) 695-5261 or (800) 769-8320 (Canada and US). An operator will put your call through. Alternatively an audio feed of the conference call will be available on the web site at www.cameco.com by using Windows Media Player or Real Player software. See the link on the home page on the day of the call. Please pass this invitation to colleagues in your organization who have an interest in Cameco.
Page 22
PROFILE
Cameco, with its head office in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, is the worlds largest producer of uranium and the largest supplier of combined uranium and conversion services. The companys competitive position is based upon its controlling ownership of the worlds largest, high-grade reserves and low-cost operations. Camecos uranium products are used to generate clean electricity in nuclear power plants around the world including Ontario where the company has an interest in a partnership which generates nuclear electricity. The company also mines gold and explores for uranium and gold in North America, Australia and Asia. Camecos shares trade on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges.
CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
Statements contained in this news release which are not historical facts are forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause such differences, without limiting the generality of the following, include: volatility and sensitivity to market prices for uranium, electricity in Ontario and gold; the impact of the sales volume of uranium, conversion services, electricity generated and gold; competition; the impact of change in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates; imprecision in reserve estimates; environmental and safety risks including increased regulatory burdens; unexpected geological or hydrological conditions; political risks arising from operating in certain developing countries; a possible deterioration in political support for nuclear energy; changes in government regulations and policies, including trade laws and policies; demand for nuclear power; replacement of production and failure to obtain necessary permits and approvals from government authorities; legislative and regulatory initiatives regarding deregulation, regulation or restructuring of the electric utility industry in Ontario; Ontario electricity rate regulations; weather and other natural phenomena; ability to maintain and further improve positive labour relations; operating performance of the facilities; success of planned development projects; and other development and operating risks.
Although Cameco believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on these statements, which only apply as of the date of this report. Cameco disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Investor & media inquiries: | Alice Wong | (306) 956-6337 | ||
Investor inquiries | Bob Lillie | (306) 956-6639 | ||
Media inquiries | Lyle Krahn | (306) 956-6316 |
Page 23
INVESTOR INFORMATION
Common Shares | Investor Inquiries | Transfer Agent | ||
CCO The Toronto Stock Exchange |
Cameco Corporation 2121 11th Street West Saskatoon, Saskatchewan S7M 1J3 |
CIBC Mellon Trust Company 320 Bay Street, P.O. Box 1 Toronto, Ontario M5H 4A6 |
||
CCJ New York Stock Exchange |
Phone: 306-956-6200 Fax: 306-956-6318 Web: www.cameco.com |
Phone: 800-387-0825 (North America) Phone: 416-643-5500 (outside North America) |
||
Preferred Securities CCJPR |
||||
New York Stock Exchange | ||||
Convertible Debentures | ||||
CCODB | ||||
The Toronto Stock Exchange |
Page 24
Cameco Corporation
Financial Statements
December 31, 2003
Cameco Corporation
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Unaudited)
(In Thousands)
(Restated) | |||||||||
As At | |||||||||
Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||
Assets |
|||||||||
Current assets |
|||||||||
Cash |
$ | 84,069 | $ | 58,096 | |||||
Accounts receivable |
181,337 | 186,369 | |||||||
Inventories |
316,435 | 339,684 | |||||||
Supplies and prepaid expenses |
41,571 | 45,731 | |||||||
Current portion of long-term receivables, investments and other |
54,866 | 20,163 | |||||||
678,278 | 650,043 | ||||||||
Property, plant and equipment |
2,072,156 | 2,060,250 | |||||||
Long-term receivables, investments and other |
608,977 | 257,523 | |||||||
2,681,133 | 2,317,773 | ||||||||
Total assets |
$ | 3,359,411 | $ | 2,967,816 | |||||
Liabilities and Shareholders Equity |
|||||||||
