Impairment Charges
In its first quarter 2013 report, Barrick indicated that it may need to reassess the long-term gold and silver price assumptions used in its most recent annual impairment test should metal prices remain at lower levels for an extended period of time.
As a result of recent and continued significant declines in gold and silver prices, and the delay in first gold production, Barrick is conducting impairment testing. Preliminary analysis indicates an after-tax asset impairment charge in the range of approximately US$4.5-US$5.5 billion in the second quarter for the Pascua-Lama project. This is a preliminary estimate range and the impairment testing work is ongoing, including with respect to various underlying assumptions related to items such as long-term metal prices, capital costs, and the construction schedule re-sequencing work for the project. The company will complete a final impairment assessment by its second quarter 2013 results release.
In light of the lower metal price environment, Barrick is also reviewing its other assets, including goodwill, for possible impairment charges in the second quarter, which, although dependent on various analyses and assumptions which have not been finalized, are likely to be significant.
Source: Form 6-K 5fth of day July 2013
