Showing posts with label Inco. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Inco. Show all posts

Monday, May 05, 2008

Business: PT Inco Tbk Announces Holding Public Expose on May 5, 2008

- And a series of meetings with representatives of investment community on May 6-8, 2008 and May 13-14, 2008

Jakarta, May 2, 2008 (ANTARA) - PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk (PT "Inco", IDX: INCO) announced today that it will be holding Public Expose in Jakarta on May 5, 2008 that is scheduled to begin at 03:00 p.m. (local time), and a series of meetings with representatives of investment community arranged by Merill Lynch in Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo on May 6, 7 and 8, 2008, and in Miami on May 13-14, 2008 that are expected to begin at 09:00 a.m. (local time) in Hong Kong and Singapore, at 10.30 a.m. (local time) in Tokyo and at 08:30 a.m. (local time) in Miami, Florida.

Copies of the slides referred to above will be availbale for on-line viewing and/or printing through the "News & Announcement" link on PT Inco's website.

For further information, please contact:
Indra Ginting, Director of Investor Relations & Corporate Secretary : gintiin@inco.com
Jannus Siahaan, Director, Media, Communication & Licensing : siahajt@inco.com
or www.pt-inco.co.id

COPYRIGHT © 2008

Friday, April 25, 2008

Metal/Mining: PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk Reports First Quarter 2008 Earnings of US$139.6 Million

JAKARTA, April 25, 2008 (ANTARA) - PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk ("PT Inco", or the "Company", IDX:INCO) today announced unaudited net earnings of US$139.6 million for the first quarter of 2008 (US$0.014 per share), compared to net earnings of US$227.8 million (US$0.023 per share) for the first quarter of 2007. Sales of US$380 million in the first three months of 2008 compared to US$446.7 million in the corresponding quarter of 2007. Lower sales revenue was primarily due to a lower average realized price for nickel in matte. Production of nickel in matte for the first quarter of 2008 was 20,136 metric tons, compared to 17,980 metric tons in the same period in 2007.

"We achieved higher output than at the same time last year, of the increase approximately 1,200 metric tons was due to deferring our planned shutdown for electric furnace maintenance to April 2008 and the balance due to better operations. The production number representing over 25 per cent of the higher end of our 2008 production target of 78,000-to-79,000 metric tons," said Arif Siregar, the Company's President Director. "The Company achieved this result in light of improved nickel grade, maintained power availability to our electric furnaces and improved production efficiencies despite the fact that we experienced lower precipitation level in our main catchment area compared to the same period in 2007."

"It is our strategy in the current higher nickel price environment to increase production output by adding fossil fuel fired generators that provide the Company with increased revenue relative to the additional marginal cost" added Mr. Siregar.

PT Inco's realized price for nickel in matte averaged US$21,187 per metric ton in the first quarter of 2008, compared to US$29,149 per metric ton in the corresponding period in 2007 and US$23,816 per metric ton in the fourth quarter of 2007.

Unit cash cost of production in the first quarter of 2008 rose 20 per cent to US$8,857 per metric ton from US$7,386 per metric ton in the same quarter of 2007. This increase was primarily due to the higher price of high sulphur fuel oil (HSFO) and the higher price and usage of diesel. These increases were partially offset by lower employee costs.

In the first quarter of 2008 we used 676,321 barrels of HSFO, a decrease from first quarter 2007 usage of 708,839 barrels. However, the average cost of HSFO rose to US$75.63 per barrel in the first quarter of 2008 when compared to the average cost of US$48.73 per barrel paid during the same period in 2007. PT Inco also consumed 47,640 kilolitres of diesel fuel at an average cost of US$0.75 per litre, up from 28,996 kilolitres at US$0.53 per litre in the first quarter 2007. The significant increase in diesel usage was mainly due to the addition of 32 diesel generators acquired and put into use in May and June 2007.

"We are assessing and implementing initiatives to enhance cost-efficiency and de-link part of our cost structure from the price of oil. In the short term, we are ensuring that hydroelectric generating facilities could produce maximum power to our electric furnaces by continuing our efforts on cloud seeding and energy conservation. In addition, we are now rebuilding our steam turbine generator which will operate at a lower cost when compared to diesel generators. In the medium run, we will be completing our coal conversion project which gives us flexibility to use coal. In the longer term, we will further reduce energy cost by completing our third hydroelectric power generating facility on the Larona River at Karebbe," continued Mr. Siregar.

Cash provided by operating activities was US$74.4 million in the first quarter of 2008, down from US$291.5 million in the same quarter last year. This decrease was mainly because of lower receipts from customers as we recorded lower average realized price and higher payments to suppliers due to higher energy prices. Corporate tax payments during the first quarter of 2008 rose to US$156.1 million from US$134.0 million in the same period of 2007. The net increase in cash and cash equivalents of US$43.8 million brought the quarter-end 2008 cash and cash equivalents balance to US$338.1 million, higher than the US$294.3 million at December 31, 2007.

Cash capital expenditures were US$28.0 million in the first quarter of 2008, down from US$28.6 million in the prior year period. PT Inco plans capital spending of US$212 million in 2008, including: growth capital projects of US$64 million, sustaining capital expenditures of US$77 million, and US$42 million for environment, health and safety.

Prior to March 31, 2008, certain provisions of the Company's 1968 Contract of Work were still in effect. On that date these provisions expired and the certain provisions of the Extended and Modified Contract of Work agreed in December 1995 came into force. With the passing of this important milestone at the end of the first quarter, the Company requested that its external auditor audit the accounts of the Company for the first three months ended March 31, 2008. PT Inco will publish its audited financial results by June 30, 2008.

The Company's unaudited results are summarized below - all figures in US$ except for nickel in matte production and deliveries which are in thousand metric tons:
First QuarterFourth Quarter
200820072007
Nickel in
matte production:
20.118.018.6
Nickel in matte deliveries:17.715.119.0
Average realized price per metric ton21,18729,14923,816
Net sales -
millions
380.0446.7458.5
Net earnings - millions139.6227.8200.5
Net earnings per share0.0140.023(1)0.020(1)

(1) Restated to reflect 10-for-1 stock split approved by shareholders on December 17, 2007 and effective on Indonesia Stock Exchange on January 15, 2008.