Current liabilities |
|||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities |
$ | 156,112 | $ | 131,932 | |||||
Dividends payable |
11,598 | 6,998 | |||||||
Current portion of long-term debt |
4,331 | 6,318 | |||||||
Current portion of other liabilities |
1,563 | 16,931 | |||||||
Future income taxes |
24,237 | 9,198 | |||||||
197,841 | 171,377 | ||||||||
Long-term debt |
238,707 | 218,290 | |||||||
Provision for reclamation [note 1] |
150,444 | 159,344 | |||||||
Other liabilities |
36,196 | 9,523 | |||||||
Future income taxes |
501,674 | 530,625 | |||||||
1,124,862 | 1,089,159 | ||||||||
Minority interest |
14,690 | 18,078 | |||||||
Shareholders equity |
|||||||||
Preferred securities |
158,022 | 193,763 | |||||||
Convertible debentures [note 4] |
226,444 | | |||||||
Share capital |
708,345 | 680,934 | |||||||
Contributed surplus |
474,927 | 472,488 | |||||||
Retained earnings |
665,377 | 494,341 | |||||||
Cumulative translation account |
(13,256 | ) | 19,053 | ||||||
2,219,859 | 1,860,579 | ||||||||
Total liabilities and shareholders equity |
$ | 3,359,411 | $ | 2,967,816 | |||||
1
Cameco Corporation
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
(Unaudited)
(In Thousands)
(Restated) | |||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended | Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||||
Revenue from |
|||||||||||||||||
Products and services |
$ | 271,930 | $ | 271,087 | $ | 826,946 | $ | 748,334 | |||||||||
Expenses |
|||||||||||||||||
Products and services sold |
160,075 | 178,971 | 538,823 | 486,155 | |||||||||||||
Depreciation, depletion and reclamation |
38,178 | 28,036 | 124,489 | 116,958 | |||||||||||||
Administration |
15,989 | 13,329 | 47,011 | 41,693 | |||||||||||||
Exploration |
6,583 | 6,593 | 21,923 | 21,532 | |||||||||||||
Research and development |
426 | 502 | 1,717 | 2,257 | |||||||||||||
Interest and other [note 6] |
497 | (662 | ) | 4,737 | (1,957 | ) | |||||||||||
Gain on property interests |
| | | (2,670 | ) | ||||||||||||
221,748 | 226,769 | 738,700 | 663,968 | ||||||||||||||
Earnings from operations |
50,182 | 44,318 | 88,246 | 84,366 | |||||||||||||
Earnings from Bruce Power |
5,794 | 8,156 | 107,921 | 15,769 | |||||||||||||
Other income (expenses) |
(673 | ) | (1,083 | ) | 429 | (878 | ) | ||||||||||
Earnings before income taxes and minority interest |
55,303 | 51,391 | 196,596 | 99,257 | |||||||||||||
Income tax expense (recovery) [note 7] |
23,074 | 27,715 | (15,994 | ) | 47,265 | ||||||||||||
Minority interest |
(2,519 | ) | (748 | ) | (3,416 | ) | (871 | ) | |||||||||
Net earnings |
34,748 | 24,424 | 216,006 | 52,863 | |||||||||||||
Preferred securities charges, net of tax |
2,563 | 2,301 | 9,030 | 9,340 | |||||||||||||
Convertible debenture charges, net of tax [note 4] |
2,178 | | 2,290 | | |||||||||||||
Net earnings attributable to common shares |
$ | 30,007 | $ | 22,123 | $ | 204,686 | $ | 43,523 | |||||||||
Basic earnings per common share [note 8] |
$ | 0.53 | $ | 0.40 | $ | 3.65 | $ | 0.78 | |||||||||
Diluted earnings per common share [note 8] |
$ | 0.52 | $ | 0.40 | $ | 3.58 | $ | 0.78 | |||||||||
Cameco Corporation
Consolidated Statements of Retained Earnings
(Unaudited)
(In Thousands)
(Restated) | |||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended | Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||||
Retained earnings at beginning of period, |
|||||||||||||||||
As previously reported |
$ | 633,131 | $ | 465,935 | $ | 483,658 | $ | 465,420 | |||||||||
Change in accounting policy for reclamation [note 1] |
10,683 | 13,280 | 10,683 | 13,280 | |||||||||||||
As restated |
$ | 643,814 | $ | 479,215 | $ | 494,341 | $ | 478,700 | |||||||||
Net earnings |
34,748 | 24,424 | 216,006 | 52,863 | |||||||||||||
Dividends on common shares |
(8,444 | ) | (6,997 | ) | (33,650 | ) | (27,882 | ) | |||||||||
Preferred securities charges, net of tax |
(2,563 | ) | (2,301 | ) | (9,030 | ) | (9,340 | ) | |||||||||
Convertible debenture charges, net of tax [note 4] |
(2,178 | ) | | (2,290 | ) | | |||||||||||
Retained earnings at end of period |
$ | 665,377 | $ | 494,341 | $ | 665,377 | $ | 494,341 | |||||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
2
Cameco Corporation
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited)
(In Thousands)
(Restated) | ||||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended | Year Ended | |||||||||||||||||
Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | |||||||||||||||
