A G N I C O - E A G L E
ANNUAL REPORT 2002
5 TRUTHS
OUR FRAMEWORK FOR SUCCESS
P R O F I L E
O P E R A T I O N S
AGNICO-EAGLE MINES LIMITED IS A LEADING INTERMEDIATE-SIZED GOLD PRODUCER
CENTERED IN ONE OF FRIENDLIEST AND POLITICALLY RISK-FREE AREAS OF THE WORLD:
QUEBEC.
THE COMPANY DOES NOT HEDGE GOLD PRODUCTION - AND NEVER HAS IN ITS 30-YEAR
HISTORY. OUR SHAREHOLDERS BENEFIT FROM PRICE INCREASES AND WE INSURE AGAINST THE
DOWNSIDE RISK WITH GROWTH AND LOW-COST PRODUCTION.
WE PRODUCED 260,000 OUNCES OF GOLD IN 2002 AND ARE ON TRACK TO INCREASE
THAT IN 2003 AND 2004, FOLLOWING OUR LARONDE MINE'S EXPANSION.
WITH RESERVES AND RESOURCES TOTALING 5.1 MILLION OUNCES AND ADDITIONAL
INFERRED RESOURCES OF 5.2 MILLION OUNCES - ALL IN LARONDE'S BACKYARD IN
QUEBEC - WE HAVE PLENTY OF OPPORTUNITIES TO CONTINUE THIS GROWTH.
AGNICO-EAGLE'S SHARES TRADE VERY ACTIVELY ON THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE
(SYMBOL AGE). OUR SHARES ARE HELD 60% BY INDIVIDUALS AND 40% INSTITUTIONS, AND
MOSTLY IN NORTH AMERICA.
[GRAPHIC] [GRAPHIC] [GRAPHIC]
C O N T E N T S
HIGHLIGHTS 1
LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS 1
OPERATIONS 9
RESERVES AND RESOURCES 13
EXPLORATION 18
OUR TEAM 22
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION
AND CONSOLIDATED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 25
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS 59
CORPORATE INFORMATION 60
F R O N T C O V E R
A MINER'S LUNCH PAIL AWAITS THE NEXT SHIFT AT THE LARONDE MINE ON THE
PROLIFIC CADILLAC-BOUSQUET GOLD BELT IN QUEBEC. ANOTHER GOLD DEPOSIT HAS JUST
BEEN DISCOVERED -LAPA - ON AGNICO'S PROPERTY, WHICH SPANS NEARLY 20 MILES OF
THE BELT.
L E T T E R T O S H A R E H O L D E R S
FELLOW SHAREHOLDERS,
This is an exciting time for Agnico-Eagle. We are ideally positioned to benefit
from our increasing gold production in mining-friendly northwestern
Quebec, thanks to the growth of our mining operations.
H I G H L I G H T S F O R 2 0 0 2
o INCREASED GOLD PRODUCTION 11%
o EXPANDED TONNAGE THROUGHPUT 40%
o $150 MILLION CASH
o DISCOVERED HIGH-GRADE LAPA GOLD DEPOSIT
o INCREASED RESERVES AND RESOURCES 23%
There are several reasons for optimism. Our LaRonde mine is now the
largest gold deposit in Canada with excellent exploration potential to grow even
further; our cost of producing gold is expected to continue to decrease; and we
have an unparalleled land position around the mine and along the
Cadillac-Bousquet gold belt.
In 2002, we completed an expansion of LaRonde that produced record
amounts of gold and gold reserves. As a result of this and better gold
prices, the Company enjoyed significantly improved net earnings of $4 million
(compared to a loss of $5 million in 2001) and an $8 million improvement in
cash flow.
While we have had our share of teething problems with this 40%
expansion even into 2003,today Agnico-Eagle is perfectly positioned to profit
from what we expect to be higher gold prices in a long-term bull market. As the
US dollar continues to drift lower and equity markets remain volatile, investors
- - and even central bankers - are looking for safety and that search
PAGE (1)
WHILE OUR PEERS EMPHASIZE QUALITY AND GROWTH,
WE ALSO DELIVER A THIRD COMPONENT:
THE STABILITY OF MINING-FRIENDLY QUEBEC.
has led them away from the risks of paper currency into the security of gold and
gold stocks. We expect that this trend will not only continue but also gain
momentum in the coming years. As this demand for gold and gold stocks
rises, Agnico-Eagle stands to be a major beneficiary.
We are one of the few mining companies that never sold our gold forward
so we've never capped the price we receive for it. Instead, our insurance
against low prices is growth and low-cost production so we can generate earnings
and cash flow even when gold is in a down cycle.
After years of developing the people and infrastructure at LaRonde,
all the necessary tools are in place for Agnico-Eagle to produce yet more
gold. In the short term, our efforts will concentrate on getting the recent
expansion working more efficiently and this will continue our trend of record
production through 2003 and 2004. However, LaRonde represents only one
chapter of the Agnico-Eagle story. With our eyes firmly focused on the
future, we are aggressively moving forward on two very promising properties -
Lapa and Goldex. These regional opportunities are close to LaRonde, making
them perfectly suited to capitalize on both the expertise of the LaRonde team
and the mine's large processing capacity. Moreover, these projects would make
the most effective use of the Company's large pool of available tax
deductions.
PAGE (2)
WE HAVE SET OUT TO BUILD A COMPANY THAT FOCUSES ON QUALITY, GROWTH AND A STRONG
FINANCIAL POSITION, WHILE RETAINING FULL LEVERAGE TO GOLD PRICES. THROUGH HARD
WORK AND THAT FOCUSED STRATEGY, THESE GOALS ARE BEING REALIZED.
Our regional growth strategy is relatively low risk,using existing
resources in our own stable backyard. Part of this low risk is confirmed by the
Fraser Institute in a survey published in December, which identified Quebec as
one of the two most attractive areas in the world for mining, based on mineral
potential and acceptance of the industry.
This strategic regional focus gives Agnico-Eagle tremendous
potential to realize our objective of becoming the predominant mid-sized gold
company. Our plan envisions multiple mines within striking distance of
LaRonde, with growing reserves and increasing production in one area of the
world that welcomes responsible mining. While our peers emphasize quality and
growth, we also deliver a third component: the stability of mining-friendly
Quebec.
While regional expansion represents the core of our strategy, we
persist in seeking opportunities for growth elsewhere. This search for new
opportunities is restricted to politically stable regions and is focused on
situations where our expertise can add value. With our proven exploration, mine
building and operating expertise, we are ideally situated to discover and run
other properties.
The theme for this year's annual report explains in detail how all
the major pieces of our strategy are falling into place. These five basic
truths form the framework for our success. They explain how we've developed a
competitive
PAGE (3)
advantage in the industry and why Agnico-Eagle is right on target to build
further value:
1.UNHEDGED
We have never sold gold forward or capped its price, so we always benefit when
the price rises.
2.WORLD CLASS OREBODY
The LaRonde Mine is a proven gold producer with a long-life gold reserve.
3.GROWTH
Our dominant position on the Cadillac-Bousquet gold belt and our aggressive
exploration program in the region provide strong potential for growth.
4.EXPERIENCE
Over the past 30 years, we've built a highly efficient team of mining experts
whose skills enable us to transform opportunity into profit.
5.STRONG BALANCE SHEET
Our financial position has never been stronger. With zero net debt, which
includes more than $150 million in cash at the end of 2002, we're primed for
growth.
PAGE (4)
Not only are we positioned to continue our record of 23 consecutive annual
dividends, we hope to increase dividends as our assets grow.
We firmly believe that the price of gold will rise in the long term,
but it's the effectiveness of our regional strategy creating growth that will
drive our success, not just the gold price.
We have set out to build a company that focuses on quality, growth
and a strong financial position, while retaining full leverage to gold
prices. Through hard work and that focused strategy, these goals are being
realized.
It is the hard work of our teams that enable us to maximize the
potential of our assets and realize our goals. These people with their strong
mine building and operating skills, as well as their exploration expertise
allow us to develop new opportunities.
Now all the signs point to an even better future. With rising
production, lower costs and exciting new growth potential, Agnico-Eagle is
poised for greater profitability.
[PHOTO] /s/ SEAN BOYD
--------------------------------------
Sean Boyd
President and Chief Executive Officer
PAGE (5)
THE FIVE TRUTHS
1. [PHOTO]
PAGE (6)
UNHEDGED
NO COMPROMISE
WE DO NOT LIMIT GOLD'S UPSIDE
VALUE BY SELLING IT FORWARD.
INSTEAD, WE HEDGE THE DOWNSIDE
RISK WITH GROWTH AND LOW COSTS.
PAGE (7)
[PHOTO]
With LaRonde at the center of our regional strategy, the mill has the capacity
to process additional ore and concentrate feed.
O P E R A T I O N S
Production at our LaRonde Mine in Quebec
increased 190% in four years and more growth
is planned for 2003 and 2004.
o 40% CAPACITY INCREASE TO 7,000 TONS PER DAY IN OCTOBER
o RECORD GOLD PRODUCTION OF 260,000 OUNCES
o RECORD THROUGHPUT OF 2 MILLION TONS
The year 2002 saw record gold production of 260,000 ounces as our expanded
operation moved toward being an efficient low-cost enterprise in what we can now
proudly identify as the largest gold deposit in Canada. Capacity in the mill and
mine were increased by 40% to 7,000 tons per day in October.
Shortly, we expect to complete the expansion's underground development and
infrastructure above the 215 Level, 2,150 m or 7,050 feet below surface. Then we
will have access to more higher-grade gold on the mine's lower levels. More tons
in 2003 and 2004 mean that we will continue our trend of record breaking gold
production.
Our task is now to maximize the expansion in tandem with the search for new
gold resources within striking distance of LaRonde. We have two excellent
prospects: Lapa, 7 miles away, and Goldex, 28 miles beyond.
There were disappointments as well as records in 2002.Production and
costs did not meet our expectations because of access to fewer gold/copper
mining blocks at depth than we expected. A mechanical failure and excessive
summer heat affecting productivity in the deeper - and therefore hotter - levels
caused delays in developing high-grade production areas. Development delays also
caused us to miss our original 2003 targets when in March we did not quickly
recover from a rock fall in one of the high-grade stoping areas. Normally,
other stopes would have been ready for immediate mining while the affected area
was being stabilized.
Despite these setbacks, significant operational improvements were realized
in 2002. Our operating experience to date has demonstrated that in the critical
areas of ore grade, metallurgical recoveries, and processing and hoisting
capacity, we have met or exceeded all our expectations.
R E G I O N A L D E V E L O P M E N T S T R AT E G Y
Though LaRonde is at the heart of our current and future plans, it represents
only one part of Agnico-Eagle's regional strategy. As we near the end of the
expansion phase, we are looking at the operating team and LaRonde's processing
facilities being at the center of a regional development plan.
We are currently analyzing the drill data from our Lapa property, and are
examining the feasibility of developing the Goldex project. We are encouraged
about the prospects for these two properties. Lapa was discovered and achieved
significant exploration success in 2002. Both will benefit from the synergies
created by this complementary multi-site mining operation, making efficient use
of our investment at LaRonde.
PAGE (9)
THE FIVE TRUTHS
2. [PHOTO]
PAGE (10)
A LONG-LIFE
OREBODY
AND STILL GROWING
LARONDE IS THE LARGEST GOLD DEPOSIT
TODAY IN CANADA AND HAS ALREADY BEEN
IN PRODUCTION 15 YEARS.
PAGE (11)
[PHOTO]
Newly converted reserves are being developed for mining.
Development has the highest priority, with crews now gaining footage not
achieved in 2002.
G O L D R E S E R V E S A N D R E S O U R C E S
Drilling at LaRonde increased
gold reserves by 23%.
o DRILLING AT LARONDE CONVERTED 1.0 MILLION OUNCES TO RESERVES
o CONFIRMED 1.0 MILLION OUNCES OF INDICATED RESOURCES AND 0.4 MILLION OUNCES
OF INFERRED RESOURCES AT GOLDEX
o ESTABLISHED 0.8 MILLION OUNCES OF INFERRED RESOURCES AT LAPA
The year 2002 proved to be a record year for LaRonde in another respect. The
Company's drilling program successfully converted one million ounces of
resources to reserves, pushing our current reserve position to an all-time high
of 4.0 million ounces.That represents a 23% increase over the 3.3 million ounces
recorded in 2001. When added to the inferred resources of 4.1 million ounces, it
confirms LaRonde as the largest gold deposit in Canada and it has considerable
potential for growth.
With the improving access to LaRonde's deeper mineralized zones and our
aggressive underground exploration efforts, we are getting closer to discovering
just how big the deposit really is.
We know there's more gold to be discovered, the ore limits have not
been found in several directions and there may be more zones waiting to be
discovered. Our exploration focus is currently on deep exploration drilling in
the main deposit that we call Zone 20 North. It is wide open below the 215
Level, with known thicker mineralization and strong indications of better grades
of gold. Recent drilling has defined the eastern limit of the zone, however it
remains open for further expansion to the west and at depth. In 2003, we
continue to drill in both directions.
E V E N D E E P E R AT L A R O N D E
The drill data gathered from the 215 Level will be extremely important to assess
our deep mining options below that level, so we have accelerated the extension
of the drift by adding more development crews.
The resources below the bottom of the current shaft at 7,400 feet open
up several options to expand the deep development of the mine and several
scenarios are being evaluated. Those include rehabilitating shaft No.1 which
is not currently being used,sinking a new shaft to a depth of 10,000 feet,
and a variety of shaft/ramp combinations. A scoping study of the deep deposit
is underway and we expect to outline the results at our annual general
meeting in June.
In 1991, we started to explore LaRonde from the Level 86 exploration drift
and from that starting point a dozen years ago, we have successfully maintained
our average cost of finding each new ounce of gold at less than $3.
PAGE (13)
L A R O N D E M A J O R O R E Z O N E S
[PHOTO]
L A R O N D E M I N E 2 0 0 2 M I N E R A L R E S E R V E S
A N D R E S O U R C E S
Gold Silver Copper Zinc Tons Tonnes Gold
------------------ ---------------
Category (oz./ton) (g/tonne) (oz./ton) (g/tonne)(%) (%) (000s) (000s) (000s oz.)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proven reserves 0.08 2.7 2.85 97.6 0.39 4.95 7,972 7,232 624
Probable reserves 0.10 3.5 1.84 63.2 0.37 2.93 33,720 30,591 3,398
Indicated resources 0.11 3.9 0.43 14.9 0.17 0.55 648 588 75
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total reserves and
indicated resources 0.10 3.3 2.01 68.9 0.37 3.27 42,340 38,411 4,097
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total inferred resources 0.17 5.9 0.38 13.0 0.33 0.08 23,030 20,893 3,978
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Long term assumptions used in these estimates are: gold, $300/oz.; silver
$5.00/oz.; zinc $0.50/lb.; and a US/Canadian dollar exchange rate of C$1.50.
Further notes to the Reserves and Resources tables can be found on page 58.
PAGE (14)
G O L D E X D E P O S I T G O L D E X P R O P E R T Y R E S O U R C E S
[GRAPHIC] Gold Tons Ounces
(oz/t) (000s) (000s)
---------------------------
Indicated resources 0.073 13,700 1,000
Inferred resources 0.076 5,600 420
---------------------------
L A P A D E P O S I T L A P A P R O P E R T Y R E S O U R C E S
[GRAPHIC] Gold Tons Ounces
(oz/t) (000s) (000s)
---------------------------
Inferred resources 0.25 3,271 816
---------------------------
INFERRED RESOURCES
2 0 0 2 G L O B A L G O L D R E S E R V E S A N D R E S O U R C E S
LaRonde Lapa Goldex Ellison Total
(000s) (000s) (000s) (000s) (000s)
----------------------------------------------------------
Total gold reserves and indicated resources 4,097 - 997 41 5,135
----------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------
Total gold inferred resources 3,978 816 423 106 5,323
----------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------
1 Long term assumptions used in these estimates are: gold, $300/oz.; silver
$5.00/oz.; zinc $0.50/lb.; and a US/Canadian dollar exchange rate of C$1.50.
Further notes to the Reserves and Resources tables can be found on page 58.
PAGE (15)
T H E F I V E T R U T H S
3. [PHOTO]
Drill core from Lapa awaits splitting and assaying. Our widest intercept
returned 99 feet at 0.26 ounces of gold per ton, 3,000 feet below surface.
GROWTH
A REGIONAL EMPHASIS
LARONDE IS LOCATED ON QUEBEC'S PROLIFIC
CADILLAC-BOUSQUET GOLD BELT WHERE A HIGH-GRADE
DEPOSIT - LAPA - HAS JUST BEEN DISCOVERED. WE
CONTROL A 20-MILE STRETCH OF PROPERTY ON THE BELT
AND ARE ACTIVELY EXPLORING AND ACQUIRING
ADDITIONAL PROPERTIES IN THE REGION.
