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Barrick sells Tongon mine for up to $305 Million

Barrick Mining announced on Monday that it would sell its interest in the Tongon Gold Mine and certain assets in Ivory Coast, to Atlantic Group, for up to $305 million. The Canadian miner is looking to improve its balance sheet.

The shares of Barrick rose by 3% on the Toronto Stock Exchange in morning trading.

Barrick has been pursuing a strategy to monetize assets that are not core in markets where operational costs are increasing. This is a move it made after its merger with Africa's Randgold Resources.

Instead, the company is focusing on high-margin assets with a long-term life, and a growing emphasis on copper, as well as strategic operations in Africa, and the Middle East.

Gold prices are hovering around $3,900 per ounce. This is due to the fact that investors have been seeking safe havens in light of economic uncertainty and further Federal Reserve rate reductions.

Barrick said that the successful exploration has allowed Barrick to extend the life of Tongon beyond its original 2020 deadline.

Barrick said that the deal included a $192 million cash payment, which covered a $23million shareholder loan repayment due within six months after closing. The proceeds will help Barrick improve its balance sheet.

The transaction should be completed by the end of 2025.

(source: Reuters)