Operating activities |
||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings |
$ | 34,748 | $ | 24,424 | $ | 216,006 | $ | 52,863 | ||||||||||
Items not requiring (providing) cash: |
||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation, depletion and reclamation |
38,178 | 28,036 | 124,489 | 116,958 | ||||||||||||||
Provision for future taxes |
16,408 | 20,869 | (26,213 | ) | 36,996 | |||||||||||||
Deferred charges (revenue) recognized |
1,364 | 983 | 9,331 | 1,375 | ||||||||||||||
Earnings from Bruce Power |
(5,794 | ) | (8,156 | ) | (107,921 | ) | (15,769 | ) | ||||||||||
Equity in (earnings) loss from associated companies |
673 | 1,083 | 1,494 | 1,083 | ||||||||||||||
Minority interest |
(4,313 | ) | (871 | ) | (3,416 | ) | (871 | ) | ||||||||||
Gain on property interests |
| | | (2,670 | ) | |||||||||||||
Other operating items |
(4,850 | ) | (52,095 | ) | 32,123 | 60,877 | ||||||||||||
Cash provided by operations |
76,414 | 14,273 | 245,893 | 250,842 | ||||||||||||||
Investing activities |
||||||||||||||||||
Additions to property, plant and equipment |
(47,396 | ) | (35,361 | ) | (159,570 | ) | (90,226 | ) | ||||||||||
Increase in long-term receivables, investments and other |
333 | (13,588 | ) | (288,259 | ) | (42,597 | ) | |||||||||||
Decrease in long-term receivables, investments and other |
| 6,618 | | 58,296 | ||||||||||||||
Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment |
242 | 101 | 242 | 101 | ||||||||||||||
Cash used in investing |
(46,821 | ) | (42,230 | ) | (447,587 | ) | (74,426 | ) | ||||||||||
Financing activities |
||||||||||||||||||
Decrease in debt |
(117,700 | ) | (74,270 | ) | (25,848 | ) | (130,295 | ) | ||||||||||
Increase in debt |
| | 50,311 | 1,379 | ||||||||||||||
Restricted cash |
342 | 11,138 | 342 | 11,138 | ||||||||||||||
Issue of convertible debentures, net of issue costs |
| | 223,032 | | ||||||||||||||
Issue of shares, net of issue costs |
17,919 | (315 | ) | 27,411 | 10,903 | |||||||||||||
Preferred securities charges |
(3,676 | ) | (4,291 | ) | (15,306 | ) | (17,238 | ) | ||||||||||
Dividends |
(8,444 | ) | (6,998 | ) | (32,275 | ) | (27,944 | ) | ||||||||||
Cash provided by (used in) financing |
(111,396 | ) | (74,736 | ) | 227,667 | (152,057 | ) | |||||||||||
Increase (decrease) in cash during the period |
(81,803 | ) | (102,693 | ) | 25,973 | 24,359 | ||||||||||||
Cash at beginning of period |
165,872 | 160,789 | 58,096 | 33,737 | ||||||||||||||
Cash at end of period |
$ | 84,069 | $ | 58,096 | $ | 84,069 | $ | 58,096 | ||||||||||
Supplemental cash flow disclosure |
||||||||||||||||||
Interest paid |
$ | 4,779 | $ | 4,262 | $ | 20,675 | $ | 16,572 | ||||||||||
Income taxes paid |
$ | 1,311 | $ | 2,689 | $ | 11,537 | $ | 5,309 | ||||||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
3
Cameco Corporation
Highlights
(Unaudited)
(Restated) | |||||||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended | Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||
Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||||||||
Financial (in millions) |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 272 | $ | 271 | $ | 827 | $ | 748 | |||||||||||||
Earnings from operations |
50 | 44 | 88 | 84 | |||||||||||||||||
Net earnings attributable to common shares |
30 | 22 | 205 | 44 | |||||||||||||||||
Cash provided by operations |
76 | 14 | 246 | 251 | |||||||||||||||||
Working capital (end of period) |
480 | 479 | |||||||||||||||||||
Net debt to capitalization |
7 | % | 8 | % | |||||||||||||||||
Per common share |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings |
- Basic | $ | 0.53 | $ | 0.40 | $ | 3.65 | $ | 0.78 | ||||||||||||
- Diluted | 0.52 | 0.40 | 3.58 | 0.78 | |||||||||||||||||
Dividend |
0.15 | 0.125 | 0.60 | 0.50 | |||||||||||||||||
Weighted average number of paid common
shares outstanding (in thousands) |
56,451 | 55,854 | 56,120 | 55,781 | |||||||||||||||||
Average uranium spot price for the period (US$/lb) |
$ | 13.62 | $ | 9.95 | $ | 11.54 | $ | 9.86 | |||||||||||||
Sales volumes |
|||||||||||||||||||||
Uranium (in thousands lbs U3O8) |
11,116 | 11,334 | 35,412 | 31,861 | |||||||||||||||||
Uranium conversion (tU) |
5,446 | 5,268 | 16,747 | 15,276 | |||||||||||||||||
Gold (troy ounces) |
76,466 | 41,865 | 234,864 | 174,394 | |||||||||||||||||
Electricity (TWh) |
1.9 | 0.8 | 7.2 | 3.1 |
Note: Currency amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars unless stated otherwise.