Under the Company's long-term U.S. dollar-denominated sales contracts, the selling price of its nickel in matte is determined based on the greater of Vale Inco Limited's net average realized price for nickel or a formula based on the London Metal Exchange cash price for nickel.

At March 31, 2008, the Company's inventories of nickel in matte were 3,230 metric tons, compared with 747 metric tons at December 31, 2007 and 3,544 metric tons at March 31, 2007. Variations in inventories and deliveries are largely due to shipment scheduling.

For further information, please contact:
Indra Ginting, Director of Investor Relations & Corporate Secretary gintiin@inco.com
Claudio Bastos, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer cbastos@inco.com
or visit our website at www.pt-inco.co.id.

COPYRIGHT © 2008

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Business: PT Inco Tbk Will Release Its First Quarter 2008 Results

- On Friday, April 25, 2008

Jakarta, April 15, 2008 - PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk ("PT Inco", IDX: INCO) announced today that it will release its first quarter 2008 results on Friday, April 25, 2008, before opening of the Indonesia Stock Exchange trading session.

PT Inco will host a conference call and wbcast on April 25, 2008, at 10: 30a.m. (LOCAL Jakarta time).

Copies of the slides referred to above will be available for on-line viewing and/or printing through the "News & Announcement" link on PT Inco's website.

For further information, please contact:
Indra Ginting, Director of Investor Relations & Corporate Secretary gintiin@inco.com

Jannus Siahaan, Director of Media, Communication and Licensing siahajt@inco.com or www.pt-inco.id

COPYRIGHT © 2008

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk Declares Final Dividend For 2007

- And Makes Several Key Appointments At Annual General Meeting of Shareholders

Jakarta, March 26, 2008 (ANTARA) - Shareholders of PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk ("PT Inco" or the "Company") represented at its Annual General Meeting today approved a dividend of US$0.02264 per share consisting of a final dividend for 2007 in the amount of US$0.0025 per share and an extraordinary dividend of US$0.02014 per share. The decision to pay an extraordinary dividend of US$0.02014 per share was made in light of the Company's strong performance in 2007.

The final dividend of US$0.02264 per share is payable on May 7, 2008 to shareholders of record as of April 21, 2008. Indonesian shareholders will be paid the Rupiah equivalent of the U.S. dollar amount, based on the Bank of Indonesia middle rate of exchange on April 21, 2008. Foreign shareholders will be paid in U.S. dollars.

An interim dividend for 2007 of US$0.09787 per share was previously paid in December 2007, bringing the aggregate dividend for 2007 to US$0.12051 per share. This compares with an aggregate dividend of US$0.0525 per share in 2006. Per share figures noted here reflect the 10-for-1 stock split effective on January 15, 2008.

Shareholders also appointed Murilo Ferreira as President Commissioner, Rumengan Musu as Vice President Commissioner and Achmad Amiruddin, Takeshi Kubota, Jennifer Maki, Roberto Moretzsohn, Marco Pires, Rozik B. Soetjipto, Naoyuki Tsuchida and Subarto Zaini as Commissioners for the term ending at the Company's Annual General Meeting in 2010. They also reappointed Arif Siregar as President Director, Michael Winship as Vice President Director and Claudio Bastos as Director. As well, Nurman Djumiril was appointed as a new member to the board of Directors. The terms of each of the Directors will expire at the Company's Annual General Meeting in 2010.

The firm of Kantor Akuntan Publik Haryanto Sahari & Rekan (the member firm of Pricewaterhouse Coopers International in Indonesia) was reappointed as the Company's auditor for the year ending December 31, 2008.

For further information, please contact:
Indra Ginting, Director of Investor Relations & Corporate Secretary gintiin@inco.com
Claudio Bastos, Vice President and CFO cbastos@inco.com
or www.pt-inco.co.id

COPYRIGHT © 2008

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

Antam`s Net Profit Jumps 230% to Rp5,132 Billion

Jakarta, March 12th, 2008 (ANTARA) - PT Antam Tbk (ASX - ATM; IDX - ANTM) is pleased to announce audited consolidated net profit increased 230% to Rp5,132 billion, and Earnings per Share (EPS) of Rp538.08 for the full year of 2007, from the Rp1,553 billion and EPS of Rp162.79 of the full year of 2006. The significant increase is mostly due to higher prices of nickel as well as gold and higher sales volumes of nickel ore and nickel contained in ferronickel. A relatively lower increase of Antam's cost of sales boosted Antam's net margin to 43%.


Antam's President Director, Mr. Dedi Aditya Sumanagara said:

"With this record setting performance, due to not only higher prices but also significant output expansion, we have created a robust financial foundation and are now ready to launch our next phase of growth investments."

Net Sales

Antam's net sales for the full year of 2007 rose a significant 113% to a record Rp12,008 billion from Rp5,629 billion. The growth is due to increased production and sales volumes of Antam's ferronickel, nickel ore and gold and higher prices. Ferronickel accounted for 48% of Antam's sales, followed by nickel ore at 41% and gold at 9%. The share of the Rp10,687 billion contribution from the nickel segment to Antam's total sales rose to 89% from 84% in 2006. Revenue from the gold segment which includes gold and silver sales as well as precious metals refinery services amounted to Rp1,171 billion or 10% of Antam's total sales. The revenue from all of Antam's products increased in 2007 compared to 2006 with the exception of bauxite.

Ferronickel

In 2007, sales of Antam's nickel contained in ferronickel increased 113% to Rp5,793 billion due to higher sales volume and average achieved selling price, which rose 32% and 60% respectively. In 2007, Antam sold 17,723 tonnes of nickel contained in ferronickel with Europe, Korea and Taiwan the prime destinations, accounting for 52%, 28% and 14% of volumes respectively. The average achieved selling price of Antam's nickel contained in ferronickel, which is based upon the international price determined by the London Metal Exchange, increased 60% to US$16.16 per pound, or US$35,627 per tonne. Antam's ferronickel is sold CIF (cost, insurance & freight).