PAGE (17)
E X P L O R A T I O N
The old saying that the best place to find
a mine is in the shadow of a headframe is
proving correct with Lapa and Goldex.
SIGNIFICANT HIGH-GRADE GOLD DISCOVERY AT LAPA
o INFERRED RESOURCES 816,000 OUNCES
o DEPOSIT OPEN IN SEVERAL DIRECTIONS
o EXCITING RESULTS FROM DEEP DRILL HOLE
PREVIOUS EXPLORATION SUCCESS AT GOLDEX
o POTENTIAL REGIONAL SYNERGIES AND DOUBLING THROUGHPUT
o DEPOSIT OPEN IN A NUMBER OF AREAS
In the rocky terrain that lies between the northwestern Quebec towns of Val d'Or
and Rouyn, Agnico-Eagle has enjoyed 20 fruitful years of mineral exploration and
discovery on the Cadillac-Bousquet gold belt. Along the nearly 20 miles of our
dominant land position in this gold-rich region, we have enjoyed record gold
production and the promise of the future looks even brighter.
We believe in the old mining expression that the best place to find a mine
is in the shadow of an existing headframe (there are three headframes on the
LaRonde property alone and dozens along the belt), so that's where we
started. Over the past years we have been slowly acquiring properties in the
area. In 2002, Agnico-Eagle's position became even larger, and we continue the
process in 2003.
Our exploration efforts in 2002 uncovered a new gold deposit on an
adjacent property we acquired that year:Lapa. And we revisited an old
exploration property we had moved away from, this time thinking big rather
than small, and thinking regional synergies. This is Goldex. Both are within
a few miles of LaRonde, which is poised to become the heart of our regional
development strategy.
L A P A, A 2 0 0 2 D I S C O V E R Y
Only seven miles east of LaRonde, we started to drill at our Lapa property in
November 2002 and that drilling paid off. The drilling identified a whole new
high-grade contact zone that extends the previously identified mineralization
and established an inferred resource of 816,000 ounces after only four months
drilling.
Sixteen holes have been drilled in the Lapa Contact Zone and 11 of them
intersected significant grades, partly defining the mineralized zone. That
drilling not only confirmed the high gold concentration, but also that the
Contact Zone is open at depth and to the east.
Most of the mineralized drill holes contained visible gold and averaged
about 15 feet width grading an average of about 0.25 oz/ton. The excitement
is in the thickest intercept drilled to date, 3,000 feet below surface, a
99-foot width of mineralization at an average grade of 0.26 oz/ton.
Recent drilling has focused on extending the Contact Zone. To date, the
zone has been traced over a length of 1,600 feet and to a vertical depth of
3,800 feet, and there are another 1.6 miles on surface of favorable ground
still waiting to be explored.
PAGE (18)
The next $2.5 million phase of drilling began in March 2003 and will
continue for the remainder of the year, currently with five drills. The
program's key objectives are:
o Infill drilling on 150-foot centers to prove up resources
o Deep drilling to test the down-dip extension of the deposit
o Step-out drilling to test the eastern extent of the Contact Zone
o Larger-core drilling to supply material for metallurgical testing.
In a short time, Lapa has become an integral part of Agnico-Eagle's regional
development and production strategy. We are aggressively working to find out the
size of the deposit. It is an exciting project with the potential to add
significant production and value.
U P D A T E D F E A S I B I L I T Y S T U D Y
U N D E R W A Y A T G O L D E X
Previous drilling and underground exploration at the Goldex project, 35 miles
east of LaRonde on the outskirts of Val d'Or, established a gold deposit of 1.0
million ounces of indicated and 400,000 ounces of inferred resources. The
mineralization is open in several areas. Agnico-Eagle owns 100% of this property
and we're extremely encouraged by its prospects.
In 1996, an underground bulk sample confirmed the accuracy of the gold
grade calculated from exploration drilling and it established the LaRonde
mill's capability to process the ore. At the time, the property was
marginally economic. Now we are re-evaluating the deposit to capitalize on
new regional advantages that did not exist seven years ago and we are
updating the feasibility study.
The 1996 assessment was based on a 5,000-ton-per-day mine and a stand-alone
operation without the benefit of LaRonde's expanded infrastructure. Our updated
study will be based on bulk mining at a projected 10,000-ton-per-day rate and
will take into account the new synergies that come into play with LaRonde.
Goldex could also benefit from surplus equipment available at LaRonde.
None of these options was available during the previous feasibility study in
1996.
Adding size to synergies, Goldex now will be more cost effective, with
potentially lower capital, labor and ongoing development costs than previously
estimated.
With potential expansion on the horizon at Lapa and Goldex, along with the
deep development project at LaRonde, we are determined to make the best use of
our two strongest assets: our highly skilled people and our efficient
infrastructure, both of which are already in place, in northwestern Quebec's
valley of gold.
A G N I C O - E A G L E ' S L A N D P O S I T I O N
O N T H E C A D I L L A C - B O U S Q U E T B E L T
[PHOTO]
PAGE (19)
THE FIVE TRUTHS
4. [PHOTO]
These are some members of the LaRonde team.
In LaRonde's 15-year life the average service is an exceptionally high 12 years.
EXPERIENCE
COMES WITH AGE
WE HAVE MINED FOR 30 YEARS,
INCLUDING 15 YEARS AT LARONDE -
AND PEOPLE STAY. OUR TRACK RECORD IS
ONE THAT FEW COMPANIES CAN MATCH.
PAGE (21)
O U R T E A M
We operate as a partnership, a partnership
that is based on mutual respect.
Agnico-Eagle's corporate culture is based on the principle that every person has
the right to be treated with dignity and respect. We operate as a partnership, a
partnership that is based on mutual respect, commitment and dedication to
excellence. The people of Agnico-Eagle have responded with unparalleled loyalty
and performance. Thanks to their ideas and efforts, efficiency has improved,
gold production has progressively increased and safety is one of our proudest
records.
The 500 experienced and highly skilled people at the LaRonde mine are the
foundation for Agnico-Eagle's success. That applies equally to the miner
extracting ore thousands of feet underground and to the administrator
coordinating shipping schedules on surface. The success of our approach is
reflected in the fact that we are an industry leader in recruiting and retaining
talented people.
Many people have been with us since LaRonde commenced production 15 years
ago and many from before that. The management team at LaRonde has been with
Agnico-Eagle an average of ten years and the workforce as a whole, twelve
years. This longevity is no accident. They have displayed their loyalty to the
Company and the Company has responded in kind.
We are dedicated to the highest standards of health and safety at our
mine site and have been rated as one of the safest of the many mines in Quebec
for the last ten years running. We take great pride in our proactive safety
program that prepares people for any eventuality and operates 24 hours a day, 7
days a week. The 24 volunteers who make up our first-rate mine rescue team
embody the idea that our people are always watching out for each other - and for
people in other mines, too. The team has also made us proud by finishing in the
top five at the annual Quebec mine rescue competition in the last five years.
Agnico-Eagle's commitment to the well being of the people at LaRonde
extends to four full-time health and safety workers, our full-time nurse and the
financial support we give to the full-service hospital in the town of Rouyn, a
few miles away.
We encourage and support the people at LaRonde by providing quality
learning and development opportunities that will enable them to be the best in
all areas of their work. Their expertise in sound mining practices and their
knowledge of the industry's state-of-the-art equipment and processes did not
happen by accident. Agnico-Eagle invests more than C$500,000 each year in
on-site training programs that are administered by three full-time training
staff.
We believe in the strength of the family unit,so as an added benefit we
offer C$1,000 scholarships for sons and daughters who enter post secondary
education. During LaRonde's operating history, over 500 of our employees'
children have obtained post secondary diplomas or degrees. We also offer summer
jobs at the mine for qualified students to provide further educational
assistance.
PAGE (22)
[PHOTO]
LaRonde's highly skilled people are the foundation for our success.
Our incentive programs established the idea that when the Company wins, we
all win. We reward excellence with regular productivity bonuses in certain areas
and everyone is invited to sign up for our Company subsidized stock purchase
plan. Approximately 9 of every 10 employees are members of the plan,
demonstrating that they are confident about the Company's future.
These programs underscore the partnership that drives the success of
Agnico-Eagle. We value the people who work with us. This partnership is a major
reason why LaRonde is the progressive and efficient operation that it is today.
E N V I R O N M E N TA L A C C O U N T A B I L I T Y
Caring for the environment is a cornerstone of being a good corporate citizen.
We subscribe to the principle of sustainable development in mining, and while
mining will clearly have an effect on its immediate surroundings, we focus on
limiting negative impacts while enhancing positive ones.
The mineral-rich Cadillac-Bousquet gold belt has shared its treasures with
us and it is our responsibility to look after its ecosystem - we live here, too.
We conduct all mining operations using environmental best practices and meet or
exceed every environmental regulation that affects our exploration, mining and
milling operations.
We continually monitor environmental impact at every stage of our
processes. Our dedicated environmental department at the LaRonde mine site is
supported by a vice president responsible solely for the environment. Our
priorities are to continually improve environmental conditions and processes at
LaRonde and to proactively rehabilitate inactive properties we have subsequently
acquired.
As part of our commitment to the environment Agnico-Eagle has provided a
C$150,000 grant to the area's top-ranked university, UNIVERSITE DU QUEBEC EN
ABITIBI-TEMISCAMINGUE to set up a chair in environmental studies.
Our commitment goes beyond the areas where we work. Agnico-Eagle is a
major contributor to mining education by supporting industry-wide
initiatives. For example, we are a founding partner of E3 - Environmental
Education in Exploration -providing tools for the application of exploration
best practices worldwide.
G I V I N G B A C K T O O U R C O M M U N I T Y
We are one of the largest employers in the area where LaRonde sits, midway
between the towns of Rouyn to the west and Val d'Or to the east. This is our
home and we are committed to making it the best community it can be by
supporting local initiatives and organizations that build the health, strength
and cultural diversity of the area.
Our community commitments are as varied as the residents themselves,
including funding to the hospitals in Rouyn, Amos and Val d'Or, as well as
grants for the Val d'Or major junior-league hockey team, the FOREURS, and
Rouyn's hockey team, the HUSKIES.
More than simply good neighbors, Agnico-Eagle is an active member in all
the local chambers of commerce in the Abitibi region, and we are a regular
contributor to several local charities. Whether it is helping the local
hospital or helping the local hockey team, we want to be part of the
solution. We are proud to contribute to the local economy as a major
employer, and as you can see that is only part of the story.
What we are truly grateful for is the opportunity to help the people at
LaRonde build the social, cultural and educational framework that makes our
community unique.
PAGE (23)
5. ROCK-HARD
STRENGTH
INCLUDES A STRONG
BALANCE SHEET
F I N A N C I A L C O N T E N T
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS 25
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 39
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 43
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 47
PAGE (24)
M A N A G E M E N T'S D I S C U S S I O N A N D
A N A L Y S I S O F O P E R A T I O N S
A N D F I N A N C I A L C O N D I T I O N
F O R W A R D - L O O K I N G S T A T E M E N T S
This annual report contains certain "forward-looking statements" (within the
meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995)
that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. There can be no assurance that
such statements will prove to be accurate; actual results and future events
could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Risks and
uncertainties are disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" in the Company's
Annual Information Form filed with Canadian securities regulators and in Form
20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the
accompanying consolidated financial statements. All figures presented are in US
dollars unless otherwise noted.
C H A N G E T O U S G A A P
Effective January 1, 2002, the Company changed its primary basis of financial
reporting to United States generally accepted accounting principles ("US GAAP")
due to its substantial US shareholder base and to maintain comparability with
other gold mining companies. Financial statements under Canadian generally
accepted accounting principles will continue to be prepared for statutory
reporting purposes.
R E S U L T S O F O P E R A T I O N S
The year ended December 31, 2002 saw Agnico-Eagle achieve a number of
significant milestones:
o RECORD ANNUAL GOLD PRODUCTION of 260,183 ounces representing an 11% increase
over 2001 and a 50% increase over 2000.
o IMPROVED OPERATING PERFORMANCE with the 40% capacity expansion of the mine and
mill to 7,000 tons of ore treated per day in the fourth quarter.
o IMPROVED FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE as record gold production and full leverage to
an improved gold price resulted in net income of $0.06 per share.
o BEST FINANCIAL POSITION IN COMPANY HISTORY with available cash resources of
nearly $253 million at the end of 2002 with no "net debt" as discussed below
under "Liquidity and Capital Resources."
For the year ended December 31, 2002, net income was $4.0 million, or $0.06
per share. This represents a significant improvement from a loss of $5.7
million, or $0.09 per share in 2001, and a loss of $6.9 million, or $0.12 per
share, in 2000. The table below summarizes the major variances which
contributed to the overall increase in net income in 2002, as compared to
2001, and 2001, as compared to 2000.
NET INCOME VARIANCE ANALYSIS
2002 vs. 2001 2001 vs. 2000
----------------------------------
Net Loss,Years Ended December 31,2001 and 2000 $ (5,718) $ (6,868)
Increase in gold production 6,913 16,960
Increase (decrease) in gold price 10,147 (1,174)
Change in zinc production and zinc price (13,770) 24,156
Change in copper production and copper price 3,627 (1,530)
Change in silver production and silver price 1,335 5,565
Net decrease (increase) in operating
expenses,exploration and taxes 1,489 (42,827)
----------------------------------
Net Income (Loss),Year Ended
December 31,2002 and 2001 $ 4,023 $ (5,718)
----------------------------------
----------------------------------
PAGE (25)
M A N A G E M E N T ' S D I S C U S S I O N A N D A N A L Y S I S O F
O P E R A T I O N S A N D F I N A N C I A L C O N D I T I O N
In 2002, record production and a significant improvement in net income were
achieved in spite of some expansion-related start-up difficulties. Despite
record production, the Company missed its 2002 production budget of 340,000
ounces due primarily to richer grade, lower level stopes not being sufficiently
developed for mining as planned. Excessive summer heat, a SAG mill failure in
July delaying backfill placement, and delays in ventilation installation at
depth resulted in slower than anticipated stope development limiting LaRonde's
ability to mine gold/copper stopes on the lower mining levels. Attempts to
accelerate development to make up lost progress resulted in congestion on the
lower mining levels as construction and development conflicted with production.
To maintain mill throughput, more lower-grade, zinc-rich ore was mined from the
upper mining levels. As a result, zinc production was 26% higher than
anticipated.
Increased El Coco royalties and a weaker zinc price contributed to
increased total cash operating costs to produce an ounce of gold of $182 for
2002,a 17% increase from $155 in the previous year but a 3% improvement over
$188 in 2000.
Cash flow from operations, before non-cash working capital changes,
increased 64% to $20.4 million in 2002 from $12.4 million in 2001 and
increased 212% from $6.5 million in 2000. This improvement in 2002 reflects
increased gold production and the realization of higher gold prices resulting
from the Company's long-term commitment to remain unhedged. In 2002, the
Company realized an average price of $312 per ounce of gold representing
increases of 14% and 12% over $273 realized in 2001 and $278 realized in 2000.
During 2002, the Company strengthened its liquidity. At December 31,
2002, the Company had available cash resources of nearly $253 million with no
net debt. Available cash resources is comprised of $153 million in cash and $100
million of undrawn credit lines. The Company's strengthened liquidity represents
an increase of 118% from $116 million in 2001, and a five-fold increase from $46
million in 2000. Improved liquidity is attributable to the Company's
strengthening operating cash flow as well as the refinancing of its 2004
convertible notes in February 2002 and a unit offering of common shares and
warrants in November 2002. In 2002, the Company made $64.8 million of capital
investments comprised primarily of the expansion at LaRonde. In 2001 and 2000,
$36.3 million and $68.4 million respectively were invested in the expansion.
REVENUES FROM MINING OPERATIONS
The Company derives its revenue from the sale of precious metals (gold and
silver), zinc and copper net of smelting, refining and other marketing charges.
Precious-metal sales accounted for approximately 87% of revenues in 2002, up
from 78% in 2001 and 83% in 2000. For the year ended December 31, 2002, revenues
from mining operations increased 15% over 2001 and 61% over 2000.The majority of
this increase was attributable to record gold production of 260,183 ounces and
higher realized gold prices. Lower zinc production and prices had a negative
impact on revenues but were more than offset by the increases in gold production
and price.
In the fourth quarter of 2002, LaRonde achieved its expanded rate of 7,000
tons of ore per day and produced a quarterly record 75,235 ounces of gold as the
mill processed a record 540,000 tons of ore. In the fourth quarter of 2002, the
mill reached peak rates of 8,000 tons of ore per day and averaged 5,846 tons of
ore per day. Average daily throughput for the fourth quarter was affected by
reduced ore availability due to the stope development difficulties discussed
above, and a planned six-day expansion related shutdown.