Three Months Ended | Year Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||
Camecos | |||||||||||||||||||||
Cameco Production | Share | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||||||
Uranium production (in thousands lbs U3O8) |
|||||||||||||||||||||
McArthur River |
69.8 | % | 3,679 | 2,449 | 10,579 | 12,905 | |||||||||||||||
Rabbit Lake |
100.0 | % | 1,763 | 935 | 5,928 | 1,143 | |||||||||||||||
Key Lake |
83.3 | % | | | | 190 | |||||||||||||||
Crow Butte |
100.0 | % | 208 | 201 | 823 | 768 | |||||||||||||||
Smith Ranch Highland |
100.0 | % | 295 | 345 | 1,201 | 887 | |||||||||||||||
Inkai |
60.0 | % | 169 | | 169 | | |||||||||||||||
Total |
6,114 | 3,930 | 18,700 | 15,893 | |||||||||||||||||
Uranium conversion (tU) |
100.0 | % | 4,059 | 3,754 | 13,273 | 12,428 | |||||||||||||||
Gold (troy ounces) |
33.3 | % | 69,226 | 47,399 | 225,851 | 176,183 |
4
Cameco Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
1. | Accounting Policies These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles and follow the same accounting principles and methods of application as the most recent annual consolidated financial statements, except as noted below. The financial statements should be read in conjunction with Camecos annual consolidated financial statements included in the 2002 annual report. Certain comparative figures for the prior period have been reclassified to conform to the current periods presentation. |
(i) Stock-Based Compensation Cameco has adopted the fair value method of accounting for employee stock options with retroactive effect from January 1, 2003. Pursuant to new transitional rules relating to CICA Handbook Section 3870, Cameco chose to record compensation expense for all employee stock options granted on or after January 1, 2003 with a corresponding increase to contributed surplus. Compensation expense for options granted during 2003 is determined based on the estimated fair values at the time of grant, the cost of which is recognized over the vesting periods of the respective options. This change in accounting policy has increased expenses by $2.4 million in 2003. |
(ii) Asset Retirement Obligations In March 2003, the CICA issued Handbook Section 3110 Asset Retirement Obligations. Section 3110 comes into effect for fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2004. Cameco chose to adopt this Standard in 2003. This change in accounting policy was applied retroactively and, accordingly, the consolidated financial statements of prior periods were restated. This section addresses financial accounting and reporting for obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and the associated asset retirement costs. The standard applies to legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets that result from the acquisition, construction, development and use of the asset. Section 3110 requires that the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation be recognized in the period incurred. The fair value is added to the carrying amount of the associated asset and depreciated over the assets useful life. The liability is accreted over time through charges to earnings. This differs from the current practice which involves accruing for the estimated reclamation and closure liability through annual charges to earnings over the estimated life of the asset. |
The cumulative effect of the change in policy on the balance sheet at December 31, 2002 is to increase property, plant and equipment by $23 million, future income taxes by $8 million, liabilities by $4 million and opening retained earnings by $13 million. The effect of the change in policy on the statement of earnings for December 31, 2002 was a $3 million reduction in earnings. |
2. | Bruce Power (a) Investment in Bruce Power L.P. (Bruce Power) On February 14, 2003, Cameco, TransCanada PipeLines Limited (TransCanada) and BPC Generation Infrastructure Trust (BPC), amongst others, purchased a 79.8% interest in Bruce Power from British Energy plc (British Energy). Upon closing, Cameco increased its ownership interest in Bruce Power from 15% to 31.6%. TransCanada and BPC each hold, directly or indirectly, a 31.6% interest in Bruce Power with the Power Workers Union Trust holding a 4% interest and the Society of Energy Professionals Trust holding a 1.2% interest. Cameco is using the equity method to account for this investment. |
Camecos purchase price for the additional interest in Bruce Power was approximately $204 million, including final closing adjustments. The purchase price was initially financed with cash and debt. The purchase price of Camecos incremental 16.6% has been allocated as follows: |
(Millions) | ||||
Net book value of assets acquired |
$ | 149 | ||
Excess of fair value over book value of assets acquired |
145 | |||
Pension liability |