Antam produced 18,532 tonnes of nickel contained in ferronickel, which included 1,410 tonnes produced through toll smelting agreements with European and Japanese companies. The discrepancy in Antam's production and sales in 2007 is due to difficulties in securing cargo space, due to high cost and availability of marine transportation, and due to softening demand in Europe, due to inventory destocking activities undertaken by stainless steel producers, beginning at the middle of the year. To produce this quantity of ferronickel, Antam consumed 1,310,207 wmt of saprolite nickel ore at an average ratio of 77 wmt of ore to one tonne of nickel contained in ferronickel. In 2007, Antam used 325,781 wmt from its own mines at Pomalaa and Halmahera Island and 984,426 wmt from PT Inco's East Pomalaa deposit. Production of ferronickel was 28% higher compared to 2006 despite a shutdown at the FeNi III smelter in June 2007 due to metal leak. Following a partial repair of the leak, Antam restarted operation of FeNi III at the end of August 2007. In order to maintain safety and stability of the furnace, Antam currently operates the smelter at 25 megawatts, from a maximum power load of 42 MW. To ensure long term and stable operation, Antam plans to operate the smelter at a power load of 36?38 MW or 85% - 90% of capacity.

Should Antam not safely be able to increase the power load beyond 25MW, and without any toll smelting, Antam estimates 2008 production to reach 17,000 tonnes of nickel contained in ferronickel.

Nickel Ore, Gold and Bauxite

Nickel ore sales increased 144% to Rp4,894 billion as Antam ramped up sales inline with increased demand from China as well as a higher average achieved selling price for saprolite, or high grade ore. Antam sold 6,907,367 wmt of nickel ore in 2007, of which substantially all was high grade and low grade saprolite and 51% of which was sold to China. Antam had initially targeted nickel ore sales in 2007 at between 5.5 to 5.8 million wmt, yet due to huge unexpected demand from Chinese pig iron producers, Antam's exports far exceeded the initial target. Antam's nickel ore is sold to Japan, Eastern Europe and China, with the high grades generally going to Japan and Eastern Europe and lower grades to China. The Chinese use the lower grade ore as feed for their blast furnaces to produce nickel contained in pig iron for sale to domestic stainless steel producers. For Antam, the sale of the low grade saprolite ore is part of the effort to conserve its reserves as Antam uses the high grade nickel ore for ferronickel processing at Pomalaa. Japan accounted for 33% of saprolite nickel ore sales and Eastern European stainless steel producers accounted for 18% of total saprolite sales, while the rest was exported to China. The average price of saprolite, which is sold FOB (free on board) increased 49% to US$82.43 per wmt. The price is determined according to the price on the LME, the grade, moisture content and the specified recovery rate.

Gold sales jumped 72% to Rp1,034 billion on the back of strong sales volumes and a higher average achieved selling price. Despite 3% lower gold production of 2,791 kg (89,733 troy oz), sales of gold increased 50% to 5,000 kg (160,754 troy oz) due to extensive gold trading activities that began in March 2007. The trading is conducted by Logam Mulia, Antam's precious metals refinery, which also refines and sells the gold and silver of Antam and other companies. In 2007, 44% of gold sales came from trading gold bought from third parties, such as retail outlets and individuals, as well as that from the Cikotok mine currently operated by Antam's subsidiary, PT Antam Resourcindo. In 2007, the price of Antam's gold rose 15% to US$702.63 per troy ounce and is based upon the international price as determined by the London Bullion Market Association. Revenue from silver, a by-product of gold processing, rose 47% to Rp108 billion, inline with a 28% increase of silver sales to 26,949 kg (866,430 troy oz) and production of 24,126 kg (775,669 troy oz). The average achieved selling price of Antam's silver rose 15% to US$13.64 per troy ounce. Antam estimates 2008 gold production will reach 2,980 kg (95,809 troy oz) and 20,703 kg (665,617 troy oz) of silver. In addition to conducting Antam's gold and silver sales, Logam Mulia provides refinery services for third parties, which generated Rp29 billion in revenue in 2007, a 60% increase compared to 2006.

Bauxite sales decreased 32% to Rp130 billion as sales volume dropped 37% to 975,009 wmt. Lower sales volume occurred due to decreased demand for Antam's bauxite which comes from a nearly exhausted mine site and is therefore relatively low quality due its high silica content. Sales revenue from bauxite was lower despite a 7% increase in sales price to US$14.58 per wmt. Antam's bauxite is sold FOB (free on board).

Similar with previous years, exports accounted for the majority of Antam's revenues, contributing 97% to consolidated net sales. Antam's domestic revenues came from gold sales (a quarter of gold revenues are from domestic sales) and precious metals refinery services. Antam's ferronickel customers were mainly stainless steel producers from Europe, such as Thyssen Krupp Nirosta, Outokumpu, AvestaPolarit and Arcelor and North Asia, such as Nisshin Steel, Nippon Yakin Kogyo and Yieh United while Antam's gold exports go to Standard Bank London in Singapore. Ferronickel sales to Europe, which are handled by Avarus AG, accounted for the largest portion, or 29% of Antam's total sales. The second largest customer was South Korean leading stainless steel producer, Posco, with Rp1,438 billion of Antam's total sales. Yieh United from of Taiwan was Antam's next largest customer with Rp1,155 billion or 10% of Antam's total sales.

Cost of Sales

Antam's cost of sales increased 66% to Rp4,795 billion inline with higher production volumes as well as higher cost of productions. Meanwhile, Antam's cost of production, which is the cost of sales before adjustments due to changes in inventory, increased 65% to Rp5,171 billion. The top five contributors accounted for 74% of Antam's total cost of production and these components, in descending order, were: materials used, ore mining service, fuels, labour costs and depreciation.