2003 OUTLOOK: The Company is addressing the heat-related development issues
mentioned above by completing the installation of additional cooling systems on
the lower mining levels and investigating a larger
PAGE (26)
cooling plant on surface. Furthermore, the Level 219 crushing plant and conveyor
system (2,190 meters or 7,200 feet below surface) is expected to be completed in
the second quarter of 2003 and is expected to reduce congestion and further
improve ore flow on the lower levels. These improvements are expected to allow
more efficient access to the higher-grade gold ore on the lower mining levels.
Improved ore-flow coupled with a full year of operations at the expanded 7,000
ton per day rate is anticipated to result in increased gold production in 2003.
INTEREST AND SUNDRY INCOME
Interest and sundry income was $1.9 million in 2002 compared to $5.8 million in
2001 and $2.1 million in 2000. The 2002 amount consisted primarily of interest
earned on the Company's cash balances. The 2001 amount consisted of
mark-to-market gains on its derivative contracts and interest on cash balances.
Effective January 1,2002,the Company implemented a new treasury management
system which complies with FAS 133 documentation requirements for hedge
accounting and accordingly, in 2002, mark-to-market losses on its gold put
option derivative contracts were recorded in shareholders' equity as a component
of accumulated other comprehensive loss. The Company's other derivative
contracts do not qualify for hedge accounting under FAS 133 and as such gains
and losses on these contracts are recorded in income as part of the hedged
transaction.
2003 OUTLOOK: Subject to investments in potential growth opportunities, the
Company anticipates a higher average cash balance in 2003 resulting in higher
interest income.
PRODUCTION COSTS
In 2002, onsite operating costs per ton milled remained unchanged compared to
2001 at C$52 per ton (costs per ton are reported in Canadian dollars, the
currency in which the expenditures are made). The 2002 and 2001 onsite
operating cost per ton figures represent a 4% improvement over C$54 in 2000.
Total cash operating costs to produce an ounce of gold increased 17% to $182
from $155 in 2001 but declined 3% compared to $188 in 2000. The increase in
total cash operating costs to $182 per ounce was primarily due to higher El
Coco royalties and lower zinc production and price, partially offset by the
benefits of a weaker Canadian dollar. The components of total cash operating
costs are presented in the table below. The table reconciles total cash
operating costs per ounce to total production costs as shown on the Company's
consolidated statements of income (loss).
RECONCILIATION OF COSTS PER OUNCE OF GOLD PRODUCED
(thousands,except as noted) 2002 2001 2000
--------- --------- ---------
Production costs per Consolidated Statements of Income (Loss) $ 75,969 $ 67,009 $ 49,997
Adjustments:
Revenue recognition adjustment (i) 593 (1,139) 1,139
Byproduct revenues, net of smelting, refining
and marketing charges (27,850) (28,383) (17,890)
El Coco royalty (10,764) (5,424) --
Non-cash reclamation provision (1,301) (1,155) (517)
--------- --------- ---------
Cash operating costs $ 36,647 $ 30,908 $ 32,729
Gold production (ounces) 260,183 234,860 173,852
--------- --------- ---------
Cash operating costs (per ounce) $ 141 $ 132 $ 188
El Coco royalty 41 23 --
--------- --------- ---------
Total cash operating costs (ii) $ 182 $ 155 $ 188
Non-cash costs (per ounce)
Reclamation provision 5 5 3
Amortization 50 54 53
--------- --------- ---------
Total production costs (per ounce) $ 237 $ 214 $ 244
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
Notes:
(i) Under the Company's revenue recognition policy,revenue is recognized
on concentrates when legal title passes. Since cash costs are
calculated on a production basis, this adjustment reflects the
portion of concentrate production for which revenue has not been
recognized in the year.
(ii) Total cash operating cost data is prepared in accordance with The Gold
Institute Production Cost Standard and is not a recognized measure
under US GAAP. Adoption of the standard is voluntary and this data may
not be comparable to data presented by other gold producers. Management
uses this generally accepted industry measure in evaluating operating
performance and believes it to be a realistic indication of such
performance. The data also indicates the Company's ability to generate
cash flow and operating earnings at various gold prices. This
additional information should be considered together with other data
prepared in accordance with US GAAP.
PAGE (27)
M A N A N G E M E N T ' S D I S C U S S I O N A N D A N A L Y S I S O F
O P E R A T I O N S A N D F I N A N C I A L C O N D I T I O N
[GRAPHIC]
2003 OUTLOOK: The Company expects the installation of the Level 219 crushing
plant and conveyor system (2,190 meters or 7,200 feet below surface) to allow
more efficient access to ore from the gold/copper areas in the lower mining
levels. Due to the increased availability of gold/copper ore and economies of
scale expected to be achieved from the first full year of gold production at
the 7,000 ton per day rate, the Company expects gold production to increase
and total cash operating costs to decrease marginally in 2003. El Coco
royalties are also expected to decrease in 2003 as that section of the mine
is depleted.
Agnico-Eagle's total cash operating costs per ounce of gold are heavily
dependent on the US dollar/Canadian dollar exchange rate and the prices it
receives for its byproduct silver, zinc and copper production, all of which are
beyond the Company's control. The assumptions made for 2003 are a US
dollar/Canadian dollar exchange rate of $1.47,a silver price of $4.60 per ounce,
a zinc price of $0.36 per pound and a copper price of $0.75 per pound.
EXPLORATION AND CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT EXPENSE
In 2002, with the expansion of LaRonde nearing completion, Agnico-Eagle
increased its corporate development resources to identify growth opportunities.
In 2002, exploration and corporate development expense was $3.8 million. Of this
amount, $3.5 million related to grassroots exploration and $0.3 million related
to corporate development. Exploration expenses were $6.4 million in 2001 and
$3.2 million in 2000. The 2001 amount includes a non-cash writeoff of $2.3
million resulting from the decision to drop its ownership interest in the Tonkin
Springs project in Nevada. As a result of this decision, the Company incurred a
non-cash charge and made an environmental restoration payment in 2001. Excluding
this write-off, exploration expense in 2002 decreased $0.6 million or 15% over
2001, and increased $0.3 million or 9% over 2000.
2003 OUTLOOK: Exploration and corporate development expense is expected to
increase 10-15% in 2003. The Company is increasing its grassroots exploration
activities leveraging its strong land position around the LaRonde Mine. The
Company also expects increased corporate development expenses as the management
team works to identify and evaluate growth opportunities.
GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
General and administrative expenses increased to $5.5 million in 2002 compared
to $4.5 million in 2001 and $4.2 million in 2000 mainly due to increased
corporate activities, including the transfer of mine personnel to head office.
2003 OUTLOOK: In 2003, general and administrative expenses are expected to
remain unchanged.
PROVINCIAL AND FEDERAL CAPITAL TAXES
Provincial capital taxes were $0.8 million in 2002 compared to $1.6 million and
$1.3 million in 2001 and 2000, respectively. These taxes are assessed on the
Company's capitalization (paid-up capital and debt) less certain allowances.
Despite the 2002 increase in paid-up capital, capital taxes decreased due to a
new incentive program aimed at encouraging exploration. Under this program, the
Company can claim a tax credit for certain exploration expenditures to reduce
capital tax otherwise payable.
Federal capital taxes are assessed on essentially the same capitalization
base as provincial capital taxes.The increase in 2002 to $0.9 million from $0.7
million in each of 2001 and 2000 represents increases in capitalization
resulting from the refinancing of the Company's 2004 convertible notes and the
unit offering.
2003 OUTLOOK: In 2003,the Company expects less of its exploration expenditures
to qualify for the incentive program mentioned above due to a different
geographic distribution of expenditures. Coupled with the 2002 increase in
paid-up capital,provincial capital taxes are expected to increase to between
$1.5 million and $2.0 million in 2003.
PAGE (28)
Federal capital taxes are expected to increase to between $1.2 million and
$1.4 million due to increases in the Company's capitalization. Under recently
proposed legislation, federal capital taxes are expected to be phased out over a
five year period with the complete elimination of federal capital taxes by 2008.
AMORTIZATION EXPENSE
Amortization expense was $13.0 million in 2002 compared to $12.7 million in 2001
and $9.2 million in 2000. The Company calculates its amortization on a
unit-of-production basis using proven and probable ore reserves as its
amortization base. Despite an 11% increase in production and capital additions
of $64.8 million, amortization remained relatively unchanged in 2002 due to a
23% increase in proven and probable reserves at year end. The increase over 2000
reflects the 2001 commissioning of assets previously under
construction. Amortization was $50 per ounce in 2002 compared to $54 in 2001 and
$53 in 2000.
2003 OUTLOOK: Amortization expense is expected to be $55 to $65 per ounce of
gold production in 2003 as increased production and anticipated LaRonde capital
expenditures of $36 million are only partially offset by increased reserves.
INTEREST EXPENSE
In 2002, interest expense decreased 43% to $7.3 million from $12.9 million in
2001 and increased 24% from $5.9 million in 2000.The decrease in 2002 over 2001
is due to the capitalization of interest on the portion of financing from the
Company's revolving bank facility used to fund the LaRonde expansion.
In 2002,the Company capitalized cash interest of $2.3 million on the
revolving bank facility compared to nil in 2001 and $5.9 million in 2000.
Of the $7.3 million interest expense in 2002, approximately $6.8 million
related to interest on the new 2012 convertible debentures and the old 2004
convertible notes, and the remaining $0.5 million represents non-cash
amortization of the financing costs associated with the 2012 convertible
debentures.Of the $12.9 million interest expense in 2001, $7.5 million related
to the 2004 convertible notes and $5.4 million related to the Company's
revolving bank facility. No interest was capitalized in 2001.
2003 OUTLOOK: The Company does not anticipate drawing on its revolving bank
facility in 2003 unless it invests in additional growth opportunities.As a
result, interest expense is expected to be $8.8 million, of which $6.5 million
relates to the debentures and the remaining $2.3 million is comprised of
non-cash amortization of financing costs relating to the new 2012 convertible
debentures and standby fees for the revolving bank facility. If the Company were
to draw on its revolving bank facility in 2003,interest would be charged to
income rather than being capitalized.
INCOME AND MINING TAXES
In 2002, the effective accounting recovery rate was 7.8% compared to a tax rate
of 74.9% in 2001 and a recovery rate of 51.6% in 2000. Although the Company
reported income before income and mining taxes of $4.6 million in 2002, the
Company's tax rate was reduced from the statutory tax rate of 39.9% due to the
effect of resource allowances, the utilization of previously unrecognized losses
carried forward, and the accelerated recovery of provincial mining duties. The
accelerated mining duty recovery was partially offset by an increase to future
mining tax liabilities for the resultant decrease in development pools available
for future deductions. In 2001, the Company reported a loss before income and
mining taxes of $2.9 million yet recorded a tax provision of $2.1 million. The
provision resulted from the Company not recognizing the benefit of deductible
temporary differences in the consolidated financial statements. In 2000, the
recovery rate of 51.6% was greater than the statutory tax rate due to the effect
of resource allowances.
2003 OUTLOOK: The Company currently has $23 million of past losses available to
reduce future income taxes. The benefit of these losses has not been recognized
in the consolidated financial statements. As a result,the Company does not
expect to accrue income taxes on the first $23 million of income generated in
the future. Once those losses have been completely absorbed, the Company will
begin to accrue non-cash deferred income taxes of approximately 30% of income
before income taxes.This rate differs from the statutory tax rate of
approximately 40% due primarily to rate reductions the Company is eligible to
receive on resource profits.
PAGE (29)
M A N A N G E M E N T ' S D I S C U S S I O N A N D A N A L Y S I S O F
O P E R A T I O N S A N D F I N A N C I A L C O N D I T I O N
L I Q U I D I T Y A N D C A P I T A L R E S O U R C E S
The Company's available capital resources were strengthened in 2002 as a
result of the common share and warrant unit offering in November and the
refinancing of its 2004 convertible notes in February. Net of financing costs
and after the repayment of its 2004 convertible notes, the Company raised $16
million from the issuance of its 2012 convertible debentures. After deducting
financing costs, the net proceeds of the unit offering in November were $183
million. The proceeds from these transactions were invested in short-term
deposits and will be used to fund growth opportunities, capital expenditures,
and other general corporate purposes.
As a result of these transactions, the Company reduced the outstanding
amount under its revolving bank facility to nil leaving available cash resources
of $252.9 million at the end of the year. The available cash resources are
comprised of $152.9 million in cash and $100 million in undrawn credit under the
revolving bank facility. An additional $25 million will become available under
the revolving bank facility once certain completion tests are satisfied in
connection with the LaRonde expansion. The completion tests are expected to be
satisfied in the fourth quarter of 2003. The available cash resources at the end
of 2002 improved from $116.2 million at the end of 2001 and $46.4 million at the
end of 2000. In March 2003, the Company's revolving bank facility was amended to
liberalize the use of debt to include acquisitions and development expenditures.
Operating cash flow, before working capital changes, increased to $20.4
million in 2002 from $12.4 million in 2001 and $6.5 million in 2000. This
improvement primarily reflects increased gold production and an increased gold
price. The Company's policy of not selling forward gold production allowed it to
realize the full benefits of rising gold prices in 2002.The impact of weaker
zinc prices was offset by the benefits of a weaker Canadian dollar and lower
cash interest expenses.
In 2002, Agnico-Eagle invested $61.4 million in the expansion of LaRonde to
7,000 tons of ore per day versus $36.3 million invested in 2001 and $68.4
million invested in 2000. Of the 2002 amount, $43.1 million was invested in
underground construction, development and resource definition, while $18.3
million was invested in the mill and surface infrastructure.
[GRAPHIC]
Consolidated capital expenditures in 2002 were $64.8 million with the
difference of $3.4 million representing capitalized interest and land
acquisitions. Expenditures on the LaRonde expansion were approximately $16.6
million in excess of budget for 2002 due primarily to poor productivity in
the development of the lower mining levels. The poor productivity was caused
by a SAG mill failure in July delaying backfill placement and high
underground temperatures resulting from record summer heat coupled with
delays in ventilation installation at depth.
In 2002, the Company declared its 23rd consecutive annual dividend of $0.03
per share, an increase over $0.02 per share declared in each of 2001 and 2000.
Although the Company expects to continue paying dividends, future dividends will
be at the discretion of the Company's Board of Directors and will be subject to
factors such as income, financial condition,and capital requirements.
The Company's material obligations under firm contractual commitments
relate to the convertible subordinated debentures in aggregate principal amount
of $143.8 million maturing in 2012. The Company may redeem the debentures on or
after February 15, 2006 in cash or, at the option of the Company, by delivering
freely tradable common shares. At December 31, 2002, the Company had no net
debt, that is, the $143.8 million principal amount outstanding on the
convertible subordinated debentures due 2012 was more than offset by the
Company's cash balances of $152.9 million. The Company expects however that
interest expense on the convertible subordinated debentures will exceed interest
income on cash balances over the next year.
PAGE (30)
2003 OUTLOOK: Based on an average gold price assumption of $320 for 2003, the
Company expects operating cash flow to increase driven by anticipated higher
gold production. Capital expenditures of $39 million are planned for 2003
including $36 million at LaRonde and $3 million on other projects. The Company
expects to fund these capital expenditures from operating cash flow and existing
cash balances.
R I S K P R O F I L E
FINANCIAL RISK
Agnico-Eagle's net income is most sensitive to metal prices and the US
dollar/Canadian dollar exchange rate. The following graph shows the estimated
impact on budgeted income per share ("EPS") in 2003 of a 10% change in metal
prices and exchange rate from 2002 averages.
[GRAPHIC]
In order to mitigate the impact of fluctuating precious and base metal
prices,Agnico-Eagle enters into hedging transactions under its Metal Price Risk
Management Policy, approved by the Board of Directors. The Company's policy and
practice is not to sell forward its gold production; however, the Policy does
allow the Company to review this to use hedging strategies where appropriate to
ensure an adequate return on new projects. In addition, the Company reviews
various price protection strategies and has bought put options in the past to
lock-in a minimum gold price for part of its production without limiting
participation in gold price increases. The Company's metal price hedge position
is summarized in note 9 to the consolidated financial statements. Agnico-Eagle's
metals policy only allows hedging of specific risk exposures and prohibits
speculative trading.
The Company receives payment for all of its metal sales in US dollars
and pays most of its operating and capital costs in Canadian dollars. This
gives rise to significant currency risk exposure. Agnico-Eagle has entered
into currency hedging transactions under its Foreign Exchange Risk Management
Policy, approved by the Board of Directors, to hedge part of its exposure.
The policy does not permit the hedging of translation exposure (that is, the
gains and losses that arise from the accounting translation of Canadian
dollar assets and liabilities into US dollars) as these do not give rise to
cash exposure. Agnico-Eagle's currency hedge position is summarized in note 9
to the consolidated financial statements. The currency policy only allows
hedging of specific risk exposures and prohibits speculative trading.
Fluctuations in interest rates can also affect income and cash flows.