(21 | ) | ||
Valuation of Bruce Power sales agreements |
(69 | ) | ||
$ | 204 | |||
5
Cameco Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
2. | Bruce Power (continued) The amount allocated to the investment in Bruce Power includes an excess purchase price of approximately $144 million over Camecos incremental share of the book value of the underlying net assets. This amount will be amortized to income based on the expected useful life of the Bruce Power assets which extends to 2018. The valuation of Bruce Power sales contracts will be amortized to income over the remaining term of the underlying sales contracts, which extend to 2007. The approximate amount of pre-tax income relating to the amortization of the fair value allocated to these contracts is as follows: |
(Millions) | ||||
2003 |
$ | 20 | ||
2004 |
19 | |||
2005 |
14 | |||
2006 |
15 | |||
2007 |
1 | |||
Total |
$ | 69 | ||
The amount allocated to the pension liability will be amortized to income over the 11 year expected average remaining service life of Bruce Power employees, resulting in an annual pre-tax amortization to income of $1.9 million. |
In addition, Cameco, TransCanada and BPC loaned Bruce Power funds to repay $225 million, plus accrued interest, in deferred lease payments to Ontario Power Generation Inc. (OPG). Camecos share was $75 million plus accrued interest. |
Cameco, TransCanada and BPC have assumed the obligations to provide financial guarantees on behalf of the partnership. Cameco has provided the following financial assurances, with varying terms that range from 2003 to 2018: |
(i) | Licensing assurances to Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission of $88 million. | ||
(ii) | Guarantees to customers under power sale agreements of up to $127 million. At December 31, 2003, Camecos actual exposure under these guarantees was $44 million. | ||
(iii) | Termination payments to OPG pursuant to the lease agreement of $58 million. |
6
Cameco Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
2. | Bruce Power (continued) (b) Summary Financial Information Bruce Power Limited Partnership (100% basis) |
(i) Income Statements |
Years Ended | ||||||||
(millions) | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||
Revenue |
$ | 1,208 | $ | 919 | ||||
Operating costs |
853 | 750 | ||||||
Earnings before interest and taxes |
355 | 169 | ||||||
Interest |
69 | 63 | ||||||
Earnings before taxes |
286 | 106 | ||||||
Camecos share (a) |
77 | 16 | ||||||
Adjustments (b) |
31 | | ||||||
Camecos share of earnings before taxes |
$ | 108 | $ | 16 | ||||
(a) | Camecos interest in Bruce Power earnings prior to February 14, 2003 was 15%. Subsequent to the acquisition of an additional 16.6% interest on February 14, 2003, Camecos share is 31.6%. |
(b) | In addition to its proportionate share of earnings from Bruce Power, Cameco records certain adjustments to account for any differences in accounting policy and to amortize fair values assigned to assets and liabilities at the time of acquisition. |
(ii) | Balance Sheets |
(millions) | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | |||||||
Assets |
|||||||||
Current assets |
$ | 290 | $ | 232 | |||||
Property, plant and equipment |
2,032 | 1,623 | |||||||
Long-term receivables, and investments |
201 | 214 | |||||||
$ | 2,523 | $ | 2,069 | ||||||
Liabilities and Partners Capital |
|||||||||
Current liabilities |
$ | 194 | $ | 154 | |||||
Long-term debt |
1,244 | 1,115 | |||||||
1,438 | 1,269 | ||||||||
Partners capital |
1,085 | 800 | |||||||
$ | 2,523 | $ | 2,069 | ||||||
(iii) | Cash Flows |
Years Ended | ||||||||
(millions) | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||
Cash provided by operations |
$ | 387 | $ | 185 | ||||
Cash used in investing |
(528 | ) | (432 | ) | ||||
Cash provided by financing |
131 | 220 |
7
Cameco Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
3. | Long-Term Debt Camecos contingent obligation under guarantees of the repayment of Kumtor senior debt exceeds the amount included in Camecos long-term debt at December 31, 2003 by $11.3 million (US). |
4. | Convertible Debentures On September 25, 2003, the company issued unsecured convertible debentures in the amount of $230 million. The debentures bear interest at 5% per annum, mature on October 1, 2013, and at the holders option are convertible into common shares of the company. The conversion price is $65 per share, a rate of approximately 15.4 common shares per $1,000 of convertible debentures. Interest is payable semi-annually in arrears on April 1 and October 1. The debentures are redeemable by the company beginning October 1, 2008 at a redemption price of par plus accrued and unpaid interest. |