Materials Used

Antam's materials cost represented the largest component of Antam's cost of production in 2007. Accounting for 27% of the overall cost of production, materials cost increased 126% to Rp1,379 billion mainly due to the higher production volume of ferronickel as well as higher cost of sourcing nickel ore from PT Inco Indonesia, which was used as ore feed for most of Antam's ferronickel production.

Under an agreement signed in 2003, Antam annually sources 1,000,000 wmt of saprolite nickel ore (+/- 10%) from PT Inco's East Pomalaa deposit, the price of which is correlated to the international spot price. As the average international spot nickel price increased significantly in 2007, so did the cost of sourcing the saprolite nickel ore from PT Inco. Despite the increased cost of nickel ore feed, Antam plans to continue sourcing ore from PT Inco. In so doing, Antam preserves its own high grade ore reserves for later development. Antam also frees up ore extraction capacity in order to increase production of lower quality ore (ore that Antam could not use for its own ferronickel production) for export to pig iron blast furnaces in China.

The consumption and prices of other consumables such as coal and anthracite also increased. Coal consumption increased 24% to 105,000 tonnes while its price increased 10% to Rp559,000 per tonne. Meanwhile Anthracite consumption increased 49% to 12,352 tonnes while its price increased 7% to Rp1.26 million per tonne

The nickel segment accounted for 58% of materials costs, followed by the gold segment accounting which accounted for 41%.

Ore Mining Services

Ore mining services increased 81% to Rp 863 billion due to significantly higher nickel ore production. The increase was also due to the higher production costs of Antam's mining contractors such as higher fuel. Ore mining services in 2007 was the second largest component accounting for 17% of the total cost of production, up from third position in 2006 when it accounted for 15%. Antam uses third party as well as related party contractors for its ore mining services. The terms of the related party transactions are based on arms length negotiations and are on par with those of third party contractors. The largest component of ore mining services was for nickel ore mining, which accounted for 90% of the total ore mining services cost. Bauxite and gold mining fees were second and third largest at 9% and 1% of the total cost, respectively. Ore mining services would have been higher if Antam had not sourced most of its ore feed from PT Inco.

Fuel

Fuel costs increased 23% to Rp636 billion inline with higher nickel contained ferronickel production, which increased 28% to 18,532 tonnes and higher international oil prices. Fuel contributed 12% to Antam's cost of production and was the third largest component down from the second largest in 2006. Fuel swapped positions with ore mining services as nickel ore production increased at higher rate than ferronickel production. About 98% of Antam's fuel consumption was attibuted to Antam's ferronickel production in Pomalaa. In order to produce 1 tonne of nickel in ferronickel, it will normally require about 10,000 litres of fuel. Since 2005 Antam has been switching its main source of diesel fuel from the higher priced IDO to the lower priced MFO. In 2007, Antam used around 20,000 litres of IDO and around 136,000 litres of MFO. IDO was less than 13% of Antam's overall diesel fuel consumption in 2007.

To lower its fuel cost, and the main strategy to lower overall production costs, is to convert to less expensive fuels such as coal, hydro or natural gas.

Labor Costs

Labor costs, which include salaries, wages, bonuses and employee benefits, increased 9% to Rp484 billion and accounted for 9% of Antam's total cost of production. The rather slight increase in labor costs in 2007 is attributed to the fact that Antam slightly lowered its number of permanent employees to 2,716 in 2007 from 2,749 in 2006 and charges related to the pension plan and some of other post-retirement benefits also decreased. Antam had conducted several large page increases over the past few years. The largest component of labor costs was health benefits for retirees which accounted for 21% of the labor cost, followed by bonus payments and remote area incentives which were 20% and 10% of the labor cost respectively.

Depreciation

Depreciation was the fifth largest contributor at 9% of Antam's cost of production. With the commencement of commerical operations of FeNi III in early 2007, depreciation charges increased 7% to Rp455 billion. Depreciation at Antam's ferronickel facilities in Pomalaa contributed 78% of Antam's total depreciation costs. Depreciation at Pongkor facilities was the second largest component and attributing to 21% of Antam's total depreciation costs in 2007.

Toll Smelting Sevices

Another significant component of Antam's cost of production was toll smelting services, which accounted for 6% of Antam's cost of production and increased 1,624% to Rp319 billion in 2007. In 2007, Antam toll smelted 1,408 tonnes of nickel in ferronickel via third parties as compared to 206 tonnes in 2006. The increase of toll smelting was conducted to compensate for the loss of production due to the June 2007 leak at FeNi III and subsequent reduced power load at FeNi III once it resumed operation, following the completion of partial repairs on August 26th, 2007.

Gross Profit

Despite the higher costs of sales, Antam's gross profit increased 163% to Rp7,213 billion as the growth of Antam's sales outpaced the increase in cost of sales. Antam's gross margin widened 23% to 60% in 2007 from 49% in 2006.

Operating Expenses and Profit

Antam's operating expenses rose 24% to Rp417 billion mainly due to the 18% increase in general and administrative expenses to Rp348 billion. The largest component of general and administrative expenses was salaries which increased 23% to Rp209 billion and accounted for 60% of the total general and administrative expenses. Other expenses, the second largest component of general and administrative expenses, increased 0.8% to Rp41 billion in 2007.

Besides the increase in general and administrative expenses, the increase in Antam's operating expenses was also due to a 90% increase in exploration expenses to Rp61 billion despite a 24% decrease in Tokyo office's selling and marketing activities to Rp8.63 billion.

Antam's operating profit increased 183% to Rp6,796 billion, which resulted in a significant jump of operating margin to 57% in 2007 from 43% in 2006.

Other Income and Net Income

In 2007, Antam booked other income of Rp506 billion compared to other expenses of Rp184 billion in 2006 due to higher interest income, higher dividend income, lower interest expenses. Antam booked foreign exchange gains in 2007 as opposed to foreign exchange losses in 2006. Gains on hedging transactions, penalties and insurance claims also contributed to other income.

