The Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) share price is in focus today after the gold miner reported NPAT of $714 million, up 41% from last year, and declared a fully franked interim dividend of 25 cents per share.
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What did Northern Star Resources report?
- Revenue rose 19% to $3,414.3 million, fuelled by a 31% increase in gold prices.
- Statutory net profit after tax climbed 41% to $714.4 million (earnings per share: 50.0 cents).
- Underlying NPAT was $759.8 million, up 49% from last year.
- Underlying EBITDA increased 34% to $1,875.5 million.
- Cash earnings totalled $1,100 million, or 77.0 cents per share.
- Fully franked interim dividend: 25.0 cents per share, unchanged year-on-year.
What else do investors need to know?
Northern Star's underlying free cash flow was negative $320 million this half, impacted by a softer second quarter, prior-period tax payments of $275 million, and ongoing capital investment in major growth projects. Despite these outflows, the balance sheet remains strong, with $1,176 million in cash and bullion, and a net cash position of $293 million.
Operating cash flow fell 18% to $1,031.2 million, reflecting higher mining costs, increased royalties, and inflationary pressures. The company recognised a non-cash impairment charge of $77.6 million relating to its exploration portfolio.
What did Northern Star Resources management say?
Managing Director & CEO Stuart Tonkin said:
This first half result demonstrates the resilience and growing returns we are embedding in our business, which allowed the Board to declare a 25cps interim dividend despite a soft operating performance. Our balance sheet remains in a net cash position notwithstanding the significant investments we are making to transform Northern Star into a lowest-half global cost producer. We look forward to safely commissioning the KCGM Mill Expansion on schedule in early FY27, positioning the business for a significant uplift in cash generation and ROCE. This enhanced cash flow outlook strengthens our ability to deliver attractive returns on investment, supports capital management, and allows us to continue to advance the Hemi Development Project in a disciplined manner.
What's next for Northern Star Resources?
The company is continuing to invest in growth, with major projects like the KCGM Mill Expansion and Hemi Development Project on track. These developments are expected to strengthen returns and lift cash generation into the future.
Despite revising FY26 production and cost guidance in January, Northern Star remains focused on operational excellence and growth. The company reaffirmed its goals of improving production, reducing unit costs, and delivering long-term value for shareholders.
Northern Star Resources share price snapshot
Over the past 12 months, Northern Star Resources shares have risen 54%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.