The convertible debentures are being accounted for in accordance with their substance and the principal amounts, net of after-tax issue costs, have been classified as equity. The interest payments, on an after-tax basis, will be classified as distributions of equity. |
The fair value of the outstanding convertible debentures is based on the quoted market price of the debentures at December 31, 2003 and was approximately $308 million. |
5. | Share Capital |
a) | At December 31, 2003, there were 56,769,423 common shares outstanding. b) Options in respect of 2,040,000 shares are outstanding under the stock option plan and are exercisable up to 2011. Upon exercise of certain existing options, additional options in respect of 184,550 shares would be granted. | |
b) | Options in respect of 2,040,000 shares are outstanding under the stock option plan and are exercisable up to 2011. Upon exercise of certain existing options, additional options in respect of 184,550 shares would be granted. |
6. | Interest and Other |
Three Months Ended | Years Ended | |||||||||||||||
(thousands) | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||
Interest on long-term debt |
$ | 4,780 | $ | 3,617 | $ | 19,715 | $ | 14,478 | ||||||||
Other interest and financing
charges |
746 | 710 | 2,221 | 2,039 | ||||||||||||
Interest income |
(703 | ) | (1,424 | ) | (6,776 | ) | (6,842 | ) | ||||||||
Foreign exchange (gains) losses |
241 | 331 | 3,620 | (1,648 | ) | |||||||||||
Mark-to-market (gains) losses |
| (878 | ) | | 1,811 | |||||||||||
Capitalized interest |
(4,567 | ) | (3,018 | ) | (14,043 | ) | (11,795 | ) | ||||||||
Net |
$ | 497 | $ | (662 | ) | $ | 4,737 | $ | (1,957 | ) | ||||||
7. | Income Tax Expense |
(Restated) | ||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended | Years Ended | |||||||||||||||
(thousands) | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||
Current income taxes |
$ | 6,666 | $ | 4,846 | $ | 10,219 | $ | 10,269 | ||||||||
Future income taxes |
16,408 | 22,869 | (26,213 | ) | 36,996 | |||||||||||
Income tax expense (recovery) |
$ | 23,074 | $ | 27,715 | $ | (15,994 | ) | $ | 47,265 | |||||||
In the second quarter of 2003, the federal government introduced amendments to the Canadian Income Tax Act which provide for a reduction in the corporate tax rate on income from resource activities. The cumulative effect of the change in income tax legislation on Camecos future income tax liability was $86.2 million. |
In 2003, the Ontario government introduced amendments to the Corporations Tax Act which provide for an increase in the corporate tax rate on all income. The cumulative effect of the change in income tax legislation on Camecos future income tax liability was $4.9 million. |
8
Cameco Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
8. | Per Share Amounts |
(Restated) | |||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended | Years Ended | ||||||||||||||||
Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | Dec 31/03 | Dec 31/02 | ||||||||||||||
Basic earnings per share computation |
|||||||||||||||||
Earnings available to common shareholders |
$ | 30,007 | $ | 22,123 | $ | 204,686 | $ | 43,523 | |||||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding |
56,451 | 55,854 | 56,120 | 55,781 | |||||||||||||
Basic earnings per common share |
$ | 0.53 | $ | 0.40 | $ | 3.65 | $ | 0.78 | |||||||||
Diluted earnings per share computation |
|||||||||||||||||
Earnings available to common shareholders |
$ | 30,007 | $ | 22,123 | $ | 204,686 | $ | 43,523 | |||||||||
Dilutive effect of: |
|||||||||||||||||
Convertible debentures |
(a | ) | | 2,290 | | ||||||||||||
Earnings available to common
shareholders, assuming dilution |
$ | 30,007 | $ | 22,123 | $ | 206,976 | $ | 43,523 | |||||||||
Weighted average common shares outstanding |
56,451 | 55,854 | 56,120 | 55,781 | |||||||||||||
Dilutive effect of: |
|||||||||||||||||
Convertible debentures |
(a | ) | | 950 | | ||||||||||||
Stock options |
769 | 128 | 649 | 35 | |||||||||||||
Other stock-based arrangements |
34 | 24 | 34 | 24 | |||||||||||||
Weighted average common shares
outstanding, assuming dilution |
57,254 | 56,006 | 57,753 | 55,840 | |||||||||||||
Diluted earnings per common share |
$ | 0.52 | $ | 0.40 | $ | 3.58 | $ | 0.78 | |||||||||
Options whose exercise price was greater than the average market price were excluded from this calculation. |
(a) Excluded from the calculation as the instrument was not potentially dilutive to earnings during the period. |
9. | Stock-Based Compensation (note 1) CICA Handbook Section 3870 establishes a fair value based method of accounting for stock-based compensation plans which Cameco has adopted with retroactive effect from January 1, 2003. |
For the year ended December 31, 2003, Cameco has recorded compensation expense of $2.4 million with an offsetting credit to contributed surplus to reflect the estimated fair value of stock options granted to employees in 2003. |