Antam generated interest income of Rp126 billion, a 301% increase over 2006, as Antam's cash position increased 317% to Rp4,744 billion and average interest rates increased. Antam's dividend income increased 117% to Rp140 billion due to increased profits of PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals (NHM), Antam's gold joint venture with Newcrest Ltd. Due to a larger US Dollar cash position, the repayment of Antam's US Dollar bonds, and a weaker Rupiah, Antam booked a foreign exchange gain of Rp181 billion as opposed to Rp58 billion loss in 2006. Antam's interest expenses decreased 48% to Rp74 billion. Antam's hedging transactions created gains on hedging contract transaction in 2007 for Rp15 billion as opposed to losses on hedging contract in 2006 for Rp95 billion.

Antam received settlements for claims made for compensation due to the late delivery of FeNi III from Mitsui & Co., Ltd and Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd for Rp 78 billion. Antam also received a Rp8 billion settlement for insurance claims related to the 2005 breakdown of FeNi II.

In 2007, Antam generated net income of Rp5,132 billion (US$562 million), a significant 230% jump over its net income in 2006. As a result, Antam's net profit margin also widened significantly to 43% in 2007 from 28% in 2006.

Cash Cost and Cost Reduction Program

Antam's cash costs increased for all of its products due to higher materials, labour and transportation costs, similar to other players in the industry. Both Antam's limonite and bauxite cash costs increased 30% to US$11.26/wmt and US$13.44/wmt respectively mainly due to lower production in 2007 which resulted in higher cost per unit as well as by higher ore mining costs. Antam's saprolite cash cost increased slightly to US$20.32/wmt. Gold cash cost increased 35% due to higher fuel prices. Antam's ferronickel cash cost increased 26% to US$5.55/lb due mainly to the higher price of nickel ore feed sourced from PT Inco and higher fuel prices.

Despite increases in Antam's cash costs, Antam remained a competitive low cost producer of its products - with the exception of ferronickel. To lower the ferronickel cash cost, Antam will convert to a less expensive fuel such as hydropower, coal or natural gas.

In 2007, Antam signed a power purchase agreement with PT Tamboli Energy (Tamboli) for the supply of 15MW peak load capacity of electricity to Antam's Pomalaa ferronickel facilities (representing about 15% of the power required to produce ferronickel at full capacity) from Tamboli's run-of-river hydropower plant. Following the commencement of the hydropower purchase in 2009, it is expected that Antam could lower its ferronickel power cost by upto 8-10% which will result in a saving of upto 3-4% of Antam's ferronickel cash cost. For the remaining 85% of Antam's ferronickel energy needs, Antam is still actively studying various alternatives. It is expected Antam will make a decision in 2008 as to which alternative source of energy will be chosen.

Balance Sheet

Total Consolidated Assets

In 2007, Antam's total consolidated assets increased significantly, growing 65% to Rp12,038 billion mainly due to increased current assets which rose mostly due to much higher cash receipts. Antam's non-current assets did not contribute to the total assets growth as no significant new fixed asset investments were made and increases in deferred exploration and development expenditure and deferred tax assets were offset by lower fixed assets due to depreciation.

Current Assets

Antam's current assets increased 143% to Rp8,048 billion as cash and cash equivalents grew 317% to Rp4,744 billion, accounting for 59% of total current assets. The increase of current assets amounted to Rp4,730 billion due largely to the Rp3,606 increase of cash, which was 76% of the current assets growth. Trade receivables and inventories also contributed to the growth. At the end of 2007, the USD/IDR exchange rate increased 4% to Rp9,419 such that Rp146 billion of the increase in cash was the effect of foreign exchange fluctuations. In 2006, the movement of the exchange rate had the opposite effect.

With this strong cash position, Antam is ready to make growth investments. Antam placed Rp4,384 billion of cash in time deposits, 93% of it in USD and 7% in IDR at several local and international banks with a range of annual interest rate deposits from 3.75% - 11.75% (USD) which were generally higher than in 2006 until rates were cut at the end of the year. The trend was the same for IDR rates which ranged from 3.25% - 11.50% (IDR).

Trade receivables also contributed to the increase in current assets, climbing 86% to Rp1,680 billion due to higher receivables with Avarus AG (ferronickel agent in Europe), Pohang Iron & Steel Co (ferronickel), Raznoimport Nickel (UK) Limited (nickel ore) and Mitsui & Co (ferronickel). Antam's trade receivables included new customers such as Zhejiang Grand IMP and Sino Add (Singapore) PTE Ltd. Antam's allowance for doubtful accounts was insignificant as Antam believes it is sufficient to cover losses from the non-collection of the accounts.

Antam's inventories rose 39% to Rp1,319 billion due to the 64% increase in products inventory, which are accounted for at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Ferronickel inventory rose 85% to Rp457 billion inline with the higher cost of production of ferronickel. Antam also booked a 95% increase in gold and silver inventory to Rp172 billion as Antam increased gold trading activities from third parties, including from retail customers. Inventories of gold and silver were insured against the risk of physical damage and theft under blanket policies.

Non-Current Assets

Antam's non-current assets slightly increased from Rp3,975 billion to Rp3,990 billion as increases in deferred exploration, development and tax expenditures were not offset by decreased in fixed assets net of accumulated depreciation. Antam did not acquire significant new fixed assets as the significant expenditures on the most recent expansion came to an end when commercial operations of FeNi III began in the beginning of 2007. Antam increased its investments in shares of stock up 51% to Rp55.8 billion consisting of Rp13.5 billion for PT Indonesia Chemical Alumina (Tayan Chemical Grade Alumina project), Rp35.7 billion for PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals (gold mine operated by Newcrest), Rp5.8 billion for PT Cibaliung Sumberdaya (gold mine under development by Austindo) and Rp836 billion for the new investment in a 5% stake of PT Mega Citra Utama, a mining exploration and operator. Antam consolidated the investment of a 60% stake in PT Borneo Edo International, a mining license holder for bauxite exploration in West Kalimantan, which occurred in September 2007. Antam's deferred exploration and development expenditure increased 30% to Rp487 billion, deferred tax assets rose 86% to Rp309 billion and other non-current assets rose 227% to Rp85 billion.