However, Agnico-Eagle's convertible debentures are at a fixed rate and only its
bank debt and cash balances are subject to variable rates. Therefore the impact
of market rate changes on income and cash flows is minimal.The Company has a
Short-Term Investment Risk Management Policy, approved by the Board of
Directors, which only permits investment of excess cash balances in short-term
money market instruments of the highest credit quality.
OPERATIONAL RISK
The Company is subject to various risks that it encounters in its day-to-day
operations. It mitigates the likelihood and potential severity of these risks
through the application of the highest standards in the planning, construction
and operation of its facilities. In addition, emphasis is placed on hiring and
retaining competent personnel and developing their skills through training in
safety and loss control. Agnico-Eagle's operating and technical personnel have a
solid track record of developing and operating precious metal mines and the
LaRonde Mine has been recognized for its excellence in this regard with various
safety and development awards. The Company also transfers some of its normal
business risks through the purchase of insurance coverage. An Insurable Risk
Management Policy, approved by the Board of Directors, governs Agnico-Eagle's
purchase of insurance coverage and only permits the purchase of coverage from
insurance companies of the highest credit quality.
PAGE (31)
M A N A G E M E N T ' S D I S C U S S I O N A N D A N A L Y S I S O F
O P E R A T I O N S A N D F I N A N C I A L C O N D I T I O N
RECLAMATION RISK
LaRonde's mining and processing operations are subject to environmental,
reclamation and closure requirements. The Company monitors such requirements
regularly and revises its cost estimates as needed to meet legal and regulatory
requirements. Plans for ongoing operations, development and acquisitions are
made with due consideration to environmental, reclamation and closure
obligations. The Company reviews estimates at least annually and makes
appropriate accruals.
O U T L O O K
The Company ended 2002 with record proven and probable gold reserves of 4.0
million ounces of gold. In 2002, the Company converted 1.0 million ounces of
gold from resources to reserves at its LaRonde Mine. Including production
replacement, LaRonde's gold reserves increased 23% from 3.3 million ounces to
4.0 million ounces.At current and expected mining rates, the LaRonde Mine, the
Company's only producing property, has a mine life of approximately 17 years of
production. The Company has calculated proven and probable reserves based on a
gold price of $300 per ounce. If a gold price of $275 per ounce were assumed,
LaRonde's mineral reserve position would decline by a maximum of eight percent.
C R I T I C A L A C C O U N T I N G P O L I C I E S
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with US
GAAP requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the
reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses. The Company
evaluates estimates periodically, including those relating to metals awaiting
settlement, inventories, future tax assets and liabilities, and mining
properties. In making judgments about the carrying value of assets and
liabilities, the Company uses estimates based on historical experience and
various assumptions that are considered reasonable in the circumstances. Actual
results may differ from these estimates.
The Company believes the following critical accounting policies relate
to its more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of its
consolidated financial statements. Management has discussed the development and
selection of the following critical accounting policies with the Audit Committee
of the Board of Directors and the Audit Committee has reviewed the Company's
disclosure in this MD&A.
MINING PROPERTIES
The Company capitalizes the cost of acquiring land and mineral rights. If a
mineable ore body is discovered, such costs are amortized when production
begins,using the unit-of-production method based on proven and probable
reserves. If no mineable orebody is discovered, such costs are expensed in the
period in which it is determined the property has no future economic value.
Costs for grassroots exploration are charged to income when incurred until an
orebody is discovered. Further exploration and development to delineate the
orebody are capitalized once a feasibility study is successfully completed and
proven and probable reserves established.Construction costs,including interest
costs for projects specifically financed by debt, are capitalized at cost and
are not depreciated until commercial production begins. Amortization is based on
the unit-of-production method over the estimated proven and probable reserves of
the mine.
Subsequent capital expenditures which benefit future periods, such as the
construction of underground infrastructure, are capitalized at cost and
depreciated as mentioned above.
The carrying values of mining properties, plant and equipment and deferred
expenditures are periodically reviewed for impairment. Impairment testing is
based on the future undiscounted net cash flows of the operating mine or
development property. If it is determined that the estimated net recoverable
amount is less than the carrying value, the asset is written down to its fair
value with a charge to income. Estimated future cash flows include estimates of
recoverable metals in proven and probable reserves. Metals price assumptions are
determined considering current and historical prices, price trends and other
market related factors. Estimated future cash flows also consider ongoing
capital requirements, reclamation costs, and related income and mining taxes,
and are based on detailed engineering life-of-mine plans.
PAGE (32)
REVENUE RECOGNITION
The Company recognizes revenue from concentrates when legal title passes and
estimates net realizable value using current metal prices and metal content from
samples of the concentrates. Adjustments to the final settlements occur when the
average metal prices are determined over a quotation period. These adjustments
are included in revenue when determined and traditionally have not been
material.
Revenue from gold and silver recovered in the form of dore bars is recorded
when the gold and silver are refined and sold.
RECLAMATION COSTS
Estimated reclamation costs are based on legal, environmental and regulatory
requirements. Prior to January 1,2003, reclamation costs were accrued on an
undiscounted unit-of-production basis, using proven and probable reserves as the
base. Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted the provisions of Financial
Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 143 relating to asset retirement
obligations, which applies to long-lived assets such as mines. The new standard
requires companies to recognize the present value of mine reclamation costs as a
liability in the period the obligation is incurred and then to periodically
re-evaluate the liability. At inception, an amount equal to the liability is
recorded as an increase to the carrying value of the related long-lived asset.
Each period, an accretion amount is charged to income to adjust the liability to
the estimated future value. The initial liability, which is included in the
carrying value of the asset, is also depreciated each period based on the
depreciation method used for that asset.
In order to calculate the initial liability in 2002, the Company has made
estimates of the final reclamation costs based on mine-closure plans approved by
the environmental agencies. The Company periodically reviews these cost
estimates and updates them if assumptions change, such as life-of-mine.
The adoption of FAS 143 will negatively impact income in the first
quarter of 2003 when the Company plans to record a charge of approximately
$1.6 million, or $0.02 per share, representing the past cumulative effect of
adopting this standard. In addition to this one-time charge, the accretion
and depreciation associated with the new standard is expected to be $0.5
million in 2003. For 2003, the adoption of this standard will not be
materially different from the current practice of accruing reclamation costs.
On an ongoing basis, using current assumptions, reclamation expense determined
in accordance with FAS 143 is expected to be $0.5 million yearly.
FUTURE TAX ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
The Company uses the liability method of tax allocation for accounting for
income taxes. Under the liability method, future tax assets and liabilities
are determined based on differences between the financial reporting and tax
bases of assets and liabilities. Future tax assets are reduced by a valuation
allowance if it is more likely than not that some or all of the future tax
asset will not be realized. The Company evaluates the carrying value of its
future tax assets quarterly by assessing its valuation allowance and by
adjusting the amount of such allowance, if necessary. The factors used to
assess the likelihood of realization are forecasts of future taxable income
and available tax planning strategies that could be implemented to realize
future tax assets.
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company's existing stock-based compensation plan provides for the granting
of options to directors, officers, employees and service providers to purchase
common shares. Share options have exercise prices equal to market price at the
grant date. As a result, the Company is not required to recognize compensation
expense for options granted under this plan. Instead, the Company discloses the
pro forma impact of stock option grants on reported income as if it had
accounted for grants at fair value. Fair value is determined using the
Black-Scholes option valuation model. However, limitations with existing option
valuation models create difficulties in determining a reliable single measure of
the fair value of stock option grants. The dilutive impact of stock option
grants is currently factored into the Company's reported diluted income (loss)
per share.
PAGE (33)
S U M M A R I Z E D Q U A R T E R L Y D A T A
Quarter ended
(thousands of US$, except as noted) MAR. 31, 2002 Mar.31, 2001 JUNE 30, 2002 June 30, 2001
------------ ------------ ------------- -------------
C O N S O L I D A T E D F I N A N C I A L
D A T A
INCOME AND CASH FLOW
LARONDE DIVISION
Revenues from mining operations 25,547 21,116 30,616 29,513
Mine operating costs 17,603 11,873 19,613 21,256
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
Mine operating profit 7,944 9,243 11,003 8,257
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
Net income (loss) for the period 477 498 3,360 480
Net income (loss) per share
(basic and fully diluted) 0.01 0.01 0.05 0.01
Operating cash flow* 4,972 5,806 7,633 4,134
Operating cash flow per share 0.07 0.11 0.11 0.07
Weighted average number of common
shares outstanding (in thousands) 68,006 54,270 69,050 56,360
Tons of ore milled 477,333 477,989 491,083 459,400
Head grades:
Gold (ounces per ton) 0.14 0.13 0.17 0.16
Silver (ounces per ton) 2.52 2.10 2.28 2.53
Zinc (%) 5.24 5.22 3.64 5.32
Copper (%) 0.22 0.17 0.30 0.21
Recovery rates (%):
Gold 94.54 93.20 92.92 93.83
Silver 83.70 82.70 80.10 80.70
Zinc 84.90 78.80 81.40 78.10
Copper 60.30 60.30 74.40 60.30
Payable production:
Gold (ounces) 60,259 56,623 74,617 65,937
Silver (ounces in thousands) 724 634 709 723
Zinc (pounds in thousands) 35,997 33,262 24,740 32,600
Copper (pounds in thousands) 1,131 927 2,084 1,039
Realized prices (US$):
Gold (per ounce) 300 269 310 267
Silver (per ounce) 4.48 4.48 4.67 4.59
Zinc (per pound) 0.36 0.46 0.36 0.42
Copper (per pound) 0.72 0.84 0.78 0.88
T O T A L P R O D U C T I O N C O S T S
P E R G O L D O U N C E P R O D U C E D (US$)
Onsite operating costs
(including reclamation provision) 258 288 219 237
Less: Non-cash reclamation provision (5) (5) (5) (5)
Net byproduct revenues (124) (156) (90) (121)
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
Cash operating costs 129 127 124 111
El Coco royalty 32 -- 40 23
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
Total cash operating costs 161 127 164 134
Non-cash costs:
Reclamation provision 5 5 5 5
Amortization 54 60 49 48
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
Total production costs 220 192 218 187
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
Onsite operating costs per
ton milled (C$) 52 50 52 52
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
------------ ----------- ------------ ------------
*Before non-cash working capital.
PAGE (34)
Quarter ended
SEPT. 30, 2002 Sept. 30, 2001 DEC. 31, 2002 Dec. 31, 2001 TOTAL 2002 Total 2001
- -------------- --------------- ------------- ------------- ---------- ----------
20,224 18,944 31,640 26,470 108,027 96,043
15,460 13,995 23,293 19,885 75,969 67,009
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
4,764 4,949 8,347 6,585 32,058 29,034
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
(630) (5,631) 816 (1,065) 4,023 (5,718)
(0.01) (0.08) 0.01 (0.02) 0.06 (0.09)
2,343 939 5,416 1,545 20,364 12,424
0.03 0.01 0.07 0.02 0.28 0.20
69,549 67,827 76,676 67,619 70,821 61,334
456,818 386,929 537,895 480,931 1,963,129 1,805,248
0.13 0.13 0.14 0.16 0.14 0.15
2.25 2.48 2.32 2.16 2.35 2.32
4.01 5.22 3.74 5.02 4.14 5.19
0.31 0.20 0.50 0.24 0.34 0.21
92.43 91.29 92.97 93.30 93.14 92.59
77.60 76.80 80.60 79.10 80.60 79.50
67.20 78.40 78.00 81.70 78.40 78.98
63.60 52.60 80.30 65.80 71.40 58.17
50,073 45,928 75,235 66,372 260,183 234,860
547 570 1,104 597 3,084 2,524
20,713 26,808 26,610 33,605 108,060 126,275
1,728 716 3,984 1,415 8,927 4,097
314 284 318 279 312 273
4.73 4.21 4.51 4.60 4.61 4.35
0.37 0.37 0.34 0.35 0.34 0.40
0.74 0.66 0.71 0.59 0.70 0.64
304 291 244 228 253 257
(5) (5) (5) (5) (5) (5)
(102) (121) (111) (90) (107) (120)
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
197 165 128 133 141 132
11 16 70 48 41 23
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
208 181 198 181 182 155
5 5 5 5 5 5
66 70 37 44 50 54
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
279 256 240 230 237 214
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
51 53 53 49 52 52
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
- -------------- -------------- ------------- ----------- ---------- ----------
PAGE (35)
F I V E Y E A R F I N A N C I A L
A N D O P E R AT I N G S U M M A R Y
Year ended December 31,
(thousands of US$,except as noted) 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998
-------- -------------------------------------------------
F I N A N C I A L D A T A
Revenues from mining operations 108,027 96,043 63,676 23,392 43,201
Interest and sundry income 1,943 5,752 2,145 (5,519) 3,084
-------- -------------------------------------------------
109,970 101,795 65,821 17,873 46,285
Costs and expenses 105,359 104,651 76,595 49,958 61,544
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Loss before income taxes 4,611 (2,856) (10,774) (32,085) (15,259)
Income and mining taxes expense (recoveries) (588) 2,862 (3,906) (13,016) (4,766)
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Net (income) loss 4,023 (5,718) (6,868) (19,069) (10,493)
-------- -------------------------------------------------
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Net (income) loss per share 0.06 (0.09) (0.12) (0.36) (0.21)
Operating cash flow
(before non-cash working capital) 20,364 12,424 6,530 (13,570) 1,261
Operating cash flow per share 0.28 0.20 0.12 (0.36) 0.03
Dividends declared per share 0.03 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.02
Capital expenditures 64,836 36,278 69,640 68,892 43,774
Average gold price per ounce realized 312 273 278 274 296
Average exchange rate (US$ per C$) 0.6368 0.6458 0.6723 0.6725 0.6751
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding (in thousands) 70,821 61,334 54,447 53,331 50,005
Working capital (including undrawn credit lines) 310,142 135,908 49,733 106,941 93,465
Total assets 593,807 393,464 364,333 297,015 275,675
Long-term debt 143,750 151,081 186,261 131,458 114,284
Shareholders' equity 397,693 198,426 118,585 118,658 128,621
O P E R A T I N G S U M M A R Y
LARONDE DIVISION
Revenues from mining operations 108,027 96,043 63,676 21,561 43,201
Mine operating costs 75,969 67,009 49,997 28,447 34,535
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Mine operating profit (loss) 32,058 29,034 13,679 (6,886) 8,666
-------- -------------------------------------------------
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Tons of ore milled 1,963,129 1,805,248 1,415,888 798,396 776,752
Gold (ounces per ton) 0.14 0.15 0.14 0.13 0.21
Gold production (ounces) 260,183 234,860 173,852 90,035 150,443
Silver production (ounces in thousands) 3,084 2,524 1,128 277 270
Zinc production (pounds in thousands) 108,060 126,275 50,681 9,778 1,231
Copper production (pounds in thousands) 8,927 4,097 4,943 3,282 6,151
T O T A L P R O D U C T I O N C O S T S
P E R G O L D O U N C E P R O D U C E D (US$)
Onsite operating costs
(including reclamation provision) 253 257 294 334 229
Less: Non-cash reclamation provision (5) (5) (3) (4) (3)
Net byproduct revenues (107) (120) (103) (53) (14)
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Cash operating costs 141 132 188 277 212
El Coco royalty 41 23 -- -- --
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Total cash operating costs 182 155 188 277 212
Non-cash costs: Reclamation provision 5 5 3 4 3
Amortization 50 54 53 61 42
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Total production costs 237 214 244 342 257
-------- -------------------------------------------------
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Onsite operating costs per ton milled (C$) 52 52 54 56 66
-------- -------------------------------------------------
-------- -------------------------------------------------
G O L D R E S E R V E S A N D
R E S O U R C E S
Total Proven and Probable Reserves &
Indicated Resources (thousands, ounces of gold) 5,135 3,399 3,649 3,016 1,274
-------- -------------------------------------------------
-------- -------------------------------------------------
Total Inferred Resources (thousands, ounces of gold) 5,160 5,110 4,111 3,051 3,271
-------- -------------------------------------------------
-------- -------------------------------------------------
PAGE (36)
M A N A G E M E N T ' S R E S P O N S I B I L I T Y F O R
F I N A N C I A L R E P O R T I N G
The accompanying consolidated financial statements of Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited
and all the information in this annual report are the responsibility of
management and have been approved by the Board of Directors.
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared by management
in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles and
considered to be the most appropriate in the circumstances. The consolidated
financial statements are not precise, since they include amounts based on
estimates and judgments. Management has determined such amounts on a
reasonable basis in order to ensure that the consolidated financial
statements are presented fairly, in all material respects. Management has
prepared the financial information presented elsewhere in the annual report
and has ensured that it is consistent with that in the consolidated financial
statements.
Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited maintains systems of internal accounting and
administrative controls of high quality, consistent with reasonable cost. Such
systems are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial
information is relevant, reliable and accurate and that the Company's assets are
appropriately accounted for and adequately safeguarded.
The Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring that management fulfills
its responsibilities for financial reporting and is ultimately responsible for
reviewing and approving the consolidated financial statements. The Board of
Directors carries out this responsibility principally through its Audit
Committee.
The Audit Committee is appointed by the Board of Directors and all of its
members are independent directors. The Audit Committee meets periodically with
management, as well as the external auditors,to discuss internal controls over
the financial reporting process, auditing matters and financial reporting
issues, to satisfy itself that each party is properly discharging its
responsibilities, and to review the annual report, the consolidated financial
statements and the external auditors' report. The Audit Committee reports its
findings to the Board of Directors for consideration when approving the
consolidated financial statements for issuance to the shareholders.
The Audit Committee also considers, for review by the Board of Directors
and approval by the sharehold-ers,the engagement or re-appointment of the
external auditors.
The consolidated financial statements have been audited by Ernst & Young
LLP, the external auditors, in accordance with Canadian and United States
generally accepted auditing standards on behalf of the shareholders. Ernst &
Young LLP has full and free access to the Audit Committee.
/s/ Sean Boyd, C.A. /s/ David Garofalo, C.A.
--------------------------------- -----------------------------
Sean Boyd, C.A. David Garofalo, C.A.
President and Chief Executive Officer Vice President, Finance and
Chief Financial Officer
Toronto, Canada
February 18, 2003
PAGE (37)
A U D I T O R S' R E P O R T
T O T H E S H A R E H O L D E R S O F A G N I C O - E A G L E M I N E S
L I M I T E D :
We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited as
at December 31, 2002 and 2001 and the consolidated statements of income (loss)
and comprehensive income (loss), shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of
the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2002. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.Our responsibility
is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian and United States
generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and
perform an audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements
are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis,
evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An
audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation.
In our opinion, these consolidated financial statements present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of the Company as at December
31, 2002 and 2001 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each
of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2002 in accordance with
United States generally accepted accounting principles.
We also reported separately on February 18, 2003 to the shareholders of
Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited, on our audit, conducted in accordance with Canadian
and United States generally accepted auditing standards, where we expressed an
opinion without reservation on December 31, 2002 and 2001 consolidated financial
statements, prepared in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting
principles.
/s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
-----------------------------------------
Ernst & Young LLP
Chartered Accountants
Toronto, Canada
February 18, 2003
PAGE (38)
S U M M A R Y O F S I G N I F I C A N T
A C C O U N T I N G P O L I C I E S
These consolidated financial statements of Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited
("Agnico-Eagle" or the "Company") are expressed in thousands of United States
dollars ("US dollars"),except where noted,and have been prepared in
accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles ("US
GAAP"). We have also prepared consolidated financial statements in accordance
with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles. Since a precise
determination of many assets and liabilities depends on future events,the
presentation of consolidated financial statements for a period necessarily
involves the use of estimates and approximations. Actual results may differ
from such estimates and approximations. The consolidated financial statements
have, in management's opinion, been prepared within reasonable limits of
materiality and within the framework of the significant accounting policies
referred to below.
B A S I S O F C O N S O L I D AT I O N
These consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and
all its subsidiaries.Prior to October 15, 2001, Agnico-Eagle consolidated its
49.5% direct and indirect ownership interest in Mentor Exploration and
Development Co., Limited ("Mentor") on the basis of the Company's ability to
determine its strategic operating, investing and financing policies. Effective
October 15, 2001, Mentor was amalgamated with the Company under a court approved
plan of arrangement to continue as Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited (note 2).
The cost of the Company's own shares held by Mentor had been presented in
the consolidated balance sheets as a reduction of shareholders' equity. Changes
in the Company's own shares held by a subsidiary company resulted from purchases
and sales of Agnico-Eagle's shares by Mentor.
Agnico-Eagle recognizes gains and losses on the effective disposition of
interests in associated companies arising when such associated companies issue
treasury shares to third parties. Gains are recognized in income only if there
is reasonable assurance of realization, otherwise they are recorded within
accumulated other comprehensive loss.
C A S H A N D C A S H E Q U I V A L E N T S
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and short-term investments in
money market instruments with original maturities of three months or less at the
date of purchase. Short-term investments are carried at cost, which approximates
market value.
I N V E N T O R I E S
Inventories consist of ore stockpiles, in-process concentrates and supplies.
Ore stockpiles represent coarse ore that has been mined and is available
for further processing. Stockpiles are measured by estimating the number of
tons,contained ounces (based on assays) and recovery percentages (based on
actual recovery rates achieved for processing similar ore). Specific tonnages
are verified and compared to original estimates once the stockpile is milled.
Stockpiles are not intended to be long-term inventory items and therefore are
generally processed within twelve months of extraction. Ore stockpiles are
valued at the lower of net realizable value and mining costs incurred up to
the point of stockpiling the ore, including amortization relating to the
mining operations.
In-process inventories consist of concentrates for which legal title has
not yet passed to custom smelters. In-process inventories are measured based on
assays of the processed concentrates and are valued based on the lower of net
realizable value and the mining and milling costs associated with extracting and
processing the ore.
Supplies, consisting of mine stores inventory, are valued at the lower of
average cost and replacement cost.
PAGE (39)
S U M M A R Y O F S I G N I F I C A N T A C C O U N T I N G P O L I C I E S
D E F E R R E D F I N A N C I N G C O S T S
Deferred financing costs, which are included in other assets on the consolidated
balance sheets and relate to the issuance of the senior convertible debentures
and the Company's revolving credit facility, are being amortized to income over
the term of the related obligations. If the holders of the Company's convertible
debentures exercise their conversion option, the common shares issued on such
conversion will be recorded at an amount equal to the aggregate of the carrying
value of the long-term liability, net of the associated financing costs, with no
gain or loss being recognized in income.
MI N I N G P R O P E R T I E S , P L A N T A N D E Q U I P M E N T A N D
D E F E R R E D E X P E N D I T U R E S
Significant payments related to the acquisition of land and mineral rights are
capitalized as mining properties at cost. If a mineable ore body is
discovered, such costs are amortized to income when production begins, using the
unit-of-production method, based on estimated proven and probable reserves. If
no mineable ore body is discovered, such costs are expensed in the period in
which it is determined the property has no future economic value.
Expenditures for new facilities and improvements that can extend the useful
lives of existing facilities are capitalized as plant and equipment at cost.
Interest costs incurred, prior to the commencement of commercial production for
projects specifically financed by debt, are capitalized.
Agnico-Eagle records depreciation on plant and equipment used in commercial
production on a unit-of-production basis based on the estimated proven and
probable ore reserves of the mine, which does not exceed 20 years. Repairs and
maintenance expenditures are charged to income as production costs. Assets
under construction are not depreciated until the end of the construction
period. Upon commencement of commercial production, the capitalized construction
costs are transferred to the various categories of plant and equipment.
Mineral exploration costs are charged to income in the year in which they
are incurred. When it is determined that a mining property can be economically
developed as a result of established proven and probable reserves, the costs of
further exploration and development to further delineate the orebody on such
property are capitalized. The establishment of proven and probable reserves is
based on results of final feasibility studies, which indicate whether a property
is economically feasible. Upon commencement of the commercial production of a
development project, these costs are transferred to the appropriate asset
category and are amortized to income using the unit-of-production method
mentioned above. Deferred expenditures, net of salvage values, relating to a
property which is abandoned or considered uneconomic for the foreseeable
future, are written off.
The carrying values of mining properties, plant and equipment and deferred
expenditures are reviewed periodically, when impairment factors exist, for
possible impairment, based on the future undiscounted net cash flows of the
operating mine and development property. If it is determined that the estimated
net recoverable amount is less than the carrying value, then a write down to the
estimated fair value amount is made with a charge to income. Estimated future
cash flows of an operating mine and development properties include estimates of
recoverable ounces of gold based on the proven and probable reserves of the
mine, gold prices (considering current and historical prices, price trends and
related factors), production levels, capital and reclamation costs, and related
income and mining taxes, all based on detailed engineering life-of-mine
plans. Cash flows are subject to risks and uncertainties and changes in the
estimates of the cash flows could affect the recoverability of long-lived
assets.
F I N A N C I A L I N S T R U M E N T S
Agnico-Eagle employs derivative financial instruments, primarily option
contracts, to manage exposure to fluctuations in metal prices and foreign
currency exchange rates. Agnico-Eagle does not hold financial instruments or
derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
As a result of adopting United States Financial Accounting Standards Board
("FASB") Statements No. 133 ("FAS 133"), the Company recognizes all derivative
financial instruments in the consolidated financial statements at fair value
regardless of the purpose or intent for holding the instrument. Changes in the
fair value of derivative financial instruments are either recognized
periodically in income or in shareholders' equity as a component of other
comprehensive loss depending on whether the derivative financial
PAGE (40)
instrument qualifies for hedge accounting. Currently, only the Company's gold
put option contracts qualify for hedge accounting and changes in the fair value
of these derivative financial instruments are recognized as a component of other
comprehensive loss. Changes in the fair value of all other derivative financial
instruments are recognized in income.
R E V E N U E R E C O G N I T I O N
Effective 2000, the Company changed its accounting policy with respect to
revenue recognition. As a result of the change, revenue from concentrates is
recognized when legal title passes to the custom smelters and is valued on an
estimated net realizable value basis. Periodic adjustments on the final
settlement of concentrates previously sold to smelters are included in revenue
as soon as the amount can be reasonably determined. Revenue from gold and silver
in the form of dore bars is recorded when the refined gold and silver are sold
and are also included in revenues from mining operations. Prior to this
change, Agnico-Eagle recognized revenue on a production basis. Under this basis
of accounting, revenue was recognized once the ore was extracted and processed
at the onsite mill facilities. The accounting change was accounted for as a
cumulative catch-up adjustment and resulted in a loss of $1.8 million or $0.03
per share in 2000.
Revenues from mining operations consist of gold and byproduct revenues, net
of smelting, refining and other marketing charges.
F O R E I G N C U R R E N C Y T R A N S L A T I O N
Monetary assets and liabilities of Agnico-Eagle's operations denominated in a
currency other than US dollars are translated into US dollars using the
exchange rate in effect at the year end. Non-monetary assets and liabilities
are translated at historical exchange rates while revenues and expenses are
translated at the average exchange rate during the year, with the exception
of amortization, which is translated at historical exchange rates. Exchange
gains and losses are included in income except for gains and losses on
foreign currency contracts used to hedge specific future commitments in
foreign currencies. Gains and losses on these contracts are accounted for as
a component of the related hedged transactions.
R E C L A M A T I O N C O S T S
Estimated future reclamation costs are based primarily on legal environmental
and regulatory requirements. The costs of Agnico-Eagle's active mining
operations are accrued, on an undiscounted basis, as a production cost, on a
unit-of-production method based on the proven and probable ore reserves. Future
reclamation costs for the Company's inactive mines are accrued based on
management's best estimate of the costs at the end of each period, comprising
costs expected to be incurred at a site, on an undiscounted basis. Such cost
estimates include, where applicable, ongoing care and maintenance and monitoring
costs. Changes in estimates are reflected in income in the period an estimate is
revised.
Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted the provisions of FASB
Statement No. 143 ("FAS 143") related to asset retirement obligations.FAS 143
applies to legal obligations resulting from the construction, development and
operation of long-lived assets, such as mining assets. The new standard requires
companies to recognize the present value of reclamation costs as a liability in
the period the legal obligation is incurred. The Company estimated the final
reclamation provision taking into account current circumstances such as
projected mine life at the end of 2002 and current throughput of 7,000 tons per
day. Subsequent revisions to the final reclamation estimate could result from
legislative changes or changes in the underlying assumptions - such as
life-of-mine.
The initial adoption of FAS 143 will negatively impact income in the first
quarter of 2003 as the Company records a charge representing the cumulative
effect of adopting this standard. On an annual basis, the Company expects that
the impact of adopting this standard will not be materially different from the
current practice of accruing reclamation costs.
I N C O M E A N D M I N I N G T A X E S
Agnico-Eagle follows the liability method of tax allocation for accounting for
income taxes. Under this method of tax allocation, future income and mining tax
bases of assets and liabilities are measured using the substantively enacted tax
rates and laws expected to be in effect when the differences are expected to
reverse.
From time to time, the Company issues flow-through shares to finance some
of its exploration activities. Common shares of the Company are issued
PAGE (41)
S U M M A R Y O F S I G N I F I C A N T A C C O U N T I N G P O L I C I E S
for cash at the market price in exchange for Agnico-Eagle giving up the tax
benefits arising from the exploration activities. Agnico-Eagle records such
common share issuances by crediting share capital for the full value of cash
consideration received.The cost of the future income and mining tax benefits
arising at the time Agnico-Eagle renounces the income and mining tax
deductibility of the eligible expenditures to the investors are accounted for as
a share issue cost.
S T O C K- B A S E D C O M P E N S A T I O N
Agnico-Eagle has two stock-based compensation plans. The Employee Stock Option
Plan is described in note 7(a) and the Incentive Share Purchase Plan is
described in note 7(b) to the consolidated financial statements.
The Company accounts for its stock option grants based on the recognition
and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 and
related interpretations. The application of Opinion No. 25 results in no
compensation expense being recorded, in Agnico-Eagle's circumstances, as all
options granted had an exercise price equal to the market value of the
underlying stock on the date of grant. Pro-forma fair value disclosures assume
that the estimated fair value of options would be amortized to expense over the
options' vesting period. Any consideration paid by employees on exercise of
stock options or purchase of stock is credited to share capital.
P E N S I O N C O S T S A N D O B L I G A T I O N S A N D P O S T -
R E T I R E M E N T B E N E F I T S
Prior to July 1, 1997, Agnico-Eagle had a defined benefit plan for its salaried
employees, which was substantially converted to a defined contribution plan. In
addition, Agnico-Eagle provides a non-registered supplementary executive
retirement defined benefit plan for its senior officers. The executive
retirement plan benefits are generally based on the employees' years of service
and level of compensation. Pension expense related to the defined benefit plan
is the net of the cost of benefits provided, the interest cost of projected
benefits, return on plan assets and amortization of experience gains and
losses. Pension fund assets are measured at current fair values. Actuarially
determined plan surpluses or deficits, experience gains or losses and the cost
of pension plan improvements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the
expected average remaining service life of the employee group.
Agnico-Eagle maintains a defined contribution plan covering all of its
employees. The plan is funded by Company contributions based on a percentage of
income for services rendered by employees.
The Company does not offer any post-retirement benefits to its employees.
N E W A C C O U N T I N G P R O N O U N C E M E N T S
In June 2002, the FASB introduced FAS 146 "Accounting for Costs Associated with
Exit or Disposal Activities" nullifying Emerging Issues Task Force ("EITF")
Issue No.94-3 "Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits
and Other Costs to Exit and Activity (including Certain Costs Incurred in a
Restructuring)."FAS 146 requires that a liability for a cost associated with an
exit or disposal activity be recognized when the liability is incurred rather
than the date of an entity's commitment to an exit plan as was required under
EITF No. 94-3. FAS 146 is effective for exit or disposal activities initiated
after December 31, 2002, and the Company does not anticipate any impact upon
adoption except with respect to any exit or disposal activities initiated after
that date.
C O M P A R A T I V E F I G U R E S
Certain items in the comparative consolidated financial statements have been
reclassified from statements previously presented to conform to the presentation
of the 2002 consolidated financial statements.
PAGE (42)
C O N S O L I D A T E D B A L A N C E S H E E T S
(thousands of US$,US 2002 2001
GAAP basis) As at December 31, ------------ ------------
A S S E T S
Current
Cash and cash equivalents $ 152,934 $ 21,180
Metals awaiting settlement
note 1 29,749 20,080
Income taxes recoverable 2,900 628
Inventories:
Ore stockpiles 4,604 4,567
In-process concentrates 1,008 1,287
Supplies 5,008 3,903
Prepaid expenses and other
note 2(a) 10,025 3,822
------------ ------------
Total current assets 206,228 55,467
Fair value of derivative
financial instruments note 9 1,835 6,851
Other assets note 2(b) 8,795 6,035
Future income and mining tax
assets note 8 23,890 23,890
Mining properties note 3 353,059 301,221
------------ ------------
$ 593,807 $ 393,464
------------ ------------
------------ ------------
L I A B I L I T I E S A N D
S H A R E H O L D E R S '
E Q U I T Y
Current
Accounts payable and accrued
liabilities note 10 $ 15,246 $ 9,423
Dividends payable 3,013 1,853
Income and mining taxes payable 954 1,231
Interest payable 1,873 2,052
------------ ------------
Total current liabilities 21,086 14,559
------------ ------------
Long-term debt note 4 143,750 151,081
------------ ------------
Reclamation provision and
other liabilities note 5 5,043 4,055
------------ ------------
Fair value of derivative
financial instruments note 9 5,346 7,026
------------ ------------
Future income and mining tax
liabilities note 8 20,889 18,317
------------ ------------
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common shares note 6(a)
Authorized - unlimited
Issued - 83,636,861 (2001 -
67,722,853) 591,969 407,347
Warrants note 6(c) 15,732 --
Contributed surplus 7,181 7,181
Deficit (196,023) (197,537)
Accumulated other
comprehensive loss note 6(d) (21,166) (18,565)
------------ ------------
Total shareholders'equity 397,693 198,426
------------ ------------
$ 593,807 $ 393,464
------------ ------------
------------ ------------
See accompanying notes
On behalf of the Board:
/s/ Sean Boyd, C.A. /s/ Bernard Kraft, C.A.