Cameco has applied the pro forma disclosure provisions of the standard to awards granted on or after January 1, 2002 but prior to January 1, 2003. The pro forma effect of awards granted prior to January 1, 2002 has not been included. The pro forma net earnings attributable to common shares, basic and diluted earnings per share as a result of the grant of these options are: |
9
Cameco Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
9. | Stock-based compensation (continued) |
(Restated) | ||||||||
2003 | 2002 | |||||||
Pro forma net earnings attributable to common
shares |
$ | 203,233 | $ | 41,303 | ||||
Pro forma basic earnings per share |
$ | 3.61 | $ | 0.74 | ||||
Pro forma diluted earnings per share |
$ | 3.56 | $ | 0.74 |
The fair value of the options issued was determined using of the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following assumptions: |
2003 | 2002 | |||||||
Number of options granted |
706,350 | 489,050 | ||||||
Average strike price |
$ | 38.62 | $ | 43.84 | ||||
Dividend |
$ | 0.60 | $ | 0.50 | ||||
Expected volatility |
20 | % | 20 | % | ||||
Risk-free interest rate |
4.1 | % | 5.0 | % | ||||
Expected life of option | 5 years | 5 years | ||||||
Expected forfeitures |
10 | % | 17 | % | ||||
Weighted average grant date fair
values |
$ | 8.14 | $ | 10.83 |
10
Cameco Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
10. | Segmented Information |
(a) | (a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the three months ended December 31, 2003 | Uranium | Conversion | Gold | Power | Subtotal | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 185,770 | $ | 47,242 | $ | 38,918 | $ | 91,044 | $ | 362,974 | ($91,044 | ) | $ | 271,930 | |||||||||||||||
Expenses |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Products and services sold |
119,796 | 26,029 | 14,250 | 72,554 | 232,629 | (72,554 | ) | 160,075 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation, depletion and reclamation |
28,201 | 3,570 | 6,407 | 10,489 | 48,667 | (10,489 | ) | 38,178 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Exploration |
3,552 | | 3,031 | | 6,583 | 6,583 | |||||||||||||||||||||||
Research & development |
| 426 | | 426 | 426 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other |
673 | | | 2,207 | 2,880 | (2,207 | ) | 673 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings from Bruce Power |
(5,794 | ) | (5,794 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-segmented expenses |
16,486 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings before income taxes |
33,548 | 17,217 | 15,230 | 5,794 | 71,789 | | 55,303 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense |
23,074 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Minority interest |
(2,519 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings |
34,748 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred securities charges, net of tax |
2,563 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Convertible debenture charges, net of tax |
2,178 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings attributable to common shares |
$ | 30,007 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(a) | (a) | (Restated) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the three months ended December 31, 2002 | Uranium | Conversion | Gold | Power | Subtotal | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 198,773 | $ | 50,292 | $ | 22,022 | $ | 35,595 | $ | 306,682 | ($35,595 | ) | $ | 271,087 | |||||||||||||||
Expenses
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Products and services sold
|
136,345 | 25,874 | 16,752 | 23,700 | 202,671 | (23,700 | ) | 178,971 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation, depletion and reclamation |
21,694 | 1,593 | 4,749 | 3,687 | 31,723 | (3,687 | ) | 28,036 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Exploration |
3,569 | | 3,024 | 6,593 | 6,593 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Research & development |
| 502 | | 502 | 502 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
Other |
| | 52 | 52 | (52 | ) | | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings from Bruce Power |
(8,156 | ) | (8,156 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-segmented expenses |
13,750 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings before income taxes |
37,165 | 22,323 | (2,503 | ) | 8,156 | 65,141 | | 51,391 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense |
27,715 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Minority interest |
(748 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings |
24,424 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred securities charges, net of tax |
2,301 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings attributable to common shares |