Total Consolidated Liabilities

Antam total consolidated liabilities increased 9% to Rp3,273 billion due to higher current liabilities which rose 52% compared to 2006 to Rp1,799 billion or 55% of total consolidated liabilities. Due partly to debt reduction, Antam's non-current liabilities decreased 19% to Rp1,474 billion.

Current Liabilities

Antam's current liabilities increased to Rp1,799 billion mainly due to higher taxes payable, which increased 134% to Rp988 billion and accrued expenses which rose 36% to Rp452 billion. Taxes payable increased inline with higher taxable income. Accrued expenses increased due to the signicantly higher raw material and services fees. Accrued raw material purchases amounted to Rp141 billion and Rp131 billion for mining and transportation services fees.

Antam's total trade payables decreased 38% to Rp80 billion mainly due to the elimination of a payable position for nickel ore bought from PT Inco Indonesia. Of total trade payables, 76% were owed in Rupiah and 70% were due within 30 days.

The total current maturities of investment loans decreased 17% to Rp220 billion, consisting of a reduction in the current maturity from PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA) to Rp126 billion and a reduction in the current maturity from PT Bank Mandiri (Persero) Tbk (Mandiri) to Rp94 billion. On December 21st, 2006, Antam withdrew US$71 million from the BCA loan and US$50 million from the Mandiri facility to help refinance the remainder of Antam's outstanding USD bonds, issued in 2003. Both credit facilities have a repayment period of five years, starting from June 2007 until December 2011. Each facility has an interest rate of SIBOR 3 months plus 1.5%. On February 2007, Antam entered an interest rate swap agreement with Barclay Capital for the Mandiri loan at a fixed rate of 6.75% and BCA for the BCA loan at fixed rate of 6.61%. The average interest rate in 2007 was 6.83%.

Non-Current Liabilities

In 2007, due to debt repayment, Antam lowered its non current liabilities 19% to Rp1,474 billion. Antam's long term debt decreased 35% to Rp700 billion. Antam's lowered total debt 31% to Rp920 billion. For the first time in many years Antam reduced its pension and other post-retirement obligations, which decreased 6% to Rp644 billion due to lower post-employment medical, and other post-retirement and pension benefits.

Total Consolidated Stockholders' Equity

Antam's total consolidated stockholders' equity rose 105% to Rp8,764 billion due to the 136% increase in retained earnings to Rp7,785 billion. Antam had appropriated Rp2,653 billion of retained earnings. The significant increase in retained earnings is due to significantly higher net income generated by increasing production and higher commodity prices.

Cash Flows

Due to increased production and sales volumes and higher prices, Antam's cash flows from operations surged to a record high. Antam's nickel contained in ferronickel sales volumes increased 31% following the commencement of commercial operations of the third smelter, FeNi III, nickel ore sales volumes increased 60% due to strong demand from China and gold sales increased 50% due to stable production combined with increased trading activities. Due mostly to strong demand from China, as well as muted global supply increases, the achieved selling prices for all of Antam's main products increased. The prices for nickel contained in ferronickel rose 56%, saprolite nickel ore rose 49% and gold rose 15%.

With few capital expenditures, amounting to only Rp197 billion, Antam was very much cash flow positive, as in 2006, and cash holdings grew as Antam completed its latest growth phase. Antam's free cash flow in 2007 grew significantly to Rp4,639 billion. In 2005 Antam was free cash flow negative Rp569 billion, as it had been since 2003, in line with expenditures made to more than double ferronickel production capacity. With the significant 317% build up in cash holdings to Rp4,744 billion, Antam is ready to pursue opportunities to enhance shareholder value, such as making acquisitions, investing in expanding and upgrading operations, paying dividends and further lowering debt.

Cash Flows From Operating Activities

In 2007, Antam's net cash receipts from operations rose Rp3,990 billion, or 182% to Rp6,183 billion. The increase is primarily due to the 116% increase in receipts from customers, which rose Rp6,038 billion to Rp11,229 billon. Antam's payments to suppliers increased Rp1,845 billion or 76% to Rp4,277 billion and payments to commissioners, directors and employees increased 48% to Rp793 billion. The greater pace of increase for customer receipts compared to payments to suppliers and for management and employees enhanced the rate of growth for net cash receipts.

Despite higher interest income and lower interest payments due to larger cash holdings and higher US dollar interest rates, Antam's net cash provided by operating activities did not increase at the same pace of net cash receipts due to a significantly larger payment for tax. Antam's cash flow for interest income rose 306% to Rp126 billion while interest payments, due to loan repayment, lowered 62% to Rp78 billion. Antam's tax payments increased Rp1,095 billion or 191% to Rp1,669 billion, due to tax paid on Antam's much higher taxable income.

Cash Flows Used In Investing Activities

Antam's cash flows used in investing activities increased 37% to Rp262 billion. The increase is mainly due to higher acquisitions of property, plant and equipment as well as exploration and development expenditure. In 2007, Antam spent Rp197 billion, an increase of 129% or Rp111 billion, on acquisitions of property, plant and equipment. As well, Antam ramped up investment on exploration and development 63% to Rp195 billion. These increases were not offset by Antam's dividend income, related to Antam's 17.5% stake in a gold company run by Newcrest Ltd called PT Nusa Halmahera Minerals, which rose 2,114% to Rp155 billion.

Cash Flows Used in Financing Activities

In 2007 Antam made smaller, yet still significant, repayments of long term borrowings, which in total decreased 74% to Rp462 billion. Antam's total long term debt decreased 35% to Rp700 billion. However, due to a much larger dividend payment, Antam's cash flows used in financing activities increased 16% to Rp1,114 billion. In line with higher net income in 2006, Antam's cash flows for payment of dividends rose 117% to Rp621 billion.

