Emerald Resources NL (ASX: EMR) shares are starting the week in the red.
The ASX 200 gold share is down over 5% to $4.83 at the time of writing.
This is despite the gold price hitting a record high, which is driving the S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Gold index 1.2% higher today.
Why is this ASX 200 gold share underperforming?
Investors have been selling the gold miner's shares today after it released a production update for the three months ended 30 September.
According to the release, Okvau Gold Mine gold production for the September quarter is expected to be approximately 22,000 ounces.
Management notes that this is below guidance due to heavy rainfall during September which restricted access to the high grade ore scheduled to be mined and milled at month end. It advised that this inclement weather included a significant 24-hour rainfall event of 114mm which impacted on pit dewatering.
In addition, the ASX 200 gold share's all-in sustaining cost (AISC) for the September quarter is expected to be ~US$1,150 per ounce.
What about FY 2026?
Despite this poor start to FY 2026, management remains positive on its outlook for the full year.
So much so, the ASX 200 gold share has reaffirmed its guidance for FY 2026. It continues to expect production in the range of 105,000 ounces to 120,000 ounces with an AISC in line with life of mine US$966 per ounce. Though, this is expected to be updated with the Okvau underground expansion in due course. That expansion is expected to come online during calendar year 2026.
Beyond this, management advised that it remains fully funded to achieve its stated aim of becoming a multi-mine +300,000 ounces per annum gold producer.
This will be underpinned by the Okvau Gold Mine underground expansion, the development of a second standalone Cambodian operation at the Memot Gold Project in 2026, and the development of Emerald's first Australian operation at the Dingo Range Gold Project in 2026.
Should you invest?
The only major broker that covers this ASX 200 gold share is Ord Minnett. Unfortunately, its analysts believe its shares are fully valued at current levels.
And while it has yet to respond to today's update, the broker has a lighten rating and $4.30 price target on its shares at present.
Based on its current share price, this implies potential downside of approximately 11% for investors over the next 12 months. As a result, there may be better options out there for investors looking for exposure to the gold sector.