$ | 22,123 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(a) | Consistent with the presentation of financial information for internal management purposes, Camecos pro rata share of Bruce Powers financial results have been presented as a separate segment. In accordance with GAAP, this investment is accounted for by the equity method of accounting in these consolidated financial statements and the associated revenues and expenses are eliminated in the adjustments column. |
11
Cameco Corporation
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)
10. | Segmented Information (continued) |
(a) | (a) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the year ended December 31, 2003 | Uranium | Conversion | Gold | Power | Subtotal | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 570,353 | $ | 142,431 | $ | 114,162 | $ | 371,905 | $ | 1,198,851 | ($371,905 | ) | $ | 826,946 | |||||||||||||||
Expenses
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Products and services sold
|
394,647 | 91,991 | 52,185 | 228,172 | 766,995 | (228,172 | ) | 538,823 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation, depletion and reclamation |
92,090 | 10,893 | 21,506 | 34,602 | 159,091 | (34,602 | ) | 124,489 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Exploration |
13,257 | | 8,666 | | 21,923 | | 21,923 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Research & development |
| 1,717 | | | 1,717 | | 1,717 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other |
(429 | ) | | | 1,210 | 781 | (1,210 | ) | (429 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Earnings from Bruce Power |
(107,921 | ) | (107,921 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-segmented expenses |
51,748 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings before income taxes |
70,788 | 37,830 | 31,805 | 107,921 | 248,344 | | 196,596 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense (recovery) |
(15,994 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Minority interest |
(3,416 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings |
216,006 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred securities charges, net of tax |
9,030 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Convertible debenture charges, net of tax |
2,290 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings attributable to common shares |
$ | 204,686 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(a) | (a) | (Restated) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
For the year ended December 31, 2002 | Uranium | Conversion | Gold | Power | Subtotal | Adjustments | Total | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Revenue |
$ | 523,723 | $ | 137,422 | $ | 87,189 | $ | 137,835 | $ | 886,169 | ($137,835 | ) | $ | 748,334 | |||||||||||||||
Expenses
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Products and services sold
|
345,115 | 82,742 | 58,298 | 100,695 | 586,850 | (100,695 | ) | 486,155 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Depreciation, depletion and reclamation |
85,618 | 11,137 | 20,203 | 13,833 | 130,791 | (13,833 | ) | 116,958 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Exploration |
11,849 | | 9,683 | | 21,532 | | 21,532 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Research & development |
| 2,257 | | | 2,257 | | 2,257 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Other |
(205 | ) | | 1,811 | 7,538 | 9,144 | (7,538 | ) | 1,606 | ||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings from Bruce Power |
(15,769 | ) | (15,769 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
Gain on property interests |
(2,670 | ) | | | | (2,670 | ) | | (2,670 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
Non-segmented expenses |
39,008 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Earnings before income taxes |
84,016 | 41,286 | (2,806 | ) | 15,769 | 138,265 | | 99,257 | |||||||||||||||||||||
Income tax expense |
47,265 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Minority interest |
(871 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings |
52,863 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Preferred securities charges, net of tax |
9,340 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Net earnings attributable to common shares |
$ | 43,523 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
(a) | Consistent with the presentation of financial information for internal management purposes, Camecos pro rata share of Bruce Powers financial results have been presented as a separate segment. In accordance with GAAP, this investment is accounted for by the equity method of accounting in these consolidated financial statements and the associated revenues and expenses are eliminated in the adjustments column. |
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