For further information please contact:
Mr. Bimo Budi Satriyo ~ Corporate Secretary
Tel: (6221) 780 5119
Fax: (6221) 781 2822
Email: corsec@antam.com

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Monday, March 03, 2008

PT. International Nickel Indonesia Tbk 2007 Sets All Time High

- Production Rose To 169.2 Million Pounds And Earnings More Than Doubled To US$1,173 Million
(All amounts are expressed in US$ and all per share figures reflect the 10-for-1 stock split

JAKARTA, February 29th 2008 (ANTARA) - PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk ("PT Inco" or the "Company", ISX: INCO) today announced its unaudited results for 2007. Net earnings more than doubled to US$1,173.0 million (US$0.12 per share) from US$513..4 million (US$0.05 per share) in 2006. Sales rose 74 percent to US$2,325.9 million in 2007 from US$1,337.7 million in the prior year. Despite an 11 day strike in November 2007, the Company had record production of nickel in matte in 2007 of 76,748 metric tons (169.2 million pounds) compared to 71,622 metric tons (157.9 million pounds) inthe previous year.

"Our annual production of 76,748 metric tons (169.2 million pounds) of nickel in matte was the highest in PT Inco's production history and above our 2007 plan of 74,843 metric tons (165 million pounds)." Said Arif Siregar, the Company's President Director. "The Company achieved this outstanding result despite an employee strike for which we suffered an estimated production loss of approximately 2,300 metric tons (five million pounds). We were able to the furnaces and improved production efficiencies."

The Company's realized price for nickel in matte averaged US$23,816 per metric ton (US$10.80 per pound) in the fourth quarter 0f 2007, a 4 percent decrease from US$24,725 per metric ton (US$11,21 per pound) in the same period of the prior year. In 2007, the Company's realized price for nickel in matte averaged US$29,881 per metric ton (US$13,55 per pound), up 63 percent from US$8.33 per pound) in 2006.

Cash provided by operating activities but before capital expenditures was US$1,401.0 million in 2007 compared with US$500.7 million in 2006. The increase in 2007 was mainly due to a US$1,299.2 million increase in cash receipts from customers and a US$70.6 million increase of other receipts, which more than offset an increase of US$369.2 million in corporate income tax and a US$37.7 million rise in employment costs due to higher profit sharing from the 2006 level. Net cash putflow after capital expenditures, debt servicing and dividend payments was US$183.6 million in 2007, compared to an inflow of US$228.7 million in 2006.

Unit cash cost of production for 2007 rose to US$7,845 per metric ton (US$3.56 per pound) from US$6,902 per metric ton (US$3.13 per pound) in the prior year. In 2007 we used 2.77 million barrels of High Sulphur Fuel Oil (HSFO) at an average cost of US$56.91 per barrel, an increase from 2006 usage of 2.75 million barrels at an average cost of US$52.00 per barrel. Due to a greater usage of diesel generators purchased in the first half 2007 to support production and conserve water, PT Inco consumed 145,486 kilolitres of diesel fuel at an average cost of US$0.60 per litre, up from 100,669 kilolitres at US$0.57 per litre in 2006.

"Our primary business strategy includes optimizing production while minimizing costs, to benefit from the current strong nickel price environment. PT Inco targeting output at a range of 77,000-to-79,000 metric tons (169.8-to-174.2 million pounds) of nickel in matte in 2008, subject to adequate rainfall to fill our reservoirs during the remainder of the year." added Mr. Siregar.

"We continue to work toward our goal of building new dam and hydroelectric facility at Karebbe on the Larona River, which we expect will raise PT Inco's generating capacity to 365 megawatts - a 90 megawatt increases - while reducing our energy supply risk and lowering our unit cash cost for nickel in matte production. We expect to complete the Karebbe project in the first half of 2011 and are in the process of finalizing capital cost estimates. In addition, as part of our initiatives to sustain profitability, PT Inco has completed a study related to converting the ore dryers from expensive high sulphur fuel oil (HSFO) to pulverized coal to further reduce operating cash costs. It will also provide the Company with the flexibility to switch between HSFO and coal, depending on the market conditions. Projected capital costs for this conversion are estimated to be US$100 million with completion targeted for 2010," continued Mr. Siregar.

Net earnings were US$200.5 million in qurter ended December 31, 2007, or US$0.02 per share, down 24 percent from net earnings of US$265.5 million, or US$0.03 per share in the same quarter of 2006. Sales in the fourth quarter 2007 decreased by 22 percent to US$458.5 million from US$589.6 million in the same period of the prior year due to lower realized prices and lower deliveries. Fourth quarter production was 18.597 metric tons (41.0 million pounds) compared to 21,228 metric tons (46.8 million pounds) in the corresponding period in 2006 due to the strike.

Unit cash cost of production in the fourth quarter of 2007 rose 21 percent to US$8,774 per metric ton (US$3.98 per pound) from US$7,241 per metric ton (US$3.28 per pound) in the same quarter of 2006. This increase was primarily due to higher fuel cost, higher employee profit sharing and increased services and contracts. PT Inco's average HSFO price was US$68.00 per barrel in the fourth quarter 2007 compared to US$51.74 in the same quarter of 2006. The Company booked an average diesel price of US$0.68 per litre in the fourth quarter 2007 compared to US$0.61 per litre in the previous year period.

Cash provided by operating activities but before capital expenditures was US$179.7 million in the fourth quarter 2007 compared with US$332.4 million in corresponding period in 2006. The decrease was mainly due to an increase of US$116.3 million in corporate income tax. Net cash outflow after capital expenditures, debt servicing and dividend payments was US$824.4 million fourth quarter 2007compared to an inflow of US$278.6 million fourth quarter 2006.

Cash capital spending fell slightly to US$102 million in 2007 from US$110 million in 2006. Major items included sustaining capital; spending related to our major capital programs to raise production capacity to 90,718 metric tones (200 million pounds) of nickel in matte; environment, health and safety; and cost-saving initiatives. Delays in the resolution of a permit from the Minister of Forestry for construction of our Karebbe hydroelectricity generating facility resulted in realized capital expenditure of US$13 million for this project in 2007, compared to our 2007 expected capital expenditure of US$36 million.