- -------------------- -----------------------
Sean Boyd, C.A. Bernard Kraft, C.A.
Director Director
PAGE (43)
C O N S O L I D A T E D S T A T E M E N T S
O F I N C O M E ( L O S S ) A N D
C O M P R E H E N S I V E I N C O M E ( L O S S )
(thousands of US$,US GAAP basis) Years ended December 31, 2002 2001 2000
--------- --------- ---------
R E V E N U E S
Revenues from mining operations $ 108,027 $ 96,043 $ 63,676
Interest and sundry income 1,943 5,752 2,145
--------- --------- ---------
109,970 101,795 65,821
C O S T S A N D E X P E N S E S
Production note 3 75,969 67,009 49,997
Exploration and corporate development note 3 3,766 6,391 3,213
Amortization 12,998 12,658 9,220
General and administrative 5,530 4,461 4,223
Provincial capital tax 829 1,551 1,301
Interest note 4 7,341 12,917 5,920
Foreign currency (gain) loss (1,074) (336) 890
--------- --------- ---------
Income (loss) before income, mining and federal capital taxes 4,611 (2,856) (8,943)
Federal capital tax 949 723 705
Income and mining taxes expense (recovery) note 8 (361) 2,139 (4,611)
--------- --------- ---------
Net income (loss) before cumulative catch-up adjustment 4,023 (5,718) (5,037)
Cumulative catch-up adjustment relating to revenue recognition -- -- (1,831)
--------- --------- ---------
Net income (loss) for the year $ 4,023 $ (5,718) $ (6,868)
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
Net income (loss) before cumulative catch-up adjustment
per share - basic and diluted note 6(e) $ 0.06 $ (0.09) $ (0.09)
Cumulative catch-up adjustment per share - basic and diluted -- -- (0.03)
--------- --------- ---------
Net income (loss) per share - basic and diluted note 6(e) $ 0.06 $ (0.09) $ (0.12)
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS):
Net income (loss) for the year $ 4,023 $ (5,718) $ (6,868)
--------- --------- ---------
Other comprehensive loss:
Unrealized loss on hedging activities (5,512) -- --
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale securities 1,558 -- --
Dilution gain on issuance of securities by
subsidiary company 1,610 -- --
Minimum pension liability (980) -- --
Cumulative transitional adjustment upon the adoption
of FAS 133 related to the accounting for derivative
instruments and hedging activities -- (2,810) --
Adjustments for derivative instruments,
maturing during the year, included in the
cumulative adjustment at January 1,2001 723 152 --
--------- --------- ---------
Other comprehensive loss for the year (2,601) (2,658) --
--------- --------- ---------
Total comprehensive income (loss) for the year $ 1,422 $ (8,376) $ (6,868)
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
See accompanying notes
PAGE (44)
C O N S O L I D A T E D S T A T E M E N T S O F
S H A R E H O L D E R S ' E Q U I T Y
Accumulated
(thousands of US$,US GAAP basis) Common Shares Other
------------------- Contributed Comprehensive
Years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 Shares Amount Warrants Surplus Deficit Loss
and 2000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE DECEMBER 31,1999 55,391,451 $ 319,782 $ -- $ 7,181 $ (182,487) $(15,907)
Shares issued under Employee Stock
Option Plan note 7(a) 13,700 68 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under the Share
Purchase Plan note 7(b) 248,769 1,490 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under flow-through share
private placement note 6(b) 475,000 2,140 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under the Company's
dividend reinvestment plan 10,560 72 -- -- -- --
Net loss -- -- -- -- (6,868) --
Dividends declared ($0.02 per share) -- -- -- -- (1,110) --
BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2000 56,139,480 $ 323,552 -- $ 7,181 $ (190,465) $ (15,907)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shares issued under Employee Stock
Option Plan note 7(a) 426,100 2,100 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under the Share
Purchase Plan note 7(b) 209,826 1,783 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under flow-through share
private placement note 6(b) 200,000 2,513 -- -- -- --
Shares issued by public offering, net
of share issue costs note 6(c) 10,350,000 75,450 -- -- --
Shares issued on the conversion of
Company's senior convertible notes 6,691 113 -- -- -- --
Shares issued to acquire Mentor note 2 369,348 1,719 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under the Company's
dividend reinvestment plan 21,408 117 -- -- -- --
Net loss for the year -- -- -- -- (5,718) --
Dividends declared ($0.02 per share) -- -- -- -- (1,354) --
Other comprehensive loss for the year -- -- -- -- -- (2,658)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE DECEMBER 31, 2001 67,722,853 $ 407,347 $-- $ 7,181 $ (197,537) $ (18,565)
Shares issued under Employee Stock
Option Plan note 7(a) 1,927,500 14,580 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under the Share
Purchase Plan note 7(b) 138,747 2,061 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under flow-through share
private placement note 6(b) 40,161 617 -- -- -- --
Units issued by public offering, net
of issue costs note 6(c) 13,800,000 167,246 15,732 -- -- --
Shares issued on the conversion of
Company's senior convertible notes 4,460 80 -- -- -- --
Shares issued under the Company's
dividend reinvestment plan 3,140 38 -- -- -- --
Net income for the year -- -- -- -- 4,023 --
Dividends declared ($0.03 per share) -- -- -- -- (2,509) --
Other comprehensive loss for the year -- -- -- -- -- (2,601)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALANCE DECEMBER 31,2002 83,636,861 $ 591,969 $15,732 $ 7,181 $ (196,023) $ (21,166)
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
See accompanying notes
PAGE (45)
C O N S O L I D A T E D S T A T E M E N T S
O F C A S H F L O W S
(thousands of US$,US GAAP basis) Years ended December 31, 2002 2001 2000
--------- ---------- ----------
O P E R A T I N G A C T I V I T I E S
Net income (loss) for the year $ 4,023 $ (5,718) $ (6,868)
Add (deduct) items not affecting cash:
Amortization 12,998 12,658 9,220
Future income and mining taxes 1,183 3,150 2,623
Unrealized gain on derivative contracts (1,680) (4,249) (1,456)
Amortization of deferred costs and other 3,840 6,583 3,011
--------- ---------- ----------
Cash flows from operations, before working capital changes 20,364 12,424 6,530
Changes in non-cash working capital balances
Metals awaiting settlement (9,669) (8,140) (10,105)
Income taxes recoverable (2,549) 429 (387)
Inventories (863) (1,332) (1,227)
Prepaid expenses and other (2,319) 999 (964)
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 8,327 (7,765) 7,790
Interest payable (179) (794) 950
--------- ---------- ----------
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities 13,112 (4,179) 2,587
--------- ---------- ----------
I N V E S T I N G A C T I V I T I E S
Additions to mining properties (64,836) (36,278) (69,640)
Additions to investments and other (1,773) (278) (46)
--------- ---------- ----------
Cash used in investing activities (66,609) (36,556) (69,686)
--------- ---------- ----------
F I N A N C I N G A C T I V I T I E S
Dividends paid (1,344) (1,114) (1,064)
Common shares issued 193,784 87,416 5,136
Warrants issued 15,732 -- --
Share and warrant issue costs (9,162) (5,209) (88)
Proceeds from long-term debt note 4 143,750 -- --
Financing costs (5,266) -- --
Repayment of the Company's senior
convertible debentures note 4 (122,169) -- --
Bank debt (30,000) (37,500) 52,500
Resale of the Company's own shares by
a subsidiary company and other -- 4,974 1,887
--------- ---------- ----------
Cash provided by financing activities 185,325 48,567 58,371
--------- ---------- ----------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (74) (558) 46
--------- ---------- ----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and
cash equivalents during the year 131,754 7,274 (8,682)
Cash and cash equivalents,beginning of year 21,180 13,906 22,588
--------- ---------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents,end of year $ 152,934 $ 21,180 $ 13,906
--------- ---------- ----------
--------- ---------- ----------
See note 4 and note 8 for supplemental cash flow information
PAGE (46)
N O T E S T O C O N S O L I D A T E D
F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S
(in thousands of US$,unless otherwise indicated)
1. M E T A L S A W A I T I N G S E T T L E M E N T
2002 2001
----------- ----------
Precious metals $ 2,856 $ 5,940
Concentrates awaiting settlement 26,893 14,140
----------- ----------
$ 29,749 $ 20,080
------------ ----------
------------ ----------
In 2002, precious metals (gold and silver) accounted for 87.7% (2001 - 79.8%;
2000 - 80.2%) of Agnico-Eagle's revenues from mining operations. Other byproduct
revenues in 2002 consisted of 12.3% zinc (2001 - 20.2%; 2000 - 19.1%) and nil
copper (2001 - nil; 2000 - 0.7%).
2. O T H E R A S S E T S
(A) PREPAID EXPENSES AND OTHER
2002 2001
---------- ----------
Available-for-sale securities (at market value) $ 3,886 $ 324
Prepaid expenses 824 --
Loans receivable 465 1,642
Federal and provincial sales taxes receivable 3,716 1,184
Other 1,134 672
---------- ----------
$ 10,025 $ 3,822
---------- ----------
---------- ----------
(B) OTHER ASSETS
2002 2001
---------- ----------
Deferred financing costs, less accumulated amortization of $1,313
(2001 - $756) $ 8,577 $ 5,546
Other 218 489
---------- ----------
$ 8,795 $ 6,035
---------- ----------
---------- ----------
Effective October 15, 2001, the Company acquired the remaining 50.5% of the
Mentor common shares not already owned by it through a court approved plan of
arrangement and continued its business as Agnico-Eagle Mines Limited. Under
this plan of arrangement, the Company issued 369,348 of its common shares in
exchange for 1,759,117 common shares of Mentor held by minority interest
shareholders for net proceeds of $1.7 million. In conjunction with the
arrangement, Mentor distributed its entire ownership of 4,441,148 common
shares of Sudbury Contact Mines Limited ("Sudbury Contact"), a
partially-owned subsidiary of Agnico-Eagle, to its shareholders as a return
of capital. This acquisition has been accounted for by the purchase method
and resulted in a decrease in minority interest of $1.7 million. The pro
forma results for 2001 and 2000, after giving effect to the acquisition
assuming that the transaction occurred on January 1, 2000, would not
materially differ from the actual results of the Company for the years ended
December 31,2001 and 2000.
3. M I N I N G P R O P E R T I E S
2002 2001
------------------------------ -------------------------------
ACCUMULATED NET BOOK Accumulated Net Book
COST AMORTIZATION VALUE Cost Amortization Value
------------------------------ -------------------------------
Mining properties $ 45,734 $ 8,335 $ 37,399 $ 45,156 $ 6,595 $ 38,561
Plant and equipment 244,659 63,348 181,311 201,798 57,229 144,569
Deferred expenditures 161,167 26,818 134,349 139,770 21,679 118,091
------------------------------ -------------------------------
$451,560 $ 98,501 $353,059 $386,724 $ 85,503 $301,221
------------------------------ -------------------------------
------------------------------ -------------------------------
PAGE (47)
N O T E S T O C O N S O L I D A T E D F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S
Included in exploration expense in 2001 is the Company's write-off of its
investment in the Tonkin Springs project of $1.6 million and the payment of
$0.7 million for environmental restoration costs. On March 1, 1999, Sudbury
Contact acquired a 60% interest in Tonkin Springs, an advanced exploration
property on the Battle Mountain-Cortez Gold Trend in Nevada, for $1.6
million. The remaining 40% ownership interest was owned and controlled by
U.S. Gold Corporation, an unrelated gold exploration company based in the
United States. Effective October 18, 2001, management determined that this
project was not viable under the current gold price environment and elected,
under the management and operating agreement with U.S. Gold Corporation, to
exit the Tonkin Springs project as the project manager and relinquish its
entire ownership interest in Tonkin Springs. The Company's obligation with
respect to environmental and regulatory requirements was fully satisfied by
the payment of $0.5 million in additional environmental bonding and $0.2
million to an independent consultant under an escrow agreement for future
environmental restoration work.
The Company's El Coco property ("El Coco"), located adjacent to and
immediately east of the Company's LaRonde Mine, is subject to a royalty
interest payable to Barrick Gold Corporation. The El Coco royalty, on
production from an area that extends 500 metres from the property boundary
with the LaRonde Mine, consists of a 50% net profits interest ("NPI"), which
is defined as net revenues from the sale of minerals produced from the
property less the pro-rated portion of the production costs and allowable
direct and common capital expenditures related to the exploration and
development of the property. The remaining area of the El Coco property is
subject to a 4% net smelter return royalty (defined as gross revenues from
the sales of minerals less applicable refining, selling and delivery costs
and applicable taxes). During 2002,the Company made NPI royalty payments of
$12.0 million (2001 - $5.4 million;2000 nil).
4 . L O N G - T E R M D E B T
2002 2001
-------- --------
Convertible subordinated debentures due February 15,2012 note 4(a) $143,750 $ --
Senior convertible notes due January 27, 2004 note 4(a) -- 121,081
Revolving credit facility note 4(b) -- 30,000
-------- --------
$143,750 $151,081
-------- --------
-------- --------
(A) CONVERTIBLE SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES
On February 15, 2002, Agnico-Eagle issued $143.8 million aggregate principal
amount of convertible subordinated debentures due February 15, 2012 for net
proceeds of $138.5 million after deducting underwriting commissions of $4.3
million. Other costs of issuing the debentures totaled $1.0 million. The
debentures bear interest of 4.50% per annum on the principal amount payable
in cash semi-annually. The debentures are convertible into common shares of
Agnico-Eagle at the option of the holder, at any time on or prior to
maturity, at a rate of 71.429 common shares per $1,000 principal amount. The
debentures are redeemable by Agnico-Eagle, in whole or in part, at any time
on or after February 15, 2006 at a redemption price equal to par plus accrued
and unpaid interest. The Company may redeem the debentures in cash or, at the
option of the Company, by delivering freely tradable common shares.
On February 15, 2002, the entire amount of the Company's senior convertible
notes due January 27, 2004 was called for redemption.
(B) REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY
The revolving credit facility (the "Facility") with a syndicate of banks
provides the Company with up to $125 million of revolving debt. Under the terms
of the Facility, which is primarily secured by a first charge on the Company's
LaRonde Mine and the El Coco property, an initial tranche of $100 million is
currently available and a second tranche of $25 million will also be made
available when the LaRonde Mine expansion to 7,000 tons of ore per day is
completed. The Facility is fully revolving until the end of 2004, at which time
the drawn portion of the Facility will begin to amortize at annual rates of 25%,
32.5%, 20%, 12.5% and 10% in the years 2004 to 2008, respectively. The interest
rate under the Facility currently is LIBOR plus 2.25% per annum and a standby
fee of 1% per annum on any undrawn portion of the Facility.
PAGE (48)
<Page>
For the year ended December 31, 2002, interest expense was $7.3 million
(2001 - $12.9 million; 2000 - $5.9 million) of which cash payments were $24.4
million (2001 - $10.4 million; 2000 - $4.4 million). Approximately $19
million of the cash interest payments in 2002 were in connection with the
redemption of the Company's January 27, 2004 senior convertible notes. In
2002, cash interest on the Facility of $2.3 million (2001 - nil;2000 -$5.2
million) was capitalized in construction in progress. Weighted average
interest rate for the year ended December 31, 2002 was 7.6% (2001 - 6.1%;
2000 - 7.6%).
5 . R E C L A M A T I O N P R O V I S I O N A N D O T H E R
L I A B I L I T I E S
Reclamation provision and other liabilities consist of the following:
2002 2001
------- --------
Reclamation and closure costs note 5(a) $ 2,066 $ 2,126
Pension benefits note 5(b) 2,977 1,929
------- --------
$ 5,043 $ 4,055
------- --------
------- --------
(A) RECLAMATION AND CLOSURE COSTS
Under mine closure plans submitted to the Minister of Natural Resources in
Quebec, the estimated current reclamation costs for the LaRonde Mine are
approximately $13.8 million. These reclamation estimates are based on current
legislation and there can be no assurance that the Minister of Natural Resources
will not impose additional reclamation obligations with higher costs. All of the
accrued reclamation and closure costs are long-term in nature and thus no
portion of these costs has been reclassified to current liabilities.
Effective January 1, 2003, the Company adopted the provisions of FAS 143
related to asset retirement obligations. The initial adoption of FAS 143 will
negatively impact income in the first quarter of 2003 as the Company records a
$1.6 million charge representing the cumulative effect of adopting this
standard.
(B) PENSION BENEFITS
Effective July 1, 1997, Agnico-Eagle's defined benefit pension plan for active
employees was converted to a defined contribution plan. Employees retired prior
to that date remain in the defined benefit pension plan. In addition,
Agnico-Eagle also provides a non-registered executive supplementary defined
benefit plan for certain senior officers. The funded status of Agnico-Eagle's
defined benefit employees' pension plan is based on an actuarial valuation as of
December 31,1999 and projected to December 31, 2002. The funded status of the
executive supplementary defined benefit plan is based on an actuarial valuation
as of July 1, 2002 and is projected to December 31, 2002. The components of
Agnico-Eagle's defined benefit expense are as follows:
2002 2001 2000
------- ------- -------
Service cost - benefits earned during the year $ 210 $ 194 $ 221
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 348 312 330
Return on plan assets (125) (162) (216)
Amortization of net transition asset,
past service liability and net experience gains (138) 52 54
------- ------- -------
Net pension plan expense $ 295 $ 396 $ 389
------- ------- -------
------- ------- -------
Agnico-Eagle contributes 5% of its payroll expense to a defined contribution
plan. The expense in 2002 was $1.1 million (2001 - $0.8 million; 2000 - $0.7
million).
Assets of the defined benefit plan are comprised of pooled Canadian and US
equity funds and pooled bond funds. The funded status of the defined benefit
employees'pension plan ("Employees") and the executives' retirement plan
("Executives") for 2002 and 2001 are as follows:
PAGE (49)
N O T E S T O C O N S O L I D A T E D F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S
2002 2001
---------------------- ------------------------
EMPLOYEES EXECUTIVES Employees Executives
R E C O N C I L I A T I O N O F T H E
M A R K E T V A L U E O F P L A N A S S E T S
Fair value of plan assets,beginning of year $ 1,704 $ 176 $ 2,702 $ 148
Agnico-Eagle's contribution -- 44 -- 75
Actual return on plan assets (31) -- 68 --
Benefit payments (111) (22) (177) (37)
Transfer to defined contribution plan -- -- (755) --
Effect of exchange rate changes 14 2 (134) (10)
---------------------- ------------------------
Fair value of plan assets,end of year $ 1,576 $ 200 $ 1,704 $ 176
---------------------- ------------------------
---------------------- ------------------------
R E C O N C I L I A T I O N O F P R O J E C T E D
P E N S I O N B E N E F I T O B L I G A T I O N
Benefit obligation,beginning of year $ 1,439 $ 3,241 $ 1,571 $ 3,201
Service costs -- 210 -- 194
Interest costs 95 253 100 212
Actuarial losses (gains) 34 377 36 (135)
Benefit payments (111) (22) (177) (37)
Effect of exchange rate changes 11 22 (91) (194)
---------------------- ------------------------
Benefit obligation,end of year $ 1,468 $ 4,081 $ 1,439 $ 3,241
---------------------- ------------------------
Excess (deficiency) of plan assets
over benefit obligation $ 108 $(3,881) $ 265 $(3,065)
---------------------- ------------------------
---------------------- ------------------------
Comprised of:
Unamortized transition asset (liability) $ 823 $(1,568) $ 953 $(1,742)
Unamortized net experience gain (loss) (324) (242) (134) 131
Accrued liabilities (391) (2,071) (554) (1,454)
---------------------- ------------------------
$ 108 $(3,881) $ 265 $(3,065)
---------------------- ------------------------
---------------------- ------------------------
Discount rate (i) 6.50% 6.50% 6.75% 6.75%
Rate of return 7.50% N.A. 7.50% n.a.
Rate of salary increase N.A. 3.0% n.a. 3.0%
Estimated average remaining service life
for the Employees plan (in years) 8.0 9.0(ii) 8.0 10.6(ii)
---------------------- ------------------------
Notes:
(i) Discount rates used for the Executives plan are after-tax rates.
(ii)Estimated average remaining service life for the Executives plan was
developed for individual senior officers.
6. S H A R E H O L D E R S ' E Q U I T Y
(A) COMMON SHARES
The Company's common shares are covered by a Shareholder Rights Plan whereby
each shareholder, in the event of certain takeover bids or other
change-in-control transactions involving the acquisition of 20% or more of
Agnico-Eagle's outstanding voting shares, has the right ("Rights") to purchase
from Agnico-Eagle for an exercise price of C$80.00 that number of shares of
Agnico-Eagle having an aggregate market price equal to twice the exercise price.
Until such time as a triggering bid for control occurs, the Rights trade
together with the existing common shares and will expire on May 10, 2009.
The Company has reserved for issuance 10,267,919 common shares in the event
that the senior convertible debentures are converted into common shares and
6,900,000 common shares in the event that the warrants are exercised.
In 2002 the Company declared dividends on its common shares of $0.03 per
share (2001 - $0.02 per share; 2000 - $0.02 per share). Under the terms of the
Company's revolving credit facility, the Company's dividend payments were
restricted to an aggregate of $3 million per year. Subsequent to December
31, 2002, the Company negotiated changes to the original terms resulting in an
increase to the dividend restriction amount to $16 million per year.
PAGE (50)
(B) FLOW-THROUGH SHARE PRIVATE PLACEMENTS
In 2002, Agnico-Eagle issued 40,161 (2001 - 200,000; 2000 - 475,000) common
shares under a flow-through share private placement for proceeds of $0.6 million
(2001 - $2.5 million; 2000 - $2.1) net of share issue costs. Agnico-Eagle has
agreed to use such proceeds for the purpose of incurring Canadian exploration
expenditures in connection with its 2003 exploration activities. In 2002, the
Company renounced to its investors C$1.0 million (2001 - C$4.0 million; 2000 -
C$5.5 million) of such expenses for income tax purposes.
(C) PUBLIC OFFERING
In 2002, Agnico-Eagle issued 13,800,000 units, each consisting of one common
share and one-half warrant, at $13.90 per unit for net proceeds of $182.9
million, after deducting share issue costs of $9.1 million (no related income
tax effect). $167.2 million of the net proceeds was allocated to common
shares and the remaining $15.7 million was allocated to the warrants. Each
whole warrant entitles the holder to purchase one common share at a price of
$19.00, subject to certain adjustments summarized in the prospectus. Warrants
are exercisable at any time prior to November 14, 2007, after which the
warrants will expire and be of no value. The Company will inform warrant
holders, through a press release, of pending expiry at least 90 days prior to
the expiry date. If all outstanding warrants are exercised, the Company would
issue an additional 6,900,000 common shares.
In 2001, Agnico-Eagle issued 10,350,000 common shares at $7.90 per share
for net proceeds of $76.2 million, after deducting share issue costs of $5.6
million (no related income tax effect).
(D) ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS
The opening balance in accumulated other comprehensive loss in 2000 of $(15.9)
million resulted from Agnico-Eagle adopting the US dollar as its principal
currency of measurement. Prior to this change, the Canadian dollar had been used
as the reporting currency. Prior period's consolidated financial statements were
translated into US dollars by the current rate method using the year end or the
annual average exchange rate where appropriate. This translation approach was
applied from January 1, 1994. This translation gave rise to a deficit in the
cumulative translation adjustment account within accumulated other comprehensive
loss as at December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000.
Effective January 1, 2001, the Company prospectively adopted the new
accounting recommendations made under FAS 133 and FAS 137 on accounting for
derivative financial instruments and hedging. Upon the adoption of FAS 133, the
Company recorded a cumulative adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive loss
of $2.8 million. The Company has designated its gold put contracts as cash flow
hedges and as such, unrealized gains and losses ($5.5 million loss in 2002) on
these contracts are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss.
(E) NET INCOME (LOSS) PER SHARE
The following table provides the weighted average number of common shares used
in the calculation of basic and diluted income (loss) per share:
2002 2001 2000
---------- ---------- ----------
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding - basic 70,821,081 61,333,630 54,446,693
Add: Dilutive impact of employee stock options 810,182 -- --
---------- ---------- ----------
Weighted average number of common shares
outstanding - diluted 71,631,263 61,333,630 54,446,693
---------- ---------- ----------
---------- ---------- ----------
In 2001 and 2000, the employee stock options and convertible debentures were
anti-dilutive and thus were not included in the calculation of diluted weighted
average number of common shares outstanding. In 2002, both the convertible
debentures and warrants were anti-dilutive and thus were excluded from the
calculation of diluted income (loss) per share.
PAGE (51)
N O T E S T O C O N S O L I D A T E D F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S
7 . S T O C K - B A S E D C O M P E N S A T I O N
(A) EMPLOYEE STOCK OPTION PLAN ("ESOP")
The Company's ESOP provides for the granting of options to
directors, officers, employees and service providers to purchase common
shares. Under this plan, options are granted at the fair market value of the
underlying shares on the date of grant. The number of shares subject to option
for any one person may not exceed 5% of the Company's common shares issued and
outstanding at the date of grant.
Up to May 31, 2001, the number of common shares reserved for issuance
under the ESOP was 6,000,000 and options granted under the ESOP had a maximum
term of ten years. On April 24, 2001, the Compensation Committee of the Board
of Directors adopted a policy pursuant to which options granted after that
date shall have a maximum term of five years. On May 31, 2001, the
shareholders approved a resolution to increase the number of common shares
reserved for issuance under the ESOP by 2,000,000 to 8,000,000.
Of the 1,358,500 options granted under the ESOP in 2002, 1,299,500
options granted vest immediately and expire in the year 2007. The remaining
options vest over periods ranging from two to five years and expire between
2007 and 2012. Of the options granted in 2002, 1,303,500 vest immediately and
are exercisable on the date of grant. The additional 55,000 options are
exercisable on each anniversary of the grant with 40,000 exercisable in 2003
and 15,000 in 2004. Of the total options granted in 2001, 181,250 have a
vesting period of four years, in which 20% or 36,250 vest immediately and are
exercisable on the date of the grant, while the remaining 80% or 145,000
options are exercisable in equal installments, on each anniversary date of
the grant, over a four-year term. The remaining 10,000 options granted in
2001 were granted for a term of five years and are exercisable on the date of
grant.
The following summary sets out the activity with respect to Agnico-Eagle's
outstanding stock options:
2002 2001 2000
---------------------------- ---------------------------- -----------------------
WEIGHTED AVERAGE Weighted average Weighted average
OPTIONS EXERCISE PRICE Options exercise price Options exercise price
--------------------- -----------------------------------------------------
Outstanding,
beginning of year 3,660,200 C$12.04 3,895,050 C$11.73 2,790,750 C$12.28
Granted 1,358,500 17.07 191,250 9.49 1,122,000 10.33
Exercised (1,927,500) 11.82 (426,100) 8.31 (13,700) 7.29
Cancelled (30,850) 12.06 - - (4,000) 17.75
---------------------- -----------------------------------------------------
Outstanding,end of year 3,060,350 C$14.47 3,660,200 C$12.04 3,895,050 C$11.73
---------------------- -----------------------------------------------------
---------------------- -----------------------------------------------------
Options exercisable at
end of year 2,682,500 3,049,300 2,902,050
---------------------- -----------------------------------------------------
---------------------- -----------------------------------------------------
The following table summarizes information about Agnico-Eagle's stock options
outstanding at December 31, 2002:
Options outstanding Options exercisable
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average
Range of Number remaining Weighted average Number Weighted average
exercise prices outstanding contractual life exercise price exercisable exercise price
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C$ 6.55 - C$ 9.30 357,750 6.1 years C$ 8.01 258,700 C$ 8.01
C$10.20 - C$15.75 882,550 6.9 years C$10.54 658,750 C$10.59
C$15.93 - C$18.75 1,559,050 3.0 years C$16.80 1,559,050 C$16.80
C$21.72 - C$25.60 261,000 4.2 years C$22.64 206,000 C$22.86
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C$ 6.55 - C$24.87 3,060,350 4.6 years C$14.47 2,682,500 C$14.94
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Company has reserved for issuance 3,060,350 common shares in the event that
these options are exercised.
The number of un-optioned shares available for granting of options as at
December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000 was 789,910, 2,117,560, and 308,810,
respectively.
The Company accounts for its stock option grants based on the
recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board Opinion
No. 25 and related interpretations. The application of Opinion No. 25 results in
no compensation expense being recorded in Agnico-Eagle's circumstances as all
options granted had an
PAGE (52)
exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying stock on the date of
grant. The following table illustrates the effect on net income (loss) and net
income (loss) per share as if the Company had applied the fair value recognition
provisions of FAS 123 to account for its stock option grants.
2002 2001 2000
------- ------- --------
Net income (loss) for the year, as reported $ 4,023 $(5,718) $(6,868)
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation
determined under fair value based method for all awards (2,621) (624) (2,323)
------- ------- --------
Pro forma net income (loss) $ 1,402 $(6,342) $(9,191)
------- ------- --------
------- ------- --------
Net income (loss) per share:
Basic and diluted,as reported $ 0.06 $ (0.09) $ (0.12)
Basic and diluted,pro-forma $ 0.02 $ (0.10) $ (0.17)
------- ------- --------
Agnico-Eagle estimated the fair value of options under the Black-Scholes
option-pricing model and the following weighted average assumptions:
2002 2001 2000
------- ------- --------
Risk free interest rate 2.6% 5.5% 6.5%
Expected life of options (in years) 2.1 7.5 8.5
Expected volatility of Agnico-Eagle's share price 36.9% 46.2% 46.3%
Expected dividend yield 0.19% 0.46% 0.46%
The Black-Scholes option-pricing model was developed for use in estimating the
fair value of traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully
transferable. As the Company's employee stock options have characteristics
significantly different from those of traded options, and because changes in the
subjective input assumptions, such as expected stock market price volatility,
can materially affect the fair value estimate, in management's opinion, the
existing pricing models do not necessarily provide a reliable single measure of
the fair value of its employee stock options.
(B) INCENTIVE SHARE PURCHASE PLAN
On June 26, 1997, the shareholders approved an Incentive Share Purchase Plan
(the "Purchase Plan") to encourage directors, officers and employees
("Participants") to purchase Agnico-Eagle's common shares at market values.
Under the Purchase Plan, eligible employees may contribute up to 10% of
their basic annual salaries and directors may contribute a maximum of C$7,500.
For both employees and directors, Agnico-Eagle contributes an amount equal to
50% of each Participant's contribution.
In 2002, 138,747 common shares were issued under the Purchase Plan (2001
- -209,826; 2000 - 248,769) for proceeds of $2.1 million (2001 - $1.8 million;
2000 - $1.5 million). In June 2002, shareholders approved an increase in the
maximum amount of shares reserved for issuance under the Purchase Plan to
2,500,000 from 1,000,000. Agnico-Eagle has reserved for issuance 1,567,514
common shares (2001 -206,261;2000 - 413,087) under the Purchase Plan.
8. F U T U R E I N C O M E A N D M I N I N G T A X E S
Income and mining taxes expense (recovery) is made up of the following
components:
2002 2001 2000
----------- --------- ---------
Current provision
Provincial mining duties $ (2,779) $(2,201) $(1,988)
----------- --------- ---------
Future provision
Federal income taxes -- 1,405 (1,640)
Provincial income taxes -- 332 (983)
Provincial mining duties 2,418 2,603 --
----------- --------- ---------
2,418 4,340 (2,623)
----------- --------- ---------
$ (361) $ 2,139 $(4,611)
----------- --------- ---------
----------- --------- ---------
PAGE (53)
N O T E S T O C O N S O L I D A T E D F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S
Cash income and mining taxes recovered in 2002 was $0.8 million (2001 -
$0.6; 2000 - $1.8 million).
Future income and mining taxes expense (recovery) has been provided on
temporary differences which consist of the following:
2002 2001 2000
---------- ---------- -----------
Amortization $ (587) $ (265) $(1,848)
Exploration and development 3,152 2,676 1,004
Other (147) 1,929 (1,779)
---------- ---------- -----------
$ 2,418 $ 4,340 $(2,623)
---------- ---------- -----------
---------- ---------- -----------
The income and mining taxes expense (recovery) is different from the amount that
would have been computed by applying the Canadian statutory income tax rate as a
result of the following:
2002 2001 2000
------ ------ ------
Combined federal and composite provincial tax rates 39.9% (41.3)% (41.0)%
Increase (decrease) in taxes resulting from:
Provincial mining duties (7.8) 14.5 (18.1)
Resource allowances (101.7) (25.2) (4.2)
Non-deductible expenses 6.5 24.6 4.1
Temporary differences for which no benefit was recognized 78.7 83.0 6.2
Unrecognized benefit of non-capital losses (23.4) 19.3 1.4
------ ------ ------
Actual rate as a percentage of pre-tax loss (7.8)% 74.9% (51.6)%
------ ------ ------
------ ------ ------
Agnico-Eagle and its subsidiaries have non-capital tax loss carryforwards of
approximately C$37 million, which may be carried forward to reduce future
years' taxable income. These losses expire as follows:
- ----------------------
2004 C$ 5,171
2005 8,188
2006 17,487
2007 6,084
2008 46
- ----------------------
C$ 36,976
- ----------------------
- ----------------------
Agnico-Eagle and its subsidiaries have approximately C$325 million of cumulative
Canadian exploration and development expenses available indefinitely to reduce
future years' taxable income.