PT. Inco plans capital spending of US$212 million, including: growth capital projects of US$64 million, sustaining capital expenditures of US$77 million, and US$42 million for environment, health and safety.

In 2007 we achieved key milestones in our commitment to excellence in environment, health and safety performance. We completed the final stage of our US$62 million capital project to bring all our electric furnaces well within government mandated dust emissions levels. Installation of the last combustion and pollution control equipment on three electric furnaces was completed on schedule and under budget in 2007. Capital spending for this equipment in 2007 amounted to US$17 million.

The Company's results are summarized below (Unaudited):
Fourth
Quarter
Year
2007200620072006
Nickel in matte production:
- thousand metric tons18.621.276.771.6
- millions pounds41.046.8169.2157.9
Nickel in matte deliveries:
- thousand metric tons19.023.576.671.7
- million pounds41.851.7169.0158.1
Average realized price:
- per metric tonUS$23,816US$24,725US$29,881US$18,356
- per poundUS$10.80US$11.21US$13.55US$8.33
Net sales - millionsUS$
458.5
US$ 589.6US$2,325.9US$1,337.7
Net earnings - millionsUS$
200.5
US$ 265.5US$1,173.0US$ 513.4
Net earnings per shareUS$ 0.02US$ 0.03US$ 0.12US$ 0.05


Under the Company's long-term U.S. dollar-denominated sales contracts, the selling price of its nickel in matte is the greater of Vale Inco Limited's net average realized price for nickel or the value determined by a formula based on the London Metal Exchange cash price for nickel.

At December 31, 2007, the Company's inventories of nickel in matte were 747 metric tons (1.6 million pounds), compared with 1,132 metric tons (2.5 million pounds) at September 30, 2007 and 668 metric tons (1.5 million pounds) at December 31, 2006. Variations in inventories are largely due to shipment scheduling.

For further information, please contact:
Indra Ginting, Director of Investor Relations & Corporate Secretary gintiin@inco.com
Claudio Bastos, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer cbastos@inco.com
or: www.pt-inco.co.id

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

PT Inco Tbk Announces Annual Production and Talks With Indonesian Govt. on Future Development

JAKARTA, February 4, 2008 (ANTARA) -- PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk ("PT Inco" or the "Company") reported that its annual production of nickel in matte in 2007 was approximately 169 million pounds (76,657 tonnes), which exceeded the original target of 165 million pounds (74,843 tonnes) established for that year. Commenting on the production results, President Director Arif Siregar was delighted to have achieved this milestone particularly in light of last year's strike at the Company's operation in South Sulawesi. "We delivered what we promised while our environment record has continued to improve" he said.

The Company also reported that senior management had met with officials from the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources ("DEMR") to discuss the Company's obligations under its Contract of Work. At that meeting, the Company presented plans to allow it to commence mining operations at Bahodopi and to construct a high pressure acid leach processing facility at Sorowako in substitution for the Company's undertaking in the Contract of Work to construct a processing facility at Bahodopi. Under this plan, the ore from Bahodopi would be combined with ore from the Sorowako area to feed the existing pyrometallurgical processing facility in Sorowako. PT Inco would continue its exploration program at Bahodopi and continue to study options for developing a processing facility in the future. Final determination from the above plans will be published following an evaluation of the financial, technical, environmental and community effects of such plans have been carried out.

To carry out the plan, the Company will need to proceed with feasibility studied on the proposed high pressure acid leach processing facility to be located in Sorowako. It is essential that the Company conclude arrangements with the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and secure necessary permits to support such a significant capital investment. Any decision to proceed with that investment will require the approval of the Board of Directors and Board of Commissioners of the Company.

If all plans are approved by the DEMR and the Company, it is expected that the proposed processing facility in Sorowako will produce approximately 22,000 tonnes of nickel (48.5 million pounds).

For further information, please contact:
Investor Relations : Indra Ginting (6221) 524 9002 or gintiin@inco.com
Media Relations : Jannus Siahaan (6221) 524 9000 or siahajt@inco.com
or: www.pt-inco.co.id

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

PT. Inco Tbk Requests A Meeting With DEMR To Discuss Its Undertakings

JAKARTA, January 21, 2008 (ANTARA) -- PT International Nickel Indonesia Tbk ("PT Inco" or the "Company") has requested a meeting with the Department of Energy and Mineral Resources ("DEMR") to discuss the Company's obligation under its modified and extended Contract of Work with the Government of the Republic of Indonesia to construct a processing facility at Bahodopi.

The Company recently received a report prepared by an independent consultant. The report reviewed various options regarding the Bahodopi property and concluded that, while the ore may be well suited for a ferro-nickel processing facility, such a project would not be economically feasible based on current circumstances. One of the purposes of the meeting will be to discuss the results of the study with the DEMR.

The Company proposes to conclude an agreement with the Government of the Republic of Indonesia to allow it to commence mining operations at Bahodopi and to construct a high pressure acid leach processing facility at Sorowako in substitution for the Company's undertaking in the Contract of Work to construct a processing facility at Bahodopi. Under the company's proposal, ore from Bahodopi would be combined with ore from the Sorowako area to feed both the existing pyrometallurgical processing facility in Sorowako and the proposed high pressure acid leach processing facility. The Company would also continue its exploration program at Bahodopi and continue to study options for developing a processing facility there in the future.

To carry out these proposals, The Company will need to proceed with feasibility studies on the proposed high pressure acid leach processing facility t be located in Sorowako. It will also need to conclude agreements with the Government of the Republic of Indonesia and secure necessary permits to support a significant capital investment. Any decision to proceed with an investment will require the approval of the Board of Directors and Board of Commissioners of the Company.

For further information:

Media Relations : Janus Siahaan (6221) 524 9000

Investor Relations : Indra Ginting (6221) 524 9002

Or: www.pt-inco.co.id

COPYRIGHT © 2008 - ANTARANEWS