As at December 31, 2002 and 2001, Agnico-Eagle's future tax assets and
liabilities are as follows:
2002 2001
---------------------- ----------------------
ASSETS LIABILITIES Assets Liabilities
---------------------- ----------------------
Non-current:
Income taxes:
Plant and equipment $ 8,563 $ -- $ 5,673 $ --
Deferred expenditures 14,200 -- 13,854 --
Net operating and capital loss carry-forwards 11,126 -- 26,897 --
Other 4,480 -- 5,887 --
Valuation allowance (14,479) -- (28,421) --
---------------------- ----------------------
Total non-current $ 23,890 $ -- $ 23,890 $ --
---------------------- ----------------------
Mining duties:
Plant and equipment $ 360 $ 6,374 $ 428 $ 6,210
Deferred expenditures 3,869 14,897 6,961 12,642
Other -- (382) 11 (535)
Valuation allowance (4,229) -- (7,400) --
---------------------- ----------------------
Total non-current $ -- $ 20,889 $ -- $ 18,317
---------------------- ----------------------
---------------------- ----------------------
Non-current future income and
mining tax assets and liabilities $ 23,890 $ 20,889 $ 23,890 $ 18,317
---------------------- ----------------------
---------------------- ----------------------
PAGE (54)
At January 1, 2002, the valuation allowance, a reserve against future income and
mining tax assets recorded in the accounts, was $35.8 million. In 2002, the
valuation allowance decreased by $17.1 million primarily as a result of the
utilization of certain future tax assets for which a reserve had been made.
9 . F I N A N C I A L I N S T R U M E N T S
Agnico-Eagle enters into financial instruments with a number of financial
institutions in order to hedge underlying revenue and cost exposures arising
from commodity prices, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates.
Financial instruments which subject Agnico-Eagle to market risk and
concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and short-term
investments and option contracts for currencies, interest rates and precious and
base metals. Agnico-Eagle places its cash and short-term investments in high
quality securities issued by government agencies, financial institutions and
major corporations and limits the amount of credit exposure by diversifying its
holdings.
Agnico-Eagle's risk management policy attempts to mitigate the risks
associated with fluctuating metal prices and foreign exchange rates.
Agnico-Eagle uses over-the-counter put and call option metals and foreign
exchange contracts to hedge its net revenues from mining operations and costs
of production, respectively. These instruments are straight forward contracts
and involve little complexity. Agnico-Eagle is exposed to credit risk in the
event of non-performance by counterparties in connection with its currency
and metal option contracts. Agnico-Eagle does not obtain any security to
support financial instruments subject to credit risk, but mitigates the risk
by dealing with a diverse group of creditworthy counterparties and,
accordingly, does not anticipate loss for non-performance. The Company
continually monitors the market risk of its hedging activities.
GOLD PUT OPTION CONTRACTS
Agnico-Eagle's portfolio of put option contracts was entered into to establish a
minimum price which the Company will receive from the sale of its gold
production. The contracts expire monthly based on planned production
volumes. These instruments have been designated as hedges under the criteria
established by FAS 133 and FAS 137 on accounting for derivative financial
instruments and hedging. At December 31, 2001, these option contracts did not
qualify as a designated hedge under FAS 133. Accordingly, changes in fair value
were recognized as part of the Company's net loss. On January 1, 2002, the
Company implemented a new treasury management system that complies with the new
documentation requirements of FAS 133. As a result, these option contracts now
qualify for hedge accounting. In 2002, changes in the fair value of these option
contracts were recognized as part of accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Gains and losses on put option contracts are reclassified from
accumulated other comprehensive loss into income in the same period the
forecasted transaction affects income. The Company does not expect to
reclassify any amounts into income from accumulated other comprehensive loss
in 2003.
SILVER AND BASE METAL OPTION CONTRACTS
Agnico-Eagle's silver and base metal derivatives portfolio was entered into
to establish price ranges for the Company's byproduct metals in order to
eliminate the negative effects of price fluctuations. The contracts expire
monthly based on planned production volumes. None of these instruments
qualify for hedge accounting under FAS 133 and therefore changes in the fair
value of the portfolio are recognized as part of net income (loss) in the
line item in which the hedged item is recorded.
PAGE (55)
NO T E S T O C O N S O L I D A T E D F I N A N C I A L S T A T E M E N T S
As at December 31, 2002, Agnico-Eagle's derivative financial instruments
relating to metals consisted of the following:
Expected Maturity
----------------------------------------------------
2003 2004 2005 2006 2007
----------------------------------------------------
G O L D
Put options purchased
Amount hedged (ounces) -- 136,644 190,020 152,340 131,280
Average price ($/ounce) -- $ 260 $ 260 $ 260 $ 260
S I L V E R
Call options sold
Amount hedged (ounces in 000s) 1,956 2,158 2,060 -- --
Average price ($/ounce) $ 5.50 $ 5.50 $ 5.50 -- --
Call options purchased
Amount hedged (ounces in 000s) 1,956 2,158 2,060 -- --
Average price ($/ounce) $ 7.00 $ 7.00 $ 7.00 -- --
C O P P E R
Call options sold
Amount hedged (lbs. in 000s) 13,651 13,757 13,651 -- --
Average price ($/lb.) $ 0.81 $ 0.81 $ 0.81 -- --
Call options purchased
Amount hedged (lbs. in 000s) 13,651 13,757 13,651 -- --
Average price ($/lb.) $ 1.00 $ 1.00 $ 1.00 -- --
----------------------------------------------------
Subsequent to year end,the entire silver and copper hedge positions were unwound
at a net cost of nil.
FOREIGN CURRENCY HEDGING PROGRAM
Agnico-Eagle generates almost all of its revenues in US dollars. The
Company's LaRonde Mine and Exploration Division both have Canadian dollar
requirements for capital and operating expenditures. Agnico-Eagle entered
into a series of put and call option contracts to hedge a monthly sum of
Canadian dollar expenditures based on forecasted Canadian dollar
requirements. None of these instruments qualify for hedge accounting under
FAS 133 and therefore changes in the fair value of the portfolio are
recognized as either part of net income (loss) in the line item in which the
hedged item is recorded or as part of the capitalized cost of assets
purchased.
At December 31, 2002, Agnico-Eagle's consolidated foreign-currency hedging
program consisted of the following:
Expected Maturity
-------------------------------------------------------------
2003 2004 2005 2006
-------------------------------------------------------------
U S $ C A L L O P T I O N S S O L D
Amount (thousands) $ 54,000 $ 48,000 $ 12,000 $ 12,000
US$/C$ weighted average exchange rate 1.5995 1.5420 1.6050 1.6475
U S $ P U T O P T I O N S P U R C H A S E D
Amount (thousands) $ 54,000 $ 48,000 $ 12,000 $ 12,000
US$/C$ weighted average exchange rate 1.5285 1.5025 1.5000 1.5600
U S $ P U T O P T I O N S S O L D
Amount (thousands) $ - $ 12,000 $ 12,000 $ -
US$/C$ weighted average exchange rate - 1.3500 1.3700 -
-------------------------------------------------------------
PAGE (56)
At December 31, 2002, the aggregate unrealized gain of the net market value
of Agnico-Eagle's metals derivative position amounted to nil (2001 - $4.6
million). The Company's unrealized deficit on its foreign exchange hedge
position at December 31, 2002 was $3.5 million (2001 - $4.3 million). Since
the Company uses only over-the-counter instruments, the fair value of
individual hedging instruments is based on readily available market values.
Agnico-Eagle's exposure to interest rate risk at December 31, 2002 relates
to its short-term investments of $144.7 million (2001 - $19.2 million). The
Company's short-term investments have a fixed weighted average interest rate of
2.29% (2001 - 3.8%) for a period of 37 days (2001 - 28 days).
In addition, Agnico-Eagle has outstanding letters of credit amounting to
C$11.8 million relating to Executives'Plan (2001 - C$8.0 million) for which fees
vary up to 2.25% per annum.
The fair values of Agnico-Eagle's current financial assets and liabilities
approximate their carrying values as at December 31, 2002. The fair value of
Agnico-Eagle's senior convertible debentures at December 31, 2002 is $178.3
million (2001 - $113.7 million).
10 . O T H E R F I N A N C I A L I N F O R M A T I O N
2002 2001 2000
------ ------ ------
Wages payable $ 775 $ 923 $ 720
------ ------- ------
Accrued liabilities $1,335 $1,889 $2,281
------ ------- ------
PAGE (57)
N O T E S O N M I N E R A L R E S E R V E S
A N D R E S O U R C E S
1.The Company's mineral reserves and resources on pages 14 and 15 are
calculated as of December 31, 2002 in accordance with National Instrument
43-101, as required by Canadian securities authorities. An appropriate
cut-off grade has been used based on long-term economic assumptions of:
gold, $300/oz.; silver $5.00/oz.; zinc $0.50/lb.; and a US/Canadian dollar
exchange rate of C$1.50. Some drilling information received subsequent to
year end has been used in the estimate. The estimate incorporates current
and/or expected mine plans, cost levels and metal recoveries. The qualified
person responsible for the estimate is Marc H. Legault, P. Eng., Manager,
Project Evaluations of Agnico-Eagle.
2.A mineral reserve is that part of a measured and indicated resource that has
been demonstrated as economically mineable by at least a preliminary
feasibility study. This study must include adequate information on
mining, processing, metallurgical, economic and other relevant factors that
demonstrate, at the time of reporting, economic extraction can be justified. A
reserve includes mining dilution and allows for losses that may occur when the
material is mined. Quantity, grade, densities, shape, and physical
characteristics of a reserve are so well established that they can be
estimated with confidence, or a level of confidence, sufficient to allow the
appropriate application of technical and economic parameters to support
production planning and evaluation of the economic viability of the deposit.
3.A mineral resource is a concentration of mineralization in such quantity
and grade that it has reasonable prospects for economic extraction. The
location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a
mineral resource are known, estimated or interpreted from specific
geological evidence and knowledge. A measured and indicated resource is
that part of a mineral resource that can be estimated with confidence, or a
level of confidence, sufficient to allow the appropriate application of
technical and economic parameters to support mine planning and evaluation
of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed
and reliable exploration and test information gathered through appropriate
techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and
drill holes that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade
continuity to be reasonably assumed. An inferred mineral resource is that
part of a resource for which quantity and grade can be estimated and
reasonably assumed on the basis of geological evidence. The inferred
estimate is based on more limited information and sampling gathered through
appropriate techniques. Mineral resources that are not mineral reserves do
not have demonstrated economic viability.
4.The verification, quality assurance and quality control procedures and a
discussion of the factors that may materially affect reserve and resource
estimates may be found in the 2002 Ore Reserve Report on the Company website's
SEDAR section at www.agnico-eagle.com.
PAGE (58)
D I R E C T O R S A N D O F F I C E R S
D I R E C T O R S
JAMES D. NASSO (1) DR. ALAN GREEN (2) (3) ANTON ADAMCIK
Chairman, Dentist Vice-President,
Agnico-Eagle Environment
Mines Limited BERNARD KRAFT (1) (3)
Chartered Accountant DON ALLAN
SEAN BOYD Vice-President,
President and MEL LEIDERMAN (1) Corporate Development
Chief Executive Officer, Chartered Accountant
Agnico-Eagle ALAIN BLACKBURN
Mines Limited ERNEST SHERIFF (2) Vice-President,
Prospector Exploration
JOHN T. CLEMENT, Q.C.
Vice-President, O F F I C E R S JOHN T. CLEMENT, Q.C.
Agnico-Eagle SEAN BOYD Vice-President
Mines Limited President and
Chief Executive Officer BARRY LANDEN
LEANNE M. BAKER Vice-President,
Mining Industry Consultant EBE SCHERKUS Corporate Affairs
Executive Vice-President and
DOUGLAS R. BEAUMONT (2) (3) Chief Operating Officer
Professional Engineer
DAVID GAROFALO
Vice-President, Finance and
Chief Financial Officer
(1) Member of Audit Committee
(2) Member of Corporate Governance Committee
(3) Member of Compensation Committee
K E Y P E R S O N N E L
H E A D O F F I C E L A R O N D E
BEN AU PAUL HENRI GIRARD CLAUDE LEVEILLEE PHILIPPE AUTHIER
Director, Mine Manager Human Resources Mechanical Superintendent
Internal Audit and
Administration DANIEL RACINE JEAN BASTIEN RICHARD GRENIER
Assistant Mine Manager Chief Engineer Chief Electrician
MARC LEGAULT
Manager, JEAN ROBITAILLE LOUISE GRONDIN C A N A D I A N
Project Evaluation Manager of Metallurgy Environmental E X P L O R AT I O N
and Concentrate Marketing Superintendent GRAHAM LONG
CLAUDIO MANCUSO Manager
Manager, MICHEL LECLERC GUY GOSSELIN
Financial Reporting Mine Superintendent Chief Geologist U . S . E X P L O R A T I O N
MARK ABRAMS
MARCEL BORDELEAU DENIS COUTURE Manager
Chief Accountant Mill Superintendent
PAGE (59)
C O R P O R A T E I N F O R M A T I O N
E X E C U T I V E A N D R E G I S T R A R A N D S T O C K A N N U A L M E E T I N G
R E G I S T E R E D O F F I C E T R A N S F E R A G E N T O F S H A R E H O L D E R S
145 King Street East Questions on stock transfer, June 19, 2003, 10:30 a.m.
Suite 500 change of address, lost certificates Toronto Hilton
Toronto, ON M5C 2Y7 and dividends should be sent to: Toronto 1 Room
Tel: 416 947 1212 145 Richmond Street West
Fax: 416 367 4681 Computershare Investor Services Toronto, Ontario, Canada
100 University Avenue
M I N E O F F I C E - 9th Floor I N F O R M A T I O N O N G O L D
L A R O N D E D I V I S I O N Toronto, ON M5J 2Y1 For more information on gold
20 Rue 395 Tel: 1 800 564 6253 you can visit the World Gold
Cadillac, QC J0Y 1C0 E-mail: Council's website at
Tel: 819 759 3644 caregistryinfo@computershare.com www.gold.org
Fax: 819 759 3641
I N V E S T O R C O N T A C T M I N I N G G L O S S A R Y
E X P L O R A T I O N Barry Landen For a glossary of mining terms
D I V I S I O N S C A N A D A Vice-President, and easy to understand explana-
765 Chemin de la Mine Goldex Corporate Affairs tions of mining operations
C.P. 87 Tel: 416 947 1212 and exploration please visit
Val d'Or, QC J9P 4N9 Fax: 416 367 4681 www.northernminer.com.
Tel: 819 874 5980 E-mail:
Fax: 819 874 3318 blanden@agnico-eagle.com Pour obtenir un exemplaire de la
version francaise de ce rapport,
veuillez ecrire au Chef des finances,
U N I T E D S T A T E S S T O C K E X C H A N G E MINES AGNICO-EAGLE LIMITEE
4757 Caughlin Parkway L I S T I N G S
Reno, Nevada 89509 USA New York Stock Exchange Bureau 500
Tel: 775 828 6070 Trading symbol: AEM 145 King Street East
Fax: 775 828 6089 Toronto (Ontario) M5C 2Y7
The Toronto Stock Exchange
A U D I T O R S Trading symbol: AGE
Ernst & Young LLP Convertible Notes
222 Bay Street due 2012 AGE.db.u
Toronto, ON M5K 1J7 Agnico-Eagle Warrants
AGE.WT.U
F O R M 2 0 - F expire November 2007
A copy of the Company's
Annual Report on Form 20-F NASDAQ
filed with the U.S. Securities Agnico-Eagle Warrants
and Exchange Commission AEMLW
is available from the Company. expire November 2007
Alternatively, please download
it from our website
www.agnico-eagle.com.
D I V I D E N D R E I N V E S T M E N T P L A N ( D R I P )
Agnico-Eagle welcomes you to participate in our Dividend Reinvestment Plan.
Please visit us at www.agnico-eagle.com for further details.
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STRENGTH IN GOLD
o Unhedged
o A track record of growth
o A large orebody to create future growth
o Discoveries on our regional land position
o Low-cost production
o Experienced people
o Quebec - a mining-friendly province
o A well-funded balance sheet
AGNICO-EAGLE MINES LIMITED
145 King Street East, Suite 500
Toronto, On M5C 2Y7 Canada
Tel: 416 947 1212
Fax: 416 367 4681
Web: www.agnico-eagle.com